Forever Frugal Friday

Do yourself a favor and invest in this Bold Shoulder Striped Blazer immediately!  Last February I purchased an almost identical blazer (in navy blue) from H & M and it was easily one of the best purchases I have made as I am constantly complimented on every time I wear it.  The blazer is the perfect piece to add to almost any outfit and I just know you will love it as much as I love mine! 

Forever Frugal Friday

I have this weird obsession with cute printed thermals.  They remind me of long johns and bundling up and I just love the look.  This Mixed Patterned Thermal is absolutely coming home with me to Seattle this holiday season.  Pure perfection.  And for under $10 you have got to be kidding me! 

Gift Guide #3 ~ Give the Gift of Gap {GIVEAWAY}

Being the generous people we all are, every so often it is nice to treat yourself to a little holiday cheer!  And the nice folks over at Brand About Town and The Gap are helping make that possible with a free pair of Gap jeans! 

To enter leave a comment below with the item(s) you want most on your Gap Wishlist.  You will earn one entry for leaving a comment below (please include your email address) and a second entry for tweeting (@lyndsylee) about this giveaway (please be sure to leave a second comment that you tweeted for your extra entry).  The contest will close at 11:59 PM PST on December 18th!  Good Luck!

I have become a true believer in Gap jeans and can be found wearing mine every weekend!  In addition to their fantastic jeans, I basically want just about everything in the store every season.  My Gap Wishlist is below and I am hoping a certain Santa is taking note and making purchases...

faux fur coat - so soft and gorgeous!

1969 ponte five-pocket leggings - most comfortable pants ever!!

metallic blouse - love the leathery look

cozy squirrel socks - shout out to my AGD secret squirrels!

gFast capris - cause i could use some more workout pants for cw!

quilted knit bomber jacket - it makes me feel warm and cozy just looking at it!

heart print henley T - um...could this be any cuter?  i think not!

Good Luck Everyone!!

Gift Guide #2 ~ For the Foodies

Food related gifts are the perfect present for just about anyone!  Co-workers, friends, family, you name it - everyone needs a little something for the kitchen.  And if that person is not one that works well in a kitchen, then I am sure they would love to eat any of the sweet treats!  The gifts below are sure to strike a chord with someone special in your life!

willowherb rolling pin/kitchen magic whisk/set of 3 spatulas/baking gift set

refresher deluxe gift basket/three months of coffee/hario buono V60 drip kettle

kuhn rikon classic paring knife set/molcajete/dean & deluca salt essentials collection

chocolate swirl marshmallows/hot chocolate trio

dark chocolate peanut butter bites w/ sea salt/dark chocolate jalapeño meltaways/peppermint spoons

s'more basket

Forever Frugal Friday ~ Robes for Everyone

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A bathrobe is a pretty standard holiday present and let's be honest, we all are usually wearing a robe that could use some replacing.  Why not treat yourself or your bestie to a cozy, lovely robe she can feel confident wearing to the door should an unexpected visitor stop by?  Best part about these robes...they are all under $20!!  Go ahead and check off a few of your favorite ladies from your holiday shopping list with one quick trip to Forever! 

Gift Guide #1 ~ Pretty Polished

Happy 1st of December!  You now officially have 24 shopping days left to get gifts for those special to your heart (including yourself!). 

Today's gift guide is for the gal in your life who likes to wear her flare on her fingertips.  Nail polish is the perfect gift for any one if your life.  You choose the price range and the color selection is endless.  It's a perfect stocking stuffer, little gift for your favorite gal at the office or little sister. 

Oh Deborah you always have me crushing hard on your polishes!  for that rockstar best friend of yours, why not treat her to the Get This Party Started set?  Or for your sweet little snow angel and Led Zeppelin fan, a little Stairway To Heaven which looks like little bits of snowflakes in a jar.  Love!

A little sweeter but still smooth as butter is this Holiday Glitter Trio.  All the goodness of butter with none of the calories...yes please!

Glitter?  Check.  Sparkles?  Check.  All out flashy fantastic - yep and the names are just my favorite!

Don't Be Eggnogious, Getting' Miss Piggy With It, Meteor Shower 

For your favorite gold digger who likes to play it cool, Gold Flash should do.

I am loving this pair together, Shine of the Times and Bobbing for Baubles.  Essie's whole holiday collection is straight up glamorous and rich.

The perfect red, a splash of white a tinge of black and a gloss of gold, could we NARS have nailed it any better with this Kabuki Mini Nail Polish Coffret?  You could buy the set and split it amongst your different girlfriends - sexy, innocent, bold and dazzling. 

