the good life for less

a quick trip recap.

noreply@blogger.com (ms. less is always more) — Wed, 11 Nov 2009 12:00:00 +0000

Don't you hate it when you get home from vacation and realize that you didn't take enough pictures, or that the pictures just don't live up to the experiences.

I have a bit of that feeling as I sit to recap the vacation. Although, how can you sum up in pictures the feeling of reconnecting with your spouse in deep and meaningful ways and sheer relaxation? Surely photos of the casinos would do it no justice. (and in fact many casinos and hotels had "no photos" signs every where. buggers.)

So let's all just come to the conclusion that these pictures weren't near as good as the real thing. But close.

Meeting my husband for lunch (he was working two of the three days I was there) at our favorite sushi place (I forget the name, just outside of the casino at Mandalay Bay). Look at this adorable bento box. And an iced tea. Perfect.

(ps. I am mostly vegetarian these days... but the tempura shrimp and the spicy tuna in the bento were consummed. And loved. The other more scale-y looking fish - bottom left - passed on to my husband.)

Me, fat and happy after an AMAZING meal at Mon Ami Gabi, hands down my most favorite restaurant ever.

We split the warm brie with peppered honey and roasted hazelnuts (I died and went to heaven). Then I had an amazing mushroom soup and roasted beet and goat cheese salad. If you want to drool over the menu, it's here. But the best part was a sharing a pitcher of "Fran-gria" a red-wine sangria concotion with rosemary undertones. It's heaven people! The best part is that the service was impeccable and the prices reasonable for the quality of food and service.

There was gelato and sorbet too... I only took a picture quick the first time we stopped (yes, there were multiple stops!) Here is my husbands chocolate hazelnut and my pomegranate. I am just wondering why in this picture he is digging into mine!?!? This little shop was in the breezeway between the Luxor and Mandalay.

A view from the pool. Where I spent most of my time... if you ever stay at the Luxor, the pyramid is cool. But get a room in the towers it is much more quiet and the rooms are nicer. We stayed in the pyramid last year and while it's "fun" it's also a bit on the cheesy side. And mostly I was there to relax (you probably think I am crazy, who goes to Vegas to relax? But I did. And I accomplished!)

Another pool view... the weather was warm and the pool was scrumptious!

All in all a most lovely get-away. There was shopping too! More on that soon!

Sponsor Spotlight: Coquese World Boutique

noreply@blogger.com (ms. less is always more) — Tue, 10 Nov 2009 20:00:00 +0000

A big thank you to Coquese World Boutique, my newest sponsor here at good life for less! Coquese features unique products from around the world in one online store. Here is how they explain their goals with their store:

Coquese World Boutique, LLC was founded by three passionate women who love fashion and desire to enrich people's lives by connecting them with a wide variety of products ranging from handbags, jewelries, home-decorations, watches and much more. Our goal is to provide an online store front for individuals who share our passion of collecting exquisite multicultural products from diverse countries that are proudly made by talented designers.

Their unique product line features items great for gift giving... so stay tuned for some of their products to be featured in this season's gift guides. But in the meantime, here is a sneak peek at a handbag I have been oggling over since checking out their site!

Isn't it so fun and unique? Check out Coquese World Boutique and stay tuned for more of their great products!

shopping guide: {season's greetings}

noreply@blogger.com (ms. less is always more) — Tue, 10 Nov 2009 17:00:00 +0000

One of my favorite "tasks" of the holiday season is choosing a Christmas card to send out to friends and families (the photo shoot... trying to get all four of us to smile or at least look at the camera, that is another story!) Here are some gorgeous cards that will be sure to put smiles on the faces of your recipients... if they at least don't include the most perfect smiles of your family!

(1)

"Merry Christmas" Card 5 x 7, Etsy, TypeTypeType

(10 cards/envelopes, $20)

***EDITED TO ADD***

Shoppers from THE GOOD LIFE FOR LESS wanting Christmas cards can save 20% on 10+ cards by putting "I love the Good Life" in message to seller. Merry Christmas!

