Olive & Stripes

The weather has finally started to warm and I'm glad to wear something other than sweaters. I'm still saving my spring colors (but probably won't wait too much longer to bring them out). Today I went with simple pieces that were comfortable in the non-winter temps. I love the combo of this flattering olive jacket with my favorite stripped t-shirt. I also decided to get one more wear out of my boots before stowing them away in favor of sandals and sling-backs.
P.S. The cute squirrel in the last photo was scampering around while I was taking photos. :)

What I'm Wearing:

Jacket: St. John's Bay (JCP)

Stripped top: H&M

Jeans: Old Navy

Belt: NY&Co.

Boots: a.n.a (JCP)

My Favorite Upcoming Spring Trends (2013)

There are two seasons I look forward to every year: fall and spring. Both offer relief from extreme temperatures and boast the cutest fashion trends This season is no exception. So far we haven't seen a break in the cold weather in Virginia (there's currently snow on the ground), but I can tell warmth is coming soon. As I look through the March fashion magazines, I get more and more excited for some of the spring trends. Above are some of the things I look forward to wearing when I can I put away my heavy coats.
 1. Ruffles: There is something dainty, feminine and very spring-like about ruffles. They add a playful element to the season's fashions.
2. Neutral Nails: With so many colors for spring, a neutral nail can pair with anything. It also keeps nails looking clean and fresh.
3. I am a huge fan of a-line skirts. They are super-flattering on most figures and, like ruffles, are playful and feminine. I also already have some of these in my closet (money saving bonus for me!).
4. Sheer tops are a nice break from chunky sweaters and also work well in the summer months. On chillier spring days it's easy to throw a blazer or cardigan on for warmth.
5. Black and white is anther love of mine (even more so than a-line skirts). This is another trend that has a permanent home in my closet. It's fun and easy to dress up black and white dresses and blouses with a pop of color (like cobalt jeans or a neon belt).
6. After a couple of years walking on a college campus, my feet have become accustomed to flats. Pointy-toed flats are a fun way to add style without adding a heel. (The pair featured above are waiting patiently in my closet for me to wear them).
7. Warm colors are a nice (and bold) contrast to the usual spring pastel. A fun way to pair a fierce red bag is with equally fierce red lips, leaving the rest of the look neutral (i.e. with the black and white trend).
8. Lace dresses are so versatile. They can be dressed up for a special date night, or dressed down with a denim jacket and cowboy boots. This is also another very cute and girly look for spring.
  

Polished Up Tuesday: My Spring Polish Wish List

Spring Polish Wish List by lovieduck82 featuring opi nail lacquer

I'm excited that spring is not far away, and I'm also excited to check out some of the new colors for the season.There are some gorgeous shades out that I have on my wish list. From nudes to brights and even transitioning colors, there is something out there for everyone. Above are some of the shades I have my eye on.
Top row, left to right: OPI's Hands off my Kielbasa, China Glaze's Tranzitions color in Duplicity (this shade transforms from mint green to teal wherever you place a clear top coat), Butter London's Kerfuffle
Bottom row, left to right: Butter London's Cuppa, essie's Where's my Chauffeur, OPI's My Paprika is Hotter than Yours

Edgy Valentine

Whether you are celebrating with your sweetheart or your pals this Valentine's, I hope you have a wonderful day. Remember, this day is all about love (and not just romantic love).
This outfit is perfect for a movie night with your honey or drinks with the girls. It has an edgy vibe that is different from all the sweet pinks and reds you'll see today. I especially love the zipper detailing on the back of the shirt and lace-up style of the booties.

What I'm Wearing:

Top: a.n.a (JCP)

Jeans: Liz Claiborne

Necklace: mark.\

Bracelet: Charlotte Russe

Booties: Sketchers

Handbag: Worthington (JCP)

Shades: Liz Claiborne

Polished Up Tuesday: OPI A Butterfly Moment

Today's polish is from OPI's Mariah Carey collection. This gorgeous pink shade is called A Butterfly Moment. This is a great neutral pink that is office appropriate and is also playful since it has a slight metallic finish. I like this color because it's unlike any pink shade I've seen before.
The polish has a smooth application and is almost completely opaque with one coat. I did have one or two bubbles after applying (maybe because I applied two coats).