Beach Bag Must-Haves!

I know I may be a little late to the game, but my Spring Break hasn't started yet, so I'm still living vicariously through those who are on vacations in tropical locations.

I went to PCB one year in college and had the time of my life. I'm not even kidding when I say that week was one of the bests of my life (besides the obvious wedding day, birth of child, etc.), and if I could be 22 again with no responsibilities, I would be booking my ticket right now.

Unfortunately, that's not the case, but I'll still be celebrating SB this year-just in a totally different locale-Washington D.C. My husband and I are both history nuts, so we are so stoked to go check all those awesome monuments and museums out (funny how your priorities change, huh?)!

However, if you're one of the lucky few who will be soaking up the rays, here's what should most definitely be in your beach bag.

 

The first thing you will obviously need is a cute bikini. There are sooo many on the market now, but I loved the stripes and girly ruffles on this two-piece from Charlotte Russe. Isn't the color perfect too?

I usually bring a giant bed sheet to the beach just because I like having a ton of room, but this sassy tie-dyed towel from VS Pink is sure to get you lots of attention.

I'm a huge fan of fun sunglasses and always like to branch out when it comes to my shades. I don't own a single pair that looks alike, and I love that you can express your funky side without taking too much of a risk. These tribal print colorful glasses are from GoJane and they're absolutely perfect for making a fun statement!

No beach trip is complete without fun flip flops and Old Navy is my #1 destination for inexpensive flip flops. I buy them in every shade, and love the palm tree print on this pair! 

After my skin cancer scare, I vowed to always practice safe sun, and the line from Bath & Body Works allows you to do so. I love their airbrush tanning spray, and their sunscreen smells yummy. This is a fabulous line, and has everything you need (even an after-sun cooling spray if you forgot the SPF)!

Last but not least, you need a big ol' tote to toss everything into (and to keep your  beer water in), and this Merona tote from Target is perfect! Love the yellow polka dots, and this can even be used when you're not on the beach!

I hope everyone is enjoying their vacations (or staycation if that's more your style) and staying safe!

Happy Spring Break-ing!

My Favorite Boutiques!

There seems to have been an influx of online boutiques lately, and to be honest, I started feel like they were all carrying the same products (read: chevron maxi skirts and shift dresses). For me, I feel that in order to have a successful online boutique, you've gotta carry pieces that can't be found anywhere else (isn't that the point of a boutique, after all?).

There have been a select few boutiques that have impressed me and (I believe) will have staying power. They have the perfect mix of style and affordability, and it allows women in areas such as mine (rural and sheltered) to have the latest looks and styles in their closets without having to drive 70+ miles to find them. 

I admire the men and women who had a vision and started these boutiques. Owning my own store has always been a dream of mine but seemed out of reach. Knowing that there are people out there who may have started out just like me and succeeded, gives me hope! 

Here are a couple of my faves, be sure to check them out and follow them to be updated when new looks arrive, giveaways happen (they do these A LOT on their Facebook pages), or there's a sale going on!

1. Hazel & Olive Boutique (cute name, right?!)
Yes, they carry a lot of chevron products, but they also carry a ton of adorable and spot-on trend products. My absolute favorite was a chevron poncho that I debated ordering for a solid 12 hours. I'm also in love with their shorts (bows and white on white leopard prints) as well as their workout tanks!
Hazel & Olive Website
Hazel & Olive Facebook
Hazel & Olive Pinterest

Hazel & Olive Instagram

2. Pop Of Chic jewelry
I came across this awesome little jewelry boutique when she started following me on IG. Let me tell you, it didn't take long for me to become majorly obsessed with her products. I love costume style jewelry, but I cannot afford to buy J. Crew's necklaces, so I love that P.O.C. has similar pieces at a MUUUUCH more affordable price!
Pop Of Chic Website
Pop of Chic Facebook
Pop of Chic Pinterest
Pop of Chic Instagram

3. Apricot Lane Peoria
I feel like this is a given. I've been blogging about AL for awhile now, and I just finally got my first shoutout from them (which totally made my day)! They are definitely one of the most successful online boutiques that I've come across lately, and I'm honored to feature them in my blog!
Apricot Lane Peoria Website
Apricot Lane Peoria Facebook
Apricot Lane Peoria Pinterest
Apricot Lane Peoria Instagram

Those are my top three right now, but I'm sure that I'll come across more as I continue this blogging endeavor! Keep an eye out for more pieces featured on Fashion Lust from these shops, and don't forget to think of them when you're doing your springtime shopping!

I HAD to share this...

I know that I am easily impressed with clothing and I become infatuated way too easily, but this caught my eye and I just had to share it with my followers...

Apricot Lane Peoria Facebook

It's a tie-dyed maxi dress. Two of my favorite things in one place.

