TJX Rewards Spring Fling Shopping Event

My alarm went off at 6:30 today (ugh, I know, too early for a weekend).  Usually that's not something to write about, but today getting out of bed on a Saturday morning was exciting.  This morning was the TJX Rewards Spring Fling private shopping event; it's one of the perks of having the TJX Rewards card, and I have to say, it's a good one!

It was awesome having the whole store to myself (now I know how celebrities feel!), and it was definitely worth it to wake up early!  No lines, screaming kids, or people pushing past you; it was about as zen of a shopping trip as you could get.

My goals was to find one or two pieces to add to my spring wardrobe, and I can happily say, mission accomplished!

First, I found the most perfect boat shoes!  White Sperry's; which will look uh-mazing when I get a summer tan!  (Similar pair here)

Then I found the blush-colored BCBGeneration leather jacket that I've had my eye on (for forever!), and today I finally scooped it up!  I can't wait to style it, especially with my white eyelet dress from Old Navy (see this post for dress link!).

I'm obsessed with the blush and perforated details of this jacket.  It's totally feminine, edgy, cool, girly, etc, all wrapped into one perfect (faux) leather jacket!

The pants were super fun (and look great with this jacket), but I was trying to be good, so I'll be saving them for another shopping day, lol.

Did anyone else go to the TJX Rewards event today?

Lilly Pulitzer x Target

Mark your calendars ladies, because the Lilly Pulitzer for Target collection arrives April 19!  For those of you who thought that Lilly Pulitzer was out of your reach, you'll now be able to enjoy the bright patterns and fun details of Lilly without putting a dent in your wallet--and just in time for summer too!  I love the bright, clean whites and colorful prints that remind me of a tropical paradise (makes me want to book an island getaway ASAP!).  And the gold details, man am I a sucker for gold details (especially the cute pineapple accents that show up on a couple of the pieces!).

We do still have a few weeks to actually be able to shop the collection, so until then you can check out the look book here!

These (Upstream) Challis PomPom shorts are definitely at the top of my wish list!  The color, pattern, and most importantly the pompoms, are just screaming my name.  They're just so fun and could most certainly become a strong summer staple!

Here's the rest of my Lilly x Target wish list (a girl can dream, right?):

 Crochet Crop Top// (Upstream) Weekend Bag

Gold Wedge Espadrilles // Gold Pineapple Sandals

"Forget Me Nots" // "First Timer" // "Borrowed & Blue"

A girl can never have too many Essie polishes, and these fresh shades are perfect for spring/summer manicures!

Outdoor Blanket // Porcelain Pineapple Serving Bowl // Woven Basket with Fabric Bands 

This collection is definitely getting me pumped for warmer weather, and I love that the collection isn't limited to just clothes!  The beauty and home goods section is just as amazing!

What I really love about this collection is that while I normally can't afford Lilly, this collection with Target is right in my price range!  The Challis shorts (shown above) are only $24, so I'm definitely scooping those up!  And their dresses?  Under $40!  You just can't beat it.  Lilly for Target lets you get the designer look, and still stay within your budget (isn't it a great feeling to find nice things that don't empty your wallet?).  And even better than that?  The collection also offers plus size pieces!  Even though I don't wear plus size myself, I think it's wonderful that collections such as this one, caters to women of all sizes.

I have a feeling things are going to go fast, so when April 19 rolls around, be ready to go go go!  Plus, some of the items should be available online, so get your mouse ready to go!

What do you guys think of the Lilly x Target collaboration?

Trends I Love: The Boyfriend Jean

Just recently I bought my first pair of boyfriend jeans after seeing a few of my favorite bloggers on Instagram rocking them.  I was skeptical of this style of jeans for a while simply because I didn't think they would look good on me.  But the other day I was out shopping with my sister and she wanted to go into GAP for some basics, so while I was looking around, I saw a pair hanging up (...and on sale!) and decided to give them a try.  The worst thing that could happen was that they didn't fit and I put them back on the rack, right?  I used to hate trying things on, but now that it's my own money being spent, I'd rather take the extra two minutes to try it on and make sure it actually fits and that I like it on me as much as I  did on the hanger (too many clothes being thrown away or donated because something didn't fit right when I got home).

Anyways, I went and tried them on (a little nervous that I was going to be disappointed that they were going to be a trend I couldn't rock), and lo and behold, they fit!  I'm not going to lie, but I was really excited that they actually looked nice on me (win!).

GAP 1969 Authentic Boyfriend Jeans

I love styling these jeans!  Boyfriend jeans can be dressed up or down, yet you're still super comfy (very important).  For right now I've just been styling them with booties; but I do love the way they look with a cute pair of heels!

Get this mint boatneck sweater, here! (psst, it's on sale now, $21.99!)

Slouchy sweaters and tops, tucked in at the front and hanging out in the back is definitely the way to go.  It's the perfect weekend uniform!

