Falling Back in Love... with American Eagle

My beloved American Eagle... oh, how I have missed you!

American Eagle is one of my favorite stores from back in the day. I worked there while in college... and maybe longer (kind of a blur now, hah). I owned so much of their clothing and accessories that entire outfits were AE and I could spot the brand everywhere. Just ask a girlfriend from my UF days, they'll vouch for me (that's you Dori, Lauren, Danielle, Alexis, Sara Beth, etc!)!

While I took a bit of a hiatus from the store in my late 20s, I'M BACK!

A few years ago the clothes seemed a little hoochie-ish (truth), but now there are so many adorable looks

that you'd be thrilled to be spotted in. Regardless of age.

I've been there twice in three days, first getting this striped tee. Then on Monday I picked up this awesome dress along with some gorgeous sparklies. I'm so back crazy in love.

soft drapey tee in light hot pink stripes

sale, $10 reg. $24.50 (almost ALL tees are currently $10!)

I've been looking for pops of color... here it is! (super light-weight and not too snug around my midsection!).

fiesta strapless dress

sale $24.50, reg. $39.50

This satiny find totally looks like a $150 dress from Anthropologie! Total steal.
Will be wearing this to everything from bridal showers to work meetings. Pair it with a cardigan or a blazer, a la Kristin Wiig in Bridesmaids (Thank you Budget Babe for the inspiration!).



I also picked up some jewelry from their impressive selection.
At my local store, jewelry is BOGO FREE! Online, it's BOGO 1/2 off.

I scored faux diamond hoop earrings with studs ($12.50); a long double key necklace ($15.50), and two awesome bracelets ($6.95 each on clearance). Only paid $22.45 for all four!
Unfortunately, I couldn't find most of it online so here's a pic of the new items...
the new dress is the background.

Here's the one bracelet I could find online...

chain bracelet in blue

sale $9.95 ($6.95 in store), reg. $15.50

The bracelets are amaze and a half when added with other bracelets and leather wraps.
See what I mean? And, I'm just getting started.

Bracelets: AE on the left and right, with my BaubleBar perfect leather wrap bracelet in the middle.

So tell me... have you checked out American Eagle lately?
What do you think?

5 Must Haves from Lacey (& Hubs Shares, Too!)

(&

Meet Lacey. I am beyond words excited to introduce you to her. Thanks to the powers of Facebook, I am almost positive I can declare her my oldest friend! How cool is that?? I moved around growing up so don't have many long-time friends yet Lacey's someone I always thought about.

We were middle schools pals here in Florida and she is the most sweet, genuine, good hearted person you'll ever meet. And, while I haven't seen her in person in at least 15 years, I still remember her having a laugh that made you smile. Heck, just her smile does that! I feel so fortunate to have met when I was younger and I'm thrilled to reconnect. Especially since we now have kiddies just a few months apart... those little ones are destined for a playdate!

Love Lacey's must haves. Have to admit that she sent me about 10 and forced me to narrow them down (hard work!). HYSTERICAL SIDE NOTE: When her husband asked what she was working on, he created his own awesome top five list; so classic guy I love it! ANSWER: Food, water, shelter, TV, comfy chair and sex! LOL. Dying. So awesome.

Ok, now that I've written a novel, please take a few more moments to read Lacey's 5 must haves, in her words...

Stud Earrings For Your Wallet

I know crazy right, but I’ve needed these more than a few times.  You’re in a hurry in the morning and realize only when you look in the rear view mirror half way to work that you forgot earrings. Doh!  This is my back up pair of earrings.  They hold up great in my wallet and don’t take up much room!  I have a pair of 10mm silver ball stud earrings.  Love them!!

TAGG tip: LOVE this earrings set from Target: silver ball stud earrings and faux diamonds, just $14.99!

