Comment of the Week



from pillow talk | dressing solely for your body type


Blog Love: Manhattan Nest


Today's blog love feature is all about my new favorite blog, Manhattan Nest.



Daniel's blog is ridiculous, in the best way. I stumbled across a project of his at Apartment Therapy, moseyed to his blog and couldn't stop reading. I went all the way through his archived posts on my first visit. He has been creating some beautiful and clever projects in the short time he has been blogging. But what really keeps me coming back is his witty writing.

Here are a few of my favorite posts:



Desk with a View - Daniel made this modern desk from a nightstand picked up off the curb
A Whole Mess of Staples - Daniel took an incredibly basic unfinished IKEA bed and uphostered the whole thing, Crate + Barrel style. Genius.
The Doors - Daniel's ingenious method for blocking the visibility, not the light, on his beautiful pre-war apartment bedroom doors.

Have any of you been following Manhattan Nest? Any new blog loves you want to share with the rest of us? Leave a comment!

Inspired: J.Crew {Tissues + Ribbons}


I am sure you remember my latest wishlist item, the J.Crew Tissue Ribbon Cardigan. As I said before, I am not only in love with the sweater, but the whole look.



{Tissue Ribbon Cardigan - $55, Silk Camisole - $55, Crystal Trilogy Necklace - $118, Total - $228}


I love the idea of a chain necklace paired with a tonal cami cardi combo. I found a few pieces that echo the feel:


Ruched Jersey Cami - Forever 21 - $11.99 (Orig. $22.80)
V-Neck Cardigan - Ann Taylor - $29.99 discounted from $39.99 (Orig. $78.00) {get 25% off sale items with coupon code | SALE 25 + free shipping!}
Cascading Mixed Metal Rhinestone Necklace - Urban Outfitters - $9.99 (Orig. $28.00)
TOTAL: $51.97

What do you think, is this something you would wear?  Did I hit the nail on the head, or did I totally miss the mark? Leave a comment.

Happy Shopping.

Look for Less: Anthropologie Climbing Cowlneck



So, this look for less isn't really all that much less expensive. I should have called this post, "another option for almost the same price". But, It's such a dead ringer I wanted to tell you all about it.


Climbing Cowlneck - Anthropologie - $29.99 (Orig. $48.00)
Pleated Pintuck Tank - Go Jane - $27.90

If you don't want to spend the $30, you can use this spot on climbing cowlneck DIY that Emily sent me. If I ever get a day with my sewing machine, I am all over this.

As if all that babbling weren't enough, I did want to tell you that I did try on the climbing cowlneck while I was shopping with Jackie. To my dismay, here's my review. The neck was really open, like flash the world when you move open. Also, the arms were really closer to a sleeveless shirt than the pictures appeared to me. With a sigh I put it back on the rack (and walked home with a few other things I scored on super clearance to mend my broken heart).

Thanks for reading,

Happy Shopping.

Spied: Floral Rhine Cardigan


I spotted this cardigan over at Pink Ice. I was instantly attracted to the floral pattern, but what really got me were the J.Crewesque bling buttons (shown on this discounted J.Crew cardi {30% off with coupon code | EXTRA30} end tangent). They are fabulous.


Floral Rhine Cardigan - Pink Ice - $24.99

What do you think? Is this something you would wear?

Happy Shopping.

Pillow Talk: Dressing Solely for your Body Type


Today I want to talk about dressing for solely for your body type. I have been mulling this topic over for months, and am really interested in what you all have to say about it.

The fundamental concept I have settled on is that dressing for our body type may be hindering us more than helping us. I am consistently receiving comments on the blog explaining that someone doesn't want to try a specific style because they are sure their body type forbids it, and it makes me incredibly sad.



