"I love your shirt!"

An actual conversation I had last week:

“I love your shirt!”

“Thanks, I got it in the boys’ department!”

“Ummm…”

 I was rocking my bright green and blue, double pocket flannel shirt (that I’m obsessed with). You’d be surprised the fun things you can find in the boys’ section in department stores. Don’t get me wrong, you definitely shouldn’t be buying your jeans there, but it’s a wonderful place to get flannel shirts for this fall and those blazers that are so in right now! It can also be a lot cheaper than the women’s department. You have to be careful on the sizing, but once you find something that works, it feels like you got let in on an exclusive secret. I have the below flannel shirt in a slightly different color, and I tried that blazer on in the store, but they didn’t have my size. It turns out I’m a size 14 in boys’ blazers.  –Michele

Oh the weather outside is frightful!

Let us begin this blog by apologizing for not posting anything for nearly two weeks! Unfortunately, blogging doesn’t pay the bills and our jobs are currently obnoxiously busy. We apologize. Don’t leave us!

Winter is quickly approaching, and since the weather man has informed us that snow might be coming this weekend, we thought it would be appropriate to talk about winter wear! Below is a mixture of coats we thing every girl should own in her closet

oldnavy.com: On sale for $65.00

Let’s start with the fun one, winter is so dreary, and being able to add a splash of color to any outfit can not only lift your cold hibernating mood, but you will definitely stand out! I (Lauren) have a deep purple colored pea coat, and LOVE it because it brings a completely different look to an outfit. Don’t want to purchase another coat? Scarves and hats in bright colors can have the same brightening effect on any winter outfit.

Columbia Bugaboo Tech Parka $300.00

The outdoor winter jacket is a must. Between running errands and extreme sports ( I don’t snowboard, no one needs to see that), staying warm is a must. Columbia always has great quality coats. I love this one because it’s a 3-in-1. You can wear the inner lining on warmer days, wear them together when it’s really cold and just the outer layer when you want a hood. If you don’t want to make such a huge investment in a coat, department stores like JCPenney have Columbia brand products that go on sale right after Christmas, and you can get a great bargain!

loft.com: Faille Bubble Hem Anorak,  40% off $75

This jacket is on the lighter side, but it’s something every girl should have, whether in khaki, green, black, or navy, having a light jacket for those in-between days is great. This style can easily be dressed up (see picture) or worn with jeans or yoga pants on days you’re running errands or watching a sporting event.

gap.com: Perfect Tailored Pea Coat $168.00

This style coat is a must have. Not only is a black coat timeless, but it can be worn with virtually anything. The military inspired looks are really in right now (just look at Kate Middleton!), and you can invest in a good black pea coat, and it can easily last you a decade.

gap.com: Moto Puffer Jacket $98.00

Move over puffer vest! We're on to puffer  jackets! We love this Puffer Jacket from Gap. It's a fashion upgrade from the vest, but still super comfy and casual. It comes in black and pink, so you can mix it up with some color or stay conservative with the black.

Office Confidential

You always see the “10 must haves” for your wardrobe in every fashion magazine, and honestly, I probably don’t have half of them. I have to say, every woman DOES need at least one great pair of black pants, a black blazer and a great pair of black boots or heels. These are the essentials because they can be worn with everything. Black pants are the essential piece of clothing that are great for work, church, and can even be used as causal wear when mixed with an appropriate t-shirt. A blazer can be added to work apparel, but can also be worn with jeans, and a good pair of black shoes can make any outfit just a little funkier.

Combining these three items for a great work or church ensemble is easy because they are so versatile. I chose three different colored ruffle tops and belts to show some versatility. Excessive accessorizing isn’t necessary because the ruffled shirt and belt add plenty of color.

 What’s your go to office piece?

-Lauren

One Word...Obsessed



http://www.loft.com/
Modern Slim Leg Corduroy Pants
$59.50
Pink Rouge



Breast Cancer Awareness Month

Cancer sucks. There’s really no other way around it. But we can all do our part to find a cure! October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and there are so many ways to help spread awareness. Most magazines’ October issues have spreads of what you can buy to help donate to this important cause. I did my own research and here’s “Not Fashion Expert’s” own BCA spread!

1. I love how the NFL represents BCA during the month of October. From pink gloves to mouth pieces, the field is covered in PINK. They have some awesome BCA gear on www.nfl.com . Larry Fitzgerald, wide receiver for the Cardinals, has promised to commit $1,000.00 for every catch he makes and $10,000.00 for every touch down to BCA! Amazing!