(2)

"Modern Bloom" Custom Christmas Card, Etsy, Announcing You

(High Res Digital Image, $15)

(3)

Kaleidiscope Snowflakes Folded Card, Tiny Prints

(10 cards/envelopes, $28.90)

(4)

"Believe" Christmas Collage, Pear Tree Greetings

(24 cards/envelopes, $22.99)

I'd like to thank...

noreply@blogger.com (ms. less is always more) — Tue, 10 Nov 2009 12:00:00 +0000

Wow people... to say I am exhausted is an understatement. But the trip was amazing and I missed being here with you all.

Were you not in the best hands though?

I'd like to thank these amazing ladies for killing it with the guest posts:

Paula of Two Ellie
Elaine of Clothed Much
Ada-Marie of Spark!
Christina of Down & Out Chic
Jackie of Sweetie Pie Pumpkin Noodle

I've got some little pressies making their way to you soon!!!

Also, this trip would not have been possible without this amazing sweater.

(Forever 21, $24.80)

I quick snagged it before heading out of town and it was perfect for long flights, crazy air conditioned interiors and general traveling coziness. I have a feeling me and this sweater will be doing great things together this winter!

I'll be back soon with some good LOOK for less goodness and a quick trip recap! Also, my first gift guide will be posting later today and you WON'T want to miss it!

Guest Blogger: Sweetie Pie Pumpkin Noodle - Inspiring Closets

nattiecakedesigns@hotmail.com (Jackie) — Mon, 09 Nov 2009 12:00:00 +0000

Well hello there, GLFL readers! I'm Jackie, aka Sweetie Pie Pumpkin Noodle, and will be your blogger today while Jill is off shopping in all the fab stores Vegas has to offer.

We all know and love Jill for her amazing fashion sense, I mean does this girl ever get it wrong? I think not. Since I tend to gravitate to interiors on my blog, I thought the perfect marriage between Jill's blog and mine would be some pretty closets! Care to join me on a tour of some of the world's finest?

via

Those piles of folded and color coordinated shirts are making my heart go pitter-patter.

via

Well hello Fergie, nice fur covered ottoman you got there.

Domino

Every good closet should have a zebra rug, Hermes boxes and a place to sit and collect your thoughts.

via

Must be rough to have so many shoes you need a ladder to reach them all, huh Christina?

via

This one is actually my favorite: love the turquoise and white color scheme, gorgeous chandelier and floor to ceiling oversize mirror leaning oh so non-nonchalantly against the wall.

via

Here's one that is very much do-able!

Domino

Some repeating elements: another round ottoman and oversize mirror.

via

The train cases are a clever and stylish storage solution. If you are lucky enough to have a window in your closet, why not add a potted plant to freshen the place up a bit?

Domino

Hmmmm, perhaps a fireplace is what my closet is missing?

Based on the above photos, I've come up with a fool-proof equation to the perfect closet:

1 fancy chandelier + 2 rolls of patterned wallpaper + 1 animal print rug + 1 round ottoman + 1 giant mirror + tons of color-coordinated clothes, bags & shoes = one very happy lady!

All this has me itching to go whip my closet into shape, ASAP! If you feel the same, here are some great resources to help guide your way:

31 ways to make over your closet

Cleanse your closet

Wardrobe worksheet pdf

Closet organization checklist

Thanks for having me over Jill, hope you're having a blast in Vegas!

