Showing posts with label Sale steals. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Sale steals. Show all posts

Wednesday 30 May 2018

What I Bought In May & How I've Worn It - Jeanswest Waterfall Drape Cardigan

While I did do some shopping, there is no haul video this month. One of my purchases hasn't arrived and so I'll wait until then to film a video. Instead, I'll share with you the two pieces that I do have after buying them this month.

Jeanswest had a 30% off sale on knitwear, so as I usually do, I checked the site 'just to browse' and saw this beautiful waterfall drape cardigan. I ended up buying two!

The cardigan comes in three colours, so I went to the store to try them on, and ended up loving both colours I tried on and bought both. After donating 3 of the cardigans I'd just unboxed from my boxes of winter clothes I pulled out of storage though I felt justified in doing so!


As you can see from the photos below of how I wore the cardigans, you can wear them two ways which instantly appealed to me.


What I Bought:







There are two buttons, one on each shoulder of the cardigan, and a button hole at the bottom of each hem. That means you can button up one or both sides of the cardigan when you wear it (like I did here). It's ideal for breastfeeding, as it turns your cardigan into a breastfeeding cover, and is something I wish I had when I was breastfeeding. I used to have to hold baby and the cardigan over the top of him when using my cardigans as breastfeeding covers. While my breastfeeding days are behind me, I'm still tagging breastfeeding friendly outfits on the blog. I'll just be making use of the feature when I want to wear these cardigans differently!


When I buy things, I think of two ways to wear them. With the buttons making these cardigans adaptable, it was an easy purchase to make as I have so many more ways to wear them. I'm thinking that the new thicker red cardigan will get worn more than the light one it replaced too.

How I Wore It:

Jeanswest waterfall drape cardigan 2018 5 ways to wear red and navy | awayfromtheblue blog


I'm pleased I was able to wear these cardigans so soon after I bought them, unlike the last knit I bought back at the start of autumn when it took weeks for the weather to cool.

Special mention also to these two lovely kimonos the boys got me for Mother's Day that were added to my wardrobe in May!



For the third thing I bought, I will share a reveal video as soon as it arrives. I ordered something from the Rebecca Minkoff online sample sale. There will be a delay in shipping as the sale was so popular, and it takes a while to reach Australia from the US too. Can't wait for it to arrive. Make sure you're subscribed to my YouTube channel to see it before it reaches the blog!


Linking up with Style On The Daily, Oh Hey Girl, Fashion Frenzy, Fashion Files, Fun Fashion, Weekend Wear, Fabulous Friday.


Follow Away From the Blue on:
Bloglovin
Twitter : Instagram Youtube : Facebook : Google Plus : LikeToKnow.It 

Monday 7 May 2018

Blue Dresses and Black Accessories: Mimco Button Bag and Rebecca Minkoff Velvet Double Wrap Belt

Last month I picked up the cute Rebecca Minkoff Liv double wrap belt in the Shopbop sale. A complete impulse buy, I was just looking for something a little different to update my wardrobe as I am feeling pretty content with all the clothes I have. And I looked at accessories as the weather wasn't cooperating with all the dreams I had for buying cosy knits, it was a very warm start to autumn!

I wore the belt to the office two slightly different ways, with the same bag each time. My Mimco black button bag is a classic most Australians would recognise, and my very first 'expensive' (triple digit) handbag purchase.

What I wore:

black velvet belt over pink vest blue aztec print dress mimco button bag office outfit | awayfromblue

JORD Cora Wood Watch with Mimco Black monochrome button bag original size | awayfromtheblue

awayfromblue instagram velvet belt pink vest blue aztec print dress for office
JacketJeanswest Peri drape sleeveless jacket (on sale!)
Necklace: gifted Swarovski heart pendant
DressJeanswest Aztec print dress
BeltRebecca Minkoff Liv double wrap velvet belt (new purchase)
ShoesMarc by Marc Jacobs black logo plaque ballet flats
BagMimco black button bag
NailsOPI Koala Bear-y

Why I wore it:

With the cooler mornings and evenings, and a bit of rain, I was excited autumn may finally be arriving in Brisbane. I did want to get more wear from this vest before it got too cold though. I find vests better suited for warmer weather. When it's cold, I want my arms covered. If was the perfect day to wear this vest though. Cool, but not too cold. When I first bought this vest, I thought of belting it. I see bloggers belting vests all the time, so that's probably what gave me the idea. This is it's tenth wear though, and the first time I've belted it!