RtA "Ryder" Destroyed Boyfriend Jeans

Sun & Shadow Distressed Jeans

Maison Scotch "L'Adorable" Boyfriend Jeans

Old Navy Boyfriend Skinny Ankle Jeans (on sale for $34!)

Old Navy Boyfriend Straight Jean (also on sale for $34!)

J. Crew Slim Selvedge Broken-in Boyfriend Jean

J. Crew Broken-in Boyfriend Jeans

What's your favorite way to wear boyfriend jeans?

100 Years of Beauty

A little while back I stumbled across a YouTube series called "100 Years of Beauty" by Cut Video on one of the social media sites as I checked of my news feed.  The series is made up of two minute videos, each spanning the beauty and fashion of women, each decade from 1910-2010.  It's absolutely incredible to see the transformations from one decade to the next.

I'm completely hooked.  The makeup artists and stylists really do an amazing job creating each look; and the models are great with bringing to life the attitude of women from that particular era.

(Pinterest)

So far they've covered the USA, Iran, and Korea (North & South).  Even though the videos all cover the same time periods, each look is completely different and unique if you look at them side-by-side.

USA 

Iran

Korea (North & South)

They even posted a few videos explaining the process and research behind some of the looks.

2010

1910

Research

Both the USA and Korea looks, side-by-side are just incredible!  The looks take place during the same time period, in the same country, yet have two distinctive looks because of country divides.

Even if you're not a history buff, these videos are definitely a must watch!  I can't wait to see which country's looks they feature next!

Manicure Monday: Shamrocks & Studs

Saint Paddy's Day is tomorrow, and I completely forgot until someone reminded me today at work!

Here's a simple DIY manicure that's perfect for tomorrow's shamrock filled day.


What you'll need:

• green nail polish 
• white nail polish
• a thin nail brush
• gold studs
• nail glue
• base coat
• top coat
• tweezers

1.  Starting with clean (and filed/clipped/shaped) finger nails, apply your base coat.  I always do just one, even coat, to avoid chipping.

2.  Paint only your ring fingers white.

3.  Paint the rest of your nails green.

4.  Time for the shamrocks!  All it is really, is a few strokes placed together.  Easy-peasy!

5.  On the green nails, apply a dot of nail glue towards the base of your nail (right above your cuticles), and then, using tweezers, apply the nail stud.  You can use the end of your tweezer to gently press the stud into place to make sure it's firmly secured.

6.  Finish with a top coat and let dry!

Check out my other DIY manis here!

What A Stud!  -  Good As Gold  -  Star Studded  -  Tape It  -  Stellar Manicure  -  Happy Holidays  -  Sparkle and Shine  -  Pearls, on pearls, on gold

Sponsor: eShakti Review

A while back I received a product review invitation from eShakti.  In exchange for a review they sent me a piece of clothing of my choice to feature in a post.  I was super excited, because honestly, who doesn't love free clothes?  I literally went through their whole site and let me tell you, it was pretty hard to find a favorite, because their pieces are customizable!  I repeat, customizable!  Changing a hem or a neckline can really change a piece of clothing.

Have you ever seen a super cute dress, but wished it had sleeves, instead of straps; a longer or shorter hem; maybe a scoop neck instead of a v?  eShakti lets you customize your pieces so that you can change necklines, sleeve length and dress length.  Even better than that?  They cater to women from sizes 0-36W (can you say #GIRLPOWER?)!


I chose this super cute Umbrella print dress.  I can't think of anything that screams summer with such a fun print like this dress does!  I went with the sleeveless (as shown), knee-length, v-neck option.

There are seams right under the bust and then at the waist that creates a band separating the top from the skirt.  To me it's my favorite type of shape for a dress because for my body type it's the most flattering (plus, it highlights the waist and hides your stomach, lol).

The seam on the side where the zipper was made it a little hard to zip up, but with some quick help from my sister it zipped up fine.  Once it was on I instantly felt happy: the dress gave me an awesome shape, the fabric was a good quality and it was super comfortable!  I love the v-neck, because it flatters my chest nicely and doesn't give it a weird shape as some necklines do to me.  The knee-length skirt was the perfect length because I'm on the taller side (5' 7") and is work-appropriate as well (so I'll get more use out of!).  And my favorite part?  It has pockets!!

I'm already in love with this dress.  It's kind of a fit-and-flare type of dress and it just makes me feel good (seriously, look how small my waist looks!)!  :D

*dress c/o eShakti

Since it's not quite warm enough to wear anything sleeveless, I paired my umbrella dress with this GAP mint boatneck sweater.  It's warm enough for the changing weather, and casual enough for everyday.  This look is definitely one of my favorite looks of 2015 so far!  :)

I've gone through the site and rounded up all of my favorite picks (which I wouldn't mind magically appearing in my closet, lol, #wishlist) to share with you guys!  And if you use the code 'classicallycait' now through April 9th, you get 10% off!*

Scallop Trim Poplin dress: The scallop hem dresses up what would be a plain dress, gives it some character, and the color is a nice pop to any wardrobe!

