WANNABE BIRKENSTOCKS - $$$?

As I was crying into my coffee while window shopping on Net-A-Porter, I noticed this pair of $795 Givenchy floral sandal/Birkenstock...knock-offs? Wow, that is pretty pricey considering they're nearly a copy of the original style that costs a fraction of the price.

In case you are staring at your screen in confusion wondering why we're talking about your mother's favorite birth control sandal or why you'd want to wear Kim Kardashian's sofa on your feet. Well, these Birkenstock style sandals are it this season. Who would've guessed? You either love them or you hate them, there is not too much of an in between. They are, however, the most comfortable shoes your feet will ever be graced with. If you're a fan, I suggest going to get the real thing. Comfy and will last you forever.

A lot of brands, such as Zara, and are replicating the Birk style for around $25-$99. That is great if you're hopping on the trend for just this season, but should you really drop almost a grand for a copy? The original Birkenstocks run you $70-$120 depending on the style and finish of the sandal (there are so many, you'll never be able to choose!) Yep, that is about SIX times less than the Givenchy copy. Birkenstock has even gone as far as posting a counterfeit reference guide (view here) front and center on their website. You go, Birkenstock. Ain't nobody stealing your thunder!


What do you all think? Would you drop that kind of money on a copy of a cheaper shoe? If so, I'd love to hear why!

IFB: LINKS A LA MODE

Classic Frock

In the era of outrageous fashion, peacocking, street style bait, whatever, could it be people are revolting? Sliding back into the classics? Oscar night, the men took more chances than the ladies, and fashion month is buttoning up more than rocking out. It's quite the story that's trending though fashion these days, and the links this week? We're taking a look at Iconic style so you can stay in the know about the latest (non) trends. If worse comes to worse, at least you'll have classic pieces that can last a life time.

Links à la Mode: The IFB Weekly Roundup

• 50 States of Dating: The Following: Love Lessons from a Sociopath
• Adorned in Armor: Top 12 Black Fashion Icons
• Alysalovely: Why to Watch Veronica Mars
• Attire Club: Oscars 2014: Our Favorite Mens Looks
• Burgundy Whispers: Strong is The New Skinny
• DressCode:HighFashion: Top 10 Sandals for SS14
• Est Noir: LFW14: KTZ
• Fake Blonde: Should I Empty My Savings Account for That?
• Frugal Shopaholics: Beauty on a Budget
• Jolly Caucus Race: Saint Laurent's Ever Youthful Bardot
• Madame Ostrich: Fell on Black Days: Lanvin AW14
• Oh to Be a Muse: Disney Princesses as Fashion Bloggers
• Petite Fille Modele: Lady Gaga's Tonight Show Makeup Tutorial
• Soar Thumb: What Does Your Purse Say About You?
• Style and Delight: 8 Sunglasses That Made History
• Style Bizarre: Boho Chic: Fad or Way of Life?
• Style Curated: Shoes + Shrieks + Sarah Jessica Parker
• Style Vanity: How to Get Jared Leto Hair
• The B Team: 5 Days, 5 Ways
• We Are Ready Made: The Japanese Takeover

Brought to you by: 20% Off Shopbop Rosie Pope, Imogene + Willie, TheBlondeSalad, Whistles, Italia Ind., Karen London, Ela Rae, Apiece apart, Converse Premium, Herschel

Want to be featured in Links à la Mode?

1. Read the clarified rules and submit your links on this page: Links à la Mode. 2. If your link was selected and you need this week’s code, visit this page: Links à la Mode Code.

-

This week I one of my posts was chosen for this week's IFB Links a la Mode! I couldn't be more thrilled. Be sure to check out the other great posts by my fellow bloggers!

PROENZA SCHOULER, MEET SOHO.

 Can we talk about the new Proenza Schouler boutique located in SoHo New York City designed by David Adjaye? Adjaye turned this two level 2,500 sq. ft. space into a minimalist's wonderland complete with breathtaking marble puzzles on the wall and laser-cut steel screens. It's a dream. Check it out!

SHOULD YOU EMPTY YOUR SAVINGS ACCOUNT FOR THAT?

 We all have an item we would kill for. Most of the time, these items cost way more than we can justify spending. That doesn't make us stop wanting it. In fact, we want it even more. We need it. This leads to the big question..."Should I really empty my savings account for that?"

1969-2010

Four years ago today we tragically lost a true inspiration and genius who undoubtedly changed fashion.

R.I.P. Lee Alexander McQueen

You will be forever missed.

GIANVITO

Gianvito Rossi Suede Cutout Sandals

These shoes will never come off my wish list just like they'll never be available in my size.

LPD NEW YORK

I was finally able to get my hands on an LPD New York jersey style tee! Sizes quickly come and go, so it was difficult to finally catch one. I had originally been on the hunt for the Wang tee, but when I came across the McQueen tee on the Revolve Clothing website, there was no competition. I had to have it. I sized up on the men's tee for a relaxed look. I'd pair it with a pair of leather joggers, or fold up the bottom hem to make a crop and pair with a midi skirt.