I really liked this outfit! The dusty pink of the vest worked perfectly with the blue Aztec print in the dress, with the black belt matching the black in the dress print as well as the Mimco button bag and black ballet flats. I'm surprised it took me so long to belt this vest as I love the look. I'm glad I eventually gave it a go! The outfit was practical too - had the flu shot at work in preparation for the upcoming winter and needed my arms uncovered.


Last worn: pink vest, Aztec print dress, black ballet flats, Mimco black button bag. First time I've worn the velvet double wrap belt as it's a new purchase.

Other ways to wearpink vest and graphic tee, Aztec print dress and purple bag, black ballet flats and wrap dress, Mimco black button bag and pencil skirt.

Perfect for pregnancyAztec print dress in third trimester.



Review and Contents of the Mimco Button Bag (original version)







What I wore:

office french connection paisley print sheath dress black accessories and mimco button bag | away from blue

paisley print dress and mimco black button bag original on shoulder | away from the blue

awayfromblue instagram | black accessories and button bag with blue paisley print office sheath dress
NecklaceHouse of Harlow 5 station necklace in black and silver
DressFrench Connection blue Paisley print dress
BeltRebecca Minkoff Liv double wrap velvet belt
ShoesWalnut Melbourne 'Ava' black lizard ballet flats (also available in silver)
Bracelets: the usual plus Cora purpleheart and mother of pearl watch C/O JORD
BagMimco black button bag
NailsOPI Koala Bear-y

Why I wore it:

I didn't like this outfit as much as the one above. The blue Paisley print of this dress is beautiful, but I felt the black accessories didn't look as good as they could have with it. I was really liking the outfit until I went to pick a black necklace. I don't have many, and this was the best one I could find. The velvet belt has gold hardware and this necklace has really prominent silver. I felt a little mismatched all day. I don't mind mixing gold and silver in bracelet stacks or when layering necklaces together, it just felt a little 'off' having the different metals on different accessories.

Just a minor thing, but next time I'd spend the time to hunt out a gold necklace and I'm sure I'd like the outfit better!


Last worn: Paisley print sheath dress, Walnut Melbourne flats, Mimco Button Bag (above).

Other ways to wearPaisley print sheath dress and tote bag, Walnut Melbourne flats and printed skirt, Mimco Button Bag and monochrome outfit.

Perfect for pregnancyPaisley print sheath dress in second trimester, Walnut Melbourne flats and maternity skirt.



More Velvet Belts Under $50:





How You Can Wear It:

A really easy way to change up the look of your favourite dress is to add a belt. It doesn't require buying anything new, as you probably already have a couple belts you could try it with. In these photos above I matched the black belt with black accessories, but you could also add a belt that contrasts with your outfit and other accessories for a pop of colour.



Linking up with Turning Heads, Fashion Frenzy, Style On The Daily, Oh Hey Girl, Modest Monday.



Follow Away From the Blue on:
Bloglovin
Twitter : Instagram Youtube : Facebook : Google Plus : LikeToKnow.It 

Monday 30 April 2018

What I Bought In April & How I Wore It

Every month I like to share what I've bought and how I've worn it. This month was a month of impulse buys, driven by sales. Grab a drink and watch the video where I go through everything in detail, and try everything on.


What I Bought:











I know I don't usually include beauty products in my hauls, mostly because only wearing makeup two days a week to go into the office means I rarely have to buy replacements! But I picked up a couple of things in the Priceline 40% off sale.






How I Wore It:

awayfromblue april monthly purchases and how I wore them rebecca minkoff poncho belt and Jeanswest


No surprise I wore the navy Jeanswest top twice right away - it's perfect for SAHM life and office life. You could even breastfeed in it if you do the singlet underneath trick and lift it up for access.

