Friday's Fancies #69: Fall Must-haves!

GAHHHHHHH Fall is HERE! Picture me doing flips around the house and running around unearthing all of my favorite sweaters. Because that's what I'm doing. Because Fall.Is.Here. 

Here are my top 8 fall must-haves:

1. Waxed Cotton Parka: More than just your average military jacket, this parka is something special for sure. The price tag is steep, so if y'all wanna chip in to help me get it, that'd be great.

2.  Herringbone Loafers: As far as I'm concerned, these are THE shoes of fall. Anything herringbone is good in my book, and these are complete perfection.

3. Basic Infinity Scarf: Nothing is better than a basic scarf that's easy to throw on with any and every outfit, right? This one is soft, silky, and sweetly priced!

4. BareMinerals Eye Shadow Palette:  I'm not usually much of a eyeshadow girl, but I think this fall I'm going to give it a go with these gorgeous dark & dusty shades of shadow from BareMinerals.

5. Brown Leather Bag: I've said it before and I'll say it again - this bag is the bees knees. Cognac. Tassel. Love.

6. Camo Sweater: I have been fighting the camo trend for the last year but dangit if it isn't growing on me! 

7. Leopard Pointy Flats: Leopard just won't die, and I'm totally okay with that. Pointy flats are my favorite because they help my short lil legs seem a little longer, so these are awesome.

8. Crystal Necklace: Target did a pretty solid job copying the classic J.Crew Venus Flytrap necklace. I already have the J.Crew one but I got the Target one too to layer 'em up!

What's on your Fall must-have list?

Tell me those herringbone loafers aren't perfection!

xo, lp

Friday's Fancies #60: April Showers

Last year when we did April Showers for Friday's Fancies I shared my love for Hunter Wellies.

Well, a year has past and it's now a full blown obsession. You can find every color humanly possible, and I'm trying to decide which one to invest in. I mean, it has rained for about 95% of the days in April...so I kind of feel like I can justify them!

Classic Hunter green? Nostalgic bright yellow? Go-with-everything black? Trendy jade or burgundy?

(find all the colors on shoes.com here with free shipping and free returns)

So I'll ask it- which of these classic or fun Hunter colors would you go with?

Think I might have to go red.....

xo, lp 

Friday's Fancies #58: Dots Done Right

I started writing this post and realized I sounded like a complete fool babbling about polka dots. 

Some people write deep, emotional, personal blog posts- and I'm legit talking about the fact that I like polka dots. ::sigh::

Welp, might as well run with it, right? Maybe you'll get a powerful tear-jerking post soon...but no promises.

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So here goes. Polka dots people. 

I like 'em. Feminine without being overly prissy. Easy to wear pattern.

Proof:

(via instagram)

Madewell always has an array of cheery dots, and these are some of my favorites at the moment:

 As you can see above I love me some polka dotted chambray- and this one is perfect for layering or wearing on it's own. Since I already have one of those guys, this minty subtle dotty button-down is next on my list!

Speaking of mint dots- these Keds kick ass. Everyone and their mother has a collaboration with Keds, and I love every single one of them. I've DIY-decorated my fair share of shoes and I might make these next...

Finally- the black and white polka dot. If you can't figure out pattern mixing- this stripes & dots shirt does it all for you. Boom. And if you're a purist- this linen racerback will layer well in spring and stand all alone in summer.

Anyone else writing shallow posts about patterns lately?

Share 'em. Or, tell me what your weekend plans are. Eiiiither way.

xo, lp

Friday's Fancies #56: Spring is here! (sorta)

I'm a team player, so if {av} says the theme this week is about getting ready for spring- I'll go along with it.

Even though it's been an average of 9 degrees when I leave for work lately. Womp-womp.

If it WAS above freezing here, this is what I'd be wearing:

The thought of wearing a sleeveless shirt is crazy talk, partially because the windchill, and partially because my arms are whiter than the snow on the ground. This Equipment two tone silk top is so bright and cheery (and currently almost 70% off. say whaaaat!) and would look great with skinnies or tucked in to a cute skirt!

I'm dying to wear flats again. I freaking hate socks. Yes, I'm one of those weirdos that hates socks. Unless I'm at the gym or trudging through the snow in boots, I'm in flats every chance possible. Gap spring flats kick ass, and love these leopard guys!

