Day #9 - 30 Day No Shopping Challenge - Stranger Thread

Until now, browsing websites hasn't bothered me... because I didn't see anything I really wanted. That's changed drastically within the last 48 hours. And it came in the form of pleats.

I'm blaming Loft for this spell of retail envy. I spotted a grey pleated top in their lineup that'd look adorable with jeans or shorts this summer... And I'm now fixated on it. I showed Mike, my husband, after he asked what all the fuss was about . All I got was the "Yes, it's nice, hun," obligatory response, and the additional "but I'm not going to buy this for you" look. Mission failed.

Pfft. I bet she's shopping right now. Available at Loft.

That's low-down desperation right there. Not very proud of myself at the moment.

It's ridiculous how hung up I am on something so trivial;  a grey - probably soft to the touch, would fit me in a small, but if that size wasn't in stock, the extra small would suffice - top. Just in case anyone was wondering.

Shopping is all about getting that fix - that you bought something you're excited about, brought it home and get to style it up... And right now, I'm fix-less. I just have to replace that temporarily with something more productive. Oh, I know - Adam Levine of Maroon 5 being on The Voice last night. That helped.

Then again, the money I'm saving is great - and that's what this is really all about. Oh, and will power, too.

I'm gunna have to start listening to more Say Anything and avoiding my computer during these times. Too tempting. Do I smell a new hobby on the horizon?

Day #7 - 30 Day No Shopping Challenge

Outfit:

Cardigan - Gap

Leopard print shirt - Mandee

Skinny cigarette ankle jeans - Urban Oufitters

Patent leather flats and leather bag - Zara

Tortoise shell sunglasses - Mandee

Leather cuff - Craftacular (purchased last year).

Seven full days of no shopping!!! And my wallet is thanking me. Also, I'm relying on the warm weather to allow me to break out some of my prior purchases I've been holding onto.

Being that gas prices have gone up within the last two weeks, I've been using the money I would have been spending on clothes to fill my tank up.

The weekend was rough, however. I usually hit the mall once during the weekend, and Saturday I was especially antsy. It was raining, and it would have been the perfect opportunity to kill time as my husband was at work. While the idea of window shopping crossed my mine, I knew if I went I'd be too tempted to spend... or at the very least, torture myself with seeing things I want but can't buy... and then feel underwhelmed by the whole experience. So I just avoided it.

I'm not a nun - I have been online browsing. Reading other blogs and finding inspiration from other bloggers and what they wear does make me curious to visit other sites and shop. I keep telling myself that I don't want to have to write a blog post about how I shopped when so many of you have expressed how you're reading and following my trials and tribulations. So I'm sticking it out.

The other hobby I've taken up is going through my clothes and sorting what I'll keep and what I'll donate. Perhaps this is my way of "refreshing" my closet by finding pieces I haven't worn in a while.

Ah the things one will do to obtain a goal.

Friday 5 Day #3 - No Shopping Challenge Edition

I sorta feel like the Bruce Jenner of the No Shopping Olympics. The comments are motivating, so keep 'em coming! When I decided to do this, I figured it was no big deal, but it appears people are really  interested in seeing the outcome.  Either it's because y'all really want me to succeed or would like to see me shop.

And admittingly, the pressure is on to not fail.

Day #3 - No Cravings

So far, so good. Since starting the challenge Tuesday, shopping hasn't crossed my mind. That's probably because I went to the mall Monday and put the challenge into affect that night. And yes, I did buy something - the last hoorah. It was two bath bombs from Lush.

Online browsing hasn't been that heavy. The only sites I viewed were Solestruck.com and LorisShoes.com, after receiving an email about limited edition Jeffrey Campbells....Would I love a pair of his shoes? You bet. But right now (ask me later), I'm not sad that I can't shop. I'll just admire from afar.

The trick that'll carry me the farthest during my shopping exile is my "Reserve Pile." This is collection of clothes, shoes and accessories still sitting in bags in my closet, waiting to be worn. Just think of it as a "Break In Case Of Emergency" type situation.

