Layering Sequin Stripes & Dots

Loft: Blouse, Ann Taylor: Top, Sweater Vest, Booties,  LC: Jeans

This outfit actually came together on its own. I purchased the dotted blouse a few years back and I just rediscovered it the other day. I had worn it on an interview to teach Computer Aided Drafting when I lived in Jersey. Teaching was always something I had been interested in doing and thankfully I got the job. {cross that off my bucket list}

These booties, sequin striped top and sweater vest were all recent purchases from Ann Taylor and they are quickly becoming my go to pieces. Add my favorite boyfriend jeans from LC and there you have it!

I really enjoy when a garment can conjure old memories... what do you wear that instantly brings you back?

DIY: Curling Wand

{source}

I have been looking for a curling wand for the longest time and just couldn't justify the difference in price. When I saw this tutorial there was definitely a sigh of relief and a why didn't I think of that moment. I bought this iron and am loving its transformation.

Splurge or Save: Bow Flats

When I go shopping I always say.. I have limits and standards. Limits to how much I'm willing to pay for something and standards with the quality of product I'm purchasing.  With that said I give you Splurge or Save.

Both flats have glittery bows, yet one is suede and the other is leather. Would you spend $250 on the Tory Burch or save $160 and get the Steve Maddens? {also DIY} Can you tell which is which?

Eating: Eggplant Parmesan

I LOVE eggplant and the fact that it's about 20 calories and 3 grams of fiber per cup makes it that much better! Eggplant is delicious grilled, fried, sautéd, baked, however you make it... I'll probably eat it. Last night I made Eggplant Parmesan and although I don't have a recipe for you I do have a few swaps that I think make it healthier. Come to think of it I never looked at a recipe for this meal I  just kinda made it.

1. I do fry the eggplant in coconut oil because of all of its healing qualities. Its has a great mild taste and makes your kitchen smell like a vacation. 

2. Instead of breadcrumbs  I use Fiber One {yes, the cereal} and at 60 calories and 14 Grams of Fiber per serving you'll be happy to make the switch. I take the cereal and put it in my food processor until it looks like... well crumbs. {I also use this on chicken but that's another time}

3. In place of marinara sauce that can have far too many calories and fat I use canned tomatoes. {I get petite diced} Did you know tomatoes are one of the few fruits foods that don't loose nutrients in the preservation process and at about 30 calories and 1.5 grams of fiber per serving why not. {sometimes I put in the food processor when I don't want it chunky}

4. Lastly I use cheese with part skim milk and only do a top layer to cut back on calories.

Hope you enjoyed these tips and would love to hear what you swap out to make your meals healthier.

Outfit: Peep Toe + Cape

Loft Cape, LC boyfriend Jeans, Ann Taylor Shoes

The weather here in Florida isn't as cold as up north but we did have a few cold days in a row last week. Once I saw this cape in a magazine I knew I had to have it for these cooler days. It is so comfortable and since its a sweater I can wear it casually or dressed up. {love that} These jeans are somewhat old. I got them when LC's {yes Lauren Conrad} line first came out in Kohl's and they were meant to be ankle length but since I am only 5'1" They were the perfect. {perfect petite length} They are still one of my favorite jeans. And lastly these booties you first saw here and I still love them so!!

What are you wearing with the cooler weather and are you diggin' the cape trend or not so much?