Bubblegum Nails and Summer Dresses

Poor little me, I can't go to work on Fridays on the new project I'm staffed on... What does a girl do with a 3-day weekend? Roam around and do what girls love best, of course! With the sun shining down and a whole extra day to spare, my friend, Maria, and I treated ourselves to spa mani/pedis before heading out to Old Town Pasadena to see what we could find. I love shopping on weekdays when everyone else is at work... No lines and clean, well-stocked stores! With all the stores rolling out their summer must-haves, it was definitely a fun day to explore. Excuse the awkward, cut-off pictures, but hopefully I will get the hang of taking better fitting-room pictures in the future.

First stop of the day was my favorite: Zara. I have already raved about their spring collection, but was still excited to see what new items they've added since I was last there in DC. When Maria stumbled upon something I've been desperately on the search for, my love for the new collection was solidified! Being a measly 5'1 means I never really thought I could pull off the maxi dress look. However, after seeing plenty of petite girls successfully sporting them, I've always wanted to try one on. The bust area of an XS fit perfectly and although I still need to have it hemmed a few inches to get rid of that stumpy look, this is the best fitting maxi I've found. The entire top of the back is ruched, so it fits snuggly and allows for some stretch for a more customized fit. I also tried on the TRF nautical dress and fell in love with the cut and stripes! I don't own very many things with sleeves, so this was a fun change! The gold buttons even have cute little anchors on them. The light cotton material is also thin enough that I wore it as a swim cover-up this past weekend.

I have always, always loved Urban Outfitters' casual, but chic looks. Since UO puts all its items on sale within a few weeks of releasing them, I usually only window-shop and wait to order everything online. The byCORPUS Polkadot Dress fit so nice, though... I couldn't resist! This was my favorite purchase of the day! Love that the silk material makes it so easy to dress up. Plus, did I mention that it has pockets?! The adjustable tie-straps also make it possible to adjust the neckline for a more or less conservative look (more cleavage for dates?). I heart versatility. I grabbed the Silence & Noise Cardigan to see how the dress would look for work, but I ended up really loving it and bought it as well. Yes, I have no self-restraint whatsoever, but look how cute it looks on the model paired with shorts! Next on my list to try is the Lucca Couture Strapless Floral Lace Dress, so hopefully I can find it (on sale) soon. UO practically releases a new set of dresses everyday, so I'm also going to keep checking for more potentials.

It can be a daunting task to dig through the racks at F21 (especially at the larger stores), but the Pasadena store is really well organized! Unlike the craziness of the SF Union Square monstrosity, the Old Town two-story location has neat little niches for each of its sub-lines. I got my cheap, summer dress fix with the two airy floral pieces above. I've been hunting for the one on the left for quite some time now, but it sold out online pretty quickly. I wasn't too sure if the ruffly hemming would be too much, but the over the knee length makes it work somehow. Love the fit and that I can wear it with my new cardi! The one on the right didn't fit as nicely above the waist, so I might have it taken in so that it won't look as bulky on top. The v-shaped ruffled neckline, bright print, and cheap price still made it a good buy though. I found that throwing a cardi over this gives it a quick shape fix, so no biggie! I can't find either of these dresses online, but for a similar look, check out the Garden Spaghetti Strap Dress. Also, in case you saw PetiteAsianGirl's post about her fabulous lace dress she found at H&M, F21 also has their own version of the dress, minus the bubble skirt.

All in all, I would say it was quite a successful shopping day. Thankfully it stays warm enough during the months of May-September to make for some good wear and tear time for all these dresses! I love that even though Old Town doesn't have too many stores, it's got just the right selection to choose from. In addition to UO, F21, and Zara, you can also find a Kate Spade, J.Crew, H&M, and Banana Republic on Colorado Avenue. The domestic nerd in me also loves browsing Crate and Barrel, Z.Gallerie, and Pottery Barn in between shopping for clothes. Please add a Club Monaco, Old Town, and I might never have to go shopping anywhere else.

