jillgg's good life (for less) | a style blog

pretty in pink!

noreply@blogger.com (Jill GG (good life for less)) — Tue, 21 May 2013 11:00:00 +0000

I am a lover of color... which makes it hard to believe that just a few years ago I hardly wore any at all (what can I say, black and grey are easy fall back colors for busy ladies and moms alike). As I have learned though it's not hard to wear color... it pairs well with neutrals like navy, black, denim and white and instantly adds enough pizazz to any outfit to make you ready to take on the day at the office and/or as a busy mom with confidence and style.

I love a lot of colors dearly (blue, peach and mint are just a few I have featured recently) but pink is a fierce and un-ending love of mine. Just looking at it makes me happy... and wearing it, even happier.

Here are my top pink picks for spring... I hope you love them as much as I do!

(above: tee, belt, dress, cardigan, earrings, sandals, ring)

(above: ombre sweater, bracelets, scarf, clutch, flats, bathing suit top & bottom)

see you around...

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5 swim styles... which are you?

noreply@blogger.com (Jill GG (good life for less)) — Mon, 20 May 2013 11:00:00 +0000

This coming Memorial Day weekend officially kicks off the "swim" season around the country. And as long as the weather participates I know my kids (and myself!) will be ready to hit the pool and the beach for sure.

When it comes to your swim style are you more of a pool gal? A beach gal? Maybe the local swimming hole? (this article features amazing swimming holes around the US! so cool!) What does your swim suit say about your style? Do you prefer the classic feel of a striped suit or a funky mismatched suit? Do you go for all out classic glam with a black suit or for a free spirited boho feel with your swim suit?

I admit to being a bit of several styles depending on my mood! Read on to see what your swim style is! Or maybe you will find a new one you love!

If you crave a classic and timeless swim style like this one you will fit in at any watering hole (swanky or small) that you may find yourself this summer!

(above: swim top & bottom, sunglasses, flip flops, bracelet, tote, tunic)

If a laid back boho vibe is more your thing, this fun and funky mix of pattern and texture may be just your style!

(above: swim top & bottom, sunglasses, lip gloss, tote, cover-up, sandals)

If you don't fear bold colors and patterns then this swim style is for you. Mix and matched top and bottoms, amazing colors and textures says a lot about your personality!

(above: swim top & bottom, sandals, earrings, tote, cover up)

If your swim style is less sunbathing and more surfing then this swim look is for you... a practical but pretty suit, sport spf and a cozy warm towel for when you come up for air are necessities!

(above: suit top & bottom, sunglasses, "aquarius" necklace, nail polish, spf, towel)

If your style is glamourous, amorous and timeless then you belong on a beach in the South of France. If you can't get there anytime soon, darling, fake it 'til you make it! This look will be just as fab at your backyard pool!

(above: one piece suit - obsessed with this cut, tan lines be-damned!, sunglasses, earrings, cover up, sandals, the latest Vogue)

So I would love to hear which fits your style best? Is it just one? A combination of one or more?

see you around...

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elements of style v.2!

noreply@blogger.com (Jill GG (good life for less)) — Fri, 17 May 2013 11:00:00 +0000

I recently mentioned how I figured out a little key to simple and lovely outfits... I call it the elements of style. Through lots of research (painstaking time spent reading magazines and combing catalogs - it's a rough job, but someone has to do it!) I found that there are three simple elements for a comfortable and stylish outfit: something casual, something neutral and something dressy. Of course, you can always do several pieces in each category, but touching on all three makes for an interesting and cohesive look.

Here I pulled together a simple and gorgeous spring or summer outfit to illustrate the three key elements in place.

(jeans - tried these on and swoon, loved them!, top, wedges, necklace, clutch)

Have a fun and stylish weekend ladies!

my outfit: white denim with Old Navy!

noreply@blogger.com (Jill GG (good life for less)) — Thu, 16 May 2013 11:00:00 +0000

Denim is a no-brainer for me... sure it's practical, but I just love it too. And while classic blue denim is my go-to for cooler months, white denim takes the cake for me for the warmer months. It pairs well with just about anything and everything in your closet. In fact, I can't think of one item in my closet that wouldn't work with white denim shorts or pants.

