12.31.2011

Happy New Year!

In honor of my resolution to be more of a cheapskate and less of a shopaholic, I decided to start 2012 wearing an outfit compromised of items I already own and have worn many times before...just not together.

The only exception is a neon yellow rhinestone necklace from Forever21.  I bought it last week in 2011 and it was less than $15 so all current 2012 resolutions are still in tact.  Plus there is a built-in clause to my resolution that includes a free pass for any item that includes the words neon, yellow and rhinestone. Obviously a given.

Happy New Year!


Items included in set: Old Navy Tank Top $8.50, Max Azria Leather Cotton-Panel Jacket $325, Karen Kane Sequin Skirt $44,  Nine West Heels $40, Forever21 Fringe Clutch $23, Forever21 Star Ring $3.80, Betsey Johnson EarringsOld Navy Knit Scarf $14, NARS Soft Touch Shadow Pencil Celebrate $24, SO Silver Tone Bead Necklace $12


I know most of you are thinking "Wow...CC...what an accomplishment.  Wearing things you already own.  How do you do it?  Are you a fashion magician?"  I agree. Hence the reason why I will be looking to my closet first and embracing the lifestyle I pride myself on before I start shopping.

Couture Cheapskates unite!  Let 2012 be our most stylish yet!

P.S. Thank you for reading, putting up with my general craziness and Beyonce-obsessing on a somewhat regular basis.  I truly appreciate it and wish you the happiest New Year.

12.30.2011

Christmas Ballin'

This Christmas was the best kind of Christmas.  There were funny moments, touching moments; genuine surprises and genuine not-so-surprises-but-I-am-thrilled-anyway...mixed in with a few "what the heck's?"  All in all a little random, but that's how I like it!

Oh.  Did you think I was referring to gifts?  No, I was talking the return of NBA basketball and the slew of celebrities who attended the season-opening games.


Obviously the Lakers game in LaLa Land was the hotspot for courtside celebrity sightings.  Adam Levine, the girl from Pretty Little Liars, Snoop Dogg carrying his wife's purse, David Silver...just to name a few.  However, the real show was the fashion face-off between Lil Wayne and Kanye.

Can we just take a moment to analyze Lil Wayne's velour animal print hoodie?  Is it Juicy?  The neon orange watch is tres resort.  He is also wearing camouflage shorts which I know some you out there also wear...you know who you are.

Man, Kanye loves denim on denim get-ups.


I was kind of mad at him because I thought he was there supporting the Lakers...but he wasn't!

(Check out those emoticons)

Just so you know who had the game-winning shot...Chi-Town's D-Rose.

(That World Peace / Ron Artest name change is no joke)

Man, I am going to miss those Kardashians in the Lakers' stands but we will always have Dallas.


I kind of love Khloe's ombre hair color.  Can you believe Kris Jenner missed this photo op?

Here is the picture that makes me die.  How cute is Egypt at the Knicks game?


So I think we are all in agreement on one thing regarding the return of NBA basketball...celebrity sightings!!!  There was just one celebrity noticeably absent from our usual holiday festivities.  Duh.  Pitbull.

12.21.2011

Hollywood Holiday Glam

For those of you that know me, you know I am not a professional make-up artist, nor does my appearance allow me the opportunity to offer any expertise.

Here is what I can tell you...I try a lot of products and am therefore able to gauge when I receive a more positive response to what's on my face.

For example, when for some reason I decided I was going Hollywood Glam to the workplace.

Totally appropriate.  Totally necessary.

Hollywood Holiday Glam

  1. Apply matte beige shadow from eyebrow to lid crease.  I use MAC Vanilla Eye Shadow.
  2. On the lid, sweep Revlon perle "Sparkling Gold" Eye Shadow from lash line to just above crease.
  3. Line lashes using liquid liner such as L'Oreal Paris Voluminous Eyeliner in black.
  4. Apply 2 coats of your favorite dramatic mascara.  Mine?  Rimmel London The Max Volume Flash Bold Curves Mascara.
  5. Of course Bobbi Brown Blush in Pale Pink is part of this beauty equation.
  6. The glamorous next-level kicker is none other than Bobbi Brown Lip Gloss in Hollywood Red.
Seriously...this gloss is the most perfect red lip gloss.  It looks fabulous on all skin tones and is bright, but not  too over the top.  I love Bobbi lip glosses because of their texture and their lack of stickiness.  This shade is described as "bright candy red" which sounds perfect for the holidays, right?

