ready

I am so ready for winter to be over. This one has felt particularly long, I think in part because of how long my days are and the lack of having free weekends. I'm sick of having to find ways to dress around the snow - it usually leaves me with having to wear a dress so I can wear boots, and then my one pair of full length dress pants for when it momentarily stops snowing. I'm ready for dresses that don't require tights, ankle pants, and sandals. I'm ready for my dogs wanting to by outside for longer than two minutes at a time - they've been cooped up all winter and it's starting to show. 

I'm also ready for it to be the weekend. This coming weekend is the first weekend in months and months and months where we don't have any test the following week. Although I still have to study a lot, I plan on A. sleeping in and B. driving up to Buffalo to go shopping by myself. I haven't really gone to a mall by myself since I moved since I've always driven with friends, but this time I'm excited to just get to walk around and take as long as I want staring at things I probably won't end up buying. I did put in a few orders in the last week so I could try some things on and then have the opportunity to return in store. I ordered this scarf and am so excited to wear it all spring. The blues and reds in it will be perfect for wearing with a bunch of different items in my closet, and it's big and fluffy without being overwhelming. I also ordered this dress because I thought it would be a great quick throw-on dress, but it ended up being too short so I'm hoping they'll have the next size up in stores. I also ordered this blouse and this peplum top just to try on - I've never done the whole peplum thing because they have always been too short on me, but this one comes in tall so I'm hoping it'll be long enough.  

Blazer: Thrifted

Top: JC Penneys [similar]

Scarf: Forever 21 [exact]

Pants: The Limited [exact]

Watch: Target [similar]

Shoes: Lucky [exact]

happy heart happy life

 

It was such a good weekend! Like I said on Friday, Chris and I have spent the last three months apart so deciding to do a last minute trip half way between us was exactly what we needed. It was Chris's birthday on Friday, and I'm so glad we got to celebrate at least the last hour of it together (in the middle of Indiana).

We did a bunch of annoying couple things, but also went out into the real world to buy his birthday present. He wanted a second G-Shock watch because they apparently are what all the surgeons he works with wear, so we went and bought him this one. Boy fashion, mmkay. While he was busy deciding which watch he wanted, I spent a good amount of time staring down all the rose-gold watches. I've wanted one for so long (years!) but I'm really picky about watches (I hate little fake diamonds and little fake hands). I have a little bit of extra money coming in in about a month, so I'm thinking about taking a portion to buy a watch (outside of my budget - such a rebel). I really like the look of this one, and possibly something a little bit more masculine like this (which is actually a guys watch). Any recommendations or experiences with Michael Kors or Stuhrling watches? I'm not looking to buy one immediately, but would like to narrow down the choices.

On the way around the mall, we somehow found ourselves in Forever 21. I've been wearing my cream open cardigan almost every day (it's a great cardigan to study in), so when I was heading towards the check out line to buy this sweater (it's super soft and long enough on me!) and saw that it came in maroon too, I was torn. I rarely buy duplicates of items, but I like the cream version so much, and I knew that I would actually wear it all the time (and actually do that, not just say it), so I bought it as well. I used to really hate open cardigans, but I've completely changed my mind on them, especially the thicker sweater kind. It's like wearing a snuggie, but a socially acceptable one. I'm always a little bit torn on shopping at Forever 21 though. While filled with heaps of super trendy items a la the lip sweater seen all over the blogosphere, they also have some great "staple" pieces that I wear over and over again. The quality is totally hit or miss, but I've had pretty good luck with their knits, even though I'm always a bit sheepish to admit where they're from. I know that they've also had some issues with copying of smaller designers, so it's a constant internal battle of inexpensive clothing versus being a better consumer.

