YOLO more like YUCKO

You Only Live Once

I have no problem with the sentiment, but when it became a Kardashian war cry that was the end for me. It's on everything these days. Hashtags, tshirts, trucker hats, bumper stickers, billboards. It seems to pop up one in every three Facebook statuses, tweets and Instagram pics.

And to make matters worse, most of the time the people who use it seem to be confused. "I had Mexican tonight. #YOLO" Seriously?? I'm immediately saddened by your life. This is not living life to it's fullest.

Unless you are knocking something off your bucket list, save the YOLO moniker for another day. I think the guys from Lonely Island have a handle on all this YOLO nonsense best, so I am just going to let them take the rest of this post over from here with their newest gem "YOLO."

Let's Hear It For The Boys! Valentine's Day Edition

So what about your hunny? I am sure you have dropped hints about what you love, but he deserves something just as awesome, don't you think?

Here are some of my favorite ideas.

Let's Hear it for the Boys... Valentine's Edition by preppy-lizzy featuring tech accessories

From Williams-Sonoma: For the foodie love, or pizza lover, this Emilie Henry pizza stone is great. We got one for our wedding and its a great gift if your guy loves pizza or you like to cook together.

From Jack Spade: I love this bright orange laptop case and briefcase. My hubby loves orange and its nylon so it's a great tough wear piece.

From C.Wonder: This bullhorn speaker is so cool. They make them for both your iPad and iPhone and come in a few colors. They don't need any power and the sound is great. They are also really easy to pack!

From Buckle: My hubby loves a great pearl snap shirt. He has one or two but would adore another one. He would look great in this one with his blue eyes and dark blond hair.

From Nintendo, Microsoft or Sony: Any sort of video game. We just got the WiiU but we also have a PS3 and XBox, so a video game is always a  great choice for the gamer hubby.

From Nike: The Nike Fuelband is a great choice for the active guy that is also competitive. You can compete against your friends and it now comes in 3 styles. The charge also lasts for a while and tracks steps, calories, time and Nike fuel. It's fun and a good reminder to get moving.

From Ticketmaster or Stubhub: Tickets to his favorite sport or concert are awesome. My husband loves activities more than physical stuff. Groupons to try stuff out also fit great in here. Pick out a hot air balloon ride or try sky diving. Get him something off his bucket list.

From Amazon: Dan always says one of the best gifts I ever got him was his Kindle, the other one was the pair of beer bottle cufflinks I made him. So if you are not the DIY type and he likes to read or wants to get back into it and is not afraid of techie stuff, this is a great gift.

From Apple: A new Apple gadget is always a great gift, or really any new techie gadget from his favorite brand for that matter.

What are you getting your boy?

What I'm Dreaming of This Valentine's Day

Valentine's Day is coming up and for Dan and I, two days earlier, it is also the anniversary of the day we started dating. Even though we now have a new anniversary to celebrate (a wedding anniversary) we still want to celebrate February 12th along with February 14th, we just tend to combine them into one celebration and gift now.

So what am I dreaming about this season of love?

Love Love Loving... Valentine's Day by preppy-lizzy featuring a coach shoulder bag

1. Margaret Elizabeth Pink Amethyst Bangle ($88)
I adore this bangle. It would go so great with my other bracelets and the hot pink is not only such a perfect Valentine's Day color but my favorite. I would love love love to add this piece to my stack. Also at $88 it doesn't break the bank and may even leave some budget for flowers, chocolate, cupcakes or Laduree macaroons...

2. Bouquet of Pink Peonies
Peonies are my most favorite flower in the world and my husband knows it. The only major disappointment of our wedding was that they were not in season in September and therefore could not be found. He has found a way to get me them ever year so far, so fingers crossed for this year!

3. Coach Legacy Leather Courtenay Hobo in Silver/Chambray ($298)
I am a handbag and shoes kind of gal. I love the lavender color of this coach bag. I also like that it  is not too big and not too small. The legacy collection is amazeballs. I have one of the minis in emerald and I am obsessed with it. While this is a more expensive/dream type gift, I could not help including it.

4. Margaret Elizabeth Amethyst Slice One of A Kind ($158)
I love the colors of this necklace. While not traditionally Valentine's day, I love that each of these pieces are one of a kind, just like each woman that wears one - boys I practically just wrote your card for you! And again this is another piece that would not break the budget.

5. Kate Spade New York Karolina Bow in Seafoam Patent ($328)
I'm a shoe girl through and through and I love the mint and bows on these. If you want to go the pink route, these also come in a blush color. If your girl is a shoe girl and these are in the budget (not realistic for most of us) these are perfect for you to sport on your date right then and there.

6. Laduree Macroons
 I love love love Laduree Macaroons and since they come in so many flavors and colors you can get them to suit any mood and holiday. Your guy can pick ones that perfectly match your relationship and what you love. And because there are so many choices, they are a little more thoughtful than the basic box of chocolates (and if you are like me and hate milk chocolate, you would appreciate these way more).

