Mango for JCP

MNG by Mango dolman sleeve top, $36 | MNG by Mango ruffle blouse, $22|MNG by Mango tote handbag, $104 | MNG by Mango brown tote bag, $40 | MNG by Mango gold chain necklace, $20 | MNG by Mango® Lace Ruffle Dress or Bracelet or Bag, $28

Ohmygoshyouguys! Mango has come out with a line for JCPenny! I am beyond over the moon about this. 

I first encountered Mango while studying abroad. Lunches al fresco with the girls turned into afternoons of window shopping at least once a week. Mango was the only store where my wallet practically jumped out of my purse and paid for things of it's own accord. My will power was no match. Coming back to the states, I was sad to learn Mango only existed in Chicago and New York (they've since expanded to other states, but still not a single one in MN). 

On a (one of many) gift shopping trip last week, I practically squealed with excitement when I spotted the MNG by Mango logo above the racks of party dresses. Honestly, I was a little surprised that JCP is hosting the line but my oh my, I sure wasn't disappointed in the clothes. And I was ECSTATIC to find the above brown tote and gold necklace under the tree this evening (the bf and I opened presents with his family tonight). I wonder how he knew they'd go over well? It couldn't have been my constant ooohing and ahhhing or my inability to walk away with out picking up every single item on display...could it?

Grey Skies

Lately, I've found myself drawn to all things sequins. And grey. Thanks to my new obsession with Polyvore, I get to share some of the sparkles that are sparking my interest {sorry, couldn't resist}.

{Those Old Navy flats actually ended up in my shopping bag yesterday. I can't wait to wear them this weekend! }
 Dolman sleeve sweater: $22, Slim blazer: $44, Miss selfridge: £20, Old Navy ballerina shoes: $15, Red Herring python handbag: £20, Forever21 cuff jewelry:$13

In addition to playing on Polyvore, shopping, and working, I've been spending the past few days reading Cheetah is the New Black. All the way through. I believe I've only done that with one other blog to date. The author of Cheetah is just so sweet, I couldn't stop reading! I feel like we could be friends. Plus, I want to shop in her closet.

Pretty for Pennies

If I owned this dress, I don't think I'd ever take it off.

I instantly fell in love with this Rachel Gilbert dress, but even if it wasn't sold out that $700 price tag would have made it impossible for me to afford.

This forever 21 dress has the same romantic, flowy style for much, much less.

The sparkle can be added with accessories, like this sequined belt and headband, which can be purchased from here and here.

I've seen quite a few fashion blogs that use high end pieces for inspiration, then try to imitate the look without creating sticker shock. I've come to realize this is an amazing idea because it allows you to start with pieces that you truly love regardless of budget. This is my first shot at using this idea, so what do you think? Did I get it, or did I miss my mark completely?