7 Perfect Autumn Accessories Under $50

Originally, this post was going to be all spooky accessories. I know, I know! It’s a bit of a copout. But I couldn’t find any cute, creepy, spooky, but not cheesy and garish, accessories. A lot of the stuff I found was cute, but very Halloween and not something the average person would be able to wear day-to-day. Even in my job that has a very lax dress code, I would get some stares! 

However, I did find some super, super cute Fall accessories. Now, to me, accessories is everything from make up to scarves, so that’s what I put together. Let’s get started!

Fall Accessories by wiredphosphenes featuring chain jewelry

1. The Too Faced Just Peachy Mattes Palette, $45

Very few make up palettes have really gotten my attention the past few months. Everything is warm neutrals! Warm neutrals! Every new palette is just warm neutrals! And if a palette isn’t all warm neutrals, beauty gurus are only doing warm, neutral, orange-y brown looks. I’m so bored by warm neutral orange-y brown eye looks and palettes. I’m bored! Excite me!

This palette excites me. I know there are very mixed reviews about Too Faced eye shadows, but I personally love them and this palette is giving me such lovely fall vibes… I want it so bad. I love my Too Faced Sweet Peach Palette but sometimes I want some more matte shades, especially in the pink-purple family. This palette fits the bill beautifully. 

2. Fall Leaf Print Case, $40

I love clear phone cases. I know the big, Otterbox style ones protect your phone better, but I cannot stand how they feel in my hand. I love this simple, Fall leaf printed case. So pretty and affordable enough that when Winter comes along, you can just switch it out! 

3. Fenty Beauty Lip Gloss, $34

Listen, we’re all on top of Fenty right now. But have we talked about how universally pretty this lip gloss is? It looks good plain. It looks good over lipstick. It looks good on pale girls, on dark girls, on in-between girls. It looks good on everyone and it gives everyone the perfect rose-hued lips. Drop everything. Go and buy this lip gloss. You need it! 

4. L.L. Bean Wool-Blend Scarf, $50

Nothing beats a good Autumn scarf—and this one is really calling to me. I personally love plaid and I love a larger blanket scarf. This blue color will look lovely with a maroon or olive green sweater and jeans—or with a plain, sheath dress and jacket for a meeting. 

5. Ugg's Women's Cable Knit Socks, $39 

Last Christmas, everyone got me socks. They know me extremely well. These boot socks from Uggs are some of my favorite because they’re so warm and cozy, but they’re loose-knitted enough to fit over my calves (this is often a problem I have with socks). 

6. Leaf Charm Bracelet, $57

This bracelet reminds me of a fairy princess. It’s just whimsical and pretty enough to be special, but without being over the top. I love the color scheme. Please imagine it with a twee little dress (like this one) and knee high boots. So cute. 

When I originally made this list, this bracelet was in stock, but is currently sold out. Oops! Here are some similar bracelets: 1 and 2. 

7. Leaf Bracelet Stack, $7

This is definitely a little more boho than the other bracelet, which is why I included both. I love that it’s slightly rugged looking—almost like something a Mirkwood elf from Lord of the Rings would wear. I imagine it being paired with a cozy, oversized sweater (in mustard yellow) with distressed jeans rolled up over motorcycle boots. 

4 Easy Autumn Outfits Perfect for October

To really kick off blogtober, what better than to post some gorgeous Autumn outfits? 

The thing I look most forward to every year when it comes to Fall is finally being able to wear my flannel shirts, sweaters, and huge collection of boot socks every single day. It really doesn’t get better than that to me! I decided to round up some of my favorite Autumn outfits from around Polyvore to show off some of this year’s best trends. (And pssst, I made all of these ones!) 

1. Cozy Grandma

Grandma Autumn by wiredphosphenes featuring a white cami

The hippest grandma you’ve ever seen! I’m a sucker for a cozy cardigan and you can find ones like this for great prices at Maurices right now. Add in a flouncy floral skirt, an easy tank top or t-shirt, and your favorite oxford heels (I know these are a little 2012, but I still think they’re cute!). As it gets colder, you can add black tights, a heavier undershirt, and your favorite coat to keep the cuteness going. 

2. Colorblock & Jeans 

A Winter Day by wiredphosphenes featuring Kevyn Aucoin

This may be called A Winter Day, but it works for a breezy Fall day too. I love a color blocked sweatshirt; you can find similar ones here and here. Add in your favorite skinny jeans rolled up over some cute boots for a very punk 80s feel and you’ve got yourself a cute outfit for milling around the house, going out to lunch, or going to the pumpkin patch. 