{via}


One of my greatest concerns about dressing for our body types is that the entire concept infers that there are only certain things "right" with our body type and many more things we are trying to minimize or play down. As a woman, why on earth should I be trying to minimize my hips? Is that not an inherent quality of womanhood (and eventually motherhood)? I despise the idea of dressing a specific way because we are ashamed of our body, or parts of our body. (If you want some solid reading on this topic, I suggest Sal's Down with Shame post.)

If there is a style type you admire but fear you may never pull off, I say let go of some of your prejudices and at least try it on. Observe other women you know that dress outside the box and decided for your self if something might work for you.

Some of you may remember my favorite quote from Nina Garcia's book,

"I marvel at a six-foot tall woman in stilettos, a big bottom woman in a curve hugging skirt, a flat chested woman in a tight, low-cut t-shirt. When a woman embraces her imperfections, they can become her greatest strengths, definers of her character and spirit."

So how about you? Do you think about your body type when getting dressed or shopping? Do you care or could you care less? Do you let body issues limit your choices? Or...?

I'm very interested in what you all have to say about the topic. Leave a comment...

Reader Request: Anthro Dress to High School Reunion



I recently got this request from Tiffany,

I just bought this dress in Navy from Anthropologie. I love it but it's kind of plain all by itself and I think some accessories could really turn the dress into a great outfit. I feel like it's kind of dark for summer but I'm planning on wearing it to my husbands 10 year high school reunion in a couple weeks. Any ideas for shoes and accessories? 

Thanks for the help!

Tiffany


I thought I would keep the ensemble simple and sweet, using pink accessories and fun shoes:


Secret Treasure Dress  - Anthropologie - $118.00 {similar here - under $50}  
Simple White Mums - SimpleSerendipity's Etsy Shop - $4.00
Skinny Leather Belt  - Shade - $3.99 (Orig. $10.50) <---- I have posted on this belt several times, and am so stoked about the price drop
Mossimo Odell Floral Flats - Target - $12.99 <--- own them, love them
Accessory Total:  $19.98

What do you think of this outfit, is it something you would wear? Any tips on dressing for a reunion? Leave a comment!

Happy Shopping.

Meet Ruche

I am so excited to introduce you all to my newest sponsor. You may remember my posts about Ruche in the past introducing them as a fantastic and more reasonably price alternative to stores like Anthropologie.

Ruche is a modern women's boutique with a vintage touch. Their store is stocked with items that are new, in-style, trendy, yet still inspired by a vintage look.

And of course my favorite part? Their items are reasonably priced. They share my belief that you don't have to empty out your pocketbooks to look good.

They carry various small boutique brands and eco-friendly products. Here are some of my favorite in stock items:


1 - Pearly Gates Cardigan - $26.99
2 - Baby Blossom Bouquet Earrings - $12.99
3 - Connecting the Dots Navy Top - $19.99 (Orig. $23.99) 
4 - Bundled in Coils Elastic Tan Belt - $17.99
5 - C'est La Bonne Vie Dress in Gray - $34.99
6 - Stitched Floral Peep Toe Heels - $36.99

Make sure to check out all the goodies at Ruche!

Happy Shopping.

And the Winner Is....

I loved hosting the giveaway from Fashion to Figure last week. Thank you for all your comments, it was so fun! The winner is lucky number 9,


kristyn

A big thank you to all of you for participating. It was too fun!

Friday Wishlist: J.Crew Tissue Ribbon Cardigan


Tis the season for new arrivals. Many of my favorite retailers have debuted new items that will transition from late summer into early fall {Ann Taylor, LOFT, J.Crew}. This means one important thing to me, the return of the cardigan (as if I need any more). I spied this cardi at J.Crew and wanted it immediately. And I love the ensemble they have it styled with. I'll take it all home, please.


Tissue Ribbon Cardigan - J.Crew - $55.00

I love the light weight, ribbon detailing, and the unexpected color. 

What do you guys think of this cardi? What's your fashion dream this week?

Thanks for reading,

Happy Shopping!