What's on my Kindle? - January 2013

What's On My Kindle? - January 2013

What's On My Kindle? by preppy-lizzy on Polyvore

The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry by Rachel Joyce
This book was such a fantastic read. What starts out as a short walk to a mailbox becomes a journey of epic proportions that looks at the power of human kindness and the pay it forward effect of the simplest of gestures. It also reminds us that everyone of us carries our own emotional baggage and story and sometimes the greatest gift another person can give each other is just to listen and take some of the weight off. The book is a pretty quick read and you quickly become very invested in its lead character Harold and the relationships with those around him.

The Patchwork Girl of Oz by L. Frank Baum
Continuing on my quest to read the complete works of Oz, this past month I covered The Patchwork Girl of Oz. This is the first book that does not feature Dorothy as the main heroine, but instead starts to look at the other inhabitants of Oz. Dorothy does make an appearance in the last 10 chapters of the book, but it as an assistant to the heroine of this tale, the Patchwork Girl. It is refreshing to see such a different take on the Land of Oz and it amazes me that Baum finds new characters to describe in each of his tales. The Patchwork Girl's companions include the Glass Cat, Ojo the (Un)Lucky, Shaggy Man, the Scarecrow, the Tin Man, Wizard, Ozma, Glinda, Toto and the Woozy (another gentle beast).

The Accidental Billionaires: The Founding of Facebook: A Tale of Sex, Money, Genius and Betrayal by Ben Mezrich
I know everyone has probably seen "The Social Network" but if you are a Facebook user you deserve to give this book a read. It is a pretty fast read and an interesting expose on the founding of the social network that changed your daily life. What I found most interesting was not only the transformation of Facebook as it added capabilities over the years, but the other websites and programs its founders and business partners were a part of. Truly a brain trust running this company. Being one of the first non-Harvard schools on Facebook, I was able to make an account as soon as I got my college email address back in May of 2004. It was nice to relive how my own Facebook account has changed over the years.

The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle
Great collection of short stories of Holmes and Watson's adventures. I love how each story is so different in both tale, character and mystery. Some are robberies, others disappearances and others just mysteries. A great read, especially before bed. I loved reading one or two adventures each night.

Broomball Takes Me Out

This is going to be a short one and I apologize in advance for any typing issues as I am now rocking a hot pink cast on my left hand. Saturday night I became the victim of a hand and wrist injury in a spirited game of broomball at the Toyota Center in El Segundo.

The before and after.

In a fantastic pirouetted flip I fell full force first on my left hand fingers and then on my wrist with all my body weight. Because I thought it was minor I continued to play. When the adrenaline was gone I realized I was in a lot of pain.

For those who don't know, broomball is best described as field hockey on ice. And i choose to play in converse sneakers, not my finest moment.

Fast forward to Sunday and me in Urgent Care. The doctor informs me that they can't really tell what is going on but that there are two bones touching that should not be and that I am going to need an MRI to see what is really going on. He was also referring me to an orthopedic surgeon. AWESOME.

At Urgent Care.

So I now get to rock my first hard cast of my life. For those that know me, I know you think this is hard to believe, but its true!  I've only ever had air casts or half casts that were secured by ace bandage before. My most intense was my walking boot. The silver lining is at least its my favorite color, hot pink; I can still hold a solo cup in my hand (Mardi Gras in New Orleans is in 2 weekends); and I think I can still hold a ski pole with it (I'm going  to Whistler at the end of February).

Hot Pink Plaster

Long story short my posts going forward will be more photo focused for the next few weeks as I recover and I will be lusting after my closet as I stick to a uniform of black trousers, J.Crew V Neck T-Shirts and my J.Crew field jacket (the only one that fits over my cast).

What Am I Wearing? by preppy-lizzy featuring cotton shirts

Pilates Here I Come!

Today is my first day, first ever class of Pilates Reformer. I have done pilates videos at home but I have always wanted to work out on the fancy machines and today is finally the day. As part of my resolution to lose the weight, I wanted to mix up my routine and add some structured classes to my workouts. I also wanted to do my strength training and I like how pilates uses your own body weight for resistance work.

When I got back from Christmas Vacation, I noticed that my gym was offering a beginners pilates class starting January 21st for an extra fee. Classes are $20-$22 each depending on how many classes per package you order, but they don't expire can can roll into any level of pilates. It's also great because the classes at Spectrum are really small and you get a lot of attention from the instructor. So really its pretty good bang for your buck.

My husband being ever supportive told me to go for it and sign up right away! Tonight is my private session to determine what level I should place into and get my first attempts at the machines one on one. I figure you would wear something similar to yoga for pilates, right? Since it's not high intensity cardio, I don't think I need my gym buddy, my TaTaTamer but instead can get away with one of my Lulu shelf bra tops.

Here is what I am rocking to today's class. Hope I got it right!

What I'm Wearing... Pilates Reformer Class by preppy-lizzy featuring lululemon

Dream Dinners Make Homecooking Easy and Fun!

I recieved no compensation for this post, just wanted to share a great service I use every month myself!