It never fails that when I post about white denim someone will say "what about staining?"... I have two pairs of white jeans, one pair of shorts and a white denim jacket and I haven't encountered a little stain here or there that hasn't washed out in one try!

Old Navy has tons of white denim options lately, skinny jeans, boyfriend jeans, shorts and even a cute jacket! You should pop on over there and check out all the options! Are you hooked on white denim? If so, what is your favorite thing to pair it with? Here I went super fresh with white on white and a touch of navy...

Details:
Shorts, Old Navy (c/o) - they also come in several fun colors!
White Oxford, Old Navy
Blazer, Gap
Shoes, Sole Society
Watch, Daniel Wellington (c/o)
Sunglasses, Kate Spade (c/o Shop it to Me)

see you around...

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This post is sponsored by Old Navy. Check out Old Navy's latest fashion lineup in store or online at oldnavy.com.

what to pack: Southern California!

noreply@blogger.com (Jill GG (good life for less)) — Wed, 15 May 2013 11:00:00 +0000

I'm prepping to head west in a few days here and I couldn't be MORE ready for a little break from my mom-duties and for lots of sun mixed with plenty of relaxation. If you remember I was supposed to go to Southern California a few months ago, but the weather was terrible and then I got sick, so thankfully (!!!) the trip was rescheduled. So far the weather is supposed to be top notch and I am primed for some serious chill time mixed with some serious shopping and eating. The trifecta of the perfect get-away.

Whenever I pack for a trip I try to choose two colors to center my wardrobe choices around. This way everything mixes and matches well and I'm not dragging a ton of clothes around and wearing only half of them. Usually after a trip I am downright sick of the items I brought because I wear them on repeat so much. To me, that is success! For this California trip I am going with lots of neutrals (I'm totally into them lately) and a few pops of color.

Navy, grey and denim are stand-bys in my closet and while they may seem a little on the boring side I made sure to punch them up with a touch of color and texture to keep the looks interesting. These pieces pack well and are easy to wear so that I make sure that my clothes are just as relaxed as my vacation is. Several of these pieces I have featured on the blog already, but I keep going back to them because of their versatility. That, and now they are in my closet so I am constantly looking for ways to remix them.

(above: necklace, chambray top, navy top, sunglasses, neon purse, bathing suit: top & bottom, navy maxi dress, v-neck sweater, sandals, destroyed boyfriend shorts, grey dress, pink skinnies)

Do you have any spring/summer travel in the works? I would love to hear your packing tips!

my everyday style: light & peachy!

noreply@blogger.com (Jill GG (good life for less)) — Tue, 14 May 2013 16:00:00 +0000

Three things:

- I got my hair cut! Actually it was last week and I still feel like I am figuring out how to style it. Ever have that? I got four inches cut off and some how I can't operate a curling iron anymore. In my defense I haven't given much time to experiment with it. Life has been a little cray-cray since I cut it. This style here is a combo of a straightener and curling iron. Labor intensive, but I liked the final product.

- Light jeans. Like, whoa. I am in love. Last time I wore jeans with this rinse was most likely the late 80's or early 90's. But I am thrilled to be bringing it back 80's style in these parts. They are the perfect denim for summer too. So light and fresh!

- Peach. Oh yeah. Peach + light jeans. Double bonus on the 80's front. (I think this jacket may have shoulder pads in it too... but let's not go overboard, right?!?)

Details:
Jacket, Zara - last year (similar)
Peach Top, Gap
Denim, Gap
Clutch, Deux Lux (similar)
Necklace & Shoes, Sole Society

spring accessory report!

noreply@blogger.com (Jill GG (good life for less)) — Tue, 14 May 2013 11:00:00 +0000

This time of year you, me and your best friend are all stocking up on shorts, stripes, tanks and tees... but what about the finishing touches? Here I rounded up the top trends for spring and summer that I am loving and that seem to be everywhere lately.

Keep in mind bright colors, textures and easy of use for handbags this spring & summer... Make sure you snatch up totes for all your picnic and beach swag and on the other end of the spectrum you'll need small clutches or cross-body bags for summer evenings and to pair with your favorite sundresses.