As much as I love the gloss, the shadow is pretty fabulous for under $5 too. 

I recommend this look because it takes less than 10 minutes to achieve and is built using items you already own with just two affordable substitutions.  Such a festive and easy update for the holiday season.  If you can't go Hollywood Glam during the holidays, when can you go?

Fool-Proof & Last-Minute Gifts

I find there are certain gifts that always feel special regardless of how many days you bought them before Christmas.

CC Approved Last Minute Gifts


  1. Slatkin & Co. "Winter Garland" 14.5oz Triple-Wick Candle $19.50  I love these candles -- very luxurious and fragrant.  Super long burn time.  
  2. UGG Cozy Knit Slipper $110  I don't know one person (man or woman) who doesn't think their UGG slippers are the best thing they ever put on their feet.
  3. philosophy "Oh Twinkling Night" Duo $15  This set is exclusive to Nordstrom but philosophy is carried at Ulta and other department stores.  So many scents to choose from and the quality is awesome.
  4. Old Navy Plaid Flannel Shirt $15  I bought this shirt in 4 colors and am currently deciding which color I am keeping.  Also available for men.
  5. Godiva Limited Edition Holiday Chocolate Gift Box $25  I always love the limited-edition chocolates from Godiva.  Such a festive treat!
  6. Coach Leather Dog Key Ring $38  Coach key chains are an affordable splurge most people do not buy for themselves.  Plus this dog is so cute.
  7. Francesca's Collections "Draped In The Dark" Necklace $34  Best place to find a quick but cool jewelry gift?  Francesca's Collections.  Lots of variety in style and price.
All of these gifts are easy to find at your local shopping center.  You might be shopping last minute but guaranteed your gift will feel special and delight anyone on your list.  Now get to it!

12.20.2011

Dressed-Up Dazzle

Last week I shared with you two dresses I have been obsessing over.

Now is the perfect time to share with you the perfect jewels to accompany said dresses.

Tinley Road Deco Crystal Shell Drop Earring
$22 at Piperlime.com  To Buy

These are the perfect special occasion earrings...a little funky, unique and rhinestones!  They look like you pulled them out of your granny's jewelry box or from a vintage shop.  One of my favorite combos is gold jewelry with clear rhinestones because it coordinates with both silver and gold accessories.  I find $22 to be beyond reasonable for a piece of jewelry so versatile...which leads me to my next treasure.

  Textured Horse Shoe Ring
$5.80 at Forever21  To Buy

This ring has been a hit.  I have worn it about 5 times since I bought it last week at Forever21.  People are shocked when I tell them it cost only $6.  I have to say, in-person, it looks quite luxe and I love the unusual design. Again, you will see rhinestones mixed with gold metal and in this case a pearl!

So my point with all this is to show you how my two jewelry obsessions are the perfect complement to my two special occasion dress obsessions.

I consider this set a CC "Ode to December."  You recognize the dresses, the jewels and hopefully the shoes.  I took the liberty of mixing in outerwear and clutches for each look; styling one more classic and the other more cool.  Needless to say after doing this, my obsession has grown stronger.  Especially because the price tag of each outfit is reasonable given the versatile pieces.

12.18.2011

Jewels and Gems

Jewelry is my favorite gift to give.

From stocking stuffer to sentimental keepsake, jewelry is a stress-free gift because you can find something at any price to fit every budget.  And you rarely have to guess a size!  (For the record, bigger is always better.)

Jewelry is a gift that feels special and glamorous but can still be affordable.

Fancy schmancy jewelry aside, here are some of my favorite pieces under $100.

Jewels & Gems


  1. Kendra Scott Danielle Earrings in Pink Agate $60 The hottest jewelry designer right now.  A gift that says style.
  2. Sabine Multi Chain Row and Stone Necklace $38  Blush stones are so versatile they will coordinate with just about everything.
  3. Endless Gardens Earrings $18  Love the earth tones / orange pop combo.
  4. Arrow Bib Necklace $6.80  Looks much more expensive than price.
  5. Multi-Star Line Bracelet $42  Statement bracelets rule.
  6. Kate Spade Pearl and Crystal Stud Earring $48  Elegant and affordable gift for the classic lady on your list.  Amazing deco rhinestones.
  7. Textured Horse Shoe Ring $5.80  I own this...reminds me of YSL.
  8. Sequin Animal Print Bangle $22  Awesome color/rhinestone combo.
  9. RACHEL Rachel Roy Abalone Evil Eye Ring $42  On my wish list!
  10. Lulu Frost for J.Crew Figure Eight Bangle $39.50  Navy jewels are hard to find.  An investment piece she will have (and wear) forever.
  11. Tinley Road Antique Short Necklace $34  Perfect for any lady on your list.
CC Tip:  Many retailers are offering reduced or free ground shipping if your order by 12/20.  Save yourself the headache and shop from home this weekend!

