I Get Dressed

(If You're Wondering If I Want You To) I Want You To- Weezer

2012-01-25T07:27:00.000-08:00

I absolutely love this song! When I ran a half marathon 2 years ago this was one of my playlist songs to set the pace for my run, so I've heard it many times. I instantly thought of the line, "you took me home to meet your Mom and Dad," which made me think of an outfit I would wear to meet someone's parents for the first time.
I've tried to avoid the music videos this challenge, but I was so curious to what this one would look like after I'd already thought up most of this outfit. The yellow the female wears stood out to me- I mean who couldn't use a little more yellow in their wardrobe? And I absolutely love the hipster sweaters and 50's vibe. That sealed the deal for me! Introducing my latest aquisition- the striped hipster sweater at the Loft 50% off coupon sale, which just seemed to pull everything I thought I wanted for this one together.

Sweater: Loft, $25 after coupon, Skirt: Anthro, $20, Shirt: Anthro, $20, Shoes: Nine West, Necklace: BR, $6

Every Teardrop Is a Waterfall: Coldplay

2012-01-24T07:38:00.000-08:00

I love this song, but had a hard time at first deciding what if any outfits it inspired. The more I listened to it the more I thought it would be perfect in a movie soundtrack. You know those movies when the leading lady goes on some exotic trip to Europe to get away from her ex only to find her perfect match? She's always sad and then finds this amazing rebirth and happiness- much like the lyrics and the beat of the song suggest. Somehow an old flame or a sexy man with an accent shows up to find her spending the day "sight seeing" with no schedule in mind. The two end up having the time of their lives running through cities or historical places, eating at romantic cafes, and walking through amazing naturescapes while falling in love and completely forgetting any sorrows or teardrops shed. And inevitably, the leading lady always has some frilly, girly skirt and a slouchy shirt with a complementing waste belt and heels that no normal tourist would wear for that amount of walking.
Envision that scene, play that song, and hopefully you'll see my outfit!

Shirt: Aero, Skirt: Rampage, Belt: Loft, Shoes: Nine West, Bag: college bookstore years ago, Earrings: Banana Republic

White Sky: Vampire Weekend

2012-01-23T08:31:00.000-08:00

When heard this song it felt so warm and bubbly, and I knew I wanted a warm color pallet. I also thought of this cardigan instantly as the fun tempo reminded me of the swirls and artistic pattern. Not to mention the lyrics talk so much about modern art, and other forms of art that inspire the artist. I wanted the paint-stroked cardigan to play up some pattern mixing with stripes and also decided to add a somewhat geometric necklace. So here you have it, my take on a fun, warm, bright, artistic song.

Jeans: NY&Co, Shoes: Last Chance, Striped Shirt: F21, Cardigan: Target, Necklace: BR Outlet

Falling In Love At a Coffee Shop

2012-01-18T20:54:00.000-08:00

I already am thankful for this challenge- I never would have thought to put this combo together, but something in Landon Pigg's "Falling In Love At a Coffee Shop" inspired me to find any soft, neutral, romantic piece that I own. I looked far and wide, but finally found enough pieces I would deem fit for a Coffee Shop date the ends in love.

Cardi: Anthropologie, Shirt: H&M Austria, Pants: Aero, Shoes: Nine West, Pearls: Old Navy

Burnt Orange&Turquoise Love

2012-01-16T20:47:00.000-08:00

Skirt: Thrifted, Belt: Taken from a NY&Co skirt, Shirt: Loft, Cardi: Jcrew, Necklace: Gift from hubby, Shoes: Target

The 3rd Annual Music Inspiration Challenge

2012-01-16T08:09:00.000-08:00

3 years ago my sister over at Overtures and Organza and I both felt we were in a fashion dry spell. She told me how often music inspires her wardrobe. I thought about it a minute before I thought, hey, we could use this for inspiration! And thus the Music Inspiration Challenge was born! (Check out full details here)
Here's how it works, we give each other a playlist of 12 songs to create outfits to. You can do anything with the song, like pretend you're dressing up for the music video, dressing like part of the tempo or beat, stealing a lyric and dressing off that, or using the artist's style as your inspiration. It surprisingly stretches creativity in ways neither of us thought possible before.
The real clincher? You'd think we would have similar music tastes, but they are quite different. However, the results have been awesome!

Year 1

Then year 2 I got married, and bronchitis, and almost finished, but not quite.

This year I'm going to finish in 3 weeks with my new playlist. So without further adieu, here it is!

Starry Eyed - Ellie Goulding
White Sky - Vampire Weekend
Falling in Love at a Coffee Shop - Landon Pigg
Electric Twist - A Fine Frenzy
What You Waiting For - Gwen Stefani (clean version)
It's Not Unusual - Glee Cast
She Blinded Me With Science - Thomas Dolby
Every Teardrop is a Waterfall - Coldplay
Big Black Horse and The Cherry Tree - KT Tunstall
My Man My Moon - Feist
(If You are Wondering if I Want you To) I Want You To - Weezer
Dear in the Headlights - Owl City

Do you want to play along too? We'd love to have you and feature your outfits! Feel free to choose either my playlist or the one I crafted for my sister, which you can find here.

And may the fashion rut the two of us find ourselves constantly facing in January now be put to an end!