As for springy accessories, I look like a Kate Spade groupie- but I'm loving these cheery flower studs, bold floral iPhone case, and neutral catchall bag. 

Is it feeling like spring in your neck of the woods?

Please tell me you don't have to wear a down coat and boots so I can live vicariously through you...

xo, lp

Friday's Fancies #55: Lovely Lace

FRIDAY I LOVE YOU.

I'm so happy it's Friday I'm not even going to complain about my dentist appointment today. Even though I really want to. Really really want to.

{av} wanted to have this Friday be all about lace, so here we go friends:

Putting this outfit together makes me laugh, because it is going to be MONTHS until I could wear this in Wisconsin. A girl can dream, right?

This bright lace skirt from TopShop pairs perfectly with a toned down chambray. 

Oh, and the necklace? JUST like the J.Crew one we all know and love but a third of the price! Add on some blue BaubleBar cushion studs, a green ostrich wallet, and polka dot flats and you're set for a warm spring day.

Man, if someone wants to free me from my boots and down coat anytime soon, that'd be lovely. Bring on the warm weather so I can wear this, okay?

What's the weather look like for you this weekend?

If it's warm enough to wear the outfit above: please invite me over.

xo, lp

Friday's Fancies #54: Budget Bling

Clearly I love this Friday's Fancies, because I love jewelry. A lot. 

If you follow me on Instagram, you know this already:

(new to B&B? find me here!)

Well, because I'm not made of money I can't just buy designer jewelry all the time. Yes, I believe in investing in classic, staple pieces- but when it comes to over the top, trendy pieces, I don't see a purpose in paying a ridiculous amount! Here are a few of my favorite budget bling finds:

Find #1: Everyone recognizes the J.Crew Venus Flytrap necklace...but did you know you can get one from ASOS for 1/3 of the cost? Not bad, not bad at all.

Find #2: Big ol' sparkly dangly earrings are completely impractical...but totally awesome. Why spend $98 on Kate Spade Petal earrings when you can grab some from ASOS for $25 or $14?

Find #3: Okay. I get Brad Goreski is awesome, and right now the eyeglass jewelry is the way to make your arm/finger/neck his personal shrine...but how long will that last? Come on. $78 for hipster frames when you can grab them for $10? No brainer.

Find #4: Spikes are everywhere- but I can seriously not tell the difference between this CC Skye one at $185 and this ASOS one at $14.

Find #5: Bows. So you want to be ladylike? Good for you. While you're at it be smart like a lady and pay $14 for a bow bracelet instead of $128. Heck, with your $114 savings you can buy a whole handful of them to give to all of your friends.

WAIT: I still haven't convinced you? ASOS offers FREE SHIPPING. Yes, I do own things from Kate Spade and J.Crew...and it always tweaks my nerves when I pay a lot for something...and then still have to pay $10 more bucks for shipping! 

Which budget find to you like best?

I'm all about the first find- basic bling is always best!

xo, lp

Friday's Fancies #53 : red + pink

I know it's trendy, but I still am not the biggest fan of red + pink. 

This is about the most of this color combo I can actually see myself wearing...

Valentine's Day might be over, but I love these Marc Jacobs lip studs for an everyday pair. For the other jewelry pieces, you all know I love Gorjana... so I don't think I need to preach about these heart bracelets much.  Simple, great for layering!

I'm not much of a pink person, but I could make an exception for this bright, cheery purse!

I'm a stripe hoarder, and I love this Madewell top with the pop pocket. Pretty sure it would go perfectly under this classic navy blazer.

The rest of the ensemble? The best basic skinnies & boots. 

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Sorry all, but I'm keeping this short today. My birthday is tomorrow, and it's time to get away from the computer and enjoy the weekend! 

Weekend plans?

If you're in WI and feel like bringing a b-day gift my way, let me know :) 

xo, lp

Friday's Fancies #52: black + white and...

The theme this week for FF was just all about black & white- what could be easier?

Let me be clear- with the chilly weather here in Wisconsin, there's no way on earth I could wear this outfit for the next 5 months or so, but a girl can dream, right?

the BEST black skinnies

the darkest studs you'll find

dotted and delightful blouse

sleek black Marc ring

the shiniest flats

That's all I've got for you today folks. Black and white and simple.

Plans for the weekend my friends?

I'll be huddling under as many blankets as possible watching it snow. Be jealous.

xo, lp

Friday's Fancies #51: Outfit Crush

TGIF.

