Now that we’re entering the hottest part of summer, dressing for work is a real downer. (Well, for most people anyway—my commute involves walking from my bedroom to my home office. But trust me, I remember what it was like to try to look professional while avoiding a heatstroke on the way to the office. And that memory is not fond.)

If the mere thought of walking to your car, the train or subway cloaked in your typical office garb makes you long to call in sick and camp out in front of the air conditioner, you need an easy solution. Enter the lightweight blazer. With its flattering, structured look, a basic blazer can add polish to the light sundresses you live in during the weekends.

Of course, we’re talking work, so there are rules to be followed. Strapless and halter-style dresses are out. You’ll also want to stay away from anything too short or sheer, for obvious reasons. And you should never under any circumstances work the sundress-and-blazer look with flip flops or casual sandals. Pairing the look with a simple, subdued and sleek heel or flat in a neutral hue will elevate the look.

I’ve put together a few easy looks to get you started—all of which feature blazers that are less than $40! With these rules in mind, you’ll be on your way to a cooler summer work week, and you’ll get much more weekday wear out of your favorite weekend dresses than you ever thought possible.

A light, airy slipdress makes for an effortless pairing with a blazer—as long as the dress in no way resembles lingerie. This knee-length silk and linen cami dress has a floral print that is summery without channeling the full-out loud Hawaiian print. And this seersucker boyfriend blazer from Spiegel (now on sale for less than $40!) is just the fit you need for a blazer: It’s structured and single breasted. With its snug sleeves and high armholes, it’s tailored to perfection. To finish the look, these Cole Haan slingbacks are ideal. They not only dress up the look and give you legs for days, but they also boast concealed Nike AIR technology. Hello, comfortable heel—where have you been all of my life?

1. Classic Cami Dress, Tucker (piperlime.com).
2. Signature Stretch Seersucker Collection Boyfriend Blazer in Black Multi, Spiegel (spiegel.com).
3. Air Renfrow Sling, Maria Sharapova by Cole Haan (piperlime.com).

This retro-inspired silk dress from Banana Republic is the type of dress that you’ll want to wear every day this summer. Couple it with a pair of strappy flat sandals, and you’re ready for a garden party. Toss a structured, single-breasted linen blazer on top, and you’ve got a cool way to mellow out the grass-green print of this dress when you’re on the clock. And these shoes—oh, the shoes! These round-toe pumps breath like sandals but are dressy enough for work.

1. Silk Garden Party Dress in Amarijiwo Green, Banana Republic (bananarepublic.com).
2. Signature Washed Linen Collection Girlfriend Blazer in Neutral, Spiegel (spiegel.com).
3. Sachi Pump, Miz Mooz (piperlime.com).

With a dress that has a bit of billowy, retro-inspired poof, you need a blazer that will give your top some shape and balance out the swingy fluff of the dress. The mix of proportions in this look has an effortless appeal. Plus, the seersucker boyfriend blazer provides a nice menswear counterbalance to a dress that could otherwise be too girly for the office. And aren’t these oxfords just the perfect work flats? They’re not as expected as your go-to embellished flats, and they are a playful play on the men’s suiting standard.

1. Floral Empire Tank Dress, Gap (gap.com).
2. Signature Stretch Seersucker Collection Boyfriend Blazer in Neutral Multi, Spiegel (spiegel.com).
3. Cassi Oxford, Pour La Victoire (piperlime.com).

(Images: Elizabeth Ulrich)

In celebration of my 100th blog post here at Extrabux (which almost slipped by without my notice last week—you can read my very first post here), I thought we could celebrate with a virtual picnic in the park. Want to join me? I made sure to save you a spot on my picnic blanket.

How will you find me? I’ll be the one lazing contently with a book while wearing this festive yet entirely unfussy look. You see, I’ve chosen my outfit carefully for our little get-together. Don’t you love the ease of cargo shorts and flats with a girlie top? I’ve chosen pieces sure to become the summer staples that you’ll wear out before summer’s end—they’re just that versatile. So tell me, how will I spot you on our virtual picnic? What is your favorite casual, warm-weather party look?

Clockwise from top left:

1. Stackable Rings, Gorjana (piperlime.com): A cocktail ring can feel a bit too precious at laid-back parties. But this stackable set of textured rings? Just the perfect amount of sparkle.