Shop LPD New York on Revolve Clothing or Net-A-Porter.

2013 RECAP

 

 

Oh,

 

Photos: Marie Claire, LA Times, Styleite, HelloMagazine

STYLE CRUSH | AUDREY NAPOLEON

Who else can do black like this?

NET-A-PORTER DREAMING

It's time for the Net-A-Porter sale. It sent me straight to Fendi heaven.

Shop up to 70% off or sit down with a cup of coffee, scroll, and have a good cry with me.

3K

Check out this pair of $3,200 solid 18k gold Ray-Ban aviators. A (rich) sunglasses whore fantasy.

What do you think? Splurge worthy?

They can be purchased here.

MUST READS

 

Learnin' from the best.

It by Alexa Chung— This is such a fun and light read, so its impossible to put down! The perfect book to read over morning coffee.

If You Have To Cry, Go Outside: And Other Things Your Mother Never Told You by Kelly Cutrone— A must-have for everyone. Queen Bitch Kelly Cutrone tells you like it is and gives you the most crucial career advice your mother never told you.

Man Repeller by Leandra Medine— Still getting through this one. Leandra's fun and hilarious personality captures you in right away, so of course it is a great book. It's a given. Parts will leave you in a state of panic, all I need to say about that is brand new white suede Manolo Blahnik pumps + dog poop...

HOLIDAY EDIT 01

01 / 02 / 03 / 04 / 05

For the jewelry lover.

Snow(ish) Day + Weekend Roundup

 

 *this post is photo heavy, and may contain quick snap photos taken with a trusty iPhone. 
 — Today felt like the first day of actual winter, like, it was ACTUALLY cold. We also got half an inch of snow (yes.) but we will take what we can get. Sometimes here in Texas, it doesn't even snow half an inch in two years! It's not much, but the mountains looks amazing. I wish I could have caught a photo yesterday. The first photo is meant to trick you. I don't think we got enough snow to build a snowman...

— I've been having trouble with my blog email account, most frustrating thing in the world. This weekend has been so stressful because of it. Hopefully it is up and running and I can get back to work this week. It better.

— The Starbucks holiday drinks are officially out and I don't think I've ever been so excited about it than I have been this year. The caramel brulee latte is my favorite. I can't ever get my hands on an eggnog latte because they are always out of eggnog (?????????) You would think there is a worldwide shortage. I plan on making my own, more on that soon!

— Sprouts is my new favorite store.

 

— I posted a Kurt Geiger bag here on my wishlist posts, and when I went back to purchase it was no longer on sale. Ugh! I accepted that I lost out and was going to wait for it to possible go back on sale. Well, on my routine 1 a.m. Poshmark scrolls, I came across a bag identical to it. The Kurt Geiger back is flat, almost clutch-like. The bargain bag is a big wider on the bottom like an actual handbag. Much more practical for my lifestyle. However, it is suede. It worries me a bit, but I am looking into some suede protector spray. Not like it is essential in a dry place like here, but whatever.

— This week and weekend, I found myself on the Bloglovin' Popular Home Decor blog post section. My interest and obsession with interior decor has me wasting my day here. It's not wasted if I love it though, right? Endless inspiration.

— I'm about to do a small desk makeover. Since I have such a small space in my room to do some work, I need to make it glam. I'm expecting one more piece and need to do some painting, and I will have the transformation up.

This week I have so many posts coming up, I need to catch up. A lot of decor and beauty coming your way!

Boo

Fendi Monster Eyes Peekaboo Bag/Fendi Bag Bugs (and here)

I don't think I've ever wanted something so bad.

November Wishlist

01. Mansur Gavriel Small Leather Tote + Medium Wallet 

02. Kurt Geiger Octane Fold Over Bag 

03. Dorothy Perkins DP Collection Faux Fur Coat 

04. Hourglass Cosmetics Ambient Lighting Powder in Diffused Light

Mini Bag Madness

Phillip Lim for Target  / Zara Mini Office City / B. Makowsky Adele / Phillip Lim for Target / Rebecca Minkoff Fur Wallet On Chain

Mini bags are still here and going stronger than ever. I've started growing my collection, and I enjoy these mini bags much more than my previous favorite, the large tote. They're slightly cheaper than large bags, so you can add many to your wardrobe. Who doesn't love options?! They're also easier to take along with you, whether you're going shopping and need all the hands you can get, or grabbing coffee with friends.

Love At First Sight

Balmain Homme Croc Blazer

*sigh*

What's In My Bag + Makeup Bag

What's In My Bag + Makeup Bag videos are my favorite things to watch, and I avidly stalk the #whatsinmybag tag on instagram. I thought it would be fun to finally share mine!

