5 Must Haves from Jordan from Cali

Meet Jordan. I haven't even met her and I can tell by her blog posts, tweets and emails that she's a down-right hysterically funny, spunky, crazy adorable chick. Like the kind of girl you know you'd have a freaking blast with if you hung out. Jordan lives in California yet through six degrees of seperation (and a seperation of the continental United States!), we actually know a person or two in common. And, more fun than that... we discovered we're sorority sisters (woohoo, aephi!).

Besides being a working girl, she shares her life's musings on her bloggie, Queen of L.A., which is a total riot. Especially since it centers around her being... the Queen. Oh, and her intense obsession for shoes. Now, I love shoes, but this girl lurrrrvveeees shoes! She also loves leopard and pink, and did I mention shoes? Ha! Def. check outk her blog and say hi on Facebook. Excited to share with you her post today.

Check out her 5 must haves, in her words... promise you won't be shocked by #5!

I cannot tell a lie – I was so flattered when Alyson asked me to guest post on The Average Girl’s Guide! Being a part of such a wonderful and supportive community is one of my favorite parts about blogging, and I love all the interesting people I’ve met through our blogs. It’s a very cool feeling to read the words of someone you don’t know and still manage to feel instantly connected to them! Anyway, I think Alyson is fabulous, and I’m so glad to be here today chatting with all of you :) Hope you enjoy!

Iced Nonfat Chai Tea Latte / Starbucks

If you met me in real life, you would instantly know that I’m someone with a LOT of energy. “How are you so wide awake right now?” people constantly wonder aloud at 7 a.m. “How many cups of coffee did you drink?” Ha! The funny thing is, I’m NOT a coffee drinker – hate the taste! I’m a tea girl – a chai tea girl, to be specific. I like to start my days with an Iced Nonfat Chai Tea Latte from Starbucks – light ice, please.

So refreshing!

Kendra Scott earrings

If I had to choose my favorite feature, I would probably say my eyes – I was blessed with pretty blue eyes (thanks Mom!) and like wearing anything that draws attention to them. I have three pairs of Kendra Scott Danielle earrings, but the turquoise ones are my absolute favorite – the color is perfect and looks AMAZING with a tan!

TAGG tip: go to her web site to enter your email addy to get 20 percent off your online purchase! And, ps: been dying for same pair Jordan has, so if anyone has an extra pair just laying around...

Essie nail polish

Confession: I am a chronic nail biter. The ONLY way I keep them out of my mouth is to keep them bright, shiny, and polished with a pretty color. My favorite line of nail polishes, hands down, is Essie – I have started amassing quite the collection! My favorites are Chinchilly (a great basic grey), Demure Vixen (see pic; such a unique opal-y purplish pink), and Turquoise & Caicos;  (the prettiest aquamarine – so gorgeous on toes)!

Chowhound

If you read my blog regularly, you’re definitely aware of the things I love – fashion, friends, fun, and FOOD! I am a definite foodie – I pride myself on knowing all about the new yummy places to eat in LA. One of my favorite websites that keeps me up to date on lots of “food news” is Chowhound – it’s got a great message board where anyone can post food-related questions about their city. Trying to find a good brunch spot in Miami to take your visiting sister-in-law? Wondering what supermarkets in Arizona sell fresh shrimp? Interested in reading a review about the new dim sum place that just opened up in Chinatown?

Chowhound has all the answers for you. Such a helpful and interesting resource!

Same Edelman "Kendall" wedges

These Sam Edelman shoes are only a week old, but I’m already considering them a must-have! After banning myself from shopping for an entire month (head on over to my blog to hear all about the trials and tribulations of NO SHOPPING MAY), the very first thing I bought on June 1st were these babies. They’ve got a reasonable heel, a gorgeous leopard print (my favorite!) and they’re easy to put on, thanks to their Velcro strap! Leopard’s not your thing? They come in black leather too.

I got mine from Nordstrom and I’m obsessed!

Summer's new "it" flats

Love, love, love flats.

While summer is all about sandals and baring our tootsies whenever and wherever possible,

there's often times when the perfect casual flat is just... well, perfection.

While last year was all about Tom's, this summer it's all about Solodus.

Doesn't hurt that they're half the price as Tom's -- at just $28 big ones -- and feel a bit more feminine.

My only dilemma: which ones do I get??

 pink seersucker



lemon

papaya blue

There's at least two dozen more colors and patterns... this is just what I've narrowed down to.
And, while I don't need any black flats right now, I know a lot of ladies who are always on the hunt.
If you do, opt for a light-weight pair like this....

black

Perfect summer wedges

What's everyone been talking about this summer when it comes to trends?

Wedges + neutrals.

