Happy Thanksgiving - Twee Look

I hope you all had a fabulous Thanksgiving filled with family, friends, fun, and of course food! I know I did! I also had fun dressing for the evening's festivities which included wine, wii and feeling much too full for any one's own good. H kept making funny remarks in the style of Gossip Girl (the constant narrating she does so well) all night. Well, I guess I was channeling B. If only I were dining at the Waldorf in NYC...

I love these eggplant colored tights and even more with my favorite shoes

outfit details:

grey sweater: Banana Republic - via ebay
black sweater - BP - Nordstrom
skirt - Gap
tights - Payless Shoes Source
shoes: Tory Burch
flower barrette - Aldo Accessories

we're baaaacckkk!

Hello my lovelies,

I know, I know...what happened? It feels like twee has fallen off the face of the earth. No, we haven't! We're back and in full effect!

I'm thinking for my first post in over 3 months I would give you some twee things that I'm wishing for this Christmas...I hope Santa follows us!



* The best beauty gadget out there - The Clarisonic ( I already have one, but do need a new brush head and I know someone who doesn't have one and wants it really bad!)

*For all those wet, rainy days that are sure to happen soon - the Hunter Wellies (the most fashionable rain boots around) plus the welly socks that go inside are equally adorable!

*The best undies ever - Hanky Panky low rise thong set (sexy and comfy, what more could a girl want?)

*My most favorite jeans at least for right now - Hudson (super skinny please)

*Oh yeah, anything from my favorite stores will bring a smile to my face: anthropologie, jcrew, nordstrom

I'll promise to leave the milk and cookies out for you!
xoxo, j

images - picture-book.com/taxonomy/term/31?page=3

Heaven Has A Hole

A hole filled with frosting that is! Today on the way to visit the Kwons I thought I'd stop by Nothing Bundt Cakes as recommended by my cousin-in-law(?) Katrina. She raved about the Red Velvet, so you know I had to try! This place is oh so twee. I know, I know, this blog is usually dedicated to clothes, shopping, and all things girly, but this hidden gem is one I had to share. Located in Dublin or Los Gatos this cute shop looks like a chic boutique. They have many varieties and sizes of bundt cakes, today I tried the bundlets. How cute is that? Mini bundt cakes! We tried Red Velvet (of course), chocolate - chocolate, white - white chocolate, and cinnamon swirl. The cake was so moist and fluffy and the signature cream cheese frosting was delish! If you haven't tried, go! If you love cake as much as me this sweet treat won't disappoint. They deliver and ship to many places, what a twee gift that would be for your BFF, lover, or anyone in between.

The adorable store front, Dublin store

Yumminess is waiting to be devoured inside this non- descript bag...sadly we were so excited to eat the bundlets I failed to take any snaps of the goodies.

IT'S A SHOPPING HOLIDAY!

Today is the day I wait for all year long! Nordstrom's Anniversary Sale, and I was there bright and early to celebrate. I actually went a few days early to view the pre-sale items and get my hands on the items I was coveting before the throngs of people arrived today. I snatched up 2 pairs of boots, these and these (pics of me wearing them to come soon) and of course a pair of jeans. I am beyond happy!

7:45 a.m. A and I stroll in to Nordstrom, Valley Fair. It was packed - it looked like the middle of a Saturday afternoon! True Shoppers Unite!

Pit Stop at Marshalls

On the way home from Target tonight, I decided to make a quick pit stop at Marshalls. I was looking for a box of some sort to put my jewelry in. Not a jewelry box but something that would work for on top of my dresser and get rid of the clutter that I am sick of looking at. Of course I took a stroll through the shoe department, I wouldn't be me without doing so. Does it surprise you that I found something? You know I did! Cute, no?

Madden Girl $24.99

I made my way to the back of the store to the home goods section and found a cute basket lined with a "toile-esque" fabric, (tres chic) and it hides the mess of earrings, bracelets, etc.

