Today's Everyday Fashion: Girls Night

I wore this last Saturday for dinner with the girls! This was a quick fashion decision - I got dressed in 5 minutes flat. The shirt looked way funny tucked in, but the shirt untucked was sloppy and boxy, so I turned to my favorite accessory, the belt, to add some curve to the shirt and pull everything together. It almost looks like a layered dress, but I'm glad these are separate pieces that I'll be able to pair with other colors, too. Would you wear lavender and orange together?

Shirt: Forever 21, $12 (in stock)
Skirt: c/o Style by Marina, $39 (sold out)
Belt: Gap, $10 (similar)
Necklaces: c/o Colorblockshop, $36 and H&M, $4 (similar, similar)
Purse: Ann Taylor, $30
Shoes: Chinese Laundry/Piperlime, $34

1. ASOS lavender skirt, $41.42
2. Zappos lavender skirt, $75
3. Topshop lavender skirt, $68

New Makeover Show Episode: Meet Lauren!

I am so excited to present a new episode of my makeover show! (You can watch the whole thing above - just click to play! Or watch it on IzonOrlando here.) Lauren is a busy mother of two, who recently lost her baby weight and had a $1,000 budget to overhaul her closet. She hired me to shop with her, and halfway through our day I surprised her with an invitation to be on the show. She was such a good sport, and didn't even bat an eye when a few days later we took over her house with lights, cameras and equipment.

If you've watched the pilot, we have changed the format quite a bit. You'll see more than 20 complete outfits, and a rundown of everything she bought and what she is wearing is listed below. This project is more than just styling for me, though - the show concept is my baby (you guys know how passionate I am about realistic fashion journalism for women on a budget!), and beyond being the host, I wrote the script and co-executive produced. (Thankfully, Annette at InStyle Hair in Baldwin Park did my hair so that was one thing I didn't have to worry about that day!) There are several things I'd like to improve for the next episode, but ultimately I'm proud of our shopping results, and I think you are going to love Lauren - enjoy!

What Lauren Bought:

5 skirts
--- Printed: Anthropologie, $75 (similar, similar)
--- Blue striped: LOFT, $5 (similar)
--- Green: Ann Taylor, $51
--- Black: LOFT, $25 (similar)
--- Denim: Gap, $17 (similar)

2 shorts
--- Cobalt: Gap, $27
--- White: LOFT, $32

1 jeans
--- White: Gap, $54

8 tops
--- Mint:  LOFT, $24
--- Beige: LOFT, $22 (similar)
--- Ivory: Banana Republic, $26 (similar)
--- Navy polka dot: Gap, $20 (similar, similar)
--- Pastel printed: Banana Republic, $17 (similar, similar)
--- Tribal: Banana Republic, $39
--- Pink halter: Banana Republic, $42 (similar, similar)
--- White: Banana Republic, $23 (similar)

2 cardigans
--- Citrus: Banana Republic, $39 (similar)
--- Orange: LOFT, $22 (similar)

1 dress
--- Military: Banana Republic, $64

4 belts
--- Brown: Gap, $23
--- Black, nude, yellow: H&M, $15 (similar, similar)

2 shoes
--- Brown wedges: LOFT, $63
--- Nude sandals: Macy's/BCBG, $75

1 necklace
--- LOFT, $20  (similar)

Grand Total = $920 (Lauren's budget was $1,000)

Lauren's Outfits, In Order of Appearance (left to right above):

Outfit 1
Purple tank - Lauren's own (similar)
Printed skirt- Anthropologie, $75 (similar, similar)
Brown belt - Gap, $23
Wedges - LOFT, $63

Outfit 2
Mint top - LOFT, $24
Printed skirt - Anthropologie, $75 (similar, similar)
Sandals - Macy's/BCBG, $75

Outfit 3
Beige top - LOFT, $22 (similar)
Printed skirt - Anthropologie, $75 (similar, similar)
Nude belt - H&M, $5
Nude shoes - Lauren's own (similar)

Outfit 4
Orange cardigan - LOFT, $22 (similar)
Ivory top - Banana Republic, $26 (similar)
Striped skirt - LOFT, $5 (similar)
Nude shoes - Lauren's own (similar)

