Missoni for Target - September 13, 2011

I'm always excited when I hear about a new designer collaboration with Target even though some of their recent collections have been a miss for me. Still, I can't wait to see what Missoni has to offer, especially in children's clothing and home decor. I'm already imagining the Little Peanut running around in colorful zigzags.

As for women's clothing, I wasn't too excited by the sneak preview of the items used to shoot the Target ad. Too much brown maybe? I can't put my finger on it. At any rate, the collection hits stores on September 13, 2011.

{image via zimbio}

What do you think of Missoni for Target?

My Kind of Bar

I recently came across a website called Bauble Bar (referral link here) and was immediately drawn to the gorgeous and affordable jewelry on the site. The selection is huge and obviously well-liked as many pieces are already waitlisted. I guess I may be a little late to the bar because their jewelry has been featured in many magazines and worn by celebrities. I was immediately smitten with these pieces:

Rose Dome Ring

Inverted Dome Ring

Cushion Peach Drops

Last time I looked, a single piece cost anywhere from an inexpensive $18 to a maximum of $250. I also really like that they give you free shipping and free returns on orders over $30 (and no sales tax unless you're in New York) so you can try out the jewelry commitment free. I also received a code for $10 off my first order when I signed up. I like so many items - I can't decide. 

Note: I found pieces here that remind me of Amrita Singh earrings, Chan Luu wrap bracelets, and Rebecca Minkoff pyramid stud bracelets, but for way way less too.

What would you buy from the Bauble Bar?

Weeview: See Kai Run

A couple of weeks ago, I ordered 2 pairs of cute See Kai Run sandals from zulily (see deal post here).

Aesthetically, the sandals were adorable. The leather was soft and the soles were flexible but sturdy. I liked the round rubber dots on the bottom of the shoe, which I imagine would provide good traction for a new walker on a slippery surface.

One thing I hadn't considered before buying these shoes was toe cleavage. I adore baby feet, and I think most people do, but it was not a look I had expected. If this is an issue for you, I'd recommend going with the mary janes (see e.g., here, here, and here) instead.

Deal: See Kai Run

Up until recently, the little peanut has gone around town unshod. But now she's starting to take her first steps (yay!), so I've been obsessed with finding her cute, comfortable, and affordable shoes. Barefoot is still best at this stage, but her walking practice time is severely limited when we go out without the proper footwear.

Luckily, Zulily (click here for referral link) has a 40% sale on See Kai Run shoes and I jumped at the opportunity. Their shoes are so cute. Plus, it's important for the shoes to be soft and flexible - mimicking bare feet. These shoes also have suede bottoms with rubber grips to minimize slipping. And they've been awarded the American Podiatric Medical Association's Seal of Acceptance for promoting healthy foot development. I'm sold. I picked up these 2 pairs of summer sandals for the little peanut. 

Pink Ruffle Tiana Sandal

White Floral Mira Sandal

They ran out of the little peanut's size in these mary janes, but how cute are they?

Pink Evania Mary Jane

White Floral Yuli Mary Jane

Deals List

Every day I receive many e-mails notifying me of special deals on the web. I'm sure most of you out there have already signed up. But in case you haven't, I'd like to share with you the deal sites that I frequent. I often find that no matter how full of deals my inbox contains, I am always learning of new sites that make me want to shop.

6pm
Bauble Bar
bloomspot
Editors' Closet
Gilt
Groupon
HauteLook
ideeli
jewelmint
kgbdeals
Lifebooker
Living Social
Outnet
Ruelala
Sole Society
stylemint

And here are the baby+mommy specific deal sites:
babysteals
doodledeals
Gaggle of Chicks
Poppins Perks
plum district
Totsy
zulily

Plus 2 sites I go to get cash back on my online purchases:
ebates
Mr. Rebates

List last updated July 31, 2011.


Are there any deal sites that you recommend?

A Pox on Our House

I've been away for a little while due to a couple unfortunate incidents. My husband got shingles (can you say painful?). Then the little peanut got chicken pox. CHICKEN POX!! Kids don't even get chicken pox these days!! Poor little girl! Then, as soon as her scabs started to heal, the little peanut caught a nasty cold. All in all - not a good month for us. 

I am running on survival mode these days but I expect to be back shortly.

On a happy note, spring is here!!! :)

{Pink tulips on Park Avenue}

Deal: Make Me an eBay Addict!