I'm pleased I managed to wear everything else twice too, especially the kimono as I was worried it would be too warm to wear this month. Thankfully autumn weather started to arrive near the end of April so I could meet my goal and wear it twice! I like to wear everything I buy twice in the month I buy it. It ensures I buy things I can use right away, stops things being bought just to sit unworn in my wardrobe, and makes me think of different ways I can wear things before I buy.

Linking up with Confident Twosday, Turning Heads, On Trend, Trend Spin, Style On The Daily, Fashion Frenzy



Follow Away From the Blue on:
Bloglovin
Twitter : Instagram Youtube : Facebook : Google Plus : LikeToKnow.It 

Friday 27 April 2018

Two Ways to Wear: Jeanswest Chana Long Sleeve Studded Navy Boho Peasant Top With Balenciaga City and Rebecca Minkoff Regan

When I got the email that Jeanswest had a sale on, I hopped on the site for a quick browse. I saw this top and instantly fell in love, and purchased it the same day. Originally $59, reduced to $20, I couldn't say no! While it's got the tassels and the studs, it's still a lovely neutral navy, and I can see it going with so much in my wardrobe. I wore it below for a casual day of shopping, and more formally for a day at the office.

What I wore:

jeanswest chana long sleeve studded navy boho peasant top monochrome shorts outfit pink Balenciaga accessories | awayfromblue

monochrome navy shorts outfit with Balenciaga RH classic city in 2010 sorbet  |  awayfromtheblue

awayfromblue monochrome navy outfit printed shorts boho peasant top pink balenciaga accessories
DressJeanswest chana long sleeve stud top in night sky navy (new purchase)
ShortsJeanswest 'Scarlette' printed shorts
ShoesBalenciaga studded sandals in sorbet RGGH
BagBalenciaga RH classic city in 2010 sorbet (more affordable preloved)

Why I wore it:

After a busy few weeks, I was really looking forward to a relaxing day of shopping. As relaxing as it can be with two little boys in tow! Overall, they were pretty good. We had time to browse a few stores. I had a hunt through the Jeanswest sale again, and while I tried some things on nothing came home with me. My sister did buy this star print tee which you might remember I bought last month! We have quite a few of the same or similar pieces in our wardrobes actually, so I wasn't surprised when she picked it up.

With the navy top and navy shorts together, I wanted something to break it up a little. I was originally going to wear my pink Rebecca Minkoff mini MAC bag, but felt a bigger pop of colour was needed. The sorbet pink Balenciaga city bag was perfect, and it meant I could be matchy matchy with the Balenciaga sandals as well, not just the top and shorts.


Last worn: printed shorts, Balenciaga sandals, Balenciaga sorbet city. First time I've worn the top as it's a recent purchase.

Other ways to wearprinted shorts and kimono, Balenciaga sandals and black maxi dress, Balenciaga sorbet city in the office. First time I've worn the top as it's a recent purchase.

Perfect for pregnancyBalenciaga sandals in second trimester, Balenciaga sorbet city at 37 weeks.



Balenciaga City Compared with the Rebecca Minkoff Regan Bag:











What I wore:

boho jeanswest chana top and pencil skirt autumn business casual office outfit | away from blue

Rebecca Minkoff Regan Satchel Tote in moon | away from the blue

awayfromblue instagram business casual autumn office outfit pencil skirt boho peasant navy top
Blouse:Jeanswest chana long sleeve stud top in night sky navy
SkirtJeanswest zip detail ponte pencil skirt
ShoesWalnut Melbourne 'Ava' black lizard ballet flats (also available in silver)
Bracelets: the usual
BagRebecca Minkoff Regan Satchel Tote in moon

Why I wore it:

I woke up this morning not feeling too great, but figured it was because of a busier than weekend. Put on this lovely top to boost my mood, and the Rebecca Minkoff Regan bag as I like how nicely the navy colours work together. Once I was at work I realised I couldn't shake the head cold, and ended up going home a little early after my final meeting for the day. I intended to rest up for a couple hours before the boys got home from daycare, with the idea that I'd feel better the next day after resting. Unfortunately, I did not. I ended up being pretty sick for a few days - as were the boys, which didn't help with resting and recovering! Thankfully we are all feeling much better now.