So, since I'm not spending, here's my Friday 5 of what I would buy if I could. But do me a favor: Don't tell me if you went shopping and snatched up one of my desirables. I might lose it. Especially #4. = P

1. Jeffrey Campbell El-Carmen

Beauties, aren't they? I'm putting this in my "Didn't Shop for 30 Days So Reward Yourself With This" category.

2. The Editor - A Blogging Planner

Photo via http://theeditor.terrablack.com/

I've wanted this planner for some time, and kept putting off getting it. Perhaps one of the most practical purchases a blogger can make, The Editor is ingenious. While I can't purchase, why should I deprive my readers from investing in this life-saving organizational planner? Snatch one up for $25 at http://theeditor.terrablack.com/.

3. A subscription to Nylon

There's nothing like a good read. I've only subscribed to a handful of mags in my time, and Nylon will be next. The way they combine fashion and pop culture in a way that's witty and sometimes urban is just cool. I'd love to work there... <hint hint>.

4. A squirrel monkey

There's a website for everything, and while I think the idea of owning a squirrel monkey is fun, a bit cruel and a little ridiculous, it's obtainable. Proof is in primate - http://www.primatestore.com/forsale.asp.

5.  Hallelu's Must Have Skirt

... Only 27 more days to go....

The 30-Day No Shopping Challenge (God help me)

I always joke that I have a shopping problem. I wouldn't say I spend a lot of money on each individual item, but I do buy multiple pieces at lower prices... which adds up.

On an average, I legit shop at least three times a week which includes during a trip the mall, followed by online shopping, or stopping by a store on the way to do something else. To resist and futile, and I always tell myself,

"I can't go shopping again. I just bought a dress at Urban Outfitters.... and I still didn't receive the order I'm waiting on.... But I did just get paid, and I've worked hard this week, so I'll go and reward myself."

And rewarding oneself is something I firmly believe in. If you work hard and aren't frivolous with your money, why not enjoy the fruits of your labor? Every paycheck. Wait a sec, isn't that called compulsive shopping? Sounds like oniomania to me.

My spending isn't out of control, but I'm starting to notice that what I spend weekly, and in cash, is resulting in more trips to the ATM. I'll buy lunch, put gas in my car... and then get sidetracked by hitting up a store during errands or a lunch break... and spend money I didn't intend to.

Plus, my husband has been giving me "The Look". You know what I'm talking about. It's when you leave your shopping bags out, and he comes home and sees em and asks, "Where'd this come from?" And he gives you this look of "I'm not mad, but I'm starting to notice a gaggle of shopping bags lined up - not to mention all the new s%$# you bought with tags on it hanging in your closet."

So, I'm invoking the No Shopping Challenge for 30 days. I think I can do it <insert fable attempt at lying here>.

Memories... Like the corners of my mind...

The rules for the challenge are as follows.

For the next 30 days, I shall not:
1. Purchase apparel, accessories or clothing of any type for myself. Gifts for family do not count.
2. Use credit cards.
3. Spend money unless it is an absolute necessity - fuel, food, transportation and personal toiletries.
4. Nag my husband into purchasing something for me to get a shopping fix.

Let's see how well this pans out. I'll be blogging throughout the next 30 days about my torture, I mean, progress, so be sure to check back! This should be interesting.

IFB Evolving Influence influenced me!

Remember the IFB Evolving Influence Conference? Well, all the footage gathered by the roaming bloggers is now available at IFB for your viewing pleasure. Check out this one filmed by Nubia of Nubia's Nonsense and features my fellow NYC Fashion Blogger bud Tomeka Steele of FashionSteeleNYC... and me! I was really surprised (and honored) to be a part of the video... and the conference. 

It was only two months ago that I attended. If it wasn't for IFB, I probably wouldn't be improving my blog, making new friend sand perhaps even continuing with the site. I definitely left the conference motivated, and I think the changes I've made to House of Jeffers have been big ones so far... with more to come! A kick swift in the ass was definitely needed, and I really can't boast about this enough. If you have the chance to attend next year, absolutely go. Even if you think you know all you need to about blogs, you will absolutely be blown away by the abundance of knowledge and info you'll get out of the event.

Friday 5 is back!