Outfit 5
Green top - Lauren's own (similar)
Brown belt - Gap, $23
Striped skirt - LOFT, $5 (similar)
Wedges - LOFT, $63

Outfit 6
Polka dot top - Gap, $20 (similar, similar)
Green skirt - Ann Taylor, $51
Yellow belt - H&M, $5 (similar)
Sandals - Macy's/BCBG, $75

Outfit 7
Pastel print top - Banana Republic, $17 (similar, similar)
Green skirt - Ann Taylor, $51
Nude shoes - Lauren's own (similar)

Outfit 8
Citrus cardigan - Banana Republic, $39 (similar)
Ivory top - Lauren's own (similar)
Brown belt - Gap, $23
Green skirt - Ann Taylor, $51
Wedges - LOFT, $63

Outfit 9
Beige top - LOFT, $22 (similar)
Black skirt - LOFT, $25 (similar)
Necklace - LOFT, $20  (similar)
Black belt - H&M, $5 (similar)
Black shoes - Lauren's own (similar)

Outfit 10
White cardigan - Lauren's own (similar)
Striped shirt - Lauren's own (similar)
Belt - Lauren's own
Denim skirt - Gap, $17 (similar)
Wedges - LOFT, $63

Outfit 11
Citrus cardigan - Banana Republic, $39 (similar)
Red shirt - Lauren's own
Denim skirt - Gap, $17 (similar)
Wedges - LOFT, $63

Outfit 12
Mint shirt - LOFT, $24
Cobalt shorts - Gap, $27
Sandals - Macy's/BCBG, $75

Outfit 13
White shirt - Banana Republic, $23 (similar)
Cobalt shorts - Gap, $27
Sandals - Macy's/BCBG, $75

Outfit 14
Purple shirt - Lauren's own (similar)
Cobalt shorts - Gap, $27
Wedges - LOFT, $63

Outfit 15
Citrus cardigan - Banana Republic, $39 (similar)
Tribal shirt - Banana Republic, $39
Brown belt - Gap, $23
White shorts - LOFT, $32
Sandals - Macy's/BCBG, $75

Outfit 16
Polka dot top - Gap, $20 (similar, similar)
White shorts - LOFT, $32
Wedges - LOFT, $63

Outfit 17
Pink halter - Banana Republic, $42 (similar, similar)
Necklace - Lauren's own (similar, similar)
White jeans - Gap, $54
Sandals - Macy's/BCBG, $75

Outfit 18
Beige shirt - LOFT, $22 (similar)
Necklace - LOFT, $20 (similar)
Pink pants - LOFT, $43 (similar, similar)
Nude shoes - Lauren's own (similar)

Outfit 19
Ivory shirt - Lauren's own (similar)
Pink pants - LOFT, $43 (similar, similar)
Nude shoes - Macy's/BCBG, $75

Outfit 20
Blue shirt - Lauren's own (similar, similar)
Pink pants - LOFT, $43 (similar, similar)
Wedges - LOFT, $63

Outfit 21
Dress - Banana Republic, $64
Brown belt - Gap, $23
Wedges - LOFT, $63

Today's Everyday Fashion: Big Bang Theory

I'm wearing my new shirt and skirt at my retail consulting gig today! I was immediately obsessed with this top - its reminds me of Sheldon's fun shirts on Big Bang Theory (love that show!). The top is only available online so placing an order was a must, even though I prefer to shop in person. The skirt was on my June wish list so that was an immediate yes, and this printed yellow top on sale rounded out the order and got me to free shipping. I had a 30% off coupon so the total was $93 (I will add this to my budget post at the end of the month). Are you a Big Bang Theory fan? Would you wear this geometric look?