12.17.2011

The Official CC 2011 Wish List

For those of you who are wondering what is on the CC Wish List this year, here it is in no particular order:

The Official CC 2011 Wish List


  1. Butter London Union Jack Pack Trio $36  I love nail polish yet never seem to have a manicure...really want Union Jack Black.
  2. philosophy The Funnel Cake Stand Set  You know I love this product and smelling like a funnel cake sounds delicious.
  3. J.Crew Honeycomb Cable Sweater $79.50  Just a perfect sweater.
  4. Illume Boulangerie Jar Candle in Angel Food $16  I have been obsessed with this candle for a year...can you tell I like cake?
  5. Tinley Road Antique Short Necklace $38  I would wear this necklace tons with its mixed stones and metals.
  6. Forever21 Suedette Platform Heels $24.80  I have been waiting for these shoes to hit Forever21 since forever...would look amazing with tights.
  7. kate spade new york "His & Hers" Double Old Fashioned Glasses $50  These glasses are so sweet.  They would prevent me and the Mr. from confusing our drinks...charming and practical.
  8. Fringe "Lace" Long Tray $25  When will I break down and spend the $25?
  9. Cambridge Satchel $155  If money were no object, this would be #1 on my list.  My only problem would be deciding which color.
  10. Curvy Chrysanthemum Vase $28  Adorable and delightful decor.
  11. RACHEL Rachel Roy Abalone Evil Eye Ring $42  Fashionable and wards off negative energy?  Better yet...give me two!
  12. Kendra Scott "Danielle" Pink Agate Earrings $60  I can't think of one thing in my closet I couldn't wear these earrings with.  Fine I can, but you get the point.
Twelve items is pretty excessive but this is fantasy land, so why limit myself?

12.14.2011

CC Holiday Sweater Selections

Is there anything more traditional than a sweater as a holiday gift?  I don't think so!

My sweater preferences seem to include fair isle, bright colors and chunky details.

Yep...that sounds perfect for holiday gift-giving and winter wardrobing.

Here are my selections* from a mall near you:

Holiday Sweater Selections


*I suggest clicking on the links below for a closer look.
  1. Banana Republic Essential Turtleneck $59.50  Pretty plain but good quality.  I wear my basic turtlenecks  all the time as a layering piece.
  2. Forever21 Popcorn Knit Sweater $19.80  F21 makes a decent sweater believe it or not.  I have worn my hot pink version of this sweater plenty.  Love the jade green.
  3. Old Navy Sequined Fair Isle Sweater $25  This sweater is so pretty in-person.  Looks more luxurious than usual Old Navy sweaters.  Great price!
  4. Forever21 Wide Stripe Sweater $13.50  A versatile piece that moves toward resort and can be worn well into warmer weather.  Did you see the price?  You can get 2!
  5. Juicy Couture Bright Fair Isle Crewneck Sweater $198  This girl is not cheap but so adorable.  Love the open side seam.  On my markdown watch list.
  6. J.Crew Honeycomb Sweater $79.50  I love this sweater.  Kind of looks vintage but in bright, modern colors.  I wish I looked good in yellow.  *On my wish list.
  7. Loft 3/4 Sleeve Cable Sweater $59.50  This sweater was recently spotted on Zoe Saldana and I have to say it looks awesome with jeans and whiskey boots!
  8. The Limited Striped Crewneck Sweater $59.50  Love the neutral combo -- would go with everything in your closet.  Dress up for the office or with jeans on the weekend.
  9. GAP Pointelle ballet-neck sweater $49.50  Good choice for someone more petite who typically gets eaten alive by chunkier knits.
  10. Express Sparkle Oversized Drape-Neck Tunic $88 A sweater tunic is a winter wardrobe MVP.  The subtle sparkle is perfect for a cozy evening out (or in).  I have a similar sweater and have worn tons.
  11. Express Long Sleeve Sequin Striped V-Neck $59.90  It's the holidays!  Of course you need sequins...although will easily transition into your post-holiday wardrobe.
CC Tip:  Most of these sweaters are less than the price posted above.  Pay attention to store promotions for extra savings.  If you wait until the last minute, some sweaters will get marked down further but finding your size might be challenging.

