I and Love and You

What I'm wearing:
*Diane von Furstenberg Nuage Top in Ultraviolet
*H&M Polka Dot Shorts (similar here)
*Steve Madden Nataliaa Platform Sandals in Black
*Forever 21 Reading Glasses Necklace (similar here)
*Forever 21 Scalloped Purse (similar here)

Who ever thought that I'd don a pair of polka dot shorts? These caught my eye while I was just in a browsing mood at the mall. They are silky and drape-y and I think they transition well from day to night. (And they were a steal, under $20!)

I had a hard time getting an accurate depiction of the color of this blouse. Instead of the royal blue that it seems like on my monitor, it is actually a nice rich purple shade.

I love the scallop detail and the dusty mauve color. I just feel so lady-like carrying this!

 Fancy sleeves make me feel fancy. (And happy.)

I love my reading glasses necklace, it's such an easy accessory to throw on over any simple top. I think I am especially fond of this one because I've been wearing glasses since I was in 2nd grade, they are such an integral part of me! (I now wear contacts, but do wear glasses from time to time and wear them whenever I am home.)

I have a wedding to attend this weekend in Chicago (yay for C getting married!) and I am super excited about it, but stumped on what to bring. I'm not even sure what I am wearing to the ceremony/reception, and definitely not sure what to bring to wear for everything else. I'll be stopping in NY on my way to and from the wedding, and I need to pack everything I need in a carry on. (I have intense luggage getting lost paranoia.) Wish me luck! Anyone else have any fun Labor Day weekend plans?

Just the Way You Are

What I'm wearing: 
*Gap Dotted Ruffle Dress
*J.Crew Printed Skinny Belt (similar here and here)
*Steve Madden "Engaged" Pumps in Cognac (very similar here)
*Urban Outfitters Flower Necklace (similar here and here)
*Banana Republic Bracelet
*Forever 21 Ring

I fell in love with the print of this dress the moment I saw it. I love the deep blue color (not quite navy) and the rich marigold designs all over it. They aren't just polka dots - they are dots that make up the dots! The slouchy waist and the neckline ruffles ensured that this dress came home with me.

I also took this opportunity to declare all animal print as a neutral, so I could wear it combined with whatever patterns I like. I'm sure this is not everyone's cup of tea, but it is mine.

What's On My Wishlist For Fall?

The cooler weather I've experienced the last couple of days is getting me excited for fall! I know it's still August, but stores are rolling out their fall items and I know that resistance is futile. Fall is definitely my favorite season for clothes, it's all about layering, scarves, and boots, without having to deal with heavy winter coats quite yet. Here are some of my current favorites.

Gap Dotted Ruffle Dress ($69.50)
This dress is the perfect transition piece to lead into fall. Right now you could wear it alone with flats or sandals for a breezy look, and later you can wear it with a cardigan, belt, tights, and boots for a cozy look. I found the fit to be very flattering (since the drawstring waist can be adjusted) and love the blue/gold color combination. How perfect would this dress look with the Bowtied-Beauty Boots listed below?

Gap Herringbone Band Blazer ($98)
For the most part I prefer cardigans over blazers as a layering piece, but this herringbone jacket with a stand collar caught my eye. It has a great slim fit and would look so very cozy layered over a cable knit sweater and wide leg jeans.

anthropologie Bow-tied Beauty Boots ($248)
Boots are such an integral part of any fall wardrobe. I have plenty of simple boots, both dressy and casual, in my closet, but I don't have any boots that have bows! I love the rich color of the leather, and the bows make me smile.

Sparkle & Shine

Forever 21 Pastel Draped Necklace in Mint & Forever 21 Chain Necklace (not found online)

anthro Fitting Room Reviews

I had a chance to go in store and check out a few items that I've been eyeing on the website! I apologize in advance for the terrible photo quality, I forgot my point and shoot camera and had to take these with my Blackberry.

Babergh Dress ($188)

This dress is absolutely lovely! The fit was fantastic (I am wearing a size 6) and I felt very lady-like in it. The scalloped jacquard skirt is my favorite part of the dress, felt substantial and lent some glamour to the dress. The top portion I thought was nice and simple to balance out the busier bottom. I think many other reviewers have mentioned it before, but the floral appliques on the shoulder seemed a little unnecessary. The dress doesn't really need them at all in my opinion.

Twinkle Twinkle Dress ($168)

I adore the fun star print on this green silk number. The shape of the dress is pretty flattering, thanks to the elastic waist, but I think that it would look even better belted. Love the dress but I'll pass on it for now, I don't think that I'd really get a ton of wear out of it. The neckline seems a little high and frumpy for me as well. 

Baby I Like It

 What I'm wearing:
*anthropologie Curated Tee in Navy Polka Dot (other prints and colors here, similar style here)
*anthropologie Bombast & Cymbal Skirt (similar here)
*anthropologie Flower Clip (similar here and here)
*Enzo Angiolini Maylie Pump in Yellow Croc

Have you ever heard a song on the radio and it's so terrible, yet so terribly catchy? That's how I feel about Enrique Iglesias' "I Like It". I definitely hate it and love it at the same time.