We went into Gap looking for a winter jacket for Chris, but of course made a quick trip to the women's section. I've been admiring Whitney and Dotty's black and white geometric shoes, so when I saw this awesome herringbone pair, I marched them straight to the cash register. Chris says they look like carpet (may be true) but I think they are awesome, and I don't own any printed shoes (does leopard count?) so I'm really excited about them. Like most Gap shoes, they'll require some breaking in, but that's nothing a little buffer stick can't take care of. I also spotted this sweater dress, which is a total dupe of the Madewell version, so if you've had your eye on the more expensive version (as seen on Dotty, Erika, all the cool kids), this may be a great alternative for winter as it's fleece lined. I wish the sleeves were not so capped sleeved (never my friend) or else I would totally have tried it on. 

Of course there was more than just shopping, including delicious Mexican food, arcade game playing, and late night pizzas for watching Miley on SNL. Driving away from each other was a lot easier this time than it was when I first left because I knew I was returning to good people, and because I know that I'll get to see him in 6.2 weeks (at Thanksgiving. No I don't have a countdown. Okay, yes I do.)

Jeans: Kut from the Kloth via Nordstrom Rack

Tee: Everlane [exact - reviewed here]

Belt: Gap [current color]

Shoes: Banana Republic c/o Chippmunk [exact]

Bag: Coach [very similar style]

Bracelet: c/o Apple of My Eye

Watch: Target

via instagram

fall // mustard // psl

 

So this past weekend, the weather cooled down and it was amazing. I slept with the windows open and woke up all snuggled under the covers - the best feeling (besides waking up cuddling next to someone but ya know...LDR). I wore jeans and a scarf while outside! And while I didn't drink a PSL because as much as I love pumpkin everything else, I'm not a fan of them in coffee, but everyone else was achatter about them so...yay PSL season! 

I love fall (because I am a blogger and a walking cliche). Maroon is my favorite color to wear, and even though for the first 24 years of my life I never ever wore mustard (because I'm a blondie and I thought it clashed), I am now just a little bit obsessed. I was just looking to see what other mustard cardigans are out there when I found this one. While I don't know how practical a short sleeved cardigan is...something about the style is saying "Buy me Fran! Spend your fall budget on me! Think how cute I'll be with your new striped shirt!"...so...thoughts? Mustard, grey, walk away slowly? 

Also, it is now back up to 90 degrees here so...that's not so awesome. 

Cardigan: thrifted

Blouse: Everlane

Skirt: thrifted

Shoes: J.Crew Factory [exact]

Bag: c/o Hobo Bags [exact]

Watch: Target [similar]

Bracelet: c/o Apple of My Eye

More Anthropologie...

neutrals like whoa

Last week during a particular weak moment of anatomy sadness, I ordered a few things from Gap during one of their 40% off sales. I originally just planned on ordering this polka dot button up, but then this cardigan caught my eye. A tan cardigan has been on my "holes in my closet" list for so long, that I figured I had nothing to lose since I would have to return at least part of the order in store anyway (I was ordering the button up in two sizes). When the package arrived a few days later, I didn't even take the button ups out of the package - the polka dots were neon, and I knew there was no way I was going to ever wear the shirt. 

The cardigan, on the other hand, is a keeper. I've felt myself pulled towards more neutrals lately anyway- I think they are not only super versatile, but I feel there's just something so pulled together about a neutral outfit/closet. With my cognac shoes, belt, and bag (which is now available online!), I felt like it just all fell together so easily. My girl Lauren has talked at length about how she's transitioning towards an all neutral closet (also see this and this post!) and I'm so inspired by that. Neutrals don't have to be boring as long as you keep it interesting with texture and accessories. I don't see myself getting rid of the color in my closet, but I would like to make my closet as versatile as possible, piece by piece.

Cardigan: Gap [exact - use code GAPEARLY to get it for 30% off]

Pants: The Limited [exact]

Tee: Everlane

Belt: Gap [same style]

Bag: Target [exact]

Watch: Target

Shoes: Banana Republic c/o Chippmunk [exact]

summer fun with chippmunk

I'm thrilled that I was asked to be a Chippmunk's Expert Shopper - you guys know I'm all about their expert shopper competitions and coupon codes, so it's a great fit for both of us! I was provided with $100 to put together an outfit for a summer - read all about my steals below!