Mixing Patterns

2012-01-12T06:41:00.000-08:00

Shirt: BR, $11, Belt: Thrifted, $1, Shoes: Target, $8, Skirt: Gift from Mom, Necklace: Old Navy, $6

Inverse

2012-01-11T20:46:00.000-08:00

I love to mix up my wardrobe with bright accessories, but today was an inverse kind of day. Loving color blocking, and I thought why not go neutral with accessories for a change?
Shirt: BR, $15, Skirt: Thrifted, $3, Shoes: Dillards, $13, Belt: Loft, Earrings: BR, $6

The Bike Ride Date

2012-01-09T05:46:00.000-08:00

I needed an outdoor friendly cute date outfit this weekend. Is anyone else as in love as I am with colored pants right?
Pants: Old Navy (thrifted), Striped T: Banana Republic, Cardi: AE, Necklace: Made by me, Shoes: Famous Footwear

I think this outfit worked great so I could go on one awesome date with the hubs doing this:

Kids Say the Darndest Things

2012-01-06T23:24:00.000-08:00

There were so many student comments on this outfit and hairdo! Asking if I was channeling Princess Leah wins 2nd favorite, and telling me, "You look great- just like a horse trainer!" I think wins.

Gray Skinnies: Old Navy, Boots: Last Chance, Striped Shirt: F21, Jacket: Loft, Earrings: Custom made

Brilliant!

2012-01-05T09:03:00.000-08:00

I can't believe it's taken me this long to copy other bloggers who wear dresses as shirts. Women- you are brilliant!

Dress worn as shirt: Target, Skirt: Gap, thrifted, Boots: Last Chance, Belt: Gap, Cardi: Loft

Texture

2012-01-04T20:07:00.000-08:00

Jacket: Ann Taylor Loft, Dress: Romy, Shoes: Target, Tights: JC Penny

Happy New Year!

2012-01-01T22:41:00.000-08:00

There is just something about New Year's Eve parties that scream sparkle to me! It's like the night you get a license to wear as much bling as you want. I guess you could say I went minimal this year...but this is still a ton of bling for me. Oh and I had to include the tree as it's the last night it will be up. Anyone else get super sad the day they take the tree down?

Jeans: Old Navy, Shoes: Target, Shirt: Gap, thrifted, Sparkly Tank: F21, Jacket: ?, Earrings: Old Navy

My Christmas Getup

2011-12-28T15:50:00.000-08:00

This was what I wore to church on Christmas Day. I try to be somewhat festive without looking like I just came from an ugly sweater party. Anyone else with me there?

Skirt: Thrifted, Tights: Kohls, Jacket: Anthro, Shirt: Loft, Pin: Made by Mom, Shoes: Last Chance

Reds and Gold

2011-12-27T20:32:00.000-08:00

Jacket: Thrifted, $3, Jeans: Gifted, Belt: F21, $2 Shoes: Last Chance, $15, Shirt: NY&Co $8

Black and White and Red All Over

2011-12-14T08:01:00.000-08:00

Shirt: Target, Cardi and Pants: Gap, Shoes: Last Chance, Belt: F21

A Modern Classic

2011-12-13T19:57:00.000-08:00

I'm doing all I can to space out the chambray shirt wearings. The limit is once a week. I just can't get enough!

Pants, Shirt, and Belt: Gap, Shoes: Nine West, Cardi and Necklace: AE

Holiday Party-ing

2011-12-12T05:02:00.000-08:00

Jean: BR, $20, Shoes: Last Chance, $20, Shirt: F21, $9, Jacket: Loft, $12, Necklace: AE, $6, Floral Pin: Hobby Lobby, $3

David Bowie, is that you?

2011-12-09T09:29:00.000-08:00

I have bronchitis. Maybe I'm the only person who does this, but to compensate for looking green and feeling terrible I tend to dress up a little more on the really sick days. I can tell my teenage students are still lovin' the 80's rocker look, because I haven't had so many compliments from students since I can remember! It was kind, it's nice to hear shallow teenagers approve, even when you look like you're trying to be David Bowie, a little green on the edges, and you feel like curling up under your desk.

Jeans: NY&Co, Snakeskin flats: AE, Shirt: Jcrew, Jacket: Aeropostale, Earrings: Gifted

Layers

2011-12-08T17:32:00.000-08:00

It literally froze this week in the nights in AZ. I am sorry for everyone else- I bet this week is downright frigid everywhere else. The only good news- a great excuse to layer!

Skirt: Last Chance, Under-t:Shade, Floral shirt: BR, Sweater: AE, Belt:F21, Boots: Last Chance

Holiday Concert

2011-12-05T17:56:00.000-08:00

This is what you get for marrying an energy engineer who buys very eco friendly light bulbs that take about 30 minutes to full light up. At least he's willing to take pics these days, and at least he's cute!
We are having a lot of fun getting dressed up for some holiday dates lately. This one was for one amazing choral/orchestra performance at our city's art center. We loved it, and we loved pulling out some warm stuff for colder weather!

Jeans: Tommy, Shoes: Last Chance, Shirt: Anthopologie, Blazer: BR Outlet, Earrings: Self-made

On Both Shoulders

2011-12-04T20:29:00.000-08:00

Cardi: Old Navy, Shirt; Anthro, Skirt: Thrifted, Tights: Kohls, Shoes: Target

Tights Season

2011-12-01T12:15:00.000-08:00

Skirt: Romy, Tights: NY&Co, Shoes: Kohls, Shirt: Anthro, Earrings: NY&Co

In Touch With My Roots

2011-11-30T14:52:00.000-08:00

I have a great, great, great, great, great (and maybe even one or two more) grandmother who is Native American. Rumor has it that's where the dark hair come from with a family of all blondes. I like my hair, I like my slightly darker skin, I like that she and her husband broke the cultural norm. This probably explains my obsession with Native American jewelry. I think I was channeling her with the colors, necklace, and the braid today.