Source: Dream Dinners

Last summer a few of my girlfriends and I started attending sessions at Dream Dinners to prepare 6-8 dinners each month and tonight we had our January Session. The meals last for 3 months in the freezer and take anywhere from 15-30 minutes to prepare if they are stove top and 45-60 minutes to prepare if they are oven based. The great thing about the company is that you get to see what exactly goes into your meals and customize them to the tastes of your family.

Each month you select your meals for the following month (they come in 3 and 6 serving portions) and when you arrive on your scheduled day, you follow the recipe at each station to put together each meal. But what if you don't like olives and the recipe calls for them? Swap them for extra sun dried tomatoes or feta cheese. All the foods are flash frozen fresh, the meats are organic and free range, and the the dairy products are low in fat. Even on Weight Watchers, these meals are coming out to low point values. You can get their nutritional facts each month to make sure and all the meals are pretty healthy. Some meals come with sides included while others are just the main dish (the prices are adjusted accordingly), but the great thing is that they are all easy to make.

Dream Dinners in Torrance, CA

Remember my husband who can only cook toast, well he has been helping me in the kitchen more and more due to Dream Dinners. The instructions are easy to follow and its a great introduction to cooking whether its a timid husband or your kids.

For January, one of our family favorites was back, the Firehouse Three Cheese Pasta with Meatballs, which Dan just adores; so of course we made just of few of those.

Heather and Angie making Firehouse Cheese Pasta with Meatballs.

Kelly finishing up her Firehouse Cheese Pasta with Meatballs. It's a group favorite.

 I also made Meatloaf Milano with Mashed Potatoes (it has a layer of cheese in the middle of the meatloaf!), Coconut Mahi Mahi with Jasmine Rice, Parmesan Crusted Chicken and New Orleans Jambalaya. I am really excited for all these options.

My Parmesan Crusted Chicken during preparation.

We also had to pick our choices for February tonight. I am looking at selecting a few return favorites: Crispy French Onion Chicken, Buffalo Ranch Chicken and Parmesan Pesto Salmon with Cheese Crisps ;and some new options: Layered Ravioli Bake, Rio Grande Chicken Fajitas, Cattelman's Pie, Blackened Mahi Mahi and Arroz Con Pollo.

All in all the process takes about an hour a night and you have meals for a month. Personally we make 6-8 meals every month, but you can make as many as suits your lifestyle. We get to enjoy wine and girl talk; and we know with confidence what we are bringing home to our boys. You can even host a party with all your friends at a Dream Dinners location and have appetizers and drinks. Dream Dinners even brings out their own samples for you to try during your party!

Each attendee has their own freezer spot to keep their prepared meals cold as they go through their list.

All my meals ready to go for January.

Seriously, find a Dream Dinners in your area if you haven't already. You can still mix in home cooking, but for the price and time savings, it really can't be beat. Oh and did I mention that the food is delicious??

Rainy Day Uniform

Well the rain has come to Los Angeles. Rain is a very normal part of our winter in Southern California and we all knew at sometime that our unseasonably warm weather would have to end at some point. Well last night I got to fall asleep to the sound of rain falling, which is honestly one of the greatest sounds in the world and when I woke up to it still raining I knew it was time to break out my rainy day uniform.

Lucky for me my new rainboot ballerina flats from Kate Spade arrived just in time! They are adorable and I love that I can walk through puddles without worry of ruining my shoes! My rainy day outfit is made up of my rainboot ballerina flats, cigarette pant black crops, long sleeve patterned blouse (today I am sporting silk in black and white polka dots) and my J.Crew Collection Trench. If it's really pouring I will substitute my trench for my North Face Waterproof Windbreaker.

Rainy Day Uniform by preppy-lizzy featuring a white long sleeve shirt

I also love my Sperry Rainboots but they are harder to pull off for work. For that reason alone I love my rainboot flats. The other great thing about them is for the most part they are very affordable. Here are some of my favorites on the market.

Can't Live Without by preppy-lizzy featuring flat shoes

1. Tory Burch Jelly Bow Ballet Flat in Raspberry Sorbet ($125). Also available in Black, Flame Red and Tory Navy.
2. Titled Tie Rain Flats in White ($70). From Anthropologie. Also available in Blue.
3. Ted Baker Logo Bow Ballet Flats - Joleey in Green/Light Orange ($90). From Bloomingdales. Also Available in Black/Cream and Light Pink/Black.
4. Kate Spade New York Jennie Flats in Cobalt ($98). Also available in Pink and Black options.

Organized Can Still be Cute!

I adore daily planners. I know many of us carry smartphones that can do almost everything for us these days, but there is something special about pulling out your planner and it being something you love that is so you. I carry mine in my purse daily and have space not only for meetings, but pages for doodling and taking notes on upcoming blog posts. I personally am addicted to my Russell + Hazel planners but all of these planners are awesome options and at a number of price points are great for every budget.