Guest Blogger: Down & Out Chic - what goes around, comes around

downandoutchic@gmail.com (Down and Out Chic) — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 12:00:00 +0000

Hi, this is Christina from Down and Out Chic and I'm thrilled to be guest posting while Jill is on vacation (lucky lady!) Since we're all here, and she's there (someplace better than here), let's make the best of it, shall we? I thought I'd share my take on this season hottest trends with a throw back to the past. If you've been around for any amount of time, I'm sure you've realized that the trends you thought would NEVER come back, are consistently coming back with a new and fresh spin (yes, I'm talking to you acid wash jeans).
Let's take a peek at these vintage pieces that are surprisingly modern and currently trendy:

Sequins:
Vintage boho black vest in silk sequins lace $38.99

via Sapia

Plaid:
vintage FALL PLAID mini skirt $34

via allen company inc

Neck line Embellishments:
vintage silk gold silver cocktail dress $48.99

via sapia

Neck-ties:
Vintage POLKA DOT Secretary Blouse Ascot $24

via Small Earth Vintage

Cowl Neck Sweater:
Vintage Olivia Sweater Dress $30

via ashlee bonapartel

All shades of Purple:
Vintage Amethyst Rose Party Dress 1960's $140

via Small Earth Vintage
If you're interested in why I shop vintage, check out D&OC's five top reasons here. Remember, all of these pieces are begging to be paired with modern accessories, slim cuts and a creative, fresh perspective!
xo,
Christina

Guest Blogger: spark! - buy this not that!

noreply@blogger.com (ms. less is always more) — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 12:00:00 +0000

Ada-Marie here from spark! I am really excited to be guest blogging for one of my favorite blogs and thank you to Jill for the invitation! I usually write about home design, and do a recurring series called "Buy This, Not That" about furniture and home accessories.

I love all of Jill's posts, but especially enjoy her "Good Look For Less" series, so I thought that I would combine the two themes. Enjoy!

Metallics are "in" this season, so....

LOVE THIS?

[Salvatore Ferragamo Flat Metallic Tote, Saks Fifth Avenue, $1,390]

BUY THIS!

[Millie Metallic Tote, Nine West, $49.99]

LOVE THIS?

[Glam Belt, Boden, $48]

BUY THIS!

[Metallic Bow Belt, Old Navy, $14.50]

And, who doesn't love sequins?!

LOVE THIS?

[Sequin Skinny Scarf, Coach, $298]

BUY THIS!

[Skinny Sequin Scarf, American Eagle, $19.50]

I can't seem to get enough of ruffles lately either....

LOVE THIS?

[A Thousand Tiers Dress, Anthropologie, $188]

BUY THIS!

[Tiered Silk Dress, Gap, $69.50]

And everywhere I look, leggy gals are sporting suede fringed boots.

LOVE THIS?

[Juicy Couture Tara Fringe Boots, Saks Fifth Avenue, $275]

BUY THIS!

[Minnetonka Fringed Tall Boots, Nordstrom, $85.95]

And finally, to go with your boots on a cold day....

LOVE THIS?

[Blue Duck Rabbit Fur Trim Coat, Nordstrom, $499]

BUY THIS!

[Frost Free Hooded Coat, Old Navy, $79.50]

I hope you have enjoyed the "Good Look For Less" edition of Buy This, Not That! Thanks again to Jill for letting me cyber-squat for the day!

Guest Blogger: clothed much - fall favorites

noreply@blogger.com (Elaine) — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 12:00:00 +0000

Hello everyone! This is Elaine from clothed much! I am doing a guest post for the good life for less and couldn't be more excited. I hope you enjoy this post as much as I did writing it!

There are a lot of trends going on right now but here are a few essentials that will help you be fashionably grounded this fall!

Blazers

Blazers are so IN. So far all four of mine have been from thrift stores. If you are petite like me, try the little boy's section. Boys grow out of their blazers but you won't. But please don't wear men's.. They will always be bigger and boxier and that is never flattering.

The Motorcycle Jacket

These have always been in style. Nothing beats a rocker look!! Especially when you can play it down with soft colors and pearls. Bring out the inner-rocker in you and get yourself a moto jacket!

Patterned Tights

You can still wear your favorite dress in the fall. Just spice it up with patterned tights. Even better...a non-neutral color like burgandy shown here.

