A Stripey Valentine's Day

It's Valentine's Week, everyone! I am saying week because while I did not have enough time to do things like decorate my house, I was thinking about other ways to subtly celebrate and have fun, while doing my best to stick with No Shop February.

Valentine's Week is extra special for me because it is also the week of my dating anniversary with Mel - it will be twenty years on February 12!

Once January was over, I sat down to evaluate why it sucked. Like I said before, it can be sad coming down from the haze and sparkle and excitement of the holidays, and there is nothing on that level to look forward to in January. But February? Valentine's day.

This year, I am actually making Valentine's for Julian's class at playschool, Galentine's for a party I am attending on Saturday, date lunch with Mel on Valentine's Day, and then after mentally going through my closet, realized that I have Valentine's related outfits for the whole week!

J.Crew January 2020 Sale Picks

J.Crew is having a big weekend sale, and some of the things I've had my eye on along with classic staples like the tissue turtlenecks and investment pieces like the Regent and sweater blazers are on sale!

These are the things I have my eye on for the future, since I am still committing to No Shop January (and window shopping is always fun, as well as styling new outfits):

(one) • (two) • (three) • (four) • (five) • (six)

One: Hooded Sweatshirt - this color just makes me so happy, I love the combination. One of my color weaknesses is definitely an orangey-red coral and this pop against the stripes is fun and classic at the same time (and while it is also in navy, I am drawn to the marine stripe). 

Two: Bell Sleeve top - I love me a good bell sleeve with a textured top and this hits all the checkboxes for me (though I would have to try it on and see how the length works). 

Three: Striped Boyfriend Sweater - I have figured out that for me, anything that is labeled as "Boyfriend" is falls into the "loose but tailored" category for me and isn't so form fitting, which is what I like. 

Four: Leopard print leggings! This would be so fun with a Dudley Stephens Park Slope or Cobble Hill Fleece. I also really like the camo too. It's a fresh change from black leggings - I'm curious to see how they are fit wise. I am glad they are high-rise! 

Five and Six: These slim-wide legs look awesome because they are a welcome departure and change from skinny jeans all the time. I am trying to diversify my pants selection, and definitely plan to try these on. They would go great with Tippi sweaters. 

With these out, it makes me definitely look forward to J.Crew in the Spring! 

No Shop January: Style Update Week 1

I have a confession to make.

During the 75FLASH sale at J.Crew yesterday, I made a purchase. I bought the Beaded Clasp sweater.

But that was it. I was tempted by other things since the prices are so good, but I stuck to what was on my list.

Black Friday: For What You Were Planning Already

Black Friday/Small Business Saturday and Cyber Monday all run up on my birthday this year, so I stocked up on long-eyed for essentials, but also treated myself a bit too. I mainly was at J.Crew because I've been shopping there for 20 years - I know the fit, the style and with only one J.Crew in my area now, I need to be a bit more watchful with what I purchase. Plus, 50% off regular prices and 60% off sale was such a good deal.

Outside my local JCrew the morning of the Pre-Black Friday event. I LOVE the outfit on the mannequin
(leopard and camel and fun details, oh my!), but had to pass on it, unfortunately. Next time!