12.13.2011

Two Dresses...One Obsession

I have approximately zero places that require me to wear a dress before Christmas.  Can I get a winter wedding or something?

That does not stop me, however, from developing any sort of obsession for special occasion dresses this time of year.

Here are two numbers that do not involve sequins.

Bisou Bisou One Shoulder Belted Gold Dress
$49.99 at JCPenney  To Buy

I am currently trying to establish the one-shoulder/long-sleeve combo as my signature look.  This dress will take me one step further on my journey.  Over the last year, JC Penney dresses have impressed me and you really can't beat the price.  If there is any sort of promo coming up, I will have a hard time passing this gold confection up.  It is a People StyleWatch "Must Have" for goodness' sake.

Pleated Strapless Sweetheart Dress
$34.80 at Forever21  To Buy

There is not one thing about this dress I do not love.  Of course I love it because it is pleated but the midi-length and sweetheart neckline are so stylish.  The teal is stunning.  I have yet to see this dress in-person but from what I see online, I feel tempted to order because I think it is so beautiful.

It is awesome you could buy both these dresses for less than $100.  When you get a deal this good, it can be worth making the purchase just to have something in your closet you know you can wear for a future occasion.  For sure worth picking-up if they go on-sale after the holidays.

I think you know where I am going with this...I am very predictable.



12.12.2011

Miu Miu...Is That You?

You know who I think has a nice Contemporary opening price point?

Bloomingdale's.

I also think they have one of the best websites curated to my taste.

So when I am looking for something inspiring and fashionable, I know I can count on them.

Case in point...remember these guys?

Miu Miu Glitter & Suede Bow Peep Toe Ankle Boots

Well, they have a friend:

Miu Miu Glitter and Suede Pump
$415.99  at Sak's  To Buy

While I am happy these lookers are on sale and perhaps more affordable at $415, they are still out of my range.

Good news friends and fashion lovers!  Check out these glittered gems:

Aqua "Moxie" Strappy Sandal
$110 at Bloomingdale's  To Buy

These shoes with their pink suede and silver glitter combo are more "inspired-by"  than direct imitation of the Miu Miu pair.  Regardless, they are adorable and make a statement.  For $110 you get a lot of look and guaranteed compliments.  The deco feel of these shoes is fabulous.

Don't be trippin'....these heels measure over 5 inches.

The soft pink suede is neutral enough to work with more outfits in your closet than you think.  They key is to wear them cool bold colors such as a deep teal or royal purple.  A soft grey or charcoal would be pretty if your prefer neutrals.  Black always works too.

This shoe is also available in black suede and gold glitter which is beyond versatile especially during the holidays.

Aqua "Moxie" Strappy Sandal
$110 at Bloomingdale's  To Buy

I love a statement shoe.  Every woman needs a pair in their closet.  Especially one that is affordable and designer-inspired.  And can you really beat anything glittered?  Heck no.




12.11.2011

For Your Home-y

My husband and I were having a disagreement this week over whether throw pillows were an appropriate gift to give.

I believe they are.  He believes not so much.

I personally love anything home decor and have been eyeing these items as a perfect gift for some time now.  I have a lot of people in my life who love making their home feel special...it is where the heart lives after all.  I of course love coming for a visit to see the beautiful items they have collected to reflect their unique personalities.

What better gift to give?

(Controversial throw pillows have been disqualified...but I do love these.)

For My Home-y


  1. Pottery Barn Beaded Frame Bottle Stopper $19.50  PB has the most beautiful and affordable wine stoppers.  Include one with a bottle of wine or stemware.
  2. Uncommon Goods Agate Coaster Set $64  These are my favorite gift to give.  I have a set and you would not believe what a conversation piece they are to anyone who visits.  Great gift for a bachelor.
  3. kate spade new your His & Hers Double Old Fashioned Glasses $50  I have been in love with these glasses for over a year.  I would give these to newlyweds or couple who enjoys a spirit (or two).
  4. Anthropologie Anemone Mezzo Vase $18  Obsessed begins to describe my affection for this vase collection.  Somehow modern and artistic but vintage in a way that is so eclectic and special.
  5. Uncommon Goods Unzipped Glass Zipper Bag $20   Don't ask me why but I cannot stop thinking of this thing.  I love it.  I feel like a young adult male needs this...brother, maybe?
  6. MacKenzie-Childs Courtly Check Christmas Tree Plate $85  Yeah, it's $85 but wonderful for any collector or person who likes quality and style.  Each piece is terra cotto and hand embellished so worth the price.
  7. west elm Wood + Resin Boxes $14   So versatile for anyone on your list.  They remind me of a vintage checkerboard my Dad gave me from when he was a kid.

