budget savvy: target style

{Peplum Top | Polka Dot Pleated Chiffon Top | Black Polka Dot Top | Envelope Clutch | Camel Blazer | Boucle Jacket | Navy Sweater Cape  | Leopard Pants | Plaid Gloves | Tartan Scarf | Orange Wedges}

Okay let's chat a little about Target shall we? Target is a really hard place to shop because let's face it we all go to Target for our "necessities" but then we end up in the clothing section grabbing things we don't really need. At least for me, more often than not Target ends up being the place where I make a lot of impulsive buys.

I've been trying to think about how to curb that because of this whole budget thing I've got going on. Now when I go to Target I do one of two things. I either purchase a classic piece for less...think blazers and sweaters. Or I buy an item that is on trend but in a classic silhouette or color...think leopard pants and peplum tops. For instance, I'm seeing sweater capes everywhere but for more than $100. That's a time when Target comes in handy for me.

Now if I'm honest with myself, the clothing section is not my only nemesis at Target. The accessory aisle can be just as hard on my wallet. And this is where I buy things I definitely don't need or hardly ever wear. I'm keeping the basics here...a clutch, a pair of gloves, a classic plaid scarf and wedge heels. I think Target is an amazing place to buy clutches. I don't usually buy handbags there because I never really use them. But a clutch on the other hand is a great purchase because I can get something fun and funky without spending a lot of money. And I will actually use it.

Tell me how do you guys navigate Target? Do you have a system? If so, please share!

On a totally unrelated note, those leopard pants are making my heart go pitter patter. I am so in love with them!

Linking up with Current Crush and Loves on a Thursday.

fall loves!

Since I am on a spending freeze right now, I am trying to keep tabs on what I want/need so that when I have money I can direct it toward things that I really love. As a result, I have started an email to myself that lists everything and then I can prioritize those items based on the amount of money I have available. Right now this is what I am really loving for fall. Are you in love with any of these?

1) Penfield Kasson Parka, Madewell, $185- I am in the market for a coat right now. I want one that will function for most of winter (except for the really cold days) and cute at the same time. I absolutely love the color of this one.

2) Gap Neon Animal Print Scarf, Gap, $29.95- I saw an outfit recently that was all black except for a pop in the neon scarf. I absolutely loved it. This one would be perfect and if I caught it when the 30 percent off sale is going on, it wouldn't be too bad for the budget.

3) Marquess Fleur Bracelet, J. Crew, $88- This bracelet is just gorgeous. I am so in love with it. Granted it probably won't make the budget cut, but that doesn't mean I can't admire it.

4) House of Harlow Sunburst Button Earrings, Zappos, $30- I love these beauties! I am such a stud person. I wear them all the time, so this is a good buy for me.

5) Animal print peplum top, Dorothy Perkins, $28.00- Animal print and peplum what better combo is there! I adore this top and know it would be on heavy rotation in my closet. And you can't beat the price.

6) Delicately Designed Colorblock Dress, ShopRuche.com, $45.99- I don't wear dresses much but this one is so very cute. I love everything about it.

7) Hacking Jacket in Herringbone, J. Crew, $198- Let's face it...this is probably out of my budget. But my oh my it is gorgeous. And the color is just perfect for the season.

8) Grey Fluffy Bow Cardigan, Dorothy Perkins, $55- I am so, so in love with this cardi. It is super cute and because of its neutral palette it would look great with anything. Definitely high up on my must-haves.

9) Hunter Rain Boots, $135- There's nothing new about these guys. I have a black pair but I'm ready to amp up my style with this perfect red color. Imagine these boots paired with the cobalt jacket...super cute!

10) Steve Madden Troopa, Piperlime, $100- This is pretty high up on my list. I want a pair of lace-up boots and these are just perfect. I can't wait till I can splurge a little.

11) Vera Meat Got Heart, ASOS, $37.94- I have been on the hunt for a little heart ring. I think this one would pair nicely with my wedding bands. I love how dainty it is.

So those are my dream team of fall loves. If only I could snatch them all up right this minute!

Linking up with Current Crush and Loves on a Thursday today.

budget beauty buys!

So as I mentioned earlier this week, I'm on a mission to find some wallet friendly products since I myself am on a budget. I am no beauty connoisseur by any stretch of the imagination. But I do know what works for me. I have tried all of these products and they are all part of my daily regimen. Maybe you guys will find your next great product here and maybe you won't.