The Statement Necklace

Statement necklaces are so essential to your wardrobe. They can easily spice up any outfit. You don't need to pile on jewelry all over your body to stand out. The statement necklace will help do that for you. In my case, I've layered pearl necklaces and a gold necklace and wore a dark outfit to achieve this look.

Red Lips

Red lips are so intimidating!! I never thought I'd be a red lips girl but I absolutely love it now! It instantly makes you feel glamorous and makes you look so much classier. When shopping for the perfect red lipstick, be aware of which shade of red complements your skintone.

Boots

Ladies, store your last-year's Uggs because riding boots are in this fall! I went for flat knee-high boots because I'm always walking. But for my ankle boots, I wanted a heel to make a statement! (Except you can't see....sorry! It was the best close-up I had!)

Statement Coat

You can't survive fall without a great coat! Make sure it fits your arms and flatters your body. Try out a bold new color or a different style. (I know mine is a boring gray but this coat really stuck out to me!)

Big Scarves

I actually use shawls as scarves. They are wider and therefore bigger!!! They're great to throw on over a simple tshirt and jeans outfit when you're running late. And of course add a moto jacket, statement coat, or blazer and you're all set!

Guest Blogger: {Two Ellie} Room to Outfit...

twoellie@gmail.com (paula) — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 12:00:00 +0000

Jill has amazing fashion sense and I am much better with home design, but as I was going through my inspiration folder I noticed that much of my fashion fits in with the rooms I love. Over on my blog I do an Outfit to Room series where I take an outfit and create a room around it and since this blog has to do with fashion I thought I would reverse it. So here it goes room to my outfit...

Outfit: top is from Target, jeans are Hudsons, Boots are from Banana Republic, Watch is Walmart.

Outfit: Shoes are Steve Madden {last year}, leggings are J.Crew, Top is BCBG {T.J. Maxx}.

Outfit: Blazer is J.Crew {similar}, top is J.Crew, Jeans are AG {so old they are getting holes}, necklace is from J.Crew, and shoes I am not sure of.

Thank you Jill for letting me guest blog today. I had a blast!

{Rooms: Plush Palate | David Jiminez | Wide Open Spaces}

leaving (for) Las Vegas...

noreply@blogger.com (ms. less is always more) — Mon, 02 Nov 2009 12:00:00 +0000

(via)

Hello lovelies... I am headed out of town for a much needed refresh and recharge. Which is ironic that I am going to about the craziest place in the world. Las Vegas, baby! My husband will be there for conventions and I will be sunning, shopping and eating all the most glorious food I can get my hands on. I plan on Starbucks lattes each and every morning (what a treat!) and cocktails each evening! Bliss!

While I am gone I have TREATS galore for you all! I have lined up some of my personal FAVORITE bloggers to entertain you and inspire you and believe me, you will NOT be disappointed! Seriously, I don't mean to gush, but the posts are SO delicious I almost want to ask them to stick around longer! The blogging world is so large and overwhelmingly inspirational... I'm thrilled to have a piece of that big, big world condensed for you here over the next couple of days!

Then when I return we are going to get in full "holiday" mode around here - consider me your personal shopper this holiday season. I will have the best buys in fashion, art, home goods, Christmas greetings and more. Consider good life for less your one stop shop this season.

(via)

And speaking of my gift guides... they will feature AFFORDABLE and PRACTICAL gifts for the whole family, they will feature many etsy sellers (because now more than ever, isn't it great to be able to support these amazing creators?) and they will be unique! I am so excited about all that I have in store for you dear readers!

