How Do You Shop There?

I have been asked time and time again about how I shop and actually find pieces at Forever 21. People constantly say that they get overwhelmed in the store, never find anything or wonder if the clothes actually hold up after one wear.

Today I thought I would show a handful of pieces that I have my eyes on and can be mixed and matched several ways. That's the beauty of Forever 21, it has the capabilities of being a one stop shop for clothes, shoes and accessories that actually do last. 

Leopard Coat // Plaid Scarf // Stripe Rugby Sweater // Bow Waist Belt // Red Clutch // Bangles // Tassel Necklace //  Suede Cap // Plaid Top // Stripe Flats // Fur Vest

Anyone out there surprised that all of these items are from Forever 21? If I didn't make a believer out of you today, than I don't think it will ever happen. Just remember that you don't have to be 21 or under to shop there. Having a closet packed full of their clothes, shoes and scarves, I can promise you that their quality is better than you might expect. It just takes time to learn their layout, both the storefronts and website. They really do have a little bit of everything for almost any occasion, style, age, size and budget. I plan to be a loyal fan until the day I get a senior citizen discount.

*This post is not sponsored by Forever 21. Lord knows I wish it was. Maybe one day they will notice and put me on the payroll.

Cropped Layers + Lilac Bijoux Giveaway

I have seen countless posts from style bloggers wearing a cropped top. They all look adorable and I hate them for it. Kidding. Well, kind of kidding. I believe I am not only well past the age of cropped tops, but also far from having a toned, exposed mid-section.

Dress: Target (similar here and here) // Top: Forever 21 // Vest: Forever 21 (similar here and exact in another color) // Heels: Zara (similar here) // Clutch: Outrage Fashion c/o // Necklace: Lilac Bijoux c/o // Bracelets: Cathryn Ann Designs c/o // Glasses: Forever 21

I picked up this leopard top at Forever 21 a few months back, also seen here, and thought it was long enough to wear with most bottoms. Come to find out, it really only works with high waist pants or in this case, layered over a dress.

I came so close to taking it back because even a showing small peek of my tummy is a personal no-go. 

After some styling and clothes flinging in the air, I pulled this cropped sweater over my black dress and started to like what I saw. Hey, no skin showing this time. Then came the leather vest and a few layers later this look was created.

One of my favorite things about fall and winter is being able to layer my clothes. It's fun to stack pieces on top of one another and come up different style combinations. With my shopping ban still in full effect, remixing a few of my favorite pieces has been key.

What's also key is adding a pop of dazzle and sparkle to finish off a look. In this case it was a statement necklace from Lilac Bijoux. The jewel tone colors and design scream fall. It ties the whole look together and took a leopard top and edgy leather vest to a feminine and classy level.

Today, my sweet friends over at Lilac Bijoux are giving away the same necklace I am wearing today to one lucky reader. Make sure to hop on over to their website and take a look at all the other pieces they have to offer. A few of my favorites; everything from Loren Hope, a crown ring for all my princess friends and this adorable Mud Pie bow bangle.

Use the code shanna20 and receive 20% off your entire order, now through Sunday, November 10th. Happy shopping!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

 **If you are linking up today, the only request is that you follow my blog with GFC or Bloglovin' and link back to it in your post. It's how weekly link ups work. Oh, and go meet some new friends! 

 

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Linking up with The Pleated Poppy.

No More Excuses

Do you have one of those outfits that you wear when you are feeling fluffier than normal? You know the one. It covers all the parts that aren't very cute. You you don't have to suck in when you wear it. Everything is hidden perfectly underneath. Well, this is that outfit. I suppose I should say this top. It's a Kiki La'Rue essential and every girl needs one in every single color.

Top: Kiki La'Rue c/o // Jeans: Elle from Kohl's (similar here and here) // Scarf: Kiki La'Rue // Boots: Francesca's (similar here and here) // Bag: Olivia and Joy c/o (similar here and here) // Ring: Kendra Scott c/o Jeweler's Wife 

Can I get a little personal with you guys? 

Something happened when I turned another year older this year. I mean it, all of a sudden my metabolism ran away and I can't seem to find it. It may have to do with the fact that I received a text message from Jack in the Box last week telling me to come in for a Monster Taco. Or the fact that I ate chips in salsa in the deer stand for an hour on Saturday. It could possibly be that I consume more carbonated drinks than water.

I am not saying that I am overweight. I am saying that I am personally not happy with myself right now. I can see it in photos. I can feel it in my clothes. I haven't exercised in God knows when. I just feel gross. I have never been one to weigh myself every single day. I have always gone with how my clothes fit. I had to step on a scale when I had a doctor's appointment last week and seeing the number made me cringe.

After I got over the scale shock, I told myself that is was time to change my habits. My old ways are not cutting it anymore and it's time to get healthy, cut out the junk and get myself back on an exercise routine. 

I am not going on some crazy diet or planning to work out seven days a week. I am focusing on cutting out two tacos for $.99. I am waiting for the arrival of Beachbody's T25 and Physique 57. They should be on my doorstep this week. My goal is to ease back into it. Work up agility again because right now, I am the most out of shape I have ever been in my life. It's embarrassing.

Truth is, I got lazy. I made excuses. I gave myself reasons why a drive thru was better than a salad at home. I programmed my brain to think I was too busy to go to the gym, take a walk or break a sweat.

Those days are over...hopefully. I am determined to feel comfortable with my body again. I just wish I would have kicked myself into gear months ago because starting a lifestyle change so close to the holidays might be a tad bit tricky.

I know I can do it. I am The Little Engine that could. I am ready for more energy, my jeans to button without sucking in and doing an up and down "squat" to stretch them out and to eliminate Mexican food comas.

I will keep you guys posted on the videos I am going to start doing and will hopefully report glorious reviews in a few weeks. Until then...wish me luck!