Girly Girl Inclinations

I hope each and every one of you had a wonderful Christmas, holiday and Happy New Year! After some time off from blogging, I'm feeling rejuvenated. I had time to enjoy spending time with my family, and catching up on some of the things I don't get to do too often due to work, life, etc. But I'm not complaining!

For my first outfit post of 2014, I wanted to share an outfit that represents some of the things that make me feel... happy to be a girly girl.

First, dresses always mean instant girly goodness, and this red skater dress from Boohoo is chock full of twirling goodness. Love the banding on the waist and hem.

Second, I need my sparkle. When it comes to statement necklaces, my thoughts are the bigger, bolder, brighter, the better. Maybe I was Elizabeth Taylor in another life because like her, I can't get enough of jewelry in all forms. 

And lastly, wearing loud prints is an instant mood booster. If the weather is s%^&&#, I try to wear something a little loud, or busy. Plus, I tend to have edgy inclinations towards leather and rocker-inspired pieces. These animal print BCBGeneration booties are a departure from my basic black shoes, and any chance I can mix them with another print, I will.  

Vegan Leather and Ponte Jacket - Blank NYC, purchased at South Moon Under  /  Red and Black Skater Dress - c/o Boohoo.com / Knit Black Leggings - H&M / BCBGeneration Animal Print  Secret B Booties - sold out, but here's a pair just like em / Isla Bonita Jewel Strand Necklace - c/o Prima Donna / Studded Crossbody Bag - Forever 21

THE FINALE - 30 Day Shopping Challenge is over!!!

I DID IT!!!!

Outfit:

Dress - Forever 21

Necklace - Mandee

Gladiator Sandals - Target

Even Harley's happy!

After 30 long days, I'm happy to say that I completed my No Shopping Challenge, and I'm now ready to burn a hole in my wallet! There were lots of trying times - times when I really just wanted to go shopping out of stress, frustration and sheer boredom, but, I hung in there and now I'm ready to jump back into my favorite sport! However, this has taught me how to save significantly, and in the future, I will be more conscious of budgeting my money and spending habits.

To some, it may be sad that I take so much joy in shopping. It's not always about buying myself something just to do it. Sometimes it's about treating yourself because your down in the dumps and need a pick me up... Or you reward yourself for working hard or for accomplishing something. Plus, I will say that as a fashion blogger, sometimes the pressure is on to look your best - and when nothing in your closet will do the trick, you turn to other blogs and see what everyone else is wearing... and it inspires you to go shopping!

But now, the serious stuff...

I've been thinking about my plan of attack for Shopapooloza 2011, and the itinerary looks a little like this:

What you see above is the actual Willowbrook Mall in Wayne, NJ's map. This operation is going into affect at exactly 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, approximately 30 mins away from my job. I've planned out the hunt to a T, including hot zones (1, 2 & 3), a break if necessary and a guestimate of how long it will take in each area.

Area 1 - The target is Forever 21 - the mother-load, if you will.

Area 2 - Multiple hits at Loft, Aldo and Gap - looking for shoes, accessories and tops.

Area 3 - Upper level focusing on H&M, Mandee, Spring Shoes & two open slots (if needed).

And this is just Day 1...

Day #14 - 30 Day No Shopping Challenge - Eye Of The Tiger

Just about half way through the No Shopping Challenge - and I'm sad to say I failed...

... to update the blog last Friday, that is. 

I guess in between watching the Royal Wedding and work, I forgot. I'd be remiss if I didn't mention something about William and Kate (as my husband is from England) - loved her dress. But I think Pippa stole the show.

Welcome to my little slice of Great Britain - the door mat in front of my apartment.

Nope, I still haven't shopped! That's not to say the urge has not been strong. No trips to the mall either. My friends have been really shocked to hear this as they know how much of a shopping junkie I am.

On Friday, my job was getting rid of some samples during spring cleaning. So, a bunch of stuff was up for grabs - for free. I ended up snatching up a brown bag and three scarves. 

However, the weather is working against me. With warmer temps brings a need for replenishing my wardrobe. Sick of wearing the same duds for the past 4 months, I want shoes, dresses and skirts - shed some skin if you will. So the fact that everyone around me is wearing their new finds to work and for a night out - is making me very jealous. 

I did end up making a trip to the park (affectionately known as The Mud Hole in Nutley, NJ) for a little quality time with Harley and my favorite Brit. Another perk of this conquest is finding hidden treasures, like the shoes I'm wearing below, in my closet. They hurt like hell, but I'll sacrifice my feet for fashion.

Outfit:

Cardigan - Express

Striped Tee - Mandee

Belt - H&M

Jeans - Forever 21

Peep Toe Butterfly Shoes - BCBG

Murano Glass ring - gift from my bestie

Necklace - Harajuku Lovers