Happy trails... I'll be seeing you next week!

~~~

ps, if you have Las Vegas recs (especially for dining!) please let me know! oxo, Jill

pps. I will still be doing good LOOK for less EXPRESS consults and regular consults, for those that have ordered this week (I don't know when! But I WILL!) So still email me if interested! goodlifeforless @ gmail.com

Get involved!

noreply@blogger.com (ms. less is always more) — Sat, 31 Oct 2009 01:26:00 +0000

Do you like fashion, celebs and finding ways to dress your best for less? My "other" blog onehundredinspirations is going to receive a major overhaul in the coming weeks and when it does I will be look for CONTRIBUTORS!

Whether you are interested in contributing once a month or once a week... EMAIL ME! We can chat about it and where I hope the blog will go in coming months!

(goodlifeforless @ gmail.com)

Happy Weekend!

oxo, Jill

Fashion Formula: Bold Flats!

noreply@blogger.com (ms. less is always more) — Fri, 30 Oct 2009 11:00:00 +0000

Earlier this week I was swooning over these flats (they are for the record still sitting in my "shopping cart" waiting for a moment of weakness). And it got me thinking about a little theory that I have (and I do believe I've mentioned it before) on bold flats. That theory is that these days bold flats paired with neutrals can be the "it" factor of the entire outfit.

Need an example? Here is your fashion formula for bold flats!

Denim

(Left to Right: Current/Elliot Distressed Boyfriend, Gap Nautical Jean, Rerock Straight Leg, Blank Denim Skinny Jeans)

Neutral Top

(Left to Right: Anthro Saffi Pullover, F21 Paillette Mesh Top, Silence and Noise Dolman Sweater, Boyfriend Long Sleeve Top)

Bold Flat

(Left to Right: Steve Maden Kelli Gladiator Flat, Mia Hepburn Suede Flat, Kimchi Blue T-Strap Skimmer, Steve Madden Embellished Jellies)

I feel a "weakness" coming on. How do you feel about the bold flat?

good LOOK for less: EXPRESS, KathySue!

noreply@blogger.com (ms. less is always more) — Thu, 29 Oct 2009 11:00:00 +0000

Right off the bat I was super pumped when I found KathySue's email in my inbox bright and early on Monday morning (remember, if you want a FREE good LOOK for less EXPRESS consult... get on that email early - 8am sharp to be exact on Mondays!). KathySue has been reading the blog for a while - her comments pop up here and there - and she is the founding member of my cool chicks over 50 club! We won't disclose her exact age... but I love that ladies of all ages can get in on the fun here on the blog!

Here is a bit of her note to me:

I love to be fashionably classic in my dress. I am a recently retired designer, well semi-retired we creative types can never totally retire. I love to stay current, not trendy but classic. I need stay at home and going shopping outfits that are comfortable and cute. I can't wait to tell my friends. We all complain that there are no stylish clothes for the over 50 group, yes we are grandmothers but we don't want to dress like Nana's.

I love it! I can tell you have a real zest for life, KathySue! Let's take a look at the ensembles I created for you!

Lucky KathySue lives in Southern California... so layers are key and sandals are allowed year round! For this outfit I chose the Gap Long & Lean jean (I dare someone to say they don't look good in these jeans... they fit EVERYONE!!!) and a top and cardigan for layering. I love the tasteful "bling" that the cardigan has and I added the fun yellow clutch to keep the whole outfit interesting!

What I love so much about this outfit is the tasteful and feminine details. Not too much and not too little. The ruffles are sophisticated and current without being overboard and the gold dangle earrings are soft and feminine.

The cowl neck on the tank in this outfit is again, very current for KathySue, but not overboard trendy. Paired with a comfy and flowing sweater for chilly evenings at the beach - this is a go to outfit for home or errands!

Happy Shopping KathySue! I hope you enjoy your new looks!

how do you stay warm and stylish?

noreply@blogger.com (ms. less is always more) — Wed, 28 Oct 2009 11:00:00 +0000

When it comes to bundling up... do you prefer wool or puffer?

The wool coats definitely have the style going on for them...

More Charlotte Russe...

...but oh, the warmth a puffer provides is unparalleled!

More New York & Co....

sticky sweet.

noreply@blogger.com (ms. less is always more) — Tue, 27 Oct 2009 16:00:00 +0000

Is there anything better than a really sweet (like sugar) shoe? I think not.

Kimchi Blue T-Strap Skimmer, Urban Outfitters, $28

Yes, you read that right. $28 bones. I feel a "yes, please" coming on.

good LOOK for less: EXPRESS, Ashley!

noreply@blogger.com (ms. less is always more) — Tue, 27 Oct 2009 11:00:00 +0000

Ashley's quick with the emails on a Monday morning (don't forget, if you want a new (FREE!) good LOOK for less EXPRESS consult, you do to!) and she's got a keen sense of style as well... she just needs a little help pulling it all together.

Here's a bit of her email to me:

I am a 26 year old newlywed English Ph.D. student and part-time composition instructor at a community college. I really need to amp up my "leisure" wardrobe. I have a hard time finding something cute to wear out on the weekends. Our weekends aren't glitzy, but consist of going out to dinner, girls night out, or more casual bars (as opposed to dancing/expensive bars). I want to look pretty and special, but understated: casual cool chic. I want my clothes to say something about me: that I'm artsy, creative, fun.

For Ashley's new looks I gave her a couple outfits that are definitely casual, cool and chic.

For a cozy winter night with your closest friends at your favorite dive bar (who doesn't love a dive bar with great company!?!?) this outfit has it all. Comfy, yet stylish flats, a cozy sweater, a french chic striped top and a bold belt to say "While I'm comfy I'm still polished!" and lastly a unique necklace to pull it all together. Michigan winter nights have never looked so good!

Did someone say girls night!?!? This ensemble screams girls night out! It is fun, a little sexy and very sophisticated - but NOT stuffy! Heels are fun to wear when you want to feel extra special... but if you aren't feeling the heels... flat knee high boots (similar to the ones in the final look below) will work just as well!

This last outfit can do it all on a weekend... from errands to shopping to dinner to a movie. Bold color and fun accessories give this outfit personality without suffering on the practicalities!

Happy Shopping Ashley! Have fun with all of your new looks!