Until recently, I never purchased anything off of eBay. But once I got started, it's truly been addicting! It also doesn't help that eBay just teamed up with GROUPON (referral link here) to provide an awesome deal - spend $7 to get a $15 giftcard toward any eBay purchase.

This deal is going on for the next 2 days and is limited to ONE per customer. I've already bought mine and know I'll be using it immediately. Enjoy!

LOFT Fitting Room Review: Spring Looks

Over the weekend, I stopped in Ann Taylor Loft and tried on some pretty spring looks. Nothing was on sale so I resisted and walked out empty handed. I definitely found a few items I'll be keeping an eye on.


First up is this lovely watercolors silk shell in XXSP. The fit of this top was pretty good. My only complaint would be that the arm holes were bordering on tight for me. But I've had that problem before in XXSP Loft tops so I may size up to XSP when it goes on sale. I really liked how the neckline is gathered giving the impression of ruffling without the full-on ruffle. This top would be perfect for an Easter brunch tucked into a white skirt! Gorgeous! Unfortunately, this top is not available online so I'll have to stick to my resolution of stalking the stores instead of shopping online ALL THE TIME.

Verdict: Wait for sale!

Next up is the Pleated Ruffle Button Down Top in XXSP. This one I didn't love because it was reminiscent of a clown collar or pirate shirt, albeit much much more subdued. The fabric was also quite sheer. And again, the arm holes were almost too tight on me.

Verdict: Pass

Finally, I tried on the Petite Woven Ruffle Neck Dress in 00P and really loved it! The ruffles had the perfect amount of frill and the skirt portion had tiny strands of sparkly thread. The hem hit right above my knee which is a perfect lady-like length. Also, I had no problems with the arm holes in 00P so this dress was also very comfortable. The top was not too sheer and I would fill it out a bit better with the proper undergarment. My brother-in-law's Marine OCS graduation is coming up and I'm thinking I could wear this for his big day. What do you think? Is this dress graduation appropriate?

Deal: Get Your Joe's Jeans While They're Haute!!

Previously, I reviewed my favorite pair of Joe's Jeans here in size 23, but nowhere could I find it again online in such a small size. Luckily, Hautelook (referral link here) is carrying the Provocateur Petite Fit Boot Cut Jean again in size 23 and for $79 and in a couple different washes this time as well!

Hautelook is also carrying 9 other fits (including skinny jeans) in size 23! This deal ends on Wednesday at 8:00 am Pacific.

Stylish Blogger Award

Not so long ago, Elle of Fast Food & Fast Fashion passed on the Stylish Blogger Award to me. I'm so flattered and so excited! Thanks Elle!

The rules:

1. Thank and link back to the person who awarded you this award

2. Share 7 things about yourself

3. Award 7 recently discovered bloggers

4. Contact these bloggers and tell them about the award

Here are 7 things about myself:

1. I am an organized hoarder - I've moved across the country and lived in many places since high school, but I still own 8 boxes of clothes, all neatly folded sorted, and properly labeled. And yes, the clothes still fit! Although it's probably time to purge those gigantic plaid shirts from my grungy punk rock phase! I need to purge.


2. I am a closet makeup addict - I normally wear little to no makeup but I love searching for the perfect products that make me look like I'm not wearing makeup. I currently own 3 dresser drawers of lipsticks, eyeshadows, blushes, foundations, powders, nail polishes, makeup brushes, and cosmetic bags. Last purchase was 10 Rock & Republic Eye Colours and the Urban Decay Naked Palette. I need to purge.


3. On my 7th birthday, I sat in a corner of my room holding my own baby picture and cried. When my mom found me, she asked me what was wrong and I replied, "I'm so old now. Life is going to get more complicated."


4. My current shoe size is size 7. Pre-pregnancy shoe size was 6.5!


5. When I love something, I obsess about it and wear/use it constantly. Like, every day. Until it breaks. And then I wear/use it some more.


6. I've only slept 4 hours at a stretch for the past 6 months.


7. I am currently on a no dairy, no caffeine, no alcohol, no preservatives, organic, antibiotic and hormone-free diet. Oh the things I do for the Little Peanut!

I hope you found that somewhat interesting! Now I'm passing the award onto the following lovely bloggers whose blogs I read frequently. Although they're not necessarily new, they are fabulous and definitely still new to me!

