I want Tom, and his Shoes

While I adore what heels do for my figure -- making me look long and lean -- I'm definitely a flats girl these days. Between running around a little girl, a work-from-home-job and some health stuff, this gal loves her flats! Just because I'm smitten with flats, doesn't mean I have to succumb to any granny looks.

I've been debating a pair of Tom's for at least a year (ridic, right?). Are you familiar with them? They're a little "earthy," though they're big time now, with major shelf space at Nordstrom and other big brands (even Whole Foods!). I've always half really, really wanted them. I'm now about 85 percent sure they're for me; I hear they're major comfy and I love the kind of off-beat, modern yet funky vibe they offer. They come in black, navy and other neutrals but I'm digging the more adventurous ones below.

BEST PERK: Just a five-year-old brand, the company's founder decided from the start that for every pair sold, he would donate another to a child in need. Freaking awesome, right? I LOVE it, love it so much it makes me want a pair more! Hah. So the decision...

HELP! Which pair should I get?? 

 {burlap}

 {stone-washed in grey}

 {stone washed in yellow}

{pink sparkle}

actually: my daughter has these in pink and silver; LOVE for kiddies (& adults)!

Comment here with your recommendation, my helpful lovebugs!

xo - alyson

A New Look for a New Year

I'm getting bangs today!


Me, 2 years ago
with my
beloved bangs.

 It's a New Year so spicing it up is definitely in order! Resolutions are so hard, often destined for disappointment. So this year, in addition to the ever-popular "I'm going to lose 20 lbs" resolution, have you made any fun, fashion or style resolutions -- which are totally more obtainable??

I had bangs about three years ago. I loved them though the hubs did not (so, apologies to him today!). This might sound nerdy, but I thought it made me look a little cooler and more chic, and even when I was lazy to blow dry my hair, I'd take two minutes to do my bangs and felt like I looked totally presentable.

I grew them out when I got pregnant. "Who has time to do their hair with a newborn?!" was my fear. Well, I miss them. And, the ends of my hair, especially in the front are really wimpy. When I got super sick six-months ago my naturally crazy thick hair became practically non-existent. I already chopped about seven inches earlier this Fall because the thin, long hair just wasn't working, and now that the new hair is getting thicker I'm ready to BANG IT! I'm just ready for something new! And, they look great on many face shapes. Check out these celebs who adore them too. I'm very excited. Next outfit post will feature the bang, fo' shizzle.

So... what's your 2011 style resolution?
Are you experimenting with new eye and lip colors? Trying to add waves to your gorgeous mane? Mixing and matching more of your wardrobe? Playing with a new color of clothing? Adding more funky colored shoes or flats to your collection? Trying skinnies (skinny jeans) for the first time? Using more chunky pieces of jewelry?

I say go for it! If it's a new look, or possibly  fleeting trend, head to Target, Forever 21, H&M, Zara, CVS (for make up and beauty) etc., to test without breaking the bank. If you love the look, you can invest in a better quality item to last you longer.

Excited to hear about your beauty resolutions!