Pastel Party

[Insert Sigh Here]I'm SO relieved that it's the weekend! Aren't you? I'm also pretty happy to be relaxing at home with Netflix and a quiet apartment.
Does that make me sound old? I hope not!

I had a great time picking this week's Friday's Fancies pieces out. With weddings, showers, parties, and lots of fun warm weather activities coming up, this week's theme was perfect for brainstorming for one of those future outfits!

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Do you wear pastels? I am all about wearing the latest trendy pieces, but I think I like them better paired with something substantial...hence the black shoes and dark denim.
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Are you feeling fancy today? Be sure to check out the rest of the Friday's Fancies outfits and join in!

Patty Cakes

Alright ladies, it's finally here! No, I'm not just talking about Friday, I'm also talking about St. Patrick's Day 2012 [eve]! Appropriately, this week's Friday's Fancies theme is St. Patrick's Day.

On Tuesday I posted some cute outfit options to wear out to the local pub or to your neighborhood parade this weekend [see them here]. So, today's outfit is similar and can be worn on any weekend--holiday or not!

I picked a few items that can be mixed well to make other outfits. I also had to slip a few comfy pieces in since [for me, at least] St. Patty's day outfits are all day outfits!

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How cute is this skirt mixed with those earrings?
I love those earrings and definitely wouldn't mind owning them!
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Are you excited about tomorrow? I am beyond excited for this weekend because (almost) all of my favorite ladies are coming to town to celebrate!

P.s. Check out the rest of the Friday's Fancies outfits here!

Thrifty Tuesday [St. Patty]

Happy Tuesday evening ladies : ) Seeing as it's the week before St. Patrick's day, this week's Thrifty Tuesday will have you seeing green!

I've put together a few [affordable] St. Patrick's day outfits that are designed to be comfortable as well as cute! If you're anything like me, you'll need an outfit that you can wear all day long that can provide lasting stylish comfort! Also, if you're anywhere near TN (or anywhere in the US), then you know that the weather is absolutely unpredictable! 

[My biggest hold-up when it comes to picking my outfit for Saturday is not knowing what to expect from the weather!]

Back on topic....I put together a few outfits that would be great to wear to a variety of St. Patrick's day festivities! Most items are from Old Navy, so you could easily go out any buy any of these items!

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What are you ladies wearing for St. Patty's day? Any fun plans? Do share!

P.s. I'll most likely be rocking my green boots this Saturday [damn rain!]. Hope you have good luck with the weather this weekend, wherever you may be!

Wishful Thinking

I'm wearing a pair of pants very similar to these today.......

via

Except, they're paired with army green rain boots.
I wish I was rocking a cute pair of nude heels instead.
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I hope you're having a great Monday!

Friday's Fancies [SB'12]

This week's Friday's Fancies theme is Spring Break! While we all know I'm too [dare I say] old for spring break, it doesn't mean a girl can't dream! I have had my fair share of spring vacations to the beach that involve only swimsuits and coverups, so I decided on an outfit that is a little more put together.

One of my favorite parts about going on vacation is the chance to explore a new place. I love to spend a day wandering around a new city, learning what I can from the experience itself, and getting a feel for the local atmosphere. I also LOVE taking pictures, so taking some time to explore is the perfect adventure for me!

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This outfit is the perfect combination for a stroll around town! The fun scarf is actually useful (if you're chilly), and the cross body bag is good for staying out of the way while you're walking.

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What would you wear on Spring Break? Obviously, if I was vacationing in the warm weather I would pack a few swimsuits, a few fun dresses, some cute new patterned shorts, and sunscreen to go along with this outfit.

[Do you like vacationing where it's warm, or are you more of a snow bunny?]

Be sure to check out the rest of the FF outfits here!

Tangerine Tango

I may be a little late today, but it's better than never! I don't know how your day has been, but here's a little insight to mine: storms, strong winds, no electricity, large hail, leaving work early, and calls/texts with people who were also having weather issues or were checking up on us. It was crazy! I don't have a lot of experience with tornadoes, and I don't want to gain any either. I'm so glad that it's over now!
[If you were in an area with bad weather--I hope you're doing well now!]

Onto friendlier, brighter topics now.....today marks the best day of the week--Friday! Today's Friday's Fancies theme is Tangerine Tango.

First, a little education: Did you know that Pantone, the mother of color, picks a Color of The Year each year? Well, they do. And this year's color just happens to be
17-1463 Tangerine Tango.
[Hence the theme of Friday's Fancies this week!]

Not only is Tangerine an in color, but it's also perfect for spring!
It's fun, flirty, and bright--all the best things about Spring!