(above: orange cross-body, blue cross-body, woven tote - SWOON!, leopard clutch, "viva" tote)

This seasons trends are all about pastels, Bling!, neon, and neutrals. There is no need to resist bold colors and fun pieces to pair with your favorite spring and summer dresses. Pastels bring neutrals like stripes and navy in to the season and also make sure to have some fun neutral pieces on hand to wear in between!

(above: peach/pink necklace, mint/green necklace, bling necklace, marquis hoops, neon bracelet, neon earrings, gold coral earrings, gold cuff)

Make sure you have all the necessary shoe styles on hand... beach ready sandals, a pair of classic wedges, laser cut sandals - super hot right now!, a casual pair of kicks and a bright pair of flats!

(above: flip flops, black sandals, pink flats, wedges, sneakers)

new neutrals!

noreply@blogger.com (Jill GG (good life for less)) — Mon, 13 May 2013 11:00:00 +0000

I'm having a bit of a split-personality issue with spring and summer clothes these days. One day I am wearing fluorescent pink jeans or snapping up shorts in every color of the rainbow and the next I crave neutrals to the max with not a speck of color in my line of sight. What gives?

There are some really great neutral pieces out there right now and neutrals are endlessly easy to wear (maybe it's the ease of use I crave?) so it's definitely not a bad thing! Here I pulled some pieces together that I am seriously craving.

Are you tending more towards neutrals or brights this season? Or both ends of the spectrum like me?

(above: grey sweater, linen v-neck sweater, scarf, flats, necklace, lip gloss, paint splattered denim shorts)

(above: maxi dress, linen jacket, flats, bronzer, striped top, distressed denim, necklace)

see you around...

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Foodie Friday... my new cooking bible!

noreply@blogger.com (Jill GG (good life for less)) — Fri, 10 May 2013 16:00:00 +0000

I will be the first to admit it... cooking for a family is difficult. The kids complain or can't sit still, the husband wants meat and potatoes and you just want a salad and then throw in after-school activities and it's a mess. Not to mention trying to find the time and energy after an already full day just to put dinner together (that is if you even have any food in the house!). There are a lot of things going against a "family" dinner. But studies show that it's one of the healthiest things families can do together: eat together. It feeds us and brings us together even when it doesn't feel like it does (am I the only one that has to remind the kids a million times to sit straight!?!?). And I believe those studies.

But talking about it is one thing, having the rubber meet the pavement is another. Enter this book. I only got it about two weeks ago, but I have already made about four or five of the recipes and all of them are healthy and delicious and best part... my kids haven't complain about ONE of the recipes that I have made. They have loved them all! (that is truly amazing!) Plus, my husband and I have loved them too. Super bonus!

Even if you don't have kids, you will find these recipes to be simple and inexpensive to put together - not too many crazy ingredients. Plus, the book is full of classic favorites, so each recipe is a crowd pleaser as well!

Mad Hungry Cravings by Lucinda Scala Quinn

celebrate MOM!

noreply@blogger.com (Jill GG (good life for less)) — Fri, 10 May 2013 11:00:00 +0000

Happy Mother's Day weekend!

If you are a mom, I sincerely hope you get spoiled rotten this weekend... if you aren't a mom yet, then take some time to spoil your momma a bit! Mom's deserve it! For my ideal Mother's Day I would be wearing this outfit for an ideal day of sleeping in, brunching and getting loved on by my kiddos! I love that it's so bold and vibrant!

In reality I will be soccer-momming it this weekend... my son has a big tournament on the East side of the state all weekend. So my weekend is going to be spent in a fold out chair, in a traveling teams hotel with continental breakfast. Not ideal. But in honor of my soccer loving son - I will have the time of my life - and maybe be sneaking mimosas with the other moms from the sidelines. (wink, wink!) I think my husband and kids still have a few surprises up their sleeve for me so all will definitely not be lost.

(get the look: dress, necklace, shoes, lip gloss, clutch)

my outfit: playing hooky!

noreply@blogger.com (Jill GG (good life for less)) — Thu, 09 May 2013 16:00:00 +0000

Recently my husband and I took a few hours out of our usually busy schedules to go out for an indulgent lunch and splurge on ice cream afterwards. The weather was in the low 80's and it felt like summer time when we were young. It was such a fun and refreshing way to catch up with one another.