3. Jumper Madness 

School Break by wiredphosphenes featuring Michael Kors

Listen: I love these overall skirts. I love them. I own two. That’s right: two. This one is originally from Topshop, but you can find a similar, all black one here. Add a cozy long sleeve (or a turtleneck!), some cute flats, and your favorite bag and you’ll rock that 1970s Autumnal university student vibe. 

4. Sweater Dress

Out and About in Autumn (3) by wiredphosphenes featuring Bobbi Brown Cosmetics

I’m obsessed with this sweater dress, but unfortunately, it’s sold out. I found some other, equally cute dress options here, here, and here, but none that really fall into that “chunky knit, baggy sweater dress in a perfect mustard yellow” niche. (But trust me when I say, watch this space, because I will find a better sweater dress option!) Pair with some cozy over-the-knee socks and your favorite pair of booties, and this is such a cute date outfit, it actually makes me want to plan an Autumn date ASAP. 

Do you have a favorite Autumn outfit? Share with me in the comments! 

5 Outfits for the 4th of July

I love writing these posts. You know why? Because I don’t really dress fashionably anymore, but I still pay attention to fashion. I use Polypore on my phone nearly every day, follow fashion and OOTD Instagram accounts, and closely monitor the big trends. I just don’t dress fashionably myself anymore: beyond t-shirts, jeans, and leggings, I don’t wear much fancy anymore. And when I do, it’s the same thing I always wear for fancy events. 

This is a very long way of saying: these posts allow me to share all the outfits I collect for when I have the time and energy to dress super fashionably again. 

At least I’m honest, right? 

For non-Americans, the 4th of July can feel a little confusing. It’s a pretty big holiday here and we tend to take it very seriously. It’s all about barbecues, fireworks, and dressing in red, white, and blue. As well, for most of the country, the 4th of July marks the true start of the summer: in Oregon, it’s usually rainy up until early July, so it’s either still rainy or our first warm day. (Not so true this year or the last few!) However, for most of the country, it’s swelteringly hot by July, so outfits have to include the colors of our flag, but also be designed for being super, duper sweaty. 

With that in mind, these are 5 outfits for some 4th of July inspiration. 

1. The Traditionalist 

Happy 4th of July (2016 Edition) by latoyacl featuring a red white and blue outfit

Plain and simple, this is a very classic 4th of July outfit and perfect for just about everyone. Whether you’re a single lady or a mom, it’s the perfect summer outfit. It’s also great for if you’re in an area where it isn’t very warm yet. Some cool jeans with a basic tank top, some on-trend sliders, and a cute bag and sunnies—it really doesn’t get more Americana. 

2. The Over-the-Top

4th of July party by songwriter333 featuring polka dot skirts

Do you love the 4th of July? Like, go to a parade, a fair, fireworks, every barbecue you can, the lake, and everywhere in between love? Then this is your outfit. It’s literal. A cute, breezy red top with a very traditional, A-line polka dot skirt screams old school American; combine with red-white-and-blue nail polish, a cute bracelet, and some star-shaped earrings, and you might as well be the parade. 

3. The Understated

Happy 4th of July! by waliflower featuring a tie handkerchief

If you don’t want to seem too, you know, into it, this is the perfect outfit. I also love the old school uniform vibe. A cute blue-and-white checked skirt with a slouchy-and-still-breezy button up top, red scarf and your favorite tennis shoes are perfect for a casual barbecue or going to watch the fireworks. 

4. The It-Is-So-Hot-I-Might-Die

Fourth of July- Fall Out Boy by charcharr featuring red glasses

Ok, so you’re not going for fashion. This is purely functional. Where you are, it’s hot. Like, step outside and feel like you’ve somehow gotten trapped underneath a huge iron hot. Cute shorts and a tank top are all that’s going to save you; add a cardigan for when the sun goes down and it starts to get cold. But otherwise, keep it simple with your hair up (those barrettes!), some scrappy sandals, and a cool bag. 

5. The Girly-Girl

4th of July Beach Rehearsal by modcloth featuring vintage style hats

If it’s hot where you are (like with the outfit above), this is another great option if you aren’t comfortable wearing short-shorts out everywhere. A cute, breezy, crocheted sundress, a big straw hat to protect that beautiful skin, and some scrappy sandals are juuuuuust patriotic enough to get by. Add some red earrings and maybe a blue necklace to complete the look. 