Zara Spring Collection Goodies

I've always been a *huge* fan of Zara because of its sophisticated, yet girly style. The brand keeps things simple with a pretty neutral palette and classic pieces. The San Francisco Westfield location is one of my favorite Zara stores, but I'd have to say that the Washington, D.C. Metro Center Zara (1025 F St. NW) definitely gives SF a run for its money! After a day of roaming around the D.C. monuments, my friend, Kim, and I were surprised to find the store unassumingly nestled down the street from the Smithsonian American Art Museum. Since it was getting chilly, we figured we could pick up some jackets and scarves to get us through the rest of the night... Instead, we stumbled upon a WHOLE bunch more, thanks to Zara's spring collection.

Although I wasn't really looking to buy that much, I managed to find some super adorable pieces that I've always wanted--a ruffled skirt and simple, crisp white dress! The clutch and tee were just bonus, random goodies. I've been looking for a pretty skirt to wear in the spring with either a long cardigan or blazer, depending on the occasion. I *love* the pretty silk print and can't wait to wear it. The tee was a random item I picked up to try with the skirt, but it ended up fitting well enough for me to buy it. I've seen a few girls wearing these shoulder-ruffle tees, but would've never thought I could pull it off. It's definitely different from anything I own, despite being so simple. The clutch is made of real leather and is perfectly tiny for nights out. I didn't take a picture of the inside, but it's very well constructed with a zippered pouch for coins, pockets for credit cards and IDs. Plus, it fits my iPhone and camera!

My favorite piece has to be the dress, however. The cut is slim and hits about an inch above my knee so that it's flirty enough on its own for daytime lunch dates, or conservative enough for summertime family outings. What's fun is that the ruffled neckline can be worn in the front or in the back. I tried pairing the dress with my gold J.Crew high-waisted belt for a more fitted look. Love that I could even substitute the belt with a bright colored satin ribbon for an even girlier look (the endless color combos are what's so great about white dresses!). The large eyelet texture also gives it a breezy, playful feel. Love, love, love the low-back since it will be perfect to pair with a large side-braid when my hair grows out again. I can't wait to wear this!! 

I also fell in love with this super cute dress while I was there, but they were out of XS. This is more of a fun dress and although I've been trying to dress more sophisticated, being in business casual for the majority of the week makes me appreciate pieces like this even more. Can't you see this being a great choice for a day in the park or at the beach? So many dresses, so many possibilities! I am loving all the blues and whites that the brand's decided to use for their collection and am excited to see more of what they have to offer. Another Zara trip is definitely in order in the coming weeks...

More Delia's...

Barneys Warehouse Sale

While driving through Downtown LA this weekend, I noticed a ginormous banner hung outside the LA Convention Center bearing the BEST news. What better way to start the month off than finding some fashion goodies at the Barneys Warehouse Sale?!

Arriving in our two favorite cities (NY & LA, of course!), the warehouse sale is highly anticipated and offers 50-75% off regular priced items. I've never been to one before, so I'm SO excited for this!! See below for the dates and location details for both cities:

Los Angeles: 2/4 - 2/15
LA Convention Center, 1201 S. Figueroa St.

New York: 2/11 - 2/28
255 W. 17th St.

The shopping frenzy begins at 8AM sharp on the first days of both sales! Can't wait to pick up some springtime blouses and shoes, shoes, shoes.

Big Bags are Fun

Happy New Year! Hopefully, 2010 is going to be a great one!

I'm still enjoying some time off from work and wanted to catch up on some much needed blogging. First case of business, say hello to my new friend:

I picked up this Morning After Bag at the RM San Francisco sample sale and it's quickly become a favorite! Slate greyish, with a tinge of green, I was hoping to grab a more colorful piece while there. However, despite getting there around 10:10AM (minutes after the sale started), the girls were already roaming around with multiple bags on their arms! I have to admit I didn't love this when I saw it right away, but now I actually really like that it's such a muted color since the bag is kind of humongous.

