Yellow... Not So Mellow

My nails are yellow.

And, not because I have jaundice, but because I actually painted them like this.

Really. I thought I'd be all fashionable and cool, but I learned a valuable lesson:

all looks are not for all people.

This one is for me! Haha.

color: mellow yellow /
ignore the awful at-home mani.

It looks way cuter and less jarring yellow close up, I think, than it does looking at it here.
"School bus" yellow, my bro said.  I don't think that was a compliment, right?

I was hoping for a chic Chanel Mimosa look-alike after seeing Jennifer from The Looks for Less show off similar colors in a recent Manicure Monday.  While I was still on the fence, I yearned for the bright color after a tweet exchange with Dianna from The Budget Babe I was convinced this was for me.

Negative.

Do not despair however. I totally think yellow nails could work on some. Particularly if you are darker skinned than I (doesn't take much; ha). If nail polish isn't for you,

check out these sunshine-soaked accessories to get you in the mood...

Anything you're totally loving??

o'neill crystal cove in dandelion, $27.20 (reg. $34)

Wear with anything! Love the pop of color; these are thisclose to the same look as a million pricier options.

dooney & burke large slim wristlet, $58.75 (reg. $75)

Use this wristlet as a handy pouch to store make-up, coupons, anything during the day and pull it out for "emergency" happy hour situations. comes in five colors.

much love illy, large yellow rose ring, $11.50

Talk about a steal on a statement maker! She also has adorable yellow rose earrings for just $6ish!

Bonus: the gal who makes these is aweosme.

old navy, tie-dyed infinity scarf, $14.94

Don't be shy about pairing this with a pattern. If you're not there yet, opt for a solid color.... maybe in a contrasting color (purple, blue, etc) to add depth to your look.

What do you think about the color yellow?
Any favorite yellow items in your closet?

5 Must Haves by Florida Gal, Loni

Meet Loni. This girl has it going on! A recent U of F grad (go gators! my alma mater), I met this super sweet hottie while she was working at It! Weddings & Events in Florida, my favorite company for creating memorable moments. Loni's one of the bloggers for its It! Weddings Florida... I can peruse her colorful, gorgeous posts all day long. She also spends free time sharing humorous photos and even texts with her boss on Gad Day, Every Day! Cracks me up. 

PS: the diversity of her must haves totally rock my world. She's convinced me I need #5 ASAP (especially since I see everyone with one; peer pressure, indeed!) and #1 and #3 are my must haves, too!

I personally can't wait to get to know this girl better, and I hope you can, too. Start reading what she has to say on those bloggies and read through her must haves here.

In her words, here's Loni's must haves of the moment!

Watches with changeable bands

As a (recent) college student (Go Gators!), I've learned plenty of tricks to make the most of my money. My most recent purchase was this exact watch for under $40 from Aldo Shoes. I have worn it every day since purchase. The bands are bright, bold and each are a different texture. It matches everything! Well, you can't really wear it with a silver necklace...So ALMOST everything.

Cross-body bag

A MUST for a Floridan. A 10 lb. oversized trendy purse is no reason to sweat in the 90-degree Florida heat. Sorry ladies, but you do not need to carry a 4-inch hair brush, hairspray, perfume, deodorant, moisturizer, concealer, powder, blush, eyeliner...... and the list goes on. If any of these items are an essential, simply buy the travel size!

TAGG tip: check out the pic to see a chic alternative to wearing the "cross-body" bag; one shoulder dresses up the look a little.

Bobby pins

Another must-have for the Florida fashionista. Bobby pins are a great way to concur the most devastating hair disturbances such as humidity, rain and hurricane-force winds (for those of you who have never been here, let's just say the weather is as unpredictable as Lindsay Lohan's legal status). They are great for pulling back bangs, the boho braided bangs, the half up and the side braid (is it that obvious I like braids?). They are also perfect for giving your ponytail a more polished look by wrapping your hair over your hair tie. I personally like to buy the ones sold at Sally's Beauty Salon. Not only do they come in a cute little tin can, they hold better than your average drugstore pins.

Tip: Make sure to match your hair color.

The chunky block heel

The thought of spending over $100 for a pair of sky-high stilettos that leave my feet swollen and resembling a butternut squash, makes me cranky (my apologies for the visual). I don't know about you, but I used to be under the impression the more you spend on shoes, the less your feet hurt. Well, that was until a good friend of mine said, "My girlfriends and I always kick off our shoes at the same time at the end of the night - whether they are Jimmy Choos or Steve Maddens." And she was so right! So to combat this common problem, I only seek out shoes with LOTS of support. My current favorite is the chunky block heel.