2. I ordered this fabulous fleece in gray! I am super excited for it to arrive! Depending on the price of the item, a certain percentage goes to help fund mammograms for women who cannot afford them. They run various promos all the time, so mine will come with a free REALLY cute bracelet.

www.thebreastcancersite.com   $16.00 Pink Ribbon Quarter Zip Fleece Jacket

3. I love these rain boots! With the way it has been raining around here, I could use some of these suckers!

www.thebreastcancersite.com $36.00 Pink Ribbons and Hearts Rain Boots

4. Pretty nails and BCA!? It's a no brainer. 

www.amazon.com    $6.15 OPI Limited Edition Pink of Hearts

5. Giant has these adorable reusable bags for BCA! Doesn't hurt to carry your groceries home in style!

www.giantfood.com 

6. Save your tatas while working out!! Keep those suckers in place.
www.thebreastcancersite.com $16.00 Breast Cancer Site Sports Bra

-Michele 

Lauren Conrad

Lately, it seems like every celebrity has become a designer or has lent their name to a fashion line. While in most cases it’s pretty obvious the celebrity only slapped their name on a label, every once in a while, a celebrity clothing line will come along that is not only fashionable, affordable, and reflects the celebrity's creativity.  One of my favorite celebrity lines is the LC Collection by Lauren Conrad available at Kohls.  When I think of her line, the words soft and light always come to mind. Her line is mostly made up of light colors, gentle fabrics, soft tees and frilly summer dresses. Her line truly looks like something she would wear and own in her closet, and she models a lot of the pieces too.

Here are some of my favorite pieces from her fall line…

1. This dress is currently on sale for $51.00! It is a great fall piece because its work appropriate, great for after-work drinks, or attend a wedding.

2. I love long cardigan sweaters. They are great to have in your wardrobe because they’re so versatile and forgiving. They cover up problem areas and can be worn with almost anything. This sweater is on sale for $45.00

3. This tank top is supposed to be a pajama top, but I think the floral detailing is too cute to be kept inside! Worn under a cardigan like the one above, its detailing can easily replace a necklace. On sale for $20.40

4. This, by far is my favorite piece of the entire collection. I think the butterflies are so cute, and even if it gives it a more fun and flirty feel, but I would still definitely wear it to work. It’s also on sale for $36.00!

5.  The best, and most affordable way to dress up an outfit is with accessories, and the LC collection has plenty to go around! These pieces range from $8.40-$16.80

6. These pencil jeans are a great fall staple because colored denim is really in right now and they’re a versatile color that can go with almost anything. They’re on sale for $42.00

7. This sweater is why the term soft comes to mind when I think of this collection. It’s a great layering piece. 0n sale for $35.00

8. I think I like these shoes so much because I can’t wear platforms, but I love the idea of rocking skinny jeans with these great platforms. For those of you that can rock a platform (Michele), these would go great with the colored denim. On sale for $42.00.

            

-Lauren

We're excited about...

I started this ridiculous diet called Ideal Protein two weeks ago. While I was never considered “overweight,” I felt like I needed to do something to give my metabolism a jump start. Like a lot of women do, I gained 20lbs since my wedding a little over two years ago and saw my health and eating habits spiraling downwards. So, my awesome sister (who lost 24 lbs and looks ridiculously fabulous!!!) encouraged me to check it out.

The concept behind the diet is that we are constantly putting sugar into our bodies, and our pancreas simply cannot keep up. Ideally, it should be turning that sugar into energy, but because there is an overabundance of sugar it cannot. Therefore, the sugar is stored as fat (hence muffin tops and belly rolls).  Stick with me here. J

So, the diet essentially drains your body of sugar and fortifies your muscles so that the body can access the fat “tank” of the pancreas. With access to the fat “tank,” our body can burn off that fat a whole lot easier. Pretty cool huh?

You might be thinking, “What can I eat on this diet?” Well, in the first phase of the diet, Ideal Protein provides you with breakfast, lunch, and snack. It is your responsibility to eat 4 cups vegetables a day and provide the protein for you dinner. Is it fun? No. But it is totally worth it. In two weeks, I have lost 9 lbs!! WooHOO! My body is adjusting to the change slowly, and I’m starting to feel better each day. Who knew your body doesn’t need those sugars to run?

Ideal Protein must be run out of a certified clinic with Registered Nurses. Each person has a nurse assigned to him/her. My nurse calls me to check up on me periodically, and I am free to call her at anytime with questions.

The reason I’m including this on our fashion blog, is that I feel like in order to feel beautiful in the fabulous clothes we put ourselves in, we need to treat our body’s right!  I’m super excited as I begin to fit more comfortably into my clothes and feel more confident in them.

I’ll keep you updated on my progress! - Michele

Fall Weekend Wear

Fall is here, and I have mixed emotions. I am a summer baby through and through. I was born in June, and I’m never happier than when I’m frolicking around in shorts and a tank top or even my swimsuit.  My husband thinks I’m kidding when I say that I want to move to Georgia for year round warmer weather. I’m really not kidding.

