Gift Guide #4 ~ Kate Spade for All!

I am pretty sure if I only received presents from one store this year, Kate Spade would be the place for me this year.  Every single item I am head over heels in love with!  And if you follow Kate Spade on Twitter or Instagram you would see all the fabulous happiness this company spreads to all around!

If you are still stumped on what to get that special lady or bestie in your life, look no further than below!

all wrapped up cards/live colorfully borough coasters/bellevax fingerless gloves/cascade bib necklace

putting on the ritz earrings/this is the year bracelet/cheers necklace/pavé surround large stud earrings

sparkle summit brynn/charm shoe/sparkler gia/gold playing cards (* pretty please santa)

Any of the goods above is sure to make your loved one overjoyed!

Desperately Seeking Sully ~ Orange Crush

As I look at the window and am greeted with fog, it has suddenly dawned on me that fall has arrived and with fall comes new scents, flavors and a color palette.  And since we are in the month of October (and I did just return from Amsterdam where the color of the country is orange) I decided I should really try to incorporate the color that I despise so much into my wardrobe. 

(click to enlarge)

clutch, watch, bangle, ray-bans, earrings, iphone cover, gloves

I think the easiest way to incorporate orange for me would be in accessories.  Accessories allow you the luxury of being bold and bright without being too trendy or over the top.  I am loving all these varieties of orange goodies but am most definitely favoring the iPhone cover, as I am about to make the switch from blackberry to iPhone.  It's a little bit edgy, fun, punk and perfect to set me apart from other iPhone users. 

(click to enlarge)

sweater, blouse, ruffle top, pumps, dress, scarf

While the easy and safe route would be accessories, I would like to own one orange staple item.  However my fair skin and light hair are not complimented by orange.  So the trick is to find the right orange for you!  For me, I veer towards the coral and the red-orange options.  But if you are gonna go full out orange a scarf or shoes would be another great choice. 

This fall I am really going to try face my fear of looking like a pumpkin and try out this orange trend.  With options like the ones above I am pretty sure I can't go wrong!  What are your thoughts on orange? 

Gung-ho or steer clear? 

Summer Essentials Series is Back!

I am so excited to bring back the Summer Essentials Series for a third year!  I love to share my favorite summer must haves and also adore all the bloggers who share their selections every year. 

And here to kick it all off are my summer essentials!

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

Exfoliator.  Summer time means lots of fun in the sun which means lots of sunblock, lotion and products to protect my fair skin.  All these products add up to dull skin that needs to be sloughed away to maintain that summer glow and a good exfoliator is just what the doctor ordered.  My all time fave exfoliator is Flowers Organic Detoxifying Cranberry Vanilla Body Scrub (currently sold out) which I purchase from Chocolate Sun whenever I get a spray tan.  I recently ran out and stopped by Sephora to find the Bliss Blood Orange+White Pepper Sugar Scrub.  The scent is incredible and instead of that nasty oil film that many scrubs leave behind, Bliss promises a finer, gritter product that foams and leaves no film behind.  Exactly what this girl is looking for in an exfoliator. 

*What are you craving for summer 2011?*

The perfect wedge sandal.  Ever since I eyed these Dolce Vita Jade Wedge Sandal all I have wanted was to find a cheaper version for summertime.  Alas no luck and I am 99% sure that my willpower is wearing off and these $178 wedges are coming home with me very, very soon.  The color is perfect, the height amazing and the way they manage to make my short stumpy legs look long and lean is reason enough.  Seriously these may just be the perfect wedge.

*What is your essential summer song for 2011?*

Jane Says.  Yes I realize the lyrics are not the most uplifting but there is something about the steel drums and acoustic guitar that is super summery to me.  I have loved Jane's Addiction since my 8th grade boyfriend Adam made me mixed tape of all their songs. 

I am off to Seattle tomorrow for a week and will be sharing all the fabulous fellow bloggers summer essentials for the next week or so.  Be sure to check back tomorrow for Stephanie and Karrie of Covet Living's list!

Forever Frugal Friday ~ Easter Style Under $50

Ditsy Floral Ruffle Dress, Open Side Suedette Heels, Haute Pink Nail Polish, Pressed & Faux Ivory Bangles

In case you are still trying to throw together a sweet little outfit for Easter or just a cute look for brunch with friends, all of the items above will cost you a grand total of $50.20!  They are all easily interchangeable with other items you already own and are perfectly flirty and sweet and just scream spring! 