1. 9to5Chic (So tall so chic so sophisticated - me in another life perhaps!)

2. Extra Petite (Jean makes everything look good. Easy on the eyes. Hard on the wallet (but oh the deals she finds)!)

3. Living Foxy (She makes motherhood look downright sexy)
4. Really Petite (Annie is so inspiring, provides great reviews, and is just super super kind)
5. SewPetiteGal (Majorly talented and fashionable mom)
6. the (chloe) conspiracy (Cracks me up AND gives me eye candy AND the lowdown on sales)
7. The Petite Fitting Room (Reviews galore. 'Nuff said)
8. to brighten my day (Cee wears flats in most of her OOTDs. Love!)

Review: Old Navy Sliver-Wedge Boots

I've been following Cee's 30 for 30 at to brighten my day and was intrigued by the look and fit of these Old Navy boots on her (see them on her here). They were delightfully inexpensive, only about $35 on sale and with 2% cashback, and they looked stylish, versatile, and comfortable.

Old Navy Sliver-Wedge Boots in Camel

Normally, I wouldn't consider synthetic leather shoes, but I need to go no holds barred when it comes to finding boots that fit. For reference, I'm 5'3" and 95 pounds with shoe size 7 and calf circumference 13.5". 

The Old Navy boots have a shaft circumference of 15". Normally, this would be too big for me. But the reviews on the website were mixed as far as sizing so I thought I'd give it a whirl. Size 7 was sold out so I ordered a size 6.5, which surprisingly fit my foot well. Here are the boots on me:

Unfortunately, the boots did not fit my calves well at all. Even with socks and jeans tucked into them. Major bummer. They were really cute and looked more expensive than they were. I can see these fitting someone with slightly shapelier calves (but not recommended for anyone shorter as the boot shaft hits me right below the knee).

I know that boot season is nearly over (although I'm not convinced that this winter will EVER end), but knowing me, it will take from now until the Fall to find the right boots.

Love and Loss

Once I entered Chanel territory, I thought I had outgrown Coach. But last fall, my interest in Coach piqued again with the introduction of the Coach Hamptons Leather Carryall. I saw it in the perfect-for-fall dark brown color on Emily at cupcakesandcashmere and fell in love. But at $698 and measuring 16"(L)x12.5"(H)x6.5"(W) (I thought it might be a little too big next to my small frame), I had to pass. I was hoping it would go on sale or go to the outlet at some point but no such luck for a limited edition bag. The brown is All colors are sold out online now, but it's still available in raisin and black. Bummer.

Coach Hamptons Leather Carryall - $698

Then Emily debuted her Mulberry Oak Oversized Alexa Bag (15"x12"x6") and I thought, yes, this is gorgeous, slightly smaller, and so so similar!! But then I saw the price tag and kicked myself again for not buying the Coach bag when I had the chance. Don't you just hate it when you let something you love slip by?

Mulberry Oak Oversized Alexa Bag - $1250

So anyway, now I'm on the lookout again. I'm obsessed and will not rest until I find it. This is just a sad sad reminder that for all the times we make purchases that we regret later, the biggest regret will always be the purchases we failed to make!

It's a Sunshiny Day

I woke up today excited for the Ray-Ban sale at Ruelala (referral link here) because I've been looking to replace my old Ray-Ban aviator sunglasses in silver metal with gray gradient lenses with a pair in gold metal. I own so many pairs of sunglasses but these are my go-to pair. I've worn (and dropped) these old aviators to death. There's just something about the classic shape that fits almost every face and goes well with every outfit. 

Ray-Ban Metal Aviator Sunglasses - RB3025

Unfortunately, Ruelala didn't have the sunglasses* I was looking for, but after a little online searching, I found the exact pair I wanted at endless for $89.87 with free shipping plus 7.5% cash back from Ebates (referral link here)! I ordered immediately. These sunglasses are also available at Ray-Ban for $139. Yes, the EXACT same pair. 

What are your go-to sunglasses?

*Ruelala had the model I wanted for $69.60 plus $9.95 shipping. But only in matte fuchsia metal with purple accents and grey gradient lenses. And it sold out within 30 minutes! 

How-To: 90 Days of Outfits

Ever heard of the 30 for 30 challenge? Well, it's a closet remix challenge where you take 30 items from your closet and remix only those items into 30 different stylish outfits. This is quite a feat and kudos to all those creative ladies for taking the challenge! I'm certainly not quite up to it myself. But one day...when I grow another set of hands.