Maybelline Eyestudio Gel Eyeliner

I love the soft look of pencil liner but I can’t stand that it disappears and is gone by the end of the day. I’ve tried liquid liners but I really don’t like how defined the line is, too dark and harsh. I need the best of both worlds something that has a smudge to it but great staying power… This is it!
So easy to apply (brush is included) and lasts all day! LOVE IT!! $7.99
(Bobbi Brown sells a similar liner but this one works just as great and a fraction of the cost).

Crystal Light To Go Packs

I struggle to drink my daily quota of water. Because water is just so bland to me, I have to perk up my water with Crystal Light (Raspberry Lemonade) to go packs. I always have one or two in my purse when I need a pick me up from my boring water.

 

Gold Bond Ultimate Healing (Aloe) Lotion

Large bottles, medium tubes and small travel tubes! Travel tube in my purse, a medium tube in my office and car and large bottle at home.  This stuff  is the best.  It doesn’t irritate my sensitive skin, it’s moisturizing and quickly absorbs into the skin without being greasy!
TAGG tip: She's right! I  know, a little strange because Gold Bond was associated with other less glamorous things, but this lotion is awesome. When my hands were crazy dry last year due to meds a nurse could not stop raving about this; I tested and they're right.

 

Clear makeup bag for all of my loose items

There is nothing worse than looking for your lipstick at the bottom of your purse, pulling out everything out except for the one thing you need!  I put all of my loose cosmetics in this little bag: lotion, lipstick, ibuprofen, compact, lip gloss etc. Everything is always in it's place and is easy to find in the bag because the bag is clear!! I got mine for $3 at Wal-Mart.  SCORE!

Check out Lacey's other must-haves....
Cover Girl Lash Blast mascara, a purse with a POP (hers is yellow); Lysol travel-size wipes; and Bobbi Brown Long Wear Cream Shadow (cement; a great natural color).

Put a Ring on it -- A Glam One, Of Course

Umm, Old Navy. I am in love. With you. And, your jewelry.

When did you start making such gorgeous baubles?

I've been seeing some pretty decent pieces here and there and then POW!

I stumbled across this oversized beauty... and there's lots more gorgeousness, too!

(Kim Kardashian is not the only who gets to have the ring fun!)

And, did I mention it's just $9.50??

Better yet, it comes in two more colors!

That turquoise is totally swoon-worthy if you ask me. 

Picture it with a flirty summer dress, a basic pair of jeans and solid tee, or simply a white tank with crisp shorts. Consider your look amped up.

I have a similar ring from F21 (it was whopping $3.80) that gets compliments like it's no one's business.

If you're looking to add some color, bling, glitz, fun and chic, I vote for this! Mmm mm.

Happy Memorial Day weekend, ladies. 
Enjoy three days of fun... just try to take a minute to remember why we get that day off of work! haha

Fun Jewelry Overload: Check it out now!

Lot of jewelry excitement that I had to take a break from my regular work schedule to share with you. Ok, who am I kidding, I love distractions and procrastination like nobody else!

Two super deals for FREE or super deals on quality baubles from brands that celebs adore (and not that you should wear it because celebs do; pointing the "celeb factor" out because if they can afford to spend gazillions and they're happily wearing costume jewelry, you know it's pretty good.

No green marks left on your finger after a ghetto-fab ring! haha)

Deal Numero Uno
Woot woot! Just sign up at Bauble Bar and take your pick of a FREE piece of jewelry as a welcome gift. Yes, FREE (high quality) sparkly for YOU! And invite your friends to earn 'points' that can be redeemed for bigger, bolder baubles. A friend -- with amaze taste -- works there so I can totally vouch for the quality factor here. Here's two examples of the complimentary jewels. This site just has soooo many drool-worthy pieces, I can't even get started.

 Deal Numero Dos
Another jewelry love, Jewelmint (the line by Kate Bosworth) is offering 60 percent off your purchase. Use CODE: SMMAY60. All jewelry is $29.99 so consider this a steal! Just scored this "Aqua Bomb" ring below. Love the vibe of the entire line, with its slightly off-beat, 60s thing that Kate has perfected. On the site, like that each piece is modeled by Kate or someone else so you can get a sense of how it will look on you. Have you had where something looks one size on a web site and you get it and it's totally different? Accidentally did that recently with a pair of earrings. Lesson=learned!

