Crazy for Christmas Shopping

(Clockwise from top left): Audrey pullover sweater in pink (A&F); AE XO Ring (AE); gold and silver necklace (AE); Manhattan Beach button-down in blue check (HCo.)

It's no secret that I love any opportunity to shop--especially when my wallet is full and the sales are on! The post-Christmas deals are always the best, and I usually have a gift card or two to use up, which is exactly what I did on Tuesday.


First on my list was Victoria's Secret PINK. They have the best selection of bras and undies, as well as some really cute lounge wear in neon shades. But the store was crowded and I couldn't find anything that really caught my eye.


Then we went to A&F and Abercrombie Kids. Both stores were offering 40% off everything, which is a great deal. I ended up buying a pink striped pullover sweater and ruffled light grey tank at A&F and a lacy navy tank with a pinstripe bow at Abercrombie. And all for under $100!

(Closeups from top left): Ashley ruffled tank in grey (A&F); Audrey sweater (A&F); Dessa lacy tank in navy (A&F Kids); Cord Jeggings in light brown (HCo.)

At American Eagle, I was honestly underwhelmed. I tried on a pair of light wash destroyed jeggings, but wasn't thrilled (especially since they were $45) but then gravitated towards the jewelry. I'm almost never disappointed in the selection. I got a gold and silver necklace and a gold jeweled 'X&O' ring, and only had to spend $3, since I had a gift card.


Hollister was the final stop on our list...but we definitely didn't expect to have to wait in line outside the store for our turn to go in! I guess they wanted to prevent the shopper overload that seemed to be present in every other store, which was a good thing. With another gift card, I scored a pair of tan cord jeggings (my second pair ever--I just bought my first denim jeggings from AE last week) and a royal blue/navy buffalo plaid shirt. 


Despite the craziness of the crowds (remind me to never shop 2 days after Christmas), it was well worth it to score a lot of deals and spend just a little over $100 (not counting gift cards, of course)!

(Clockwise from top left): faux leather bomber (F21); Bearpaw Viper boots; ALDO Pirnie booties in grey (Amazon.com); jeggings in dark rinse (AE)

Have you braved the post-Christmas crowds yet this year?

A Shopaholic's Wishlist: Shoes & Accessories

A girl can't live without shoes, jewelry, scarves and perfume, right? Here's part 1 of this year's Christmas wishlist with all the accessories I'm loving. Hopefully it will inspire those of you procrastinators who have yet to finish shopping for the fashionista in your life!


What's on your wishlist?

OOTD: I'll Have a Blue Christmas

Navy/white striped sweater (HCo., NEW); navy culottes (A&F, summer 2011); navy opaque tights (Target, fall 2011)

Silver bangles (AE, summer 2010)

"OMB!" nail polish (Nicole by OPI, red); "Give Me The 1st Dance" nail polish (Nicole by OPI, silver)

Set of three silver sparkly rings (AE, winter 2010)

Can you believe it's only 25 days til Christmas?! I can't believe how fast this year's flown by. I am super excited for the holidays, though, and getting off from school for a whole month. College is great :) Except for the finals, of course. Since coming back from Thanksgiving break, I've been pretty busy with last-minute tests and projects. I can't wait to get a break from all this school stuff!


I scored this pullover sweater for only $20 the Wednesday before Thanksgiving. It wasn't even Black Friday yet, and the stores were already rolling out their deals. I'm not complaining though--it was nice to get some steals without having to deal with the crowds. I like this sweater because I have nothing like it in my closet--I usually stick with thinner stripes and all my sweaters are cardigans. But a change every once in awhile is nice, and I really like the look of this new sweater. The purchase was inspired by my sister, who bought a similar one from Abercrombie & Fitch recently. 


What are you most looking forward to this holiday season?

Walking the Denver Runway

As a Colorado almost-native (I was born in Phoenix, AZ and lived there for almost 2 years), I have been to the capital city, Denver, many many times. My hometown of Colorado Springs is only 69 miles south of Colorado's biggest city so my family and I have made several day trips up there, whether it's to go to the airport (much, much better than the Colorado Springs airport!), some kind of attraction or the many malls (also much better). Despite what many people say, that only huge cities like NYC and LA have great fashion, Denver is also a mecca for upscale, runway-esque clothing.

One recent example of this was the Volunteers of America Holiday Fashion Show last Saturday. Unlike many fashion shows, it featured outfits that actually work for the season. Colorado can get kinda cold (and of course, snowy) in the winter so boots, skinny jeans and classy coats were the main highlights.

Also, cocktail dresses were showcased, just in time for many Christmas and New Years parties. Local boutique owners were on hand to describe the pieces they had chosen. The best part of this fashion show is that all the pieces were very down-to-earth and realistic for almost anyone.
Of course, some trends emerged from the show. A great casual outfit for winter 2010 is some skinnies or cargoes paired with a sweater. You can dress it down with suede boots (this look works great if you have to do a lot of walking outside) or make it work for a night out with a great pair of heels.
Don't think that VOA was only for the well-heeled--a cabana for eight cost $2500, while general admission tix went for only $40. So it really involved the whole fashion-obsessed community, as well as those who are curious about what fashion shows are really about. Hopefully, I can go sometime in the future!
Here is my take on the current trend of skinnies/cargoes with a sweater. One way is casual, and the other more suited for nighttime.

