understated valentine

Dress: Free People, Coat: J.Crew, Scarf: Jcrew old (similar here), Boots: Stuart Weitzman old (similar here),  

on my new york city loves

Although I will always be a Florida girl at heart, I have moved to New York and love every single day of the city life. You can find an incredible bite of food on almost every block, and there is virtually always something to do. After all, the city never sleeps. But, my favorite part about living in New York City is the exposure to fashion. I love the street style and especially the shopping. I am currently obsessing over Fivestory, Intermix, Opening Ceremony, and Scoop NYC because they're all meccas of style.

Fivestory the brainchild of Claire Distenfeld and her father is the realization of my most decadent, fashionable dreams in an Upper East Side townhouse. The boutique is very much high-end and showcases many lesser-known designers. The clothing and accessories are displayed as artistic masterpieces, just as they should be.

Intermix has taken the media by storm recently after being purchased by Gap. The boutique is fun and young and hosts a great number of designers from Joie to Herve Leger to Giuseppe Zanotti. I can't go in without finding something new that I absolutely love.

Opening Ceremony is famous for its quirky, yet very beautiful products. It's the edgier sister to Fivestory, featuring lesser-known designers while upholding a high-end status. The prices are often daunting, but the clothes and accessories are always stunning and fun.

Scoop NYC has been one of my favorites for years. Its products are very similar to those of Intermix. The volume of clothing at times can be overwhelming. But, overwhelming is never a bad thing when it comes to clothes.

A Preen dress from Fivestory, a Zac Posen maxi from Scoop, an M & Guia dress from Intermix, a Missoni caftan from Intermix, a 3.1 Phillip Lim satchel from Scoop, Meli platforms from Intermix, Ash wedge sneakers from Intermix, a Proenza Schouler messenger from Opening Ceremony, and Jeremy Scott sunglasses from Opening Ceremony

Any suggestions for shopping in NYC? Comment below.

a cheap new year: picks under $150

After a holiday season of major gift-giving, my wallet is feeling a little lighter than I would like. However, I still have a desire for shopping that must be met. So, I have explored my favorite go-to's and compiled this set of fabulous finds under $150. Each is a fun basic that can be translated seamlessly throughout each season.

1. A  military anorak is an essential staple for winter and spring. This one, from Hive & Honey, is perfect for layering to protect against the cold yet can still be worn with a light sundress. 

2. A little black lace dress is feminine, fun, and appropriate for so many occasions, by its classification as a LBD alone. I'm dying for this Free People whimsical dress.

3. Accessories are key in any outfit. This cuff by Tinley Road adds a little shine to any ensemble, like the Free People dress above.

4. A simple sweater is perfect for rushing out the door. This MINKPINK sweater is cute, yet practical.

5. This ONE by vegan leather skirt may not be a staple. However, it can be worn day or night, with tights or sans tights. The faux leather lends it a little edge while its a-line silhouette keep it flirty and feminine.

6. Jeans are always essential. I've been searching for the perfect, relaxed pair and believe I have found it with Blank Denim.

7. Skin-tight jeans are necessary when wearing boots. So, Blank Denim's spray on jean fit the bill for the perfect boot jean.

8. This Rachel Zoe platform can be worn with a fun cocktail dress while adding lots of height, which I always appreciate.

9. A preppy, Cole Haan slipper is perfect for casual days. The leopard print and red trim keep it exciting and, no designer makes a more comfortable shoe than Cole Haan.

10. A pair of retro sunglasses are good for every sunny day, whether it's in January or June. I can't wait to get my hands on this Halogen pair.