Hallelujah: I Can See My Necklaces Again

My necklaces were taking over! Or, that's at least how it felt.

After more than 30 years, a gal collects some jewelry, right?

While I can't say I'm loaded up with designer baubles, or stunning real diamonds and pearls, I do have plenty of costume jewelry that was getting lost in the woodwork because I didn't have a home for it.

Well, I suppose I did but it's a drawer that had so much I couldn't see what was going on.

Do you have that, where your jewelry is kind of all smooshed together somewhere instead of being displayed for easy perusing and enjoyment each day?

As you know by evidence of this blog, I'm not a DIY kind-of-gal. If you're looking to that, I direct you to sites like I Spy DIY, She's {kinda} Crafty, ...Love Maegan and Stripes & Sequins, for example. There's gazillions of fab ones out there, of women who post DIYs for jewelry, home decor, clothes, you name it! This girl's just not one of them. DIY challenged, you could say.

Solution

Check me out: I took some pretty brushed metal hooks by Command and ta-da,

I can see my necklaces again! My more 'delicate' necklaces are still safely stored but how great is this for some of my bigger necklaces that take up valuable real estate in my jewelry drawer...

(offering you an extra glimpse of my bathroom through my medicine cabinet! Note: Mitchum for Women deodorant,

daughter's Dr. Seuss book, a MAC blush brush and lots more randomness)

These adhesive wonders have been around for ages in white, but now Command is making them extra stylish so it looks like you went through a lot of effort to do this, when in fact you just stuck this thing to the wall and bada-bing, bada-boom! LOVE. Plus, it doesn't leave a mark or ruin your wallpaper when you opt to remove. Whoever created these deserves a bonus!

I bought mine at Target, though there's tons of options on Amazon in all different sizes and colors.

There's white, brushed metal, an oil rubbed finish like the pic below, and more. Just be aware of sizing since they do come in a variety of sizes as well finishes.

(PS: I know this is probably not really DIY but I have to confess that I am VERY excited by my little project and finding an under $10 solution. Maybe I'll get motivated to do something a little more flashy next time! Just don't hold your breathe waiting; took me this long to get here, lol).

5 Must Have Pieces of Jewelry + GIVEAWAY!

Giveaway alert: Read below and then get the scoop on how you can get your hands, err, ears on the most amaze, wear-all-summer pair of earrings. The gal you're about to meet is giving them away to one of you little hottie lovebugs.

Meet Angelica. A Chicago gal-at-heart who now lives in sunny Florida, she's a total sweetheart who I bonded instantaneously with over our love of the baseball team, the Chicago Cubbies, and of course wine. Hey, we were at a girlfriend's cocktail party, can you blame us? :) She's a Spanish teacher by day and  at all other times, an independent jewelry stylist for Stella & Dot, one of the absolute best, most affordable jewelry lines. Angelica said she was accidentally thrown into this new passion after lusting after a visiting friend's jewelry all-weekend-long. Every time she asked who made it, Stella & Dot was the answer! As you can say, the rest is history...

Are you familiar with the line? In my opinion, everything by Stella & Dot is designed to look like it belongs in some pricey, intimidating boutique, yet it's mindful of price so the average gal can still afford it (yipee!). It's only available online or through in-the-know stylists like Angelica. She often pairs with gals to have parties for girlfriends to show you her goods. So fun! If you want the scoop on a party or want a catalogue, click here to connect with the fabulous Angelica. Or, just stop by to say hi! I promise she'll steer you right! See below for the giveaway, but first...

In her words, Angelica's 5 must have jewelry items to complete any look!

Layered bracelets

…enough said. Add appeal with gemstones and don't be afraid to mix different widths, textures and colors. Lately I've been mixing my thin gold bangles with a bold enameled bangle to rave reviews. If you need a starter bangle, go for one with a bold color like turquoise or coral to liven up a look. For example, love this Paige enamel bangle.