Any of these polishes as gifts are sure to leave you perfectly polished in their books!

Forever Frugal Friday

Next Monday, I depart for Denver to spend Thanksgiving with B and his family.  I was super excited until I realized I didn't have any appropriate pajamas.  Old boxer shorts, skuzzy sweats and holey washed too many times t-shirts sure, but legit cute, come down to breakfast, be seen in public pajamas, no such luck.  Thus began my quest for cute pajamas. 

Surprisingly the options available were slim to none (unless I wanted $50 pj pants or ultra thin see through ones) and I was freaking out a bit, until my sweet roomie Aves came to my rescue with these cuties!  But I figured two pairs of pj bottoms is never a bad thing and wouldn't you just know that Forever has these cute Jumbo Dot Flannel PJ Bottoms which I just adore, and for under $11! 

What is your favorite thing to sleep in (besides your birthday suit)?  Any great must have pj's that I should check out?  Also do you think wearing pj's to breakfast with your boyfriends parents is ok?!

Headgear to help your Rearview

{via}

I like to pretend that I look as lovely and perfect as this lady above on the treadmill at Circuit Works whenever I workout.  However, last night when I wasn't paying attention and hopped on the treadmill I ended up looking more like this...

No joke, totally ate sh*t last night on the treadmill in front of (luckily) only 10 people.  Just because I wasn't paying attention.  Be careful people, the treadmill really will kick your a**!

Back to the point of this post...

Whenever I work out, I need my hair COMPLETELY off my face/neck.  These people at gyms who work out with their hair down I will never understand.  Maybe it's because I sweat a lot and end up looking a tomato, but every strand of my hair needs to be tightly tied, pined and whatever else so that it is not in my face. 

I have baby fine hair that is slippery as all get out and requires a ton of hairspray to hold curl and a special headband to keep it locked in for my workouts.  And so I bring you to my favorite headband and a review of other headbands that actually work, and are guaranteed to keep you looking somewhat cute and put together. 

Thank you Miss Kord for being a fabulous friend and picking up this Braided Headband from lululemon for me.  This sucker is TIGHT!  It holds my hair in without any fidgeting and is the real deal folks.  In fact you shouldn't purchase any other headbands until you buy this one.  It really is a workout changer my friends. 

I picked up my own lululemon Slipless-Headband and like it ok.  It works pretty well and averages 1 or 2 pushes or secures during my workout.  It is a little wider than I prefer but leaves little to no indent in my hair so I am able to run around town without headband crimp.  It's alright as an alternative but I don't think I will purchase again. 

The Lucy Power Double Strap Headband is my 2nd favorite after the lululemon braided goddess.  The one has little grippers that stick to your hair and it is available in a variety of colors and the double band helps keep my hair in tact.  I generally only have to adjust once during the workout with this guy and I could see purchasing a few more in different colors. 

The first headband I bought for working out was the American Apparel Shiny Headband.  This one doesn't stay in that well at all, but it is by far the cutest of the bunch.  I use this one when I absolutely have no other headbands available and it requires the extra help of bobby pins to keep it in place.  A good option is to use this pretty headband to cover the indent of the braided headband after your workout!

Do you have any headbands that you think are the bees knees and stay put after a hard workout?  I would love to hear your suggestions! 

Forever Frugal Friday ~ Trendy Tights!

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Today was the first day of the season that I pulled out a pair of my trusty polka dot black tights, and I have to say I am quite happy with the results and received numerous compliments at work (yay!). 

Tangent much...my whole point was that every lady should have at least 2 or 3 pairs of tights for those cold days that have already arrived or are coming soon to a city near you.  I love the playfulness tights add to any outfit and it reminds me of my youth and love for tights as a young girl. 

I love the variety of styles out there and there is just about something for every girl, whether you like to play it safe with solids, bright, or trendy with those leopard lace tights.  Everyone can wear tights!  All of the tights above are under $15, so you won't feel guilty if you snag, poke a hole or rip them after a couple wears. 

And just because I mentioned it, and have never actually done an OOTD, here you go!

(close up so you can see the tights)

(please excuse my terrible background)

Forever Frugal Friday

With the holidays just around the corner, it's time to liven up your closest and add a few pieces that will jazz up wherever your headed. 

I have been crushing hard on all of the great sequins showing up in my local department stores in anticipation of the holidays.  Those sequins can be tricky little mother f'ers...they have to look just right or you'll end up looking like a cheap hooker and we don't want that now do we? 

Classy sequins is where it's at and this Allover Sequin Blazer is just that.  I really want to add this piece to my closet and pair it with some black skinnies and a striped top.  I am even thinking I could find a way to mix it into my office attire.  Simple, classic and a perfect way to dazzle wherever you go. 