~~~

I hope you enjoyed the first good LOOK for less EXPRESS consult! Don't forget... to get yours be the first of two to email me at 8am (EST) sharp on Monday mornings! A great way to start your week, don'tcha think?

good LOOK for less: Jo, stay at home mom ready to bounce back!

noreply@blogger.com (ms. less is always more) — Mon, 26 Oct 2009 11:00:00 +0000

I received an email from Jo recently (who I happen to know IRL too... fun!) wanting some help jazzing up her wardrobe a bit! Here's a bit of her note to me:

I am a stay-at-home mom. My wardrobe has never really recovered after 2 pregnancies. Most things I have are super casual and simple. Lots of tee shirts and jeans. I'd love to take things up a notch to simple yet kinda sassy. I love to wear large earrings or a big bracelet to have one outstanding accessory. I desperately need to figure out some great every day shoes in brown and black. Lastly, I need a new handbag for the winter. I need a big one that will work with my new clothes!

Jo's budget was about $250 and for that I was able to compile 13 new wardrobe items and 5 new outfits... Let's take a look at her shopping list:

For the outfits I tried to incorporate updated denim cuts and colors to keep the outfits comfy and chic all at the same time!

Adding details like ruffles is easy to do to an outfit and really brings it up a notch. Add in some funky earrings and practical but sophisticated boots and voila! Updated mom!

Adding a metallic shoe can help you get out of the brown/black debate with shoes and isn't near as boring and flats are great for comfort and ease. And here is a great oversized bag in a bold color that will easily jazz up any outfit!

Having one of those days when you are not "feeling the skinny jeans"? Simply add a extra long top or dress and it's comfy and chic and VERY mom friendly!

