Resolutions for 2013

P.S. How awesome is that bag?

The Daily Gimme: Embellished Palms Tunic

$148, Free People

I confess that I have purchased an item from Free People in a moment of weakness. It was this comfy cowl-neck sweatshirt tunic that was a size small (!) and made me look skinny. I love that sweatshirt but I still don't like Free People. It's just so . . . hipster. It's like Urban Outfitters for people who have more money and want to look even more like vagrants.

However, I cannot deny the cuteness of this tunic. Yes, it's a bit hippie and Free Love and shit. But the beading on the mesh upper looks so delicate. It looks like something Jasmine would wear--when she's being a princess and not when she's wandering the streets. Also, look how happy the model looks. I would like to be that happy when I'm just standing around.

Nine West Flax Glitter Pumps

$49.99, Nine West

Got these sparkly shoes yesterday in the mail. Like most Nine West shoes, they are TTS, not too high and comfy. And they are so. Damn. Sparkly. I would wear these with a party dress for a New Year's Eve party or with dark wash skinnies and a embellished tank/tee for a night out.

A few glitter pieces had fallen off in the box, and a teeny bit rubbed off when I was trying them on, but overall the glitter stuck pretty well. Additionally, there is a thin line of white leather that runs around the shoe, which prevents any part of your skin from touching (and being cut by) the glitter.

I got them on sale from 6pm, but they are sold widely online elsewhere. Because these shoes aren't something you can wear all the time, I didn't feel like spending very much on them.

The Daily Gimme: Beatrice Pant

$189.50, Club Monaco

I am not a pants person. First, it's the principle of the matter. Why do we need to wear pants? Second, they're just not super comfortable. If skirts are good enough for the Scots, they're good enough for me. However, I LOVE these pants. 

They are dark, and we all know that people with stubby legs (read: me) need dark pants. They have a delightful, yet subtle, plaid pattern that makes them special. They have a wonder leather waistband that is kind of like wearing a belt, but without all the dreadful hassle of wearing a belt. They have nice exposed zipper pockets, which would probably not puff out like a lot of pockets do.

Unfortunately, they are that awkward ankle length that's so in right now, but since I'm short, they will probably be half an inch too long and I will have to spend $8 to get them hemmed. Also, ankle length pants really only look good with heels, and even though I have dozens of pairs, I really only like wearing my Rainbows and flats.

Either way, I'm not spending nearly two hundred buckaroos on a pair of pants. Let's hope they go on sale soon.

Review: Physicians Formula Correcting Powder

$13.95, drugstore.com

At first I liked this powder. And then I didn't. I was impressed by its neato swirl of colors that promised to correct the various discolorations on my face. And it does make your face a more even color. The problem is that the new color is a white-ish color that makes me look like Mulan when she was about to meet the Matchmaker.

Daily Gimme: Michael Kors Chain Bracelet Chronograph Watch

$225, Nordstrom

The sales are on. Unfortunately, this particular piece is not on sale. I used to never wear watches, because I had a cell phone and didn't like dealing with extra accessories. However, when I needed to start interviewing, I learned that watches apparently made you look professional and like you were "aware of time." I dunno. 

Anyway, I have a two Michael Kors watches now and I like them both. I saw a girl wearing this particular watch the other day and I thought it looked really nice and classy. This would be a good addition to my collection, since it's smaller and more feminine. Most of my watches have been "boyfriend-style", since I am not one of those girls with really slim wrists. You know what I'm talking about.

Review: Josie Maran's Argan Luscious Lips

$16, Sephora

I first got into argan oil when a hair stylist in Chicago used Moroccan Oil on my hair. I loved how it smelled and how it seemed to slow the inevitable onset of split ends. Josie Maran is famed for introducing argan oil to all other aspects, especially the face. While I have yet to try putting argan oil on my face (I have a trial-size bottle waiting in the medicine cabinet), I did try this argan lip oil. It came in an adorable set that is unfortunately no longer available.  I have to say, that I am not impressed.

The Daily Gimme: Joy Pumps

$99, Nine West

Argh. It's hard to have a Daily Gimme when you are shopping all the time. Not that I'm complaining . . . I will update y'all on the holiday buying frenzy in a bit. I also have a spankin' new camera, so I might even be able to post some real photos. 