Yes, the bag is pretty heavy--especially since I manage to fit a plethora of random bits and pieces in there, but I really love it! In addition to it amazingly allowing space for my 12' work laptop, the trio of interior pockets is awesome for a girl like me! Spots reserved for keys, iPhone, and index cards (yes, I am a nerd), so I don't have to dig around for them. What could be better? I've been wanting a new bag for work, but this has become a quick and easy go-to for everyday errands as well.

Minkoff sales seem to be all over the place, so I'm happy that her bags are so cute and affordable! Regular seasonal sample sales in NY/SF/LA and online sales? Pretty awesome way of getting her bags into the hands of the regular consumer. Plus, how genius is the "Vincent" card inside the morning after's?

Free Shipping Day

Today is Free Shipping Day!If there's one thing I hate to pay for, it's shipping. The second item on that list is tax, but we can't win everything (unless you live in Oregon or Delaware). 743 participating retailers are offering free shipping today (some do have a minimum purchase limit, so check!), perfect timing for those last minute giftings =)

www.freeshippingday.com

Mike & Chris Sale at Reverse!

As if I haven't been buying myself enough goodies this past month, one of my favorite (usually overpriced) lines went on sale today on Reverse! EFF! I love the style of Mike & Chris--comfy and casual. Thankfully, at 70% to 80% off, I can finally afford to pick up some of their pieces!

Glen Zip Up (Orig. $216, Sale $65) Long and lean, and great for throwing over skinny jeans. My favorite part is the shoulder flap in the back.

Dustin Cotton Voile V Neck Tunic (Orig. $160, Sale $39) I love, love tunics. I love, love white.

3 Button Tights (Orig. $68, Sale $19) My mom makes fun of me for wearing leggings because they shouldn't be considered pants, but the button detailing on these will hopefully make them look a little more legit.

I've been lusting after a Mike&Chris hoodie ever since I first laid eyes on the line (a leather jacket might be next on my list now)! For less than $200, how ever could I have resisted? I even learned a new trick on how to check my credit card number without my supervisor noticing. Hurry on to the site because things are selling out quickly! Click here for an invite to Reverse.

Stocking Stuffer Bling

Looking for a stocking stuffer that will be sure to win over any gal in your life? While passing through the Petaluma Outlets last week, I was pleasantly surprised to find the infamous shu uemura eyelash curler on sale for only $10 at the Designer Fragrances & Cosmetic Co.! The red boxes were stacked throughout the store and calling for me to buy them for all the girls in my life. This beautiful limited edition 24K gold-plated version retails for $24 and is one of THE best eyelash curlers on the market. Hurry and grab some before they're all gone! They will not disappoint.

Wear Your Heart on Your Very Fashionable Sleeve

By offering fashion made with ethical and environmentally-conscious practices, that's the motto that Arboretum Apparel preaches. I can't even begin to say how much I fell in love with this store while roaming around the streets of beautiful Healdsburg, CA.

Downtown Healdsburg, itself, was a gorgeous sight to see during this time of the year. After finishing up work for the day, my coworker and I were excited about having the chance to do some shopping and delighted to find Healdsburg Plaza bordered with cute boutiques all along Center St. and Healdsburg Ave. As we took our time checking out the stores, everyone was friendly and didn't seem to mind that most of the time, we didn't get a chance to buy anything at all. Boutique owners and sales people alike just seemed genuinely pleased that we'd even dropped by. I loved it!

Between the awesome decor (created by marine biologists), bright lights, and striking fashion offerings, Arboretum is one of the most intriguing I've ever seen. I mean, have you ever seen clothing racks like that?! We were even lucky enough to have some time to chat with one of the co-owners, Kate Morrison! As I listened to how she had already found previous success as a boutique owner in Boston and moved to Healdsburg for love, I couldn't help but be excited. I think that's what LA lacks: boutique owners who will chat with you about what they do, how they got there, and even what kind of perfume she likes. Even as I left the store longing for the last pair of summer sandals Kate had displayed, she offered to ship them to me. Such a sweet gal! I'm not sure that I'll ever be back in town anytime soon, but hopefully she opens up shop in LA someday.

Just because I can't have them, maybe someone else who's a size 6.5 can!

