Recent Purchases + Reviews

Today I’m doing some spring clothing try-ons, sharing reviews of items I’ve purchased recently & hopefully giving you some outfit ideas too!  When I took a look back at all of these photos together, I had to laugh because it feels like my personal style is all over the place.  But I’ve always preached that you should wear what you feel best in…so if one day that’s a simple denim-on-denim look and the next day it’s ruffles & eyelet…that’s okay!  You don’t have to fit into any one box – just dress for yourself and don’t worry about what others think.  Fashion is meant to be fun after all!

LEFT:  Maison Jules Top // River Island Skirt (similar here or here) // A New Day Heels
RIGHT:  Maison Jules Top // Ann Taylor Pants (similar here or here) // Similar Sandals

I like to play around with trends from time to time – but because these are not wardrobe staples, I don’t want to spend a lot on styles that may not have significant staying power.  So when I find a great piece that’s tastefully done & affordably priced, I’m pretty quick to pull the trigger.  Often times, trends don’t feel super-versatile, so I wanted to show you how to wear this one-shoulder top two different ways.  Obviously, you could pair it with jeans, but these are some alternate options that play up the femininity of the ruffles & really give it that “wow factor”.  This would be so fun for a girls’ night out, date night or if you have an upcoming vacation planned.  VERDICT: worth the price; flattering; runs true to size.

LEFT:  LOFT Tunic // Similar Scarf // Similar Pants here or here // Charles David Sandals
RIGHT:  Xhilaration Gingham Top // Gap Eyelet Pants // BP Heels

Technically, this crochet tunic is a beach cover-up but I think it works just as well over chambray pants (or denim), though I can’t wait to wear it with my swimsuit later this summer.  I bought this during a 40% off sale so I think it was a great price.  The open-knit pattern gives it a light, airy feel and I love the bell sleeve detail.  For reference, I’m 5’8″ and I feel like the length is perfect on me.  VERDICT: wait for a sale to purchase; may need camisole underneath; runs true to size

When I first saw this gingham top, it instantly reminded me of a designer version I’d been crushing on (here).  So I knew I had to make it mine when I saw it was less than $23!  The smocking at the neckline helps it stay put (although you can wear it up on the shoulder too) and the lace trim at the sleeves makes it look more expensive than it is.  Right now, Target is having a B1G1 50% off sale on select Xhilaration styles, so you can get this for even less if you buy another style (like this striped skirt, this floral dress or this lace top).  VERDICT: worth the price; fun for summer; recommend sizing down

* I’ve worn these eyelet pants before on the blog, but wanted to mention that they’re on sale now + an extra 20% off with code GOFORIT.

LEFT:  Old Navy Chambray Shirt // Michael Kors Skirt // Sam Edelman Wedges
RIGHT:  Express Sweater // Similar Skirt here or here // Similar Necklace // Similar Wedges

I’ve been needing a new chambray shirt & was having a hard time finding one that was the right weight & softness – so many denim shirts are too stiff!  I was pleasantly surprised to find one that was budget-friendly and met all my criteria.  I personally like this medium wash, but it also comes in a lighter blue that would be great for spring/summer.  Because I have a longer torso, I order all my shirts from Old Navy in Tall (this also comes in petite as well).  VERDICT: worth the price; classic wardrobe staple; runs true to size

When our weather started warming up, I noticed that I didn’t have a lot of lightweight pullover sweaters in my closet.  So I grabbed this one to try and it’s just the type of versatile, comfortable knit that I was needing.  The mixed stitch adds interest & I like the shape of the sleeves with the tie detail.  This is shorter in front & slightly longer in back, which I love because I prefer to half-tuck my sweaters in the spring.  VERDICT: wait for a sale to purchase; great transitional knit; recommend sizing down