I like these pumps because they are like cowboy boots but in pump form. They would be cute peeking out from under jeans (skinny and boot cut) and would also be nice for a casual Friday look with a shirt-dress. They are like something a high-class Nashville hooker would wear and that appeals to me.

I purchased a pair of pumps this year from Boutique 9, which is like the upscale version of Nine West. The shoes were fairly comfortable and very cute. However, I don't feel like they were worth $100, so I am going to wait for these to go on sale before I pull the trigger.

The Daily Gimme: Monocle

£ 80 per year, Monocle

I want this super pretentious "Global Briefing." Apparently it's for out-of-touch rich people who travel a lot. Umm . . .Yes. 

In other news . . .

Purple Paisley Pumps

Two outfits that I would wear if I had anywhere to go or anything to do. Those purple pumps are from Target for only $29.99!! They are super comfy (no seriously) and cute. Also, since they're so inexpensive, I can wear them even in mucky situations. I am considering buying them in more colors, such as red or blue. Generally, I've had really good experience with Target shoes. They are on trend and inexpensive and not uncomfortable. 

In other news, I've started a new show--Hart of Dixie. It's awesome-terrible. Everyone should watch it. 

The Daily Gimme: Sophie Printed Clutch

$129.59 70, Club Monaco

I'm back, baby! Two outlines, two exams and millions of brownies later, I am (sort of) done with my penultimate semester of schooling ever. It was pretty terrible, I was so pressed for time during my last outline I couldn't even online shop. It's okay though, because I have quite a few Gimmes backlogged in my life.

To be honest, I have never really carried a clutch in my life, outside of a wedding situation. They just seem like something I would set down and forget about. However, with a clutch as vibrant and beautiful as this one, I'm sure I wouldn't forget it. Also, it's made of silk, so I'm sure the color and pattern will pop even more in real life.

I also like how this could easily transition from day to night. It would look very cute with a LBD at a more casual party/evening out and also really cute with some jeans, a plain white shirt and some flats. It's already on sale, but I'm going to wait it out and see if the price drops some more.

The Daily Gimme: Origami Sheath Dress

$158, J. Crew

I was *this* close to buying this dress during the 30% off sale today. But I decided to exercise some self-restraint in the hopes it will go on even MOAR sale after the holidays. Even though I have not officially started working, I have been collecting work wear for the past three years. See, I will be wearing this shit for the next 40 years (give or take a few decades, if I strike oil), so might as well start buying early. (Early and often is my motto for shopping.)

But, come October of next year, I am going to be busting out the dresses and suits. I think that this would be an excellent addition to my work wardrobe. I like the classic silhouette and professional color that will never, ever go out of style. I like the slight nipped-in waist (which is just dying for a colorful skinny belt) and the slight flare at the hips. But, of course, the focus of this masterpiece is the asymmetrical folding at the collar. Here is some unique dress construction that doesn't require a weird bra or a cardigan to be decent at the office. The detail adds just the right amount of personality to a work dress. 

I wonder if it could be worn with a blazer; I suspect it would but I worry that the folds might look a bit funny. Also, I think this dress (like most) would be vastly improved if it had some pockets.

The Daily Gimme: Supercalifragilipstick

$24 each, kate spade

I have never used up a single tube of lipstick, lip balm, lip gloss or lip anything. True story. I just accumulate them like some kind of make-up hoarder. I think more than any other type of make-up, a quick swipe of lipstick can change your face. It can make you look more professional and sophisticated instantly. Also, as someone who has chapped lips that peel, having lipstick on reminds me to stop peeling the patches of skin from my lips (I know, ick).

I haven't tried any of these lipsticks from Kate Spade, but they're so cute. I normally don't like it when brands try to be cheeky with packaging or slogans, but these are pretty funny. They are a bit pricey though, and I have no idea about the quality. Sure, you can drop some money on YSL or Dior lipstick, but this is a brand that makes handbags. What does Kate know about lipstick? The reviews on the website aren't exactly glowing either.

But I just don't care. I want a tube just because they look awesome. So far, there are six shades to choose from. I like the Parisian Pink, which is linked above, or also this Pop Art Pink.