To put together a fun summer outfit on a budget, I used Chippmunk to see what great deals I could find for purchases under $100. Banana Republic was running a 40% off everything sale, and as I love their quality of clothing, I was sold! I found this adorable ponte knit skirt that was on sale for $69, plus the additional 40% off coupon found on Chippmunk brought it down to $42. It's great for hanging out with friends in the summer grilling or maybe down by the lake, but can also be dressed up for school or work. The shape is flattering, the colors are perfect for summer, and the price was right! The flats are an item I've had my eye on for months, and I used the 40% off coupon to bring them down to $60 - they are real leather, are one of my closet colors, and will definitely be a staple. 

Are you interested in participating in the current Chippmunk Expert Shopper Contest? It's super easy, and if you win, you could win up to $100! Anything to get a little bit more out of your budget. I used my winnings from the first contest to purchase my favorite new blazer - what have you had your eye on that you would love to win? Here's how to enter:

1. Upload your steal via our website here

2. Share your steal via Instagram or Twitter with hashtag #chippmunkExpertShopper and answer three things : (a) how much you saved and where you go it at (b) why you love it and (c) your advice to other shoppers at that store

3. Repin your favorite steal on Pinterest with hashtags  #summerfun #chippmunkExpertShopper

good luck!! I can't wait to see what steals you've found recently!

Tee: Everlane

Skirt: Banana Republic c/o Chippmunk [exact]

Shoes: Banana Republic c/o Chippmunk [exact]

Belt: Gap [current style]

Necklace: Ann Taylor Outlet

Watch: Target [similar]

Bracelet: c/o Apple of My Eye 

Nails: Essie Marshmellow

i know what boys like...

 

...and apparently it's not in this outfit.

The whole dressing for your man/dressing for others thing has been played out a thousand times on the internet, but I never really thought about it until yesterday when Chris took one look at my outfit and asked me why I was dressed like such a hippie in my "camping shirt, JHORTS, and Jesus sandals". 

I didn't particularly think I looked like a hippie. I was excited to wear my new shIrt (which, btw, doesn't look this wrinkly in real life) and for a warm day walking around Madison, shorts and comfortable sandals only made sense. I suppose that I don't really dress for my man, or really anybody else. I'm the one who has to wear the clothes, which I think takes precedence over other people merely looking at them, but I don't want people to have a bad reaction to them either. We all know boys "don't get it" most of the time, and I'm not offended that Chris may not have liked my outfit that day because he usually does, but it does make me wonder....who are you dressing for?

Shirt: Vera Moda Germany [save | splurge]

Shorts: Gap Outlet

Sandals: Target [exact]

Watch: Target [even better similar]

Bracelet: c/o Apple of My Eye

also...Audrey was in town yesterday! 

on dressing for the blog

 

I've been blogging for a little over a year now. I've always wanted the blog to help me figure out my sense of style and how I want the pieces in my closet to come together, but I didn't want to change my style for the blog. Especially over the last year, I never put on outfits because I knew I was going to take pictures, but I took pictures because I (mostly) liked what I was wearing. Seeing my outfits every day has made me realize what I like, what I don't like, and what I think I want to look like. I don't buy trends just to be trendy, and I don't buy clothing just because it would be good for the blog. I buy something because I like it and because I believe it fits into my life and with the items in my closet. Some outfits make it on the here, some don't, and that's okay. Because I dress for my life and "for me", it makes it a lot easier to get dressed because there's no pressure.

Except yesterday. 