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5 Summer Accessories Under $20

I ran a poll recently on Twitter asking what post you wanted to see next: summer accessories, a Disney travel journal, or 4th of July outfits. Most people, it seemed, wanted summer accessories. 

My husband helped me with this by making (surprisingly helpful) suggestions. Without further ado, here are 5 practical, affordable accessories for this summer.

1. Flamingo pin, $3.50 from Maurices

I love flamingoes, so I'm really excited they're still on-trend this summer. This pin is perfect for sprucing up a plain t-shirt or tank top, or adding to a collection on your denim jacket, bag, or hat. Summery, sweet, and simple. And only $3.50!

2. Cactus Water Bottle, $11.50, from ASOS

Being hydrated is important year round, but this water bottle, at a hyper affordable $11.50, is perfect for the summer time. Over the past few months I've become obsessed with cactus print (as has the rest of the world) so this really hits the spot. 

3. Cross Body Bag, $18, from Forever 21

I love a cross body bag for vacations and this one is really perfect. It's big enough to carry a small wallet and your phone, plus sun screen, lip balm, and other accessories. But not so big that you feel like you're toting around half your house. It's available in 3 colors, but I love this dark, rusty red. At $18, it's the perfect price for the summer.  

4. Floral Baseball Hat, $12.50, from Maurices 

Baseball hats are in this summer. This one from Maurices is particularly cute. I'm a sucker for floral print, what can I say? And at $12.50, you can get in on the trend without committing to something more expensive. 

5. American Flag print iPhone case, $7.90, from Forever 21 

"Everyone needs a phone case," my husband said. He's not wrong. I love getting new, fun phone cases and Forever 21 always has so many options. I love this one for the 4th of July; it's cheeky, summery, and fun without being "bald eagle crying on a mountain top" over-the-top Americana. And at $7.90 you can throw a few others in your cart too. 

5 Casual Summer Outfits That Are Perfect for Vacation

It's June! That means summer has arrived and we're all anxiously looking forward to vacation (hopefully...) I know for me, my upcoming vacation felt like a Very Big Deal. I haven't talked about it much, but I've been working on losing weight the last few months; I've managed to shed over 15 pounds, as far as I can estimate, which is a big deal. I'm below my pre-pregnancy weight and I finally feel like clothes look like clothes on me again. 

For that reason, I ~splurged~ and actually bought three new shirts for my vacation. That's right, three shirts and a new pair of $10 Forever 21 jeans is a splurge these days. Oi vei. 

Here are 5 outfits that will be perfect for any summer holiday, regardless of where you're going. 

1. The Disney Outfit

Lifetime Pass to Disneyland by nonniekiss featuring black flats

The secret is out: I'm going to Disneyland for my vacation. What can I say? It's my favorite place. This is a perfect outfit for Disneyland: comfy top, comfy jeans, small purse. I don't recommend flip flops; your feet will kill at the end of the day, but some cushioned Vans or sneakers would look cute too. Cool, casual, totally easy. 

2. The Tropical Outfit

Summer Outfit by eternalsonata featuring a sleeveless dress

If you're the lucky soul who gets to go somewhere sandy and sunny for vacation, well then, this is the outfit for you. A pretty patterned dress will keep you cool and will look great over your bikini. Interesting sandals, sunglasses, and a simply lipstick will mean good Instagram photos. 

3. The Road Trip Outfit

~Oh I miss those days as the years go by~ by maloops featuring flower jewelry

You're going to be in the car, on the move, for a long period of time. Comfy jeans, a pretty hat, and a loose top are perfect. A patterned top is perfect for the car because, if you're like me, you'll spill something on yourself inevitably (or, um, your toddler will launch a juice into the front seat). Comfy flats and simple accessories mean you'll look cute along the way too. 

4. The Explorer Outfit

Dusty Books by kearalachelle featuring a leather satchel

So you're going to your dream city: Austin, Texas, or New York City, or Los Angeles. This outfit is for you. Comfy, cool, and very hip, you'll fit in. A cute patterned dress, a comfy cardigan (because I always like to have my arms covered), a roomy bag, and some quirky shoes. 

5. The Stay-Cation Outfit

Grunge by avonsblessing94 featuring high heel platform shoes

You're harumphing through this post because, harumph, you don't get to go on vacation! Don't worry; this is my first summer vacation in, seriously, six or seven years. If you're staying at home, or maybe just traveling to visit family, you can still get a special outfit. This outfit is perfect for staying at home, going out on the town, or visiting family: a simple, tank top dress topped with your favorite cozy flannel and paired with some killer boots (if you're feeling a little gothy) or some plain black flats or sandals (if you're not feeling so gothy). 