1) Sonia Kashuk Eye Shadow Palette in Sweet Nothings, $14.29- This is my daily eye shadow. I really only use the white, brown and grey colors but I love them. They are very subtle but have just an oomph to make your eyes stand out.

2) Sonia Kashuk Bare Minimum Pressed Powder Bronzer, $9.99- I use this year round. I like the little bit of color it gives me. I am very light skinned so bronzers can sometimes be too much and leave streaks. I hate that. This just gives me a healthy glow.

3) Essie nail polish in Chinchilly, $8- I just bought this nail polish. And I love it! It's perfect for fall and if you stink at painting nails like I do, this color is subtle enough that you won't even see the mistakes!

4) Yes to Cucumbers Soothing Eye Gel, $14.99- I just started using this product and I love the way it leaves my eyes refreshed.

5) L'oreal Infallible Lipcolor in Persistent Plum, $9.99- You guys I have been on the hunt for a perfect wine colored lipstick for this fall and this is it! I love this line of lipstick. This is the second one I've recommended and I can't recommend this color enough!

6) CoverGirl and Olay Eye Concelaer, $11.99- I keep trying eye concealers and this is the one I just keep coming back to. It's perfect for my under eye circles. It covers them without drawing attention to them.

7) Neutrogena Naturals Fresh Cleansing and Make-up Remover, $6.39- I love this face wash. I love that it's natural. I love the way it makes my face. And it really works for my skin.

8) Clearasil Adult Treatment Cream, $5.29- I have breakouts. I hate it. I can't believe I'm in my late twenties and still breaking out. But this cream helps make them go away quicker. I use it every single night in my problem areas and it works.

All of these can be found at your local drugstore or Target. What are some of your go-to products that you just can't live without?

Linking up with Current Crush today.

seriously swooning: grandma's house!

I remember when I was a kid my Grandma and Grandpa used to go to antique and resale shops ALL the time. I never understood what the big deal was.  Why buy a dirty old dish when you could buy something new? Such is the thinking of a middle schooler.

But now I get it. I love the idea of having items in my home that have a story and a history. Maybe it's because I haven't been home in awhile. Maybe it's because I just went to Grandma's house. Maybe it's because I've been shopping at antique stores. But whatever it is, I am seriously swooning over these picturesque vintage pieces. I am so in love with each of these. And I'm happy to report that I am well on my way to making each of these items mine!

So Grandma, thank you for dragging me to those antique stores. It has paid off because now I have an appreciate for all of this beauty!

1) I have been on the hunt for doilies. Preferably doilies from antique stores, not the ones that were lovingly made by my family. I'm going to (and by that I mean my mother is going to) make a runner or maybe even a tablecloth out of these beauties.  I just love this look!

2) We all know that antlers are everywhere these days. But why buy them new for $40 when you can find them for a steal at an antique store? I especially love the idea of painting them.  Very cool concept. I might try this myself although let's face it...mine will never look as good as this Etsy shop.

3) Vintage scales are on my mind these days.  I don't know what it is about them but I have to have one. I'm very picky though. A lot of them just don't really hit the spot for me. This mint one is perfection.

4) My mom has collected Depression glass for as long as I can remember. She has tons of it, but she rarely uses it. I want some for myself because I think they would be great for a cocktail hour. Lucky for me my Grandma gifted be five beautiful depression glass dishes and I CANNOT wait to use them!

5) These blue Ball jars make my heart go pitter patter. I love having fresh flowers in the house but I get tired of the same boring vases. This is my new plan! I got three different jars and I'm going to use them all to make a centerpiece with fresh flowers.

6) Milk glass is everywhere. And I want it. I've been looking for a big bowl. No such luck yet. But I will find it!

7)Vintage tins are my thing. I absolutely adore everything about them. They make great vases, great storage containers and great decor!

8) Another example of a doily runner with milk glass.  Yes please!

9) This obviously is not vintage but Pinhole Press albums have a vintage look to them...no?  And I am on a mission to make a book every year with family photos. I love the look of these books.  They will look great displayed on a shelf in our home where they are accessible instead of in an old closet where they will collect dust! First off is our wedding album. Now if I can just find the time! (This is not sponsored just my humble opinion).

What do you guys think? Are you all as in love with these pieces as I am?

Linking up with Current Crush today.

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currently craving: cozy knits!