2. Printed Silk Camisole, Aqua (bloomingdales.com): The print of this lightweight silk top calls to mind stained glass and butterfly wings. Dress it down with distressed cargo shorts for day, and then pair it with skinny jeans and heels after dark.

3. Benji’s Linen Cargo Shorts, Free People (piperlime.com): Cargo shorts in lightweight linen are irrefutably comfortable and slightly crumpled to perfection. This mocha-colored version from Free People is the ideal counterbalance to a feminine top.

4. Tomboy Jean Jacket, 7 for All Mankind: Balance out the sweetness of a bejeweled necklace and a silky top with a fitted jean jacket, which you’re destined to reach for on cool summer nights and wear (and wear and wear) once the warm months say their goodbyes.

5. Wreath Pendant Necklace, Banana Republic (bananarepublic.com): Would you believe me if I said that this prized piece is less than $30?

6. Happy Trails Messenger, Lucky Brand (piperlime.com): This is the cross-body bag that you can take almost anywhere. Its durable canvas makes it ideal for weekend jaunts, but its styling elevates it above outdoorsy.

7. Toffee Espadrille in Orange, Mia (piperlime.com): In the summer, I’m too blissfully busy to be bothered with teetering around town in any kind of heel or wedge. Between the woven raffia detailing and sherbet-colored canvas of these espadrilles, I think I’ve found my summer love.

8. Basic Leather Belt, Old Navy (oldnavy.com): Every girl needs a classic belt, and at a smidge more than $15, this one certainly fits the bill.

We’re inching our way toward summer, which means it’s prime season for graduation gift shopping. Have you decided what to buy for your favorite graduates? Looking back on my many graduations (high school, college, grad school), there are two types of gifts that stood out: the big-ticket items (like my first laptop—thanks, mom!) and the practical items (think towels, iron, coffee maker—things I never thought to ask for but needed desperately at the age of 18).

Whether you know a high schooler contemplating a summer abroad or a college grad looking for his first real salaried job, I’ve put together a list of basics that any wide-eyed graduate needs when stepping out into the real world.

A thrifty bonus: These gifts start at less than $10. (So those of you who received a handful of graduation invitations can now breathe a collective sigh of relief.) Well, let’s get started, shall we? I’d hate for you to miss the Pomp and Circumstance.

1. and 4. Basic Blazers: Interviewing for your first dream job is frightening enough. Fretting about what to wear—well, that’s just unnecessary. This boyfriend jacket from Ann Taylor would look equally chic when paired with a tasteful dress, pencil skirt or skinny trousers. And this twill two-button blazer from Banana Republic for him? Perfect with slacks or khakis. Plus, if a grad’s style and sizing elude you, these stores are ideal for grad gift cards. That way, you’ll increase the odds that your graduate will spend wisely on professional basics (rather than, say, a swimsuit and flip flops for summer vacation). Silk Crepe Stretch Boyfriend Jacket, Ann Taylor (anntaylor.com) and Twill Two-Button Blazer, Banana Republic (bananarepublic.com).

2. and 3. Backpack Upgrade: What good is a new suit if the recent graduate in question is schlepping to work with his or her old, ratty backpack in tow? A chic, professional briefcase or bag falls into the category of “things new professionals rarely buy for themselves.” This creamy, embossed cowhide computer tote from Kate Spade is a timeless and oh-so-generous gift that she’ll carry from her first day on the job until long after her big promotion. And, when it comes to his first briefcase, this Marc by Marc Jacobs studded leather messenger bag is stylish enough to impress the boss and manly enough to wean your grad off his much-loved backpack. Tarrytown Lou Bag, Kate Spade (katespade.com) and Studded Leather Messenger Bag, Marc by Marc Jacobs (saks.com).

5. Bookworm’s Dream: Know a graduate who will be moving out of the house or dorm with a trunk-load of books? Give her a digital library that’s small enough to fit in her first postage-stamp-sized place—no attic storage at mom and dad’s required. Kindle, Amazon (amazon.com).

6. Stay in Touch: All that post-graduation freedom can be downright scary (for parents, you know). Keep the apron strings a bit more in tact with a phone you know your grad will use to call home—among other things. 8GB iPhone 3G, Apple.