Thanks Jo! Happy Shopping!

~~~

Are you interested in finding out more about my wardrobe consult services... click here!

And don't forget - every Monday morning at 8 AM (EST) I will accept emails for two free consults a week!

the BIG announcement!

noreply@blogger.com (ms. less is always more) — Fri, 23 Oct 2009 12:44:00 +0000

This week has been super hectic... so I am a bit behind on posting this goodness, but I am certainly excited to do so!

I have been hinting for a bit now that good LOOK for less is getting a little makeover or change in program and I am excited to finally reveal the next phase of the program!

I want my readers to know how committed I am to the good LOOK for less service... how passionate I am about it and how honored I feel that you all like it!

So I am introducing a good LOOK for less service that is FREE!

I am so giddy excited about and I hope you all are excited to be the recipient of this new service! In addition to all the current packages (info here) this new package will be called the "Express" and will feature the following:

- Two to Four outfit selections based on your personal needs and lifestyle.
- All outfits will be budget minded, but will not adhere to budget constraints like other consult packages
- Two (2) Applicants per week will be accepted (hopefully I will be able to expand this in the future!)
- Applicants will be chosen on a first come first served basis (Monday at 8am EST)
- good LOOK for less "express" consults will be posted on the blog the following week

This package will be all the inspirational goodness of the regular good LOOK for less consults, but will be abbreviated a bit so that I can serve as many people as possible!

I will post more info to the good LOOK for less page soon... but in the meantime here is what you need to know if you are interested in receiving this service:

- As mentioned above, the free consults will be awarded on a first come first served basis... I will BEGIN accepting emails EVERY MONDAY at 8AM (EST) - no earlier!!! The first two emails I receive will have their consult posted to the blog later that week. Then the process will restart the following week! Email to goodlifeforless@gmail.com

hunter at gilt today!

noreply@blogger.com (ms. less is always more) — Thu, 22 Oct 2009 16:05:00 +0000

file this under yes, please. $48??? What a steal! Only at GILT!

baby, it's cold outside...

noreply@blogger.com (ms. less is always more) — Thu, 22 Oct 2009 11:00:00 +0000

Except for two random days this week where we got both temps over 50 degrees AND sun BOTH in the same day... it's cold. 30s/40s in the morning and rainy, cloudy afternoons that never seem to warm up much.

I've been spending lots of time near our fireplace, sipping tea and watching television or reading a book. But the first thing I think about when I wake up is what clothing I can put on that will be cozy! Unfortunately cozy doesn't always equal stylish... unless it involves these sweaters!

Love this ruffle front cardigan... not too ruffly to add bulk, but maybe some extra warmth!

This sweater plus leggings and a hot cup of tea... hello!

I am swooning over this sweater... with some trouser jeans, flats and some chic gloves!

I don't know about you, but I am not tiring of the floral applique look yet. It is just so soft and feminine. Just love it!

How do you keep it cozy and stylish ladies?

more teasers...

noreply@blogger.com (ms. less is always more) — Wed, 21 Oct 2009 16:00:00 +0000

I've been working on my daughter Abigail's "big girl" room lately. It has been so fun pulling it all together...

Here are the before's and the inspiration for the after.

I love how a project starts with an idea and evolves as more inspiration is found while shopping or even digging through what you already own!

Take for instance this sneak peek at the "artwork" for the room... These were simply blank note cards that I had in my stationary drawer in my office. The colors are EXACTLY what I am going after and with so many of them, it makes it simple to pull together the look for the entire room based on these note cards alone! There are three in the set (this is just one) and I paired them with some super funky, super girly picture frames I found at Hobby Lobby for only $7.50 each! The art work (there are three total) will only come to about $23 because I already had the note cards! (sorry, bad phone picture!)

Then I found these finials at Hobby Lobby as well. They weren't in the original plan... but they were on clearance and I got all three of them for less than $5! What a steal. Gold finials, meet spray paint. Spray paint, meet gold finials.

Here's a peek at them all painted. I just LOVE how they turned out! I want finials in every room of my house, I am so obsessed with them now! (another phone picture, but you get the idea!)

The next step is to get the crib out of the room... right now we have both the new bed and the crib in there and it's a disaster! Unfortunately she won't for the life of her sleep in the bed, so we are in limbo for now. But once that is taken care of I have some other furniture that will get loaded into the room and a rug I am working on! So more pictures soon!

good LOOK for less: Janet, WAS in a "mommy" rut (not any more though!)

noreply@blogger.com (ms. less is always more) — Wed, 21 Oct 2009 11:00:00 +0000

One quick note: stay tuned on Friday for a BIG good LOOK for less announcement and then next week the new program will unroll. I'll give you a little hint about it... it will be accessible to ALL and it will be really cool. I'm pumped about it and hope you all will love it!