Shirt: Limited, $32
Skirt: Limited, $39
Earrings: My Stella & Dot website, $49
Shoes: Colin Stuart c/o MJR Sales, $24 (similar, similar)
Purse: Juicy Couture/Macy's, $250 (similar, similar)
Watch: Michael Kors, family gift
Ring: My Stella & Dot website $49
Left bracelets: My Stella & Dot website $49 and $32
Right bracelets: My Stella & Dot website $59 and $39

Win $100 from Go Chic or Go Home! [now closed]

I'm so excited about this giveaway! J's Everyday Fashion readers have the chance to win $100 to shop at the retailer of their choice, including Gap, Madewell and ASOS. But first let's talk about the company behind the giveaway - Go Chic or Go Home! If you love Pinterest and Facebook, you will really enjoy this all-fashion photo-sharing community that is full of inspiration for your style, closet, and shopping. And the virtual closet will make you feel like Cher in Clueless! To enter the giveaway:

• Become a member of Go Chic or Go Home in two easy steps. 1. Request an invite here.  2. Use the invite link you receive to sign up on the website.
• Leave a comment below telling us your favorite feature about the Go Chic or Go Home community.

It's that easy! Existing members are more than welcome to enter the giveaway. Simply log into Go Chic or Go Home so that your account is active during the giveaway period, and then leave a comment below. This giveaway is open to international readers. We will choose a winner at random on Thursday, June 14. Good luck!

Today's Everyday Fashion: Peachy Keen

Head-to-toe pink? Don't mind if I do. I slightly prefer her neutral shoes to my bright ones, but since both looks I've done with these jeans so far included nude pumps, I felt the need to switch it up. (And show you some different options!) My blush cardigan looks almost beige next to the vibrant colors in this outfit and tones things down, but it's still a bold look. Would you go for head-to-toe pink or keep your shoes neutral?

Inspiration photo: New York & Company
Shirt: Limited, $16
Cardigan: LOFT, $20 (similar, similar, similar)
Jeans: Limited, $40
Shoes: Michael Antonio/Zappos, $48
Watch: Michael Kors, family gift
Rings: LOFT pink ring $11, My Stella & Dot website $49

Left bracelets: My Stella & Dot website $49 and $32
Right bracelets: My Stella & Dot website $59 and $39

1. Calvin Klein peach top, $44
2. Ann Taylor peach top, $48
3. Limited peach top, $24.99

Today's Everyday Fashion: Style Chameleon

I wore this playful "Barbie" look for dinner and a movie last weekend. In the same night, I considered a rocker-esque look, and something hippie-ish. In the end, my girlie side won and this is the look I went with. I know many women have really specific personal style. Jennifer Aniston is almost always wearing something preppy, and Nicole Richie is boho. I am more of your Sarah Jessica Parker - a style chameleon who likes to switch things up. When I'm casual I'm usually preppy or boho, but when I'm dressed up the sky is the limit and I will try anything. Rocker, Barbie, tribal, 80's, ballerina, you name it. I'm curious to hear which profile you identify with - do you have a signature style that you stick with, or do you like to experiment with different styles?

Inspiration photo: FabSugar
Blazer: H&M, $37 (similar, similar, similar)
Shirt: J.Crew, $45
Shorts: Gap, $24
Clutch: c/o LOFT, $28 (similar)
Necklace: Banana Republic, $12 (similar)
Shoes: Colin Stuart c/o MJR Sales, $17 (similar, similar)
Watch: Michael Kors, family gift
Rings: My Stella & Dot website $49 and $49
Left bracelets: My Stella & Dot website $49 and $32
Right bracelets: My Stella & Dot website $59 and Kohl's $9

1. Free People shirt, $70.99

2. Forever 21 shirt, $17.80

3. Piperlime shirt, $54

Today's Everyday Fashion: White Out

All the rain we had last week cooled down temperatures quite a bit, and I was craving this look. I love wearing white in the summer and the addition of the military vest breaks up the blank canvas without the added heat of a jacket. This is personally my favorite kind of simple, preppy look for running errands or meeting friends for lunch - and I also think it would be a great look for a mom-on-the-go (just bring a Tide stick in case you spill something). Would you dare to wear all-white?

Inspiration photo: My Daily Style
Vest: Banana Republic, $35 (similar, similar, similar)
Shirt: H&M, $18
Jeans: Gap, $30 (similar, similar)
Belt: H&M, $20
Shoes: Nine West/DSW, $60
Purse: c/o It's in the Bag, $99
Necklace: My Stella & Dot website, $59
Watch: Michael Kors, family gift
Rings: My Stella & Dot website $49 and $49
Left bracelets: My Stella & Dot website $49 and $32
Right bracelets: My Stella & Dot website $59 and Kohl's $9

1. Charlotte Russe top, $18.99

2. Lord & Taylor top, $46.80

3. J.Crew top, $90

Also see this post: 14 ways to wear white skinny jeans, here.