Shirt//Earrings//Blazer//Bracelet//Bag//Shorts//Shoes

Not only did I pull tangerine into this outfit with the jacket and the wedges, but I complimented the main color with another bright (that happens to be in the shoes, as well). I didn't want to over do it with the brights, so I used a few neutrals (purse and shirt), and navy to balance it all out. I would definitely wear this outfit out for a fun lunch date, or to an evening art hop around Nashville during the Spring
[I've been daydreaming about the next one]!
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Be sure to swing by and check out the rest of the Friday's Fancies posts [here]. And link up if you're feeling fancy!

Also, make sure you take a peek at Hollie's blog [here]. She does the best link-ups.....they're a great way to find some great new ladies//blogs!

Jet Set [Friday's Fancies]

With my trip to Florida this week, I'm right on track with {AV}'s Friday's Fancies theme--let's fly away! {AV} is teamed up with Elembee for one of her Let's Fly Away posts.

Because I'm already here, my destination of choice is Florida! Because most of us know that the state looks like this:

via

 I won't go too much into the destination part--hey, I can't help but want to post a cute outfit in the spirit of the usual Friday's Fancies post! So, here's my ideal vacation outfit!

Earrings, Bracelet, Watch, Shoes, Shorts, Shirt, Sunnies, Purse

I love a good crossbody bag for all of the walking [and to keep my hands/shoulders free for shopping bag carrying], as well as some cute and simple accessories. 

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Did you link up with {AV} today? I love the shorts in this outfit and would pretty much kill for them! I hope yo add a cute pair of patterned shorts to my wardrobe this summer. What do you want to add to your summer wardrobe??

Friday's Fancies [Red&Pink!]

Today's Friday's Fancies post is so [sassy] and [sweet]! {AV} decided on an outfit theme of Red & Pink for this week! With Valentine's day right around the corner, it was only natural for me to create this outfit with a date night or Valentine's themed get together in mind : )

Ruffle Blouse, Pink Opal Earrings, Stackable Band Rings, Black Prada Sunglasses,
Maison Boinet Double Wrap Belt, Black Mulberry Eveline Hobo,
J. Crew Neon Pink Pencil Skirt, Kelsi Dagger Tiffany Pumps

 Obviously, this outfit could be worn anywhere, but a date night or a girls night out would be a great way to work this look! I love the red and pink together and would wear it in a heartbeat! Would you mix such strong colors together? I say--why not?? Live a little : )

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Did you link up this week? If not, check out the rest of the outfits here [and join in if you're feeling fancy]!

Friday's Fancies [Spring Fever]

We made it through another week my friends! Aren't you excited about this weekend? I know we aren't the only area having some amazing weather lately, so this weekend will be even better than usual!

You know what else makes this weekend better? We're one week closer to Spring! I can't help but to look forward to brighter colors, fun and flirty clothes, and sandals!! All of which lead me to this week's Friday's Fancies theme--Spring Fever!

While I didn't create a complete outfit, I was beyond excited to pull together some items that will be perfect for this Spring! I have a feeling that we won't be able to get by without working coral, mint green and neon into our wardrobes (even if just with accessories)! If I could add a few of each of those color families, these are the items I would choose!

Coral Trench, Coral Purse, Coral&Pink Scarf, Coral Wedge // Mint Scarf, Mint Clutch, Mint Earrings
Mint Polish // Neon Sunnies, Neon Clutch, Neon Hunter Boots, Neon Blazer

What do you need to get your hands on before Spring gets here? Are you into brights or are you more of a floral print girl?

Be sure to check out the rest of the Friday's Fancies posts [here] and add your own if you're feeling fancy!

Thrifty Tuesday [Stripes]

If you read my post yesterday then you saw the striped Madewell shirt that I posted. I have to say, I'm obsessed with it right now! I have been loving some stripes lately so this week's Thrifty Tuesday post is dedicated to stripes!

Stripes are everywhere and there are a few different styles that have been catching my eye recently. Of course I love a classic striped boat neck shirt, but I also love a good striped
t-shirt to pair with jeans and a sweater or your favorite shorts in the summer. To be honest, I've never been the type to pull a striped shirt out of my closet to get dressed up.
BUT, I will have to say, with recent styles I might end up doing that more often come this Spring & Summer!

Here are a few striped shirt options to keep you in style, as well as inside of your budget!
[All under $25]

1. Dorthy Perkins Red/Cream Boat Neck $21 // 2. Old Navy Multi Stripe Tee $14 //
3. J.Crew Button-Back T-Shirt $17 // 4. FULL TILT Stripe Double Pocket Tee $20 //
5. Old Navy Slubknit Boatneck Top $13 // 6. FULL TILT Hi-Lo Womens Tank $19

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What styles are you loving lately? I hate to admit it, but I am really getting pumped for spring styles!

P.s. How do you like my new Thrifty Tuesday image?

