Anyone else like me grow up watching Sailor Moon before waiting for the
school bus? It was a daily tradition
for my sister and I. Ahh, memories! I still have bootleg versions of the
series I bought while in college but have since upgraded to the newer
released Blu-Rays. Never getting rid of the original ones though, I love
the old voices! (And yes, I still call Usagi her American name,
Serena, I like it better!) Same thing for Darien, ha ha.
As I'm sure most of you know, I'm not a HUGE makeup person. I'm usually too lazy to put much effort into my look. But when I do want to wear makeup I go big with Chanel (what can I say, if I'm going to wear it, I might as well love it!) I have a few other random brands here and there but that's the bulk of my makeup.
Last year, Colourpop came out with a Disney collection that included one of my favorite characters, Meg! I bought her bundle knowing I most likely wouldn't use it (bright purple eye shadow isn't really my thing.) I did try the lip gloss and really liked the formula - which is big for me because Chanel lipstick is one of the few with a texture I like.
Earlier this year they released a Sailor Moon makeup collection. I resisted buying it the first time around because I had been having some slow work months and didn't need them. When they sold out within 30 minutes I found myself regretting my decision. Luckily for me, they did a re-release in June! I had wanted to splurge on the whole set for $89 but that sold out in seconds so I settled for just the lip glosses and a blush to get a variety of packaging. Once again I purchased knowing I wouldn't use them often, they're more of a collectors piece because I love Sailor Moon.
If you want to own anything in the collection I'm afraid you'll have to resort to paying jacked up prices on eBay. Darn those scalpers who buy up everything super fast!
If you want to get into the show, or relive your childhood, VIZ Media has been re-releasing the 90s version on DVD and Blu-Ray the past few years as part of the 20th anniversary. You can also watch Sailor Moon Crystal which is based a little more off the manga, but they aren't finished yet so if you start you'll have to wait a while for the next installment. Both are also on Hulu.
Sailor Moon Limited-Edition BluRay
I took advantage of a Shopbop promo earlier this month for an extra 25% off sale. I scored a beautiful Ba&sh Paris dress to wear to my brother's wedding. I'm not usually one for long dresses but I felt the occasion called for it and this dress popped out at me while I was perusing the dress section. I almost didn't buy it because it was a bit pricey but since I was using gift cards I decided to treat myself! It's sold out on Shopbop now but you can still get it Ba&sh website or Farfetch. For sizing I bought a 2/Small, which is my usual. I'm fairly short (about 5'2") and it drags a teeny bit with the 3.5" heels I want to wear with it.
THE (modified) RULES
- Be mindful of purchases
- Quality over quantity
- Basics are best
Clothes:
- FARM Rio Amazonian Ombre Mini Wrap Dress c/o Shopbop ($127.50, retail $170)
- Burberry beaded owl sweater via eBay ($75, retail $2950 in 2012)
- Stella McCartney Wild Cat Skinny Ankle Jeans via eBay ($15 after ad money, retail $735)
- *NEW!* Ba&sh "Perla" dress in Green Light c/o Shopbop ($236.25, retail $630)
Basics:
- J Brand 811 Mid Rise Skinny Leg Jean in Moral ($0 after $25 credit & ad money, retail $228)
- Madewell Camp Shorts in Faded Rosebud c/o Shopbop ($35, retail $50)
- Ancient Greek Sandals 'Clara' Sandal c/o Shopbop ($221.25, retail $295)
- Sperry Rio Aqua Slip-On Sneaker ($14.83 via DSW, retail $64.99)
Accessories:
- Ray Ban 'Erika' Sunglasses in Havana c/o Shopbop (retail $163)
- Madewell Medium Slim Saddle Bag c/o Shopbop ($118.50, retail $158)
- Shashi Princess Leia Necklace c/o Shopbop ($55)
Activewear:
- SPANX Look At Me Now Seamless Leggings in Indigo Leopard c/o Shopbop ($68)
Gifted from Brands:
- AUrate Pearl Studs in Rose Gold (retail $150)
- AUrate Medium Chain Bracelet in Rose Gold (retail $50)
Total spent in June: $0
Total spent in 2020: $104.83
There's only so much isolation a girl can take before she shops online. I was doing so well at resisting the urge. But then at the end of last month I got an email from eBay. A seller offered me a discount on a sweater I'd been following for a while. For those of you that are longtime blog readers you'll remember when I DIYed a Burberry owl sweater. To this day I still have an eBay alert setup for "Burberry owl" because I couldn't get the real thing out of my mind. A month or two ago I found this one and followed it knowing I probably wouldn't buy it. Long story short - I bought it. See this post for more.