Until then, I thought it was very interesting indeed that Lucky magazine (March 2011 issue - I highly recommend picking this up) did a "how-to" using 26 items, costing less than $500 in its entirety, and styled them into 90 days of outfits!! Wowsa! Clearly $500 for 90 days of outfits (or ~$5/day) is super budget friendly. But you know what? I'd rather save my pennies for a rainy Burberry boot day. 

So instead, I broke down the article and applied their thinking to my existing overflowing (but I've still got nothing to wear) closet. Takeaway #1: You only need ONE dress and 

8 tops

2 pants, 2 skirts, 1 shorts

3 jackets 

3 shoes 

4 belts, 1 scarf, and 1 necklace.

Seriously? Seriously? What's all that other stuff doing in my closet? I am shamed. And ashamed.

Takeaway #2: Limit your color palette (sorry Kileen - the Color Brigade is for those with generous closets it seems!) The outfits in the article were limited to these colors:

black

gray

white

cream

brown

camel

safari green

red

denim

silver

turquoise

dark muted floral print (containing black)

I have all these colors!!! Don't you? I'm feeling encouraged, but still ashamed.

Takeaway #3: Take inspiration from the pros and fellow fashion bloggers! At last, this is what I've always wanted - the article provides 6 pages of fully styled outfit ideas with the exact pieces needed to create them. At long long last - inspiration for the lazy! And yes, that is also why I read fashion blogs. To be inspired out of my PJs and hard-earned cash!

Now here are the 26 items broken down by category.  

Tops:

1. Black tank top
2. Gray tank top
3. Floral tank
4. White long-sleeve cotton top
5. Red and white striped long-sleeve top
6. White button-down long-sleeve shirt
7. Cream-colored tunic
8. Camel short-sleeve sweater 

Bottoms:

Pants: 

1. Cream-colored cropped trousers
2. Skinny jeans

Skirts:

1. Light gray pencil skirt (matches the blazer)
2. Black pencil skirt

Shorts:

1. Black drapey shorts

Dress:

1. Sleeveless denim dress

Jackets:

1. Light gray blazer
2. Army green cotton jacket
3. Black leather biker jacket

Shoes:

1. Black and white striped sandals

2. Black suede pumps

3. White lace-up flats 

Belts:

1. Brown and cream woven leather belt

2. Black leather belt

3. Silver-colored leather belt

4. Black braided belt

Scarf:

1. Purple patterned scarf

Necklace:

1. Turquoise and silver bead necklace

Although I don't have these exact pieces, it'll be lots of fun to pull 26 similar things from my own closet and see if I can recreate some of the looks. You know, one day. After I do a 30 for 30. And climb Mt. Everest. 

How do you put together your outfits?

Best Jeans for Petites?

I came across this article in Lucky magazine about the "Best Jeans for Petites" and was surprised to not see listed the petite favorite Gap Legging Jean (see my review here) or my recent find of Joe's Jeans Provocateur Petite Fit Bootcut Jean (see my review here). Instead, the following were listed as the top 5 brands and styles for petites:

1. Paige Verdugo Jeggings

2. MiH Breathless Jean

3. J Brand Love Story

4. 7 For All Mankind Georgia Trouser Jeans

5. BDG High Rise Cigarette Jean

Of all the brands listed, I'm tempted by #5 because it's high-waisted and is reasonably priced. I don't need another pair of skinny jeans right now but I'm really tempted! How hot are these?

{click for image source}

Have you tried these jeans? Or any of the others?

I Am Petite No More Review: Joe's Jeans Provocateur Petite Fit Bootcut Jeans

Based on my past experience (all good) with Joe's Jeans, I went out on a limb and bought this pair of the Provocateur jeans online even though I had never tried on the Provocateur style before. Let me just jump the gun and give the verdict first...I LOVE THESE JEANS!! They make my legs look long and lean and I feel freaking fantastic (and mighty tall) in them. Keep keep keep!!