I was lucky to be asked by 2 Girls, 2 Cities to take part in their monthly challenge, which this month happens to be neon. Bri's Third Thursday Thread link up this month is also neon, and she even jokingly called me out and told me I had to take part in it. YOU GUYS. You know how I feel about neon, but it seems it's a trend that just won't quit and it seems to be coming from all angles. So yesterday I stood in front of my closet trying to figure out what to wear for both challenges and for a day in Chicago. I probably spent 45 minutes trying to figure out what to wear. I own very little "neon" - in quotes because I don't even really have anything true neon, just brighter than normal. I tried a brighter orange tee with my new black and white skirt. I tried my Old Navy striped top. I tried looking through my donate box of clothing to see if I couldn't dig something out to wear. It was so frustrating because I wasn't comfortable in anything I put on. I didn't want to look like a try-hard down in Chicago, I didn't want to be wear something I didn't like, and I didn't want to be super boring. Eventually I convinced myself that these shorts were relatively bright enough but then I didn't know what to wear with it. I didn't want to wear another tee because I didn't want it to appear on the blog like all I own is white or black t-shirts. I didn't want to wear my teal sandals because I just showed those on the blog in the previous post. I didn't know what kind of jewelry would look best in pictures.

on the blog. in pictures. on the internet. for other people.

And eventually I reminded myself that I dress for my life, and not for the blog. So I put on the outfit I felt the most comfortable in, drove down to Chicago, and had a great afternoon walking around Wicker Park getting a sun burn, thrift shopping, and enjoying an evening of guacamole making and tipsy gossiping. 

and it was wonderful and no one cared what I was wearing :)

Tee: Everlane

Shorts: J.Crew Factory [exact]

Shoes: Target [similar]

Watch: Target [similar]

Bracelet: c/o Apple of My Eye Jewelry [exact]

five

I found this vintage blazer at Goodwill a few weeks ago, and it luckily had the color tag of the weekend, so it only cost me $4. I hesitate to call things vintage because really, who knows, but I feel this one is definitely from a previous generation. The quality is great, the lining is beautiful, and the buttons are real leather. The label says Justin Ltd, but that doesn't mean anything to me or google. 

I wanted to wear it for one of my last days of work because once I'm done (four more days!), almost all of my cold weather/high AC clothing is being packed up to be shipped to me at the end of July. I was hoping that my nude wedges would have gotten here in time so that I could wear my new jeans but no such luck. I'm going to miss my colder weather clothes just because I like them a lot more than my almost non existant summer items. I did go to Old Navy the other day though specifically to find shorts similar to Whitney's, and got lucky when I found this pair and this pair. Both were on clearance, and less than $7 each in store. With some left over giftcard money, I only spent $5 in the store. 

You guys are going to get so sick of seeing them this summer.

Blazer: thrifted [similar-ish]

Tee: Tahara via TJ Maxx

Jeans: Joe's Jeans [same style]

Belt: Madewell [exact on sale]

Shoes: Nine West [save | splurge]

Bag: Coach via Etsy [current style]

Nails: Essie Spagetti Strap

Watch: Target [MK knock off version]

the light this morning was so pretty...

one year of budgetting: a slap on the wrist / pat on the back

I purchased this anchor belt last summer, and I think it may have been the smartest purchasing decision I made those months. If I look back to what I actually did purchase a year ago (May/ June/ July), I'm not really wearing those items any more (except this belt of course). I was making a lot of impulse purchases, not thinking about what I wanted my style to be, and what I wanted in my closet. I wasn't thinking about how I could re-wear items, how they fit on my body, and if the trends were something I wanted to spend my money on.

I started working with a budget a year ago, and I've definitely learned a lot since then. I've sold or donated most of the items from a year ago actually, and it makes me angry that I wasn't better about shopping then. I'm no where near a perfect shopper now, and I still make shopping mistakes, but I do feel like my purchases are adding something to my closet other than just another item I won't own a year from now. Between my list of items I would like to add, and understanding my preferred style better, I feel the purchases I've made recently won't end up in someone else's closet by this time next year. For example, my new nude flats have already been worn three times this week. They were something I identified was missing in my closet, I took the time looking for a quality pair that is comfortable (which these are! they were comfortable from the second I put them on and have required absolutely no breaking in, which is a first for me), and now I feel I could wear them everyday.