Mr. UPS Man, Where Are You?

$250 119, amazon

Y'all, I'm waiting for these shoes to come. They are the sole beacons of light in this dreary day. I got them on sale off of Gilt, but I had to order a half-size larger than I normally wear. I'm hoping that the reviews about tightness/small toe box are accurate. However, I figured that with the ankle strap, and maybe some gel heel backs and some petals, these shoes could actually fit very well. I just couldn't turn down half-price Pour La Victoire shoes, especially the exact ones I've been wanting. 

Anyway, we will see how they look/feel when they come! 

The Daily Gimme: Wunder Under Pants in Sparkle

$82, lululemon

I tried yoga once. It was terrible. The room was hot and stuffy, everything smelled like feet and too many people were unshaven, unwashed and unattractive. So I never did it again and I don't really plan on giving it a second chance. However, that doesn't stop me from buying up yoga pants like a fat kid buying yesterday's donuts. 

Things Every Online Retailer Should Have

I have been on a lot of shopping sites lately, since that's what I do when I'm "studying". However, not all sites are created equal. I've decided that the items below are something that every site should have:

• A "find at store" option. And the inventory should be updated at least every 24 hours (if not even more frequently).
• Free shipping and returns. I know that this is built into the price of the merchandise for the stores that do offer this service, but honestly, is you restocking fee really $9.95? That's ridiculous. Also, include a free return label. I am willing to buy more stuff if I know I can try it out in the comfort of my own home and return it for free. 
• Include the model's measurements. This is especially important for things like bags (they can overwhelm a petite frame) or for coats (the hemline is important, since coats are difficult to get tailored). Also, including the weight and height for each size is very helpful. (Who actually measures themselves?)
• Restock dates. At the very least, tell me if an item is *not* going to be restocked, so I can give up on it forever. 
• Number of items left. Sometimes I like to mull a decision over before I purchase. Not knowing how many of an item/size is left makes me feel harried and grouchy. 
• Pan-over zoom. And it should be a good one. The enlarged image should not be on top of the original image, because then it's difficult to tell where your cursor is. Also, there should be no pop-ups. Ever. And, you should have this feature available for all the images of the item. Yes, sometimes I would like a close zoom of back.
• Click and drag. Similarly, I like the virtual closet feel of clicking and dragging the image so you can see it from 360 degrees. I always feel like retailers are trying to hide something when they only show the front and back and not the sides.
• White clothes should not be photographed on a white background. 'Nuff said.
• Reviews. They really help. 
• No music. Some of us are in class and forget to turn our speakers off, yo.

I don't think I'm asking for too much here. A bad website really makes me not want to frequent your online store or your real store. Also, for those of you who are disappointed that this was just a wall of text . . .

The Daily Gimme: Wool Double Face Coat

$998, Brooks Brothers

Yes! I am alive! To make up for a lack of Gimme yesterday, today's Gimme costs mucho dinero. I am a coat person, but I never like spending very much on one coat, even though I should. I think coats are excellent investments because their shapes/colors rarely change throughout the seasons and, if properly taken care of, they can last forever. Also, coats are pretty much your ONLY outfit during a large chunk of the winter months, and thus should be the first thing you spend money on. For me, coats are in the same category as handbags and shoes--you will have it forever, so you might as well splurge.

Bucolic Belle Dress from Modcloth

dress: $52.99 39.99, Modcloth; shoes: $99, Guess

Just in time for the holidays.. .

The Daily Gimme: Urban Decay Naked Palette

$50, Sephora

The Holiday Gimme: 2012 Gift Guide

I am pretty exacting when it comes to presents. I don't necessarily return things that people buy me that I don't like, but I am definitely a re-gifter. Honestly, it's better to give someone some cold hard cash than to give him or her solid proof that you know nothing about him or her. E.g., Lotion? Unless it is L'Occitane or something really effing expensive, don't bother. While I also like the occasional homemade gift (candy, jams, cookies), they smack of homemade production line cooking and should never be given as a sole present. We get it, you're cheap. 

If, you find yourself needing to buy a present for someone who has embraced materialism and capitalism as much as I have, then here are some present suggestions that are on my own personal wishlist. I chose the items that can be purchased for anyone on the girlfriend-relative-coworker spectrum, and that doesn't require intimate knowledge of someone's size.