Rose Champagne Lovin'

I'm convinced that shopping is a bad, bad addiction in all sorts of ways. When forgotten, you almost convince yourself you can live without it. When wrapped up in the essence of it, you can't even begin to imagine life without the rush. That may be a little over the top, but I'm constantly finding myself caught up in huge waves of buy, buy, buy. I picked up a bevy of fun, fun goodies while visiting Norcal and have to share them all with you over the next few days!

Rose Champagne. So pretty. I've always loved Reiss--their pieces are stunningly beautiful and painfully pricey. I picked up this gorgeous Alonsio Weave Fold Over Clutch while shopping in SF this weekend and I'm absolutely in love with it. I've been looking for a going out clutch/wristlet and this doubles up as both! The detachable strap allows for easy transitioning between classy dinner dates and ridiculous nights out (we have to have some way of holding onto our bags while juggling those drinks, right?). The weaving is also a sweet contrast to the more standard clutches I've seen and the ones I already own. The best part is that the color is seriously unlike anything I've seen (it even photographs nicely!) and will be a perfect pop against a LBD or even as an addition to a bright colored frock! I picked this up at the Reiss store for $240, but ASOS has it for only $203!

If I hadn't already done so much damage to my bank account last week, I would've desperately wanted to buy this pretty little skirt as well:

Reiss Silk Selena Twist Skirt ($186.97)

It reminds me of the Aaron Ashe skirt from The White Dress Shop I've been eyeing! Oh well, maybe next time... For now, my pretty little clutch will have to do. I'm so disgustingly in love with it that I might try to pull off taking it out on casual outings here and there.

Hello from Norcal!

Hello from Healdsburg, CA! I'm currently up in Sonoma County on a business trip and am LOVING the chance to visit this beautiful part of California during such a festive time! With the chance to mix work with play, I've been lucky enough to stumble upon some amazing eateries and boutiques. I don't have the time to do as detailed a post as I would like at the moment, but here's a quick sneak peak of one of the fabulous finds here in Healdsburg:

Can't wait to tell you all about this boutique when I get back to LA!

Rebecca Minkoff West Coast Sample Sales

For all us West Coasters who are lusting after some Rebecca Minkoff goodies after reading Janice's post on the NY sample sale, we're in luck!

I'm going to be out of town this week so I won't be able to make it out there until Saturday, but hopefully everyone else will be able to snap up some great finds before they're all gone. I am reaaalllyyy hoping for a Morning After Bag so am super excited for this!!

Rebecca Minkoff Sample Sale GOODS

Tuesday was VIP night of Rebecca Minkoff's much anticipated NYC sample sale. I went after work and thought maybe just maybe if I go at 830 the line wouldn't be so bad. Yes and no - it was really easy to get into the sale (no line) but once in, the checkout line snaked around the room, crowding around the tables with all the purses on them, making it an extreme workout to fight your way through people with your coat and bounty of bags. Nonetheless, I discovered my inner endurance and stuck it out, and ended up with a few yummy purchases:

Newest additions to the fam

From left to right: Matinee (unknown color, think this was made just for the sample sale. Similar to taupe but texture is different), Saddle Morning After Clutch (hereafter referred to as "MAC"), Plum MAC.

Matinee in mystery color

This is my new work bag to alternate with my black HH Conrad. I like how this is a cool tan/beige color with to the silver hardware so it feels more versatile than a more yellow/gold palette. It's very chic casual when paired with mostly blacks, but still dressy enough due to the structured shape. The Matinee is probably my favorite RM shape.

I've always wanted a dark red purse, eye-catching but not too loud (i.e. not tomato red), muted enough to be classy yet still pops against a dark monochrome outfit. First I followed around a girl with the plum MAC draped on her hoping she would put it down, then I felt like a sad little puppy so decided to go find my own color MAC instead. I picked up the warm brown MAC since I don't have any purses to carry when I'm wearing my cognac boots, then magically at the end of the night I saw not one but TWO plum MACs, and of course they came into my hot little hands to compare. The one I ended up choosing has this beautiful pebbled leather *drool*! Love love love it.