Early Christmas Presents: Part 4

Hollister is the place to go year-round to get surf-inspired, SoCal clothing. Unlike Abercrombie & Fitch (nothing against you, A&F!), Hollister is a little more laid-back and the prices definitely reflect that; most things are $20-$70 cheaper at HCo. That's not to say that the quality is worse, though, Hollister is just drawing in a younger demographic that usually has less money to spend.

Looking for a unique sweater that'll keep you warm on Christmas and beyond? The Ramona sweater ($130) may be just what you're looking for! It has all-over knit vintage patterns, fits a little looser than most of their sweaters (that's why it's called Sexy Ease Fit) and is actually handknit which is why it's a little pricey. But it's still a great buy.
If you're totally over your old, ratty pjs, try Hollister's! Their Rockpile shorts ($15.50) won't break the bank and come in 5 super-cute patterns perfect for the holidays.
Add some shine to your accessories with a Vintage Cali Belt ($29.50). This one has a silvery strand weaving through the brown, so you'll definitely stand out whether you pair this belt with jeans or a dress.
Want a funny holiday-inspired graphic tee to wear to school? The Promenade Park tee ($15.50) has you covered, with 6 different colors each with a very different, comical and cute Christmas graphic. You'll really get into the holiday spirit with this shirt because a dollar from each purchase goes to preserve beaches. So you'll be giving, and getting!
Love plaid shirts? So do I! The hardest part for me is picking the color that I want, and with the Arch Bay shirt ($30), there are even more options! My favorites are the green plaid, the navy plaid and the light navy plaid, but feel free to choose whichever color you love best!
A simple sweater with a stand-out detail...that's the Scripps Pier sweater ($59.50) for ya! It comes in dark pink, navy and dark grey and each one features a large knit seagull in a pop color. And it's a classic scoopneck style that will go with almost anything, so you'll get a lot of wear out of this!
I've always loved the look of trapper hats, but never found one that was cute enough for me. The Vintage SoCal Knit Cap in red ($29.50) is very stylish though with its knit heart and logo embellishments. And you've gotta love the pom-poms!
If you want to extend the life of your miniskirts by wearing them into winter, you'll need a good pair of leggings. The Awesome Butt Jersey Leggings ($12) are simple but warm, and come in navy and three shades of grey to match just about anything you have.
Shop at Hollister this holiday season and you won't be disappointed! Look for free shipping and other discounts throughout the season and happy Cali Christmas!

Early Christmas Presents: Part 3

Gilly Hicks used to be a store better known for their cute bras and undies. All that has changed within the past year, as they added clothing to their lineup of lingerie. Since they are a "little sister" brand under Abercrombie & Fitch (just like Hollister), their clothes and their website have a similar feel, with a Down Under edge to it.

Are hoodies your go-to piece on cloudy, cold days? GH has a great selection of them, from hoodless sweatshirts, to button-down hoodies, to pullover ones and even styles with faux-sherpa or faux-fur. My personal favorite is the Collaroy zip-up ($59.50) in red. It's got a faux-sherpa-lined body and a faux-fur-trimmed hood, making it super-cozy for even the chilliest of days.
Like A&F's jeggings but don't want to shell out big bucks for them? Gilly has a great variety, from super-dark to vintage to grey washes, and they're all $30! What a deal!
If you live in a warmer climate, or like to pair your skirts with tights, try the Sorlie plaid skirt ($39.50). The colors are toned down enough for the season, but are still playful.
If you're anything like me, you love it when your accessories match. This store's got you covered: hats and scarves that totally go together! I like the Knit Winter Hat in pink stripe ($24.50) paired with the Preppy Winter Scarf in pink ($34.50).
They've got all kinds of plaid shirts, from tunic-style to classic button-down. Try the Kingsgrove shirt ($39.50)--it comes in 5 seasonal shades, has a waist-tie and a ruffly placket.
Looking for a cute tee with a wintery graphic? You've come to the right place. The Golden Grove tee ($16) features Cedric (their adorable koala logo) in all kinds of poses, from skiing to ice-skating.
Don't forget pjs...Gilly Hicks has them, too! Their Bare Island sleep pants ($29.50) are perfect for cuddling up next to the fireplace or wearing on Christmas morning.

Every Monday, they have a Secret Sale, where one type of item (tees, sweaters, accessories, undies, etc.) is on clearance for one day only online. Make sure to sign up for their emails so you can get in on this. Oh, and GH only has 16 stores across the U.S. so if none of them are near you, don't sweat it--you can always order their adorable stuff online. Happy shopping!