Today's Everyday Fashion: Frayed Shorts

I'm a big believer that if you want to change something about an item, then you probably shouldn't buy it. (I figure there are millions of options out there, so why settle?) I made an exception with these shorts though. I loved the color so much, they were just slightly too short for my liking. (See "before" picture on the left.) Since there was plenty of extra fabric in the rolled hems of the shorts, I figured it would be pretty easy to fix. I'm loving the "after" results, and I'm happy I went for it. Here's how I did it:

1. Carefully cut the threads holding the rolled hems in place.
2. Carefully cut the seam off along the bottom of the shorts. On these shorts that wound up being about a 1/4 inch, and following the seam line made it easy to ensure that the shorts didn't wind up lopsided.
3. Throw them in the washer and dryer.
4. When you pull them out, you'll have a perfect "fray." Cut off any long pieces and you are ready to rock!

It was a really easy fix and the shorts are the perfect length now. Have you ever DIYed a pair of shorts?

Shorts: Candie's c/o Kohl's, $25
Sweater: c/o LOFT, $20 (similar, similar)
Necklace: H&M, $14
Shoes: Diba/Nordstrom Rack, $40
Watch: Michael Kors, family gift
Rings: My Stella & Dot website $49 and $49
Left bracelets: My Stella & Dot website $49 and $32
Right bracelets: My Stella & Dot website $59 and Kohl's $9

1. Bandolino sandals, $69

2. C Label sandals, $28.95

3. Aldo sandals, $20.99

4. Nine West sandals, $44.99

Today's Everyday Fashion: Lady Bloggers

Dress is blue, ivory and camel

We had a Central Florida Lady Bloggers meet-up on Tuesday night and this is what I wore! This outfit is my version of high-low dressing. The necklace was a splurge, but the 100% silk dress was a steal at $33. I'm loving colorblock pieces right now, and while this dress felt decidedly "mod" off the hanger (it has a box shape), it feels more tribal with the addition of cognac leather belt and shoes, and the intricate necklace. Are you a fan of colorblock dresses?

Dress: Love 21, $33
Necklace: My Stella & Dot website, $228
Belt: H&M, $18
Shoes: Restricted/Endless, $40 (similar, similar)
Watch: Michael Kors, family gift
Rings: My Stella & Dot website $49 and $49
Left bracelets: My Stella & Dot website $49 and $32
Right bracelets: My Stella & Dot website $59 and Kohl's $9

1. ModCloth dress, $39.99

2. Forever 21 dress, $19.80

3. Urban Outfitters dress, $59

4. ModCloth dress, $57.99

5. Piperlime dress, $69

6. Need Supply Co. dress, $39.99

7. Nordstrom dress, $68.90

Central FL Lady Bloggers

Today's Everyday Fashion: Blue Skies

I love the varying shades of cobalt and turquoise in this outfit, and I dug the idea of pairing mellow blue tones with a light khaki jacket. I've had my jacket for about 5 years and it's one of my favorite things to throw on on my way out the door. (Tip: if you look closely at the zippers you will notice it actually has a mandarin collar, but I ironed it open to look more like a blazer.) I would wear this look for errands, or for a casual lunch meeting, in blue skies or on a rainy day. Where would you wear today's look?

Inspiration photo: Intermix
Blazer: Banana Republic, $35 (similar, similar, similar)
Shirt: Banana Republic, $17
Shorts: Gap, $28
Shoes: Steven Madden Riddgge c/o MJR Sales, $40 (similar, similar)
Purse: Calvin Klein/TJ Maxx, $120 (similar)
Short necklace: My Stella & Dot website, $79
Long necklace: My Stella & Dot website, $59
Watch: Michael Kors, family gift
Rings: My Stella & Dot website $49 and $49
Left bracelets: My Stella & Dot website $49 and $32
Right bracelets: My Stella & Dot website $59 and $39

1. LOFT top, $29.50

2. Forever 21 top, $17.80

3. Zappos top, $50

4. ASOS top, $43.49

5. Need Supply Co top, $36

Today's Everyday Fashion: Alexander McQueen

Of all the runway shows and all the designers, Alexander McQueen was definitely one of my favorites. I think this inspiration photo was taken after Sarah Burton took over, but I can still see his influence and I love it. I'm not sure if I could get away with a backwards hair net and pink brace as a fashion statement, however, I did give it a try with a lime pencil skirt and soft pink shirt, necklace and shoes. I ultimately decided to return these shoes (too similar to my nude pumps), but I do like this for a work look. Which runway designers are your favorites? Are you a fan of blush pink pumps?