But on the other hand, I LOVE fall fashion. I love boots, jackets and scarves. Thankfully, living in DC allows me to wear a lot of my summer clothes mixed with some fun fall pieces well into October. Here’s an example of an outfit I’ll be wearing this weekend.

What do you like to wear in the fall months? <3 Michele
 

1.       Lush Chiffon Kimono Sleeve Dress in Navy Dot

www.Shop.nordstom.com $46.00

2.       Indigo by Clarks: Leslie Sharon Knee-high Boot

www.amazon.com  $200.00

3.        Global Girlfriend: Green Ripple Effect Scarf

www.target.com  $19.99

4.       Forever 21: Embellished Leatherette Belt

www.forever21.com  $5.80

5.       Forever 21: Green/Gold Sparking Bead Ring

www.forever21.com $3.80

6.       Forever 21: Effortless Glamour Bangle Set

www.forever21.com  5.80

The Age Old Question: Splurge or Save?

I have an obsession with hand bags. I will be the first to admit that spending hundreds of dollars on a handbag is a little ridiculous, but I will also be the first to buy one if I just know I can’t live without it. A purse can make or break an outfit, which is why it’s so important to make sure it complements your outfit, but at the same time doesn’t cost more than all your outfits for that week. I have accumulated a variety of bags for different occasions, and I tried to find a splurge and save version to accommodate all budgets. Which ones are your favorites? -Lauren

Running Around 

I love this style of handbag because it’s small, doesn’t take up a lot of space and is easy to carry because you can sling it across your chest or carry it, depending on your mood and outfit.

MICHAEL Michael Kors     

Charlton Crossbody $138.00

ALDO Grisso $35.00

          

Work Week Carry- all

Every girl needs a bag they can throw all their stuff in and get up and go. I especially love this style for the work week because you can fit your lunch in there as well as a magazine and anything you may need for work. The camel color is WONDERFUL because it literally can go with any color combination. Buying a bag this size and in this color is smart because you can get away with the splurge because you can use it for a variety of outfits and occasions.

Zara Large Fashion Bag $169.00

Old Navy Faux-Leather Saddle Tote
$26.00

Pop of Color

I am obsessed with both of these handbags. Red is such a great color, and especially with the weather getting colder and more depressing, it is so important to have something that will make you stand out and add energy to your outfit. This is a great bag for work, but can definitely brighten any casual weekend outfit.

Coach Chelsea Patent
 Leather Large Shopper
$428.00

Zara Suede Combined Shopper
$89.90

               

Eco-friendly grocery shopping

Now a days it’s so in to be “green” and environmentally friendly, which is why these bags are great for grocery shopping or even the beach and gym. They don’t have the silly grocery store logos which makes them much more versatile, and in my case makes me much more willing to carry it around.

Marc by Marc Jacobs Le Mouse
 Standard Supply Tote
$148.00

Vera Bradley Shopper $8.00         

Going out!


There is nothing more frustrating than going out for dinner or drinks and dancing and having to haul a bag around that not only gets in the way but doesn’t let you get down on the dance floor. Wristlets are a good investment because they can function as a wallet in your bigger purses during the week as well. I chose a blue color because of the versatility of the color and it’s a good change from the traditional black.

Dooney & Bourke Portofino
Slim Wrislet
$88.00

Kenneth Cole Reaction Zip Around
Large Expanded Wristlet
$19.95

Emmy's Best and Worst

Here's who we thought were the best and worst dressed at the Emmy's. There were so many beautiful dresses we had a hard time narrowing it down to three.

Best Dressed: Kate Winslet

We ADORE Ms. Winslet in this dress. She looks absolutely stunning. Red seemed to be the color of the night, but we think she looked the best. It’s simple and elegant, but hugs her beautiful figure perfectly. Love love love.

Best Dressed: Minka Kelly
 

This might seem as an odd choice to some, but we absolutely love lace. Minka went for modesty and elegance as opposed to flashy and risqué. We love the navy and black combo, and this is a timeless piece that works great with her tall, slender figure. Kudos for not overdoing it on the make up or lipstick and letting the dress stand out. This reminds us of Kate Middleton. We assure you there will be an entire series of posts dedicated to her.

Best Dressed: Sofia Vergara

Um, holy cow. First of all, we’re pretty sure she could be wearing a potato sack, and she would still be gorgeous. This dress is SO flattering. The color is perfect and creates a glamorous silhouette. PS. Can we please have her curves?! Thanks.

Worst Dressed: Zooey Deschanel

We LOVE Zooey. She is hilarious and adorable, so we get where she was probably going with this dress. But, it didn’t work. Not a fan of the red on pink. I realize that mix-matching of bright warm hues is “in” but this just reminds us of the old rule that you’re not supposed to mix pink and red. The dress itself looks a bit like an old school prom dress. Just not feeling it. On a semi-related note, can’t wait to watch her new show!