Well, here's a fab answer to both!

gap, elastic espadrilles, $59.50 (40% off in-store thru monday)

Just bought these today for around $30something (sorry, off-the-cuff math is not my thing!). They're soooo adorable and comfy, and looked killer with the million items I tried on in the fitting room.

I am all about the canvas in the front, which will look polished and professional with pants that cover most of the wedge, yet are still totally totally cool and comfy more casual looks.

ps: yes, it's a good size wedge, but the platform in the front makes this totally comfortable and wearable. they do run slightly big so be sure to try on in store (only big sizes left online!).

Looks for Less: Tory Burch flats

There are plenty of "looks for less" sites where they provide you with an affordable alternative to a pricey designer item or celeb look.

Two of my absolute faves are The Looks for Less and The Budget Babe.

Since there's already awesome gals providing that, I don't do it too often --
I rather send you right to the source. However, this time I'm compelled to share.

The subject: Tory Burch Eddie flats.

 Gorgeous in their simplicity, right? Totally! And, they even have memory foam. Nice feature.

Plus, I absolutely adore Tory. I love her personally as well as her looks.

get this: during a recent visit to her store in my local mall, the sweet sales gal said,
"love your eddie flats." I respond, "What, wait, excuse me?"
She totally thought my Gap City Flats were her shop's nearly $200 flats!

Umm miss, I paid $12 for these on clearance. Haha. The best, right?

Love when that happens.

Once on, these pups are remarkably identical. 

They're super comfy and clearly look just like a designer brand for a whole heck of a lot less.
I have a bronze pair (and a bright fuchsia pair!) that I wear almost daily with my skinnies.

TAGG deal tip: While City Flats are normally $39.50 (sometimes more if printed style), you can often find various colors at least half off or buy when Gap has a 40 percent off sale.
Right now, Gap has 30 percent off full-price and 15 percent off sale online, with code: GAPLOOK.
Find Gap shoes here!

 

My love of Camo... and Tory Burch

Do you gals have a crazy love for camo like I do?
I just saw these Tory Burch camo flats/slip-on sneaks in Nordstrom. At first I thought they were kind of crazy, however... they're fabulous-ness is totally wearing in. Ever have those moments? I do; takes me a little while to get used to something new. In this case it was easy.

I'm a huge Tory fan (constantly wearing her black patent leather reva flats and would die without my grey Tory wallet! Perk: she's coming the local Neiman Marcus momentarily! ahh!). Her clothes are impeccable and modern and her shoes are bold yet seasonless. Unfortunately for me, this average gal doesn't always have the budget to afford all of her lovely items. But sometimes it's worth a splurge. Check out the slip-ons I'm eyeing...

printed slip-on sneaker, $95.00

My only maybe... I dreadfully wish the detailing could instead be in purple or navy, or something not so... orange. While it is an IT colors for Spring, as a red head, I grew up never, ever wearing it. Felt like it clashed.  You won't find one lick of orange in my closet. Not one. It wasn't until I was about 23 that I wore anything pink and now? I'm obsessed. Maybe this should be my first foray into orange...?

As an aside, Tory also has these in a dark denim, but they're a little drab when you compare it to the fabulousity of these camos. Would you wear these? And, do I make the purchase?

How to wear camo: Would adore these with with either wide-leg jeans or my skinnies folded up and absolutely any color top; consider camo a neutral! (Did I mention I already have a pair of Puma lace-up camo sneaks from around 2008? Classic!).

And, if you're looking for camos with a lower price tag, check out these Keds slip-ons on sale at Zappos for just $36. Steal!

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

Shoe love: Dolce Vita for Target

I've received a lot of love regarding the sandals I wore on my recent TV appearance. Rightfully so! Have to say these Dolce Vita for Target sandals rock my wold, and they should rock yours for Spring, too. They give great height, are comfy and are super "in" for Spring. The wedge and stacked heels are totally 70s yet modern at the same time. Best of all, they have a zipper on the back (so fun!) and look like they should cost at least three times more than they do. Love when upscale brands do it up for Tarjay! DV sandals are usually $120 and up.

Check these out, and remember, if you spend more than $50 on qualified purchases (almost everything is) on Target.com, shipping is FREE! Easy enough to find accessories, beauty/make-up, etc., a few layering tanks or even household supplies. Might as well! Enjoy these... you're going to live in them!

Dolce Vita for Target Rope Wedge Sandals, $29.99

Also available in Black, Nude, Cognac

Two other Dolce Vita for Target looks worth checking out...

Cork Wedge Sandals in Pewter, $29.99

Also available in Black, Brown, Gold and White

Silver Wedge Sandals, $24.99

Also available in gold and pewter.



I can't help myself

While I have a post declaring my love of my love for neutrals on the horizon, I can't help but share the perfection of these Steve Madden heels in the interim. Just scoped them out on 6pm.com for a steal at less than $25; I will be shocked that if in two months you don't see almost identical shoes (if not the same ones) for the full price listed here: $70. They're also available in four other colors (including the denims below; so reminiscent of the '70s look that's absolutely everywhere for spring).