Early Christmas Presents: Part 2

American Eagle is a great place to go to stock up on basics, like sweaters and jeans, for pretty low prices. I also really love their jewelry and large selection of footwear. Check out their website for a list of their top 15 gifts and make Christmas shopping easy this year!

Cable knit sweaters are a classic, and great for cold days under a jacket. But AE updated this look with their Cable Knit Hooded Sweater ($49.50). It comes in 6 colors, including a festive red, and is perfect for layering.

For those extra-chilly days, try the AE Puffer Coat ($119.50). It features a faux fur-lined hood and durable nylon that can stand up to wind and snow.
Leather is great for handbags, but not so great when it rains or snows. Luckily, the AE Mini Messenger Bag ($24.50) has the look of leather without actually being leather, and is much cheaper. It comes in 5 colors, and since it's so inexpensive, you may be able to treat yourself to more than one!
I really love the boots that American Eagle is offering this year, especially the AE Button Warm & Fuzzy Boots ($39.50). The chestnut color is my fave, but it also comes in khaki, rich chocolate and olive so it'll easily match your wardrobe. They pair well with tights and a mini or a pair of skinnies or even cropped boyfriend pants.
Hoodies are great for days when you don't have much time to get ready or you just want a more simple look. The AE Shawl Collar Graphic Hoodie ($24.95) has really cute graphics, comes in 6 colors and looks great over jeans.
Flannel shirts are a winter update to the classic oxford shirt and usually come in bright plaid patterns. The AE Lightweight Plaid Flannel Shirt ($39.50) is thick enough so you stay warm but thin enough that you can layer it over a tank or tee.
The AE Polar Fleece Jacket ($34.95) does double-duty as a zip-up hoodie and a lightweight jacket. A choice of 8 colors means you'll easily be able to find one you love.
Looking for a looser-fitting casual sweater? You've come to the right place--try the AE Light & Lofty Dolman Sweater ($39.95) for a hand-knit look that's very unique.

Start shopping now and take advantage of their free shipping offers and other discounts. Happy holidays!

Early Christmas Presents: Part 1

Who doesn't love to treat themselves to a little shopping spree after a long, hard week? I know I do, and while I rarely have enough money to do it, it's still a lot of fun.

It's not even Halloween yet, but stores are already introducing their Christmas collections. This just has me super-excited for the holiday season--I can't wait to start playing Christmas songs and seeing the first snow. Today's post is about the new arrivals at Abercrombie & Fitch...check out later posts in days to come featuring American Eagle, Gilly Hicks and Hollister.

I love anything that's lined with sherpa--it's just so cozy-warm! A&F's Pamela jacket ($88) combines the typical logo zip-up hoodie with faux-sherpa to create a very cute layer for the upcoming cold months.
Plaid shirts aren't just for lumberjacks--they're a good contrasting layer under a bomber jacket or cardigan. The Natasha shirt ($58) is a great tunic style with a waist drawstring, plunging V-neck and ruffle trim that comes in 5 festive shades that look good yearlong.

Even though it's starting to get cooler in Colorado (though we've had some days close to 80 degrees lately, which is almost unheard of!), I still like wearing skirts. The Carley skirt ($58) has a classic floral pattern complemented by a giant ribbon tie around the waist. The colors and pattern don't scream summer either, which is great. I could see myself wearing it with a pair of white tights and some boots or ballet flats.

Boxer shorts and bedtime are a classic combination. What's even better--boxer shorts that are a perfect gift for the holidays! The Kali boxers ($28) feature either an adorable moose with Christmas lights wrapped around its antlers or a simple plaid pattern.

Lately, I've been seeing a lot of sweatshirts that are hoodless and zipperless. Instead, they have a high mock neck collar and buttons. This is a great update to the classic hoodie. Try the Victoria sweatshirt ($70).

Fair Isle is the perfect print for winter. The Taryn cardi ($58) has winter patterns and is great for layering.

What's winter without a great jacket? Take advantage of A&F's price break on their stylish belted puffer coat (Harley, now $150). It comes in 6 neutral shades so you can wear it over anything.

Of course, you always need a few basic layers to go under everything. But they can still be adorable--like the Kaylin tee ($30). Each color has its onw unique holiday-themed graphic, from a moose wearing a winter hat to an assortment of cold-weather drinks.

Start your holiday shopping now to get a head-start on all the great things in stores. And pick up a thing or two for yourself while you're at it :)

Have You Made Your Wishlist Yet?

Shopping sprees are great, but you know what's even better? A shopping spree that you don't have to pay for! Of course, I'm not advocating shoplifting here, I'm talking about winning a store gift card...in this case, American Eagle's Wish for Winter Sweeps. You can win a $1000 AE or Aerie gift card just by creating or updating your holiday wishlist on their website. 8 others will win $500 gift cards.
All you have to do is sign in with your email address and AE password (or sign up for emails and discounts on their website) and start shopping! You don't have to actually buy anything, just look around and add things to your wishlist. You can even prioritize the list and add comments.
I've started my AE wishlist, and while it currently only has 3 items in it, I'll definitely be adding more...and wishing to win the gift card!