Thanksgiving Date Night

2011-11-27T21:37:00.000-08:00

Shirt: Anthro Black Friday sale, $10, Necklace: Anthro, $10, Boots: Last Chance, $20, Jeans: LEI, $10

An Equestrian Feminine Attempt

2011-11-17T20:06:00.000-08:00

Shirt: Old Navy, thrifted, $3, Belt: Gap, Boots: Last Chance, $20, Skirt: Loft, Necklace: F21

One Step Away From a Poodle Skirt

2011-11-11T07:43:00.000-08:00

I was feeling the 50's today.
Skirt: Anthro, $30, Shirt: AE, Cardi: Shade, $20, Pin: Hobby Lobby, $3, Earrings: NY&Co, $3

My Thrifting Miracle

2011-11-10T16:06:00.000-08:00

I've wanted a denim/chambray shirt for a while now, but it has been a popular item and somewhat difficult to find lately. I coveted the GAP 1969 line this summer, particularly the denim shirts. I just couldn't bring myself to pay $60 for a shirt so I passed. It sold out before it was marked down much, and I kept telling myself patience and thrifting would pan out eventually. Then, one magical day I went to get something for my Dolly Parton Halloween costume, and I saw a denim shirt that looked like it just may work. Imagine the joy and me wanting to heel click when I realized it was the Gap 1969 I had wanted IN MY SIZE! It's a thrifting miracle!
And if I wear it a couple days a week please don't judge me too harshly!

Shirt: My Thrifting Miracle, $6, Skirt: Anthro, $20, Belt: Gap, Cardi: AE, Boots: Last Chance, $20

First Tights of the Season

2011-11-07T22:22:00.000-08:00

Scarf: Target, Skirt: Rampage, Shirt: BR, Tights and Shoes: Kohls

3 for 1

2011-10-27T06:45:00.000-07:00

Sometimes you just take so many pictures and they all look bad. Sometimes you have to settle for just one decent one. Let's all remember that one post where I broke my own format.....

Skirt and Jacket: Anthro, Shoes; nine West, Shirt: Rampage

Celia Foote

2011-10-26T08:54:00.000-07:00

Thank you Celia Foote and one amazing book turned movie for this outfit and some serious inspiration!

Dress and Cardi: Target, Belt: F21, Shoes: Last Chance

Ruffled!

2011-10-25T20:34:00.000-07:00

Shirt: Anthropologie, Skirt: Charlotte Russe, Shoes: Famous Footwear, Belt: Loft, Watch: Last Chance

Impromtu Weeknight Date

2011-10-19T06:52:00.000-07:00

When you're just home from the gym and have 30 minutes to get ready for your impromptu weeknight date, things like this happen.
Jeans: Wal-mart, $10, Shirt: Last Chance, $6, Blazer: F21, About $18, Scarf: Random mall store years and years ago

Swiping Family Picture Ideas

2011-10-17T07:31:00.000-07:00

My sister-in-law called me asking for help with family pictures and explained navy and yellow would be the main colors they would be wearing. I just couldn't get the color combo out of my mind and decided to create my own look for their family pictures. I won't actually go, don't worry, I'm quirky, but not that weird.

Dress: Converse via Target, Cardi: Shade, Belt: F21, Shoes: Target, Necklace: Self made (thank you Pinterest for new DIY ideas!)

Haboob!

2011-10-14T06:28:00.000-07:00

We have had several haboobs in AZ this year. No, I'm not being crude, that's the technical name for a dust storm that engulfs the sky. I've watched it turn from day to night by a storm in seconds. This was a pre-haboob storm that wasn't making my camera very happy and the flash and zoom kept doing weird things. Nonetheless, I got one clear full body shop. Sometimes I settle. Also, somedays (as evidenced above) I don't wear makeup. Probably the combo of the two wasn't so great, but at least I was happy with the outfit!

Jeans: Loft, $10, Scarf: Target, $10ish, Shirt: Anthro, $20, Shoes: Payless, $10

Squints

2011-10-12T12:00:00.000-07:00

I promise I'm not grumpy, it's just really really bright out!

Dress: Last chance, Belt: F21, Cardi and shoes: Target, Scarf: Thrifted

Neon Spirt Day

2011-10-10T06:19:00.000-07:00

Sometimes at work we're given some flack for not dressing up on spirit week. However, sometimes teachers don't do it because it's so hard to look professional. I obviously care big time about the latter. I think my profession sparked my interest in fashion more than anything else. I'm judged by how I dress, like it or not, but I also know I have the potential to look 18 and get asked for my hall pass or assert myself as the authority. I tried hard to dress up some for Homecoming week. Thank you NY&Co for the neon shirt, without it, this day would have been rough!