Love Love Loving by preppy-lizzy on Polyvore

1. Russell + Hazel Mini Three Ring Binder ($15 for binder, $24 Daily Calendar, $9 Filler Paper, $10 Grid Paper, $14 Tabs)
I have to thank Carly of The College Prepster for her post on Russell + Hazel planners because they have totally changed my day-to-day life. I absolutely adore my Russell + Hazel mini binders and I use my gold binder with zebra rubber band (just like Carly) for my day to day planner and blog post planning and my purple binder with green chevron rubber band at work for meeting minutes and notes during my work day. I love that they are reusable and completely customizable to your life. In my gold binder I have my calendar for 2013 and both filer and grid paper. My purple binder is filled with mostly filer paper, but some grid paper for doodles always finds it way in. The great thing is that you can get this system at The Container Store. Thanks Carly for the great idea!

2. Lilly Pulitzer 2013 Monthly Planner ($16)
This was one of the standard planners I used to rely on back in college. It has plenty of room to get important dates down and the patterns are always bright and colorful ever season. And when you get to look forward to another great Lilly print each month, how could you not love it. It's also a bigger size making it easy to find in a backpack.

3. Today is the Day Pocket Planner ($15)
I love the message that comes with this planner. It would only keep me inspired to get my To Do List done as quickly as possible. Ruche has only 5 left in stock so get on this one ASAP. The front cover says Today is the Day and the back cover; Make it Happen, as seen above. It has room to make notes for each day, which is great.

4. Kate Spade New York Tudor City Large Debra ($198)
I love that this is another reusable planner and in the large size you can really use this running from meeting to meeting, taking notes and keeping your calendar in check. I also love that this color is called Ringwald Pink. How could you not be "Pretty in Pink" with this kind of planner? The planner comes with the 2013 Calendar inserts, but you can repurchase new inserts each year from Kate Spade.

5. Graphic Image Personalized 2013 Notebook Planner ($70)
This planner is great because it can be personalized with your initials so for the monogram lovers out there like me, this is a great choice. It also comes in the pink color above as well as bright orange and mocha. I love the pink and the orange; it was hard to pick which one to feature!

6. 2013 Rugby Weekly Planner ($20)
This is a great planner. It has both monthly and weekly areas to get your information and plans down right. It is made just for you via Etsy and there are multiple prints for you to choose from. I was immediately drawn to this style because the colors are my favorite (they were my wedding colors exactly) and who doesn't love a preppy rugby stripe. Also for $20 how can you go wrong? The College Prepster also featured this planner recently as a great option for a daily journal.

Do you still use a hand written planner, or are you all digital these days? What's your planner like?

Watches to Die For

I adore a good watch. I know a lot of us have our trusty standby that we wear everyday, but watches are a great accessory that can totally change up an outfit. While I rely mostly on my Oversized Rose Gold MK, I sometimes get inspired to mix up the look with a watch that is totally different. In my watch box at home, I currently have a number of watches including my grandfather's gold watch on a black leather strap. It is one of my most special pieces because it is a nice reminder of him as well as being a beautiful piece. Besides my grandfather's watch, I also have a Snoopy watch from my mom when I was a kid and 2 fossil watches, one from my high school graduation and another oversized piece but in silver. It's funny that men's watches 30 years ago were smaller than women's watches today, but as a result of collecting family pieces along with some modern timepieces, you get a great watch collection to compliment all your looks.

With my eBay sellings I recently purchased a new watch as I have been wanting to transition from my oversized watch to something a little more delicate and I am terrified to wear my grandfather's watch daily in fear of damaging or losing it. I got the Kate Spade Cooper Strap Watch with the Mint/Turquoise wristband and I am so excited for it to finally come! I've also made a resolution to start mixing up my watches more rather than rely on one standard. It's fun to get a new look going and it gives your pieces a break from constant wear and tear, prolonging their life.

My New Kate Spade Copper Strap

Here are some of my favorite watches out there these days that I would totally consider adding to my collection. In fact, number 3 is the watch I just purchased! At a range of prices and styles, you can really make these work for any budget and style.

Love Love Loving by preppy-lizzy featuring marc jacobs jewelry

1. La Mer Collections Egyptian Chain Wrap Watch ($106) With this watch, who needs a stack? Stack and watch are built into one in this great piece in black and gold. And the price is pretty great for a watch alone, but when you think that it also covers your stack, its a great price. Hop on over to Shopbop to pick one of these guys up!

2. Viscid Watch in Blue ($58) This watch is super cute and the rubber band is flexible and comfortable to wear. It comes in four colors, sky or mint, white, rose and blue. The only warning about this watch is to not get it near water. I got this watch in rose as a shower gift and wore it on my honeymoon. Unfortunately it got wet and fried the mechanics inside. Still really cute as long as you are careful with it.

3. Kate Spade New York Copper Strap in Gold/Turquoise ($195) Can't wait to open the box with my new watch. Kate Spade Leather is traditionally very soft and i expect nothing less from this watch as it ages. It's a beautiful piece and the color reminds me of a cross between turquoise and mint. The watch is also available in black, pink, and black tufted leather.