Bathroom shot

The strap on the MAC is longish, and being a petite girl, it dwarfs me if I use it normally. But after reading forums I picked up a few tips on shortening the length and this is my favorite style. A little Chanel-esque =P I can also double up on the strap and make it even shorter.

Plum on left, Grape on right

Earlier this spring, I went to the sample sale and scored my first RM - a grape Morning After Mini. The color is gorgeous, but I just don't find myself giving it the love it deserves since it's a hard to match color, and the bag is heavy due to the size and hardware.  I'm actually thinking of selling the Grape since the Plum is so similar in hue. Also, just have to point out the pebblyness of the Plum leather vs. the smoother Grape.

MACs in different colors.. that's okay right?

The MAC in front is the Grey Skies color, it's my roommates, I just like seeing all of them together =P

The best part? Rebecca herself was there at the VIP night and I asked her to sign the Plum MAC!!! She's so pretty too, tall and skinny, very put together looking. I also got rung up by her brother, the CEO of the company, haha. I like that it's a family business!

All in all, I'd say it was a successful sample sale. AND I mentioned it to a coworker and a friend and they're both dying to go this weekend! It's so fun to spread the excitement of sample sales and love of purses!!!

Boots Loot

They arrived! The boots I posted about below are finally here! Today we'll be discussing the case of Melissa Button v. Paige (harhar, remnants from my Legal Studies days)

When I first pulled both pairs from their boxes, I could feel my boyfriend rolling his eyes without even turning around to see his face, since I also thought what must've been going through his mind, "They're the SAME!" But the great differentiator between males and females are girls' attention to minute detail and the ability to build pro and con lists very quickly to convince herself of one boot over another. So here goes:

- Leather on the Melissas felt more raw and wet, I don't know how else to describe it. The Paige Tall riding boots felt very smooth, and right away I could tell this was why the Paige's were more expensive. It could just be a preference thing, and not an objective quality issue, since my roommates both preferred the "more real leather" feel of the Melissas

- Flap on the Paiges definitely made my calves in front look wider, but the clincher was the back dip that even more so emphasized my big calves. Ew. I did like how the Paige flap looked in theory just not on me, gives an updated look to classic flat boots.

- Sidenote: Piperlime's circumference disclosure was off! It lists the Melissas as 13 inch around, but I'm definitely bigger than that and they still fit! Think they're around 14 or so, but I probably can't wear thick socks and thick jeans.

- Sizing on the Paige was funny. I wasn't wearing socks so that could the culprit but every step I took with them on exhaled a small but distinctive farty sound. Maybe there was a tiny whoopee cushion in each foot or it could have been excess air, but I didn't want my shoes to come with sound effects.

So in the end, I chose the Melissas! SCORE they were also the cheaper of the two.

And some pictures!

Exhibit 1. Paige on left, Melissa on right

DROOL at the luscious leather.

I'm super happy I can check off Flat Black Boots from my Necessities list. I've sprayed these with rain protectant so hopefully I can trot down the street with these rain or shine and these babies will last forever.

Have Your Boots On and Be Ready To Go

In building a wardrobe (including accessories and shoes!) appropriate for the cold and approaching winter, sometimes I get caught between practical and pretty choices. Yes I need edgy black strappy heels for nights out, but I'd really get more mileage (literally) out of some flat black boots. This time, mind wins over heart and I decided I needed to invest in a good pair of boots that would last hopefully several seasons.

Banana/Gap/Piperlime is currently holding their Friends and Family event, so it's a perfect time to choose a few pairs and score the perfect one at 30% off. With Piperlime's free shipping and returns policy, it's also no-risk shopping! I'm not usually a fan of buying multiple pairs of shoes (sizing up/down, different colors, etc) but the site makes it easy to try and try again. I put in my order this morning for some Frye's that I'm crossing my fingers will turn out to be the One(s).

Frye Melissa Button ($298) . The side buttons are cute and give the something extra I'm looking for. These look a little more Western due to the dips in both the front and back, but I've read that they don't look too severe in real life.