Pair these with your new or "vintage" (ie 2001!) wide-leg jeans, flowery or flouncy skirts to the office or on a date night, a hot pink pedi and everything in between. My white and neutral shoes get more wear than anything else in my closet come springtime.

If you need a little color, the denims are hotness with the tan piping, also just $24.95. Love the little platform, too, and the ankle strap makes walking easy with a higher heel.

OK, Friday afternoon rant=done. You may go home now.

xo
Alyson

Savvy Style: Champagne Heels

With New Year's Eve just a few days away, I have two things on the brain. 2. a smokin' outfit with even hotter heels. 2. champagne! Since it's practically common practice that gals wear black on the big night, why not spice it up with your heels? And, what better way to glitz them up than with champagne-colored ones ! Are you bubbling over with excitement ? I know I am!

Truth be told, I have a pair of champagne-colored Nina T-strap heels that I love to death; they look good dressed up, with jeans and are in that neutral metallic family that coordinates with everything.

Want to try the look for NYE? Test out a pair of these shoes, three of which are from Zappos (I heart their free shipping!). 

RSVP in Vista, on sale for $52.48! (reg. $75). These might have to be mine. Ob-sessed.

A. Marinelli in Rancho, on sale for $72.40 (reg. $112). Strappy and sassy. Loving the glitz, and the ankle strap keeps it from slipping  away from you while booty dancing (oh wait, maybe that's just me).

Steve Madden in Feelixx, $89.95. Wowza! You need good balance for these hotties. The platform gives you great height -- i.e. a slim line -- in a peep toe pump. Those off that pedi!

Kate Spade Lalita, $325

(if you prefer black, head to Zappos: on sale for $195!). Yes, these are a splurge, but totally worth it. You'll get so much use (and even more compliments). The heel height makes it practical to party for hours.

Happy New Year's gals! I'll have a special 5 must haves tomorrow, and then taking Friday off for an extended weekend with the fam. Excited to meet more of you gals in 2011!

Savvy Shopping: Sparkly Flats

New rule: every gal deserves a pair of totally outrageously, gorgeous, fun, flirty, shimmer, shiny flats! Yes, flats! Whether it's because you live in a city like New York or Chicago and walk a hell of a lot more than I do or because sometimes you need a break from heels, it's critical to have a pair of totally blinged out flats that make you feel down-right-special everytime you put on those bad boys. Don't you have a few items in your closet like that?? They literally transform my mood, and I walk around on a mini cloud all day.

Whether it's for daytime -- weekend mall, movies or work -- or for a night out -- date, holiday party hopping -- don one of these gorgeous little slippers to shimmer and shine all-day-long! I love contrasting the glitz casual jeans and a blouse, or totally rockin' it with a hot little dress and tights this holiday season. This way when you're party hopping, you'll the one ready for more while your friends feet are killing them! Score.

Steve Madden; $59.95

A total steal! Scoop these up in either gold, black or multi-color because they're totally rockstar! Love that they're not over-the-top. You can pair these with anything!

Nina; on sale, $59.95

Another perfect pair! Nina's have always treated me right. Totally comfortable, and I'm always getting loads of compliments. These would be no exception.

Kenneth Cole Reaction, $79.00

These are called "Glass Slippers," do you need any other reason? Also available in black.

Juicy Couture Snowflake flats, $67.45

Ok, these are more for lounging around the house and running to the mailbox, but how darling are they? Falling in lust with the sweet snowflake and sequin detailing, plus the cozy faux fur lining.

Madden Girl sparkly flats

Perfectly prim and proper, girl this girls a whirl if you're venturing into the sparkly thing for the first time. I could wear these every day, perfectly transitioning to a night out.

Divine Deals: Lots of options

Good day, and happy Friday! What a happy Friday, indeed. Not only am I typing hardly able to contain myself because my gorgeous, sweet little daughter is turning one tomorrow (!) but there's so many deals around town that I just want to start shopping. Eek, don't tell the hubs!

Here's a few deals that you should know about:

APPAREL
For those that live near a Nordstrom Rack, get excited: spend just $25 for $50 worth of shoes, apparel and more at this totally fabulous designer discount store. The deal is available for purchase through Groupon until Monday, and you can use the gift certificate until Dec. 31. Perfect for holiday shopping (for you or someone else; don't worry, we don't judge!).

Another Groupon perk? They've extended another national deal where you can get a $50 gift certificate to American Apparel for just $25. Perfect spot for basics (think layering pieces) and I hear their thigh-high socks are out-of-this world. Wear under high boots, with short skirts or for a lazy night on the couch. The Groupon certificate expires Feb. 19, 2011.