If I had the $56 to spare, this would be in my closet in a heartbeat.

It's almost making me tear up knowing I can't have it...where is my tax return?!

Target Must-Haves!

My husband flies a lot of nights, so when LB and I get bored, we usually "take a trip" (as he likes to call it) to Target and roam the aisles. Even if we don't buy anything, it's nice to get out of the house and walk around at least a little bit. The dollar section gets me (moreso him) every time though, so we rarely leave empty-handed.

I will say that for the first time I think ever, I am thoroughly impressed with Merona's line for spring. I rarely like their stuff, but found myself lusting after a few pieces with their tag on them. Big surprise! Read on for more of my faves, and be sure to check your local Target for new finds for spring!

1. Mossimo Stripe Sleeveless Dress

2. Merona Doubleweave Pencil Skirt

3. Mossimo Zipper Pencil Skirt

4. Mossimo Sleeveless Jumpsuit

Think I have a thing for blue and black this season? ;)

1. Merona Tunnel Waist Top

2. Merona Tailored Ankle Pants

3. Merona Floral Tote Handbag

1. Merona Blue + Yellow Rugby Scarf

2. Merona Shimmer Floppy Hat

3. Merona Map Print Scarf

4. Mossimo Cat Eye Sunglasses

5. Women's Wayfarer Sunglasses

6. Prabal Gurung Ankle Strap Shoe

7. Mossimo Vidal Heeled Ankle Strap Sandal

8. Mossimo Patricia Covered Wedge

I truly believe I could stock my entire wardrobe with springtime must-haves solely from Target.

What would be on your list?

Happy Shopping!

Dress That Bump!

| find all the pieces here |

When I was pregnant, I had the hardest time finding clothes that were cute, that fit me well, and that didn't make me feel like a matronly sea whale (and I think those were some of my exact words). I looked everywhere, and there didn't seem to be anything that was marketed towards a younger age group and that didn't cost an arm and a leg. My philosophy towards maternity clothes was this: why drop a boatload of money on clothing that you will only wear a couple months (and may only wear once depending on how many kids you choose to have)? Not only did we not have the funds to spend a bunch of money, but I couldn't make myself spend over $300 on my total maternity wardrobe. Shopping in Upstate NY is limited already, but trying to find maternity clothes proved almost impossible. 

Here are the pieces that I feel you cannot live without while you're pregnant:

-maternity t-shirts and tank tops for layering

-a great pair of jeans (choose your panel, I preferred the panel that sat

under the belly

-maxi skirts and maxi dresses

Pretty much everything else can come from your "normal" closet and can be worn over t-shirts, tanks, and your maxi dresses (cardigans, blazers, sweaters, etc).

I also invested in fun jewelry and shoes that helped me to feel more like myself. If you can't wear heels, try some wedges!

More than anything, rock that bump. You're gorgeous and glowing!

Translating Dress Codes

Have you ever gotten an invitation that had a dress code on it and you had no clue what it meant? I seem to come across dress code questions all. the. time. It is the one thing regarding fashion that seems to confuse women the most, and I've decided to take it upon myself to clear some things up. Hopefully my little graphic helps at least one person out, and if not, at least there's some pretty outfits to look at!

Black Tie:
This is your opportunity to really dress it up! Choose a floor length gown in a classic color. Keep it as simple as you can, and choose glamorous accessories. You can wear fun jewelry, but simplicity is best. Too many graphics/jewels/patterns will make you look like you're going to prom.

Wear it to: balls, evening weddings (invitation will clarify), and galas.

Cocktail:

Short dresses are acceptable here, but try to keep it as classy as possible. I'd say a few inches above the knee is the limit, but you be the judge. Tea length dresses will work here as well. You can have a little more fun with your shoes and accessories, cocktail attire is still dressy, but a little more laid back.
Wear it to: cocktail parties, gallery openings, and most weddings (unless otherwise specified).

Business Casual:

This is probably one of the most common dress codes that confuses women. Many people consider business casual to be jeans and a nice sweater, but that's not the case. If you wouldn't wear it to a meeting with the CEO of your company, don't wear it to a "business casual" event. Dress slacks, pencil skirts, cardigans, blouses, and dressier tops are acceptable here. Keep the heels low, this is not a place for sky-high stilettos. Use your best judgement when it comes to wearing pantyhose/tights.
Wear it to: work, funerals, interviews, and any event when you're unsure of the dress code (usually held indoors).

Resort Wear:
This is the most casual of the dress codes, and one that is usually only worn during the spring and summer months (unless you're in permanently warm climates). Sundresses, capri pants, and lightweight blouses are acceptable. Pair with flats, espadrilles, or sandals.
Wear it to: outdoor weddings (stated on the invitation), BBQs, and other outdoor events (in warm weather) when you're unsure of the dress code.