I also used my Shopbop partnership money for some purchases. I wanted a new pair of leggings for when I eventually get out hiking or walking (still holding out hope for our camping trip for the 4th of July, but I doubt that will happen due to mandatory quarantines upon entering Vermont.) I also ordered a cute pair of Madewell shorts on sale for $35 in a rusty pink since I just have denim and green/beige khaki shorts at the moment. Finished off the order with 3 of the same necklace - one for Mom for Mother's Day and then one for my sister and I so we could all match.
Another eBay purchase ended the month of excessive purchasing. I've been searching for a Stella McCartney cat print blouse for a friend and in the process I found these awesome leopard print jeans! I got the seller down to $80 and had some ad money to cover most of the purchase! Brand new with tags too!
THE (modified) RULES
- Be mindful of purchases
- Quality over quantity
- Basics are best
Clothes:
- FARM Rio Amazonian Ombre Mini Wrap Dress c/o Shopbop ($127.50, retail $170)
- *NEW!* Burberry beaded owl sweater via eBay ($75, retail $2950 in 2012)
- *NEW!* Stella McCartney Wild Cat Skinny Ankle Jeans via eBay ($15 after ad money, retail $735)
Basics:
- J Brand 811 Mid Rise Skinny Leg Jean in Moral ($0 after $25 credit & ad money, retail $228)
- *NEW!* Madewell Camp Shorts in Faded Rosebud c/o Shopbop ($35, retail $50)
- Ancient Greek Sandals 'Clara' Sandal c/o Shopbop ($221.25, retail $295)
- Sperry Rio Aqua Slip-On Sneaker ($14.83 via DSW, retail $64.99)
Accessories:
- Ray Ban 'Erika' Sunglasses in Havana c/o Shopbop (retail $163)
- Madewell Medium Slim Saddle Bag c/o Shopbop ($118.50, retail $158)
- *NEW!* Shashi Princess Leia Necklace c/o Shopbop ($55)
Activewear:
- *NEW!* SPANX Look At Me Now Seamless Leggings in Indigo Leopard c/o Shopbop ($68)
Gifted from Brands:
- AUrate Pearl Studs in Rose Gold (retail $150)
- AUrate Medium Chain Bracelet in Rose Gold (retail $50)
Total spent in May: $90
Total spent in 2020: $104.83
*This post was made in partnership with Nakturnal. Thank you for supporting brands that I feature on the blog*
This post was supposed to happen in April but due to COVID-19 we had to push it back. I've been so excited to wear these pieces and show them on the blog!
I'm very happy to be featuring sustainable and ethical jewelry brand AUrate once again! Last year I featured a gorgeous pearl necklace and this time I opted for matching pearl stud earrings. I rarely wear anything but diamond stud earrings, unless it's a special occasion, so these are a perfect addition to my jewelry collection. I can see myself wearing these pearl studs quite a bit.
Originally I wanted to style them for Easter. When picking out an Easter outfit I think floral dresses and pretty colors. You also can't go wrong with a pop of color with your sandals as well! Luckily we can easily translate florals for a more casual Spring and Summer look. I swapped out the dress for a flowy top and paired it with some green pants (you could also go with denim but I wanted a bit of a change from my usual jeans.)
What I love about AUrate is they are direct-to-consumer, meaning there won't be any retail cost markups you normally see when purchasing jewelry. As an example, there is no import tax because the pieces are made right in New York City. Their pieces are ethically-sourced and sustainably made. You're also getting a lifetime quality guarantee with your purchase. AUrate will re-plate, polish, and repair pieces when needed. If that's not enough, AUrate donates a book in your name for every purchase.
I'm also wearing their rose gold Medium Chain Bracelet made with Gold Vermeil for only $50 (compared to $130 at traditional stores.) AUrate's vermeil is silver coated in 2.5 microns of 14K gold - traditional vermeil only requires a 1.5 micron coating with 10K gold so already you're getting a better product. This bracelet also comes in 14K gold for $200.
Another great feature I recently discovered is their Home Try-On/"Curate" program. It's similar to StichFix or Trunk Club but for jewelry! If you're having trouble picking a piece of jewelry you can do a questionnaire and a personal stylist will hand pick five pieces to send. You'll have a week to try them out, send back the ones you don't want and purchase the ones you like. There is no obligation to keep anything and the service is free! You can only take advantage of this system twice so make it count. And don't worry about anything being out of your price range because you'll include that when you order your Curate Box. *NOTE: Home Try-On is currently unavailable due to coronavirus*
Top: Zara floral blouse, Suede Pants: Blank NYC 'Persuede' jeans (South Moon Under), Sandals: Everlane The Double-Strap Block Heel Sandal in Strawberry, Sunglasses: Gucci Aviator, Jewelry (Necklace, Earrings, Bracelet) c/o AUrate
This outfit comes with a long backstory. But it's necessary to share why I had to make this purchase. Back in February 2012 I posted photos of Burberry's Autumn/Winter 2012 collection. In that post I said:
Even though I had my DIY version I still searched for the real version. I had alerts for "Burberry owl" set up on eBay and a couple other sites. Owl sweaters & tees came and went with me resisting purchase. A few months ago I got an eBay alert that one had been posted. I watched it knowing I probably wouldn't buy it since it had been so long.