No, but really.

How is it that this week felt like two? Beyond ready for the weekend, folks.

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This week for #FF {av} pulled out the classic outfit crush card, and it was not hard at all to pick a look I'm loving!

LC can layer like the best of them, and I'm loving the simple stripes layered with a little denim and a chunky scarf:

I'm not the biggest jean jacket wearer, so I went with this crazy affordable and awesome denim button up from Target. Matched with the softest black skinnies and a chunky heathered scarf, I think this could be my winter uniform. 

Clearly I had to incorporate stripes in there somewhere, and this Kate Spade bag is completely the perfect way to do so. Rather than copy LC's dark nails, I thought this shade of NARS lipstick would be a good alternative! For the finishing touch, these sweet little studs add just a little bit of sparkle!

So there you have it, outfit recreation at its finest!

What are your plans for the weekend, friends?

I'll be bundling up for the 4 degree weather we're expecting next week. Gah.

xo, lp

Friday's Fancies #50: 2013!

{av} decided that this week for FF we should come up with an outfit to represent how we want to take on the New Year. Since I didn't make any real resolutions this year, I decided to create this outfit on my main goal for 2013: to just get back to basics. 

1. I'm a huge fan of PAPER planners and calendars, rather than having everything on my phone/computer. This Kate Spade calendar ($20) is quirky, creative, and a great way to keep track of things in the New Year. 

2. Basic, everyday investment skinnies. Enough said. 

3. This grey heather sweater is not only perfectly cozy for a casual day, but also a great base to dress up with a big fancy necklace for a night out!

4. These earrings are all that is right with the world. Rough cut, gorgeous grey that will go with any and every outfit there is. 

5. The best of all basics- a great brown bag. Madewell kills it with this leather beauty- definitely big enough for a camera, iPad, or your new Kate Spade calendar...

6. Okay, so maybe these shoes aren't a basic, but they are a comfy & cute way to finish off a classic outfit. Well done, GAP!

What would be your go-to basic piece?

...it's the earrings, right? Right?

xo, lp

Friday's Fancies #48: Disco ball NYE

NYE is coming up in a few weeks, and I think it's pretty well known that it is one of the few nights a year it's acceptable to wear as many sequins as you dang well please.

I figure if you're going the glittery route- you might as well go all out and own it...right?

Thus, I bring you the dress that may just make you look like the prettiest disco ball you've ever seen:

This dress from TopShop is completely NYE appropriate. Some may see it as a little tacky- but I just think it's perfect for the occasion. The surprise low back is sure to make you be remembered! It's over 50% off right now too...just sayin'.... 

As for the earrings, these Kate Spade small square studs come in a color for every personality. If you're trying to stand out even more- grab the neon pink or purple pair...or if you're attempting to tone it down, grab the burgundy or royal blue.

Which color would you pair with this sparkly dress?

I'd have to go neon pink. Go big or go home, folks. 

xo, lp

Friday's Fancies #47: Pretty Plaid

Well, clearly I didn't look ahead of schedule to see that this week's FF would be all about plaid...because I was a fool and did a post all about it last week. Oops.

Thus, I'll leave you with a not overly-plaid post this time around (sometimes simple is so much better!):

Item 1: Bauble Bar Arrow Studs:  A little funky, a little edgy- go well with everything.

Item 2: The Looker Denim: I don't need to justify skinnies, do I?

Item 3: Madewell Swedish Hasbeens: The "wear-all-day-and-all-night-all-season-long" shoes.

Item 4: Merona Stripe Sweater: I'm a full blown stripe hoarder, and adding a basic layering piece like this for under $20? Sold.

Item 5: ASOS Johnstons Tartan Scarf: Clearly in a post about plaid I couldn't leave this guy out. Love the pop of aqua/teal giving a classic pattern a new look!
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Happy weekend everyone!
Anyone else in the Midwest excited it's finally getting a little bit chilly out?!

xo, lp

Friday's Fancies #46: Express Yourself

Today's Friday's Fancies is all about picking out an outfit that reflects you. Easy, right?

This is pretty much the epitome of a day to day outfit:

comfortable & simple while still being interesting!

1. Yes, I've shown this scarf a bunch. It's because I own it and love it. It's soft and colorful and perfect for the holidays! The best part? It's under $15!