~~~

Janet emailed me recently wanting to spruce up her "mommy" wardrobe... here's a bit of her email:

I have 2 little boys, a kindergartner and a 2 year old. I stay at home with the kids and I find myself wearing a lot of hoodies and jeans. I swear I used to be in style and now I have no clue! I want to look cute, put together and fashionable. I don't seem to have clothes to wear when I go to dinner or when I volunteer at school. I also have a upcoming girl's weekend to NYC in November and want to have a couple outfits for that. Even just a casual, comfortable walking around the city outfit, but that doesn't involve a hoodie. I like knee high boots. Although I love heels, my feet can't handle them so much any more, so the boots would need to be lower heeled.

Janet's budget was $250... for that I was able to compile 16 new wardrobe pieces and 5 new outfits! Let's take a look at the shopping list...

For Janet, my goal was to create outfits that were comfortable for "mom" duties, but that could transition to responsibilities out of the home or social events. The key to this is have a comfortable and simple core... in this outfit it's the black button up and skinny jeans - perfect for around the house and carpools. And then add the fun accessories like the ring, the bracelet and the jacket with fun gold details and voila!

Same with this outfit... a simple core and fun accessories to take the look up a notch!

Experimenting with different jean colors and finishes is another great way to spruce up your "mom" wardrobe. Here grey jeans are just as comfy and versatile as blue jeans... but add a bit of flair to your everyday wardrobe.

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If you are interested in learning more about my wardrobe consultation services... click here! And make sure to tune in on Friday for the big good LOOK for less announcement!

yes, please.

noreply@blogger.com (ms. less is always more) — Tue, 20 Oct 2009 16:00:00 +0000

I think I am going to start a new series simply called "yes, please." where I feature items I need to get my hands on STAT.

The "cozy" cashmere wrap sweater from DKNY would fit in this category.

Versatility at it's finest folks. So for me... yes, please. Well worth the $195, no? This would be a great transition piece if you are expected a baby as well... you could wear it through your entire pregnancy and beyond!

(also, if you visit the DKNY website they have a video on some amazing ways to wear it!)

Is it just me...

noreply@blogger.com (ms. less is always more) — Tue, 20 Oct 2009 11:00:00 +0000

Or is ELLE Magazine killing it in the "cover" arena these days...

Jen stole my heart in the September Issue...

Then let's not even get started on how fresh Mrs. Beckham was last month. You could have stolen this photo from the archives. Brilliant and gorgeous.

And then this little beauty arrived in my mailbox yesterday afternoon... (and I'm about to go get lost in it!)

And the best part? There were four other gorgeous Hollywood women that also graced the covers of this month's edition. I would love to have gotten Emily Blunt or Katie Holmes too! Pure celeb goodness!

I think that framed they could make some great (free!) wall art for my closet.... hmmm...

a little GILT love...

noreply@blogger.com (ms. less is always more) — Mon, 19 Oct 2009 15:48:00 +0000

Versace gives back... tote bags from Art Unites — collaboration between the house of Versace, the Whitney and the Starlight Foundation. Each tote is printed with an original drawing created by an earthquake survivor in China or a young victim of illness in the US. The drawings were made with materials donated by Art Unites. Proceeds go to the Starlight Foundation and the One Foundation. Every purchase today comes with a special 20% discount note that can be used at all Versace boutiques in the US through December 1.

And AMRITA SINGH, a personal favorite with fun colors and styles...

As usual all great GILT prices and all on GILT today! Use this invite to become a member today! Hurry before styles sell out!