Fashion to Figure {Giveaway}

***Giveaway Closed***


I was recently contacted by a plus size retailer called Fashion to Figure. As I looked through their website I could see they have worked hard to design trendy plus size clothing that will appeal to fashionable women of all sizes.

They say,

We started this business with the understanding that many women feel there is limited selection when it comes to plus size clothing. We see no reason why women’s plus size clothing should be limited in selection, and it’s our goal to give our customers as much choice as possible when it comes to plus size apparel.

In addition to the online store, they also have physical stores (mostly in NY + NJ, click here to see locations).

And now I get to do one of my favorite things, offer you a giveaway! They were kind enough let me give one of you this sweater:





{Shadow Stripe Cardigan}


Here are the rules:

This item is plus sized, please keep this in mind when entering.

You can enter in either (or both) of the 2 ways listed below. Each entry must be notified in the form of a comment on the blog.
  • Leave a comment telling me your favorite thing at Fashion to Figure.
  • Post about the giveaway on your blog, Facebook, or Twitter and leave a comment telling me about it.
Make sure your first name and a valid email address so I can contact you if you win. The winner will be determined by giving each entry a number and using random.org to select the winning number.

The Giveaway ends on Sunday, July 25, at 10 PM (Mountain Standard Time).

Thanks for reading and good luck!

Outfit Under $100 {Wingtip with a Twist}


I went shopping last weekend with Jackie. We were doing a bit of a wardrobe spruce up (including her first foray into the realm of skinny jeans and a fantastic trip to the anthro clearance racks). We started at Urban Outfitters and I fell in love with these shoes:


I think they are a wonderful twist on the oxford trend that is happening right now. I love that they hint at the style, while still maintaining the femininity of a dainty flat.

I liked the shoes so much, I decided to build an outfit around them.

Fab Basic Knit Top - Forever 21 - $4.50 $3.00
Beaded Feminine Necklace - Forever 21 - $7.80
Summer Breeze Skirt - DownEast Basics - $29.99
Kimchi Blue Two-Tone Wingtip Skimmer - Urban Outfitters - $34.00
TOTAL: $76.29

What do you think of these shoes, would you rock them? How about the outfit? Leave a comment!

Thanks for reading,

Happy Shopping!
{If you are interested in hiring me as a personal style consultant, email me for rates}

Spied: Striped Bow Top



Melissa told me that bows are the new ruffles, and I couldn't agree more. I love this top's sweet bow neck:


Pins and Needles Striped Bow Top - Urban Outfitters - $14.99 (Orig. $32.00)

What do you think of this top? What about bows? Leave a comment!

Thanks for reading,

Happy Shopping!

Reader Request: Yellow Necklace



I got this request from Erika,

Ever since I saw that yellow DownEast Basics necklace on your website, I've been trying to find one like it but to no avail. I'm dying to have some yellow accessories and was hoping you could help me find one as darling as the DownEast Basics one! Thank you!

That necklace was darling (an unique):


See? Do you want it? Well, you can't have it. It sold out - quickly. I did come across a pretty good substitution, and guess what? It's on sale.You're welcome.


Yellow And Gold Bobble Necklace - Charlotte Russe - $3.99 (Orig. $7.99)

What do you think? Is this something you would wear?

Thanks for reading,

Happy Shopping!

Look for Less: UO Ecote Ankle Strap Sandal



I have had my eye on this pair of UO sandals for a few months. This weekend I realized F21 had a reasonably priced pair:


Ecote Ankle Strap Sandal - Urban Outfitters - $28.00
Simple Summer Sandals - Forever 21 - $10.80

What do you think of this look? Would you rock these streamlined sandals?

Thanks for reading,

Happy Shopping!

Inspired: Ann Taylor {Tiered Charmuese}


I was browsing Ann Taylor's must-have outfits this weekend and stumbled on this outfit. I think its ridiculously chic and would totally wear it.