New to Groupon? Click here. Already a member and want get today's deal, click here!

SHOES

One of my favorite online discount shoe retailers, 6pm.com has some swoon-worthy sales this weekend. Boutique 9 is up to 75 percent off. There's adorable flats as low as $30 and check out these heels for just under $60? Tell me you wouldn't get a million compliments on these puppies and wear them for years? Great purchase, I'm kind of obsessed.

6pm also has boots Under $50 and Under $100, depending on your price point. Shop early for the widest selection of sizes and styles.

EAT
If you don't buy restaurant gift certificates online for yourself, you're missing the boat. I'm frequently eating at my favorite restaurants for 50-80 percent less than the peeps sitting next to me. Many cities have local options -- for example, I'm always taking advantage of South Florida Dines (use promo code FOOD for an extra 20 percent off this weekend!) -- but Restaurant.com is one of the best options for a discounts at restaurants around the country. Right now, get certificates for hot spots in your area for  80 percent off, just use GOBBLE at checkout. Yes, that's $2 for a $25 gift certificate!!!!

OK... last but not least, just check out your favorite store, and visit our holiday shopping tips for more ways to save.

Why spend full price when you get exactly what you want for less?! -- the average gal. xo

Now: Look Weekend Chic

Just put together a stylish outfit that's perfect for a gal on-the-go. Remember, it's about putting together items that go together, not about being matchy-matchy.

What's the worse-case scenario? Tomorrow you're in a new outfit anyway.

Get rid of that fear of outfit commitment and start having fun in that wardrobe you created!

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.

Divine Deal: Fab Flats up to 70% off

If you're looking for fab flats, you MUST head here now. Sale goes through the weekend.

Up to 70% off all major brands including Nine West, Steve Madden, Taryn Rose, Kimball, Jessica Simpson, etc.

Adore these totally versatile grey Jessica Simpson flats for $27 (that also come in three other colors)! Tons of other great options in same price range to kick up my shoe wardrobe!

Divine Deal: Up to 70% off Enzo!

A total classic; just $29.48

Awesome shoe sale alert: Score Enzo Angiolini shoes for up to 70% off. Lots of stylish flats, fab heels for work and awesome boots, for under or around $50! The same you'd see at Nordstrom easily for $100+.


LOVE! Pair these with everything; $39.60



If you're in the hunt for some great new, quality and comfortable shoes, these are a total steal. I find that Enzo's run pretty true to size.

Check 'em out here: http://bit.ly/ayaPKi.

Kind of drooling over this pair of grey suede boots for $44 (reg. $159)!



Dresses, skirts, skinnies, oh my! $44.32



Savvy Shopping: Hot Black Heels

Black heels are a serious wardrobe staple. In fact, this average gal has at least a dozen types that as I tell the hubs, are totally, 100 percent necessary. Open v. closed toes, different heel heights, gladiator, mary janes, lacey detailing, you name it. I need them all... and am hungry for more!

Enter my Fall inspiration: Michael Kors suede pumps. 

How fabulous are these? Can the back detailing with the zipper be any more glorious? Plus, the wedge is way more comfortable than a heel of this height. You'll wear this with everything, all season long... and be the hottest ticket in town. Also love these in the other shades: purple, grey and tan. ($150).


For those looking for a less expensive alternative, here's a few options:

Adore these Merona suede wedges from Target for a teeny-tiny fraction of the price ($30). Granted, there's no zipper, but that will make these last a few more seasons since they're less trendy. These also come in plum, taupe, bordeaux, brown and grey. Totally wearing these with everything, from work skirts to jeans and my new green cargo pants. Nothing is off-limits here.
TAGG TIP: Target's shoes are BOGO 1/2 off through Oct. 2. Yes, GREAT DEAL. Tempted to buy these in black and plum (or, maybe mix and match with a pair of camel brown ankle booties, or grey boots, or...)!

Can't resist the zipper?

Check out these options. First, we have a black peep-toe, zipper-detail in the front and back, cut-out platform heel with slight gladiator feel from Madden Girl from Steve Madden that's totally hot without looking totally uncomfortable. Score! And, less than $60 to boot. Adore.

Next, we go full-on bootie with this hot number from Urban Outfitters that can be added to absolutely anything: skirts, skinny jeans, a dress with belted cardigan, you name it. Instant style for just $58.

And, check out these obsession-worthy heels from Forever21. Platform, peep-toe, crazy-high heels with a back-detail zipper and contrast colors that's to-do for. And, just $27.80? Might not be the most comfortable shoes in your closet, but they'll certainly be among the hottest! I can only work so many miracles...

This is just the beginning!

The options are limitless when it comes to fashionable heels. Find a rockin' pair and live in them all year long. Look forward to seeing you out on the town! xo