I decided to bring back Friday 5 as a way to bring a little variety to the blog. I'm sure not all of you want to read about just fashion, and besides,

1. Peacock Plume.com

I stumbled upon PeacockPlume.com off a recommendation from Rebecca of Stylish Year's blog. Located in Texas, the store boasts chic finds and is my new daily visited online shop. I ordered the Black Lattice Dress and when it arrived this week, there was a hand-written note from Holly and Cara.

Black Lattice Dress, available at www.peacockplume.com

I thought that was so sweet of them to take the time to write and for visiting my blog. You don't always get that kind of personalized customer interaction, but it really made my day. So thanks, ladies!

2. Happy Snapper App

I love cheesy apps , and this app let's you put ridiculous stickers on images - allowing you to laugh at the expense of your friends. And, it's free. Download it @ iTunes.

3. L.L. Bean's Signature catalogue
Admittingly, I don't shop at L.L. Bean. And being that I can't plug my flat iron into a tree, I don't do camping, which is the main reason why I never browsed the store either. However, after peeping their new L.L. Bean Signature catalogue, I've converted... but still not going camping. Printed dresses in stripes and florals... all within my budget. Sold.

4. Platform shoes with socks

http://weheartit.com/entry/6992968

Love this look... on everyone else. Not sure how I'd pan out doning this duo. One fashion offense per year people - and I think mine was last week, wearing those harem pants.... 

5. 

My little dude, Harley, when he was only a couple of months old. Tiniest dude, ever.

Luck be a lady

I'm not a big gambler... I stick to losing my money at the slot machines when I go to Atlantic City. Yeah,  you read that right - losing. Being that I don't play poker and I'm not brave enough to risk losing all my money at once at the tables, I stick to the slots. Good thing too, because I only spent $24 at H&M for this dress - and that meant I had more money to spend on my trip. Plus, shoes are a big factor. Ladies, you know what I'm talking bout... I planned ahead and wore these suede mary janes that didn't murder my feet.

Outfit

Dress - H&M

Necklace & bracelet - Mandees

Tights - Target

Shoes - Nine West

So, during a trip with my two besties at Harrah's in Atlantic City, we headed to The Pool - an indoor bubble dome, with, you guessed it, a pool. They add a bunch of mood lights and cabanas, and turn it into one giant safety hazard at night - drunk people walking around the perimeter of a pool. Good, wholesome fun - with the risk of losing your life if you slip and fall into the pool. 

While I lost some of my dough, I think the trip went over well, and not without going home with random stories of the night. Here's some highlights...

That's what she said...

Mango & Marie Claire Night of Style Event

On Friday, I attended the Night of Style event sponsored by Marie Claire at Mango on Broadway in Soho with my friend, Molly.

On display was their Spring/Summer 2011 collection - and I have to admit, the color palette is perfect for the upcoming seasons. Along with a mix of skinny jeans and wardrobe staples like cardigans, tees and tanks, they offer chic dresses in vibrant prints - stripes and florals, my two favorites. Plus, a light shade of peach will definitely be in - and I'm on board. The night offered a contest for $500 to the person who pulled together the best Mango look from the store. Plus, Sephora was on-hand for free makeup consultations and girly goodness.

In between sipping champagne and snacking on some hors d'oeuvre, the ladies of the NYC Fashion Bloggers Meetup group chatted about what it takes to actually run a blog. I'll say that it's nice to know that there are others who understand the kind of work and dedication involved in launching and maintaining a blog. So glad I found this group.

Candy of Taylor and Demolish, Monroe of FashionSteeleNYC and me!

As for my outfit, I was a little hesitant to wear these harem pants. I originally purchased these for my new job, but figured I might as well get it out of the way and wear em - even though I had some reservations. At $13 from Forever 21 they were a steal, but there's just something about having your crotch look like it's down to your knees, and a high-waist pant making me look bloated that leaves me indecisive about the pants. Tucking in the shirt was the right move though. Overall, I felt comfortable in the raining weather.

Outfit:

Leather jacket - Zara

Striped shirt - Forever 21

Harem pants - Forever 21

Shoes - Modcloth.com

Bag - Primark UK

Necklace - Mandees

And I couldn't leave without making a purchase. I'm loving this chunky ring! Since everything at the store was 30% off, I paid $13 bucks for it. It reminds me of an old-school scuba diving helmet. It will definitely get some heavy rotation in my wardrobe!