But then quarantine happened and I got an offer from the seller to purchase it for $75. How could I resist? Luckily I was able to make the splurge because my recent Disney trip was cancelled and I had a negative balance on my credit card from the refunds. The rest of the refund money will go back into my vacation savings account.
This isn't the exact version I had posted 8 years ago, the sweater is a little lighter and the neck isn't as high, but it is pretty darn close! You can even tell that the owl I recreated was this owl - the colors I chose were very similar. I couldn't replicate the design exactly because I couldn't find small enough beads in colors/shapes I liked.
We're getting in to warmer weather now but I really wanted to post this before it goes away until Fall. Luckily last week we had some cold days so I wore it lounging around the house.
[...] ESPECIALLY the owl print t-shirts. I don't care how much they cost but I am going to get my hands on one of those! I'm an owl obsessed freak…maybe it comes from my Harry Potter obsession but I think they are SO cute!Spoiler alert: I ended up not getting one of the owl tees. Instead I DIYed my own version because I couldn't justify the $300+ price tag. The sweater version with the beaded owl retailed for $3000.
Even though I had my DIY version I still searched for the real version. I had alerts for "Burberry owl" set up on eBay and a couple other sites. Owl sweaters & tees came and went with me resisting purchase. A few months ago I got an eBay alert that one had been posted. I watched it knowing I probably wouldn't buy it since it had been so long.
But then quarantine happened and I got an offer from the seller to purchase it for $75. How could I resist? Luckily I was able to make the splurge because my recent Disney trip was cancelled and I had a negative balance on my credit card from the refunds. The rest of the refund money will go back into my vacation savings account.
This isn't the exact version I had posted 8 years ago, the sweater is a little lighter and the neck isn't as high, but it is pretty darn close! You can even tell that the owl I recreated was this owl - the colors I chose were very similar. I couldn't replicate the design exactly because I couldn't find small enough beads in colors/shapes I liked.
We're getting in to warmer weather now but I really wanted to post this before it goes away until Fall. Luckily last week we had some cold days so I wore it lounging around the house.
I have had today planned since early March 2019. Christian and I were supposed to be at Disney World. More specifically, at Hollywood Studios celebrating Star Wars Day in Galaxy's Edge. When the opening date of Galaxy's Edge was announced my friends and I planned a trip for November 2019. Christian couldn't come because of work so I decided I would buy an annual pass and we would go again within a year. We decided on early May to coincide with Star Wars Day (May the 4th) and Mother's Day so we could have his Mom come along for a few days.
At the beginning of this March I knew we wouldn't be able to go due to coronavirus. I still held on to my reservations (dining, fast passes, even our special tours) until Disney cancelled them automatically because I needed that sliver of hope to get by. We were supposed to arrive at Disney early yesterday. Instead, we woke up in our own bed.
Even though we won't be at one of my favorite places, we are still going to make the best of everything. We have our health, as do our other family members & friends, and we know Disney will reopen eventually and we can go when it is safe to do so.
Back in the day I used to watch every Star Wars movie on May 4th. Now there are far too many so I pick & choose and do my best to get through them all! Since we're both still working we decided to start yesterday with the best films - the original trilogy. I also watched Rogue One on my own when Christian tired of the marathon. I will continue watching today while working (Christian works in another room.)
Forever 21 May the Force Be With You Pajama Top, Forever 21 Trust Me I'm a Jedi Pajama Pants, Sphero BB-8 (he can watch the movies with you and react!)
At the beginning of this March I knew we wouldn't be able to go due to coronavirus. I still held on to my reservations (dining, fast passes, even our special tours) until Disney cancelled them automatically because I needed that sliver of hope to get by. We were supposed to arrive at Disney early yesterday. Instead, we woke up in our own bed.
Even though we won't be at one of my favorite places, we are still going to make the best of everything. We have our health, as do our other family members & friends, and we know Disney will reopen eventually and we can go when it is safe to do so.
Back in the day I used to watch every Star Wars movie on May 4th. Now there are far too many so I pick & choose and do my best to get through them all! Since we're both still working we decided to start yesterday with the best films - the original trilogy. I also watched Rogue One on my own when Christian tired of the marathon. I will continue watching today while working (Christian works in another room.)
