Banana Republic Mad Men spring '12 collection

to add to my extreme excitement over the fact that Mad Men is finally returning this month {march 25th ~ mark your calendars!}, Banana Republic has once again collaborated with the show's costume designer, Janie Bryant, to create a new collection for spring 2012.

Simon Kneen, Banana Republic's creative director says, "spring delivers a whole new palette and gave us an excuse to draw from different scenes and wardrobe from the show as inspiration. Janie's perspective was invaluable in helping us create a collection that is both chic and modern, while remaining true to the aesthetic of the 1960s era."

everything from clothing to accessories is included in this 60's country club-inspired collection. the women's line features lovely color and floral prints in each lady-like piece: dresses nipped in at the waist, full and pencil skirts, capri pants and cardigans; the men's line offers pants, bold-color polo shirts, argyle vests and blazers.

the Mad Men collection is now available in stores and online at bananarepublic.com.

what do you think?

images courtesy of banana republic; source

(Very) Last Minute Gift Ideas

if you're among the many individuals who have had to put off holiday shopping for one reason or another or are procrastinating because it's just something you always do, here are my picks for last-minute shopping...





bareMinerals Happiness Collection-- this 9-piece set features mineral products infused with a mood-boosting plant-extract complex called Happybelle believed to mimic the effect of endorphins and induce a sense of happiness. even if that isn't true, the products in this kit will make any makeup-loving gal happy just the same.




Banana Republic Silk Blend Abstract Print Scarf is a a great gift for the woman in your life who is impossible to shop for. she may have a plethora of scarves, but hopefully not this one. :)




a journal like this one from Peter Pauper Press is a great way to encourage your recipient to keep track of the events or most important happenings in their life during 2010.




an iTunes gift card is always a great way to go for the music lover in your life. be as generous as you can-- they will definitely appreciate having new tunes to serenade them into the new year.

good luck & happy shopping for the holidays!

xo

I want this: Banana Republic Abstract Ruffle Wrap Dress

my love of dresses is something that gets noticed frequently. my neighbor commented the other day to her cousin that i "don't dress normal". i had to laugh of course-- how silly! i happened to be wearing what i thought was very normal: a jersey knit dress. what can i say, i can't help it. i love the ease of a dress, and how it always makes me look put together. it's also my only option, other than skirts, when it's hot. i'm not a fan of shorts, and capris or burmudas aren't too high on my clothing food-chain either (i believe these are what my neighbor would refer to as "normal" items of clothing, LOL!).

in any case, i am loving this Banana Republic's Abstract Ruffle Wrap Dress . it's light and airy looking, a bright shade of fuchsia (the color is described as red peony on the website), and has enough ruffles to keep it uber-feminine.

find this and many more dresses at bananarepublic.com

xo

what's your pet peeve?

pet peeves are little annoyances that can instill frustration or irratiation in an individual. some people have pet peeves about grammar. others complain about people who don't use turn signals while driving. you may be reading this irritated that i don't capitalize nouns. i do capitalize when neccesary, but i find that it is just easier for me to type this way. so, if it bothers you, i'm sorry. if you didn't notice before, you will now. :)

i personally have many pet peeves. one in particular peeve of mine is one i have to see everyday when i take my kids to school: moms in pajamas and/or wearing slippers. ugh...do these women have no time to at least throw on some jeans and a t-shirt? seriously, would it kill them to put on shoes? ewww, i don't even want to know what kind of germs are on those things...
it's not just the moms in the morning at the school, but around town in the middle of the day! big, baggy pajama pants, an old sweatshirt and...slippers!!

don't get me wrong, i understand the desire to be comfortable. but being dressed in clothes that should stay within the walls of your home? no.

so, here are some chic, yet comfortable, alternatives to the "pajamas in public" look:



banana republic --this dress is in a flattering wrap-style and the silk/cotton blend makes it oh-so comfy.


gap-- throw this fabulous wrap coat over simple jeans and a cami for a very pulled together look.



old navy-- this is what comfort should look like. the wedges make you look like you put in some effort...



banana republic-- these trouser style jeans are crisp and modern, the sweater is simple, and when accessorized with color--hello mama!



old navy-- jeans in color are so fun for spring. add a cotton ruffle top and sandals for the ultimate comfy style.


banana republic-- another chic look--no more excuses!!

xo