Skirt: Thrifted, $3 Shirt: NY&Co, $12 Cardi: H&M, $10 Shoes: Target, $3.50

Ode to the home decor mag

2011-10-07T08:27:00.000-07:00

Isn't it sometimes amazing where outfit inspiration comes from? Home decor magazine, thanks for showing gray rooms with small pops of mustard!
Shirt: NY&Co, Skirt: Romy, Belt: F21, Shoes: Target

Proof of Pants

2011-10-06T10:48:00.000-07:00

I've been asked lately if I ever wear pants anymore. Looking at my last posts and the few I have to do I realized the short-sleeves and skirt have been my staple the past few hot months. I do wear pants, just usually on casual Friday where I haven't put much together or for date night. I always forget to take pictures before date night, sadly because I actually do my hair and makeup for these which isn't always the case for work, but there are those rare occasions where the venue you're hanging at has a hula hoop contest and your friends happen to snap a picture of you. There you go, proof of pants, and one post where I got away from my standard picture poses.

Jeans: Wal-mart $10 (back before skinnies were cool and they were desperate to sell), Shirt: F21, $21, Cardi: Target, $12, Scarf worn as belt: sister's Goodwill pile, Shoes: Target, $13

A-line Love

2011-10-03T09:29:00.000-07:00

I feel like the A-line skirt has been making a comeback lately. They have been so much easier to find lately! For someone with a total pear shaped body I simply couldn't be more thrilled!

Skirt: Anthro, $20, Shirt: Last Chance, $6, Shoes: Payless, $16, Earrings: NY&Co, $3

Sometimes I Rock the Teacher Look

2011-09-29T17:44:00.000-07:00

Card: Target, Cami: Shade, Skirt: Ross, Shoes: Famous Footwear

Breaking Some Rules

2011-09-28T06:20:00.000-07:00

Hot Fall week= I'm still wearing white whenever I feel like it.
Dress: Buffalo Exchange, Belt: Thrifted, Necklace: eBay, Shoes: Target

Starting the Fall Colors

2011-09-27T06:22:00.000-07:00

Shirt: Gap, Skirt: Last Chance, Shoes: Burlington Coat Factory, Belt: Ann Taylor Loft

Anthro in Beverly Hills Has My Heart

2011-09-26T06:14:00.000-07:00

Shirt: BR Outlet, $10, Skirt: Anthropologie, $10 (my recent trip to L.A. so paid off, you can't beat the sales rack at Beverly Hills), Shoes: Latin Market, $6, Necklace: Self-made

Pattern Mixing 101

2011-09-21T22:37:00.000-07:00

I LOVE a good pattern mix up! Sometimes I go bold, sometimes I stick to the 101 lesson and keep colors in the same family. It was the parent's anniversary and they invited me and all 5 of my siblings and their spouses. It was a party, but one that called for some classy fun. Of course my mind goes straight to pattern mixing!

Skirt: BR outlet, Shirt, Cardigan, and Shoes: Target, Earrings: Icing

Not Quite Ready

2011-09-19T21:54:00.000-07:00

Ever have those shots you're just not ready for? I think they happen to me daily!

Sweater: NY&Co, Belt: Loft, Shirt: Downeast Outfitters, Skirt: Anthropologie, Shoes: Burlington Coat Factory

Pop of Orange

2011-09-16T16:28:00.000-07:00

Loving redorange and navy right now!

Skirt: Target, Shoes: Latin Market, Jacket: F21, Shirt: BR

Welcome Fall!

2011-09-06T21:04:00.000-07:00

We dropped down to around 100 instead of 100-teens. It's fall in my book!

skirt: Thrifted, Shirt: Target, Jacket: Anthro, Shoes: Mall store in Utah, Earrings: Icing

Unintentional

2011-09-05T09:26:00.000-07:00

Do you ever get dressed and realize you're outfit is from one store? I swear I don't do this intentially!
Skirt, $40, Belt: $10, Shirt: $20 all from Anthropologie, Shoes; Target, $13

Pleats and Peach

2011-09-02T20:06:00.000-07:00

I recently read The Help and decided the scene where Abilene has to iron all the pleats for Elizabeth didn't turn me off from pleats, in fact, had the opposite impact.

Skirt: NY&Co, Shoes: Nine West, Shirt: BR Outlet, Undershirt: Downeast Basics, Necklace: NY&Co, Belt: Thrifted

Embellished Orange

2011-08-29T18:10:00.000-07:00

The Coral Shirtdress

2011-08-23T16:11:00.000-07:00

Dress: Anthro, $20, Shoes: Mall Store, $7, Necklace: NY&Co, $4, Belt: F21, $2.50

Authority

2011-08-20T16:30:00.000-07:00

I was told in college to dress in red or black the first day of school if you teach high school or junior high because it lets students know you are an authority figure. I know that sounds funny, but even pushing 30 I still get asked for my hall pass. So, low and behold, in 111 degrees this was what the authority figure in me told me to wear day 1.

Shirt: Loft, Skirt: BR, Shoes: Last Chance, Pearls: Charming Charlie

Brights

2011-08-15T05:34:00.000-07:00

Shirt: BR Outlet, $10, Skirt: NY&Co, $22, Belt: Thrifted, $2, Necklace: Black Market Minerals, $2, Shoes: Mudd

The Sailor Inspiration Dress

2011-08-11T21:04:00.000-07:00

Dress: Target $13, Wedges: Last Chance, $20, Necklace: Charlotte Russe, $6

The Last Days of Freedom

2011-08-04T16:23:00.000-07:00

Keepin' real and casual before I go back to work.