I'm glad it was a warm enough morning that I didn't need a blazer with this so that it was easier to see the fun studded sleeve detail. I did wish at the end of the day when I started getting feverish that I'd had a scarf in my bag to wrap myself up in though. Heading home to bed was the next best thing!


Last worn: Jeanswest boho top (above), black pencil skirt, Walnut Melbourne ballet flats, Rebecca Minkoff Regan bag.

Other ways to wearblack pencil skirt over a dress, Walnut Melbourne ballet flats and fit and flare dress, Rebecca Minkoff Regan bag and wrap dress.


Perfect for pregnancyblack pencil skirt in second trimester, Walnut Melbourne ballet flats in second trimester.




More Boho Style Peasant Tops For Work And Weekend Under $50:





How You Can Wear It:

Neutral tops like this in modest cuts are perfect for casual days out with the boys, or more formally with a pencil skirt for the office. The beauty of a block colour top is that you can pair it with fun printed pieces without worrying about patterns clashing. I'm always looking for more ways to wear pieces in my wardrobe, so tops like this that do double duty in the office and on weekends are must-haves!


Linking up with Friday Faves, Lizzie In Lace, Shoe & Tell, Mix It Monday, Hello Monday, On Mondays We Link Up.



Follow Away From the Blue on:
Bloglovin
Twitter : Instagram Youtube : Facebook : Google Plus : LikeToKnow.It 

Friday 13 April 2018

Two Ways To Wear Jeanswest Kaylin Star Print Foil Tee

When I buy something, I have the rule that I have to wear it twice in the month I buy it. When I'm considering things, I like to think up two different ways to wear it right away. This post is a good opportunity to show those ways.

I only bought one thing in March, the Jeanswest Kaylin star foil grey tee. I had tried on a white star print tee there a few weeks previously and put it back as it was too sheer. I couldn't stop thinking about it though, so when they had a 30% off sale I went back to get it. Was really happy to see this 'smoke marle' colour which is opaque and not as sheer as the white version. It was a definite must buy!

What I wore:

Jeanswest Kaylin star foil grey tee with blue soft printed shorts Havaianas silver mini MAC playgroup outfit | awayfromblue

silver bracelet stack, blue shorts and Rebecca Minkoff metallic mini MAC | awayfromtheblue

awayfromblue instagram Jeanswest Kaylin star foil grey tee blue soft relaxed fit shorts playgroup outfit
Necklace: Uniquely Made with Love Sea Change necklace
TeeJeanswest Kaylin star foil grey tee (new purchase)
ShortsJeanswest 'Scarlette' printed shorts
Shoesblack slim Havaianas thongs
BagRebecca Minkoff metallic silver mini MAC

Why I wore it:

First time I wore this foil star print tee was to playgroup. As it was another hot autumn day that felt more like summer, I picked the soft shorts to wear with it. I like wearing other prints with these shorts, but usually go for stripes, so the star print was a nice change. With the silver foil on the tee and the silver Rebecca Minkoff mini MAC, it felt like a slightly dressier option for playgroup where we celebrated Baby Boy's birthday as well as the birthday of one of his friends.

The benefits of the soft shorts and soft tee were that they kept me cool as we rushed around trying to complete some errands before playgroup. As well as grabbing some groceries, we went to Kmart to print our some thank you cards from the birthday party on the weekend. I usually have a pretty bad track record with thank you notes going out on time, so I felt pretty accomplished getting printed a couple days after the party! Took me a little while longer to write and send them of course...


Last worn: relaxed print shorts, Havaianas, Rebecca Minkoff metallic silver mini MAC. First time I've worn the foil tee as it's a recent purchase.

Other ways to wearrelaxed print shorts and kimono, Rebecca Minkoff metallic silver mini MAC and colourful jeans.

Perfect for pregnancy: Rebecca Minkoff metallic silver mini MAC in third trimester.