I knew that a tank would be in order for the day since we planned on dining (and dessert-ing!) outdoors and I wanted to soak up a little sun. And this linen skirt was a perfect piece to wear on a warm day. I popped on a little jacket, because no matter what the temps I always seem to get a little chill at some point in the day! My denim jacket was perfect for tagging along.

Details:
Tank, J.Crew
Skirt, J.Crew
Bag, Sole Society
Denim Jacket, Gap (very old)
Sandals, Old Navy (c/o)
Bracelet, Towne & Reese (c/o)

see you around...

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style basics: shorts!

noreply@blogger.com (Jill GG (good life for less)) — Thu, 09 May 2013 11:00:00 +0000

Style Basics is a little mini-series here on the blog that takes one specific piece of clothing and breaks down all the styles WITHIN that piece. A dress is not just a dress. And as it turns out, shorts aren't just shorts! There are tons of available styles of shorts and likewise an unlimited amount of ways to style them.

For illustration purposes I scoured the J.Crew website to pull their images and styles of shorts because they do a really fabulous job of illustrating not only the various styles of shorts, but the many many ways to style them. Blazers, button-ups, tees and cardigans can all be complimentary to the perfect pair of shorts!

chino short: (cheaper version)

this classic summer short is available in endless colors and lengths.

pairs well with tees, oxfords or a summer sweater.

fleece short - on sale!:

a glorified "sweat short", perfect for casual weekend wear

wear with tees, tanks and a pair of chucks!

white denim short: (cheaper version)

a modern spin on classic denim shorts, white is classic and fresh

can be dressed up or down with a blazer or a striped tank.

denim short: (cheaper version)

the end all be all of casual summer comfort, DIY a pair from an old pair of jeans to save money

these shorts are virtually a blank slate, pair them with tanks, tees or a chambray top.

chambray short:

a light-weight short that is perfect for a super casual day at the pool or beach

perfect with your swim suit and flip flops!

striped short: (cheaper versions, these or these)

this uber nautical style is quintessentially summer

pairs well with basics like a white tee or a touch of floral.

scalloped short: (cheaper version - so cute & under $20!

this short has a unique scallop feature at the thigh for added interest

wear these shorts dressed up with a blouse and a pair of pumps.

board short:

this style is not just for the boys - pack a pair in your pool bag!

wear with flip flops while strolling the pool deck.

What are some of your favorite styles?

My personal favorites are the denim options, the stripes and the chinos!

see you around...

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summer stock up! finds under $25!

noreply@blogger.com (Jill GG (good life for less)) — Wed, 08 May 2013 11:00:00 +0000

Summer is THE time to stock up on fresh and fun inexpensive pieces for your wardrobe! Why the heck not? Bold shorts, tees, tanks and sandals in every color of the rainbow and they are all yours for the taking... and for a steal!

For me, fall and winter are the times of the year when I focus on good and quality investment pieces and wardrobe builders. But in the warmer months I like to let all the rules fly out the window and have fun with fast fashion and cheap thrills. Every girl has got to have some fun now and then, right?

All these gorgeous pieces would fit beautifully into any summer wardrobe and I will tell you what - the price is definitely right! Splurge a bit on yourself, without even splurging!

(above: black dress, lilac tee, straw tote, earrings, bracelet, sandals, packing list - so need one of these for summer trips!, pink shorts)

(above: earrings, green tank, chambray top - if you don't have one yet, I highly recommend this one!, belt set - two for the price of one!, fruit scarf, clutch, espadrilles)

see you around...

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my everyday style: shorts season!

noreply@blogger.com (Jill GG (good life for less)) — Tue, 07 May 2013 16:00:00 +0000

It's insane to think that a few weeks ago it was snowing and now it's shorts season. Michigan, you never fail to surprise with your wiley weather ways. No complaints here! I broke out the shorts like a natural.

I loved that these two pieces, the peter pan top and the destroyed denim shorts, were not a likely pair but lent themselves perfect to a casual but stylish look. (Using my formula the shoes were "casual", the shorts were "neutral" and the top was "dressy"... )

It always feels a little awkward this time of year to go from covering your whole body to save your life to just making the switch to shorts and tees all of the sudden. Right? Do you feel that as a viewer as well? Your favorite blogger covered head to toe one day and then the next in half the clothes? Or do you feel that with yourself? Are your legs and arms a little shy this time of year? I definitely feel it, but when you are sweating your tail off in jeans... resistance is futile.