Skirt: Self made, Shirt: Loft, $10, Shoes: Teva, Necklace: Charming Charlie

Primary Colors

2011-08-01T19:46:00.000-07:00

Dress: Target $13, Shoes: Mall Store $20, Cardigan: NY&Co

Knit Dreams

2011-07-27T19:36:00.000-07:00

I'm ready for summer to end, I'm ready to see temps below 100+ degrees, and I'm especially ready to get my cardigan and jacket on soon. Until then I have decided to sew my own light weight stuff that is higher quality. So ta-da, sewing project #1, a gray knit skirt. It cost about $3 to buy the patter, $2 for a yard of fabric, and 20 minutes on a sewing machine. I was amazed that an amateur like me could pull off a skirt that fast. Here's to hoping it doesn't fall apart! :)

Skirt: Self-made, $2, Heels: Nine west, $20, Shirt: Anthropologie, $20, Necklace: F21, $8

Some Crazy Weather

2011-07-19T10:32:00.000-07:00

Did you hear about the Haboob in Phoenix? If not just Google it, there's a story on CNN about it today. It's made a lovely mess of dust all over the state. It's also made a lovely mess trying to take pictures with crazy wind flaring up at random times.

Skirt: F21, $5.50, Belt: F21, $2, Shirt: Old Navy, $8, UnderT: Mia Bellina half cap shirt, $15 Shoes: Latin Market, $2, Necklace, F21, $8

Dream Big

2011-07-18T13:51:00.000-07:00

I didn't think finding your favorite style dress for $20 at Anthropologie was possible. I guess this post goes to show you that fashion dreams do come true.

Dress: Anthro, $20, Shoes; Target, Belt: Vintage thrifted, $1, Tank: Downeast Basics

Interview Attire

2011-07-13T10:04:00.000-07:00

So we hit some record highs lately, my temperature gauge would not stop reading 120 the other day- such a hot summer! I've been lucky to have a few interviews during my job search, I guess this economy really is as bad as CNN Money makes it out to be. I'm still hoping and praying some management positions open up and I get to utilize the degree. At least there have been some signs of hope for me.
Looking at my suit and thinking of the heat makes me want to cry. SO I've tried to adapt with some summer suit alternatives for interviews, this is what I wore to my last one.
Dress: Ann Taylor, Jacket: Ann Taylor Loft, Brooch: F21, Heels: Nine West

Floral + Menswear

2011-07-11T15:27:00.000-07:00

I absolutely love mixing some menswear with feminine touches!

Blazer: Old Navy, $8, Floral Button-Up: Anthropologie, $20, Jeans: NY&Co, $20, Heels: Target, $5

Some Patriotism

2011-07-06T10:38:00.000-07:00

Do you know how I knew I was marrying an absolute winner? At Christmas time I went shopping with the fiance and found this amazing blue and white striped cardigan with ruffles at Anthropologie. I told him if a piece of clothing embodied my style it was this cardigan. However, even the sales tag was way above my price range for one piece that isn't a basic- $50. I put it back on the shelf, found the skirt I was looking for in my size and went to the dressing room. Meanwhile, the fiance ran to the cashier and ordered the cardigan in my size. You have better believe Christmas morning I was the most surprised and flattered girl in the world!
So there is the story of my favorite cardigan. It works well all seasons and I was thrilled for this patriotic look. PS sorry for the back shot, not my most flattering angle, but I wanted to show the cool styling in the cardi.

Skirt: Target, $8, Shoes: Target, $5, Cardigan: Gifted :), Shirt: Downeast Basics, $10, Belt: F21, $2, Necklace: Charlotte Russe, $6, Earrings: Old Navy, $3 clearance

Date Night

2011-07-05T15:00:00.000-07:00

The hubs and I have another blog dedicated to date nights- we think it's one of the most important things you can do in a marriage to stay in love and keep things fun and not just become business partners. It's been a fun little project to keep us accountable for every Friday. We take turns planning the date, and usually surprise the other with what we're going to do. I never know what to wear on his nights- I mean a dress and heels don't work hiking, and I hate to dress down because sometimes we head to nice places. I was pumped when he leaked the idea early- we went and test drove some really awesome cars way out of our budget. I figured dressing on the "I appear to be fancier than a 20 something" was the way to go. AND I got to wear a skirt! We're reaching the 100-teens in AZ, so skirts are becoming the staple!

Skirt: Ross, $6, Shirt: NY&Co, about $12 after coupon, Cardigan: Target, $8, Shoes: Teva, $20, Earrings: gifted, Hairpin: H&M, $2

AND I've been trying some new updos in the heat. This one came from here.

Networking Night

2011-06-28T10:45:00.000-07:00

Hot on a job search, I've been attending a lot of networking events and meeting a lot of cool people! I've been trying to mix business with the creative side of my wardrobe, since that is what I'm hoping to do professionally. It's a fun task to get the conservative business wardrobe pieces to wake up just a little, I have a feeling if I get hired in the industry I want, I'll be embarking on a fun new fashion challenge!

Pants: Gap, Shoes: Target, Cardi: Anthro, Under-t: Shade, Scarf: Random mall store years ago

Summer "Suit"

2011-06-24T08:20:00.000-07:00

I sometimes wonder why I live in a place that had a high of 112 this week. Don't worry, I'll remember again in the winter. On those days the need to dress up for work/church/interviews just makes me want to cry when I look at my black suit. I'm trying to find some nice alternatives that won't make my internal organs when I go outside.