4. Kate Spade New York Metro Watch in Gold ($175) I love this watch because it reminds me of Kate Spade's China pattern that matches. The gold is not overpowering but a nice neutral on this watch. You could easily dress this piece up or down.

5. Marc by Marc Jacobs Rock Chrono Watch ($350) The most expensive watch of the bunch for sure but also so preppy and nautical. I love the look of this watch. The rose gold with the white and blue stripes make me think of cabanas in the South of France and immediately I am having Vacation Wanderlust. I would love to rock this watch all summer long.

6. AEO Neon Pink Watch ($24.50) This watch is a great deal and an awesome way to work a pop of color into your outfit. I love pink, and at under $25 you don't have to feel guilty about adding this guy to your watch repertoire.

Margaret Elizabeth. Jewels to Compliment Any Look

I received no compensation for this post, just wanted to share one of my favorite companies!
Margaret Elizabeth is one of my absolute favorite jewelers and has the most amazing customer service to boost. Meg, the owner and Margaret Elizabeth herself, takes great pride in her work and designs and strives to make sure her customers are nothing but completely satisfied with their pieces.

I was first turned on to Meg's designs via a Style Me Pretty post and sale she was offering when planning my wedding and immediately fell in love. I snatched up a few pieces, including a one of a kind piece to wear at my wedding reception. It was an absolutely gorgeous piece made up of four strands of fresh water pearls and a one of a kind gold and lapis vintage brooch. It was the perfect change from my statement earrings from the wedding ceremony and a piece I've been complimented on many times over.

Our Wedding Day - My Margaret Elizabeth One of A Kind Pearl and Lapis Necklace

On Our Honeymoon - Lapis Necklace with Pearl and Gold Vintage Brooch

On Our Honeymoon - Coral with Crystal Vintage Brooch

Since I purchased that One of A Kind piece, I have invested in a number of her other One of a Kind Pieces. The great thing is that even if a piece is sold that you liked, Meg will work with you to recreate a similar piece. She also recently started making great druzy one of a kinds that are great and a little more funky. Here are a few of my favorites currently available.

Druzy Cave Pendant

The Pippa



The Charlotte

Meg also makes beautiful rings, earrings and bracelets. My husband has treated me to some great pieces for our wedding and Christmas. And they have graced some great moments of my life, including my wedding, honeymoon, bachelorette party, Christmas and New Year's. Here are some of my favorite pieces that you can pick up today.


Emerald Cut Aqua and Moonstone Earrings

Teardrops Seafoam Chalcedony

The Rachels in Pink Amethyst

 Emerald Cut Cocktail Ring Green Onyx

Ophelia Cocktail Ring Black Onyx

And the best part is that today only, Margaret Elizabeth is offering a flash sale for the next 12 hours. 20% off everything in the store with the code HappyToBeBack.

Beach Wanderlust

So today is a National Holiday correct? That's what I thought. Except I'm at work today. I know, cue the world's smallest violin. I have no right to complain because I may have the best vacation time ever, but its still a bummer since the weather is amazing right now and my hubby has the day off and all I want to do is hit the sand with him right now and enjoy my kindle and the sunshine.

Because every kid has the day off today, the drive to work today was a breeze and a lot of people took the day off from work as well so there is a possibility that I could take half a day off today and work a full day on Friday instead of doing my usually half day Friday, its just a decision of how far ahead I want to get for the rest of the week....

As I sit in my cubicle my head is full of thoughts of sunshine and sand on my toes. I am sure some of you are spent your day shopping and others enjoying our President being sworn in at the Inauguration. I even know a few of you were there in person.. Cough cough.. Copper....

How are you all spending your holiday??

Robin Sparkles to Return with a Brand New Song

Big New HIMYM Fans, Robin Sparkles is to return on February 4th with a brand new song and storyline on How I Met Your Mother. James Van Der Beek will be reprising his role as her dead beat boyfriend. Alan Thicke, Jason Priestley, and Alex Trebek will also be appearing in the episode but I have not seen anything about their characters.

Robin Sparkles in the February 4th Episode

Robin Sparkle last made her return to the show when it was discovered that she and Jessica Glitter did Space Teens with Alan Thicke and their pet Beavers. I wonder what shenanigans she can get into this time. And if Barney, now that they are engaged, will be able to torture her to the same extent.


Robin Sparkles with Jessica Glitter, Alan Thicke and their Beavers on Space Teens.

Now I am not sure how one can top Sandcastles in the Sand or my all time favorite (and ringtone) Let's Go to the Mall, but I can't wait to see HIMYM try.....

OH my god I can hardly contain myself. What about you?! Already working on my Halloween costume perhaps??

4 Ways to Rock One Neon Staple

Neon is a great trend, but maybe you only want to invest in one or two staple pieces. A great staple piece is always a blazer. Currently I am loving my Gap Ponte Academy Blazer in Neon Coral. The color is electric pink (not anything like the color online - think highlighter pink).