Details:
Top, J.Crew - on sale!
Shorts, Old Navy (c/o)
Watch, Daniel Wellington (c/o)
Bracelets, Sole Society
Bag, Sole Society
Shoes, Superga

see you around...

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super simple summer looks!

noreply@blogger.com (Jill GG (good life for less)) — Tue, 07 May 2013 11:00:00 +0000

I can hardly believe how quickly summer-like weather has descended upon us. One second we are pining for it and the next, bam!, it's here. Once the weather changes I am always thrilled to break out the warm weather clothes, but then before you know it, I'm in a slump (again)!

So today I thought I would pull together some REALLY easy peasy outfits to make sure that we aren't getting in a warm weather wear funk... because really, dressing this time of year should be simple and fun. Right?

White denim with a simple grey t-shirt and a color pop in the clutch, a maxi skirt with a striped top and bold necklace and a relaxed pair of denim shorts with an all season sweater (maybe with a tank under it for warm afternoons) and you have three of your next outfits already planned! (you are welcome. even I am thanking myself right now.)

(get the look above: denim, tee, clutch, initial necklace, bling necklace, shoes)

(get the look above: necklace, purse, striped top, skirt, flip flops)

(get the look above: shorts, sweater, sunglasses, bracelet, sandals, a rainbow of nail colors!)

Do you have any go-to warm weather combos? Do share!

nautical style!

noreply@blogger.com (Jill GG (good life for less)) — Mon, 06 May 2013 11:00:00 +0000

Nothing says summer like a healthy dose of nautical style! Whether you are a sea (wo)man or a land lubber these styles are sure to please. Since nautical style is such a simple and classic style, it's easy to pull off as well. And likely with items you already own in your closet... or add a few of these fun pieces to raise the sail on this maritime style.

(above: sail jacket, striped top, knot earrings, watch, belt, rope bracelet, shorts, tote bag)

(above: anchor pocket dress, j.crew coasters - didn't know J.Crew even made coasters, love these!, sunglasses, scarf, anchor bathing suit, fouta towel, NY cap, sperry topsiders)

see you around...

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Let's play ball!

noreply@blogger.com (Jill GG (good life for less)) — Sun, 05 May 2013 14:30:00 +0000

Hey there! Just popping in on a Sunday morning... we are having the most beautiful spring weekend... the sun is shining and the temps are absolutely perfect! I hope you are enjoying your weekend as well! It's only half over, so get out there and soak it up!

Later this afternoon we are heading to the baseball stadium for an afternoon of hotdogs and home runs (hopefully for the home team!). I can't wait to hang with my family and have some good old fashioned fun! This would be my dream outfit for the baseball game today... so cute, right?!?! Unfortunately I think it will be TOO HOT for closed toe shoes and a long sleeve top (I know, Michigan really got it's act together with spring!)... I'm looking at a tank and shorts probably. But it's fun to dream!

Do you love going to baseball games in the summer? We usually only go once, but it's always a blast!

hat, shorts, baseball top, shoes

Foodie Friday... tomatoes two ways!

noreply@blogger.com (Jill GG (good life for less)) — Fri, 03 May 2013 16:00:00 +0000

Okay, okay... some of you gals may think a food post is way out of left field in these here parts. And you would be right, I haven't blogged about food in a long time (ever?). But if you follow me on Instagram you know that I love to do two things (besides get dressed in the morning) cook and eat. I don't have a lot of diet restrictions (I used to, that is a story for another day) but I love to cook healthy and fresh for the most part and then indulge when indulgence is due.

Every time I post a cooking photo on Instagram y'all beg for recipes. So, I hope that you blog readers are as enthusiastic as my Instagram followers about food. I don't tend to cook really complicated things, more than about 5 or 6 ingredients and I tap out. So if you like this post I will try for more... if not, hey, no biggie!

One of my favorite things to whip up is these two recipes... they aren't really recipes, they are more like simple formulas... I'm not a fan of recipes (read: rules! I like to do my own thing.) but I will try to lay it out here. The one thing I know for sure about cooking is the more confidence you have in the kitchen, the more freedom you will feel and the more freedom you feel in the kitchen will make cooking enjoyable and less like a "chore" or stressful.