As you may recall, I had ordered both the size 23 and size 24 in hopes that one of them would fit me. Luckily, size 23 fits almost perfectly - no waist gap, fitted in the hips, butt, and thigh with no weird wrinkling in the back, and no hemming required with 2.5 inch heels or higher. My heels these days are normally 2 inches or lower so I'll most likely get them hemmed. According to the tag, these jeans are made especially for petites: "The Provocateur Petite Fit - this silhouette has a shorter inseam and a higher knee break to elongate the leg..." which addresses the problem with hemming jeans that were made for taller girls.

Here is the size 23 on me wearing 2 inch heels. It would've looked even better with higher heels, but those sexy shoes will be in storage for a good long while.

Joe's Jeans Provocateur Petite Fit Bootcut Jeans (buy here, here, or here)

Measured flat, the waist is 13", hips are 16", thigh is 7.5", and inseam is 31". You can see that I have a full break in front because the heels I'm wearing are too low.

From the back, you can see that the hem is barely above the ground. The original hem is distressed along the bottom edge. I'm actually not a fan of the distressed hem so if I were to shorten these jeans, I could save some money getting a regular hem for $8.

Anyway, these jeans are super comfortable and the denim is soft and thick. It is very difficult finding size 23 jeans so I'm extremely happy I took the risk in buying these! These jeans are going to last a long long time. Love!

As for the size 24 jeans, they were definitely a bit big on me. The stores are currently selling the Provocateur style for $153-$174 but only in size 24 online. For reference, those jeans measured in at approximately: waist 14", hips 16.5", thighs 8" and inseam 31". I'll be returning the size 24 tomorrow unless another petite wants them for the awesome price I paid plus shipping.

Review: I Can't Breathe and I Love It!

Yesterday I knocked on Gap and today I take it all back! I love you and the awesomeness that is your legging jeans!! I finally gave in and bought these very very popular jeggings in faded dark wash (see on Extra Petite and Really Petite) for $48.65 and in faded medium wash in sizes 00P and 0P for $20.99(!!) during the recent 30% off sale and ebates discount (referral link here).

Let me just say this. I love these jeans!! No wonder they've been reviewed to death. And you'd think I'd catch on a little bit sooner or pony up to buy them earlier but then you'd be thinking a lot of me. With that said, here's my final nail in the coffin of the Gap Legging Jeans review.

I originally wanted the faded dark wash (the 2 on the right) but ended up also buying the faded medium wash (the 2 on the left) because they were on sale. And you know what? I like the faded medium wash better. It fits better (more on this in a bit). And it's only ~$21 with no alterations needed!!! They're currently on sale for $24.99. **Update 1.30.11 - Get an additional 30% off with code GAPSALE30 to get these jeans for $17.49 (sizes 00P, 0P and 2P still available)**

If you click on the photo to enlarge, you can see that the fit is a little funky depending on the wash. The faded medium wash in 00P and 0P are almost exactly the same size in the waist, but the 0P is slightly longer (about 1 cm) so you get more of that scrunchiness at the hem. The leg in this color is very very fitted and the fading along the front of the thighs is very slimming. I could barely breath when pulling these on and it was awesome. After about an hour of wear, they stretched out and were as comfy as sweats (very important factor when crawling around the floor with the little peanut). The only question is: keep the 00P or 0P?

Gap Legging Jeans in Faded Medium Wash - 00P

Same jeans in 0P

The 00P and 0P in the faded dark wash is surprisingly much bigger throughout. It has the slightest waist gap in both sizes and the thighs and knees are loose on me! The color was also a little too dark for my taste. I guess I'm just a grittier kind of girl. So for almost $50 each, these darker jeans will be returned.

Gap Legging Jeans in Faded Dark Wash - 00P

Same jeans in 0P

Verdict: Keep 00P or 0P in Faded Medium Wash

Here's another picture comparing the sizes of the jeans in natural light to show the color better. Also for reference, the H&M Super Sqin Jeans in size 27 that I reviewed here has the same waist circumference as the 0P in Faded Medium Wash but the H&M pair sit lower on the hip.

Front to Back: 00P Faded Medium Wash, 0P Faded Medium Wash, 00P Faded Dark Wash, 0P Faded Dark Wash

Are you a member of the Sisterhood of the Gap Legging Jeans?

More Jeans...What a Deal!

Why am I obsessed with jeans? I've only been blogging for a little over a month and I have at least 3 posts just about jeans. Hmmm...