But how do you style this staple for use at , a night out, Sunday brunch, running errands or the office? Here are a few ways you can make this piece look brand new for every aspect of your life.

4 Ways to Wear a Neon Blazer by preppy-lizzy featuring zero maria cornejo

1. A Night Out
I love this look for a night out for either dinner and dancing with your guy or a girl's night out. I love black crop pants because they are so versatile in your closet and are a great piece that can go day to night. If you rock this outfit with some cute flats you could easily work this for work and then switch to some awesome heels and add some funky jewels, amp up your makeup and throw your hair up in a high pony and hit the town. This outfit is also easily put together from items you may already have in your closet.
2. Sunday Brunch
I love the combo of Navy and hot pink. They were my wedding colors. This Reiss dress is super relaxed yet so ladylike (I imagine Princess Kate owning a piece like this) and I love it paired with some natural braided wedges. You can easily take this look into the fall if you swap the wedges for knee high riding boots and add a gauzy scarf.
3. Running Errands
Blazers and shorts are a great combo. I live in LA where its warm almost all the time, so a lot of the time I'm either in sundresses or shorts, but a blazer is a great way to keep the chill off in the Spring and Fall seasons. These ivory shorts are great because they are a little dressier so you can easily also work this look for dinner or brunch if you add some fun accessories. I also adore this Tory Burch sandals. They are simple and clean and would go with so much in your closet.
4. At the Office
I actually wore my highlighter pink blazer to the office the other day in a similar look. If your jacket is one solid color, you can do some detailing like this on the skirt and then pick another neutral color like this deep blue to pop under the pink jacket. Since my blazer has grey piping, I paired mine with a black pencil skirt, but still used a blue top and black flats. It's all about picking pieces you already have to make it work.

Because the blazer is your standout piece, you want to pick other pieces that will compliment it well and not fight for attention. Let your neon piece be the color rock star that day.

Ever Think the DMV would be a Silver Lining???

Sometimes you have to laugh at your bad luck. At the end of last year I started splitting my work day between my office and a supplier about 6 miles away. I love my office. It's homey and a great area to work. Unfortunately the supplier I spend my time at is not located in as nice of an area and on top of that has almost no visitor parking in its lot. As a result I spend almost everyday roaming the streets looking for a parking spot.

I'd gotten into a groove with my daily parking location and it was only a short walk from the supplier office, when yesterday I walked out to the car to find my registration tags were missing from my license plate! I am weird I know. Because I travel with a laptop for work and go to the gym daily, I am a bag lady and as a result feel like I live out of my trunk. As a result, I see my back license plate at least 6 times a day. So when I last night I looked at my tags and saw 2010 on my car instead of 2014 I was a little confused. Upon further inspection you could see where the tags had been chipped away and even see some of 2009 and the license plate base showing through.

At this point there wasn't more I could do except run my ass off at the gym and then reward my bad luck with some delicious Cafe Rio. Although I was terrified to park there because every LA police officer lives at Cafe Rio and I didn't want to have to go through having to get a citation reversed because my registration is in fact up to date. (Not that I fault the cops, the food is amazing)

As I wait to be pulled over for expired tags, I at least was able to go to the DMV and get a new 2014 sticker. (I have to clean the plate and but slash marks in the sticker before I can but the new tag back on to discourage theft apparently.) I have to say this is where the silver lining existed at least for me.

As I went to the DMV today I was pleasantly surprised that the wait was under 30 minutes long. Now there is never an under 30 minute wait at any CA DMV if you don't have an appointment, and I didn't. But as I was waiting in line for my application and number, the workers made an announcement that all their systems for processing drivers licenses, learners permits and IDs were down and therefore all they could do were written exams and registrations and titles essentially. MY LUCKY DAY! Sucks for everyone else, but every crappy situation has a silver lining. So yes I had to pay another $19 for tags I already paid for, but at least I was there for only 27 minutes. Boo YA!

What I'm Loving... The Return of the Full Skirt

One of my favorite silhouettes has always been a great full or a-line skirt. I love that the full skirt trend is back. Whether its a mini skater skirt or a knee length circle skirt. it helps to balance out a full chest and is so very ladylike! Here are just some of my favorites out on the market today. I may have to jump on the Topshop Faux Leather Skirt, but I would adore any of these pieces in my closet!

What I'm Loving.. Full Skirts by preppy-lizzy featuring a metallic skirt

1. Topshop Black Full Skater Skirt ($76) This skirt is so fun and probably my favorite of the bunch. I love the full leather skirt trend that has been going on now. I think I fell in love when Nicole Ritchie wore that laser cut leather circle skirt a few months back and I have been trying to get in the trend. For $76, this may be the perfect piece to dip my toe into the waters.

2. Tibi Kelp Silk Faille Full Skirt ($525) Obvi a dream skirt, I love the color. Not sure I would call it Kelp, more like acid green, but regardless I love this color. It reminds me of the dress Julie Bowen wore to the Emmys last year. I also like that this skirt is a little longer. It adds a nice ladylike touch to an otherwise flashy piece.

