Displaying articles for: 03-01-2009 - 03-07-2009
Maybe it's because I don't like my feet. Or maybe it's because I really prefer to spend my summer days in flip-flops. Either way, you won't catch me in gladiator cage sandals - ever.
It seems the styling of the gladiator sandals run the spectrum of simple and cute - like this pair by Jessica Simpson - to the ultra complicated. Case in point? Let me introduce you to the Funtasma Roman 10. Can you really wear these and not be late getting to work?
Then there's the more traditional styles, that are typically darker in color, and are very Roman God-like. From my point of view, these styles are definite "no's" on my list, yet these are the styles that seems to be so popular. To me, I feel like all of them have way too much going on.
So here I defer to you - what is it about these that you love? Really, I want to understand the attraction. Can you put your finger on it? Is it because they're trendy? Comfortable? Or is it something you can't name?
Please, leave a comment and weigh in on the subject. I'm trying to objectively put together a list of top picks for gladiator sandals, and I'm having trouble overcoming my personal issues with the beloved style. What style did you buy? And where did you find it?
Why? Because you asked for them! And, of course, I aim to please.
So, what's my Top Sale Picks for this week? Check all 8 out.
1. The Body Shop Semi-Annual Skin Care Event :: we're talking about many products posted at "Buy 2 Get 1 Free," now through March 18th. Wise Woman, Seaweed, and Tea Tree are just a few examples. Take advantage of over 25 years of skin care experience, free standard shipping on orders over $60, and 4% in college savings.
2. Express :: a new partnership with Upromise means we can all take advantage of their sales, and save for college. Plus, right now, you cantake an additional 20% off sale items. Now is a great time to stock up for the warmer weather months (if they ever get here!) or get some new clothes for an upcoming vacation. Sizes are limited, but the sale is definitely worth a look. You can grab silk tapered cropped pants for $16 and bright, bold cami's for $8!
3. Benefit :: another new Upromise partner, they're offering 6% in college savings through March 28th. A San Francisco-based cosmetics company, their website is sassy and fun. Their sales page, labeled "buh-buys" is full of great products that are, sadly, not going to be around any longer. Load up on powders, silky eye shadows, and great pencils, all at an affordable price. And know that two free samples ship with every order - I love free samples!!
4.Old Navy :: an affordable fashion staple. Their clearance prices are unbeatable, and they're currently running their "Fundamentals Sale." Take
5. Chico's :: Take $20 off of any $80 order with coupon code 6450 through March 8th. Plus, they've got sale items at up to 50% off. I'm loving this bold Peace Ring for $15, as well as the Tidal Shore Necklace for $25. The Downtown Zoie Vest isn't half bad either.
6.The Children's Place :: Got kids? Take advantage of 15% off all purchases with coupon code SA29, through March 8th. Their spring lineup looks great with their signature bright colors! Not to mention, if you've think you've got the cutest baby in the land (and who doesn't feel that way??), enter him or her in the Babytalk & GMA Cover Contest.
7. Endless Shoes & Accessories :: Endless wants spring to arrive just as much as the rest of us. They'll take $25 off any spring shoe and handbag order over $125, now through March 9th. I'm loving these Simple Entire Peep Toe active ballet flats in blue and polka-dot.
8. American Eagle :: rounding out the week in sales, American Eagle will give you a second T for $10 - until March 10th - when you purchase one at regular price. Per the fine print, the T for $10 must be of equal or lesser value. And even if you don't go with the t-shirt sale, check out the AE Favorite Boyfriend Jean. Easy thru the hips, low in the rise, and relaxed through the leg, they flatter any figure; they're my favorite jeans ever.
Images Courtesy of Express
Boden :: Boden can sometimes be a bit pricey, but I guarantee you it's worth it. However, just window shopping on their site is enough to incite happy thoughts of warmer days and sunshine and fields of flowers and all those goodies - I browse their site like I browse the Anthropologie catalog. I love their colors. I love their presentation. I love their clothes. These are the items currently inspiring me.
**Gemstone Necklace** :: words cannot express how much I love this beautiful blend of glass and semi-precious stones; the hues of blues and yellows shouts "SPRING!" to me. This would be great paired with anything from a v-neck white t-shirt to a printed dress. Given an average 4.5 out of 5 star rating by Boden USA shoppers, I'd say it's a hit.
**Fab Animal Print Belt** :: animal print is back for spring, but in small doses. Cheetah print set against a solid background and trimmed out with bright patent leather - how can you go wrong?
**Jacquard Coat** :: a statement coat for sure and a splurge too, but a good one. I've always been an advocate of spending a little extra on some solid, quality pieces that will be in your wardrobe for some time to come. If you love the print, but are concerned about it being all over a jacket, you can also consider going with the skirt instead.
Old Navy :: always affordable, Old Navy is tough to beat - especially if you're looking for a few pieces that are a little more seasonal. Old Navy has trendy items that don't cost a fortune so, on the chance that you only wear them one season, you won't 
**Floral-Cutout Babydolls** :: lacy trim accents a deep v-neck and looks great layered under a short blazer-styled coat or with a pair of jeans or capris. Throw on some strappy sandals with this breezy top and you'll be ready for the beach in no time flat.
**Pointelle Shrug Cardigans** :: available in grey, black, and white, these lightweight cardigans are a great transitional piece. And since they're a very basic color, you don't run the risk of the running out of appeal.
**Trench Coats** :: they're back and better than ever. Whether you choose a solid or a print, Old Navy has Spring trenches at a very low, affordable price.
Ann Taylor Loft :: grown-up clothes that still look youthful; it's a 30-something's dream come true. They've got some delicious selections for Spring and great pricing to match. Another bonus of shopping at The Loft? If you're a teacher, you can participate in the Loft Loves Teachers Program to receive discounts on your shopping as well as earn gear for your classroom. My picks from The Loft?
**Floral Print Ruffle Front Button Top** :: soft and girly, I like this for a number of reasons. I don't necessarily know that it would look great on me, but there are women out there that this is fantastic for. Very feminine, very spring.
**Marisa Chino** :: I'm at a place in my life where I'm picky about my pants. And more often than not, if I'm going somewhere in public, I'm throwing on a trouser-styled pant in khaki or a dark denim jean; it's just more appropriate at this point. This flat front chino fits the bill perfectly. 6 colors means lots of options that are anything but bland.
**Stretch Wide Filagree Bracelt** :: bedazzle any outfit with this stretch braclet. Bold and wide, it makes a statement.
At the end of the day, I love shopping for spring clothes. I love throwing open my closet, purging the heavy sweaters (that several months ago I couldn't wait to unpack), and filling the hangers with bright colors and lots of prints. Winter can't last forever, so bring a little spring your way now.
Photos Courtesy of Boden USA & Old Navy