I picked up this darling polka dotted Curated Tee on sale, and couldn't resist the bright yellow flower clip/pin because I knew that these items were destined to be worn together. I know it's a lot of color at once, but I think the splashes of yellow make this a very "me" outfit. I love the sleeves on this tee, the shirring makes it a bit more fancy than a plain ole tshirt, and of course I love polka dots! I'm so happy polka dots are "in" right now, I've definitely spotted some adorable pieces at H&M that I have my eye on and may have to go back for.

This is a little silly but thought I'd share!

Summer is still going strong.... what are your current favorite songs to listen to? I'm always up for adding new music to listen to while driving with the windows down. I listen to everything and anything, as you can probably tell from my current faves.

• Bulletproof - La Roux
• Dynamite - Taio Cruz
• California Gurls - Katy Perry f. Snoop Dogg
• I and Love and You - The Avett Brothers
• Alejandro - Lady Gaga
• Toes - Zac Brown Band
• Amsterdam - Guster
• I Like It - Enrique Iglesias
• Misery - Maroon 5
• Something's Jumpin' In Your Shirt - Malcolm McLaren & Lisa Marie

DIY: Framed Necklace Holder

When I lived in my rental apartment in New York City, I had stuck some sticky hooks onto the wall by my dresser to hold my collection of necklaces that always seem to get tangled if I try to store them in any other way. At this moment I am not ready to commit to one area for my necklaces, so I decided to create a more portable option.

Supplies:

• Frame with Glass (I picked mine up for 50% off at Hobby Lobby)
• 3M Adhesive Hooks (the ones I have are pretty small, I would have preferred slightly bigger ones)
• Printed paper of any kind (mine is from the scrapbooking aisle)

This is super easy to make, and will only take a few minutes of your time. All you do is frame the printed paper, and stick the adhesive hooks onto the glass. Voila! Your very own necklace holder that you can hang anywhere you please.

I love the cupcake print, it's so fun!

Leaps & Bounds

What I'm wearing:
*anthropologie Polynesia Greetings Dress
*anthropologie Leaps & Bounds Belt (similar here)
*Bolo Tan Woven Wedges
*Michael Kors Skorpios Ring Tote in Black
*Forever 21 Chain Necklace

Feeling a bit uninspired lately, I have been belting everything lately and today's outfit is no exception. Love the whimsical print of the skirt portion of this dress, perfect for a lazy summer day. I feel a bit too matchy matchy with the accessories in this outfit, but I am happy with the way it turned out.

I had the pleasure of meeting one of my readers yesterday at anthropologie. F, it was so nice to chat with you!!! I also got a chance to try on a bunch of items that I've been eyeing on the website, I will get them up on the blog as soon as I write up the reviews.

Look who was watching from the back door!

Just started a Twitter for this blog!

follow me at twitter.com/loveatfirstshop

anthropologie Sale!

Y'all know what day today is! anthropologie sale day! Here are my picks.

Chantico Tank ($49.95)

This is one of my favorite tanks that I wore this summer. I have it in both white and green, and I love the elegant drape and the soft jersey. Very flattering on, and so easy to wear. I usually wore it with slim jeans or a denim mini.

Precious Materials Cardigan ($59.95)

Surprised that this cardigan is already on sale! The sequined bow is darling, and I feel like it will be a great topper over dresses, or look great on its own with some slim knit pants.

Shifting Feathers Dress ($49.95)

It's pretty evident that I love this dress! It's such a comfortable yet ladylike dress that can be dressed up or down. Love the soft blue color too.

Long Embrace Cardigan ($49.95)

What a great layering piece for fall! I love the longer length and the ribbing makes it more special.

Echoing Dress ($69.95)

How lovely is this dress? Love the darts and the charcoal color. Looks like it would be a great go to dress for happy hours or brunches.

Ancient Pathways Tank ($39.95)

What a pretty paisley print! I think the muted colors in this would make it a great piece to transition into fall. 

Anyone score anything? I'm trying to be good and stick this one out, but we shall see. I'd rather save for new and exciting fall items!

Light It Up Like It's Dynamite

What I'm wearing:
*H&M Striped Sweater Knit Dress (similar here)
*H&M Tan Belt (similar here)
*Steve Madden Nataliaa Platform Sandals in Cognac (on sale!)
*H&M Canvas Bag (similar here)
*Forever 21 Reading Glasses Necklace

Even though it is hit or miss most of the time, I know that I can depend on H&M for great trendy pieces at reasonable prices. Both the striped sweater dress and canvas bag are recent buys that I am super excited about.

I love that there are both horizontal and vertical stripes on this dress.