I noticed that the centerpiece of this outfit was deeply discounted and found a few budget pieces to create the look:


Lacy Pearl Necklace - Forever 21 - $7.80
Tiered Charmuese Front Top - Ann Taylor - $29.99 (Orig. $58.00)
Lightweight Twisted Front Cardigan - Old Navy - $12.97 (Orig. $26.50) {also available in stripe for $10.47}
Weaved Beads Bracelet - Forever 21 - $7.80
Skinny Leather Belt - Shade - $10.50
Liliana Cast Platform - Endless - $25.98 (Orig. $31.90)
TOTAL: $95.04

What do you think of this look? Is it something you would wear? Leave a comment.

Thanks for reading,

Happy Shopping!

Friday Wishlist: Anthropologie Fountain Overflowing Tee


Apparently, I am drinking the Anthropologie kool aid lately. I love almost everything they have in stock right now. Like I mentioned last week, I received the July Anthro catalog, and it is love at every turn. This was another things that made me stop and stare:


Fountain Overflowing Tee - $68

How great is that floral print, and the cowl neck? I luuuurve it.

What do you guys think of this tee? What's your fashion dream this week?

Thanks for reading,

Happy Shopping!

Anthropologie Sale Picks and Free Shipping


Anthropologie is still offering free shipping with an Anthro card. I don't know if this deal ever ends, but it was going on a month or so ago as well. I got my card last month and this is a very dangerous thing. Just don't tell my husband I have the option of free shipping all the time, because only he will truly grasp what that means for our bank account. I found some things you all should buy, not stuff I have sitting in my virtual shopping cart, I swear.

Here they are:


1 - Ridgeway Blouse - $19.95 (Orig. $88.00)
2 - Puckered Eyelet Jacket - $59.95 (Orig. $118.00)
3 - Yardarm Tee - $29.95 (Orig. $58.00)
4 - Climbing Cowlneck Tee - $29.95 (Orig. $48.00) {yep, still haven't pulled the trigger}
5 - South Pacific Top - $39.95 (Orig. $68.00)
6 - Solstice Necklace - $19.95 (Orig. $42.00)

You can get your own Anthropologie card by clicking here.

You guys eyeing any of these sale picks? Leave a comment!

Thanks for reading,

Happy Shopping!

Spied: Gap Striped Tee


I was at the mall a few weeks ago and spotted this top on a mannequin. I ran to where they were hanging and couldn't find the color or size I wanted. I was really surprised to see that not only was my size and favorite color combo still available, but that it is on sale. And as if that weren't enough, you can get 25% off your entire purchase at the Gap (today only, online and in stores) with a coupon code.


Striped Cuff-Sleeve Tee - Gap - (EDIT) $9.74 $11.25 (Discounted from $12.99 $15, Orig. $19.50)

Don't forget to enter coupon code | GAPSAVENOW at checkout.

(According to reviews this runs a bit big, and a bit long.... keep that in mind when ordering.)

What do you guys think? Is this something you would wear?

Thanks for reading,

Happy Shopping!

Look for Less: Anthro Vanilla Bean Blouse




I have seen this look a like floating around a bit and thought I would pass it along. If you missed out on this Anthro top, you can grab a similar one at F21.


Vanilla Bean Blouse - Anthropologie - $128 {sold out}
Sheer Elegance Top - Forever 21 - $24.80

The budget version is unfortunately missing the polka dot pattern, but it's a pretty good match in every other way.

What do you think? Is this something you would wear? Leave a comment!

Thanks for reading,

Happy Shopping!

Protect Your Clothes: Laundry Tips


This is the second post in my Protect Your Clothes Series, you can read the first post here. Today, we discuss laundry tips that can help prolong the life of your clothes.


{via}


I found a few guidelines for maintaining the life of your clothes while laundering them. {via wisebread + about}

Read the Care Label

It takes a few seconds, but reading the care labels may save a lot of heartache when your clothes come out of the wash. Check for instructions that may say to wash only in cold, or with like colors. Don't forget to check for drying instructions as well. The label may indicate that the clothing needs to be dried on low, or drip dried.