Forever Frugal Friday

skirt, tank, sunglasses, sandals

I have been reading (and seeing) how popular chambray is this season and until I saw this skirt I was just sort of meh on the trend.  However, with 84 degree weather expected for tomorrow and a possible pub crawl through Venice, I thinking chambray is just perfect for the upcoming summer months. 

What are your thoughts - yay or nay to chambray?

Forever Frugal Friday {Saturday Edition}

This past week my girlfriends and I have been discussing boat shoes and how cute we think they are.  While I love the idea of them, I am not sure if I think they are necessarily for me.  However if I were to get a pair I would most likely snag these goldies. 

Last time I went sailing the captain laughed at me for wearing my gold TOM's and commented that they were not seaworthy.  However, these little puppies are most definitely seaworthy and stylish.  

AHOY!

Flashing Brights

According to the calendar, spring sprung on Sunday...

According to my window, spring has yet to arrive in L.A.

The wind, rain and grey, leaves me craving anything and everything bright and sunny!

(click picture to enlarge)

1st Row: Scarf, Candle, Shimmer Tee, Pack Away Bag

2nd Row: Dress, Clutch, Books, Pumps

3rd Row: Bowls, Wedges, Sweater, Trench Motorcycle Jacket

4th Row: Undies, Lip Gloss, Thongs , Nail Polish

Has spring sprung at your location yet?  What do you have your eye one this spring?

Scenes from the Weekend

Enjoyed a Grilled Three Cheese Sandwich and Tomato Basil Soup from Westside Tavern Los Angeles before seeing The King's Speech - which was outstanding!

Braved the weather and hit the open seas!  For the most part the weather cooperated and the beers and company made it all the merrier.  Plus adding a little extra sparkle to the sea never hurts either :)

It was a pretty chill weekend, I took it easy in order to prep for the busy work week ahead and birthday festivities! 

Gift Guide #2 ~ Give the Gift of Gap & A Giveaway!

Having a hard time finding a present for your brother, niece, co-worker, girlfriend, or self?  I'm pretty sure if you head over to the Gap you will find something for all of the above.  They always have a great selection, affordable prices and incredible savings.  Below are some items I have on my Gap wish list...

Yes I am obsessed with sparkles.  This skirt is totally affordable for under $50 and I can't imagine any girl who wouldn't love to shine in this baby come NYE. 

Perfect for that secret Santa gift, this Glitter Wallet will keep your favorite ladies receipts and cards organized but she will look oh so stylish doing so. 

Since I was a wee little gal I have been obsessed with pink, and add a little sparkle and you pretty much can't go wrong in my eyes.  Perfect for your mom or sister, this Sequin Wrap Cardi adds a little glamour to whatever she may choose to wear.  In person it is oh so cozy and oh so pretty.

Currently on hold at the Gap in the Grove, these Black Wash Stirrup Legging Jeans are the perfect pant for the holidays as well as boots.  Best part for me is that they are available in three different lengths since no two gals are made the same.  The look of a jean with the feel of leggings, what a wonderful holiday treat. 

If you know of a gal with poor circulation in her feet like me, these Faux Fur Slipper Booties are just what the doctor ordered.  I am seriously contemplating buying these for myself as my feet are always SO cold at my parents house during the holidays.  Plus I love the little pom-poms on the side.  Cute and fun and perfect for snuggling by a fire.

'Tis the season to give back and by purchasing this FEED USA Canvas Tote  you aren't only being green, but you are also donating $5 towards food education in schools and America.  Perfect for the gal who always loves to give. 

Last but not least, a wicked IKAT Scarf is sure to please just about any lady in your life - perhaps even a design friend who you are just stumped about what to buy.  The colors and finish on this scarf are quality and will go with just about anything. 

And guess what my lovely readers....the peeps over at Brand About Town  and the Gap have graciously donated a pair of jeans to one lucky YBB reader. 

• All you have to do is pop over to the Gap, pick out the two items you are wishing for this holiday season.
• Leave a comment here at YBB sharing your wish lish items.  (Be sure to leave an email address that you can be contacted at should you win)
• I will select a random winner on Monday, December 20th at 4:00 PM PST. 
• This giveaway is open to US Residents only. 

Happy Wish List Shopping and Good Luck!