TAGG update: the ones shown are Bally; a little intense at $795! BUT check out this AWESOME look for less that seriously has me contemplating a purchase: Boutique Nine's Quilo on sale on Zappos for $84 (reg. $120). So stinkin' gorgeous in the neutral, grey and black!

Double wall tumblers

If you see me in public, you will never see me without one of these. I am ALWAYS thirsty (sorry, this may be a personal problem). I prefer the double wall tumbler over concealed reusable water bottles because it prevents me from putting them in my purse. For some reason, all water bottles tend to leak - ruining phones, makeup, etc. I've found this to be a great solution. Bonus: They do not sweat when filled with icey-cold beverages. You can find these in stores such as Target and Pier One in practically any pattern/color.

5 Must Have Accessories for Spring & Summer

Meet Tara. She's the founder of Haute Lunch, a beauty and fashion blog that I've been eating up the past few months! A Chicago gal, I love reading about her favorite new products, what she's testing out and more. Oh, and she's always having fun giveaways... can't argue with that, right? As I've gotten to know her, I've learned that on top of being totally gorgeous and a super sweetheart, she's also crazy smart. This gal is going for her PhD. Don't mess with this smartie!

I'm thrilled that today she's sharing with us her 5 must have accessories for Spring & Summer. I totally agree with these and love that she is giving us affordable options for some lust-worthy pieces. Invest in timeless pieces, not trends.

In her words, here are Tara's 5 must have accessories for spring & summer:
Hello, gorgeous! I’m Tara, founder of Haute Lunch Beauty & Fashion Blog, and I’m absolutely thrilled to be writing a guest post for TAGG! If you’re anything like me, you probably love fashion, but can’t afford to buy a new wardrobe every time a new trend emerges. My solution to this “champagne taste, beer budget” conundrum is to embody the latest trends in my accessories! Thus, I have put together my five must have accessories to help you keep up with the trends this spring and summer!

Rose Gold Tone Watch

For the last couple years, white ceramic watches have been all the rage. Although ceramic watches are definitely still “in,” expect to see a surge of rose gold tone watches in the months ahead. Michael Kors always seems to be up to date with the latest watch trends, and his gorgeous “Madison” watch (pictured above) is now just $167 on Amazon! Unfortunately for my boyfriend, this is a very recent price cut from the original $225.
TAGG tip: Adore this choice because the rose gold features are not over-the-top. While I've been eyeing a traditional rose gold MK, I like this better because of its versaility!

Envelope Bag

Due to their structured, polished look and versatility, envelope bags are a must have accessory this season! Envelope bags can come as clutches and be neatly tucked under your arms, or they can come with straps, like the Cleobella “Nikko” bag pictured above, which can be worn as a cross body. At $330 on ShopBop, this is definitely a splurge, but there are tons of options to fit any budget, such as this Murval bag on Amazon for just $21.

Platform Wedge Sandals

Wedges have been taken to new heights with the latest 70’s inspired trends. Platforms are all the rage, and a fabulous pair of platform wedge sandals are a must this season! Try a pair in a nude color, such as the Børn “Bindi” sandals pictured above (available at Nordstrom for $125) to tap into two fashion trends at once. However, if nude shoes aren’t your thing, there are many bolder platform wedges to choose from, such as these gorgeous BCBGeneration Jessup sandals.

Statement Necklace

If you don’t feel like dressing up but still want to look fashionable, pair a statement necklace with a simple t-shirt and shorts this summer to take your look from ordinary to extraordinary! The Sequin multi-chain and crystal necklace in gold pictured above is priced at $161 on BigDropNYC and would make any outfit extra special, but I also found this fabulous statement necklace on Etsy for just $28 (who doesn’t love one-of-a-kind, handmade jewelry?)!

Something Color Blocked

Putting together an entire color blocked outfit might seem a little too daring for some people (myself included). Luckily, this trend can be captured in accessories, such as a bracelet, like the Marc by Marc Jacobs bangle shown above ($68 on ShopBop), a scarf, or even shoes! Using accessories to keep up with the latest fashion trends is always a great idea because you can be stylish without feeling uncomfortable or spending a ton on new clothes!



GIVEAWAY: Gorgeous Wristlet from Francesca Joy!

 It's funny that sometimes you have to venture far to find something awesome close to home.

Enter: Francesca Joy.
[keep reading to hear about the new brand, plus enter to win one of her wristlets!]

