The Best of 2016: My Top Five Purchases

TOP FIVE PURCHASES

1. These suede booties.  I got them in the dark red color; however, they really are more of a purple.  When I was out to dinner one night and saw a girl wearing them paired with black jeans and an off white sweater - I knew I wanted them.  When they went 60% off - I knew I wanted to get them.  I still can’t believe they have so many sizes in stock!

2. This sweater is 40% off - and I love the tan color.  It also comes in black.  It is under $30 and looks great paired with jeans and leopard shoes.

3. I am always cold and this is the warmest sweater.  The boucle texture makes it look so cozy. This is another cozy, soft sweater that I am so glad I bought.  It is another super warm sweater.  It is kind of the t-neck version of the other crewneck one.

4. This cardigan is one of my favorites.  It is under $50 - and perfect for layering.

5. I am a big Ohio State fan - and this sweater will be the perfect color combination to wear to watch the game.  It will look paired with high-waisted flare jeans and lace up booties.  Plus it is 50% off and under $30. It also comes in an off white.

And, I was just going to make this my top five, but when I got done I realized there are two other items I recently purchased that I really look forward to wearing/using.

This velvet bag and this purple/burgundy leather jacket.  I bought them both on an additional sale - and they were great bargains.  If you are looking for a buttery leather jacket or a fun cross-body bag - these are my top picks.

The Best of 2016: How to Style Winter Sweaters

SHOP THE LOOK

Moto Jacket: H&M // Jeans: H&M // Velvet Pump: Sam Edelman

Lipstick: MAC // Ring: Michael Kors

SHOP THE LOOK

Mustard Cardigan: Forever 21 (Only $33) // Bucket Bag: Nordstrom (Only $48)

Leopard Flats: Ivanka Trump (Under $100) // Skinny Jeans: Nordstrom (Only $35

SHOP THE LOOK

Plaid Shirt: Forever 21 (Only $20) // Snake Pumps: Nine West

Satchel: Nordstrom (Only $55) // Necklace: Nordstrom (Only $18)

SHOP THE LOOK

Booties: Nine West // Earrings: Nordstrom (Only $15) // Tote: Nordstrom (Only $48) (Also in Burgundy)

Ring: Bronzallure // Leopard Cardigan: J. Crew

I am participating in the following link-ups.

The Best of 2016: Layered, Plaid, and Leopard

SHOP THE LOOK

Plaid Shirt: H&M (Similar 40% off) // Sweater: H&M (Similar only $20)
Stackable Rings: Gorjana // Lip Stain: YSL

?extid=OR_US_SB_BG_BL_161201&cvosrc=sponsored bloggers.DAILYSTYLEFINDSBLOG_US.1216&cvo_campaign=OR_US_SB_BG_BL_161201

SHOP THE LOOK

Blouse: H&M (Only $20) // Sleeveless Sweater: H&M // Leopard Flats: Ivanka Trump

Chubby Stick: Clinique // Necklace: Nordstrom 

SHOP THE LOOK

Scarf: H&M (Only $24) // Watch: Michael Kors (Only $140)

Over the Knee Boots: Fashion Thirsty (Only $40) // Mini Satchel: ZAC Zac Posen

SHOP THE LOOK

Leopard Cardigan: Lands End ($50 off) // Necklace: Nordstrom (Only $10)

Satchel: Furla (50% off) // Ring: Swarovski (Only $45)

This necklace is only $10 (and free shipping both ways) and it looks just like the Kendra Scott one.

SHOP THE LOOK

Coat: H&M (Under $80) // Leopard Pumps: Ivanka Trump (52% off)
Tote: H&M (Only $25) // Jeans: H&M (shaping jeans under $50)

Another look back at the best of 2016 - some of my favorite looks that include layering, plaid, and leopard...

I am participating in the following link-ups.

The Best of 2016: How to Style Winter Boots

1. RIDING BOOTS & PLAID PONCHO
 Plaid Poncho: Nordstrom (Only $38) (Boucle option) // Boots: Sam Edelman
Jeans: Paige (Similar only $30) // Turtleneck: Halogen

2. OVER THE KNEE & BLANKET SCARF
 Scarf: ASOS // Turtleneck: Halogen // Jeans: 7 For All Mankind (As low as $59)
Boots: Steve Madden (As low as $69) // Watch: Michael Kors (Only $140)
Bag: ZAC Zac Posen (Similar here under $100)

3. TALL WEDGE BOOTS & LEOPARD

Sweater: Forever 21 (Similar here) // Jeans: Paige (Similar only $30)

Wedge Boots: Ann Taylor (Similar here) // Clutch: H&M (Only $10)

I found an almost identical dupe to my clutch and it is only $10!