3. J.Crew Voile Skirt in Stripe ($128) I am glad J.Crew is adding some A-line skirts back into its designs. I love a great pencil skirt but there is something more freeing about the A-line. I like the stripes but overall like the shape best here. I hope they release this shape in other fabrics.

4. Blugirl Blumarine Knee Length Skirt ($490) I love this skirt. For some reason I feel like this a piece Duchess Catherine would wear. The color is versatile for all seasons and the stitching is what makes this extra special. This is another one of those dream skirts.

5. Forever New Charlie Printed Prom Skirt ($63) Love, love, love the pattern here. It makes me think of spring and I would love to pair this with just a plain white v-neck tucked in. From an Australian company, beware of shipping costs, but the price is great!

6. Dice Kayek Pleated Bow Panel Skirt ($535) You would need a great event for a piece like this. The gold is so rich looking and the size of the bow downplays the fact that it is a bow, but instead looks like some great draping. What dream event could I wear something like this to?

7. Burgundy Tutu Tulle Skirt ($137) How could you not feel like an updated Carrie Bradshaw in a piece like this. The color is so rich and the length is longer than Carrie's tutu in the opening credits of Sex and the City, but it still has such a whimsical feeling about it. Definitely not a workplace piece, but I could imagine wearing this out to dinner, drinks, parties or even to Sunday brunch.

8. Orla Kiely Sparkle Skirt ($180) The dimensional quality of this fabric is what makes this piece so rich. You could definitely take this piece from day to night since it is a great heavy weight fabric in navy.

9. Olympia Le-Tan Aude Skirt ($475) I may be so attracted to this piece because I went to private school in Manhattan and it reminds me of a school uniform but updated to a more ladylike place. It may also be me reconnecting with my Scottish heritage. Either way, I love this plaid piece. I would love to pair this with black flats, tights and a cream sweater and go to brunch or dinner. I would also rock this piece for a day at the office.

Are you embracing the circle skirt return?

Madewell - End of Season Sale 30% Off

Madewell is hosting one of it's end of season sales, offering 30% off all Sale items if you use the code LOVEIT through January 15th. There are some great pieces in the sale and some items from the last two seasons at great reduced rates.

I have really come to love Madewell's dresses, shoes and sweaters. Here are some of my favorite pieces of the sale. As of now they are all still available. Unfortunately there were a few that were already sold out, so I did my best to not include those.

What I'm Loving..Madewell Final Sale by preppy-lizzy featuring ballet flats

1. Leather Shift Dress The Burgundy color is absolutely amazing and what is not to love about a great leather dress. This is definitely a statement piece that can be worn in all facets of your life. Originally $450, it is now listed at $269.99, which after the 30% off sale comes to $188.99.

2. The Film Noir Pump in Suede I love this Yellow color and the style of the pump is classic 1940s and 1950s that you can't help but feel a little pin up girl in these shoes. Suede is a great fabric for shoes during the winter months and the color is great to add a little pop of color to any outfit.Originally $198, it is now listed at $139.99, which after the 30% sale comes to $97.99.

3. Silk Romper This could be a really fun piece moving into the spring and summer months. The black and white silk gives the romper a nice graphic pattern and these would look great with ballet flats or wedges or for lounging around the house with your love. Originally $98, it is now listed at $69.99, which after the 30% sale comes to $48.99.

4. Skinny Colorpop Jeans I love colored jeans and these are a great price for a really nice pair of skinnies in a great red color. They also have tons of sizes still available and skinnies in cords as well. Great to add to or start a colored jean collection. Originally $125, it is now listed at $59.99, which after the 30% sale comes to $41.99.

5. Wool Bell Shorts Dress shorts are still in style and these are a pair that can be worn with or without tights and really spread the seasons. The color is great and the shorts have a nice full quality that allows the shorts to easily transition from day to night and season to season. Originally $98, it is now listed at $59.99, which after the 30% sale comes to $41.99.

6. The Sidewalk Skimmer in Calf Hair These calf hair flats in pearl ivory are adorable and play with the animal print trend without being over the top. These would be great with jeans, dress pants or a great summer dress. Originally $135, it is now listed at $89.99, which after the 30% sale comes to $62.99.

7. Giant Jackalope Sweater I adore this sweater. It is funny and original and the mix of grey and teal is nice. Definitely a conversation starter, you will be noticed in a piece like this. Originally $88, it is now listed at $59.99, which after the 30% sale comes to $41.99.

8. Sequin Shorts If you like to rock shorts for nights out, these are the ones for you. Like the red bell shorts, these also transition well season to season, but these are definitely more night out only kind of shorts. Pair them with tights or go bare skin. Either will look great! Originally $125, it is now listed at $89.99, which after the 30% sale comes to $62.99.

9. U.K. Storyteller Scarf A pretty scarf that can also start a conversation, you can dream of trips to the home of our nation's founders and use your scarf as a road map. Originally $59.50, it is now listed at $39.99, which after the 30% sale comes to $27.99.