A new boutique-style brand is now available in my own backyard featuring hand-painted designs in bold bright colors, I discovered it through tweet'ing it up with the co-founder and designer, Elise Francesca. She's a Connecticut gal now in Florida who designed the collection based on her fine art paintings. As soon as I clicked through to the web site I was immediately blown away by the gorgeous, whimsical and beautiful bold designs. For summers at the beach or pool, or a vacation to a tropical destination, these are oh-so perfect.

Available online to you out-of-towners, she's opening a store with expanded offerings this Fall on the Worth Avenue in the glam Palm Beach. You'd expect with hand-painted designs and a Worth Ave address you'd have a pricey pricetag. Fortunately that's not the case. I find the wristlets the best value, however there's so many awesome options under $100! She has totes, t-shirts, chemises, table runners, pillows, cocktail napkins and golf shirt dresses. Check out the collection here. And, you can stay current on her latest designs by following her Facebook page.

I just LOVE knowing that each one is painted on its own (it's not copied to look like its hand painted like I find at Homegoods with all those affordable "paintings," haha). This is a piece of real art, ladies! 

Keep reading for a giveaway!

This is the designer, Elise, in one of her golf shirt dresses...

GIVEAWAY!

The beauty behind the line is giving one lucky TAGG reader a wristlet of her choosing. Aren't they just the prettiest little lovelies?! Adoring.  Plus, everyone gets $5 off any item (excluding wristlets; they're already a steal at $30!). Just let her know where you found her when you order.

To enter (required):
Visit Francesca Joy and comment here with your favorite item/design. Leave your email address if it's not linked through your profile.

Additional entries
(1 entry each --- leave a comment letting me know about each one in order for me to count it):
"Like" the Francesca Joy Facebook page / "Like" TAGG Facebook page / Follow TAGG through Google Friend Connect (right-hand column) / Follow TAGG on Twitter / Follow Elise Francesca on Twitter

Details: contest ends Sunday, April 3 at midnight. Available open to those in the United States.

Go Green for St. Patty's

A little green can go a long way... with your money and your ensemble! For St. Patrick's Day on Thursday, accessorize with any range of shades from this gorgeous hue; a lovely lepruchan said so! While I'm not normally a green gal (have red hair, can look like Christmas, hehe), I am totally coveting these green items that add a pop of St. Patty's Day color to my look.

Betsey Johnson, Lovely Leopard Stud Earrings, $30.

M.A.C., Swimming eye shadow, $14.50

Nordstrom, 'Whisper' Cashmere Wrap, $59.50

Essie, Pretty Edgy, $4.50

Asos, Lime Boyfriend Belt, $14.34

(ps: must.have.this!)

And, for an eye-catching look, try these...

Urban Outfitters, Shamrock Lens Wayfarer Glasses, $10.50

My Outfit: Sushi dinner with the fam

OK, I'm semi, totally, mortifingly embarrassed but I'm going for it anyway.... please have sympathy for me!

During my new blogging process I've scoped lots and lots of blogs, and one thing I love is seeing what other people wear... and where they got it. I also think that concept that everyone woman loves getting a glimpse at another woman's life is what makes TAGG's most popular feature the weekly 5 must haves post where we feature a different gal every week showcasing her... must haves.

So, I'm going to give it a whirl. I've made a conscious effort in the past year to develop more of a personal style and buy pieces that I truly love, not just because they're a great deal. I want great blouses, funky pieces that I can mix and match, clothes with personality... Clothes that show my personality! And you know what? Maybe people are just giving me post-baby sympathy, but I've gotten more compliments about my look this year than in years past. For whatever reason, I'll take it.

So, without further ado, here's what I wore to a casual sushi dinner with my hubs and daughter last week. Instead of jeans and a tee, layer pieces that you normally wouldn't. I love the chunky knit with the stripes, and then grommets on the purple suede heels. I'm also a HUGE watch fan; this is one of my favorites... j'adore the white leather band. I wear it with everything.

sweater: loft

stripped 3/4 tee: gap

skinnies: f21

heels: kenneth cole reaction

bracelet set: h&m

white-leather watch: michael kors

So, what do you think? Do you like my look? And, should I keep showing you my outfits? Be honest!



Spotlight on NYC Jewelry Designer, And Giveaway!

HOT JEWELRY DESIGNER ALERT!