4. LEATHER BOOTIES & SUEDE FRINGE
Sweater: Ann Taylor (Similar here only $20) // Jeans: Paige (Similar only $30)
Booties: Ann Taylor (Similar here 30% off) // Bag: Ann Taylor (Similar here only $18)

I found the almost identical mini bucket bag and it is only $18!

5. SUEDE BOOTIES & LEATHER JACKET

Jacket: Halogen (#NSale purchase) // Cami: Topshop

Jeans: 7 for All Mankind (Similar only $68)

Booties: Vince (Identical option here - 40% off) / Another under $80 option here)


I hope you had a wonderful Christmas!

I am sharing my most popular posts of 2016...

I am participating in the following link-ups.

Last Chance Gifts By Christmas with Free Shipping

LAST MINUTE GIFTS with Free Shipping

If you are still looking for some last minute gifts - here are some ideas.

1. This could make funny gift for an adult or something a kid would enjoy.  It made me laugh thinking of someone putting this on their desk at work - possibly conversation piece.

2. And, for those cat lovers - they would find this amusing (and probably true).  I loved the dog book from years ago - “Sorry I pooped in your shoe” - heartwarming letters from your dog.

3. This hot/cold beverage travel mug keeps beverages hot for 5 hours and cold for 12 hours.  It is only $15 and dishwasher safe.

4. This is the best smelling hairspray.   It has this musky fresh smell - that isn’t overpowering but you will smell all day long.  

5. This would be a perfect stocking stuffer for someone who loves to try different (great smelling) shampoos - this is my favorite shampoo and conditioner.  And, this is my close second favorite shampoo/conditioner! It has a wonderful beachy (but not overpowering) smell that lasts!

6. And, if you still need to wrap gifts - this looks like it would make beautifully designed packages (plus it would work for other holidays throughout the year, wedding or bridal/baby shower gifts).

 I am participating in the following link ups.
 

Winter Style & Last Minute Shopping Ideas

 SHOP THE LOOK

Burgundy Pleated Skirt (Another option) // Denim Shirt 

Gold Pumps // Leopard Bag (Almost option)

This is one of my favorite looks....

Are you still looking for gifts - I shared my top 10 picks (all with free shipping) - here and here.

FIVE MORE GIFT IDEAS with Free Shipping by Christmas
1. These fun jewelry trays - that are all under $20.

2. These stackable and cute rings - great selection - several under $20.

3. For the coffee (or tea) lover - these are fun and cute.

4. Velvet is the trend of the season - and these are the cutest booties and bags.  I keep thinking about buying this bag.

5. Leopard is one of my favorite patterns  - and this is the cutest pouch/clutch and it is only $30!  (Or this notebook or phone case are perfect, too.)

 I am participating in the following link ups.

Inspiration from Pink Peonies

Five More Last Minute Gift Ideas with Free Shipping

FIVE LAST MINUTE GIFT IDEAS under $25

1.  These sparkly earrings (which come in a set of 2) are under $10 - and would make a perfect stocking stuffer or addition to a  New Year’s Eve look.

2. This pendant necklace reminds me of the Kendra Scott one - but is only $10. And, this three tiered black/gold choker set (which is a huge trend) is really cool and only $19.

3. This longer, chunkier sweater comes in three perfect winter colors (and this burnt red color) - and is 40% (and under $25).

4. This plaid scarf and this one are under $15.

5. This chunky knit scarf (with tassels) is 40% off and comes in four great colors.  It looks so warm!

In case you missed it, I shared five last minute gift ideas yesterday, too.  The list included this necklace - which I love!  And, this sweater, which I have and like so much, I have debated buying it another color.

 I am participating in the following link ups.

Top Five Last Minute Gifts with Free Shipping

GIFT IDEAS

Are you looking for some last minute gift ideas or stocking stuffers for under $25 - I have found some great gifts.  And, they all ship for free and will be delivered by Christmas!