I still have a lot to learn about being a smart shopper, especially with the transition my wardrobe is going to take in the coming months, but I'm proud of where I am now as compared to a year ago.

Blouse: J.Crew Factory [exact]

Skirt: thrifted

Belt: Madewell [exact on sale]

Tights: Target

Shoes: Sam Edelman [exact]
Necklace: Forever 21 [exact]

Earrings: Ralph Lauren [exact]

Watch: Target [save | dream]
Nails: Essie Fifth Avenue + Julep Oscar

downside of taking your own pictures: no one around to tell you your necklace is all wanky.

a neon moment + [giveaway]

 

I'm wearing neon.

Okay, so when neon first came around in this decade, this is how I felt about it:

But now I'm more like this:

Ok, only a slight exaggeration. I can see the appeal though, especially when it comes as a $6 tee. I doubt that I'll buy anything else neon because one item is enough, but I intend to wear the heck out of this shirt this summer. 

I guess I should never say never. What's next, wedge sneakers?! 

Tee: Old Navy [exact on clearance]

Jeans: American Eagle [exact]

Shoes: Aldo [save | splurge]

Watch: Target

Bracelet: gift from Caroline :)

And for today's moment that doesn't include awesome Saved by the Bell gifs, the pups and I went over to fellow Madison blogger Dani's for a puppy play date with her adorable dog Walter. We had a a great time hanging out on their beautiful porch, eating, drinking, and chatting about both life and blogging. Dani blogs at Life's a Journal and also has an Etsy shop where she sells these so smart notepads. She was so sweet and gave me one to try out. I think I'm going to save the majority of them for when school starts but seriously, how smart of an idea is this? It organizes your whole life for you, down to how many glasses of water to drink. If you are interested in trying one out, you can get 10% off your order with the code FranFan (awesome right?) or you can try to win one with the rafflecopter below!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

fixations

 

You guys. Remember how in my April Budget post I said that I had ordered this Gap blazer online because I wanted it in a "tall", and because they were having a 30% already reduced items promotion? Well, it came yesterday and I'M IN LOVE I'M IN LOVE and I don't care who knows it! It is so cute. It's that bright and fun blazer I wanted when I ordered this floral blazer, but it's going to be so much more versatile and actually wearable. I feel so content with this purchase, a feeling I didn't have when I ordered that Zara blazer. I'm really excited to wear it!

Okay, so now about today's actual topic: things that make me uncomfortable. I don't know how much this qualifies, but I'm a person who fixates on repetitive motions or sounds, which annoys me and therefore makes me uncomfortable. Does that make sense? For example: pen clickers. or people who twirl their hair. or foot tappers. or whistlers. or even worse, hummers. I get so distracted by those motions or out of place noises that I just fixate on them and how much I hate it, and I just want to crawl out of my skin. In college there was a girl in my physiology class who always happened to sit in front of me no matter where I sat, and she was a hair twirler. I always had to hold up a notebook to shield my eyes. I would sometimes even "accidentally" kick her chair to see if it would startle her out of the twirling. It never worked.

There you have it, people of the internet. I am a crazy person.

Shirt: Forever 21* [similar]

Cardigan: NY&Co.

Jeans: American Eagle [exact]

Glasses: c/o Firmoo

Necklace: Forever 21 [exact - I'd love the silver too!]

Watch: Target

Shoes: Tory Burch [save | exact]

*This shirt used to have sleeves, but it's also from Forever 21...which means the quality isn't always the most reliable. It lasted a good 6 months but then the sleeves just started to tear on the cuffs. I cut off the sleeves and it's now a great layering shirt :)

via Instagram.

Also, this outfit is a direct copy of this pin. I knew it would be the perfect inspiration for the Pantone Color Challenge!