I love to highlight up-and-coming fashion and jewelry designers... especially when they'll offer to donate one of their pieces to my fabulous followers! Woohoo! The latest? Lyndsay Skeegan. I discovered her gorgeous, modern and sophisticated pieces -- made from glass and and freshwater pearls -- on Facebook, and then immediately found myself on her web site for Lyndsay Skeegan Designs for at least an hour mesmerized by all her necklaces, bracelets and stunning, over-sized cocktail rings. No joke.

Inspired by 1940s black and white photos by Irving Penn and treats she found in her grandmother's jewelry box, each piece is handcrafted by Lyndsay in Manhattan. Isn't there something so magical and wonderful when you're wearing a piece of jewelry and you know just who made it and where it came from? Those are the pieces you'll have forever and share with family.

And, Lyndsay's are ones you'd want to share... eventually! Plan on years of quality use. All the pearls are hand knotted on silk thread, and the jewelry is embellished with vintage box clasps and velvet or lace bows. Plus, you'll receive her jewelry in a gorgeous packaging, complete with faux pearl strings that I kinda want to wear as a bracelet!

Lyndsay's designs hover around the $100-$125 mark, so it's super affordable to get quality, classic pieces for a very reasonable price. Boutiques charge the same or more for fake looks!

In the holiday spirit, Lyndsay has been generous enough to do two things:

1. She's giving away a gorgeous petite L'Emmanuelle ring, which retails for $70.  It is completely handwoven (as opposed to being glued) so each one is totally unique. It takes hours to make just one ring! Looks just like the one to the left, except more of a creamy rose color. (it's my personal fav... even in the petite size, it's just perfect. I tested it; I'd rock it with everything from jeans and a cute blouse to a full-out black gown. It's seriously that versatile).

2. Get free, 2-day shipping with any purchase from her site! That's a $12 value, and guarantees that even if you wait until almost the last minute, you'll get it in time for Christmas (tell the hubs or boyfriend now!).

So, you want to win the absolutely gorge-ous ring? Here you go:
CONTEST SCOOP:
Required: simply head to Lyndsay's site, pick your favorite item and tell us on this comment section. Winner will be selected randomly so pick whichever your heart desires! Contest ends Thursday, Dec. 16 at midnight.

Additional entries:
- "Like" The Average Girl's Guide on Facebook.
- "Like Lyndsay Skeegan Designs on Facebook.

It's that easy! Hope you love this young, yet super talented designer, as much as I do. Grab her pieces now.

9 Under $100: Grey Greatness

Forget dreary black this winter: add a fresh dose of grey to your winter wardrobe (and spring and summer, for that matter).

Especially when paired with color, it really, really POPS! I kind of have a love affair with this glorious neutral. There's so many shades to play with. Go for the light, almost silver options, the 'burnout' faded looks or dark ones that border on black.

I recently scored grey heels (and purple studded ones, but that's for another post! tee hee) and am obsessed. They go with everything! I love pairing them with my jeans, my navy work pants and am can't wait to mix them with black tights and skirts. I also own the short-sleeve sweater cardigan from Express shown below, on sale now for a measly $29.99!! Grab it and just wear it with a basic long-sleeve shirt (try color! Mine keeps getting paired with purples), makes you look totally current during a quick run to the grocery store or to the movies.

Have I convinced you yet?? Here's nine ways UNDER $100 (yay!) to add this neutral in your wardrobe.

Win it: Stylish Jewelry, Fab Scarf

You've been waiting for it, you've been asking about it, and now here it is: OUR HOLIDAY GIVEAWAY! It's your chance to win stylish, delicious accessories from the uber-awesome H&M! Not familiar with this shop? It's sort of like Forever 21 on serious crack (is that comment socially inappropriate?! Hmm, I digress). H&M brings super stylish, quality to everyone and also has designer collaborations (Hello, Lanvin is coming this month!). They're expanding quickly in the U.S. but so far it's mostly along the east coast and just two in Florida. You want a piece of the action?

Here's the scoop:

Enter to win one of two prizes (just in time for the holidays, no less!). Here's your choices:

1. A jewelry smorgasbord ($26 value) featuring an oversized onyx and silver cocktail ring; a glitzy bracelet set in black tones with faux diamond bracelets and more (I bought this for me; LOVE, love for a night out or just two or three to shimmer up any outfit!); a rugged bracelet set in brown tones with leather studded bracelet, rope and more; and a faboo glamorous black headband that I'm so mad that I didn't get for me. It might be more elaborate than you're used to, but it looks gorgeous on and the black makes sure it's not over-the-top.
 