Rebecca Minkoff Mini MAC and Micro Regan Comparison





What I wore:

Jeanswest Kaylin star foil grey tee with chambray denim maxi skirt mustard yellow bag beach stroll outfit | away from the blue

Rebecca Minkoff micro Regan satchel in Harvest Gold | away from the blue

Awayfromblue instagram | Jeanswest Kaylin star foil grey tee chambray noisy may maxi skirt mustard micro Regan bag
Necklace: Lovisa silver love knitted heart pendant necklace
TeeJeanswest Kaylin star foil grey tee
SkirtNoisy May long denim maxi skirt
ShoesRebecca Minkoff Georgina studded gladiator sandals in blush
Bracelets: the usual plus Cora purpleheart and mother of pearl watch C/O JORD
BagRebecca Minkoff micro Regan satchel in Harvest Gold
Nail PolishOPI Russian Navy

Why I wore it:

I'm so glad I got this tee in grey, While it's a really light grey, it's not so white that I worry about wearing it around the boys. Wore it for the second time to go to the Manly markets. The plan was to spend the morning walking around the markets and maybe play in the playground if the rain held off. Well it cleared into a beautiful sunny day, which of course made the beach appealing for the boys. While none of us were dressed for it, we quickly kicked off our shoes and went for a paddle. Which is impossible to do with boys, ha! There was water being splashed everywhere, they were running in the waves, and at one point a massive wipeout ensured  no-one was dry at the end of the morning. I still carry and keep a spare change of clothes in the baby bag thankfully.

Despite not being prepared for getting wet, it was still a really fun morning, and a great way to cool down as the temperatures kept rising. We had the aircon on again in the afternoon, despite it being the end of the first month of autumn.

As I'd worn this silver foil tee with the blue shorts above, I felt this chambray skirt was a little repetitive with it. I do love silver and blue together though, it's why I have so many silver accessories with all the blue in my wardrobe. I decided to add a little touch of colour with the mustard yellow micro Regan bag. I really liked this outfit combination too. This tee will go with so much!


Last worn: foil print tee (above), chambray maxi skirt, studded sandals, Rebecca Minkoff micro Regan bag.

Other ways to wearchambray maxi skirt in winter, studded sandals worn 30 ways, Rebecca Minkoff micro Regan bag and skinny jeans.




More Foil Print Tees Under $50:



How You Can Wear It:


A fun way to add a little more interest to a plain tee is so pick something with a print or foil detail. In this case, the tee has both, with the foil stars printed all over. It's so easy to pair tees with other pieces in your wardrobe too. While shorts and tee is a classic staple, a maxi skirt can change things up a little for something new.



Linking up with Lizzie In Lace, Style Wise, Fab Favourites, Shoe & Tell, Hello Monday, On Mondays We Link Up.



Follow Away From the Blue on:
Bloglovin
Twitter : Instagram Youtube : Facebook : Google Plus : LikeToKnow.It 

Monday 12 March 2018

Rebecca Minkoff Regan and Studded Guitar Strap with Printed Shorts & Tanks

In the Rebecca Minkoff sale I bought the Regan satchel in navy and the crystal studded guitar strap. I knew they would look great together, and they really do! Paired the bag and guitar strap combo with some fun tanks and printed shorts. These soft shorts were so helpful in the summer heatwaves.

What I wore:

Jeanswest metallic tank, printed Parker soft shorts Rebecca Minkoff guitar strap and Regan bag | awayfromblue

JORD Cora wood watch and Rebecca Minkoff regan satchel in moon navy | awayfromtheblue

awayfromtheblue instagram rebecca minkoff regan bag and embellished guitar strap with metallic tank soft shorts
Necklace: Lovisa wooden statement bead necklace
TankJeanswest Maji metallic tank in soft green and silver (on sale!)
ShortsJeanswest Parker printed shirred short
ShoesWittner 'Jasmarie' studded sandals
Bracelets: the usual plus Cora purpleheart and mother of pearl watch C/O JORD
BagRebecca Minkoff Regan Satchel Tote in moon with Rebecca Minkoff Crystal Star Shoulder Guitar strap

Why I wore it:

With the crystal embellished guitar strap and the shimmery yet subtle metallic tank, this felt like a dressier version of the standard shorts and tank outfit combo I'd been wearing all summer. I didn't wear it anywhere special though, just to work from home and do the daycare drop off pick up. I spent some time in the afternoon with my mum as we tried to get to the bottom of the washing machine troubles I've been having and I stuffed my face with cookies she brought over.