7. The Ultimate Digital Camera: If you’re looking to put a perma-grin on the face of a budding photographer, spring for the Olympus E-620 Digital SLR Camera, one of the smallest and lightest image-stabilized digital SLR cameras on the market. E-620 Digital SLR Camera, Olympus.

1. Luggage Starter Kit: Those attending an out-of-state school will be jetsetting between college and their hometowns on the regular. Why not upgrade their mismatched duffle bags and backpacks with a few key, quality pieces of luggage that they can build upon through the years? Briana Spinning Suitcase, Liz Claiborne (macys.com).

2. Smart City Guide: Know a grad who will be backpacking through Europe? Give him a set of smart city guides. Once you know his itinerary, pick up a few of these pocket-sized Moleskine City Notebooks, which feature street maps, city metro stations and plenty of blank pages for jotting down thoughts about each city. City Notebooks, Moleskine.

3. Passport Approved: These colorful passport covers from Jack Georges are bright enough to be spotted easily inside a young traveler’s bag. If you’re feeling extra generous, tuck some money into the gift to cover the price of the passport. Passport Cover, Jack Georges.

4. Roadside Assistance: If you don’t want to spring for AAA membership for your graduate, opt for this fully stocked Emergency Roadside Kit, which includes everything from jumper cables to a reflective hazard sign. Emergency Roadside Kit, Picnic Time (organize.com).

5. Road Trip Ready: How fondly do you look upon your first cross-country road trip? The Rand McNally Atlas is a best-seller for a reason: It’s detailed, up-to-date and includes info on festivals and events throughout North America. 2011 Road Atlas and Festival Guide, Rand McNally.

6. Armchair Traveler: Even if you can’t afford to send your favorite grad abroad this summer, inspire him or her to think globally. The Travel Book from Lonely Planet includes text and photos of every country in the world along with cultural insights, facts and maps. The Travel Book, Lonely Planet.

I need a purse that I can sling on my shoulder. If my bag is not somehow attached to my body, who knows what will happen to it? Well, actually, I do know. I’ll lose it. I’ll leave it on restaurant tables, coffee shop counters and anywhere else my hands deem fit to relieve themselves of the responsibility.

That being said, you can see why I’ve always been a diehard shoulder-bag carrier. If there isn’t something bulky, heavy and typically colorful hanging from my shoulder, I feel naked. But, in light of the chain-strap bag trend, I’m starting to reconsider the big, old unwieldy purse part. Tell me, how darn cute are these bags?

They’re the perfect out-and-about purses. Many of them are ideal for crossbody use, which makes them all the more simple and accessible. So, let us count the ways in which we adore them, shall we? Well, the chains add a nice glinty spark to your look without hiding your outfit. Plus, these purses are much smaller than your average shoulder bag, which means no neck pain or awkward leaning.

They’re also sized just right for your essentials (phone, wallet, lip gloss, etc.)—no over-packing or mess-making allowed. And, if you’re going out, you don’t have to worry about leaving it on a table, fighting with it on the dance floor or wrestling with it as you enjoy your cocktail. And, finally, because the crossbody, chain-strap bag is so hot right now, there a plenty of pretties to choose from.

My faves, clockwise starting from the top left, are:

1. Little Bag Blue: This leather bag’s turquoise hue may be sweet, but the pyramid studs definitely lend a good dose of rocker edge. Runaway Simone, Tylie Malibu (eBags.com).

2. The Gun(metal) Show: This crossbody purse is very tribal-meets-rock-and-roll. Can’t you picture this bag paired with a very girlie dress or sweet floral tank? Picadillly Crossbody Bag, Carlos by Carlos Santana (macys.com).

3. Not Your Granny’s Quilted Purse: I still can’t decide how to categorize this purse. It’s quilted, which is oh-so-traditional. But the studs rough it up, and the tassels make it feel a bit boho. Whatever it is, I love it. Quilting Bee Crossbody Bag, Rachel Rachel Roy (macys.com).

4. The Essential Everyday Bag: With its brown leather trim, this bag has a masculine feel—one that calls to mind the look of a vintage case for a camera or pair of binoculars. How perfect would it be for your daily city adventures? Mini Crossbody Bag, Junior Drake (nordstrom.com).