Inspiration photo: Alexander McQueen via FabSugar
Shirt: Victoria's Secret c/o MJR Sales, $24 (same shirt, similar)
Necklace: H&M, $14
Skirt: Limited, $25
Shoes: Lauren Conrad c/o Kohl's, $30 (returning)
Purse: Calvin Klein/TJ Maxx, $120 (similar)
Rings: LOFT pink ring $11, My Stella & Dot website $49

Watch: Michael Kors, family gift
Left bracelets: My Stella & Dot website $49 and $32
Right bracelets: My Stella & Dot website $59 and Kohl's $9

1. Nordstrom lime skirt, $59
2. Topshop lime skirt, $72
3. Anthropologie lime skirt, $39.99
4. Loehmann's yellow skirt, $29.99
5. Urban Outfitters lime skirt, $49

How to Set a Clothing Budget

I'm a huge believer in having a clothing budget. I've had one for going on five years, and I can indubitably say that it has made me a better dresser, given me peace of mind, and saved me tons of money. I post a recap of everything I buy each month, with an explanation of why I bought those items. (You can see those budget posts archived here.) I do this to encourage you guys to spend wisely, to set a budget and to stick to it. Today, let's talk about how to set one, but first let's talk about why!

Why Have a Clothing Budget?

• Clothing is a necessity. The first and best reason to have a clothing budget? Clothes are a necessity, because you simply can't leave the house without them. *wink* Every personal budget includes clothing, so it's important to not overlook this category if you are organizing your finances.
• It relieves guilt. The first thing I noticed when I created a budget is that it relieved buyer's guilt. I am my father's child, and I absolutely hate spending any money on clothing, even though I love fashion. This dichotomy and guilt used to eat me alive. Having a budget though, can actually be great medicine for this, because if it is in the budget, it is fair game. I don't let my conscience guilt me any longer!
• It creates family peace. Along the same lines, if you are married or sharing your finances with someone, having a set budget can be a great way to bring peace to your home. You don't need to discuss purchases with your spouse, and you don't need to hide your shopping bags. If it's in the budget that you mutually agreed upon, then it is fair game. 
• It helps with purchasing decisions. Another one of my favorite reasons for having a clothing budget is that it helps with purchasing decisions. If you have $200 to spend on a shopping trip, then you can view potential purchases as a piece of that pie. An $80 blazer that is marked down from $300 might seem like a steal, but if it's almost half your budget, then it may not be the best use of your money at that time. A huge part of being a well-dressed person is being a smart shopper in my opinion, so having a budget can certainly help your style! 

How to Set a Clothing Budget

• Your income. Most financial planners recommend to set aside between 2-8% of your take-home income for clothing (because, again, clothing is a necessity). This is a great starting point for computing your personal clothing budget. This can actually be a pretty large range though, so how do you decide which number to go with? Keep reading for more factors to consider.
• Your family. The first thing to consider is that the budget includes everyone in your family - so if you have children, then their clothing also needs to come out of this budget. If you are single, then the budget is just for you.
• Your job. Your job is going to be another huge factor in deciding how much money to set aside for clothes. Some jobs, such as working in a law office or a fashion magazine, are going to requireclothing that is higher quality and of more variety, and therefore you should create a larger budget. A job with a uniform, however, should save you a considerable amount on clothing since you only need clothes for weekends and fun occasions.
• Your financial goals. This is another huge factor to consider. Are you saving money for a house? Are you paying off credit card debt? If you have significant financial goals or stressors, then you will want to reduce your clothing budget as much as possible to make room for these other (more important) categories. I don't recommend completely doing away with your clothing budget if at all possible though - because if you completely close off the category that can actually lead to irresponsible and/or sporadic spending. 
• Your values. You may value other things in your life more than clothing - such as traveling, or donating to charity. These can be reasons to reduce your clothing budget and move those funds into other categories that mean the most to you.  
• Your shopping habits. Another factor to consider - do you tend to shop often, or only a couple times a year? For someone who shops often, I like to suggest a monthly clothing budget. If you tend to shop in one or two big chunks every year or when you have a big life event such as a new job, a clothing budget just for your shopping trip might be a better route.