2. A bold, colorful scarf ($15 value) that goes with absolutely everything! Don't let the following description throw you off because I can't describe it as wonderfully as it looks: actually, ya know what? I'm not describing it because my almost description stinks! Check out the photo... wrapped up on the left and laid out on the right.  Funky yet totally awesome when tied up, right? With every color of the rainbow popping through, this would make a shlubby tee look instantly stylish. Wear this bad boy every day.

Here's how you win (required, just once):
Comment on this page, telling me which giveaway you want to win. Entries must be received by Sunday, Nov. 28 and the winner will be announced Tuesday, Nov. 30 on this post, on Facebook and on Twitter. If selected, you must reply within 72 hours, otherwise I'll be sadly forced to contact the next person.

Additional entries:
1. Fan Us On Facebook (one entry): "Like" The Average Girl's Guide on Facebook.

2. Tell your Facebook friends about TAGG (once daily): Tell your friends to check out the Facebook page of your fav new site for fashion, deals, food, fun and more by updating your status with mention of us. Write our name with the @ symbol before so it reads @TheAverageGirl'sGuide... do this because it will create a link so I'll see when you've done this. If it doesn't become a link, I won't know you're sending fb love my way (though I will appreciate it!).

3. Subscribe to this blog (one entry): just click "follow" along the right-hand column
 
4. Follow Us On Twitter (once): follow The Average Girl's Guide on Twitter and comment to this post to let us know.

5. Tweet about the contest (once daily): Tell your friends on Twitter about the contest. The tweet must include @avggirlsguide to qualify.
 

Well, that's the scoop on our giveaway! Easy enough to qualify and winning is so much fun!
--xo, The Average Gal

9 Under $100: Leopard Print

Leopard print is seriously hot this year, but honestly, it's hot almost every year. Here, we're providing nine ways to integrate this perennial favorite into your daily wardrobe without breaking the bank. Keep in mind, it can be challenging. There's nothing worse than a bad leopard pattern. Ruins the look and makes it look cheap, sometimes even when it's not!

Not comfortable with doing this bold look? Wear it in the form of a cami underneath a solid-color cardigan or jacket; wear a bracelet to liven up a look (leopard goes with any color!); even spice up your undergarments... kind of exciting knowing what's underneath that traditional work look! You don't have to be afraid to wear leopard to the office, though. Depending on your profession, recognize you need to tone down your other items to make it work, however definitely go for a pencil skirt, a cardigan or sweater, or even leopard shoes! Every time I wear my leopard platform peep-toe heels, I get a ton of compliments. Best of all, they go with everything. Next up, I want leopard flats!

Fab Find: Gameday Bangles

Happy Friday! Two very important things:
1. Even if you don't like football, do not stop reading this post. You'll be mad at yourself later.
2. It's Friday, which means it's almost a weekend filled with football (like it or not!). While I'm a big fan (GO GATORS), a lot of what I like is taking pride in my teams and spending time with family rooting on our favorites -- or hoping a hated team loses!

And - DUH! - the chance to dress in fun, cute spirited clothes. And, accessories!

Assuming, you have the outfit picked out already, enter: Gameday Bangles.

A-DORE! While they're perfect to add style to your casual gameday outfit, I totally want these in other colors to wear out. The owner of Gameday Bangles, a totally adorable and awesome red-head named Caro, has a whole slew of colors you can mix and match up your arm to show team love or just plain fabulousness. Made with ribbon that covers a bangle, they are available in orange, royal blue, navy blue, purple, maroon/burgundy/garnet (depending on team preference!), red, yellow-gold, black and pink. Most come in a polka-dot, too, and the orange and black come in gingham.

Would love adding two or three chunky ones up my arm to spice up a black dress, or even polka-dot to add a little punch to a solid color tee.

Plus, and this is a huge one: since they're made of ribbon, they don't make noise when wearing multiples. One of my pet peeves/aggravations of loading bangles up the arm!

The chunky ones are $6 each or just 2 for $10; the skinnies, available in orange and blue (for now), are $3 each or 2 for $5, and the skinny with knots is $4. If you buy one of the pink polka dot, a percentage goes to support breast cancer research. To purchase, or to see more samples, visit the Gameday Bangles Facebook page.

What's awesome is that not only are you getting a custom, handmade bracelet, you're supporting a fellow fab gal starting a new business. So, show her some love and look good while doing it! 

A happy Friday, indeed.