2. I wear brown boots just about every day in the fall & winter. Boring? Maybe. These Madewell babies could be mine any day.

3. With the Gorjana cyber monday sale I just couldn't avoid getting my initial ring any longer. Can't wait for it to arrive. Gorgeous, right?

4. I rotate between a bunch of pairs of dark skinnies throughout the week. Listen, I didn't promise this outfit would be wild & exciting...

5. I may be boring in the jean and boot department, but I try to wear bold colors too, like this green sweater! 

6. No outfit is complete without a fun necklace, right? This BaubleBar one will do the trick!

7. Last but not least, if I could afford this bag, it would absolutely be in my day-to-day bag. Perfect & polka-dotted.

What items are your go-tos?

If the polka dot bag is one of them and you feel like passing it on to me, I'd be cool with that.

xo, lp

FRIDAY'S FANCIES #45: AUTUMN FAVORITE

This week we we're supposed to make an outfit inspired by our favorite autumn food or drink.

I'm super boring, I won't lie. I don't like anything pumpkin flavored like the great majority of the world, so that nixes just about all of the fall special drinks/baked goods out there. Bummer. 

Thus, hold onto your hats folks, my favorite autumn drink is....a skim latte. Wop-wop. I know, pizzazz-less, right? 

1. Let's start with this gorgeous latte colored silk top. I can see it dressed down with jeans for brunch or paired with a sparkly skirt for New Year's Eve...

2. Black skinnies = staple.

3. These ASOS studded gloves remind me of the little foam bubbles. Was that a stretch? Yes. Trying, here folks. Gimme a break. 

4. How gorgeous are these Banana Republic earrings? That is what we call class bling, my friends. 

5. Brown riding boots = staple x 2

6. Growing up I would always drink my hot cocoa out of a little mug with a pig on it (cuter than it sounds), and now that I'm all grown up and such, I think this owl mug is in order.

What's your favorite fall treat?

Anyone else a boring latte lover?

xo, lp

FRIDAY'S FANCIES #44: Bonfire Ready

I've had a grand total of ZERO bonfires this fall, which is kind of a sin being from the Midwest.

It's supposed to be really hot this weekend...like 60 degrees hot! Woo hoo! Which means come night time, it'll be perfect weather for a bonfire, and wearing this:

1. Love this cozy beanie from Gap. Navy. Cable. Perfect.

2. I know full well I'm not the only one to be featuring this scarf lately. I got it the other day at Target for $12, and it is ridiculously soft! Get yours here before they're gone!

3. Fancy sweaters are cool and all, but I like cozy grey sweatshirt like this TopShop one is where it's at to be comfy outdoors!

4. These earrings clearly have nothing to do with bonfires, but aren't they gorgeous? They could be for your every day just as much as they could be for a special occasion! Under $30! 

5. I cannot afford these boots. But I want them. Now. Frye. Gah. 

6. If there's anything you take away from this post it's that you've gotta get these maximum heat leggings from Gap. They'll keep you toasty warm! 

Have a wonderful weekend everyone!

If anyone is having a bonfire...feel free to send an invite my way...

xo, lp

Friday's Fancies #43: #sweaterweather

I don't feel like this week's Friday's Fancies needs a whole lot of explaining.

It's fall.

It's chilly.

That's why some higher power awesome designer created sweaters. 

While I am a big fan of bright, cheery sweaters like the one I wore earlier this week, neutrals are usually my go to. They're easy to wear day to day and pair with colorful accessories:

1. I absolutely love this oversized fairisle sweater from TopShop. I envision black leggings, boots, and a nice cup of cocoa with this baby.

2. Again, TopShop killin' it with this long, grey guy. Perfect layering piece that can be worn day in and day out, both as a sweater or a coat.

3. Everyone needs this sweater in their closet. Neutral. Perfect for dressing up or down. Pockets for a playful look. I could go on, but I don't think I need to. 

4. This gorgeous black wool sweater is completely a splurge, but so ladylike and lovely. That bow! Ah!

Which of these for would fit into your closet?

I've gotta go with #2. (and wear it just about every day...)

xo,lp

Friday's Fancies #41: Leaf Love

Chilly blustery fall is in the house, people. 