A rather uneventful day for such a pretty outfit, but I'm sure I'll wear the tank and printed shorts together again soon, I really liked the combination.


Last worn: metallic tank, Parker printed shorts, studded sandals, Rebecca Minkoff embellished guitar strap, Rebecca Minkoff Regan.

Other ways to wearmetallic tank and maxi skirt, Parker printed shorts and kimono, studded sandals and navy dress, Rebecca Minkoff embellished guitar strap and Love bag, Rebecca Minkoff Regan in the office.

Perfect for pregnancystudded sandals in second trimester.



Rebecca Minkoff Guitar Strap Review:




Where To Buy Rebecca Minkoff Guitar Straps:








What I wore:

pink satin singlet and soft blue printed relaxed shorts with Rebecca Minkoff bag, guitar strap and sandals | away from blue

OPI Koala beary pink nails and singlet with navy Rebecca Minkoff regan satchel moon | away from the blue

awayfromtheblue instagram pink satin singlet blue printed soft shorts summer SAHM style Rebecca Minkoff accessories
NecklaceJeanswest Taki necklace (C/O)
Top: Asos satin singlet in pink
ShortsJeanswest 'Scarlette' printed shorts
ShoesRebecca Minkoff Georgina studded gladiator sandals in blush
Bracelets: the usual plus Cora purpleheart and mother of pearl watch C/O JORD
BagRebecca Minkoff Regan Satchel Tote in moon with Rebecca Minkoff Crystal Star Shoulder Guitar strap
NailsOPI Koala Bear-y

Why I wore it:

How perfect is the statement necklace with the embellished bag strap?! I really loved the combination of accessories. Pulled this outfit together as I wanted to wear these shorts again. I was aiming to hit 30 wears on them by the end of summer, but as I didn't wear them weekly as I needed to in order to hit 30 wears, I didn't quite get there. These still have another 8 wears to go! I was hunting through my wardrobe for something different to wear with them. I like blue and pink together so don't know why I haven't tried this combo before.

The satin tank is another take on the shimmery metallic tank worn in the first outfit. As you can see all I did was change the colours in this outfit, otherwise it's the exact same formula. Outfit formulas are the best when you're a busy mum, you just take what you liked from a previous outfit and change a piece or two to come up with a whole new look. Easy!

Wore this for a quiet day. Ran a few errands in the morning. Before grocery shopping, we went to the opshop looking for hats for the boys. How do their heads grow so quickly?! Managed to find a hat and also picked up a pair of shorts for myself, you might have seen them in my haul video.


Last worn: satin tank, printed shorts, gladiator sandals, Rebecca Minkoff guitar strap (above), Rebecca Minkoff Regan tote (above).

Other ways to wearsatin tank and cobalt jacket, printed shorts in monochrome outfit, gladiator sandals worn 30 ways, Rebecca Minkoff guitar strap and monochrome outfit, Rebecca Minkoff Regan tote accessorised with a scarf.

Perfect for pregnancysatin tank and hidden second trimester bump.


Metallic or Satin Tanks Under $50:







How You Can Wear It:

Printed shorts and a plain tank is a staple summer outfit, and a wonderful outfit formula to follow as you can just pick a different tank for a whole new look. A plain colour will always look good with a busy print. You can add some extra interest to your tanks by choosing an interesting fabric, like metallic or satin.


Linking up with Confident Twosday, Style Sessions, Turning Heads, Wardrobe Wednesday, What I Wore, Oh Hey Girl, Style On The Daily.


Follow Away From the Blue on:
Bloglovin
Twitter : Instagram Youtube : Facebook : Google Plus : LikeToKnow.It 

Friday 9 February 2018

Two Ways to Wear: Jeanswest Elissa Leaf Print Tank

I got so many nice new wardrobe additions as Christmas presents! This top is one of them, and I got some pretty necklaces and kimonos too. While I have my 30 ways to wear series, it's nice to use the two outfit format I have in each post to show two ways to wear something too.