Okay don't think I'm crazy for craving some cozy knits.  It's not like I'm wishing fall away and wanting to escape into the bleak, cold of winter.  It's just that today is cold and rainy.  My feet have been freezing all day and all I want to do is escape under the covers with a hot chocolate and a warm fire.  That's not happening but still a girl can dream.

My wardrobe would like to give a home to every single one of these sweaters.  Think of pairing them with patterned button down shirts, knee high boots, and funky little knit hats.

1) Stripeblocked Sweater, Anthropologie, $98- Such a pretty sweater.  I love how it is instant style.
2) Never Too Many Cardigan, Modcloth, $74.99- I adore this beauty.  It looks straight out of an Anthropologie catalogue but without the hefty price tag.  Bows and a lace collar...done and done.
3) Altitude Adjustment Sweater, Modcloth, $62.99- If I hadn't just bought a crap load of stuff in Colorado, I would be purchasing this little pretty.  It just sings.  The pattern, the cut, the color...just perfect for bringing in fall and winter.
4) Bow Sweater, Madewell, $88- Love the funky little orange bows on this number.  Such a cute, universal piece.
5) Animal Print Sweater, Gap, $49.95- I have this sweater and it is amazing.  I love the pattern but what I love most is the feel of the sweater.  It's very cozy.  I haven't had it very long and I've already worn it 3 times!  And you can't beat the price!
6) Staring at Stars Array Cardigan, Urban Outfitters, $69- I have been drooling over this sweater since maybe mid-summer.  I absolutely adore it.  Everything about it is cool.  It is on my must-have list.
7) Inside Out Fair Isle Sweater, J. Crew, $118- What's not to love?  I love the color, the pattern and the styling!

Which one is your favorite?  Do you want them all like me?  I'm linking up with Current Crush today.

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Fall
Hot Chocolate
Winter unknown

currently crushing: colorado chic

Okay now I'm super excited. I am going to every single one of these places.  Am I lucky or what?  I am headed out to Colorado on Friday for a three week vacation.  My husband and I are taking a week (just us) to celebrate our five-year anniversary, where we will be driving to Crested Butte and Telluride. The second week we are going to Pagosa Springs with my parents.  And the third week I'm visiting family.

Most of all, I cannot wait for some quality time with my hubby.  It is going to be so much fun.  We are hoping to do some horseback riding, fly-fishing and white water rafting.

Here's my style formula for the trip.

My base will be a button-up, pants and boots.  If the temperatures drop, I'll add a cute sweater and a fun blazer to the mix. Right now I think I have eight button-ups set aside...that's not ridiculous or anything...right??

I am hoping to blog every day next week but that may prove difficult.  I will do my best though I promise!  If you don't already follow me on instagram, my username is LipsticknLollies.  I will be posting tons of up-to-date photos (hopefully like the ones above).  

Y'all I cannot freaking wait.  I mean I just have to finish my million to-do's and then I'm off!

I'm linking up with Framed Frosting today.

currently crushing: brights for fall!

Given my mood this week, I went with an upbeat current crush!  Nothing like a good dose of color to pep me up.  I'm loving that these neon colors will transition into fall, so you can wear them now in the last of summer and again as the weather cools.  And I'm telling ya, I cannot wait to pair that neon pink with a good military jacket or vest.  For some reason, neon pink and military green were just meant for each other.  I mean think about that gorgeous pink dress roughed up a little with a military jacket...here, let me just show you.

Now that's what I'm talking about.  On to the goodies.

In the yellow:

• Ponte Academy Blazer with neon trim, $88, Gap
• Luxe Jersey Striped Henley, $29.95, Gap
• Cheyenne Sweater, $59.99, Madewell
• Short Multicolored Stone Statement Necklace, $44.50, Ann Taylor Loft
• Colored Stone Statement Earrings, $29.50, Ann Taylor Loft

In the pink:

• Pink Fluoro Victoria Drops, $22, Bauble Bar
• Fluoro Boho Drops, $34, Bauble Bar
• Toothpick Cord, $98, J. Crew
• Fluid Pocket Tee, $39.95
• Peasant Dress, $59.95, Gap
• Tillary Purse, $118, J. Crew

In the cobalt:

• Plain Colored Peplum Top, $59.90, Zara
• Camden Bag, $148, Madewell
• Toothpick Jean, $125, J. Crew
• Sidewalk Skimmer, $108, Madewell

I'm linking up with Framed Frosting today.  What are you crushing on lately?

currently craving: a-thread!