Anyway, petite gals! Difficult to find size 23 and 24 jeans with 30" inseam (that's right - no hemming!!) are available for $65 at HauteLook (referral link here) today! I'm soooo tempted but I've bought something online EVERY DAY this week. I totally gave into temptation and bought the jeans! I am so bad! But I do love my super old Joe's Jean's Honey Bootcut Jeans and wouldn't mind another pair of Joe's. They're so comfortable and super soft!

At any rate, here they are. Joe's Jeans Provocateur Bootcut Jeans in Medium Ryder Blue. Retails for $167 now $65!!!! About the same price as the Gap legging jeans I've been waiting to go on sale. Not that I'm knocking the Gap, but I'd take a pair of Joe's any day. Plus, flares and bootcuts are baaaack (although personally, I don't think bootcuts were ever or will ever be out because they're so flattering on everyone) so in case anyone needs to update their wardrobe. These are a great deal!

Joe's Jeans Provocateur Bootcut Jeans in Medium Ryder Blue

Update: I couldn't resist and ended up buying these jeans in a size 23 AND size 24. I hope one of these fit! I tried to add size 25 to the cart also but there's a 2 item limit per customer. I will just die if I'm a size 25. Grrr... At any rate, a jeans review will follow once I get 'em! 

Review: Forever 21 Chainlink Trim Sweater Jacket

I saw this jacket on the Forever 21 website and immediately wanted it! I love the navy color, the chainlink trim, and the fact that it's like a thick cardigan, but with more structure. This piece is 100% cotton and would be perfect for spring. It also fits in with the nautical theme that I really like.

Forever 21 Chainlink Trim Sweater Jacket - $34.80

I bought this jacket in size small and it fits me really well. I hesitated to post photos of myself wearing this because my picture taking skills are atrocious and the jacket honestly hangs and fits pretty much like the stock photos on the Forever 21 website. On the website, the 5'10" model is wearing a size small and here I am at 5'3" wearing the same size! Yet somehow, this jacket fits just as well on me as on the model.

The jacket in size small fits well in the shoulders and tapers in nicely at the waist. The sleeves are 3/4 length which I love because I always push up my sleeves. And the bottom of the jacket hits at the top of my hip. The color of the jacket is the same as the one seen in the stock photo. I used flash in my photo and it washed out the color. (Please forgive my poor camera skills!) The material is a stiff cotton which lends a nice structure and weight to the jacket. It'll be really great for spring and summer after I put the wool and cashmere away!

Verdict: Keep!

Review: H&M Super Sqin Jeans

I've been looking for a good pair of skinny jeans and was so excited when Jean at Extra Petite raved about the Gap Legging Jeans in faded dark wash. Since then, I've been waiting for a Gap sale or coupon because I wasn't ready to spend the $69.50 for it at full price. But then I saw Really Petite review a super inexpensive pair of jeans at H&M - the Super Sqin Jeans. She bought the lighter wash on sale for $10, but full price is only $19.95!

I'm by no means as tiny nor as fit as Really Petite, but I thought I'd give it a shot. The darker wash jeans were not on sale at the store I visited, but I bought it anyway because they were so comfortable! I normally wear a size 24 in jeans, but in the Super Sqin jeans, I wear a size 27! Or so I thought. (Note: these jeans need to be hemmed in all sizes.)

After wearing the jeans around the house for an hour, I noticed that the seat and knees were a little loose with these weird wrinkles between the rear and thighs. Is this normal? I'm not sure if it's because the jeans are too big or if the fit is off. Perhaps I don't have enough junk in the trunk to fill it out properly. The back pockets are also disproportionately large.

I tried the jeans on in a size 26 as well but I could barely pull them up! Maybe that's how tight they're supposed to feel going on as they're stretchy. I wonder if the size 27 will shrink if I wash them.

Verdict: Wash and shrink? Return for smaller size?

What do you think - keep or not to keep? Any idea why these jeans would have these wrinkles in the back?

Ann Taylor Review: 40% off Entire Purchase

I went to Ann Taylor today to check out their semi-annual sale - 40% off everything in the store - and walked out with 4 cardigans, 1 sleeveless sweater, 1 dress, 1 skirt, and 2 scarves.