How to Stick to a Clothing Budget

• Keep track. I'm not great with math, but even if you are, it can be difficult to keep track of your spending. If you don't write it down, it can seem like you are spending way more than you actually are, or vice versa. The best way to keep yourself honest is by simply writing it down.
• Carry over. If you have a monthly clothing budget, don't ever pressure yourself to spend it that same month;  I definitely don't recommend a "use it or loose it" mentality. If you want to save up for something big, then carry over the budget you didn't use from the previous months. Or do what I do and save some of your budget for the best times of year to score great deals - right after Christmas, and in late June/early July (when the clothing seasons change). 
• Return overages. Let's face it, sometimes our eyes are bigger than our wallets. No biggie. Whenever this happens to me, I go through my purchases that month and pick a few things to return. If I really, really love them, then I take them out of next month's budget, or I simply go back and buy them next month. 

Overall, I think there is a wide spectrum when it comes to clothing budgets - some of us may be entering overspending territory, and a clothing budget can help you scale it down. Some of us may be too frugal (yes, there is such a thing, I was this person!), and a clothing budget can help you gain the confidence to invest in quality clothing that is more appropriate for your job and lifestyle. A clothing budget helps us find balance, and as I experienced - helps you become a better dresser, brings peace of mind and saves you time and money.

What are your philosophies or tips for personal clothing budgets? Do you have a clothing budget?

Today's Everyday Fashion: Karen Millen Event

I wore this outfit for a busy day last week! It started with the Karen Millen event at Bloomingdale's (pictures below), and then two appointments across town. I love the idea of wearing lavender pants with dark neutrals like the inspiration photo. I recently picked up this 100% silk camp shirt from MJR Sales (my fourth one, I looove these shirts) and couldn't wait to take it for a spin. Would you wear lavender pants?

Inspiration photo: DVF
Shirt: Victoria's Secret c/o MJR Sales, $24 (similar, similar)
Jeans: Rewind c/o Kohl's, $25
Necklace: Banana Republic, old
Shoes: Colin Stuart c/o MJR Sales, $25 (similar, similar, similar, similar, similar)
Rings: My Stella & Dot website $49 and $49
Left bracelets: My Stella & Dot website $49 and $32
Right bracelets: My Stella & Dot website $59 and $39

1. Urban Outfitters necklace, $19.99

2. Pink Mascara necklace, $78

3. Urban Outfitters necklace, $88.99

Wearing a borrowed Karen Millen dress at the Bloomingdale's event.

With Dominque from Karen Millen

I loved the clothes - options for every age group and not crazy expensive.

With Melanie, Dominique from Karen Millen, and Katrina.

Today's Everyday Fashion: Change of a Dress

I tend to get bored more easily with dresses, because they can be harder (although not impossible) to wear in "new" ways. That's why I got excited about this inspiration photo from Harper's Bazaar. It inspired me to pair my old orange-red dress with a bright blue cardigan, and the unique color combo made it feel new again. It's a simple change, but when I wore it for church and errands yesterday, it certainly didn't feel like the same old frock. To see two more tips for getting creative with a dress go here, and tell me - what are some ways you make an old dress feel new again? 