5. Chic and Simple: Kate Spade knows how to make understated look so luxe and gorgeous. This goathide bag, which reminds me of the frothy foam on top of an espresso, is timeless and can be dressed up or down with ease. Villa Bridget, Kate Spade.

(Image: Elizabeth Ulrich for Extrabux.com)

Motherhood may be rewarding, but it sure isn’t glamorous. Of course, I don’t have firsthand experience of exactly how unglamorous being a mom can be. But let’s just say that as a child (and admittedly as an adult, too), my cringe-worthy shenanigans have caused my mother plenty of embarrassment, exhaustion and general anxiety.

When it comes to choosing a gift for Mother’s Day—which is still this Sunday, in case it’s slipped your mind since my last post—why not give your mom something a little glam? While spa days, pedicures and the like are often sweet treats for an overworked mommy dearest, I’ve put together a list of luxe Mother’s Day presents that your mother may not always buy for herself. After all, every woman deserves to feel gorgeous—even while doing the laundry, burping babies and keeping the whole family in line.

Today’s guide features the little indulgences that make the more stressful days of motherhood a bit more special. And, mom or not, there is no better way to transport from blah to fabulous than with a genius beauty product or a stylish new wardrobe addition.

When wrestling a packed schedule, a shiny calfskin organizer makes the most mundane calendar-keeping feel chic. With a buttery, suede-like bag on her arm or a colorful scarf around her neck, mom’s errands are a smidge less tortuous. And a spritz of her signature scent or a swipe of luminizing powder on her cheeks? Amazingly transformative.

Without further ado (you don’t have much time to put in your order!), your posh Mother’s Day shopping list:

1. Jane Street Large Debra Organizer, Kate Spade (katespade.com).
2. African Cotton Scarf, Banana Republic (bananarepublic.com).
3. Flowerbomb Perfume, Viktor & Rolf.
4. Peacock Stud Earrings, Juicy Couture.
5. Meteorites Powder for the Face, Guerlain (sephora.com).
6. Lupe Bag, Pink Studio (piperlime.com).

(Photo: tsuacctnt)

I admit it: I’ve been dragging my feet on the men of Glee fashion post. With the likes of Emma Pillsbury, the ladies of Glee are plenty inspiring. But the men? Well, there are football jerseys galore and boring blue jeans and the too-tight coach shorts of Ken Tanaka. So what’s a girl to write about?

Two words: Kurt Hummel, glee diva and fashion icon. After all, he’s the character whose style mantra rings in my head as I’m tempted to wear sweats out to run errands (again): “Every moment of your life is an opportunity for fashion.” Amen. If only he’d make me over a la Rachel Berry. Ah, a girl can dream.

Of course, for those of you who prefer misters swathed in something far less flamboyant, I’ve thrown William Schuester and Finn Hudson into the mix—both of whom stick to more traditional fashion fare. So, are you ready for your men of Glee fashion fix?

That perfectly parted hair. Those amazing high notes. A skincare regime that would make a grown woman envious. And, oh, that wardrobe. Kurt Hummel (played by Chris Colfer) is the glee club’s self-proclaimed fashion iconoclast. In fact, he’s so fashionable, fabulous and wickedly funny that I can’t believe he’s still single (and in love with the stylistically bland Finn).

Kurt has a dapper look that could rival Emma Pillsbury’s swoonworthy style. Of course, in the land of jocks and other teenage baddies, a Gleek who rocks designer duds with serious panache is destined to take a dip in the dumpster—and many slushies to the face, for that matter.

But in the land of grownups, many a man could glean some serious fashion tips from Kurt the crooner: 1. Bow ties won’t make you look like Tucker Carlson (yikes!) as long as you have the chutzpah to pair them with other quirky elements. 2. Designer basics (think a Burberry trench) will be forever chic, so it’s best to invest in big-ticket pieces early. 3. A little bling never hurt anyone.

Kurt Hummel Shopping List:
Taupe Cotton-Poly Belted Trenchcoat, Burberry (Bluefly.com).
London Classic Fit Floral Print Dress Shirt, Paul Smith (Bloomingdales.com).
Silk Bow Tie, Carrot & Gibbs (Saks.com).
Max Slim Fit Jeans in Cash Wash, Acne (Bloomingdales.com).
White Leather Belt, John W. Nordstrom (Nordstrom.com).
Silk/Leather Sneakers, Alessandro Dell’Acqua (Saks.com).