Solid Merino V-Neck Cardigan in XSP - $78 now $23.99

First up is the Solid Merino V-Neck Cardigan in XSP - $78 now $23.99. There were lots of colors and sizes in the store and it was marked down to $39.99 (it's only marked down to $44.99 online). I bought frosted wisteria, black, med pebble heather, and coral rose. Here I am wearing coral rose and you can see how thin the fabric is. The fit is terrific though (I'm 5'3" and 95 pounds) - it's fitted in the sleeves and torso. Just be careful with the sheerness in the lighter colors. Verdict: I'm keeping black and will probably return coral rose and frosted wisteria in exchange for the darker colors of colonial blue and black raspberry.

Twinkle Sleeveless Cowl Neck Top in XSP - $78 now $29.99

Next is the Twinkle Sleeveless Cowl Neck Top in brown, size XSP - $78 now $29.99. I love this top! It has a little sparkle so it'll go great underneath a blazer for daytime and on its own at night. The shape is sophisticated and the fit is terrific. My only problem here was getting the cowl to drape just so. But once I got it, it looked great. Verdict: Keep!

Long Sleeve Pleated Neckline Dress in 00P - $79.99 now $48.03

This picture does not do this dress justice! It's no longer available online so I don't know what it's called but it's a long sleeve black wool dress with pleating detail along the neckline. I'm wearing it in 00P and no alterations will be required! It's just the perfect dress for the office but it also can be glammed up for night. Below is a picture of the dress on the mannequin in the store window. You can see a little more detail here and I love how it's styled with a bold necklace.

Next I bought the Wool Sateen Lace Trim Skirt in size 00P - $118 now $47.99.

Wool Sateen Lace Trim Skirt in 00P - $118 now $47.99

Again, the picture does not do this skirt justice, but you can see the lace detail, which is along the side seams of the dress, online. The fit of this skirt is amazing! The waist is snug, the sides skim my hips, and the length is just above the knees. No alterations needed! The lace trim adds just a little something to an otherwise plain, but well fitting, black skirt. The price seems a little high at $47.99. What do you think? Is this worth keeping? Verdict: Maybe

Finally, I bought 2 scarves.

I love this scarf! It's a long infinity scarf with a little sparkle that I looped around three times. It's surprisingly lightweight and airy - it's made of 44% alpaca, 29% acrylic, 18% wool, 6% polyester, and 3% other fiber. And it's only $48 now $17.99. Verdict: Keep!

The lighting really does not bring out the vibrant color of this long wrinkly and sparkly scarf. The color is navy with silver sparkles. And the fabric is lightweight and sheer - 82% wool, 10% metallic, 8% nylon. It cost me $38 now $11.99. Do you think I can wear this in the spring? Or is it too much of a winter scarf? Verdict: Maybe

Have you checked out the Ann Taylor sale? What did you buy?

Review: Jergens Extra Moisturizing Hand Wash

As a new mom who washes her hands 30-40 times a day (I wash my hands before and after every diaper change, before every feeding, and basically after I touch anything other than the little peanut), it's inevitable that my hands will get dry and cracked. But that's just it. My hands are great!

Jergens Extra Moisturizing Hand Wash

I attribute this lucky happenstance to my religious use of Jergens Extra Moisturizing Hand Wash. I wash with this hand soap every time (except when I was away for the holidays where my hands got wrecked!). The soap is a white shimmery liquid that smells a little sweet, lathers up lightly, and washes off easily and cleanly with just a nickel-size amount. It's also super cheap! Only $2.19 for 7.5 fl oz at drugstore.com - and it lasts me about 2-3 months! My only gripe is the packaging - not so pretty. I take care of that by pouring the contents out into a pretty dispenser. Perfect!

Weeview: Janie and Jack Snow Bunny Ear Flap Hat

I've been looking for a little hat for the little peanut to keep her fuzzy head toasty this winter and I finally found her one over the holidays. It's the Snow Bunny Ear Flap Hat from Janie and Jack.

Janie and Jack Snow Bunny Ear Flap Hat in size 3 to 6 months - $24 now $19.99

The exterior is made of 97% cotton and 3% cashmere. The hat is lined on the interior in a super soft cotton fabric. The ear flaps are a nice touch and help keep the little peanut warm. I have to admit that the hat doesn't look like much on display, but plunk that sucker on the little peanut's head and she is transformed! I just love this hat!

A similar hat that is less expensive is this bunny hat from babyGap.

babyGap Bunny Hat - $16.50 now $8.99

I originally wanted to buy this hat, but then saw the Janie and Jack one and fell in love. babyGap has lots of other cute hats for under $15 here, here, and here.