Dress: Buffalo Exchange, $12, Cardigan and Cami: Shade, Shoes: Target, $3.24, Belt: Thrifted

Summer Lovin'

2011-06-20T12:42:00.000-07:00

The truth: I'm actively looking for a job outside of teaching, but I may have to teach one more year even post MBA. I am trying to tell myself to enjoy summer instead of stress. I'm also trying to tell myself applying for jobs in your pajamas all day isn't cool. So here is attempt #1 at dressing up my summer casual wardrobe.

Skirt: F21 via Buffalo Exchange, Shirt: Jcrew, $20, Shoes: Target, Belt: F21, Earrings: Kohls

Wait! There's a Cardigan...

2011-06-16T06:44:00.000-07:00

Do you ever snap pictures after work and then think, oh wait, I had something else with this? Maybe you grab your bag or put your shoes back on, I remember that cardigans are wore the first half of the day and then it's so hot by afternoon they come off. That is AZ in the summer for you!

Skirt: Wal-mart, gift from Mom and then reshaped and restyled by Mom, Belt: NYCo, Shoes: Mall store in Utah, Shirt: H&M, Cardigan: AE

Triad Colorwheel

2011-06-13T23:13:00.000-07:00

Cardigan:H&M, $10, Dress: Banana Republic Outlet, $12, Belt: Thrifted, $2, Shoes: Payless, around $16

Summer Dresses

2011-06-09T13:51:00.000-07:00

Hello summer dresses, it's nice to see you again!

Dress: BCBGMAXAZRIA via Buffalo Exchange, $24, Under T: Downeast Basics, $10, Shoes: NY&Co, $13, Belt: NY&CO, $8, Necklace: Made by me

Untraditional Shades of Primary Colors

2011-06-07T08:45:00.000-07:00

Shirt: Last Chance, $6, Skirt: Latin Market, $10, Shoes: NY&Co $13, Belt: NY&Co, about $8, Earrings: Old Navy, $3 clearance

The Summer Blazer

2011-06-03T05:18:00.000-07:00

This is a key summer piece for me, preppy, a little casual, and versitile. Did I mention lightweight? I can't live without it! What are some of your summer pieces you can't do without for work?

Jacket: F21, Shirt, H&M, Jeans: Loft, Shoes: Target, Earings: NY&Co

Workin My Boyfriends

2011-06-02T14:25:00.000-07:00

I have grabbed the boyfriend jeans more than any other this season, note how many posts with them in the last 4 weeks!

Jeans: Aeropostale (of all places), Shoes: Target, Belt and Necklace: F21, Cardigan and flower pin: NY&Co, Tank: Shade

One of My Signature looks

2011-06-01T07:22:00.000-07:00

Isn't it amazing what a matching belt and pair of heels can do?

Shirt: NY&Co, Pants and Belt: Gap, Shoes: Nine West, Necklace: Lia Sophia via Ebay

That's a Wrap

2011-05-31T22:37:00.000-07:00

I dont' usually frequent Kmart, but when I went one day I saw this wrap dress and knew it was a classic I had been looking for but never able to find until that moment. It has served me well for about 6 years now!

Dress: kmart, $20, Shoes: Last Chance, $20, Tank: Downeast Basics, $10, Flower Pin: Made by and gifted from Mom

Last few days as a Teacher

2011-05-27T08:16:00.000-07:00

It's almost summer, and I am dressing the part of a teacher while I still can!
Cardigan: NY&Co, Skirt: Gap thrifted, Polo: Gap, Necklace: AE, Shoes: Target

The Splurge Shirt

2011-05-26T15:33:00.000-07:00

First of all, thanks for all the sweet comments! It gets easier and easier to share as I've found so much support and love in this world. I am grateful for awesome readers and friends!

Last year I acquired this shirt from Anthropologie for more $ than I typically spend in one trip. I can do $50 once a year right? Even a shopper on the cheap needs a splurge, so long as it's not too often :)
Shirt: Anthro, $50, Dress Capri: Last Chance, $12, Shoes: Teva, $20, Undershirt: Coverwear, $20

Graduation & The Guts to Reveal My Life Story

2011-05-22T07:58:00.000-07:00

Guess what I finally got to get dressed in? I can hardly believe that 2 years have come and gone and that I am officially an MBA graduate! It's been a tough 2 years sleeping only 4-5 hours a night while working as a teacher and going to class/studying all afternoon into the late hours of the night.

I'm applauding any/all readers who have patiently stayed with me during this random posting period in my life. You are SO amazing! Thanks for keeping me in the blogging world even when there was so little time!

Forgive me for getting personal, but I actually feel really strongly that I should. If I can share this with one person and inspire them, it is all worth it! I don't usually open up a lot about my life online, just my fashion finds, but I think blogging has made such a positive serious impact on my life I want to be sentimental for a moment. I started Igetdressed in 2009, just as I decided to study for the GMAT and make some serious life changes. At the ripe age of 26 I was going through a divorce after living with an abusive husband who constantly told me I wasn't good enough, pretty enough, and particularly smart enough. A masters degree had always been a dream of mine, but a dream that was crushed as I graduated from my bachelors and was married.
I don't think anyone goes into an abusive relationship knowing it will end up that way. I thought my ex was amazing, and so did all my family and friends. It took a few years with a lot of damage to my self-esteem to discover he was living a double life full of affairs, debts, and serious pornography addictions. I am someone who believes marriage is eternal and I did my best to stick it out even though it was constantly getting worse. When I discovered he had lied about attending college that I personally paid his tuition on and had withdrawn and pocketed money, I knew something was seriously wrong. My life was threatened and I felt manipulated to stay with him .
I feel God saved me by letting him join the military and me moving to AZ to be near family to see that someone threatening and abusing was indeed what was taking place. He was having an affair too, which I caught, and he immediately abandoned me.
I was a victim, in the worst degree with a completely broken and shattered life at only age 26. I felt so alone, and so trapped in a negative life that I did not choose.