Here is my no-rules tomatoes two ways:

No Rules Tomatoes Two Ways (Tomato Soup & Tomato Sauce)

This is a perfect recipe for summer tomatoes, or when tomatoes are on sale at the grocery store or end of season tomatoes that you can get for a steal at the farmer's market. It is so versatile as with just a few ingredients you have a sauce for pizza, pasta or a delicious soup on your hands. Plus, your house will smell amazing! Note that I keep the skins on for the sauce recipe... it makes it easier and faster. If you don't want large chunks of skin than I suggest chopping all the tomatoes first. No one in my house complains though, this is so yummy!

Ingredients:

2 1lb containers of Campari (my favorite) tomatoes, roma tomatoes or even grape tomatoes

half a red onion or so

4 garlic cloves, give or take as you like

4 Tablespoons of olive oil

2 Tablespoons of unsalted butter

Salt & Pepper to taste

(other option add-ins: heavy cream or herbs of your choice)

For sauce:

Chop your onions and garlic and saute in a large dutch oven over medium to high heat with the oil and butter.

This will smell like heaven.

Don't leave your pan, stir as needed.

Get the onions looking translucent and the garlic fragrant... be sure not to burn them. This should take about 5 - 7 minutes.

Dump the washed tomatoes in (skins and all, but remove stems!) cover and turn heat to medium and let them be.

These little guys will pop and sputter galore but let them be for a while. They will get all juicy, their skins will pop and the acidity will start to disappear leaving a creamy tomato sauce.

Stir from time to time and scrape down the sides of the pot.

About 30 minutes later you should have a creamy, non-acidic tomato sauce. Salt & pepper to taste.

Next you have a few choices. I like to let this sauce cool as it is and freeze it (if there is extras) or use as tomato sauce for pasta or pizza sauce. You can also add some basil or thyme - that is really yummy too.

For soup:

Do all the steps above and let the sauce cool slightly (never put hot things in a blender!).

Poor the sauce into a blender and whip some air into it (you can tell when this happens because the color of the sauce lightens and the texture becomes more fluffy).

Return the soup from the blender to the dutch oven and while it is cool add cream (something about adding cream to warm things and it curdles, I think). Then rewarm and serve as a delicious tomato soup!

Enjoy!

elements of style!

noreply@blogger.com (Jill GG (good life for less)) — Fri, 03 May 2013 11:00:00 +0000

I search out inspiration for my own wardrobe any where I can. I find the most inspiration from blogs, magazines, Pinterest and the J.Crew catalog (mine are full of dog-earred pages). And lately I have noticed that I am most draw to outfits that have three key elements. I have learned that identifying these three elements makes getting dressed easier on most days and while I don't employ the 'elements of style' rigourously, they are nice to fall back on in a time of need.

Deciding on three key elements of design isn't anything new, I've long used this philosophy for decorating my home. Of course, the elements change and evolve as my style and needs change and evolve, both for my home and my wardrobe. But it's a simple way to boil down style in a stop-on-a-dime way. It

For me, the key to a look that fits my style of classic, comfortable and feminine has come down to the following elements: casual, neutral and dressy. For me it's the perfect ying and yang for my desire to be both stylish and comfortable and practical as a busy mom.

(get the look: this dress is amazing - check out the back!, sunglasses, clutch, necklace (or a really cute inexpensive alternative, shoes)

If you had to define your personal style in three words what would it be?

What about the elements of that style? I would love to hear!

my everyday style: day to night!

noreply@blogger.com (Jill GG (good life for less)) — Thu, 02 May 2013 16:00:00 +0000

Last weekend I threw this dress on for soccer games and lounging around the house and yard on a sunny Saturday. Then that I evening I popped on some earrings and threw on a pair of wedges and I was date-ready in minutes. It was honestly the easiest (and most comfortable) thing ever.

If I haven't mentioned it already. I'm pretty smitten with this warm weather. Over the moon might actually describe it better!

Details:
Dress, J.Crew (similar)
Wedges, Sole Society
Clutch, Deux Lux (similar)
Earrings, local boutique

see you around...