Five essential items every fashion blogger should have

If you're gunna run a fashion blog and show off your looks, I think there's a couple of wardrobe staples every gal should have. These items aren't just things that I happen to favor - okay, maybe a little. Check out my top five items fashion bloggers should have stocked in their closets.

1. A blazer

Even if you're a lady that loves skirts and dresses, a blazer is versatile enough to go with leggings, shorts and of course, jeans. 

ASOS Tailored Contrast Blazer

I happen to have three - basic black, a beige one and a pink single-breasted blazer with black lapels which is for a dressier look. While it's considered a men's sportswear piece, blazers have come a long way for women as they're made in a variety of shapes with detailing that measures up to a men's equivalent. 

2. Tights

I'm talking good quality tights that are warm enough to rock in the winter, yet light enough to pair with summer looks. And they can be paired with everything - shorts, skirts, dresses. Investing in a couple of good pairs in a variety of colors will pay off in the end - especially during the spring to summer transition. I recommend We Love Colors - it's an amazing site where you can find pretty much any color imaginable.

3. Jeans

Ah, the underdog of fashion blogging - although eatsleepdenim is doing wonders for jeans. Let's face it - the weather doesn't always cooperate, ladies. I know you want to look like a doll and all standing outside for your pics, but I'm not trying to get sick because I didn't do what my mother told me to do - cover my legs when it's cold out.

If you're going to spend the most money on a wardrobe stable, you might as well put it in your pants... I mean, into a denim investment. For me, a pair of perfect fitting jeans is the make or break of an outfit that looks put-together or messy. Find whatever style fits you best and stock up.

4. A Handbag

Photo via http://www.redcarpet-fashionawards.com/2009/12/21/sarah-jessica-parker-loves-her-diane-de-maria-bonnie-bag/

Whether your favorite is Marc by Marc Jacobs (cough cough) or Miu Miu, buying a well-made bag is definitely a long term investment. Depending on the style, your bag of choice will most likely go with anything in your closet, - and unless your rough on it, will be with your for years to come. Sarah Jessica Parker knows what's up - she loves her Bonnie bag.

5. A repeat offender

This is a piece that you love, and that readers identify with being "your style". Whatever it is, I say show it off... over and over again. I think it's great when a blogger takes pride in something that they love and can incorporate it into multiple looks. It's practical and realistic - not all of us have thousands laying around and can shop with carelessness. For me, it's vests... and Harley.

Outfit

Striped sweater - Forever21

Vest - Zara

Jeans - Zara

Shoes - Mandee

Necklace - thrifted

Getting Gorgeous NYC - April 2, 2011

Outfit:

Plaid shirt - Old Navy

Skirt - H&M

Tights - Target

Shoes - Bakers

On Saturday, I had the opportunity to attend the Getting Gorgeous with Degree event, held at the Metropolitan Pavilion in New York. Playing host to sponsors and bloggers alike, the occasion gathered women to check out some new products and mingle with other writers all at once.

The other reason for taking the PATH into the city was to meet up with some of the lovely ladies of the NYC Fashion Bloggers Meetup Group. Among those in attendance were Monroe Steele of FashionSteeleNYC, Nubia of Nubia's Nonsense, Mary of glaMARous, Janique of MyGoodyBag.com and new blogger buddy Pam of Cinderella's Closet. The women of the meetup group are simply awesome, and I can't wait for the next time we all get together!

I arrived at the event and checked out some vendors while waiting for other members to arrive. I couldn't help but notice I was among the few gals who chose to wear a skirt and tights... but my embarrassment at the potential of overdressing was soon quelled when I spotted Pam wearing a similar look... and my fellow bloggers putting me at ease with their take on black tights, as well.

Among the vendors sponsoring the event were Goody, who was raffling gift bags filled with hair accessories, Degree, Hanes, Shopafrolic.com and one of my new favorite vendors, FlipOut Sandals! I gave them a test run once I got home - the flip flops are not only comfortable, but what makes them so unique are interchanging ornaments that you can customize to match your outfit. Can't wait for the weather to get warm to wear em'!

Here's some quick shots from the event!