Desperately Seeking Sully ~ Alexander McQueen Skulls

I would like to pretty please with sugar on top own all one of these spectacularly spooky skulls courtesy of Alexander McQueen. 

This Leather Skull Bracelet is straight up Glamskull (yep, made that up)

 This Small Enamel Skull Bracelet is easily festive for work,without being too frightful.

You know in horror movies how the killer always has some trinket that's creepy and often associated with skulls....why not scare them off with this flashy Swarovski Crystal-Embellished Skull Keyfob.  It's kind of really bad.

And of course the piece I have been dying to own for 3+ years now.  I have an extremely cheap knockoff from Marshalls that doesn't hold a candle to the original Cashmere-Blend Skull Print Scarf.  I want it so bad!  Especially since I saw this picture of Nicole Richie sporting it 2 ways.

{via}

And of course, since I am all about the shoes, I love these Python Skull Platform Pumps.  The skulls just add that perfect little 'tude.

All these skulls has me wanting to scream out "By the power of Grayskull" but perhaps I should substitute "Silverskull or Goldskull" instead?

Desperately Seeking Sully ~ Christian Siriano for Payless

This past Sunday while watching the Red Carpet coverage on E!, they featured a little clip on one of my favorite Project Runway alums Christian Siriano.  The clip was all about his affordable shoe and accessory line at Payless Shoes.  Well I had to check out the collection myself and let me just say that his goods do not disappoint. 

I absolutely, positively must own these Parisienne Exotic Platform Pumps.  My black work heels are about ready to keel over and die (just noticed a large chunk of leather missing off the back - how did that happen?) and I am looking for a new affordable pair and these puppies seem to fit the bill. 

Last year these Jimmy Choo boots were all the rage.  Unfortunately they were so not in my price range.  Well wouldn't you just know that Mr. Siriano's Storm Rain Boots are the perfect alternative?  I really would love to own these guys for Christmas in Seattle and walking Waldo this fall. 

Okay, so I am pretty much obsessed with his use of "snakeskin" for his shoes and accessories but I really am loving this Mena Small Clutch as well.  It looks very luxurious and really transitions into fall and will the perfect accessory for any outfit. 

Mr. Siriano did Payless proud with this collection, which no doubt is sure to sell out.  Saving money and looking fabulous has never been so fierce.

Don't forget to enter the Shabby Apple San Gabriel Dress Giveaway!  You have until Thursday afternoon to enter! 

Desperately Seeking Sully ~ Glitter in the Air

The sun in LA has been a little shy this summer, and by a little I actually mean A LOT shy.  I have been craving nothing more than some warm sun on my shoulders and sparkly waters to gaze out at from my window at work.  Since these things don't seem to be happening anytime soon, I am forced to enjoy sparkle and shine from anything and everything covered in glitter!

I am pretty sure that this Anya Hindmarch Valorie Glitter Clutch would give me all the sparkle and shine I need to get out of my funk.  I am thinking this little baby would look soooo cute with just jeans, a deep V-Neck and some very high stilettos. 

Anya again nails it with this Marano Glitter Clutch.  I pretty much need it, now....stat.

This Deborah Lippman Collection, ‘ All That Jazz’ Color Trio Polish is a little more up my alley price wise and allows quite the range of glittery goodness at your fingertips. 

It's as if Rescue Beauty Lounge entered into my brain and extracted my motto to name this gold sparkly goddess of a polish,  "Look Rich Be Cheap".  I have been seeing more and more gold nails lately and I am really loving the look.  I even complimented a gal at Drybar on Saturday on her gold glittery toes.  I think it is about time I commit and just buy a bottle. 

Now personally, I don't think I could ever seriously sport these Steve Madden heels but I could definitely see Miss Snooki partying on the Jersey Shore in them.  Only to head back home and throw on those fugly slippers of hers.

I myself would like to paint my toes gold and slip them on into this glamorous Kate Spade Charm Glitter Bow Slingbacks.  I mean they are heels, with glitter, a bow and pink accents.  Could they be any more perfect?  I think not. 

My thoughts of glitter also traveled into my musical selections.  Pink's Funhouse album is one that I can listen to from start to finish and then again right after on my IPod.  The album is full of "Go Girl" anthems and then some sweet ballads.  Perhaps my favorite on the album (although I still really love So What (Explicit)) would have to be Glitter In The Air.  Her voice is incredible in it, the words beautiful and the piano gets me every time.  Be sure to download her entire album or at least this song.  It is truly gorgeous. 