12.09.2011

Beauty Queen

I am a beauty junkie so it is no wonder one of my favorite gifts is cosmetics.

In fact, one of my favorite holiday pastimes is the gift set.  You get more value for a lower price than if you were to buy each piece individually.  In most cases, the holidays are the only time these gift sets are available so they are a worthwhile purchase for you...and anyone on your list.


Here are some of my favorite beauty items available this holiday season:

Beauty Queen


  1. OPI Lincoln Park After Dark Nail Polish $8  Every woman should own this so-purple-it's-black shade.  Perfect for layering under glitter.  Available at Ulta.
  2. Marc Jacobs Rollerball Trio $38  This tin contains 3 different fragrances that are universally-appealing...especially Daisy.  Perfect for travel.
  3. MAC Cosmetics Dazzlesphere Ornament $32.50  How enticing is a limited edition fourth mini not pictured?  They sure have my number!
  4. Freeman Mint & Lemon Clay Facial Mask $3.99  These masks are an incredible value.  I think they work as well as some of their more expensive counterparts.  Awesome stocking stuffer.
  5. OPI The Muppets "Finger Muppets" Minis $7  You will probably have to order online but contains minis of hugely popular "Designer De Better" and "Warm & Fozzie."
  6. Laura Mercier Mini Kohl Pencil Set $32  Laura Mercier makes two of my favorite eye pencils of all time: Antique Jade and Brown Copper. Both in this set.
  7. Laura Mercier Tarte au Citron Duo $45  I am obsessed with this scent.  A returning favorite.  The super-whipped Body Souflee is heavenly.
  8. Deluxe Fragrance Sampler For Her $50  A collection of fragrance samples with a voucher included to redeem for a full-size fragrance.  The gift to get someone you don't know what to get.
  9. GlamGlow Mud Mask $69  Not cheap but pretty much the hottest thing in beauty right now.
  10. Fresh Brown Sugar Affair Set $50  The best value on the list.  All three products are homeruns and hugely popular.  The body scrub is one of my favorite products.



12.07.2011

One...Sequined Sensation

One of my favorite things about the holidays is the abundance of sequins.

In my opinion, nothing beats a sequin dress.

Here are some of my favorites this season:


Top:  Sequin Dress $128 at Express  To Buy
 Bottom: Surplice-Back Striped Sequin Dress  $108 at Express  To Buy

At Express it's all sequins all the time so you are guaranteed to find one or two cute dresses at any given point in time.  The nice thing is Express offers variety in style and at an affordable price.  The first dress works on its own or could be dressed down with leggings and boots.  The second dress has a sexy back that would require me to wear a jacket which I would be okay with.


 MICHAEL Michael Kors Sleeveless Sequined Wrap Dress
$99.99 at Macy's  To Buy

This dress is so pretty.  The cap sleeve makes it undergarment friendly and the wrap waist creates a flattering shape. Because of these features, this dress will look nice on any woman.  It is also available in black for someone who might prefer a more subtle sequin.

RACHEL Rachel Roy 'Liza' Short Sleeve Sequin Dress
$119.99 at Macy's  To Buy

This is my favorite way to wear sequins...dressed down and a little funky.  The navy sequins sparkle but are less flashy than their metallic friends.  The neckline and sleeve make the dress feel more casual and therefore okay to wear with booties.  So cute with a black boyfriend cardigan or leather jacket.


Calvin Klein Sequin V-Neck Jersey Shift Dress
$83.70 at Ebay.com  To Buy
(also available at Macy's and CalvinKlein.com)

This dress is so smart.  A jersey shift dress could be the most comfortable thing to wear, you won't even feel like you are dressed-up.  Besides being comfortable, the sleeves and v-neck give the dress a classic silhouette that is simple yet modern.  Super easy to wear.  Some people complain about having to sit on sequins.  No worries.  This dress is only sequined on the front.

