Straight Up Poser

Top: Lauren Conrad for Kohls | Skirt: Forever 21 | Shoes: Payless | Necklace: Sam Moon | Bracelets: Sam Moon, F21 | Sunglasses: F21

I went out on a limb with these shots. I told Ross that I needed to "spice" up my outfit posts.  I seem to consistently pose the same way time and again...a big smile, one knee bent with a hand on my hip.  I have never liked my profile nor my "serious" face.  I feel most comfortable looking straight at the camera, smiling and planning how I stand in pictures. Like most women, I know my "good" side and what angles aren't flattering.  I think we have all taken enough pictures to have our stances nailed down to an art.  Please tell me that I am not alone on this one.

Anyway, I just went for it, I pretended, for about 10 minutes, to be one of those oh-so-famous fashion bloggers or Pinterest celebrities.  Beside the fact that I slightly chuckle looking at myself, I think Ross did a nice job of capturing a few non-poser pictures. I couldn't resist being a "poser" in a least one. It's tradition on this here blog...a big smile, one knee slightly bent and a hand close to my hip.

Cheers to spicing things up!

My Lunch Break with Jason Wu

I wish I could have lunch with Jason Wu.  I am just happy enough to wear a dress from his new line at Target.  I actually was on a lunch date with my husband in these pictures {thanks, hubs, for snapping my pics}. We rendezvoused at 11:30 AM at one of our favorite local Mexican eateries.  It was worth every single calorie and fat gram...chips, salsa, queso, jalapeno ranch and a big, steamy, greasy plate of cheese enchiladas!  I needed a serious siesta after that treat.  

I must admit, that I was one of the "crazies" that hit my local Target store {okay, two Target stores} bright and early on Sunday morning to snag up as much Jason Wu for Target as I could. I am not exaggerating, it was all gone in a matter of minutes. You know what I mean if you were in the stores that day. I was lucky enough to grab a few dresses and a black pleated skirt.  I am sure you will be seeing my purchases in future posts.

I replaced the black tie that came with the dress with a thin, pink leather belt.

One of my favorite, cooler weather looks...tights with black ankle boots.

I kept my accessories to a minimum.  I didn't feel like I needed too many extras.

Dress:Jason Wu for Target | Cardigan:Mossimo | Tights:Forever 21 | Boots:Payless  

Sunglasses:XOXO | Necklace & Ring:Forever 21 | Belt:Target

Watch:Fossil | Bracelets:Vintage from my Grandmother

If you missed out on the Jason Wu goods, there's still hope!  I heard, from a reliable source, that Target is going to slowly replenish their stock online this week.  I am almost positive the actual retail stores will not be receiving any additional merchandise.  So, be sure to check online to see what's been added.  I must admit, there are a couple of items that I still REALLY want.  Fingers are crossed that they will be available soon!!

Cheers to Mexican food, the person that invented queso and Jason Wu for Target!

Today I am linking up with:

Tarzan The Monkey Man - Luxe Safari, Baby!

Yep, guess what?  Leopard prints aren't going anywhere!  For those who know me well, I have been rockin' this print since the 90's!  I might even be able to dig up that old outfit from college that, to this very day,  still get "razzed" about...you know who you are!  I remember the first safari print I purchased myself....it was from Cato back in 1994...does anyone remember that store?  Am I dating myself?  Well, I am choosing to call this Spring 2012 trend "Luxe Safari".  It sounds so much more sophisticated.  

For those of you who are a little timid by the word "Safari Print"; let me ease your mind.  You don't have to rock a head-to-toe leopard get-up to be in style this Spring.  A little pop here-and-there...you will be good to go!

Think animal print fabric, snake skin pumps, stacks of gold bracelets, and a some aviators and you will be well on your way as a globe trotting explorer!  Like always....K.I.S.S. - Keep It Simple Sister!

Some colors to keep in mind when putting this look together are earth tones - green, orange, mild purple, gold, copper, tan and of course black. 

Other hints of safari to consider in your wardrobe are leopard shoes (they are everywhere), a scarf, a thin belt, bangle bracelets or even a clutch.

I put together the outfit below.  I wanted one piece to pop (insert orange pants) and keep everything else neutral while highlighting the Tarzan and Jane in me. 

Luxe Safari by because-shanna-said-so featuring a double breasted jacket

 I have included some pieces from my closet to show you how you can be "Queen of Your Own Jungle".  Please excuse my photography....my hobby is fashion...not taking pictures.  Cheers!

Orange & Black - Great with black leggings and riding boots 

 Bangles with safari intertwined & some orange & turquoise

Not all safari has to be brown & black!

Snake skin dress from Old Navy

My bargain find - Payless - love these wedges

Fun little cropped cardigan - wonderful work wear!

Infinity Scarf - Express - goes with anything!