Stop Washing So Often

Washing is the fastest way for clothing fibers break down. The fewer times you have to wash, the longer it your clothes will last.

The following steps can also help you wear a shirt or a pair of pants more than once before washing:
  • Tide To Go Pen: I am completely obsessed with these pens. I have them in my purse and car. They cost less than $5, last for a long time, and will save your shirt when you manage to spill syrup down the front.
  • Lint Roller: Sometimes a pair of black slacks doesn't really need to be washed — it just needs lint and hair removed. Make sure to swipe a lint roller before leaving the house, to keep yourself looking professional.
  • Deodorant: Your shirts will smell better if you smell better.

Spot Treat

Always treat a stain as soon as possible. Also, remember that heat from a clothes dryer can bake stains in, so don't machine dry a garment until you know it's clean.

Wash in Cold Water

People who wash their clothing in cold water will notice a drop in their energy bills quickly. In addition, many fabrics (especially nylon and elastics) hold up better when subjected to less heat. Cold water detergents (like this one) are designed to remove dirt even without the help of hot water, but even normal detergent will work well. A capful of bleach will do amazing things for the brightness of your whites but it can also help break down the fibers of your clothes, so I would recommend using it sparingly.

Obey the Laws of Color Separation

Always try to keep like colors washed with like colors. Reds and blues fade easily and everyone knows how one red sock can turn a whole load of whites a lovely shade of pink (Felicity's "pink guy" ring a bell?). Try your best to keep dissimilar colors apart in the laundry.

Zip Up Jeans and Hoodies Before Washing

Unzipped zipper edges on pants and hoodies are often very rough, and if left unzipped during the washing and drying cycles, they'll chew up the rest of your clothing in no time! To protect the rest, make sure that all zippers are zipped to the top before tossing them in the wash.


{via}



Turn Clothes Inside Out

Some of the wear and tear that happens on your clothing can be prevented by turning your clothing inside out before washing and drying. Washing and drying clothing is rough on the outside of your clothing. Turning garments inside out will reduce pilling. This holds true when you hang clothes outside to dry as well. While the sun is an excellent and efficient drying tool, it will zap the color right out of your clothes.

Don't Stuff the Washer

Stuffing the washer is tempting because it seems like it will save us time. The truth is, it makes the machine work harder and it is tougher on clothes. Clothing can't come clean or have soap evenly deposited when it is packed into a washing machine. And don't forget that clothing takes a lot longer to dry when a dryer is stuffed with wet clothes.

Be Considerate of Your Underthings


Don't tumble-dry your bras. Bras and underwear made of fabrics and fabric blends (especially nylon) besides cotton don't do well in the heat of a dryer. Hang or drape them to air dry instead. Small mesh bags help to keep bra straps from wrapping around other clothing while in the wash. Also, make sure to fasten the hooks to prevent them from catching on delicate knits or sweaters.

Whew.... that's a long list! What are your tips for being kind to your clothes through laundry? Leave a comment!

Thanks for reading,

Happy Shopping!

Sponsor Über-Chic for Cheap


{via we heart it}

Would you like to sponsor my blog? I'm currently accepting new sponsors for July and onward. I am offering a 10% discount if you contact me before July 18.

My sponsorships are small-business friendly, with low monthly rates and opportunities to maximize your exposure.

Click the picture for details and email me at uberchicforcheap@gmail.com for more info.

XOXO,

Madeline

Friday Wishlist: Anthropologie Fine Line Skirt


You know when you see a piece of clothing and you let out an audible noise like, "oooooh" or "wow"? Well, that is what happened when I spotted this little number in the latest Anthropologie catalog.


Fine Line Skirt - Anthropologie - $148.00

How great are those subtle tiers, and the stripes, and the red sash? Oh, I love it all.

What do you guys think of this skirt? What's your fashion dream this week?

Thanks for reading,

Happy Shopping!
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