Ya'll I adore this place.  I'm in love with pretty much everything they have to offer.  It's Anthro's quirkiness plus Gap's practicality plus J. Crew's style and all at a pretty affordable price tag!  This little place is a treasure.  I bought a few pieces from them and I love every...single...thing.  Here are a few more things that are on my wish list.

• Abstract pleat front blouse, $41- I am in love with this top.  There are so many great things about it...the colors, the pattern, the pleats.  This is one of those tops that you don't come across every day. 
• Black and white bold stripe skirt, $42.99- This reminds me of a J. Crew skirt.
• Hexagrey necklace, $28
• Cobalt scalloped shorts, $44
• Polka dot pullover, $62- Um hello...it's polka dots!
• Rachel birds of a feather woven top, $26.99
• Blue woven clutch, $41- This clutch is pure perfection!  I love it.  I love the shape, the detail and the pop of color.
• Bright bauble necklace, $39- Love!
• Tangerine and gold bracelet, $19
• Colorblock clutch wallet, $41- This reminds me of the color block purses at J. Crew.
• Silk floral maxi dress, $68- So pretty!
• Neon accent pullover, $57- I love, love, love this!  It's perfect for fall and winter and needs to get in my closet!

What do you think of this store and these picks?  Are you as in love as I am?  And of course I'm linking up with Framed Frosting this week.

P.S.- I get nothing from A-Thread.  I'm a just a girl who happened upon a really awesome store and wanted to share it with my really awesome readers.  

Seriously Crushing: Gap!

Sometimes Gap really wows me and I just fall in love with everything.  It's not that anything here is out of this world, but they are timeless pieces with a fresh twist--a bright orange tote, an owl print popover, a fuchsia blazer (you should check out the black one too!), peach jeans, an elephant print blouse and mustard yellow flats.  I just can't get enough of it!  You will be seeing several of these goodies appearing in my wardrobe here on the blog for sure.

1) Leather travel tote in festive orange
2) Owl print popover shirt
3) Piped academy blazer in fuschia shock
4) Flamingo ankle zip legging jeans
5) Elephant print popover shirt
6) Ornament leather ballet flats

When I do these crush posts, I really do pick items that are on my radar and on my shopping list.  I keep a running tab of pieces that I love and when a new month starts I go through my list and start shopping!

Today I'm linking up with Framed Frosting.

Currently Crush: Funky Fun Flats!

I have had a long-lasting love affair with flats (I've always had a vision one day of a rainbow colored collection of flats...silly huh?).  And lately it's becoming a problem.  I want them all!  As a mom, I want to wear cute shoes but heels are totally impractical for me, so I'm always on the lookout for a good flat.  These run the gamut.  There's one for everyone!

 1) Steven Eternnal, $119: These gorgeous red flats are amazing.  I love the spikes.  They add just a touch of edge.
2) Frankie Suede Loafers, $68- The color of these loafers is just perfect.  I could pair these beauties with a million different outfits.
3) Suede Peep Toes, $98- I have been eyeing these gorgeous flats for awhile.  I just adore the color combo.
4) Metallic Trim Pop Velvet Flat, $32.50- Look at the price of these!  They look like they should be so much more expensive.  I absolutely adore every single detail!
5) Revelry Mary Janes, $118- Okay these are absolutely amazing.  The detail, the pom pom...they are definitely my favorite of the bunch!
6) Snake Skin Loafer, $79- I also adore these.  They are the perfect mix of casual and spunk.
7) Freesia Flat, $89.99- I got these pretty little flats from DSW for less than the listed price here.  I just love every detail.
8) Patch Madames Flat, $38.99- How funky are these ones?  They are so cool and fun.  They are sure to spice up any outfit!

Which one is your favorite?

Current Crush: Stackable Rings

This is my newest obsession...stackable rings!  I don't really wear rings other than my wedding bands.  But I'm the type of girl who needs a change of pace...often.  So now I'm thinking of getting some fun stacking rings that I can pair with my wedding bands.  I think it's the most ingenious idea ever!

Here are the deets on these rings (counter-clockwise):

- Trio of rings: Endless
- Silver bands: Stella & Dot
- Gold gemstone rings: Charm & Chain
- Gold and black gemstone rings: Stella & Dot
- Simple gold rings: Etsy
- Amethyst ring: Bauble Bar
- Rose ring: Bauble Bar 
 -Gold bands: Bauble Bar
- Circle of rings: Ashley Clarke

I'm linking up with Framed Frosting today!