Inspiration photo: Harper's Bazaar
Dress: Forever 21, $16
Cardigan: H&M, $18 (similar, similar)
Belt: H&M, $18
Shoes: Nine West/DSW, $60
Purse: Melie Bianco c/o It's in the Bag, $99
Necklace: My Stella & Dot website, $79
Rings: My Stella & Dot website $49 and $49
Watch: Michael Kors, family gift
Left bracelets: My Stella & Dot website $49 and $32
Right bracelets: My Stella & Dot website $59 and $39, c/o Sarah Aghili rainbow $2.50, cross $7.50, feather $10.50, beads $14.50

1. Old Navy red dress, $19.94

2. Forever 21 orange dress, $17.80

3. JcPenney orange dress, $17

Today's Everyday Fashion: Two Years

First re-creation

Two years ago today I started jseverydayfashion.com* - and what a ride it's been! I had a vision of fashion media without the frills, that felt doable, and ultimately would give women a realistic source for fashion inspiration (celebrities are the best, but how does someone on a budget do it?). And without a doubt I'm even more passionate about this cause today. Everyday I strive to bring you new ideas for using the items you already have in your closet, for smart shopping, and ultimately to help you solve the question "what do I wear?" so that you can get to the good stuff in life - your family, your job, and the things you care about the most. In celebration of two years, I decided to take a look back - at the first outfit I ever created (below) and my first ever re-creation (above)**. I'm also taking a look forward, but am both excited and nervous to not know what the next year will bring. And today? Today I want to recognize the best thing about this website - you! You mean the world to me; thank you for reading. Cheers to two years!

Inspiration photo: InStyle
Pink blazer: Banana Republic, $50 (similar)
Shirt: Banana Republic, $35
Necklace: Banana Republic, $18
Belt: The Limited, $20
Jeans: Gap, $30 (similar, similar, similar, similar)
Shoes: Banana Republic, $50
Purse: Juicy Couture/Macy's, $250

*I started daily outfit posts on Facebook on May 11, 2010 and created the website on May 27, 2010.
**Two years later these are still my favorite jeans, and I love both of these outfits. But what's with the popped collar below? (lol)

First outfit

Blazer: Gap, $50 (similar, similar)
Shirt: The Limited, $15 (similar, similar)
Jeans: Gap, $30 (similar, similar, similar, similar)
Belt: Gap, $10
Shoes: Coach/Marshalls, $70

Today's Everyday Fashion: Summer BBQ

Something about the casual, effortless style of the mint dress and jean jacket in this inspiration photo is making me craving a summer BBQ! I instantly wanted to re-create it, but since I don't own a jean jacket, I layered a light blue oxford shirt I've had for years over a flowy mint dress instead. (See how else I wore it here.) Add one part boat shoes and I'm ready for a casual stroll through a farmer's market, a BBQ or even to run errands. What are you wearing this holiday weekend?

Inspiration photo: Hatch
Shirt: Ralph Lauren outlet, $20 (similar)
Dress: Forever 21, $20
Shoes: White Mountain c/o Ross, $25 (similar, similar)
Purse: Calvin Klein/TJ Maxx, $120 (similar)
Earrings: c/o INPINK, $34

Rings: My Stella & Dot website $49 and $49
Watch: Michael Kors, family gift
Left bracelets: My Stella & Dot website $49 and $32
Right bracelets: My Stella & Dot website $59 and $39, c/o Sarah Aghili rainbow $2.50, cross $7.50, feather $10.50, beads $14.50

1. Forever 21 mint maxi, $22.80

2. Forever 21 pleated dress, $24.80

3. ASOS polka dot dress, $43.49

4. ASOS mint fringe dress, $38.27

5. Forever 21 mint dress, $19.80

Today's Everyday Fashion: Survey Nerd

I hope you are having a great Friday! I am kicking off the holiday weekend with a fun polka dot outfit. This is my second time wearing this dress, you can see the first one here. I love the idea of dressing it up with a blazer and heels for an occasion like a fancy brunch, or even a graduation party. Where would you wear this look?

And speaking of shoes, I have been meaning to share my tip on how I scored these hot pink beauties. I am a crazy survey nerd. I absolutely love taking them, and about 5 years ago I discovered Harris Polls. You take a couple surveys a week, accumulate points and eventually earn enough for a gift card. It took me 4 years (literally), but I finally earned enough for a $75 gift card to a long list of retailers. It took me another year to figure out what to spend it on, and I got these shoes from Zappos for $48, and have $25 left which will probably take me another year to spend. And I am totally sick of surveys now! :-) Not exactly the most efficient way to earn $75, but could be worth checking out if you love surveys too.