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April... the damage.

noreply@blogger.com (Jill GG (good life for less)) — Thu, 02 May 2013 11:00:00 +0000

Lately I have been pausing at the end of each month to take note of my shopping for the previous month. Each month my target budget is $300 for clothing. For some this may seem like a lot and for others, not that much at all. For me it feels just right. Shopping budgets are a personal thing, but I share mine here to show how you can stretch or not your dollars to create a versatile wardrobe.

This past month I did a little "stock up" at the J.Crew Outlet while on vacation and also checked off a "want" of colored jeans from my wish list as well as picking up a few other pieces along the way. Let's take a look at the damage...

Asos, Swing Dress... $29.93

Gap, Skimmer Jean in Neon Flamingo... $69.95 at 30% off, $48.96

Old Navy, White Oxford... $24.94 with discount/coupon, $16.05

J.Crew Outlet, Navy Maxi Dress... $78 with promotion, $54.60

Gap, Skimmer Jean in Neon Pink... $69.95 at 30% off, $48.96

J.Crew Outlet, Bandana Tank... $32.50 with promotion, $22.75

J.Crew Outlet, Orange Eyelet Tank... $36.50 with promotion, $25.55 (not shown, not online)

J.Crew Outlet, Linen City Mini... $59.50 with promotion, $41.65

I also got two new handbags at the Kate Spade outlet as my "Mothers Day gift" those are not included in my budget.

Total spent: $288.45 (Total saved: $112.82)

Thoughts on the budget:

The money seemed to go fast this month! But doesn't it always? I feel really good about the pieces I purchased and what I paid for them and was pleased that I was right on budget. I will admit that there were A LOT of other pieces I wanted to snag this month, but held back. But that is exactly the job of a budget, reining us in when we need it. And I definitely needed it this month.

Thoughts on the pieces:

The J.Crew outlet pieces are beautiful and versatile. I could have gone nuts in that store (love the outlet!) but instead I focused on pieces that would work for both spring and summer. I am always pleased by the quality there - these pieces are JUST as high quality as the regular J.Crew store. It was funny because I only bought navy & orange pieces and the lady who rang me up was looking amazing in a navy and orange outfit... we got a giggle that we loved these colors together! Little things like that always confirm my purchases. The colored jeans I hemmed and hawed about, if you follow me on Instagram I originally tried on the peach, pink, lavender and yellow. I seriously wanted ALL of them (I had a hard time holding back this month!). In the end I came home with the pink, peach AND yellow, but sent the yellow back. Restraint! The white oxford is to replace a white button up in my closet that was getting old and the black dress from this post was IRRESISTIBLE at that price!

see you around...

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how to style printed pants! (three ways)

noreply@blogger.com (Jill GG (good life for less)) — Wed, 01 May 2013 11:00:00 +0000

Last year's colored jean trend is this season's printed pants trend. They are hot, they are every where and if they are anything at all like the colored jean trend, they are here to stay.

I will be the first to admit that I have tried a few pairs on and each experience was a bit of a head-scratcher. Are these "me"? What will I wear them with? Will I wear them enough to justify the purchase? All good questions. Have you had the same questions?

Today I de-mystify the printed pants trend in three easy to recreate looks that will inspire you to try this new trend sometime soon! I chose to pair each pant with what are three of my very own key neutral basics like neon (surprisingly seems to go with anything), chambray and stripes. I find that when I am working to incorporate a new trend in to my wardrobe that pairing them with my old stand-bys makes the process much easier.

I hope you enjoy these looks and are inspired to try them out yourself!

(above: pants, top, shoes, earrings, bag)

(above: pants, striped top, earrings, clutch, bracelet, shoes)

(above: jeans - obsessed with these, they are also available in shorts!, neon sweater, necklace, clutch, shoes)

see you around...

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my everyday style: a chambray dress!

noreply@blogger.com (Jill GG (good life for less)) — Tue, 30 Apr 2013 16:00:00 +0000

I'm not kidding about dresses this season. I'm super hooked!

