I snapped these pictures on my way out the door yesterday (still not feeling 100%, so it's nothing earth-shattering). I've had the inspiration photo saved for ages, and I love that it gave me the boost I needed to not just throw on jean shorts like usual. I'm also excited because I finally figured out how to layer three necklaces (score), and I'm sporting my new birthday bag (the big day was July 30). 

The story behind the bag: every year for my birthday I set aside a budget for a new dress, but this year I decided to go big and invest in a leather purse. I set a budget of $300 and was hoping to score a deal at TJ Maxx or the like, but then I spotted this bag on the Karen Millen website and it was game over. It was perfect. As an added bonus, I did an event with Karen Millen in May, and as part of that they offered to gift us an item from the collection. Since her gorgeous dresses are generally out of my budget ($200+), I had declined (I only accept a free item if I would truly be willing to pay for it - if I told you how many expensive items I turn down it would make you cry). But besides being something I would be willing to invest in, it was also something I felt I earned (by working the event), so that's how this expensive beauty wound up in my hands. A little splurge gift for surviving another year on this crazy planet, and now I can go back to pinching pennies. Do you buy yourself a birthday gift each year? What kinds of things do you usually buy?

Inspiration photo: Refinery29

Shirt: Gap, $10 ( similar)

Skirt: Express, $18

Shoes: Nine West/DSW, $60

Purse: c/o Karen Millen, $340 (vegan alternatives here and  here)