When it comes to style, William Schuester (played by Matthew Morrison) produces no Kurt-like thrills. But he is a solid dresser, at least when compared to colleagues Coach Tanaka and Principal Figgins. So, it’s no wonder that the oh-so-fashionable (and cute as a button) Emma Pillsbury is en el fuego for this Spanish teacher.

While his look isn’t all that exciting, he does have a certain sexy teacher vibe (which I attribute to his Acafellas persona and that rousing performance of Bust a Move). Coveting his style? Schuester’s wardrobe involves a steady rotation of suiting separates with healthy doses of simple sweaters, cardigans and tweed. Very doable for your average mister.

William Schuester Shopping List:
Classic Fit Non-Iron Shirt in Sky Blue, Banana Republic (BananaRepublic.com).
The Bad Seed Vest, Insight (80sPurple.com).
British Regimental Woven Silk Tie, Robert Talbott (Nordstrom.com).
Collezioni Flat Front Herringbone Trousers, Armani (Nordstrom.com).
Dart Briefcase, Jack Spade (Bloomingdales.com).

Finn Hudson (played by Cory Monteith) dresses like every guy I ever dated in high school, which is to say that his routine of predictable blue jeans paired with button downs/rumpled tees/nondescript sweaters is only broken by the occasional football or basketball uniform. Oh, yes—he’s the lovable (and dimwitted) jock, indeed.

Want to dress like the guy all of the high school girls want? Well, without getting too deep into your questionable motives, let’s touch on Finn’s wardrobe basics: jean jacket, plaid button-up and a standard pair of classic kicks. Bonus points for a football or basketball tucked beneath your arm. The Quinn Fabrays and Rachel Berrys of the world just can’t seem to resist a team captain.

Finn Hudson Shopping List:
Dark Rinse Jean Jacket, Gap (Gap.com).
White Tartan Plaid Shirt, Gap (Gap.com).
Authentic Fit Jeans in Resin Rinse, Gap (Gap.com).
Superstar 2.0 Shoes, Adidas.
NCAA 1003 GST Football, Wilson.

Anyone else feeling a wee bit giddy about Glee’s April 13 return from its four-month hiatus? It seems like it’s been ages since I’ve hummed along with the Golden Globe-winning Fox comedy. And I really, really could use a reminder of how Sue sees it.

All of this chatter about the Madonna episode (yay!) and rumored guest appearances from the likes of Neil Patrick Harris certainly don’t make me miss those choir kids any less. Until the show’s return—lest I be forced to belt out any more horribly off-key renditions of the soundtrack to pass the time—I thought a good Glee fashion fix might be in order. And what better place to start than with my three favorite ladies of McKinley High?

So, let’s talk some Glee style, shall we? (P.S. Be sure to check back next week for the men of Glee style feature!)

Emma Pillsbury: Feminine, Retro Charm
Oh, Ms. Pillsbury. Never has a germaphobic high school counselor spawned so many fashion admirers. Pillsbury may be best known for her crush on married coworker and glee club director William Shuester—can you blame her for falling for the hottest guy in Acafellas?—but the lady can dress.

With her quirky-chic style, Pillsbury (played be actress Jayma Mays) has a slew of rabid fashion followers. Pillsbury has also single-handedly brought back sweater clips—you know, the jewels and charms that hold the open collar of your cardigan in place? Love them! (The character has even inspired the What Would Emma Pillsbury Wear? blog. Yes, I’m serious. You can—and should—check it out here. )

How can you infuse a bit of Pillsbury goodness into your wardrobe? Mays described the Pillsbury look to InStyle magazine: “While her outfits are always very put-together, they are still fun and flirty with bows and flowers and the colors of sorbet.”

With that in mind, I’ve put together a very Pillsbury look. Start with a vintage-inspired sweater and a snazzy pencil skirt, then add a frilly blouse, a show-stopping piece of jewelry and a great pair of shoes. And for good measure, I opted for the three-quarter-sleeved cardigan. (It’s much easier for a neat freak to pull on some plastic gloves and get to disinfecting that way.)