I love this casual canvas bag, it's a style that I've been eyeing for a while but didn't want to invest too much into it. I love that its super roomy, it fits my laptop, and I feel like I can even use this as an overnight duffel if necessary. (It also came in navy.)

For those that like the Steve Madden Nataliaa's, they are on sale on the website for $40! I have them in both colors, and wear them all the time since they really go with everything.They are surprisingly comfortable for the height, even though sometimes when I'm out I do need to sit down occasionally.

Hope everyone had a great weekend! I sure did, was able to catch up with a college girlfriend, E, and explore what Atlanta had to offer! After a fun Friday night was able to enjoy Saturday with a delicious brunch at Rosebud and some gelato. YUM, what a fabulous way to spend the weekend.

Went to go see Eat Pray Love with my sister yesterday, and I have to say that I wasn't really impressed with the movie. I wasn't a huge fan of the book to start with (read it for a book club ages ago) but I do adore Julia Roberts, and hoped that it would be a fun movie adaptation. It was a beautifully set movie, and Julia looked fantastic throughout, but the story just didn't go anywhere, and there were definitely parts of the movie where I kept looking at my watch, hoping that it was over soon. I did decide that I would love to go to Bali one day though.

Also just wanted to shoutout a very Happy Sweet 16 to my baby sister Teresa!!! =) I can't believe you are all grown up now.

Blackberry Snaps

Savannah & Louis, they are soulmates!

 

Tart frozen yogurt parfait from Yogu-le-hee. (I think the name is hilarious!)

Yummy Korean food from one of my favorite restaurants in Georgia, Jang Su Jang. 

This was taken in NYC, from The Frying Pan. I miss New York!!

Would I Catch You Dreaming?

What I'm wearing:
*Anna Sui for anthropologie Tesserae Dress (similar here)
*Urban Outfitters Sparrow Stretch Belt
*Aldo Maune Suede Lace-up Wedges (similar here)
*Yellow Forever 21 Clutch

When I'm at a loss for something to wear, I reach for a dress. It's a simple solution to a common dilemma- with a dress, you don't need to coordinate top & bottom, just accessories. This embellished dress had been hanging in my closet for awhile, I scored it on sale and have only worn it once. I decided I should take it out for a spin. I think the reason that I never wore it was because it is made up of fall colors, but in a lightweight fabric. It's perfect for now because it's light enough for the heat, but gives me a glimpse at what fall will bring. Fall is definitely my favorite season out of the year.

YUM: Luke's Lobster

I knew I had to have Luke's Lobster one last time before I left the city. I'm such a sucker for their delicious lobster roll. It's just perfect, with the right amount of seasoning and not too much mayo, all on this delightful toasted roll.

This time around at the UES location I decided to order the "Taste of Maine", which consists of a mini lobster roll, mini crab roll, and mini shrimp roll, with a couple of empress claws, a soda, and a bag of chips. (I also ordered some lobster bisque for good measure.)

Here's what I think about each:
*Lobster roll: Delicious as always, huge chunks of lobster. I saved this one for last because it is definitely my favorite (who doesn't like lobster???).
*Crab roll: Probably my least favorite of the bunch, but still good. I am definitely missing Maryland crabs, and this filled that void for now. Lightly seasoned and very fresh tasting.
*Shrimp roll: Enjoyed this a lot more than I thought I would. Really yummy and not *too* shrimp-y tasting, if that makes any sense.

*Blueberry soda: My favorite out of the beverages available at Luke's. I like it because it is lightly sweet, tart, and fizzy.
*Lobster Bisque: The Taste of Maine is enough of a meal for me, but I had to try a cup of this bisque before I left the city. It's pretty good, with hearty pieces of lobster mixed in, but I think it could use a bit more of a kick.

Conclusion? The Taste of Maine is a little pricey at $20, but it is well worth the price in my opinion. It gives you a little taste of everything, but fulfills all of your tastebuds little wishes. A great combo for any seafood fan. 

Somethings Jumpin In Your Shirt

What I'm wearing:
*Velvet for Uniqlo Strapless Drape Dress (similar here and here)
*anthropologie Stormy Seas Necklace (similar here)
*Aerosoles "Adventure" Sandals (similar here)
*Gucci Small Monogram Tote (larger version here)

I absolutely adore wearing white in the summertime. I usually stay away from it, since I am always so paranoid about getting something on it (usually food) and ruining it. But I love the way it enhances a tan, and it just seems so appropriate for the warm weather.

This simple cotton knit dress is from Uniqlo's collaboration with Velvet. Velvet is definitely one of my go to brands for jersey dresses (you know I love 'em) so I made an effort to check out this collection. I figured this dress would be perfect for both an easy to wear dress and a poolside coverup. With this white dress as a blank canvas, I decided to have some fun with some bright accessories. Seafoam and yellow is one of my favorite color combinations.

I just love a classic monogram print, and this wee tote is just the right size to carry everything I need.