Lust List [Madewell]

Alright ladies, I have to share something with you. I am not feeling like my usual, thrifty self these last few days. No-siree! I have been drooling over this new [to me] brand-Madewell. Everything they carry would fit perfectly into my fantasy closet!

 1.Dawnlight Silk Dress $158 / 2.The Suede Passenger Clutch $78 / 3.Golden Braid Bracelet $25 / 4.Minnetonka® Kilty Suede Moccasins $40 / 5.Clover Shorts $88  / 6.High Riser Colorpop Jeans $125 / 7.Striped Transmission Tee $48 / 8.Colorband Twirl Skirt $98 / 9.The Leopard-Print Sidewalk Skimmer $118 / 10.The Leather Transport Tote $168 / 11.Silk Intermission Top $88

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I know I can't be the only one lusting after things I can't allow myself to spend $$ on!

What have you had your eye on lately??

Hodge Podge Link Love

I had a chance to catch up on a lot of blogs over this past week, and I found some great stuff while I was at it! I thought I would share my favorites and give you a little hodge podge to check out over the weekend : )

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How cute/amazing/fun does this wedding look?

Big dreams take big efforts!

Another sweet wedding!

Super cute, super free 2012 calendars.

Some blogging tips, from all different angles.

How awesome is this closet?

Wouldn't all of these look good in your closet?

I have been obsessing over this type of print. I need a pair before this spring!

This will make you laugh...unless you already have one.

Some DIY fun (with jewelry).

More fun with colors, some super chic business cards.

Essentials for picking wine.

Have you heard about Jason Wu and Target teaming up?

This outfit, from here, makes me want to go on vacation. Stat.

This is the new background image on my iPhone. Here's another option.

One more cute wedding : )

Friday's Fancies-Blog Swap!

Today marks the end of the work week and the beginning of the weekend! Yup, Friday has arrived : ) This week's Friday's Fancies post is all about swapping. {AV} decided that this week's theme would be an outfit blog swap. We were each paired up with a fellow Friday's Fancies lover to get to know each other and create an outfit for one another. I was paired with the lovely Amanda from Pretty Little Things.

Here's Amanda's guest post and the outfit that she created for me!
[You can see the outfit that I created for her here!]

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Happy Friday, The Sweet Life readers!

I’m so happy to be here to grace Ashley’s sweet blog.

(See what I did there?)

Anyway, I’m Amanda.

 I blog over at Pretty Little Things about fashion, décor, trends, and little things from my life.

I guess you could call me a lifestyle blogger. Kinda exactly like Ashley! I mean we did pin the exact same mani and we both love Ryan Gosling, so basically we should be BFFs. Sound good, Ash? Can I call you Ash? Lol…

So thanks to miss {av}, we’ve been paired up for this week’s Friday’s Fancies blogswap. I took some time to get to know Ash’s little slice of the blogworld and create a little FF’s for her.

Sweater – Topshop, $76.00

Shirt – J. Crew, $29.50

Pants – Asos, $80.57

Necklace – Bauble Bar, $40

Earrings – Bauble Bar, $36

Boots – Charles David, $345

Clutch – Lauren Merkin, $495

Hope you like this look Ash! When I saw those hunter green skinnies and the leopard clutch,

I knew I wanted to use them in your outfit.

Well, thanks for giving me the chance to share my look! If you like what I pulled together, you can check out my other outfits here.

xoxo,
Amanda

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Isn't she sweet?? I love the outfit and would wear it in a heartbeat (and man do I want to get my hands on those skinnies)! Thanks Amanda! I can't wait to link up again in the future : )

Be sure to go check out her blog and show her some love!

P.s. Check out the rest of the Friday's Fancies posts here and join in if you're feeling fancy!

Friday's Fancies~Color Crush

Happy Friday! I did a little dance this morning because I was so excited about it being Friday [I kid you not]! One of the best parts of the day? Posting my Friday's Fancies outfit, of course. This week's theme is Color Crush. I had a really hard time picking out the pieces this week because I wasn't sure whether I should post what I want to wear, or what I actually do wear....so, since I love two colors equally I am going to include them BOTH. I'm living on the edge, this I know! : ) Brown is my go to choice and favorite color to wear--it's perfect with my hair and skin tone, but sometimes it can seem a little...bleh. So, to switch it up, I am going to post a few green pieces too! It's my second favorite color and I know I could stand to work a little more of it into my wardrobe.

1. Dana Ankle Tie Boot 2. VPL Cropped Dolman Sweater 3. Ralph Lauren Woven Leather Bag
4. BY MALENE BIRGER Tie Neck Top 5. Chloé Marcie Large Leather Hobo 6. Lanvin Belted Dress 7. Woolrich Gianna Cardigan 8. Jamie Joseph Green Onyx Earrings 9. Madewell Sidewalk Skimmer 



I crush hard on brown, but also always have my eye on green too! What's your color crush? Check out the rest of the awesome outfits at {long distance loving} and post your own if you're feeling fancy!