Emma Pillsbury Shopping List:
Royal Purple Star Cotton Cropped Cardigan, Marc by Marc Jacobs (Bluefly.com).
Violet Floral Poplin Vallory Pencil Skirt, Elie Tahari (Bluefly.com).
Sunshine Silk Liv Ruffle Sleeveless Ruffle Blouse, Priorities (Bluefly.com).
Tear Drop Flower Stretch Bracelet, Charlotte Russe (CharlotteRusse.com).
Gracie Patent Slingbacks, Kate Spade (KateSpade.com).

Rachel Berry: Geeky, Good Girl Prep
Glee’s resident diva Rachel Berry, the talented and sometimes scarily driven star of the New Directions choir, certainly has a distinct style. I’ll be the first to admit that, at times, her look is a bit too boring-librarian-meets-Catholic-schoolgirl for my taste. But, hey, she’s in high school (remember your yearbook photos?). And I suspect that deep down, she’d rather be rocking a Cheerio cheerleader outfit—if only for the popularity boost.

Alas, this outcast overachiever (played by Lea Michele) is resigned to roam the McKinley hallways of humiliation wearing classic blouses buttoned up to there with knee socks and oodles of argyle. At times, her look reminds me of the days when my mother would dress me as “proper lady” (translation: librarian in training).

But there is always something to be said about the sexy schoolgirl route, isn’t there? In the look above, I decided to take Rachel’s style and infuse it with a bit of retro prep school appeal. After all, there isn’t anything wrong with some sweet knee socks—especially when paired with a flouncy-meets-flirty chambray skirt and Rachel’s signature flats. It’s a little sexy and a lot geeky Gleek chic.

Rachel Berry Shopping List:
Chambray Skirt, Mimi Chica (Nordstrom.com).
Wool Cardigan, Commes des Garcons Play (Saks.com).
Signature Easy-Care Shirt, Jones New York (Macys.com).
Switch Flat in Whiskey, Blowfish (Piperlime.com).

Sue Sylvester: Alpha Female Athletic
Ready to board the Sue Sylvester Express? Destination: the quintessential jock’s dream wardrobe. As Glee’s maniacal cheer coach, talking head and tell-it-like-is baddie, Sylvester has a style that is as no-nonsense as her character. We’re talking matching track suits, athletic shoes and zero deviation.

Sylvester (played by the comedic genius Jane Lynch) lacks any desire for wardrobe variety (and apparently lacks a uterus, but I digress). But, no matter how dark her schemes to destroy the glee club may be, Sylvester isn’t afraid to experiment with color in her wardrobe.

So, I opted for a sexy scarlet number here. You can’t go wrong with a classic Adidas track suit. Add in some souped-up running shoes and a healthy dose of admiration for the horrible high school caste system, and you’re ready to terrorize the Gleeks. And that, my friends, is how Sue wears it.

Sue Sylvester Shopping List:
DS Trefoil Firebird Track Top in Scarlet, Adidas (Adidas.com).
DS Firebird Track Pants in Scarlet, Adidas (Adidas.com).
Intus Running Shoes, Adidas (Adidas.com).
Coach’s Lanyard and Whistle, Adidas (Adidas.com).

Two whole days have past since the Liberty of London collection hit Target shelves. Do you know what that means? It’s nearly all gone. (Yes, already.) I told you that such a juicy collaboration would be pillaged quickly.  But don’t worry, there is still plenty of pillaging to be had.

Of course, I marked the launch on my trusty calendar. (Not that I needed to be reminded. I’ve yammered so much about the line that even my mister knew that Liberty of London was coming to town on Sunday.) And, while I had seen some previews and even shared a sneak peek of the line here, I must say that I was a little overwhelmed when I saw the actual Liberty of London collection.

I’m not typically a greedy person. But when I spied all of the home décor, pretty dresses and accessories, office supplies and gardening goodies, I wanted it all (even though I have an aversion to potting soil and the like). Unfortunately, logic got the best of me.

Rather than cleaning out the contents of my wallet, I simply bought one of collection’s kiss lock wallets instead—well, that and a few other things. A girl has to indulge sometimes. More on my personal Liberty of London scores later.  For now, let’s talk home décor, shall we?