Fryes have great reputations for their soft, supple leather and durable quality of the boots that lasts throughout the years. One concern I have about these is the circumference. At 13.5 inches, they might be squeezing tightly on my larger than average calves. Usually, I target 15-16 inch circumferences for boots (to allow for jeans as well), so we'll see if these stretch a bit.

The second pair are the Frye Paige Tall Riding boots ($348). A little bit more pricey but these have a wider circumference (aah, much more roomy!), and look more sophisticated with the front flap styling. Still has the same round toe (makes feet look smaller!) and flat heel that I like.

While looking around for boots, here are the features I looked at and might be useful to keep in mind:

• Shaft - up and down length of the boot. Depending on your height (I'm 5'2), I like them to go right under to my knees, so usually I look for 14-15 inches. Any taller and boots would make me look stumpy. Conversely, I've been looking at ankle boots to wear with skinnies and tights!
• Circumference - the widest part of the calf area. Most people are between 13-16 inches, and I'm on the larger side. This is also what I look at when shopping for skinny jeans (though most measurements given for skinnies are the ankle opening circumference)
• Heel height - This time, I knew I wanted flat boots, and was okay with going up to 1 inch on the height. A great compromise are the hidden or wrapped wedge boots (like these Steve Madden Idens) which still give a boost but have the comfort and look of flats
• Smooth vs. slouchyness - Here it depends on personal preference. Some friends prefer the more casual/effortlessly cool feel that ruched/slouchy boots evoke, and opt for those. I, on the other hand, don't like calling attention to my calves, and like my boots to have smooth sides. Slouchy boots are cute, but it's about knowing what works for your body type
• Durability / leather quality - Since flat black boots are such a wardrobe staple, I was prepared to make an investment into this purchase, and researched top brands in boots. Frye's came highly recommended: stylish and built to last. Of course, how you care for your shoes can make a difference in their lifespan, but to some extent, the quality of the leather used and workmanship goes a long way. If I were looking for more casual, trendy pieces though, I'd be okay with a cheaper pair, but be prepared to buy another pair next season 

Nick & Mo Tessa Coat

As mentioned in Janice's winter coats post, I've been wanting to buy the Nick & Mo Tessa Coat from The White Dress Shop, but it's been sold out for a while now (probably because, like it did for me, Tiffany's recommendation really won everyone over). Well thankfully, the store has such amazing customer service that not only did Bola email me back last month to say they'd be getting more of these, she emailed me again yesterday to share the great news that it was finally available again! For only $149, this is a perfect white jacket for the coming winter months. The mock collar and buttons are cute and simple! This will be much more fun to throw on for my holiday outings. No more covering up those cheerful dresses with the same boring black coat this season!

The site is also offering free shipping on orders over $100, so this makes the purchase even more of a must. White is one of my favorite colors to wear because it's the simplest go-to color so I will definitely be checking back with the site to see what other goodies they're going to offer in the future.

I Buy Impractical Things

Fred Flare has some of the CUTEST, quirkiest, whimsical-est things, and luckily for us, they are having a 30% holiday preview sale off the entire site! The Christmas counter on the website handily reports that indeed, there are only 49 days left until our favorite green-and-red holiday, so it's a great time to stock up on gifts for your loved ones. Or if you're like me, it's a marvelous excuse to buy things I needed anyway so why not get some with serious cute factor?

First, I needed mugs. Yup, boring old ceramic mugs. But then I found these upside down animal mugs ($20 each)!! When right side up, they are normal looking drinking cups, but I'm motivated to finish all my liquids so I can turn the mug upside down and stare at the cute faces on the bottom! I received the panda and cat ones yesterday, and as a disclaimer, just want to say that these are super adorable BUT tiny, almost like shot mugs. Maayybe it can hold a triple espresso, or 6 sips of tea. But they're too cute to ship back so I'm keeping them!

Real life comparison. Mugs are teensy compared to my roommate's grown up sized tinkerbell mug

These Russian doll measuring cups ($16) are cute and practical!! Although I don't really bake or cook or do anything in the kitchen besides make Ramen, so maybe these aren't that practical. Well, if in the future, I suddenly get an itching for baking, these will definitely be useful.