Cute basket $5.99

This is what it's hiding for me!

On my way to the register, (must go home, must go home-NOW) a cute embroidered top caught my eye. I had spied something similar at Anthro just the other day but with a price tag of $98! I just can't swallow spending that for a shirt that I might get sick of after 2 wears. This cutie was a mere $14.99 - and you can't beat that with a bat!

Embroidery Top $14.99

I must say that lately I've been far from impressed with Marshalls, but today I scored! I think that's the trick: keep expectations low so that any treat you find is a treasure!

Shoe Envy

I have a problem. I think many of us have the same problem - SHOES! Actually, come to think of it I don't really think it's a problem at all. Shoes after all are a necessity. We cannot walk around bare footed all the time, that's just not hygienic AND an outfit is never complete without the right pair. So, the problem really is not the amount of shoes I have or buy it's more that there aren't enough days in a year to wear them all.

While on a recent girls getaway, J (and it wasn't me!) was lucky enough to score an amazing pair of shoes! While trying to recover from a night of drinking (some drink Bloody Mary's we use Retail Therapy) we went shopping. It just so happened that Nordstrom had just finished their double mark downs! This is a sign of a failing economy if I've ever seen one! When have you ever heard of Nordstrom having to do such a thing? But who's complaining? NOT ME! My fortunate friend spied an adorable pair of black patent Miu Miu's complete with a sweet bow. Not only were they sexy with the fuchsia soles but they were a steal at around $200, originally priced well over $500! She snatched them up with a quickness!

You know I scoured the racks looking for my size, but sadly the Shoe Gods were not as kind to me. And while I am stricken with severe shoe envy I feel better knowing that someone I know and love has given these beauties a new home filled with love and adoration.

Let the birthday celebration begin....

I love the summer for many reasons: warm weather, long lazy days, time to do nothing, tons of shopping to do, and of course MY BIRTHDAY! My birthday is in July and I've already started getting prezzies! Yay! Loves it. I always say they're not necessary but I love them just the same!

The first little gifty I got was from one of my fav stores, Anthropologie. They sent me my 15% birthday coupon! I just love their little packaging - simply adorable. Can't wait to go and see all the pretties I am sure to want!


Then, my Bestee Cathy came and surprised me with my graduation/birthday gift! We've started sewing (if you can call what I have done sewing) and she knows that I want to do more. I love it! The Hello Kitty design makes it pretty enough to leave out, at least I'm hoping H won't mind looking at it once I get started being crafty! I have a few projects in mind to complete this summer....I better get started!

Luxury Shopping for the Twee Recessionista Fashionista

There are tons of websites that offer deep discounts to many designer brands you know and love. I wanted to pass my favorites along to you. Some require invites so if you want one let me know and I will send you an email inviting you to enjoy the savings!

I've seen loads of designer brands represented on these sites. Anything from C&C California to William Rast, Citizens of Humanity, Zac Posen, Vera Wang Purple Label, and even - are you ready...(gasp) Christian Louboutin! I KNOW, you're dying right??? I recently bought a pair of Superga Italian sneakers for 50% off. Regular price at Bloomingdales $80.00, Haute Look price $35.00! What could make a girl happier than a really great sale? Not much, trust me I know!

So, here they are, my favorite sites with nothing but designer labels for less! Happy shopping!

www.gilt.com
www.hautelook.com
www.beyondtherack.com

Jellies, they're back!