I spent the entire weekend in dresses last weekend, and I have the photographic proof ;) At this rate I am going to have to invest in a few more soon (if you twist my arm). Michigan weather has done it's standard "skip spring" trick this year. Why not go straight from winter to spring it challenges? 30 degrees one week and 80 the next? You bet. Not that I am complaining. Any time the sun and warmth wants to show up in the mid-west, it is accepted with open arms.

Don't you love the feeling that warm sunny weather gives you? I've got music blaring in the house at all times, I'm sipping iced tea like it's going out of style and I even went to yoga yesterday and LOVED it. WHO IS THIS GIRL? A happier shinier dressed-out version of myself. I kind of love her.

Details:

Dress, Old Navy (c/o) - on sale $20!!!

Striped Top, Gap (old) (similar - only$10!)

Flats, Sole Society

Bag, Tartine Satchel J.Crew

Sunglasses, Amazon (no longer avail)

Ring, H&M (old)

see you around...

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color trend: inspiring indigo!

noreply@blogger.com (Jill GG (good life for less)) — Tue, 30 Apr 2013 11:00:00 +0000

Confession: I used to never know how to wear blue. So I never did. I feel like that is kind of sad now, because blue is my tried and true these days and it's such a classic color (all those wasted years!).

In reality, blue is one of the easiest colors to wear. It is both classic and relaxed and can even be quite formal depending on the ensemble. The best way to wear blue? With other blue like these amazing looks. That is my take on it these days. Pile on the blue from navy to sea to sky to chambray. Wear it all together! Or if you aren't into the monochromatic look... blue looks great with white, orange (one of my favorite combos lately as well), grey or even other brights like pink or green!

A pair of your favorite jeans with a blue striped top (my favorite combo) is perfect for everyday wear... or wear a chambray top with a navy pencil skirt for the office or there are myriad other ways to pair all these fabulous blues together. Here I pulled together tons of inspiring indigo pieces in all shapes and sizes... all these picks are under $150 and most are under $100. So stock up on some blue for your closet this spring!

(above: baseball tee, bracelet, scarf, tote, nail polish, striped sweater, espadrilles)

(above: necklace, trench, scarf, belt, chambray top, sandals)

(above: striped sweater, v-neck sweater, wedges, lobster scarf, pineapple iPhone cover, necklace, distressed denim)

see you around...

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50 things every woman must own!

noreply@blogger.com (Jill GG (good life for less)) — Mon, 29 Apr 2013 11:00:00 +0000

Several years ago I put together an e-book outlining the 50 things every woman should own for a well rounded closet. A lot of women related to it for it's simplicity, it's focus on quality over quantity and because really, who doesn't love a good check list now and then?

Today I am so happy to announce that I have updated the classic e-book into a simple at-a-glance visual for your (and my!) reference! This began as an inspiration for my own closet as I desired to depend more on classic and timeless pieces over flash-in-the-pan trends. While trendy items are fun and serve a certain purpose in our wardrobe, these 50 pieces are here to last and to inspire for years to come.

I highly suggest you take some time to peruse the list and think about what pieces are missing or need updating in your own closet. The pieces I chose here are just examples of what your own 50 pieces might look like, use them as inspiration and then find a similar piece that you absolutely LOVE. You may already own many of these pieces or you may be setting off on building a strong foundation for your closet. Wherever you are in your closet-building I hope you are inspired by this list!

1. oversized sweater 2. oxford shirt 3. ballet flats 4. embellished top 5. chambray top 6. maxi dress 7. versatile scarf 8. sentimental jewelry 9. trench coat 10. little black dress 11. a signature manicure 12. something outrageous 13. a carryall bag 14. sunglasses 15. cropped black pants 16. knee high boots 17. well-fitting jeans 18. everyday flats 19. clutch 20. sun hat 21. a classic scent 22. watch 23. simple tank 24. braided belt 25. casual shorts 26. wool coat 27. party dress 28. black leggings 29. simple skirt 30. pencil skirt 31. large purse 32. rain boots 33. statement necklace 34. something leopard - I prefer shoes! 35. cardigan 36. skinny belt 37. neutral pumps 38. tunic 39. white tee shirt 40. black blazer 41. striped top 42. a lady-like umbrella 43. a floral top 44. safari-style jacket 45. white pants (or jeans) 46. fun sandals 47. casual shoes 48. leather jacket 49. black turtleneck 50. denim jacket

see you around...

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