—Michael Kors Purse - I cannot find the style name for this bag! I purchased at the Michael Kors outlet for a crazy discount, and the style name on the tag doesn't match the bag. I do know it's a MK grab bag. I got this about 3 weeks ago and I love it! It's super soft and slouchy, the leather is completely unlined and is so easy to carry. The rose gold hardware on the straps gives it just enough character to the rather simple bag, and gives it a tiny Alexander Wang feel.

—Sephora VIB Rouge Makeup Pouch - I got this adorable bag as a gift when I went Rouge on Sephora's VIB program!

— Piccadilly Notebook - For all of my note taking and blog ideas on the go.

— Marc Jacobs Wallet - An amazing Poshmark find! Brand new with tags for only $15!!

— Kenra Volume Hair Spray - Everyone needs some extra backup.

— Extra Gum 

— Ink Pen

—Mini Hairbrush - A must have!

— Car Keys

—MK Charm - Came with my bag...I prefer the bag without it!

Now for the makeup...

During the day I usually don't touch up my makeup, but it's always good to have stuff just in case!

1. Sephora VIB Rouge Makeup Pouch - Here is my pretty little bag, again!

2. Walgreens Oil Absorbing Sheets - Half the price and just as good as the Neutrogena sheets.

3. Make Up For Ever Mat Velvet + - This matte foundation is a must. If I'm touching up my makeup during the day, it's probably because I'm oily and/or my makeup is falling off my face.

4. Dior Addict Lipstick in 178 Urban

5. BareMinerals "Buff & Go" Brush - Stole from my mom's purse. Sorry mom!

6. MAC Tinted Lip Conditioner in Petting Pink

7. Tom Ford Black Orchid Body Oil - Purchased from eBay, lasts 10x longer than the perfume!

8. Lady Gaga Fame Perfume Rollerball - Never too many scents.

9. Rimmel Show Off Lipgloss in 701 Stargazer - Gorgeous color.

10. Tarte Smooth Operator Concealer - For extra coverage!

11. Soap & Glory Hand Food

12. Chanel Rouge Allure in 114 Precieuse

13. MAC Lipstick in Creme d' Nude - Favorite nude lipsick!

14. Extra Rubberbands & Bobbypins - Every girl needs these in her bag.

What are the must haves in your bag? 

September Favorites

1. 3.1 Phillip Lim for Target Mini Satchel in Taupe - I'm sure you've seen this little bag on everyone's blog. Well, there is a good reason for it. This tiny (but very spacious, believe it or not!) Pashli-like bag is great for day and night, throw it on cross body or just on your shoulder. I wasn't able to grab the black one which I had originally wanted, but I'm glad I got the taupe because I got black in all the other 3.1 Phillip Lim x Target collaboration!

2. Black Orchid by Tom Ford - I am the worst person at describing scents, so I will not even get into it! However, if you are a fan of dark woodsy perfumes, this one is for you. It is the perfect fall/winter perfume and for some it may be too strong to wear during the day. This is my first Tom Ford scent and definitely not my last.

3. H&M Jacket with Faux Leather Detailing - I ordered this blazer on a whim while placing an order on H&M, and I am so glad I did. The jacket is SO slimming and makes you look 20 pounds thinner, and i'm not exaggerating. The faux leather arms and shoulder detailing giving a subtle edge perfect for fall.

4. Just Fab "Monroe" Pump - D'orsay pointed toe pumps are everywhere this year, and there is no sign of them going anywhere. I had debated for a good week on getting these shoes, and when I saw heels.com's "Heels At Home" program, I decided to throw them in the cart and try them on for myself before committing. These are one of the most comfortable pair of pumps I own and can walk around for hours in them. You already know I'm going back for the black pair!

5. Madden Girl "Lopezzz" Bootie - These were a shoe sent from the heavens. I had been eyeing the Steve Madden Panelope booties for a while, and when I placed my Heels At Home order I picked them up as well to try. Well, that was before I read the reviews and everyone mentioned they ran too small and we're horrible tight on the ankle. They were right. The Lopezzz bootie is exactly the same as the Paneolpe bootie, only in regular leather instead of suede. I sized up in these booties as well so I can wear them in the winter with socks, and they are perfect.

6. Audrey Brooke "Hylda" Pump - I grabbed these gorgeous d'orsay pumps for a wedding I attended this month, and they are already up at the top with my all time favorites. The heel isn't so high you can barely stand, and the ankle strap helps so much. They can be worn casually with boyfriend jeans or formally with a party dress. 

*As I'm writing this post, I realized the shoes in the collage are NOT the Audrey Brooke shoe, silly mistake by me! The actual shoes are in the collection on the right side of the page. :)

7. Bath & Body Works "Leaves" Candle - This candle is the true scent of Fall. If you haven't smelled it yet, you need to get to your local Bath & Body Works and smell it now. You won't regret it. Every so often B&BW has their 3-wick candles at 2 for $20 (which is a steal considering one candle alone is $22!) so you can grab your other favorite scent, too.