Review: Fresh Lotus Eye Gel

$48, Sephora

I've been using this stuff for a few months now (five-ish) and I'm not sure it does anything. Sure it feels a bit cool and tingly when you put it on, but I've noticed no real difference or improvement. To be fair, my almost-daily naps take care of most dark circles and I'm not yet at an age where I have to worry abut crow's feet. However, I do get occasional puffiness and some bagginess under my eyes, especially on Monday mornings.  Unfortunately, I don't see any changes when it comes to these problem areas.

I plan on trying out some new eye creams, because this one just isn't cutting it. On the plus side, it doesn't smell weird and absorbs relatively quickly. You also get a lot of product for your money; I have used maybe a third of it. If you only use it during the am or pm, it could easily last someone a year. Unfortunately, this pro is more of a con for me, since I feel bad about shoving this into the bottom of my "I'll use it eventually cosmetic/lotion/hair product bin" otherwise known as "the place where things go to get lost and for Scot to curse loudly." Seriously, I found *three* full floss containers in there the other day.

I love pretty much all fresh products and I will keep buying them, especially their lip stuff. However, I think I am going to give some other brands a try in the eye cream department. Next up on the list is Dr. Brandt's dark circles away. 

The Daily Gimme: Travel More, Work Less T-Shirt

$28, MNKR

You actually can have too many t-shirts. I'm constantly getting rid of them or turning them into t-shirt blankets. However, this is one I would like to add to my collection. I like the message, I like the red on white contrast, I like the cute cursive with the block print. Although this shirt borders on hipster, I think if you leave the Warby Parker glasses and awkward beanie at home, it would be fine.

In other news, H&M will soon let you exchange old clothes for discounts. Pretty cool. Read more about it here.

Studying with the Totes Adorb Cat

Just so that you guys don't think that law school is all shits and giggles, here are the reading materials for one class:

Why yes, Stella is wearing a fabulously festive Christmas bowtie with little jingle bells on it. Thanks for asking.

The Daily Gimme: Prada Saffiano Lux Tote

$1,730, Neiman Marcus

Guys. This is it. This is the dream bag. This summer, when I was flush with cash, and surrounded by Richie Rich's in London, I thought of splurging on a bag. Then I remembered about income taxes and decided not to. If I had purchased a bag, this would be the one. I'm not saying that this will be the only bag in my life; I'm not sure I'll ever be bag-monogamous. (After all, there's YSL & Marc Jacobs & Miu Miu . . .) But if I had to pick--if I had to be buried with only one bag--it would be this one.

That being said, it feels a bit trite to put this as a Daily Gimme. Daily Gimme's are passing fancies--something shiny that catches my magpie eye. And THIS BAG is not that. I could write odes to this bag. If Dido had this bag, she wouldn't have needed Aeneas. If Heloise had this bag, Abelard would still have his junk. If Ophelia had this bag, she wouldn't have needed to be fished out of the river. I felt that I had to share this bag with everyone today, because I'm going to start studying for my second-to-last set of finals (ever) today. And this bag is what I'm outlining for.

Review: Physicians Formula Happy Booster Blush

$11.95, drugstore.com

The name of this blush is actually longer than what my blog title suggests. It's called: Physicians Formula Happy Booster Glow & Mood Boosting Blush. That seems a bit redundant, but I don't have an degree in cosmetics-naming, so I have to defer to the experts. I purchased this blush in the Warm color (they also have Rose, Natural and Pink). I don't know what kind of mumbo jumbo in this blush that is supposed to make you happy, but it's probably unnecessary. Just look at how cute the blush is. It's little *hearts* of blush. This is a prime example of Totes Adorb.

The Daily Gimme: Pure Linen Long Night Wear on Etsy

$50, etsy

You guys, today's Daily Gimme is really testing my shopping ban. First of all, I love night gowns. They make you feel so feminine and pretty and like you really have your shit together. You have clothes just for sleeping! Princesses wear night gowns! You are presentable even when no one is looking! If Dr. Chase as a firefighter came in to rescue you from a burning apartment, he would be smitten! (Mebs not.) Anyway, I really like this long linen night gown. I like the simplicity, the side slits, the lace, the all-season linen and just about everything else.