But one day I looked at my life and thought "I'm not going to be a victim, I'm going to be a success. I'm not going to let him ruin me anymore!" I decided to dream big, and business school was a big dream for any woman as the minority, but particularly for someone who had been through so much abuse in every form. After filing for divorce I started studying for the GMAT, and I started this blog to encourage myself I was worthwhile, and honestly to make friends at the lowest point of my life. I bombed the GMAT the first time and thought life was over again. I had a friend tell me that if I wasn't willing to do all it took, I didn't deserve my dream. Harsh words, but SO true! Knowing that 90% of people who re-take one month later get the same score or lower, I risked it. It paid off- I earned a MUCH higher score and was admitted to a top 30 University within weeks! I chose ASU to be close to family as I healed.

It's amazing what 2 years can do! I am happily re-married (something I never expected or knew I even wanted until Mr. Perfect came along), I am jumping into my dream career, and I have so much self-esteem knowing I conquered the demons someone else put in my path. I know education is so important, and I honestly believe it is a achievable, even if it takes years to get into the school or program you want.

I hope there is at least one reader out there who knows they can overcome those demons that tell women we aren't pretty enough, smart enough, good enough, etc. and know that YOU CAN DO ANYTHING IF YOU PUT YOUR MIND TO IT! You can heal from divorce, you can go to Harvard, you can be the greatest Mom, you can love again, you can be beautiful at any body size/shape, and you can be so happy!

Thanks again for all the readers old and new who have supported me in my lowest time of life, and have cheered my recent marriage and graduation. I love the positivity in blogging, and from personal experience I can tell you, it's so needed in this world!

Prom Chaperone

2011-05-22T06:58:00.000-07:00

The husband and I chaperoned Prom, we went with Madmen as our inspiration. He's in a skinny tie, trust me, but I spared him and cropped him out. Naturally we made as many goofy/awkward Prom poses as we could for pictures.

Once again the theory of buy a formal when it's crazy cheap and you don't need it cause you may came in handy. $12.97 at Last Chance at the end of last summer has served me well!

Shoes: Kohls, Dress: Last Chance, Necklace: Charming Charlies, Earrings: NY&Co

Spring Breeze

2011-05-21T16:07:00.000-07:00

We're in that time of year, not quite hot, definitely no longer cold. I love playing with my transitional pieces and throwing my summer/fall (we don't have winter in AZ) stuff together.

Jacket: Loft, Shirt: Last Chance, $6, Jeans: Silver, gifted, Shoes: Target

Senorita

2011-05-19T09:11:00.000-07:00

I have to admit this was worn a few weeks ago and I never found time to post it. Thank you Cinco de Mayo for the inspiration!

Dress: Downeast basics, Cardigan: Shade, Shoes: Target, $3.50, Belt: F21 $2, Earrings: Icing

The Day The Camera Didn't Want Me In The Picture

2011-05-17T21:14:00.000-07:00

My camera really didn't want my face in the pictures I took this day. It's okay, still got most of the outfit, and you're really not missing much :)

Jeans: NY&Co, Tank: F21, Cardigan: Target, Earrings: Anchor Blue, Shoes: Teva, REI

Summer Camp

2011-05-17T10:02:00.000-07:00

Lofers remind me of some prep school summer camp movie, and I think that's where this outfit sprung from.

Shoes: Name Brand Shoes, Short: H&M, Shirt: JC Penny, Cardigan: Gap, Earrings: Gifted

Monochromatic Stripes

2011-05-17T07:30:00.000-07:00

I like mixing patterns. I always think I'm taking some huge risk with business clothes, but when monochromatic, it really helps me see it's not so crazy like I may think. It's hard to tell, but the shirt has stripes and the purple tie belt somehow worked.

shirt: Old Navy, Skirt: NY&Co, Belt: Aeropostale (I think, it's old), Shoes: Target

Family Crest

2011-05-16T15:33:00.000-07:00

Somewhere in my geneology there are a few lines of English folk, and I guess the family crest which displays blue and mustard stood out in my mind. It's always been a color combo love that makes me feel professional and maybe even a little royal!

Dress: Loft, Cardigan: NY&CO, Shoes: Target. Scarf: Vintage thrifted (at JetRag in LA), Cami: Shade

White Lace

2011-05-12T08:00:00.000-07:00

Shirt: Anthropologie, T: Downeast Basics, Necklace: F21, Jeans: An Taylor Loft, Shoes: NY&Co

Time to Invest in an Iron

2011-05-11T06:22:00.000-07:00

Confession: I like ironing, I just haven't done it in about 2 years

Skirt: Old Navy, Boots and Cardigan: Last Chance, Shirt: Ann Taylor Loft

Color Combo Love

2011-05-10T06:22:00.000-07:00

Light blue+Orange, you are winning my heart right now like crazy!

