7.31.2013

Recently, I've had a few kind readers email me about my handbags. Which are my favorites? Which would I recommend or consider must - haves? I was flattered that anyone would be interested, because I've honestly downsized so much over the past year. Quality over quantity is my new motto. It's easy to get caught up in the latest "IT" bag of the moment. I do it too, all the time in fact. But as I can't afford to spend hundreds of dollars on new designer bags, I happily use the ones I already own and love. I then focus on the bags I see myself saving for in the future.

This is most of my collection, but I've broken them down into categories in an effort to keep this post simple. Let me know if you have any specific questions!

The Classics

These are the bags I reach for when I want to feel instantly polished and put together, no matter where I'm going or what I'm wearing. 


The Colorful Clutch
J.Crew Factory Envelope Clutch (similar)
Rebecca Minkoff Pouch (similar)

Great for adding color to any outfit. They are perfect for a night out.



The Everyday Bag
Juicy Couture (great option)

I've been carrying this bag most of Spring and Summer because it works with everything! It carries a ton without feeling heavy.


The Crossbody
Rebecca Minkoff Mini Mac (in almond)

This bag is so versatile. You can carry it as a clutch, as a shoulder bag, or crossbody which is how I prefer it. Great for shopping, festivals, concerts, or anytime where you want to be hands - free.



The Dream Bag
Chanel Jumbo Classic Flap in Caviar Leather, Silver hardware. 
This is my ultimate I-can't-believe-she's-mine dream bag. I love her. Enough said. 



My next bag? Well I've had my eye on the LV Neverfull for quite some time. I once obsessed over the Speedy, but I think a practical tote that I can throw over my shoulder and go is more my style these days. And I definitely want a red or burgundy bag for this upcoming Fall season. 

What are your must-have bags? Are you eyeing one in particular?

♥ Noelle 

7.29.2013




Dress - Express (wore another version here, my favorite for Summer)
Blazer - H&M (similar)
Pumps - Nine West
Bag - Michael Kors
Watch - Fossil
Nails - Essie "The girls are out"


It's nice to have a break...from Summer. Namely the heat. I love Summertime. Going to the beach, lounging lazily by the pool, spending more time with friends, outdoor adventures. But the heat often becomes unbearable for me come mid-July. I start longing for Fall, and I definitely start missing my sweaters and jackets. It was cloudy and rainy on Friday evening, and although I heard many complaints from co-workers and friends, I was so excited to venture back into the depths of my closet where my cooler weather pieces  are hanging. I gave my favorite crisp white blazer some much needed attention. I paired it with a little black dress and some patent pumps. The next day, it was back to sweltering heat. Business as usual.

♥ Noelle

7.25.2013





Tee - Loft
Skirt - Loft
Heels - Guess (old)
Clutch - J Crew Factory (love this one)
Jewelry - Fossil, J Crew, Oia Jules, Target, Boutique



I don't know about some of you girls, but I will never get used to having my picture taken. I've been blogging for about four years now, and up until I moved into our condo this past January, I was very happy and comfortable with taking pictures of myself in a full length mirror. You could always see the entire outfit. Which is the point, right? Then we made the move and I quickly discovered that the lighting in our condo is terrible. Not one single place to put my mirror that will allow for good picture taking. I think I actually cried when I realized that I might not be able to blog about my outfits anymore. My fiancé told me I was being silly, and that he would take the reins as my photographer. Although I'm happy with my recent photos, I still feel awkward in front of the camera. Neighbors will pass by and I'll tell Nate to put the camera away and act "normal". "Let's just pretend we're talking" I'll say! I'm sure they all think I'm strange. But I guess as long as I know that this activity is perfectly normal in the blogging world, I'll try my best to just go along with it.

♥ Noelle



7.23.2013

My best friend and maid of honor threw me a beautiful bridal shower at my favorite winery on Saturday. My closest girlfriends and family were there, and I was so touched by everyone's well wishes, congratulations, and love. Although it was cloudy and rainy, I definitely felt the warmth from my girls. The wine helped too ;)

Wearing: H&M dress (check stores), J Crew Factory necklace, Rebecca Minkoff pouch (similar), (love this too), Steve Madden sandals (similar), Henri Bendel ring




I loved the way our table was decorated! It was just lovely. I couldn't ask for more.


♥ Noelle

7.17.2013


It seems like everywhere I turn (mainly on blogger and Instagram), I see strappy high heeled sandals gracing everyone's feet.  Simple yet chic, I am dying to grab a pair for myself. They are the perfect alternative to flat sandals, and much more dressed up then flip-flops. I own so many classic pumps that I think I've forgotten entirely about showing off my pretty Summer pedicures, and really, what a travesty that is! It's time I switch things up. The great part about the pairs I have my eyes on are that they are all super affordable.









Which pair do you like?




On to a quick outfit from lunch with the boy yesterday, where I definitely would have loved some strappy heels!
Another pair of shorts paired with my beloved Zara pumps.



You've seen everything before, besides the printed shorts from, where else? Loft. I swear this is my last pair for the Summer ;)

♥ Noelle

7.15.2013




Wearing: Forever 21 skirt, Loft sunwashed tee, J Crew pumps (similar), Juicy bag, Oia Jules India necklace, Loft necklace (check stores), Fossil watch


This Summer, much like most Summers, I do everything I can to head 45 minutes west towards the beach. It's been a life-long dream of mine to live by the ocean, even if it's in a tiny run-down shack. Who knows when and if that dream will ever come true, but in the meantime, I've been living in shades that remind me of the sea. I've had this little cotton skirt for years now. I was tempted to donate it, but gave it one last try on Friday night and ended up loving how casual and light it is to wear. The navy tribal print is perfect for pairing with other shades of blue.

I hope you had a great weekend!
♥ Noelle