Refresh Your Workout Wardrobe This Spring

My husband and I recently rejoined the gym. If you read my blog(s) (um, this one or the one before, or the one before that), you probably know that, until I got pregnant, I worked out nearly every day. At least 5 times a week for sure. I love working out, but once I had Forrest, it became really challenging. 

Going back to a gym routine lately has been so much fun. On the downside, however, all my work out clothes are from pre-pregnancy. Can you see where I'm going with this? 

It's a sad situation right now. Especially the sports bra situation. So let's look at some options for refreshing our spring workout wardrobes. 

1. Sports Bras

Nike Pro-classic in Black/White / Good Vibes High Neck Sports Bra from GOOP / Women's Studio Bra in Sapphire Poppy. 

Sports bras are always a challenge. Hopefully I'm not alone in this. Everyone has a particular style they favor and a particular fit they like. I picked three different types: a very traditional sports bra (the Nike); a cute-almost-crop-top sports bra; and a high-backed sports bra with lower sides. All three are super cute and not super expensive. 

2. Tops

Inhale/Exhale Top / Rodeo Rags Tank Top / World's Okayest Runner. 

Athletic tops are one of those things that I believe are inherently a little scammy, right? You can wear just about any shirt to workout in, as long as you're comfortable. I prefer loose fitting tank tops, so I picked three cute ones for your enjoyment (I'm loving the World's Okayest Runner tank). In general, I buy my workout tops at Forever 21 or Target: wherever I can get some affordable that I'm totally ok getting covered in sweat. 

3. Leggings

Aerie Chill Jogger / Nike Workout Pants / gFast Performance Colorblock Leggings

Honestly, I could spent the rest of my life in athletic leggings and be absolutely fine. Also, if I ever become magically super wealthy, I will just buy hundreds of pairs of the best leggings I can find. I love them. My favorite workout leggings are from Aerie and they unfortunately don't make them anymore (grumble), but these "chill joggers" look super comfy for workouts and for lounge. If you're more a traditionalist, the black Nike workout pants are classic and the GAP leggings are perfect for late Spring/early Summer runs outside. 

Just a Little Spring-to-Summer Outfit Inspiration

If you follow me on Twitter, you probably noticed I had a small blogging crisis the other night. I've been struggling to feel motivated regarding my blog lately... and then I start to panic about what I'm doing, whether what I'm doing opens me up to criticism I'm not sure I can handle, and if what I'm doing is safe for my son. I don't talk about Forrest very much anymore and I'm very careful about the photos I post about him now, especially on Instagram and Twitter. But opening yourself up can be challenging. I love blogging and it is very hard for me to separate my life as I know it from my blog... because blogging is so much a part of my identity. 

I guess what I'm saying is: thank you for the messages I received, the notes of love for my blog. It really helps me feel like what I'm doing has some kind of purpose (even if it is just bringing a small piece of joy to other people) and I feel more comfortable with what I've shared so far. 

Anyway, whenever I'm feeling a little down about my blog, I try to go to some of my "easier" post ideas. I wanted to share some of the pretty Polyvore sets I've been liking for that spring-to-summer transition. If you follow me Instagram, you know I've been working out a lot and eating healthy. I have finally (FINALLY!) after nearly 5 years of struggling started to lose weight; I think I just found the right balance and motivation. So I'm excited for summer, obviously. 

Here are a few outfits to get you inspired too. 

1. Neutral

No 369:Cute Spring Cardis (On Top of Top Set) by lovepastel featuring square glasses

I'm feeling extremely covetous of that little lace top, but for now, it's outside of my current confidence zone. That being said, the blush-tan neutral is a great way to transition a winter wardrobe to spring and then to summer--and these items are particularly work appropriate. 

2. That floral

Spring by duma-duma featuring a sun hat

If you know me, you know I love a floral--and I'm particularly loving the lush, vivid florals we are seeing lately! The bold print of this shirt dress would be perfect for the office (with some leggings or tights, of course) topped with a blazer; and then you could also wear it to the 4 million weddings and graduation parties we are all attending in the next few months. 