Thrifty Tuesday

Hey ladies! I know I can't be the only one who waited until the last minute to organize their holiday wardrobe choices, right? I've thought about outfit options a ton, but I never acted on any of them. Today I realized that with all of the attention I was giving my NYE outfit, I neglected to think about my Christmas Eve mass outfit. I decided today that I definitely don't have the right outfit, so I did a little monitor window shopping at lunch. As usual, I searched for a great dress at a [great price]! Here are the cute dresses I found....they're pretty affordable and great for last minute options!

With the exception of the belted cream dress (#2), all dresses are around or below $50.
Mass Dress by thesweetashleylife (<~~Click to see this set on Polyvore!)

1. Black spot pussybow dress $37
2. pepe Womens Evelyn Cream Tiered Dress $96
3. Green balloon sleeve dress $37
4. Belted A Line Dress By Rare $40
5. vila Womens Bunton Black & Cream Dress $47
6. Red Kaftan Dress $54
7. Brown bow front dress $35
8. Mocha polka dot ruffle dress $57
9. Dark Purple Cut Out Neck Long Sleeve Shift Dress $50
10. BLVD Seasons Change Dress $48

Wouldn't any of these options look great with tights and a cute pair of short black booties or a great pair of boots? I want one of each, please!

Thrifty Tuesday~Outerwear

I don't know about you, but the weather around here has been changing a lot lately! This past weekend was pretty warm, but yesterday and today have been super cold (again). While I don't exactly welcome the cooler temps and random spits of flurries, it IS nice to finally break out the warm coats, cozy scarfs and gloves! So, this week's thrifty Tuesday is all about cute outerwear--all for less than $50!

Funnel-Neck Cape Coat
Found here for $39.99

Bwear by Byer Belted Capelet
Found here for $39.99

Chime Double Breasted Coat
Found here for $39.99

Bwear by Byer Tweed Coat
Found here for $39.99



Novelty Button Military Coat
Found here for $39.99

Wool Coat
Found here for $47.00



Bwear by Byer Dbl Breasted
Found here for $39.99



XOXO Textured Dbl Breasted Coat
Found here for $39.99

 

Colorplay Winter Glove, Ruffle Tech
Found here for $18.99



Pins and Needles Pinwheel Knit Glove
Found here for $20.00

Tulle Clothing Glove of Your Life
Found here for $15.00

 

Heading Downtown Gloves
Found here for $20.00

 

Glove Story
Found here for $20.00

Camel Wavy Edge Scarf
Found here for $15.00

Rose/Cream Aztec Scarf
Found here for $17.00

H&M Scarf
Found here for $11.00

Cable Knit Scarf
Found here for $20.00

H&M Scarf
Found here for $16.00



Have you purchased any new outerwear this year? While I do have one good/quality coat, I love to switch it up every year, so I look for great deals on stylish pieces that I know I can switch around after each winter!

P.s. You can see more affordable scarfs [here]!

Currently

I'm too cold for my brain to function properly today! I have been keeping my hands warm by wrapping them around my coffee mug, but it's only helping while my cup is full....and if I drink another cup, I'll be bouncing off of the walls! No one wants that : ) So, I thought I'd share my currently list....I got the idea from Danielle on Sometimes Sweet.

Working on: Work stuff. And ideas for Christmas presents. Little kids are hard to figure out!

Thinking about: Moving. And seeing friends. And the future. I can’t wait to move closer to my job! The commute will be a million times better and I won’t be as stressed about that little part of my life. And I wish I could see my Louisville friends more. I really miss them, especially around this time of year. Can’t wait to see them again! Annnd the future...well, there’s so much to think about! I want to do so much with myself, but it’s hard to decide which direction to go!

Obsessing over: A spat that Ryan and I had this morning. I hate getting upset in the morning…especially at Ryan…especially when we’re apart for the whole day afterwards. I don’t feel like I can really get over it until I see him again and give him a hug or kiss. Boo.

Anticipating: The day that I don't freak out about the little things. I'm emotional about everything lots of things and I know it frustrates people. I try to stay cool (as cucumbers!), but it's not my style. Sigh. One day?

Listening to: Work noise. I should have my earbuds in playing Pandora, but I always forget to listen to it at work.

Drinking: Coffee. Gotta stay warm! Brrr.

Wishing:  It was 5 o'clock. Or Friday. I'd be happy with either : )

I also wish I was wearing this outfit today. It would improve my mood by, like, a million points. I wore something similar yesterday and it was perfect. I love sweaters and boots! Plus, they keep me warm : )

12/1/2011 by thesweetashleylife