What Order to Watch the Movies In
Everyone has an opinion on the best way to watch the Star Wars movies. You can watch them chronologically, release order, with TV shows included OR Machete Order which cuts out The Phantom Menace, which many deem unworthy. If I was having a first timer watch - and they have survived without spoilers this long - I would have them do it in almost release order. (Though I do enjoy Machete order, but I put in Phantom Menace)- Star Wars: A New Hope
- Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back
- Star Wars: Return of the Jedi
- flashback to Rogue One (the fandom is divided on this film, I love it.)
- flashback even further to Star Wars: The Phantom Menace
- Star Wars: Attack of the Clones
- Star Wars: Revenge of the Sith
- flash forward to Star Wars: The Force Awakens
- Star Wars: The Last Jedi (ugh...)
- Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance
- flashback to Solo: A Star Wars Story
What Else to Watch
- The Mandalorian on Disney+: Even if you aren't a Star Wars fan this series is amazing! The cinematography is breathtaking and the story is fun.
- Disney Gallery: The Mandalorian: A documentary series on the making of The Mandalorian - it's brand new as of today! I have to wait until after work to watch the first episode with Christian. After today a new episode will be released each Friday.
- Empire of Dreams: The Story of the Star Wars Trilogy: A documentary on the original Star Wars trilogy.
- Star Wars: The Clone Wars: An animated TV show. I haven't watched this myself yet, I know...shame on me, but lots of friends recommend it!
Other Fun Activities
- Play Star Wars video games - there are plenty.
- Do a Star Wars puzzle
Star Wars Baked Goods
If you like to bake, why not whip up a fun Star Wars treat!- Blue Milk Pudding
- Chewie Chews & Blue Milk
- Ackbar Snackbar
- Yoda Pancakes
- Rey's Portion Bread
- More Official Star Wars Recipes
Forever 21 May the Force Be With You Pajama Top, Forever 21 Trust Me I'm a Jedi Pajama Pants, Sphero BB-8 (he can watch the movies with you and react!)
THE (modified) RULES
- Be mindful of purchases
- Quality over quantity
- Basics are best
Clothes:
- FARM Rio Amazonian Ombre Mini Wrap Dress c/o Shopbop ($127.50, retail $170)
Basics:
- J Brand 811 Mid Rise Skinny Leg Jean in Moral ($0 after $25 credit & ad money, retail $228)
- Ancient Greek Sandals 'Clara' Sandal c/o Shopbop ($221.25, retail $295)
- Sperry Rio Aqua Slip-On Sneaker ($14.83 via DSW, retail $64.99)
Accessories:
- Ray Ban 'Erika' Sunglasses in Havana c/o Shopbop (retail $163)
- Madewell Medium Slim Saddle Bag c/o Shopbop ($118.50, retail $158)
Gifted from Brands:
- *NEW!* AUrate Pearl Studs in Rose Gold (retail $150)
- *NEW!* AUrate Medium Chain Bracelet in Rose Gold (retail $50)
Total spent in April: $0
Total spent in 2020: $14.83
Since I haven't been taking new outfit photos lately I thought I would bring back an old blog series - Favorite Things - and feature some pieces I can't imagine living without. These Miu Miu leopard sandals were one of my first designer splurges back in 2011. They were part of the Fall 2010 collection and I was low key obsessed for a while before I purchased them.
I first posted about them in October 2011 but had been in love since I saw them on Net-a-Porter at their full price of $795 - YIKES! Even before that blog post I had an eBay alert set up for months to find them. I finally found them in my size in November 2011 and splurged $400 (I think) on them. Still a crazy price to pay but every time I see them in my closet they bring me joy so I think it was worth it, even 9 years later.
They are brown and black leopard print calf hair sandals with a 6 inch heel and a 2 inch platform. Basically a dream for a short girl like me. I look SO TALL in them! Especially in super skinny jeans. I used to wear them once a week when I was working in an office but since I started working from home in 2014 they've been more of an art piece in my closet brought out for special occasions.
Shop them:
Here are some past outfits featuring my Miu Miu leopard sandals.
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| Say Goodbye Burgundy Leather Pants |
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| Revisiting October 29 2013 |
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| Revisiting May 9 2013 |
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| Clinton Crossing Spring Fashion Preview |
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| Movado and Lucky Magazine Arm Candy Party |
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| From the Boys |
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| Thanksgiving Number 2 |
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| Date Night |
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| Wild Thing |
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| Merry Little Stroll |
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| LuckyFABB Day 1 |
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| The Boyfriend |
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| The Fool on the Hill |
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| KARL for Net-a-Porter Launch |
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| Christmas Celebrations |
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| Pop of Leopard |