Bow Belted Stretch Faux Wrap dress: In my opinion, wrap dresses look good on pretty much any figure.

Ruffle Front Leaf Print dress: I love the structure, the print, and the ruffle going down the front of the skirt.

Anna dress: Navy and ruffle, the ultimate prep combination.

Bold Stripe dress: The bold black and white stripes make this dress super versatile: dress it up, dress it down, and add a pop of color.

Laser-cut Polka Dot dress: I love laser cut designs in clothing, it gives the piece a little something extra.

Polka Dot Jacquard Colorblock dress: The color block on this dress will definitely give you the illusion of a banging hourglass silhouette.

Moto-style dress: One of my favorites.  I love the mix between edgy and girly!

Gingham Check shirtdress: This would look super cute with a pair of riding boots and a vest.

Shawl Collar Sash Waist Gingham check dress: Probably the perfect BBQ dress around.

Crepe Faux Wrap dress: Quick and easy chic in one dress!

Bold Stripe Floral tunic: Definitely a cool statement coverup, perfect for any warm weather getaway.

Mesh Insert Poplin skirt: The mesh insert is a cool feature of this skirt and could definitely transition from the office to happy hour.

Pearl Embellished Faux Leather skirt: This skirt with a cool graphic tee?  Yes please!

Scallop Hem Chambray skirt: What prepster doesn't love chambray and scallops?

Faux Wrap skirt: Simple yet interesting makes this skirt a wardrobe staple for sure.

White Eyelet full skirt: This spring/summer I'm all about crisp, white eyelet.

Embellished Pencil Skirt: Just enough embellishment to give this black pencil skirt some spunk.

Floral Sequin Pencil Skirt: Every girl loves sequins, right?  ;)

Floral Blues Print full skirt: This is not your grandma's floral.

Embellished Bib Voile tunic: This embroidered bib tunic is a summer must!

Beaded Mesh tank top: Totally Gatsby.

Laser Cut Illusion Peplum blouse: The laser cuts make this black top ten times more fashionable.

Chambray Denim Scallop Trim shirt: More chambray and scallops?  I'll take it!

Split Neck Stripe top: Aye, aye captain!  Definitely a cute, yet subtly nautical top.

Copper Embroidered Voile tunic: A sparkly, more grown-up version of the tribal trend.

Sequin Peplum blouse: Because it's five o'clock somewhere!

Peplum Faux Wrap top: Love that wrap tops are reminiscent of ballerinas (plus they give you a nice cinched waist!).

Notch Neck Contrast Trim blouse: This would look amazing paired with a cool leather moto jacket.

I can honestly say that there were only a few downsides.  One, because the pieces can be customized it does take a while from the time you order to the time your item arrives at your door (my dress took almost three weeks, so if you need something for an important event, give yourself plenty of time to order and receive you item).  And two, I pride myself on being a very budget-friendly blogger, and try not to post anything that is too expensive; that being said, some pieces are more on the expensive side.


All in all, I'd definitely say to give this site a look (and check out their social media)!

Facebook

twitter

Pinterest

Instagram

*Code has to be entered in the ‘promotional code’ box.   It is not case-sensitive.  

Code can be used any number of times until the validity period. 

It can be clubbed with any other promotional offer, gift coupon or gift card in the same order unless explicitly specified otherwise in the offer conditions.

This discount code is not applicable on clearance / sale, gift cards & overstock categories.

Not applicable on previous purchases.

Eyelet Dress

Just found the perfect spring/summer dress through one of my favorite bloggers, Carly over at The College Prepster (seriously, check out her awesome blog and her Instagram)!

Now I hardly ever buy white pieces (and by hardly ever, I mean that I have a few white tees in my drawer) because I'm always scared of spilling on and staining them (I'm a bit on the klutzy side).  But I bit the bullet and bought this Old Navy eyelet dress in white because a majority of my closet is black (although I might have to go back and order it in black too!) and this dress is just uh-may-zing in white (and just think of how awesome it's going to look with a summer tan)!!  :D

Eyelet Dress (also available in black!)

I'd definitely add a pop of color to the dress with these pretty pink suede wedges (which give you just enough height without going over the top--and potentially toppling over!).  And this perforated faux-leather tote is perfect for any warm weather outings (excuse me while I daydream about filling this tote with flowers and other farmer's market finds *sighs happily*).

And speaking of sun dresses, I also have this super cute, umbrella-print dress from eShakti (stay tuned for a review!) that I can't wait to wear once the weather gets warmer.  I fell in love with this super fun pattern that kind of reminds me of J. Crew.

So as much as I love looking at the snow and how pretty all the trees look covered in snow, I'm totally ready for warmer weather (and not having to wear eighteen layers just to leave the house).

What are your warm weather dress picks?