Sequin Stripe Sweater Dress
$89.50 at Loft  To Buy

Last but not least, this sweater dress works if you want something way more casual and way less flashy.  The sequins in this dress are barely noticeable, which in some ways I think defeats the purpose, but I find this dress cute anyway.  The nice part is you could dress up or down with either flats or heels.  I would do leggings and my black chunky boots for a day where I want to look nice but be comfortable.


Enzo Angiolini 'Smiles'
$69.30  at 6pm.com  To Buy

Marc by Marc Jacobs Pave Star Stud
$42 at Piperlime.com  To Buy

The best thing about a sequin dress is you don't need a ton of accessories to complete the look; usually just basic pumps and simple earrings.  The other hidden benefit?  When done right, sequins are actually very classic and stay in style for years.  That is why I recommend a more simple silhouette.

A sequin dress can be a valuable asset to your holiday wardrobe.  They require minimum effort, are fun and can be dressed up or down depending on your event.

CC Tip:  There are many beautiful sequined dress options if you increase your price tag to the $200+ range.  Keep your eye on these pieces for when they go on sale and save for next year.

12.06.2011

Jingle Bellini

I was feeling uninspired when it came to selecting my holiday bath gel.  Nothing seemed to catch my eye.

On a visit to Bath and Body Works to pick-up my holiday soaps, I found this:

Jingle Bellini Shower Gel
$11 at Bath & Body Works  To Buy


This shower gels captures my heart for two reasons: holiday-themed and cocktail-inspired.  It is as if Bath & Body Works custom made this product exclusively for me.  The notes are peach champagne, apricot nectar and powdered sugar.  

Yes please!

Also included in the collection are Vanillatini and Strawberry Sparkler.

12.05.2011

My Weekend Uniform: Red Skinny Jeans Pt. 2

So this uniform is actually a winter interpretation of an outfit I wore over the summer.

To start, I switched out a grey t-shirt for a grey sweater and statement jewels to add a festive touch.  Neither necklace is my actual necklace but rather a hybrid of the two; Forever21 statement necklace with kaleidoscope stones circa 2 years ago.  Last, I wore my surprisingly neutral multi-colored glitter flats instead of sandals.  I think leopard flats would be fabulous as well.

My Weekend Uniform: Red Skinny Jeans Pt.2


Items included in set;  Old Navy pea coat $49, Old Navy Double V-Neck Sweater $25, Steve Madden leopard ballet flat $54, Steve Madden ballerina flat $50, Kate Spade bib necklace $398, Juicy Couture pave stud earrings $48, Forever21 diamond necklace $13

I am not embarrassed to tell you I wore this outfit two days in a row because it was so comfortable.  I am embarrassed to tell you, however, I have a stain on said red jeans that I don't think is going to come out.  Potential rest in peace red skinny jeans scenario ahead.  Unless a miracle happens, I don't foresee a Part 3.

12.04.2011

Kitchen Spice & Everything Nice

I find when you give a kitchen-lover something to practice their craft, it's two gifts for the price of one.

One gift for them and a second gift for you when they make you something homemade and fabulous.

Here are some of my favorite things...and a couple from my wish list.

Kitchen Spice & Everything Nice


  1. The Pioneer Woman Cooks: Recipes From An Accidental Country Girl by Ree Drummond $18.33  If you dream of a farm life, this cookbook from a former city slicker is for you.  Her pulled pork is awesome.
  2. Personalized Silicone Spatulas and Spoonulas $29.95  Nothing beats a Williams-Sonoma spatula and the personalized detail is a nice touch.  If you have issues keeping track of spatulas...problem solved.
  3. Joseph Joseph "Nest 8" Preparation Bowl Set $49.99  Whenever I see this, I think how perfect this would be for a first time home owner or someone who lives in a smaller space.  I also love the fun colors.
  4. Le Creuset 2.75 Quart Utensil Crock $34.99  Although I am perfectly satisfied with my utensil crock, I can't help but wish for this one.  Available in a variety of colors but perfect in white.
  5. Cupcake Surprise Pan $19.99  Dreamy filled cupcakes?  Done.  I am fascinated by this thing.
  6. "Kitchen Spice" Yankee Candle  A home scent favorite with notes of orange, clover, cinnamon and ginger.  No cooking necessary.
  7. Dining Room Measuring Spoons $24  How adorable?
  8. 4-Cup Batter Dispenser $14.99  I hate filling muffin tins because it is so messy.  This dispenser might be the solution.
  9. Zak Designs "Rose" Colander $8.99  I love anything mini including colanders.  Equally cute on an exposed shelf or countertop.
  10. Whoopie Pies Cookbook by Sarah Billingsley and Amy Treadwell  An Amish dessert tradition currently giving cupcakes a run for their money.