Happy Homewares
In our pre-launch looksy, we got a glimpse of but a few teacups, a teapot and kitchen goodies of a similar ilk. As I’m sure you’ve gathered from the lovelies in the image above, there is much more to be had. Here is the thing: I’m a sucker for punchy shots of color and feminine prints in my home. I purposefully keep the walls, furniture and other big-ticket items in neutral tones to allow for frequent color bursts elsewhere.

So, it makes sense that I’m tempted to grab the entire collection and spread it throughout my home. However, I’m also aware that doing so would be overkill (and would result in the defection of my mister, who has to put his foot down to ensure that our place retains some masculine influence). If this wasn’t an issue, you can rest assured that I would stockpile all of the following:

1. Dunclare Pink Dinner Plate
2. Small Maynard Canister
3. Lampshade in Dunclare Black
4. Liberty Print Rectangle Pillow
5. Peacock Print Toss Pillow
6. Floral Print Chair

Liberty Fashion
From’70s-inspired vintage jumpsuits to frilly dresses, coquettish sleepwear and swimsuits, there are enough finds in this collection to take you all the way through summer. Confession: As someone who spends a good portion of the day working from my home office—where the dress code is admittedly pajama friendly thanks to a complete absence of coworkers—I’m tempted to conduct business in that sweet yellow romper.

1. Yellow Floral Romper
2. Keyhole Jumpsuit in Dunclare Black
3. One-Piece Swimsuit in Turquoise Isis Print
4. One-Shoulder Ruffle Maxi Dress in Pink Garla

Spring Style in the Bag
Remember my aforementioned pocketbook purchase? I snagged the blue floral beauty in the upper right. It’s such a happy little wallet—even though I’ve already stuffed it to the gills with my unwieldy collection of credit cards, coupons and business cards. Pick up one of these accessories, and it’s impossible not to get a little rush of glee when you grab it on your way out the door.

1. Coated Shopper in Garla Red
2. Kiss Lock Wallet in Jennifer Flowers Blue
3. Kiss Lock Wallet in Poppy Pink
4. Floppy Hat in Dunclare Black
5. Zip Around Wallet in Susanna Green

Let’s Hear it for the Boys
My Liberty of London purchases were already making their way to my doorstep when my mister needed to make an in-store stop at Target. I wandered the aisles alone to see what Liberty wares were left (not many), grappling with the desire to allow myself just ­one­ more indulgence, when my mister found me with an unexpected find in hand. He too couldn’t resist the lure of the Liberty of London print. He chose the silk tie on the far right with the little yellow and gray cars. What can I say? He’s a man after my own Liberty-loving heart.

1. Navy Floral Shirt
2. Blue Floral Shirt
3. Multi Floral Shirt
4. Mauverina Blue Silk Tie
5. Darnley Pink Silk Tie
6. Martha Grace Dark Blue Silk Tie
7. Garla Red Silk Tie
8. Cars Cream Silk Tie

I am the queen of bad hair days. And my stints in front of the mirror typically go something like this: long tresses, short timeframe to whip them into compliance. This is why I’ve developed an unhealthy dependence on hair accessories, specifically of the headband variety.

When I don’t have 20 minutes (usually after a hit-the-snooze-button-again binge) to blow out, flat iron and gloss my hair into shampoo commercial perfection, I create a diversion. I grab the closest hair band, twist my mane into a messy ballerina knot—high on my head if I’m feeling sassy, low if I’m going for laid back—and smack on a headband. End of story.

So, I’m sure you can see why my heart went pitter-patter when I happened upon this smorgasbord of hair accessorizing delight at the 80s Purple site. With so many bows, baubles and bird-like beauties promising to solve all of my hair woes, I was a smidge overwhelmed with glee.

My advice to anyone who has ever tugged and toiled with unruly hair: Grab a couple of these lovelies at 80s Purple, put them into heavy rotation on your most frenzied of mornings and then report back. I challenge you to not feel a little bit chicer and more put together on your most disheveled of days. Say it with me: I (and more specifically, my morning mood) will no longer be affected by the mean-spirited nature of my tangled bed head.