1. This would make a great stocking stuffer.  This cute initial necklace is 40% off.

2. This sweater comes in five different colors and is 40% off, too.

3. This scarf looks so cozy and it is under $10.

4.  A fun clutch or cross body bag in trendy velvet and it comes in two colors and is under %25.  It would be perfect for Christmas or New Year's Eve.

5.  If you are looking for a gift for a beauty buff - this brush set is 40% off and under 20% off or this sparkly nail polish set is only $17.

 I am participating in the following link ups.

Shaggy Fur Jacket & Cozy Red Sweater

SHOP THIS LOOK (original post here)
Jacket/Sweater // Top // Jeans
Necklace // Booties // Watch // Ring

SHOP THIS LOOK (original post here)
Sweater // Blouse // Watch
Bag // Necklace // Leopard Booties

These are two of my favorite looks. I love my shaggy purple jacket, and this one is so similar.  This shaggy one also looks so cozy and it is only $65!

MORE SHAGGY JACKETS

CHRISTMAS GIFT IDEAS

 And, if you are still shopping... 

TOP GIFTS FOR HER
Click here to see my top five picks for your best friend or sister. 

FUNNY GIFTS

If you are looking for some funny gifts (ones that will make everyone laugh), I shared some ideas here.

GIFTS FOR HIM

And, are you looking for some gift ideas for your husband, boyfriend, or dad, I shared some great gift ideas here.

FOR THE CHEF/BAKER

I shared my top five kitchen tools in this post - and they would all make great Christmas gifts.

GIFT UNDER $25

If you are looking for some gift exchange ideas or ideas for your boss or a stocking stuffers, I shared some ideas here.

TOP FIVE CHRISTMAS MOVIES

Lastly, my top five Christmas movie recommendations.

TOP 5 GIFTS HIM & HER

These great gift ideas - some under $10 for Him & Her. 

 I am participating in the following link ups.

Burgundy, Lace & Velvet for Parties of the Season

 SHOP THE LOOKS

1. Necklace: Madewell (30% off - under $40) // 2. Dress: Torn by Ronny Kobo

3. Necklace: What Goes Around Comes Around // 4. Bell Sleeve Top: Torn by Ronny Kobo

5. Velvet Jacket: Free People // 6. Lace Peplum Top: Alice + Olivia

7. Earrings: Kenneth Jay Lane // 8. Rings: Gorjana (30% off) // 9. Velvet Pumps: Alice + Olivia

Velvet is the trend of the season...
How classic and cute is that heart necklace or the crushed velvet jacket?

THREE GIFTS UNDER $10
Are you still looking for some gifts? Here are 3 ideas - all under $10 (and free shipping).

1. If you are looking for the funny gift - this made me laugh.

2. This popular ring is 40% off and only $7! (And, there are a couple letters left on this initial necklace that is only $6.)

3. This faux fur pom pom bag accessory is only $8.

One last thing - I am thinking about buying this velvet bag - what do you think?  What color would you choose?

 I am participating in the following link ups.

The Best 5 Gifts for Him & Her

TOP FIVE GIFTS FOR HER
1. This lipstick set would make the perfect gift. It has four different shades and is a great deal.  My regular lipstick costs just as much as this pack of four.  It comes in a more neutral color combo and a vibrant red/purple set.

2. This is one of my favorite lotions. Every time I wear it people comment how much they love it because it smells like the beach - it has a fresh-coconut smell.  Right now you can get a pack of four different lotions for a bargain deal - and this would also make a perfect stocking stuffer - or a gift exchange present.

3. These scarves are a great deal - this plaid one and this one are 40% off and only $15 each.

4. This sweater is 40% off and under $25 and it comes in three different colors!

5. This initial necklace is only $6 - and would make a great stocking stuffer.


TOP FIVE GIFTS FOR HIM
Put together a stylish look for your boyfriend, husband or even brother or dad.  Here are some great gift ideas…

1. Update your guys jeans - no more mom jeans or heavily stitched pocket jeans - and if he likes Levi’s you can get these updated jeans for a good deal or these that are under $40.

2. A basic wardrobe essential every guy needs, I think, is a nice 1/4 zip sweater.  It can be worn with jeans or dress pants - so perfect for business casual or weekend attire.

3. I like these boots on guys - they are little rugged - yet trendy (plus they are a great brand that both holds up and is comfortable) - and they are 35% off.

4. Layer a fun button down shirt under the 1/4 zip sweater like this one that is 35% off

5. A watch adds the final touch to any look - and this matte black one is sophisticated and fun - plus it is 25% off and under $100.