Drug Store Beauty Booty

St. Ives Coconut Milk & Orchid Extract Lotion

I have a ton of those super scented lotions that I don't always feel really moisturize as much as they scent-tize and realized I needed a good legit lotion for everyday.  I originally bought this lotion to keep over at B's but liked it so much I took it back and have it chilling in my bathroom.  The scent is lovely and light and the lotion leaves your skin so soft!  And at under $5 it is such a steal! 

Wet n Wild - Party of Five Glitters

This nail polish is straight up legit, let me count the ways why I love it so.  Last year I bought my nail polish obsessed roomie Debroah Lippmann's "Happy Birthday"  glitter polish and fell in love.  Imagine my delight when browsing Walgreens to find this $1.99 polish that is a great cheap version of the luxe brand, but also named after one of my fave shows growing up. 

Suave - Dry Spray Shampoo

While I still love my Psssssst... I am always game to try the latest and cheapest dry shampoos out there.  I found this Suave Dry Shampoo and was sure I would be disappointed, because you know...it's Suave. 

Turns out Suave really has redone not only their packaging but also their product quality.  This dry shampoo is AWESOME and smells so good!  It's rings up just under $4 and not only sprays clear but evenly, which I find is very key for a good dry shampoo. 

Lesson learned, don't judge a dry shampoo by it's cover.

Sonia Kashuk - Radiant Tinted Moisturizer

I happened to stop into Target to pick up some laundry soap, groceries and toilet paper.  I can out minus $130 and a tube of Sonia's tinted moisturizer.  I have desperately been searching for a tinted moisturizer that holds a candle against Laura Mercier's tinted moisturizer and while I still haven't quite found one, I have found some great, close alternatives including this one. 

A little goes a long way, let me just warn you.  The coverage is great and while the color I selected is a little lighter than I would have preferred it, blends fantastically and leaves my skin fresh and youthful (at least I like to think it does).  This is my first Sonia Kashuk beauty purchase and am quite pleased with it so far and excited to try some more of her goods. 

Aquafresh Extreme Clean Toothpaste

Hands down my favorite toothpaste ever.  I recently switched it up and have immediately regretted my decision.  I have been using this toothpaste since college and love how fresh and clean it leaves my mouth.  Also it should be noted (knock on wood) that I haven't had any cavities in 6+ years and I think it must have something to do with the toothpaste.  Back in the day it used to be this kind of awful orange tasting paste, but they have since added whitening features as well as two flavors of mint. 

If you are hating your toothpaste I really, really love this one and recommend it to everyone!

Any great drug store beauty products you can't leave home without?  I would love to hear your favorite affordable beauty products!

Forever Frugal Friday

Forever Frugal Friday's have been on hiatus for awhile, but I am excited to share today's fabulous find!

I love a good black dress and this Heart Print Dress would be perfect for the upcoming holidays or a girls night out.  It is sweet with the little hearts and also a little naughty with the sheerness at the top and keyhole button back.  The dress is part of the Rory Beca collection currently at Forever.  There are some great pieces in the collection and while I am still looking forward to Thanksgiving and in no rush to head into Christmas, I will say I am excited for all the holiday collections that are beginning to emerge.  

Regardless of the upcoming holidays, this dress is sure to be in style anytime of the year. 

Summer Essentials Series ~ The Look 4 Less

Today's summer essentials comes from the uber talented Jen over at The Look 4 Less.  One of my fave blogs for a long, long time.  Jen has an incredible skill of finding any look you desire (whether you saw it in your JCrew catalog, on Rachel Bilson or some other fabulous celeb) and finding a damn near replica for a lot less.  I mean it is seriously crazy how she can literally find anything for less.  My only problem with her blog is I absolutely want to own EVERYTHING she posts and it may not be the best thing for my wallet...

Jen shares her summer picks below and let me just point out that she does not disappoint with her style and price points!

*What one item can you not be without this summer?*

Right now I'm loving cat eye sunglasses, like this great pair from Forever 21. They add a glamorous feel to my summer uniform of a tshirt and shorts/skirts.

*What are you craving for summer 2011?*

White Jeans. I haven't taken the plunge because I'm one of THOSE people, you know - the one that always ends up ordering spaghetti or BBQ and then manages to spill on my new white pants.

*What is your essential summer song for 2011?*

Party Rock Anthem by LMFAO - I always have to turn the radio up when I hear this song!