3. Day-glo

Spring in Mexico by karineminzonwilson featuring wall home decor

I'm normally NOT a neon fan, but when I saw this set, I actually looked at this dress and seriously considered buying it. It is gorgeous, right? I love a Peter Pan collar and I love a floral, but this dress is unlike any I've ever really seen. Combined with some funky sunglasses, it's another great graduation party option--just remember to slather on the sunscreen because in an outfit at bright as this, you're gonna need some sun protection. 

4. Striped Preppy Classics

Spring by genesis129 featuring outdoor decor

Again, not confident enough to high-waisted short shorts at this point in my life, but I'm really loving the bomber jacket and letterman jacket trend. This one is particularly cute (and comfy looking). Paired with a striped top and jeans, it would be perfect for a casual weekend day or even a more casual workplace. Plus, you'll stay warm in the air conditioning that I know is torturing most women in office buildings right now. 

5. For vacation

summer dress by monykhaled featuring Luminess Air

I'm actually looking for a dress like this for my vacation this summer. I love blush pink, but it does wash me out a bit. However, I also love the off-the-shoulder look (I know) and this dresses silhouette is particularly flattering. Paired with a strappy sandal and a little bag, it's perfect for a fancy dinner at home or on vacation. 

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5 Absolutely Affordable Spring Dresses

Is this annoying? When bloggers start posts with things like, "ooof, it's been a hard week"? And it's only... Wednesday? That's how I wanted to start this post. I'm typing up this post, that I've had ready, at 6:45 in the morning, while Forrest sleeps after waking up at 4am. Remember how I had the flu in March? I heavily suspect he now has the flu. (This is where, if we were speaking in person, I would groan loudly and without end.) 

Anyway, at least the little sick man is giving me a chance to type something up, even if it's... a shopping inspiration post. I always have conflicted feelings when posting things like this, because the emphasis on shopping in blogging makes me quite uncomfortable. That being said, however, we all need a little wardrobe update from time-to-time, especially after the long winter days. 

And you know what? Looking at dresses is fun. So here are 5 absolutely affordable (yes, affordable!) spring dresses. 

1. Contemporary Open-Shoulder Dress, Forever 21 - $17.90

We'll start with the most affordable. $17.90 for a t-shirt dress is still a little on the "hmmm" side for me, but it's still less than $20. Also, this dress is super cute and would be appropriate for almost every body type. And hey, if you don't like the sack look, a cute belt would nip it in at the waist. I normally don't like the "cold shoulder" look, but for spring, it's starting to grow on me. For a day look, top with a leather jacket and maybe some leggings, if you're in a colder climate. 

2. Palm and Collected A-Line Dress, ModCloth - $79.99

I can see the look you're giving me right now. "Michelle," you say, "I thought you said affordable." Ok, maybe $79.99 isn't super affordable for some people. For me, it would totally be a splurge. But... look how cute this dress is. It's so cute! It's appropriate for the office AND a party AND you can wear it into summer. And, hear me out, I think you could even take it into Fall. This is a Long Haul Dress because it's got sleeves, a lower hem, a cute print, a practical style... C'mon. $79.99 is a steal if you wear this dress once a week for a year. Also, consider it with a cute pair of kitten heels and a light cardigan at a barbecue. I think I've made my point. 

3. Angie Shirt Dress, Nordstrom Rack - $24.97

Look at this cute print! The minute I saw it, I knew it would be perfect for this post: it's cute, it's affordable, and it has SLEEVES. Is anyone else perma-cold in Spring? As the weather gets nicer, it feels like everyone turns on the air conditioning unnecessarily and I end up just as bundled up as during winter! Shirt dresses are universally flattering and I personally love a rolled up sleeve on a dress. With sandals or pumps (or even tights and boots during winter), this is really another long haul dress at a killer price. 

4. Contemporary Floral Print Dress, Forever 21 - $19.53 (Sale)

I really, really love the pajama look top of this dress. I think it's casual and interesting. This is another dress that you can definitely make work for every season, but feels especially appropriate for spring--when the weather can still be chilly and wet, but can unexpectedly turn into a beautiful day. Plus, at a little over $19, it's super affordable and the shirt dress style is, again, flattering on every body type. 

5. Bookmaking Brunch Dress in Roses, ModCloth - $69.99

I know, $69.99... but please see #2 above. Also, look how cute this dress is! The a-line skirt, the nipped in waist, the neckline. Perfect for a spring or summer wedding, or with a jacket at work, paired with some white or nude stacked heels. Are you on board? Good, because I'm already on board. I love a vintage rose print and this one is absolutely stunning. 

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