I love love love getting packages in the mail. I know H does NOT. However, when I saw this box waiting for me my heart skipped a beat! I had noticed a girl wearing some super twee shoes one day while in my law class. Yes, I know I should have been listening intently to something or other regarding classified employee termination laws but instead I was drooling over my neighbor's footwear. When break finally came, I leaned over and asked her who her shoes were made by and where she had found them. She told me they were BCBG and she found them at Off 5th, but sadly, it was months ago! I was then determined to find them! Luckily my classroom was wi-fi equipped, Google Gods please be kind. She didn't know the name of the actual shoe so searching BCBG flats might prove to be harder than it seemed. But Twee reader(s) you know me...I am diligent if nothing else. If there is a shoe to be found I'm your girl! Sure enough, I found it on Endless.com with free overnight shipping to boot!
These shoes are actually jellies! Remember the jellies we used to wear way back in the day? But these are not just the old run of the mill jellies we used to get for super cheap and they would break apart after a few weeks of wear. Oh no girls, these are high quality jellies (is there such a thing or am I justifying this purchase, wink wink) complete with adornments on the toe box. Please take a moment to admire them with me...

Plump It Up!

I read about the new Max Factor 2000 Calorie Lash Plumper/Mascara and I've been hemming and hawing about getting a lash plumper, but can't swallow the usual $100+ price tag that comes along with it. So, when I heard about this and read the reviews I thought I'd give it a try...I will begin tomorrow and blog any results I find. The box claims to fatten the lashes for a dramatic look. I'll be the judge of that!

Twee Look of the Week

I am in love with a blog I just discovered called iamstyle-ish.com which has this super adorable girl who blogs about her outfits, shopping, design, and photography. I love her "lookbook" posts and thought we should have one too! So, here is my first attempt. It's kind of ugly and grey out today so I did throw a black cardi on for warmth but wanted to show the cuteness of this blouse without it instead.

Blouse: JCrew Outlet - (Yay)
Jeans: Seven for all Mankind - Dojo
Shoes: Report

I'll try to smile more next time, H was kind of annoying me about this... ;)

Goodies for me!

While browsing through Anthro today, I found some super cute goodies for me! I don't have to tell you that I am happiest when shopping. I found these adorable earrings that I just LOVE!
And then when I thought I was done I noticed a simple dress calling my name. I thought, "Oh, I'll just try it on, it can't hurt." It was love at first try-on! The soft flowy jersey is both sexy and comfortable. I am envisioning getting a lot of mileage out of this dress this summer. I see bright pops of colorful accessories like scarves and necklaces! I can't wait to slip it on in San Diego with some sexy heels and hit the town with my girls. What do you think?

gray and white available

Orla Kiely Love

I love all things Orla! So, when Target started the Orla Kiely for Target line a few months back I was more than ecstatic. The delightful patterns are a bit retro and modern all in one. However, the stock was hard to find with some items never even making it to store shelves it seemed. Perhaps there are Target insiders supplying all those Ebay sellers??? Hmmm, whatever the case may be I faithfully scour the store looking for any new items. This weekend was no different. Of course I didn't find much, the little end cap where there used to be so many beauties was barren. Surprisingly, I did see some napkins which I quickly snatched up. Then, while making my way to the check stand I saw two misplaced mugs! Of course I put those into my cart with a quickness! I now have 4 so I can actually have coffee with friends instead of just Han and I. I did a little bit of poking around on the web to see if there would be any more Orla to come in the near future. I found a blurb about some of the items being restocked, but not everything. Mostly linens. So...if you still need your Orla fix keep your eyes open this week and next to satisfy your addiction - oh wait...it's my addiction, that's right.

pretty pretty

So, I mentioned that I was looking for a pair of the jeweled sandals at Target last week that I had seen on budgetbabe.com. Well, I finally had a chance to wear them, what with the weather flirting with summer time temps and all. I wore them one day with a flirty orange skirt and royal blue cardi (someone said I was wearing the Bronco's colors) hmph - that was not my intent but whatev! The next day I couldn't resist wearing them again, this time with some dark denim bermuda shorts and a flowy flowery top. The bronze straps and amber color jewels make them a "go with everything" shoe! They are extremely versatile and I know I will be getting tons of wear (and compliments) out of them. With a price tag of only $19.99 I'd say this find is a winner!