1. Elsa Bow by Cheap Monday: I figure that eventually I will age out of the bow phase. I mean, at some point, bows must look silly on a grown woman, right? Well, until that dreaded day arrives, I will continue to channel my inner swing-set-loving girl and don oversized bows like this satiny black number.

2. Feathered Hair Comb in Brown by Laura Kranitz: Typically, I wouldn’t categorize sleek feathers and frills as anything but feminine. But something about this comb reads rugged and earthy. Even when paired with crumpled hair, jeans and a tee, it would be right at home.

3. Yellow Alligator with Teal Feathers by Withano: The male peacock can keep his fancy feathers. As long as you’ve got this teal plumage placed in your locks, you won’t have to worry about turning heads.

4. Synthetic Braided Band in Brown by Bijules: Leave the fancy braiding and cascading hair to Rapunzel—after all, she’s got plenty of time for such hairstyling while she’s up in that tower. But you have deadlines to make and trains to catch, so I suggest pulling your tresses back into a quick and easy low ponytail and using this band to tame flyaways. The diamond-cut ball chains that drape from the back will add an unexpected spark to a plain pony.

5. Christy Headband in Gold by Laura Kranitz: If this headband doesn’t call to mind images of Gossip Girl Blair Waldorf, nothing will. However, unlike our favorite Upper East Siders, we real world ladies don’t always look so prim and pristine. For those of us who tend to go a couple days between hair washes (hey, it happens!), this mesh net double bow will serve as a welcome and chic distraction from locks that haven’t seen suds in a while.

6. Mara Hairclip in Cream by Laura Kranitz: One word: stunning. Could this handmade hairclip be any more of a showstopper? The medallion base, with its intricate details and subtle pops of color, looks like it could be a treasured heirloom. Add in the splash of peacock plumes and delicate brown feathers, and you have a breathtaking accessory that feels more like a work of art.

(Photos: 80s Purple)

Wouldn’t it be dreamy if you discovered a weathered trunk—let’s say in your grandmother’s attic—that held the most breathtaking antiqued lace pretties? The kind of pieces that are just begging for you to breathe life into them. I experienced a similar thrill of discovery when my eyes fell upon these heirloom lace tops in the “new vintage” section of Piperlime.com.

These tops, of course, are not freebie finds or pretty hand-me-downs, but they do have a certain heirloom charm, don’t you think?

Lace is just so delicate and sweet, which makes it hard to resist when (like me) you’re completely enamored of all things feminine. The trick to making such girlie pieces work is in the styling. It’s best to keep the other elements of your outfit simple, grounded and a little tough. After all, lace has a lot of gorgeous detail all on its own.

How to Work a Lace Look
To ensure that your lace-kissed ensemble isn’t too prissy and pristine, gravitate to items that are earthy and not overtly frilly. Add a lace top to worn jeans, perhaps your favorite pair of beat-up boyfriend jeans rolled carelessly above the ankles. Toss in a pair of teetering wood wedges or strappy leather thong sandals. And, to allow the lace to hold its feminine reign, opt for jewelry that isn’t too precious. (Think slightly tough gold chains layered around your neck, wooden bangles or a chunky stone ring.)

Thanks to the airy nature of this look, these lace tops are ideal for your spring social calendar. Slip on a lace tank and let it peek out from beneath a blazer at work and ditch the cover-up for dinner.  And can’t you picture some of these pieces slipped on poolside over a bikini then coupled with skinny jeans and some sky-high platforms for drinks?

Where to Nab These Picks
You can get your pretty little hands on each of these lace looks at Piperlime.com, which by the way is the home of free shipping and free returns. (Yes, that’s true—pinkie promise!) Just imagine yourself donning a top that is the epitome of creamy, soft perfection and click away. I’m partial to the clay-colored Beyond Vintage number with the lace panels and scalloped sleeves—not to mention the ivory LnA racerback tank—but as always, it’s to each her own.

1. Sophia Floral Lace Top in Ivory, Beyond Vintage.
2. Lace Top with Camisole in Clay, Beyond Vintage.
3. Chloe Lace Top in Natural, Sanctuary.
4. Flower Lace Tie Waist Top in Ivory, Beyond Vintage.
5. All Over Lace Top in Ivory, Beyond Vintage.
6. Lace Racerback Tank in Ivory, LnA.