Piled-on necklaces

Add dimension to your outfit by layering necklaces. I like to mix and match beads with metals. For a casual outfit I'll double layer my colored beaded necklaces or triple layer to dress it up. And, if you're not sure how to mix and match, I love necklaces like the one pictured that do the work for you (plus this one's on sale!)!

Vintage-inspired jewelry

You can't go wrong with a vintage inspired piece. It's a classic. For example, pearls dress up any outfit, from a collared shirt to a strapless dress or just a t-shirt. Also adore rings with that old world charm. This fleur ring is one of my favorites. It just looks like it was picked from grandma's jewelry box.

Bohemian-inspired looks

If you're a free spirit, bohéme will be right up your alley. Jewelry from Brazil and Morocco are trés chic. Anything from chunky, jeweled or simple. I like to wear this style with a great top and comfy jeans.

Statement necklace

If you have no fear and want to make a big fashion impact wear a statement necklace. Many designers are incorporating colorful jewelry that's versatile. There are pendant, bib, stone and/or metal necklaces being worn on the runway, Grammys and Oscars. Like this one, they're all super sexy!


  

Giveaway!

Who wants to win these tres perfection lovelies, the Charlize Teardrop Earring? Adore! 



To enter:

(be sure to leave an email address if you're not connected through a blog)

1. Visit Stella & Dot and comment here with your fave item.

 

For additional entries, leave a separate comment for each of the following:

2. Follow us through Google Friend Connect (it's on the right side of the page)

2. Follow @avggirlsguide on Twitter

3. Like Angelica on Facebook

4. Like The Average Girl's Guide on Facebook

5. Blog, Facebook or Tweet about the giveaway, just be sure to tell us!

 

Details: This giveaway ends Wednesday, March 9, Midnight EST and is open to US and Canadian residents.

A New Jewelry Obsession

Incase you haven't heard yet of JewelMint, it's the Kate Bosworth jewelry line and club, where similar to sites like Shoe Dazzle, you join (for free) and every month they recommend to you different pieces that are just $29.99 each... with free shipping. And, no need to buy every month...just purchase when you can't help yourself, or tell them you're passing! I love Kate's perennial chic, carefree style so was excited to check out her new line. Have seen it in different style mags and one of my favorite bloggers, Grace from Stripes and Sequins, said she ordered and loved.

This post was actually going to come at you in another week or two (trying to space out the excitement, lol) but today I received an email to get a whopping 60 percent off one item, for newbies only! You must check this site out. What's cool is that when you join, you answer four or five quick questions that help the site determine your style. This way, they recommend items to you that's perfect for... you! Suuhh---weeet!

With today's deal, I ordered the Lovers' Locket I've been eyeing. How sweet is this? Up close, it has a gorgeous antique look, yet it's modern with the single chain to the heart. And, I've totally dying for soft, long chains like this.

To redeem the 60 percent off on your first piece, while it lasts, use code FIRST60 when you check out on the site. Let me know what you find!

xo - Alyson

My Charleston Swag

While in Charleston I was tantalized by so many fun finds. There's an awesome market every day where you can find everything from spices and jewelry to home-made creations you didn't think could exist. Loved it. Plus, there's tons and tons of other fun shops to fill your days. I was so good, not buying any lovely items from J. Crew, Gap and other stores we have at home. I found just a few things... showing you them here!

Purple above-the-knee socks, American Apparel. After hearing about these, I believe from the talented gal behind I Spy DIY, a few months back, I've been wanting these like it's nobody's business. Funny: I guess because I'm not even 5'4 they're go all the way up the leg, so I had fun parading around the hotel room in these! Plus, ideal for Florida? Negative. It was 80 degrees today! Who cares.

Rose gold chain-link-style bracelet: LOVE! Found this at the market for a mere $10, when I've seen similar ones for twice as much and way more than that. Grace from Stripes and Sequins posted one recently. Rose gold is a new fave. Can't wait to wear this.