Divine Deal: Happy Bday to Piperlime

Woohoo, I love celebrating birthdays, especially when it scores me a divine deal! To celebrate the birthday of Piperlime, the fashionable online shoe and accessories store owned by the Gap-Old Navy-Banana Republic conglomerate, they're giving anyone who makes a purchase today a $25 gift certificate on their next purchase. Plus, one in every 100 gets a $100 gift card!

While it's never a deal to buy if you don't need it -- remember that! -- Piperlime has some great buys to spice up your wardrobe without dropping a lot of cash. For example, I love almost every item in their under $75 page. Boots, jewelry, cardigans, you name it! And, just like Zappos, shipping is free as is returns.

5 Must Haves: Katherine Lande

The Average Girl's Guide is starting a new regular series called 5 Must Haves featuring gals around the country sharing their 5 must haves... the question is, what's the topic? Tune in each week to find out.

Katherine Lande:
5 Must Haves... for a stylish girl on the go!

You think you have an eye for fashion? Meet Katherine. As Fashion & Style Director for Palm Beach Media Group, she creates all things visual at Palm Beach Illustrated, Naples Illustrated and Weddings Illustrated. Cover design, fashion spreads, you name it. And, they're jaw-dropping.

 

She constantly has her pulse on the hottest trends and loves to explore rare and unique vintage fashion, jewelry and antiques.  She also has a totally worth-reading blog Les Luxes where she writes about luxuries, both big and small. She's an in-the-know fashionista; you want to hear what she has to say. Trust me.

Here's her five must-haves for a stylish gal on the go (who wants to go shopping?!):

Layer it up

I get chilly easily so I always carry a lightweight scarf with me wherever I go. This one from Calypso has a pop of army green, which I'm obsessing over for fall. Its easy to carry around and appropriate with all my looks whether its a day in the office, store browsing on Worth Ave., or location scouting for a photo shoot. Be sure to look for a lightweight fabric that will transition well from indoors-to-out and season-to-season.

G1 scarf, Calypso St. Barth, $95
calypso-celle.com


Go Bold

This fall it’s all about a bold lip, definitely a fun change for me. I’ve been inspired by all the fashionistas I saw during New York Fashion Week and the styling of J. Crew's fall catalog. The stylist for J. Crew used Nars Funny Face, a fave of president and creative exec director Jenna Lyons, but I've found that Make Up For Ever Rouge Artist Intense 36 offers the right look as well. Be sure to keep the rest of your face simple, which is perfect for those days I'm running a bit behind. And since it’s the main beauty product for the entire day, less to touch up and lug around.

Nars lipstick in Funny Face, $24 and Make Up For Ever lipstick in Rouge Artist Intense 36, $19



Safety First

Being a constant girl on-the-go, I'm never disconnected from my Blackberry. On days when I’m on location shooting fashion editorials I have a tendency to drop and misplace it constantly. A chic leather case from Kate Spade keeps my Blackberry safe no matter if it's floating around in my handbag or lying amongst my styling supplies. This stylish must-have item also makes for a perfect gift; what girl wouldn't want one more luxe accessory?

Blackberry pouch, Kate Spade, $25, katespade.com
{TAGG tips: 1. for your iPhone carriers like this gal, check out Kate's gorgeous version, $40; 2. free shipping on all ground orders, thanks Kate! and 3. sign up for their mailing list on the homepage and get 15% off your first order).


Statement Making

I'm a lover of shoes, statement shoes at that, but constantly running around I need something that can take wear & tear. This season a very trend-on short boot will be just the thing. I’m envisioning wearing this Joie ankle boot with just about everything in my wardrobe, which makes getting dressed that much easier and quicker. By day I’ll pair them up with my favorite skinny jeans, and by night will rock them out with a structured dress or something embellished with fur or sequins for a chic rough-luxe look. Because the boot is short I can play around with adding a sock or tight if there’s a chill in the air. One good ankle boot = endless quick and easy looks.

Joie Santo strappy ankle bootie, $425, bergdorfgoodman.com
{TAGG tip: Can't afford the real thing, or want to test the trend for less? Check out this pair from Aldo or this one from Target!}



Freshen Up
When I’m feeling tired or have very little time to go from work to an evening of events, I turn to Mario Badescu’s Rosewater Facial Spray for a fresh pick me up. It’s beautifully fragrant and formulated with herbal extracts that give your skin an instant boost and added hydration. It can also be used to spray on dry hair, an added bonus when you only have a few minutes to freshen up. Also perfect for keeping your skin hydrated when flying. Highly used during the social season.

Facial spray with aloe, herbs and rosewater, Mario Badescu, 4oz: $7, mariobadescu.com