 After doing some research on these, I found that Anthropologie Russian Doll measuring cups ($28), are exponentially higher cute factor, but also a lot more impractical. They're made of stoneware for goodness' sake, I'd probably just stare at their prettineses, but would be too scared to actually use them. I also got heart shaped earbuds because why should we be stuck with normal earbuds? Why NOT have fun with the everyday usage products in your life, and get some super duper cute ones while you're at it? Okay, so my bf laughed at me while I had them in my ears, but they give me an extra kick in my step, and that's what matters. Other awesome suggested buy from Fred Flare:
Holly Golightly sleep mask


Mini umbrella friends. Love the feet/handle

USB drives. Favorite is the turtleneck guy!

Don't be fooled, Fred Flare also has lots of clothing and jewelry options in addition to these accessories and small pieces, but I haven't yet tried them. This was my first time shopping with FF, shipping was super quick, mugs were packaged with plenty of bubble wrap, consider me a happy customer!

Stomping in Puddles

Happy Friday!!! Although it's gray and cold outside, Fridays are always a reason to be happy.  This weekend promises to be a wet and sloshy one, with rain and more rain. How to tell if your area will require an umbrella and/or galoshes? Try this website - straight to the point and hilarious. It also stores your location info, and helpfully suggests whether to bring an umbrella. Funny, before I moved to New York, I never checked the weather, there wasn't a reason to. It still hasn't become a habit yet, so I just keep an umbrella in my bag at all times or go to Duane Reade to buy one (which I've done oh, 4 times).

For those brave enough to go out, I've come across some cute rainboots to equip you for some quality puddle jumping:

Burberry Mid Calf Check rain boot on sale at Nordstrom's for $99.90. The website doesn't show it as on sale, but anything ending in $.90 at Nordstrom's signals a discounted cost. Good for those who like the iconic design of Burberry but don't want to pay 2X the price tag.

A more subtle, gorgeous alternative from Burberry. Love the deep berry color that stands out in the rain. The tall boot is also more accomodating for wider calves, which from personal experience, should not ever have anything cutting it off at midcalf.  If I didn't already have this pair from Jeffrey Campbell, I'd get these in a heartbeat.

Hunter rainboots ($115) are a perennial favorite, and are available in short and tall lengths in a rainbow of colors. Yellow wellies stomping around on rainy days are just so happy! I'd want a fun pair to beat the rainy blues. A lot of retailers carry these, I'd wait until there is a coupon code to grab these (Piperlime would be a good bet with their 20% off coupons).

And just for fun, here are some adorable Tokidoki rainboots! These bring out my cheeky side who loves Hello Kitty and all cute animations. Ee! (There are also Hello Kitty rainboots available by the same maker but even I know some limits of embarassment).

This weekend is Saks Friends & Family 25% off. Burberry and Hunter are both not one of the many exclusions. Excuse the double negative, both are included! You can use this to get rainboots or anything else you've been saving up to get!

Reverse-Reverse Online Outlet

I recently discovered REVOLVEclothing.com's online outlet, Reverse and can' t believe I didn't know about it earlier! The site offers real deals on a bevy of goodies, free returns (like its parent company), and $5 flat rate shipping on all orders. After some quick perusing, I'm excited to say that there are definitely some great finds!

Gaspard Yurkievich Scallop Back Heel (orig. $381, sale $141) I la-LOVE the orange detailing and scalloped back! Why, oh why can't I be a size 8?!?

Susana Monaco Barathea Tie Coat (orig. $550, sale $193) I'm always on the lookout for perfect white coats and this one is absolutely gorgeous. The cropped sleeves and dainty collar are a perfect contrast to the more traditional winter coat.

MASON by Michelle Mason Belted Halter Dress (orig. $352, sale $124) A girl can never have too many black dresses! This would be an instant classic for a night out and the pockets and plunging neckline make it fun as well.

With so many options, this will quickly become one of my favorite online shopping destinations. Sample sale prices without the hassle of waiting for start times or worrying about no return policies!! Reverse is by invite-only so click here to join! :)