Chocolate Cow Tales: YUM! Have you had these? Totally random... they were in the Moon Pie Store (which is a silly "must visit" because of all the old school candy they sell and an photo opp to sit on the moon; wait for tomorrow. hehe). Chocolate with a cream filling. So good, and so hard to find near me.

Spices from Edna's: A super popular stand at the Charleston market packed with hundreds of fresh spice bags, and authentic Low Country fare. We went for the spices: Sexy and Sassy (garlic, parsley, cayenne, crushed oregano, basil, tomatoes, celery, salt and onion), and then Edna's marinade and her special Market Mix.

Mario Badesco facial spray: I heard great things about this spray with aloe, herbs and rosewater from Katherine Lande, a previous guest poster who also runs Les Luxes, a fashion, style and beauty blog. It's so refreshing (and a bargain at just $7.00!).

Some outfit posts from my trip coming your way on Monday... xo.

Winner: Lyndsay Skeegan Pearl Ring

While I'm sad to be parting with it, I'm even more thrilled to announce the winner of our one-of-a-kind Lyndsay Skeegan ring: Kristin from Tampa!

She gets the ring you see me modeling (worst photo ever, sorry gals!). It's gorgeous, as are the rest of the Lyndsay's pieces. I hope you'll check out her site. She's offering all fans of The Average Girl's Guide free, 2-day shipping with any purchase (a $12 value), which means if you order today you should get it by Friday. Fingers crossed! Her stunning pieces are ones you'll be creating outfits around they're so wonderful.

Congrats again to Kristin! Contact me with your mailing address.

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: Bows Galore

I absolutely adore bows! There's something fun and special about a bow being associated with a gift, and well, who doesn't love gifts?! My love of bows grew when the hubs got me the Tiffany & Co. bow pendant necklace for our anniversary (6 years!) this summer. I just adore it. There's something so simple yet so significant about a bow; there's always a lucky person who gets to unwrap it! Whenever I see a tee, a bracelet, anything with a bow I kind of really want it. It just evokes a little excitement.

If you want to embellish with bows -- under $100 -- check out these options! Trust me, you'll feel extra special when you do, and the holiday season is the perfect time to test out this look.

And, don't forget head back to TAGG every Monday for 9 ways to wear a new fabulous style, all under a c-note!

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

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.

Fab Find: Statement bracelets Under $100

Looking to refresh your wardrobe or business basics but don't know where to begin? Try a statement bracelet. Not only can a bold bracelet make a basic white t-shirt and jeans look totally stylish, it's an easy way to update your entire wardrobe!

Here, The Average Girl's Guide has pulled together nine finds that will give your whole closet a fresh feel... best of all, they're under $100! Don't be afraid to pair the dressy pearl J. Crew look with something casual, the lacey bangle with something rocker chic and definitely pair the colorful Kate Spade with everything to take a blah outfit from ho-hum to hotness. Now, go dazzle 'em!

Fab Find: Sprout Watches

As I've mentioned before, I have a slightly large watch addiction. I flat out love them. I have a compulsive need to always know the time, so I might as well look fashionable doing it.

My latest discovery? Sprout watches, which feature an organic cotton strap. Saw one while flipping through the latest Nordstrom catalog and I had to learn more. They're rugged and durable, yet totally stylish and practical. Available in a ton of color combinations at stores from Nordstrom to Target and Sears -- the eco-friendly watches are light-weight and feature a natural bamboo dial. For just under $30, these are a total fashionista steal! Sprout's also have smaller face sizes than the one to the right, but I'm partial to the larger one.

Color combinations range across the board, from this brown and blue hikers dream (and mine; the military green look is so fall 2010) to black, khaki, hot pink, red, light blue, navy and more. Check them out at your fav store: Target, Sears or Nordstrom. Sears right now has a few as low as $23.99!

Happy shopping! 

Fab Find: Sequin on Palm Beach

Oh. My. Goodness. New store obsession alert.