Cardigan: Gap, T: Shade, Shoes: Payless, Necklace: Charlotte Russe

Fondue Date Night

2011-05-09T15:07:00.000-07:00

I decided to celebrate our 2 months of being married I would re-create The Melting Pot experience at home. It took a few easy recipes, lots of chopping, and a picnic set up in our living room to create a really awesome date at home. I needed something I felt cute in, could cook in, and could sit cross-legged on the floor. I think overall the date was a success, and the outfit did what I needed!

Shirt: F21, $21, Jeans: Aeropostale, about $20, Cardigan: NY&Co, Shoes; REI

The Simple Things

2011-05-08T11:58:00.000-07:00

Shirt: JCrew via Buffalo Exchange, Skirt: Target, Belt: Thrifted, Shoes: Famous Footwear, Watch: Fossil, Earrings: Kohls, Headband: Made by Me

Shocked

2011-05-07T12:58:00.000-07:00

My camera must have been shocked by this outfit, it was on the same setting with a timer for all three pics, but it just wanted to do color, clarity, and lighting different. Don't worry, it's back to its steady ways now. Shirt: NY&Co, Skirt: H&M, Shoes: Target, Scarf: Thrifted, Earrings: Made by me

Color Combo Channel

2011-04-26T06:32:00.000-07:00

I had a student tell me recently "You used to play with color a lot more in your wardrobe" out of the blue. It made me realize that I am a blue/khaki/gray fan, but when I look back to pictures from 2 years ago I really go into color combos. I channeled my old self, and I was happy with color combo I came up with. SO happy that I wore this for some of our engagement pictures.

Skirt/cardigan: NY&Co, Shoes: Last Chance, Shirt: Banana Republic, Feather Pin: Loft

Ode to Tie

2011-04-25T21:51:00.000-07:00

My husband, back when he was my fiance, helped me move a bunch of clothes to his house one weekend just before the wedding, and he said shocked, "Um you dropped one of your...ties?" Yes, I love ties. Silky cool patterns on something I can tie around my waist- you bet! I love thrifting ties, I always think of the cool stories that must come from each tie: Maybe a lover gifted it, maybe it went to a job interview, maybe a historical event was witnessed, maybe a job was completed, maybe a tie sat in a closet and listened to someone's life unfold- who really knows? Either way, I have some obsession with this men's accessory and I am proud to own a few myself!

Dress: Target, Tank: Shade, Shoes: Last Chance, Tie: Goodwill, Cardigan: NY&Co

The Shirtdress That Almost Got Away

2011-04-22T14:11:00.000-07:00

I had this in my "to toss" pile as I moved in the husband. When I looked at it again I kept thinking how hard it is to find shirtdresses, and how it really is a classic piece I just needed to get a little more creative with. I know, boots, belt, sweater, not crazy creative, but a few changes spiced it up! It's staying now!

Boots: Last Chance, Sweater: Anthropologie, Belt and Dress: Target

To the Country

2011-04-19T21:27:00.000-07:00

One thing I love about where I live is that I'm 30 minutes from the 5th largest city in the US, and I'm 30 minutes from small town western life. I live in the middle, I love it. Today I channeled the small town I teach in, the rodeo is coming up afterall!

Skirt: Old Navy, Scarf: Mall store, Shoes: Target, Sirt: Hollister

Confessions of an MBA Student

2011-04-17T12:40:00.000-07:00

Hi I'm Camille, and although I love color, I have an obsession with khaki and blue. Preppy classic business casual makes me feel better than any other outfit or combo. I'm trying to go back to the color crazed girl I was two years ago, but deep down outfits like these are truly my favorite. What can I say, I am an MBA student- blue and khaki can been seen in swarms in every single class I've attended!
Phew, that felt good to get off my chest! I will return to color soon, but today, I'm going to enjoy what may be my new favorite outfit.
Skirt: BR, via Buffalo exchange, Striped shirt: H&M, Necklace: Loft, Shoes: Nine West, Belt: thrifted

Can't Let Go

2011-04-15T10:38:00.000-07:00

Do you have a piece of clothing you just can't part with? Until I find another A-line skirt in denim I can't let this one go- even if I am 3 sizes smaller now.

Skirt/Shirt: Old Navy, Boots: Last Chance, Belt: Target

Career Counselor

2011-04-12T10:12:00.000-07:00

I had the day off work and spent some time with my career counselor- I graduate in less than 2 months, I'm on the job hunt! It was a casual day for me and I had a hot lunch date with the husband, but I still wanted to look like a professional as I had my resume combed, my linkedin updated, and my hopes and dreams discussed. Jeans: Loft, $10, Shirt: Downeast Basics $10, Jacket: F21 $21, Necklace: NY&Co, $6, Shoes: Kohls, $8

Suit Alternative

2011-04-11T10:41:00.000-07:00

Cardigan and T: Target, Belt: F21, Skirt: Ann Taylor via Goodwill, Shoes: Last Chance

Dinner Party With the Boss

2011-04-07T10:45:00.000-07:00

I went with the husband to a company dinner party- and sometimes I think it's hard to know the dress code for these events! We weren't alone, many seemed over-dressed, some under-dressed. I think I achieved a happy medium.

Cardigan: Anthropologie, $20 score!, Skirt: Ann Taylor via Goodwill, $2, Boots: Last Chance, $40, Cardigan: Shade, $10, Earrings: made by me