This entire etsy store is pretty awesome and I want lots of different pieces: 1.) For a weird/amishy Big Love type of nightgown, or a 2.) minimalist clean look with robe, or a 3.) pair of cute shorts that can be worn as PJs or as bloomers under a billowy skirt on a windy day, or a 4.) cropped pajama top that is just shy of doll-like. Sigh. I just want it all. I want it all. And I want it now.

The Daily Gimme: Triple Bow Stretch Belt

$48, White House Black Market

In an effort to curb reckless online shopping, I have a list of items I feel like my closet is lacking. Before buying anything online, I like to ask if it is on my list. If not, then I try not to buy the item, unless it is *so* unique and *such* a good deal that I feel like I would regret not buying. (I sound crazy.) Anyway, one of the items that has been on my list for months is a large, black leather bow belt. This one really fits the bill. The only reason I'm not pulling the trigger on this is because I've recently declared a shopping moratorium and also this belt is not exactly perfect.

It's a tad pricey for something I would buy for myself, especially considering it's just a belt (and a lot of my belts sit unworn). Also, I'm worried it's too structured and perhaps a floppier bow would look better. Maybe one day I will give up and buy it, but maybe one day I will find an even more perfect one. You never know.

Introducing the Totes Adorb Cat

Because I am trying to avoid all of my homework on a Sunday night, I present to you, Totes Adorb Cat:

She suffers from: agoraphobia, acrophobia, pygmachophobia, aquaphobia, ailurophobia, xenophobia, spectrophobia and phonophobia, among others.

Cafe at the Crest Sweater from Modcloth

sweater: $72.00, Modcloth (similar here); boots: $139.95, DSW; ring: $50, Amrita Singh; earrings: $58, zappos

Guys, my mailman delivered a package today . . . on Sunday. WTF? Anyway, today I had to wake up early to drive Scot to the airport. I got back home at around 7:45, but instead of going back to sleep, I decided I was going to watch all the episodes of Grimm in my queue and play Warcraft instead. Then, I made a 1hr45min trip out to Chelmsford, to visit Gene's Chinese Flatbread Cafe. I am pretty sure there is crystal meth in their food because it's the only way to explain how good it is.

But anyway, if I wasn't such a scrub and didn't just sit around in sweatpants all day, this is the outfit I would have worn. I actually ordered this Modcloth sweater and returned it the first time, because I wasn't sure I could hack the poncho shape. However, I really, really wanted a creamy cable knit sweater that didn't have the cable knit pattern running on the arms (because that makes me look bulky). After combing the internet (thanks polyvore!), it seemed like this really was the best option. I had to size down with this sweater, otherwise I looked like I was being swallowed.

I would pair the sweater with my Gap skinny jeans, my dark brown riding boots and simple pearl earrings and a flower ring (the one above is from Amrita Singh and is cute, but I have one from Forever 21 that was only $3.50).

Go pack.

Review: Tocca Stella Eau de Parfum + The Daily Gimme

$68, Sephora

Sephora had an amazing Black Friday deal, where they were selling ten products for only $10 each. I picked up three things: a three-piece Tocca rollerball set (similar here), a three-piece TokyoMilk rollerball set (which contains minis of this, this and this), and a three-piece Ole Henriksen (similar here). I tried some of the Tocca perfume in Stella yesterday, and I am in love. The website describes it as having an orange-y scent, but I didn't really think of that when I put it on. It was very sweet and opulent, and definitely very feminine. It reminded me of the Old World and lush, expensive courtesans (weird). Also, the name is awesome.

Aldo Whitley Heels

Want to see what was in my latest package? Click past the jump. . .

The Daily Gimme: Bottega Veneta Solid Perfume Compact

$165, Nordstrom

I admit, I don't really know what this perfume smells like. However, the description on the Nordstrom website sounds wonderful: plum, pink pepper and jasmine. Additionally, I feel like Bottega Veneta would make a perfume that is great and elegant. Finally, even if the smell was only so-so, this delivery system is perfect. A solid perfume in a beautiful compact, which you can slip in your purse and dab on as you need it? Awesome.