I was on my way to C. Orrico on S. County Road in Palm Beach (for another post) when I saw through a storefront window a sign displaying $20 for what looked like gorgeous bangles. Did my eyes deceive me? $20 on Palm Beach? For actual jewelry?? Gasp. I had to stop in... and I'm glad I did!

Sequin, open just since holidays 2009, is a fabulous jewelry boutique with super affordable prices on not only bangles, but statement necklaces, rings and so, so much more. The items are remarkably -- almost shockingly -- similar to the likes of pieces you'd find for at least twice the price at J. Crew, Banana and Nordstrom. And, those $20 bangles? A must. Plus, buy two for $35 or three for $50. It's just a few dollars more than going to Target and now you'll have quality bangles from a hot spot on The Island. Love.

Owned by sisters Kim and Linda Renk, this is Sequin's main location in addition to summer shops in Newport, Rhode Island. New merchandise comes in every week and it's made around the world, with a showroom in Manhattan. I just love it. These women, who have a background in fashion, saw an opening in the market for affordable, well-made costume jewelry and went for it. Let's all be glad they did. There are so many bold, exquisite pieces under $50 and $100 you could faint from excitement.

And, you know it's quality: they also produce for Badgley Mischka and have created private-label jewelry for a variety of retailers. They've also been featured in InStyle, Allure and People StyleWatch.

Sequin is located at 330 S. County Rd. in Palm Beach. You can find them here on Facebook. If you'd like to read a bit more about the owners and check out some products, visit Charm and Chain.

Stay Stylish: 5 Musts for a Palm Beach Look

Gals: listen up. While you can don some pink, lime green and white to try to pass for a Palm Beacher, today's look is much more sophisticated and diverse. To find out the quintessential items necessary to transform any wardrobe into a stylish ensemble ready for dining at Cafe Boulud, cocktails at Nick & Johnnies or just browsing on Worth Avenue, we recruited Colleen Orrico from C. Orrico, a 25-year old institution for Lilly Pulitzer and all that is traditional Palm Beach culture and fashion.

C. Orrico was founded by Colleen and her two sisters, Kathie and Casey, and was one of the flagship stores when Lilly relaunched her brand in the '90s. As the sisters say, the store "sets the standard for style beyond fashion, surf chic, comfortable sophistication." And, it does. As soon as you walk in you're transported into this colorful, inspirational place with fabulously cool clothes, jewelry, accessories for women, men and the little ones.

According to Colleen, add the following to your wardrobe to give it an authentic Palm Beach vibe:

• Eyelet tunic dress, private label by C. Orrico ($125). Sold in black, pink, white, turquise... buy one in every color! Love these.
• Gold chain necklace/belt, Trina Turk ($198).
• Can't afford the real thing? Check out this similar $35 option by Etienne Aigner at Macy's. Steal!
• Steven Bonannos "Palm Beach" classic sandals in platinum ($95). Invest in the real thing. They're made of hand-crafted, real leather and last forever. If you want to go bold, there's a million color combinations... even school colors like my beloved orange and blue. Plus, C. Orrico will design anything your heart desires. Want to take an old LV bag and make it into sandals (though I'm not sure why!)? They say, done. As for Bonanno v. Jack Rogers (I have two pairs): personal preference. Just get at least one pair STAT.
• Lilly Pulitzer aviator sunglasses ($180). New styles have bamboo detail on the side of the frame (not yet on web sites).
• White jeans, Lilly Pulitzer ($138). A Palm Beach staple. Period.

And, one more because Colleen couldn't resist (and we adore the jewelry line... and the designer who we met briefly while in the store):

• Enameled magnolia pendant necklace with turquoise, Jordann Jewelry ($100). Must also share that Jordann has five pieces under $25 in her collection where 25% of the proceeds go to Locks of Love. Check it out on her web site.

What do you think? Will you feel ready for a day on Palm Beach with some of these must haves? Only one way to know! Check out C. Orrico, which by the way is starting a phenomenal sale through October to empty out all current clothes in time for season. The longer you wait, the better the sale... but will the item you want -- in your size -- be there??