12.01.2011

Red Suits & Fur Coats

Tonight I am going to see these two:



To celebrate, I salute my favorite fashion moments from said performers.

 

Kanye's signature style for My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy was head-to-toe red; red suit with coordinating Louis Vuitton red shoes.  He wore it on the VMAs and SNL among other places.  I prefer his VMA look best with black undershirt and gold chains.  This is a look I could get down with...apparently so could Heidi Klum.  Can you believe they wore these outfits within days of one another?  Apparently September 2010 was the year of the red power suit.


I'd be lying if I said I wasn't considering adding this suit to my collection.  I mean if Heidi and Kanye can pull it off, surely I can.

Ultimate Double Weave Jacket & Columnist Pant
$138 and $79.90 at Express  To Buy

Here is my favorite Jay-Z fashion moment:


Just kidding!  That's Beyonce pretending him to be him!

I love her.  Why is she so crazy?

I have to hand it to Jay-Z, he pretty much sticks to jeans, t-shirts and suits.  Plus he likes to wear all black.


In this case, it is a fur coat and three-piece suit which is obviously a statement in subtlety and frugality.  This is taken from the American Gangster soundtrack and I recommend if you have any spare time to watch  the video because there are a million famous people in it (incl. Mariah Carey) and the child actor is astonishing.  While I think there maybe a couple Jay-Z fashion moments I like better, this is my favorite video from an overall style aesthetic.


Wish me luck tonight.  Allegedly Beyonce has been on tour with them.  Backstage of course.  She is pregnant after all   Maybe she will spot me in the crowd and finally invite me to be besties.  Fingers crossed!!!

P.S. I am committing to a less celeb filled December from here on out.

11.30.2011

Faux Fur Party

Speaking of cobalt....

These slippers:

Kate Spade New York "Charlene"
$75 at Zappos.com  To Buy

Plus our #1 girl's fur coat:


Equal this faux fur jacket from Loft:

Color Pop Faux Fur Jacket
$118 at Loft  To Buy

Is it amazing?  Or is it hideous?  Sometimes I can't decide with my love for anything obnoxious.  There are some Cookie Monster similarities, but I also think if executed correctly, this jacket could be pretty fabulous.

Maybe then I would get invited to party with B and Kelly.

11.29.2011

Cobalt Comfort

I saw these shoes at Payless...

Blakely Floral Flat
$26.99 at Payless  To Buy

And it made me think of these slippers...

Kate Spade New York "Charlene"
$75 at Zappos.com  To Buy

Fine.  One is a slipper and one is a flat.  Different purposes I guess.

But they are more similar than different with their cobalt color and floral-inspired accent.  I also appreciate the value of each shoe.  Both pairs are reasonably priced and will get worn often because of their comfort and color.

CC Tip:  These Kate Spade slippers are also available in red and black and would make excellent gifts for any lady on your list.

11.28.2011

Pitbull...Yet Again We Thank You

While I was busy at my Thanksgiving dinner bullying people into watching and/or caring about a football game that did not involve our hometown team, this magical blessing arrived circa halftime.

You're welcome family and friends.


Pitbull in an all-black everything that not only included a gorgeous leather jacket but also a matching set of gloves.  Because you know it is very chilly in a dome with a retractable roof this time of year in Texas.


I cannot locate who designed this jacket but I will tell you one thing...I love anything leather combined with knit.  Gucci has the 'lola' boot which began my love affair and this jacket reiterates why this combo is so amazing.  I mean...if it weren't amazing, would Pitbull really be wearing it?

Image
The Gucci 'lola'

So while the 'lola' is a beautiful equestrian piece of business, it is not very CC.  So here is another pair of boots in black leather and knit that has been on my radar.

Double Buckle Sweater Top Boot
$30 at GoJane.com  To Buy

Now back to Pitbull.  I bet some of you are asking why is Pitbull such a gentleman?  Who wears black pants to a football game?  Does the man own jeans?  Are black loafers acceptable football footwear?  Is that amount of chest hair appropriate on a national holiday?

The answer is I don't know.

I do know one thing though...I am thankful, yet again, for Pitbull's fabulous fashion.