Here's this week's FF:

1. Hi burgundy cords. Let's be friends.

2.  Is there anything better in chilly weather than a chunky cable knit sweater?

3. Max & Chloe's leaf necklace, just to drive home this week's theme.

4. Riding boots for fall: necessary.

5. Love this Gap hat. 25% off today. Booya.

6. Gorgeous green bow ring, even if the leaves aren't anymore.

7. This watch has nothing to do with fall or leaves, but dang it's pretty.

8. Bag that matches the cords. Just for good measure.

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What are you weekend plans?

Cheer for the Packers with me friends, I'm nervous this week.

xo, lp

Friday's Fancies #40: Monotone

Today's post will be short and sweet, because I am too excited about the guest we have in town this week to  focus!! We have a great weekend planned and I am ready to enjoy some fall weather with some of my favorite people!

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This week's theme is monotone. Now, I'm not saying I'm against monotone or anything in clothing- when done correctly I think it can be perfectly elegant...but I'm pretty sure I completely fail at it. When I put a monotone outfit together I always feel too matchy-matchy...or too clashy. Clashy isn't a word, is it? Dang. Either way, this is what I came up with:

capris/  silk blouse  /  necklace  /   earrings   / clutch   /  flats

Happy weekend you lovely people.

Anyone have any good plans?

xo, lp

Friday's Fancies #38: Team Time

This week is all about football, which makes me a very happy lady. 

I love love love love love me some Green Bay Packers. 

Now, I am really superstitious, and I wear the same Donald Driver jersey for EVERY game. Every time I've tried to mix it up and wear a different one, the Packers lose (shaking my fist at you, NYGiants).

Anyway, if I wasn't a superstitious, jersey wearing goon, these are a few things I'd consider going for to show my support for the Pack:

Necklace: Bauble Bar

Green tote: Gap

Green Embroidered Loafers: Gap

Gold Studs 1: Marc by Marc Jacobs 

Gold Studs 2: Kenneth Jay Lane (NEED!)

Cords 1  &  2 : Gapx2   Chinos 1 & 2: Gap & Old Navy

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P.S. How cute are these team shirts from Old Navy? They don't have any GB ones, but they do have about 20 teams! Check 'em out!

 Which team do you root for?

GO PACK GO!!

xo, lp

Friday's Fancies #37: The Ultimate Fall List.

Let's be real. If I made a list of all the things I wanted for fall this post would go on for miles.

I've narrowed it down to 12 fall must-haves....

1. Chunky Knits: This is by far #1 on my list. Comfy, cozy oversized knits are where it's at. This Dorothy Perkins Cardigan just needs to be mine to cuddle up in. Now. 

2. Striped Tees. I have a sliiiiight stripe obsession, and soft, cotton, simple tees like this Modal Ramona one are a fall staple for layering.

3. A Tailored Blazer. I should clarify: multiple blazers. I have a few and I love love love them. This ponte blazer is insanely affordable, and is perfect to dress down with jeans or up over a dress!

4. Oversized Watch: It's time for a nice, big, investment watch that will wear season to season. This Michael Kors one is sleek and will go with any outfit.

5. Simple Bracelets: I'm not a huge arm-party girl, I'd rather have one or two simple, beautiful bracelets. You all know my love of Gorjana by now, right? Good. This triple wrap bracelet would go great with that watch...just sayin'!

6. Statement Necklaces: No, I won't go into some big monologue about big necklaces- shockingly enough. This sophisticated Juliet & Company black and gold necklace is perfect for work and going out on the town!

7. Riding Boots: Gah, Tory Burch, you're killing me with these babies. Riding boots over skinny jeans? Basically my fall uniform (oh, with a shirt too, I guess).

8. Colorful Bag: In fall I always wear a lot of neutrals, so having a fun pop of color like this Madewell Camden Satchel is a fun way to spice up an outfit.

9. Pattern Scarves: I justify these the same way I justify colorful bags. Neutrals need a pop, people! How stunning is this silk Mango scarf? I can think of multiple friends that may get this as a holiday gift...

10. Sleek Booties: Skirt + tights + black booties = happy Laura. (Love these Wallis ones)

11. Everyday Clutch: Claire Vivier always kills it, and I've had my eye on this brown, black, and white one for a while. 

12. Basic Studs: Marc by Marc Jacobs earrings are always lovely, and  these are SO affordable, and wearable in every season. Raise your hand if you need these classic ID studs!

Which of these are you going to add to your fall wardrobe?

I think that bracelet is first on my list!

xo, lp