I think we should all take a moment and throw some glitter in the air like we did as kids and celebrate that it is almost the weekend!

(can't remember where I found this one)

Forever Frugal Friday ~ 4th of July Edition

1) Dress 2)Fedora 3)Sandals

I am still planning out my perfect fourth of July outfit, and I am imagining something a little like this.  I usually opt for bright colors, but something about this simple dress with the pop of red and blue makes me think of fireworks and the trim at the bottom is perfect.  I need a fedora to keep my hair in check whilst riding my bike, and sandals that stay strapped to my feet are essential. 

What will you be wearing this fourth?

Forever Frugal Friday

I have been on the hunt for a new floral dress for the summer ahead and this this Ruffle Dress fits the bill.  I love the colors, the fit and best of all it has pockets and is under $20!  I am thinking I should pair it with these sandals, and this jacket for a perfect Memorial Weekend BBQ.  You could even belt it, throw on these heels, and this blazer for a night out on the town.  Perfect summer piece to add to your closet!

Forever Frugal Friday ~ Replicate

(click to enlarge)

1) Basic Textured Tunic, 2) Ivanna Braided Heels, 3) Vintage Cutoff Shorts, 4) Imaginaire Studded Tote, F4496 Sunglasses

I may be alone here, but I have always been a Kristin Cavallari fan.  I always liked her better than LC on Laguna Beach and started watching The Hills once she took over for LC.  She's a bitch and she's got her issues for sure, but I love how blunt she is, love her style and think she plays the "bitch" role just right. 

When I saw this picture, I just fell in love with the look (and her gorgeous hair) and wanted to recreate the look for less.  Sadly I couldn't find a gray long sleeved top like hers but I think the navy will do just fine.  And the studded tote is a little different but still functional and funky.  Chances are you already have a lot of these pieces in your closet and may only need one or two items to achieve this look. 

Perfect for a Saturday stroll to your local cafe, or that backyard BBQ party.  Kristin nailed summer cool here. 

Forever Frugal Friday

Can I just mention how excited I am that Spring arrives tomorrow? I am loving that daylight savings is in effect, walking Waldo at night is even more enjoyable now! As I walk I take in all the sights and smells, including the little baby ducklings and the first smells of BBQ in the evening. It is all just so dreamy and perfect...kind of like this Blissful Woven Top from Forever.

It is just what I need to ease into spring. Although I would love to head right into tank tops and sundresses, once the sun goes down, the evening are a little on the chillier side.

I would love to add this top to my wardrobe and pair it with these cute 'Sammy' Roll Hem Stretch Denim shorts from Joe's Jeans.



And to add a little glitz but comfort at the same time, I would sport my fun Gold Glitter TOMS that I received this year as a birthday present (and you know that TOMS donates a pair of shoes to a child in need every time you purchase a pair).

Spring-a-ling-a-ling is here! Woo-hoo!

Forever Frugal Friday

I have had my eye on these Dolce Vita Trinity Studded Pumps for quite some time but just couldn't justify the $210 purchase.

I can however justify a $25.80 purchase...

I think I can look past the fact that they are velvet...because these Studded Pumps are a great knock off. However, I might need to see these puppies in person before any commitment is made.

A trip to Forever is definitely in the cards for me this weekend, and I am hoping to come back with some great finds like Miss Amber did (loving that grey and white striped skirt)!

Hip, Hot, Sequins

{via}

Ever since I saw this twitter pic of Katy Perry's sequin-licious nails I have been wanting to replicate the look badly. However, I am pretty sure I would only feel comfortable rocking this look for a holiday party or for one night only!

If I do find an occasion to rock this manicure, I think I'd be silly not to sport the heels below along with it.

I love the combo of the gold heel and silver sequins to give these pumps a little more pizazz. However, I am not so sure that I would get as much use from silver, but I KNOW I would get plenty of use out of the goldies!

Which are immediately added to my Christmas wish list. Enzo Angiolini has outdone themselves with their 'Merryann' Pump. My name may not be Ann but I will be very merry to own these goldies this holiday season.

In case you have never worn or owned a pair of Enzo's, take it from this girl who owns three pairs. Enzo's are totally dressy shoes that are also, wait for it.....COMFORTABLE!

So whether you're sporting them on your nails, in your hair or on your feet, get your SEQUIN on!