A Day at the Zoo

It was a balmy 47 degrees today, so we loaded up LB (little butt) and took him to the zoo. Our zoo here is all outside and it's mostly filled with local wildlife, but it's something that keeps him occupied, so I'll take it. 

"Mommy, Daddy, come look at this bird collection!"- my child speaks like a 60-year old man.

I also wore flats today for the first time in aaaages, and that made me incredibly happy.

Jacket: Old Navy (similar), T-shirt: Old Navy, Cardigan: Target ( similar), Jeans: Old Navy

Flats: Target, Sunglasses: Marc Jacobs (similar)

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Guest Post: Ashley of Thrifty Little Pretties!

Hi everyone! Nice to meet you, I’m Ashley of Thrifty Little Pretties and longtime friend of CJ’s. I’m a serious fashion junkie on a serious budget and have a major love for re-purposing and reusing which is why I was so thrilled when I was asked to guest post here on Fashion Lust about my hobby. I know what you’re thinking and the answer is yes….shopping is a hobby. No….it’s not a problem.

Have you guys’ heard that new Mackelmore song – Thrift Shop? That ish is totally real life. I’m serious – every time I hear it I’m like, “That’s totally me”. With trends constantly being recycled I find it harder and harder to buy new when slightly used will do. Goodwill is where it’s at. Even if you prefer new over used, Goodwill has something for you, too! I promise. I’m actually gonna let you in on a little secret about Goodwill. They’re practically best friends with Target, which is amazing for us. All overstock and left over clearance items eventually make their way from Target’s shelves to Goodwill racks but at much better deals. And it’s not just the clothes. It’s the home decor, kitchen cookware, shoes – yes you read that right – shoes – and so much more!
Here are a few examples of the amazing brand new from Target items I’ve snatched up from my local Goodwill stores recently.

Like I said – they’re GREAT for not only clothing and shoes, but household items as well! All of these items still had their Target price tags on them even. And just to give you a ballpark idea of Goodwill’s prices – that lamp cost me $10 at Goodwill. The footstool? $10. Those snakeskin pumps? $2.99. Unbelievable, right? I know.

Tune in the first Thursday of every month for more guest posts from yours truly with more of my thrift store finds & thrifting tips and a little bit of DIY. You’ll also see some of my great finds from non-thrift stores.

Thanks for reading! Don’t forget to stop by my blog to see more of my thrifty finds!

http://www.thriftylittlepretties.blogspot.com

XOXO,
Ashley

Things I Love: Thursday

I've found a couple new sites that I kinda dig, so I wanted to share some of my favorite pieces from them! 

J. Crew Factory Store (same J. Crew, but much lower prices!)

jcrew neon necklace

jcrew graphic tee

Sabo Skirt (I love all the pastel colors they've got!)

1. Pink Paisley Shorts
2. Mint Lattice Bodysuit


3. Ink Island Shorts
4. Soulmate Dress

Short post today, but I've got another surprise coming up soon, so keep an eye out!

Springtime at Old Navy

I've been spending a lot of time at Old Navy lately. Partly because it's one of the only good places to shop around here, but it's mainly because I'm slightly obsessed with their new pieces for Spring. 

I really love their color palette and I feel that they've updated their sizing (I had a real issue with their pants not fitting in the past). I also think they've taken a lot of cues from the latest trends and have started carrying more fashion forward pieces in their stores. And you can't argue with the awesome sales they constantly have going on (and for my military affiliated ladies-don't forget they give a 10% discount on Mondays with a mil ID)!

Here's a rundown of what I'm loving lately, and what I've already picked up!

I wasn't sure how I felt about these boyfriend style khakis, but now that I see them on an actual body, I'm a bit infatuated. I love the green/gray pair on the left, but the pinky red pair on the right are really fun too! I think I need these in the bright pink neon. Oh boy...everything online is 30% off. Uh-oh.


These graphic and striped tees are perfect for warmer weather-wear them alone or with a cardigan for those chillier days.


I came across these tees the other day and was thrilled to find them. The fabric is lightweight and stretchy, but they are SO SOFT! I bought one in "Sea Turtle" and paired it with my leopard cardigan today-super cute! I'm headed back tomorrow to get the tan striped one to mix some prints!


I love, love, love the pattern on this sleeveless top! It would look so fresh with a pair of white jeans and a fun statement necklace!


I am digging these printed dresses, you can totally bring them into early Spring by adding a jean jacket and some tights and boots. The print on the left is my absolute fave.

And you can't go wrong with the 2 for $5 flip flops, I make sure to stock up on my must-have colors each year (black, brown, and navy)!

That's all for tonight, I'm going to snuggle into bed and watch a little RHOBH (that's Real Housewives of Beverly Hills for all you non-Bravo watchers)!

Let me know what you've fallen in love with this season!