I'm loving the Leather Shift Dress, Film Noir Pumps, Skinny Colorpop Jeans and the Giant Jackalope Sweater best. Did you pick up anything from the Madewell sale?

January Closet Cleaning - Use eBay!

I have to say eBay was one of my great rediscoveries of 2012. I had created a seller account a few years ago when I wanted to sell a pair of split fins that I was no longer using for diving, but then I let my account fall by the wayside.

Last year, my sister in law Laura informed me that instead of taking bags of clothes to Goodwill every year, I should try my hand at selling the good quality stuff on eBay first. I have to say, she was right. I have been able to recoup some costs from clothes and accessories I no longer fit into or wear and as a result, have given myself a little shopping income on the side, which my husband appreciates. I will say higher priced brands seem to resell the best, especially Lululemon, J.Crew, Kate Spade, Anthropologie, etc.

Another added bonus is discovering all the great stuff that is in my closet that I just didn't realize was there before. Because I had too many pieces jamming my closet, I couldn't see all the potential my wardrobe had. As I result I feel like I have rediscovered some old favorites and put together some great new outfits I never would have anticipated before.

Now this is not to say that I still don't have items to take to Goodwill. I usually will relist items a few times on eBay, but if they are still not selling, I will ultimately take them to in for donations. Now is a great time to test out the eBay waters. From January 13 to January 19th, eBay is offering unlimited free auction style listings, so what's to lose! I may do another pass through my closet myself.

What do you do with all your unwanted clothing and accessories?

What I'm Loving... Bow's On My Toes!

I adore the bows and have been sporting them long before it became such a trend this past season. But I have so say, what I am most excited about is the amount of bows that are gracing us with their presence on footwear these days. I adore a good heel, wedge, sandal or ballet flat with a great bow, how can you not?

What I'm Loving...Bows on my Toes! by preppy-lizzy featuring leather ballerina flats

1. Kate Spade New York Karolina Bow in Seafoam Patent I adore these shoes. I love the color mint and I am so excited its a color for the spring season. It's been popping up everywhere. These also come in a great blush color if you want something a little more neutral. Dying to have these.

2. J.Crew Etta Bow Pumps in Riviera Sand These just feel luxurious. The leather bow is such a rich detail and the shoe has such a classic 50's vibe, I cannot get enough of it. This blush color is also a great neutral that is so ladylike. They also come in a grey which is beautiful as well!

3. Kate Spade New York Krysta in Cobalt/Turquoise/Chartreuse These shoes are so fun and a great something blue for any brides out there. I love how the three colors play together!

4. J.Crew Maddie Ballet Flats in Metallic Rose Three of my favorite things come together in these shoes, ballet flats, bows and rose gold! I cannot get enough of these! They are absolutely beautiful and so ladylike. The metallic leather also makes them so versatile. These can easily go from day to night.

5. J.Crew Classic Leather Ballet Flat in Spearmint Every classic ballet flat has a great bow. This color is also in the mint family, which is so on trend for this coming spring. What is also great is the two tone quality of the piping around the edging of the shoe. I love J.Crew ballet flats. They are super comfy and last a long time!

6. Kate Spade New York Trixie in Black/Cream/Gold I recently got my first pair of Kate Spade flats and found them to be super comfortable. They are so rich looking and I find these no exception to other Kate Spade Flats on the market. The mix of shine, print and materials is really nice and exciting to see in a flat.

7. Kate Spade New York Tresor in Maraschino Patent Another shoe with a 50's vibe, this bright red peep toe wedge is adorable. Red shoes look great with any outfit and these are so lady like they are definitely worth keeping an eye on.

8. Kate Spade New York Charm in Navy These are beautiful shoes. The sequins are a fun way to punch up a night out but I like that the Navy is a different perspective on the sequins trend.

9. Kate Spade New York Trendy in Gold/Natural These are great for a beachy look. I would love these with a great patterned maxi dress and straw fedora. I am thinking about summer already!

Elizabeth McKay - Can't Miss This Deal!

Elizabeth McKay is one of my favorite designers. Her super feminine pieces are super flattering and look great on a woman's body. Elizabeth McKay is an American born designer that usually works in a few fabrics each season to recreate her signature styles. The fabrics she picks are luxe and beautiful and she has a strong attention to detail all the way down to the buttons and zippers she uses. You don't feel ordinary in an Elizabeth McKay piece. My favorite pieces are her Tie Blouse, Scotland Wrap Dress and 50's Dress.  This past season she brought back an elephant print in black and white that is simply to die for.


Elizabeth McKay Scotland Silk Wrap in Houndstooth Black

Elizabeth McKay 50s Dress in Chevron

Elizabeth McKay Tie Blouse in Flock Blue

Right now through Sunday, Elizabeth McKay is hosting a great online sale. 50% off everything in the store and free shipping if you entire the code Cheer at the checkout. Items will go fast and all sales are final, but it s a great way to get your first or 15th piece of Elizabeth McKay at a great discounted rate. You owe it to yourself to at least check out the site.