Review: Tarte Carried Away Collector's Set + Friday Date Night

$54.00, Sephora

Of all of my recent purchases from Sephora (updates coming soon), this set is my absolute favorite. First of all, it's the best value. Everything added together would have been $500+! Obviously, this is a scam/gimmick for the holidays, but it really is a good value. There are 24 eye shadows included in this set, and they are full size. Also, the colors seem pretty unique, not a palette of just beige/cream/tan/boring. Also included are 8 mini lip glosses. I really only like the color of about three or four, but they are good quality and not too small. There is also a blush in a peachy-browny-mauve color, a finishing/mattefying powder, a large powder brush and a mascara. Just a warning that this is more of a meta-review, and that I will give more detailed reviews of each color/product as I try it in the next few weeks.

The Daily Gimme: Madewell Variee Leopard Flats + Target/Neiman Marcus collab wishlist

$260 Madewell

Um, yes. I am a recent convert to animal print, especially in accessories. I love these flats, which have a lovely ankle strap that prevents the shoes from slipping and a cap toe to make it a little more special. The price is a bit steep for flats, but I have found Madewell to make quality shoes. If you are looking for cute ankle-strap flats that are a little less fierce, these are also lovely. I particularly like the slight wedge, which "elevates" them to a new level. (Terrible.)

Today's Daily Gimme is going to be a two-fer, because I am very much looking forward to the Target/Neiman Marcus/CFDA collab tonight and tomorrow. Here are the pieces I have my eye on:

Rebecca to Basics Dress from Modcloth

Dress from Modcloth, Shoes from Madewell, Bag from Jason Wu for Target (similar here), Denim Jacket from Madewell (similar here), earrings from Modcloth.

This beautiful purple maxi dress was one of the only things I decided to keep from a recent Modcloth haul. As someone who is relatively short and stubby, I've always been afraid of floor-length dresses and haven't owned a single one (with the exception of prom dresses). This is surprising, considering the fact that as a little girl, I would drape a blanket around myself and prtend to be a princess. However, I decided to jump on the maxi dress bandwagon before it completely passed me by and purchased this dress, which at $49.99 (and free shipping!), was a relatively cheap gamble.

It is gorgeous. The material is a soft jersey that flows and skims over the body, hiding any unseemly lumps. The neck drape is elegant and simple, without being too revealing. The waist cinching  has a zig-zag embroidery with a lavender thread, which emphasizes a slender waist without resulting in the illusion of over-lush hips. My only quibbles about the dress are that the arm holes are ginormous (revealing bra and generous side-boob) and that it is a bit long. However, neither of these problems are unsolvable--a bit of dark purple thread will make this dress perfect. I am also concerned about the jersey fabric pilling, but that is a bridge we can cross when we come to it.

Because of the jersey fabric and the maxi length, this dress is best left for week-end outfits. I would pair it with a denim jacket and some gladiator sandals for a more relaxed look, and maybe a white cropped jacket/cardigan and some platforms for a  slightly more festive feel. As a side note, I own both the Jason Wu for Target satchel and the Modcloth bird earrings and they are both wonderful. The Madewell sandals I own are slightly different, but I am sure that any flat strappy sandal would work here.

The Daily Gimme: Gorjana Knox Necklace

$70.00 Gorjana

I've seen this horizontal bar style necklace on several fashion blogs and I really like the simplicity and elegance. It's something that can be worn with a casual tee and jeans for a cazh weekend but also with a blouse and pencil skirt for work. The site also has a really gorgeous vertical bar necklace that features a city name of your choice (mine would be London, of course).

Review: Red Carpet Manicure Gel Polish Pro Kit

$79.99 $39.99 drugstore.com

This package was sitting on my counter for several days. First, because I had received a deluge of packages after some frenzied Black Friday/Cyber Monday shopping. Second, because the system looked so complicated. All those tiny bottles! What purpose did they serve? Finally, after sitting down twice to attempt a manicure, I realized that I was missing some basic tools--like a nail file, or a cuticle pusher. I finally hoofed it over to Sephora to buy a nail kit (review soon) and sat down to delve the byzantine mysteries of this manicure kit.