Style w/out sacrifice #2

I love Le Sportsac! I loved it back in high school and it's proved to have staying power. With the whimsical prints and adorable styles how can anyone resist? Their styles are easy to throw on for a day of shopping or perfect to use for travel. Have you seen the carry on size duffel that can be checked in as well. I don't know about you, but when I'm waiting at those luggage carousels watching black bag after black bag pass by I am always regretful that I didn't have an easily recognizable bag. But, the prices on these bags are not exactly cheap. I mean sometimes you can find them on sale... but usually the bag you want is gone!

Last week at Target, (it's MY Disneyland - the happiest place on earth) I noticed some cute Le Sportsac-ish bags! I couldn't resist taking a few snaps to share. Same cute styles: think messenger bags, small pouch type purses, even some carry on duffel bags, all with the adorable designs you would expect from Le Sportsac but ta-da...without the L.S. prices! Take a peek - cute, no?

Messenger Bag with matching make-up pouch - $17.99Graffiti print duffel $22.99Floral print duffel $22.99

Twee's first "Style without Sacrifice"

OMG! I am so excited to be writing twee's first "Style without Sacrifice" post. I was browsing through Target this afternoon enjoying my first day of spring break. It had been a perfect day - boys at the sitter, just had a massage, strolling through Target - not a care in the world. I was pleasantly surprised to see some super cute shoes up and down each aisle. I was there for a purpose though. I was looking for a pair of jeweled sandals I saw on budgetbabe.com which, YAY - I found them, (can't wait for sunny days).
I also tried on the knock-off of the Jimmy Choo snakeskin sandals also found on budgetbabe.com (can you tell it's one of my favorite sites) but sadly, I didn't care for them as much as I'd hoped. So, as I prepared to be on my way, much more to see you know, I come across a pair of super cute gladiator wedge sandals. I tried them on and they were very comfortable! I decided to wait, I had one pair in my hand, no cart and knew that my shopping would be cut short if had to carry not 1 but 2 pairs of shoes through the rest of the store, plus I know they'll be on sale one Sunday very soon. It's just a matter of time. These sandals are super hot, they go with everything this season - maxi dresses, florals, tribal trend, need I say more? Anyway, are you excited to see them? But wait let me finish...my husband suggested we go to Nordstrom (aaahhh, could this day be any better?) to look for a suit...of course I needed to help. As I am strolling through the shoe department I do a double take. What is this I see? The same exact shoe I saw at Target was sitting there! Calling to me, but the price had quadrupled! Well what do you expect? The shoe is by Sam Edelman and is no doubt beautiful! If I had never seen the Target version I might be seriously contemplating this purchase, but now I don't have to! So, while the Nordstrom "Sam Edelman" shoe is beyond twee, if you're like me and like to have LOTS of new shoes you can try the Mossimo "Pearlie" version and have tons more money to buy more and more cute shoes. You know my motto... "If the shoe fits, buy it!... in every color!" What do you think? Are you in love too?

Target $29.99Nordstrom $138

One word........Dior

Ok so I had to post about two of my ultimate favs when it comes to makeup. First off is Dior's Airflash. It says that it's a spray foundation but to be honest it doesn't even feel like that at all! You can use it sparingly but still having enough coverage, resulting in an "airbrushed" effect. Another plus is that it's so light on that it feels like you're not wearing any make-up. The only downside is that it'll cost you $60 but to me it's oh so worth it!

In addition to Dior's Airflash, I am also a fan of Dior's Diorshow Mascara. I love how it lengthens and thickens my lashes. To avoid getting raccoon eyes by the end of the day, I have to use the waterproof version. The price is pretty reasonable $ 24.

OK so those are two of my total must haves but before I end my posting here I'd like to add one last item to the list....why not right?

To get that cute curly effect with my lashes, I have to use my Shu Uemura eyelash curler. This is one of the best eye lashes out there and the best part is that it won't pinch the skin unlike other brands out there. It's selling at Sephora for $19.