Thank you so much Jen for taking time out of finding all sorts of fashionable frugal frocks and sharing your summer faves!  I am desperate for a new pair of white jeans (mine may or may not be a little tight) and adore the LMFAO video, who knew they could dance so well?  Be sure to follow The Look 4 Less and be prepared at all the wondrous items you will be introduced to!

Tomorrow Linley from Dwelling & Telling will be sharing her summer essentials!

Forever Frugal Friday ~ Splurge vs. Steal

Ever since I first saw the T-Mobile commercial with that cute bright pink Marc for Marc Jacobs 'Jailbird Stripe Dress' I have been hunting for a cheaper version of my own.  Well wouldn't you just know that Forever's Striped Dress w/ Belt is a great alternative at a fantastic price.  Don't worry, you won't end up jailed for this fantastic steal!

Recent Purchases ~ Apothica.com

The generous people over at Apothica provided me with $100 to spend on anything over at their site.  Talk about exciting stuff!  As many of you know, I am a bit of a beauty product junky and Apothica offers so many products I adore and use on a daily basis at affordable rates and free shipping on orders over $49! 

I immediately added the Ole Henriksen Truth Serum Collagen Booster to my basket as I had been eyeing it for over a year now.

The Truth Serum Collagen Booster smells absolutely delightful and provides a nice little pick me up to my morning routine.  The energizing tangerine scent instantly wakes up my sleepy face and gives a little perk to my drab skin.  It also creates a nice barrier between my face and LA's toxic air pollution.  My only regret with purchasing the truth serum is that I didn't buy the Three Little Wonders Box Set (as seen above) which I believe would have provided more dramatic results. 

In any case, Ole Henriksen carries a variety of beauty products I am dying to try including this African Red Tea Glow To Go.

My next purchase was the Stila Cosmetics Stay All Day Liquid Eye Liner in Carbon Black.

I love the look of liquid eyeliner so much and I have concluded that my favorite type of liquid liner are "pen" style.  They glide on so much easier and create the perfect liquid line.  The Stay All Day Liquid Eye Liner is a wonderful beauty product.  It stays on all day as promised and lasts a really long time.  I used it at least 3-4 times a week and purchased it back in February and only just ran out of it this weekend.  For $20 you get a great quality product that lasts a long time.  FANTASTIC!

The third purchase was a little more difficult to select as I wanted so many things.  I however decided to share the wealth and purchase the Voluspa 3 Wick in Decorative Tin French Bourbon Vanille candle for B.

B had just moved into his new place and it needed a little accent that not only smelled "manly" but also matched his dark wood decor.  I am already a devoted fan of Voluspa candles and wanted to introduce B to my fave candle distributor.  While I enjoy almost every single scent they offer, I needed to find one for B that wasn't overly perfumey or in an ultra girly casing.  Check and Check. 

I have to say that I was over the moon for all my purchases from Apothica.  They shipped my items in a timely matter, and threw in some free samples to try.  A nice added touch was that a consulting rep from the site sent me an email to follow up on my purchases and product satisfaction.  Never had any of my other beauty sales rep follow up on an order, love their customer appreciation!

Since I have exhausted my last order officially, I have begun hunting for my next beauty purchases...currently in the lead are:

Deborah Lippmann Nail Lacquer in Glitter In The Air 

perfectly wispy - reminds me of cotton candy at the fair

Deborah Lippmann Nail Lacquer in Across the Universe

loving the blue and green glitter combo - gets me excited for Seahawk football (fingers crossed)

Eminence Blueberry Soy Night Recovery Cream

I am still on the hunt for a good night cream and I am completely sold by the fact that the words "blueberry" and "recovery" are in the same product title.  I have read all the wonderful benefits of eating blueberries and figure, it must be good to place directly on your face as well, right?  Added bonus, the products is organic. 

I am pretty sure my shopping cart will be full to the brim once I finish looking at the website.  I highly recommend trying Apothica for your next beauty purchases, they have a great return policy as well and guarantee the lowest price. 

Get shopping my beauties and be sure to share what you buy or love!

Forever Frugal Friday ~ Steal vs. Splurge

I've said it before and I'll say it again, I am not generally a "watch person".  However whenever I see my roomie sporting her Michael Kors 'Runway' Rose Gold watch or my girl Christy sporting this stunner I am ever so tempted to become a "watch person" (I have my eye on this one specifically) and just spend the money. 

However, today I saw this awesome Timeless Fashion watch at Forever and am considering buying it to test out if I can really become a "watch person".  At under $20, it is the perfect "gateway watch". 

Anyone else not a "watch person"?  And those who are sporting these gorgeous bold watches, do you use them for the functionality of a watch or more as an accessory (like a bangle)?