 

Worst Dressed: Amy Poehler

She is so hysterical and fabulous. This dress is not at all flattering, is a weird cut, and an ugly color. Amy could have done so much better!

Worst Dressed: Gwyneth Paltrow
 

We are speechless…and that almost NEVER happens! We’re not sure where to being with this disaster of a “dress.” Let’s start with the obvious;  No woman should ever wear a belly shirt unless they’re using it as a swim suit cover up or are Britney Spears circa “Hit me Baby One more Time.”  The sheer design doesn’t leave much for the imagination, and in her attempt to look sexy, she looks tacky and desperate. Gwyneth has a great figure and is undeniably gorgeous, so it’s a shame she decided to channel “I Dream of Genie.”

Who were your favs?

That Ain't Right!

After perusing through the Missoni’s line for Target, it is safe to say that a designer label does not guarantee fabulous clothes. There is nothing but dizzying patterns and prints, and it would be safe to assume that the line was going to be a disappointment in terms of sales. That couldn’t be further from the truth. Not only were there lines outside of the stores the day the line was to launch, the website crashed multiple times because of high volume! I don’t get it; it looks like the 70’s with a bad hangover. I will be the first to admit that I am drawn to a big label, but I refuse to give in to this ridiculousness. I just hope I don’t see anyone at work wearing a zigzag sweater because I’ll be tempted to spill my coffee on them. - Lauren

I tried to give it a chance. I looked through the pieces and tried to find something I would potentially consider wearing. I found nothing. Wait, that’s not true. I would wear the underwear because no one would be able to see it. I tend to like the designer labels at Target. It’s fun to buy designer clothes at a discounted price, but this one is horrendous. Maybe I’m just not able to appreciate its “beauty” because I’m too busy trying not to vomit.  But seriously, we hate it. -Michele       

What do you think about this madness?

Smart Shopping

"How do you always find such great deals?!" my friend asked me the other day. I answered, "I have to find great deals because I'm cheap and my husband's cheap."

Don't get me wrong,  It's ok to splurge on the basic essentials in your wardrobe. But I'm a sucker for inexpensive fabulous clothes. Here's my secret: at the change of each season I make an excel spreadsheet (yup, I said it) of my "must have" items. Then I do my research. Where can I find the best quality stuff for the lowest prices? Patience is a virtue, my friends. 

So, here is an example of one of my favorite outfits for fall. Everything at bargain prices.

1. Ann Taylor’s Loft: Slub Cotton Dolman Sleeve Shirt

www.loft.com $15

I love this shirt. It’s soo comfy, and I can dress it up or down.

2. Old Navy: The Sweetheart Skinny Jeans

www.oldnavy.com $29.50

I have 2 pairs of these. Gray and Blue. They’re fabulous.

3. Steve Maddens: Trouser Flat

www.amazon.com  $55-.96-65.95 (depending on color)

Tip: Go to Nordstrom Rack- I found my Oxfords on sale for $30, and I am obsessed!

4. Forever 21: Serpentine Layered Necklace

www.forever21.com $7.80

I love how feminine and delicate this necklace is. It’s a nice contrast to the masculine blazer and oxfords.

5. Forever 21: Romania Beaded Bracelet

www.forever21.com $8.80

Who doesn’t love a fun bracelet!?

6. Zara: Metallic Jogging Blazer

www.zara.com $89.99

So, I realize this isn’t exactly at bargain price, but like I said it’s ok to splurge on a classic, basic piece for your wardrobe. I saw this sucker in the store, and I have been obsessed ever since. I’m waiting for next month and a refreshed shopping budget. J

Where’s your favorite place to bargain hunt?

-Michele

On the Hunt

I am on the hunt for the perfect black boot. This should be easy considering there are endless options out there, but unfortunately my budget is not endless, and I need something practical I can wear to work and play (I’m so practical I can’t stand it). I also have a really hard time with heels so out the window goes the hooker boot option.

Rules for Shoe Buying:

1.      NEVER sacrifice comfort regardless of how cute they are. If they hurt, you’re never going to wear them, and if you do you’re probably going to sprain an ankle (Like I did this afternoon in the Giant parking lot).

2.      Quality is super important. They will cost more if you buy real leather, and you will save more in the long run if you buy quality shoes. Your feet won’t smell after long hours, and at the end of the day, you can tell if someone is wearing nice shoes J

I have narrowed my search down to four contenders. I stuck with brands that make comfortable shoes and have a reputation for quality. Which ones would you choose?  -Lauren

(All available on www.zappos.com )

                                                                    1. Born Bitsy $210

                                                       2. Indigo by Clarks Leslie Sharon $200

                                                 3. Clarks Wish Excite $150

                                                 4. Born Mallory $210 *Michele’s Pick