Inspiration: I Am Khatu
Blazer: Victoria's Secret c/o MJR Sales, $35 (similar, similar)
Dress: c/o LoveMode, $20
Necklace: H&M, $14 (similar, similar)
Shoes: Michael Antonio/Zappos, $48
Purse: c/o LOFT, $28 (similar)
Rings: My Stella & Dot website $49 and $49
Watch: Michael Kors, family gift
Left bracelets: My Stella & Dot website $49 and $32
Right bracelets: My Stella & Dot website $59 and $39

1. Piperlime yellow dress, $51.97

2. Forever 21 polka dot dress, $22.80

3. ASOS polka dot dress, $43.49

4. Old Navy yellow top, $12.99

5. Tory Burch yellow skirt, $136

Today's Everyday Fashion: Berries

This color combo reminds me of blueberries and raspberries (yum). Re-creating her look was a no-brainer with pieces already in my closet that are almost an exact match color-wise. The shoes added the perfect hint of orange to tie in the belt, and voila - a stylish work look (shoes may not be appropriate for all dress codes). You can see three other ways I wore the shirt here and here and here. How would you make this look your own?

Inspiration photo: J.Crew
Shirt: c/o McAuley's, $44 (old)
Skirt: Limited, $35 (similar)
Belt: came with a dress
Shoes: Aldo, $50 (similar, similar, similar)
Rings:  My Stella & Dot website $49 and $49
Watch: Michael Kors, family gift
Left bracelets: My Stella & Dot website $49 and $32
Right bracelets: My Stella & Dot website $59 and $39

1. Limited cobalt shirt, $24.99

2. Express cobalt shirt, $34.93

3. Gap cobalt shirt, $19.95

Win $150 to Beso! [now closed]

Today I'm excited to bring you an awesome giveaway! Beso.com, the ultimate shopping search engine, is giving away a $150 credit to one lucky reader. (Check out my top shopping picks from them above.) To enter:

1. Visit Beso.com and create an account (if you don't have one already)
2. Build your dream shopping collection. Feel free to get creative with the theme, or just pick your favorite items. TIP: To create a collection, search around the site and click the “+” symbol next to each product. Then select “Add to New Collection.” Continue to shop, shop, shop! It's really easy. Check out mine for inspiration.
3. Share a link to the collection you created in the comment section below.

That's it! We will randomly select one winner on Thursday, May 31st. The contest is open to US residents 18 and older. Only one entry per person. Good luck!!

Congrats to our winner! Thanks to everyone who entered!

Today's Everyday Fashion: White Shoes

I'm loving the mixing stripes trend so much, and was thankful for this J.Crew photo which inspired me to try it in a new way. I paired my navy striped blazer with a 5+year old striped collared shirt and navy pencil skirt. I love this idea for work - the mixed stripes are trendy, but subdued. I originally tried my go-to nude pumps but I've been wearing them so much, I wanted to try something different, plus these shoes haven't gotten some love in almost a year. White shoes are a tad tricky for me - I certainly don't subscribe to the Labor Day rules when it comes to white jeans (I think they are equally at home in the winter), but white shoes I'm a little more careful with. I don't think the exact date is important, but I only wear them during the hottest months, usually between May-September. Curious to hear what you think! Are white shoes a faux pas? Do you follow any Labor Day rules?

Inspiration photo: J.Crew
Blazer: Express c/o MJR Sales, $30 (similar, similar)
Shirt: Ralph Lauren outlet, old (similar)
Navy skirt: Limited, $25 (similar, similar)
Shoes: Banana Republic, $25
Rings: LOFT pink ring $11, My Stella & Dot website $49
Watch: Michael Kors, family gift
Left bracelets: My Stella & Dot website $49 and $32
Right bracelets: My Stella & Dot website $59 and $39

1. Chinese Laundry wedges, $55.30

2. Michael Antonio wedges, $49

3. Aldo pumps, $29.98

4. Loehmann's sandals, $39.99

I also want to invite you guys to join me at Bloomingdale's at Mall at Millenia in Orlando tomorrow (Thursday, May 24) from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. The store is launching their Karen Millen shop for the first time, and I will be at your service along with two other stylists to help you shop. If you live in the area, I hope you will come by and say hello!