 I am participating in the following link ups.

My Top 3 Wish List Christmas Items

SHOP THE LOOK

1. Blouse: H&M (Only $15) // 2. Velvet Crossbody Bag: Rebecca Minkoff

3. Ring: David Yurman // 4. Leopard Coat: Topshop (Also here for 25% off - great deal!)
5. Ankle Wrap Heels: Nine West // 6. Pleated Skirt: H&M (Only $35)

An idea for what to wear to a Christmas party or even Christmas Eve. This crossbody bag is velvet and reminds me of this one but for a fraction of the cost.

MY TOP THREE "WISH LIST" ITEMS

If you could ask for anything you wanted for Christmas - what would be on your list? Here are the items that would be on my "extreme" wish list.  This year I have so much to be thankful for - and my Christmas will be complete without getting any of these items, which I would never expect to get; however, I thought it would be fun to share what would be on my "wish list".

1. This tote.  I have looked at it for a few years.   A lot of people want the heels but I want the bag. (Also, this bag is also on wish list. I bought a cheaper version - but it just isn't the same.)

2. These boots.  I keep waiting until someone makes them in a cheaper version. These are the new ones that have a lower heel and a pointed toe, which I really like, plus the color. (They are 40% off right now - which is a big savings!)

3. I bought one of these rings almost 20 years ago when they were really popular, and now their popularity is back but the styles have changed slightly.  So, this ring would be on my wish list today.


 I am participating in the following link ups.

The Best Desserts for a Christmas Party

Today,  I am participating in a progressive Christmas dinner with my friends at The Blended Blog. 

To start off the meal, there are Drinks with Whitney, then, Appetizers with Sheila and a Main Dish with Deena, and to finish off the meal, there are Desserts with me.  I am sharing my top three favorite desserts. These are yearly favorites at my house!

 CRANBERRY & PISTACHIO BISCOTTI

The Best Pot Roast Recipe

 I do not typically post on Monday's, but today, I am joining my friends at The Blended Blog in a recipe hop.  We are sharing some of our best recipes.  One of my favorite meals in the winter is pot roast.   It is so hearty and savory and the perfect cozy meal. I typically make creamy polenta and roasted vegetables to go along with it. 

Top Five Gift Ideas for Your Best Friend or Sister

 If you are shopping for your best friend or sister and need some ideas, I thought I would share my top five gift ideas for your best friend or sister. 

TOP FIVE GIFT IDEAS

1. JEWELRY under $25

If you are looking for something under $25 - these are a great option and they look just like the David Yurman rings.  Or these rings are would make the perfect stocking stuffer (and under $20)!

2. FUR

I love my fur vest in the winter.  It is an extra layer of warmth, and always make me feel a little more dressed up.  Your BFF or sister might love a fur vest or jacket - this short cropped vest - and this winter white one are my favorite.  Or, this rich burgundy faux fur jacket.

3. FRINGE & RUFFLE DETAILS

Fringe and ruffles are big trends this winter season.  One of these fringe sweaters would be the perfect trendy Christmas gift.  I especially like this fringe sweater by Scotch & Soda/Maison Scotch (also I think that name is kind of fun!). 

I always get compliments when I wear my ruffle sweater, and this one by Endless Rose is one of my favorites.

4. PLAID or CHARMED
I can't decide between these two - plaid scarf or bag charm.

I really like these plaid blanket scarves.  They are perfect winter plaids - and would be so cozy and stylish.

Or, these bag charms - like these fun ones.  Another option would be these cute pouches for your handbag- like this one with the flowers!  (And, if you want to splurge on a bag - these bags are one of my favorite - this particular bag has been on my wish list since I saw them - and now there is the fun fringe one.)

5. PAPER & PENS

For your bestie or sis that loves to write or keep a journal, I think these are so pretty!  Or, for your friend who is a planner or has big ideas/dreams.  And, a fun pen to write with. (And, if you are like me and always loose my pen in your bag, this organizing bag would be a perfect gift, too.)

Lastly, you might want to check out the 60% off sale.  Plus, everything ships for free (and returns for free, too) - so no risk.

SHOP THE "BEST FRIEND" JACKETS
And, aren't these the cutest jackets (the ones from the picture above)?

"BE FRI" Jacket // "ST END" Jacket

 I am participating in the following link ups.