Decorate with Silhouettes

Recently I've been fixated with learning how to make silhouettes of my son Justin. Traditionally portrait silhouettes were made by simply looking at the profile and basically cutting whatever you see. It does seem easy but for those who can or can't cut straight, the digital version maybe easier for some.

After scouring the internet on simple DIY's I came across this site that gave easy to follow instructions. If you want to capture a pet, friend, child or even plants you can check out this silhouette portrait tutorial that I found on More Ways to Waste Time. So even if you're not comfortable working with photoshop, this project can still be done.

Here's What You Need

• Digital camera.
• Computer with PhotoShop (or one you can borrow from a friend).
• Frame.
• Subject to photograph.
  

To find out how to make your portrait, just read more

• Using a digital camera, photograph your subject from the side. Shooting against a white wall or a white poster board will make it easier to digitally remove the background during the next step.
• Open the picture in Photoshop. Use the Magic Wand tool to select the background for removal. Once clicked, the background will be outlined and highlighted. Go to "edit" and click "cut." The background will disappear.
• Now go to "image" and click "adjustments." Select "desaturate" to remove all color.
• In "adjustments," select "brightness/contrast." Then lower the brightness and increase the contrast until your image becomes a silhouette.
• If the image isn't completely silhouetted, use the Paintbucket tool (with black as the color selection) to fill in as needed, placing the cursor dead center and clicking until your desired effect is achieved.
• Using the Image tool, select "image size" to set your desired dimensions.
• Save your silhouette as a JPEG file.
• Burn the file to a CD, take it to a copy shop, and print it on paper or card stock.
• Trim the edges and frame.
• Enjoy your new creation!

For those who want to try the easy route and pay money for this service you can also order them from Etsy. These personalized framed silhouettes are oh so twee!

ORANGE

I go through these phases of surrounding myself with my obsessions du jour, usually it's color related. Lately, I am obsessed with all things orange. Maybe it's because I read a poem recently by Jane Yolen or that it's a sure sign of warmer days ahead. Whatever it is - I want everything in this sunny color!
To be honest, it's never been a favorite of mine. The fear of looking like a jack-o-lantern has always been a problem. But, the orange that I am loving is not the one that says "Hello Halloween!" It's more of a tangerine, not quite coral not quite pumpkin. It seems I'm not alone in my attraction because I am seeing it everywhere.

Check these "cuties" get it?? "cuties"...


Old Navy cut out dress in VermillionGap summer cardigan "goldfish"

Jcrew cotton sateen skirt "fresh orange"



Unlisted by Kenneth Cole "Tall Tower" in tangerine

Merona clutch - Target


I especially love pairing any of these colors with other colors that would not be expected, say yellow, plum, blue, even green. Feeling nervous? Try one of these with a pair of jeans, orange is the perfect pop of color every outfit needs. Feel like rocking the orange dress above? Throw on a pair of gold sandals or ballet flats and you're "oh so sweet."
"Orange" you excited to try some for yourself?

Workout shoe obsession....

Lately Joey and I have been utterly obsessed with finding perfect workout shoe. I've seen many pairs but most of them costing so much!

I decided to check out Kohl's because I've heard they carry all sorts of running shoes with reasonable prices. Low and behold I found this cute pair of Asics Women's Gel-Harumi.

It was oh so twee!

To Twee or not to Twee..............

Two b.f.f.s chatting away... always sharing cute sites, thoughts, ideas, etc. Thinking, "Hey we should do our own blog, we can totally do this!"

Self diagnosed shopaholics always on the lookout for the cutest, coolest, most adorable stuff out there. In a word all things twee.

So, we hope you’ll enjoy all our findings as much as we do. Feel free to comment, share your ideas or just say hi!

This is the day we decided to Twee alas....twee was born.

Thanks for stopping by.
xoxo~ cat and joey