The beauty of this printed tank from Jeanswest is that it goes with so much in my wardrobe. It's nice and light for summer and was perfect to wear on two very hot days during some of the heatwaves we had in Brisbane.

What I wore:

summer chambray maxi skirt outfit with Jeanswest Elissa left print tank red saddle bag | awayfromblue

silver bracelet stack, Rebecca Minkoff unlined saddle bag in cherry red  | awayFromTheBlue

awayfromblue instagram summer chambray maxi skirt outfit leaf print tank red bag
EarringsJeanswest Evy dangly earring
Necklace: Lovisa gold filigree heart pendant
Tank: Jeanswest Elissa leaf print tank
SkirtNoisy May long denim maxi skirt
ShoesRebecca Minkoff Georgina studded gladiator sandals in blush
Bracelets: the usual plus vintage silver charm bracelet and silver diamonte bracelet
BagRebecca Minkoff unlined saddle bag in cherry red (on sale in blue!)

Why I wore it:

Wore this pretty tank for the first time to go out to dinner. I thought the chambray maxi skirt would be nice with the blue leaves in the print, and they are both light pieces which was perfect for the heatwave we were experiencing.

The red leaves in the print made me think of this little red saddle bag right away too. (See 30 ways to wear a red saddle bag here.) I really liked how this outfit came together. While the usual 'fashion rule' is to avoid pairing two voluminous pieces like this skirt and tank together, I've done it a few times. Sometimes you just want loose, comfortable layers, and on this super hot day it was exactly what was needed. I really liked wearing this outfit. So comfortable, and great for overindulging at dinner as the maxi skirt has an elastic waistband!


Last worn: earrings, chambray maxi skirt, studded rebecca minkoff sandals, red saddle bag.

Other ways to wearearrings and maxi dress, chambray maxi skirt worn two ways in winter, studded rebecca minkoff sandals worn 30 ways, red saddle bag worn 30 ways.








What I wore:

Summer pastel SAHM outfit silver accessories black bag blush shorts leaf print Elissa tank

Balenciaga part time in black 2010 with SGH | away from the blue

awayfromblue Instagram pastel pink leaf print tank and shorts outfit with black Balenciaga part time bag
Necklace: gifted statement silver plate necklace
TankJeanswest Elissa leaf print tank
Shorts: thrifted pastel pink cotton shorts
Shoesblack slim Havaianas thongs
BagBalenciaga part time in black 2010 with SGH

Why I wore it:

Had a fun day out planned with my mum and sister. Again, it was a hot day so I went with comfortable pieces like the printed tank and the pastel pink shorts. The tank has pink leaves in the print that match so nicely to the shorts. Just like last time I wore these shorts though, I managed to get them dirty. I'm kinda glad I thrifted these as they are confirming my suspicion that I'm just too clumsy to get white shorts or jeans, ha! It's annoying to have to try remove stains so often though.

The pretty necklace was a Christmas gift, I thought it worked really well with the neckline of the top.

There were just a few things I wasn't too happy about with this outfit. I think a different bag would have worked better, the black is a bit harsh with all the pastels. It looks okay, but I have other bags (like my metallic mini MAC) that would have looked better I think.

I also wish I'd gone for a different backdrop to show the outfit off better, it kinda blends in with the bricks. I was just looking for a shady spot to take a photo that morning though, didn't think about how it looked with my outfit. I always pick spots for their shade, I admire the bloggers that drive around looking for the perfect locations to match their outfits! It's too sunny to use my normal spot over summer, so I'm finding the shade where I can.


Last worn: leaf print tank (above), pink shorts, Havaianas, Balenciaga part time bag

Other ways to wearpink shorts and denim jacket, Balenciaga part time bag in the office

Perfect for pregnancyBalenciaga part time bag in third trimester.



Similar Leaf Print Tanks Under $50:





How You Can Wear It:


A multi coloured printed piece like this leaf print tank makes creating outfits easy. You can change up the way you wear it each time by picking clothing that matches different colours out of the print. Picking a colour out of a printed piece is a good way to pick an accessory too if you're unsure what would go best and you don't want something other than a neutral piece.




Linking up with Passion for Fashion, Lizzie In Lace, Shoe and Tell, Mix it Monday.


Follow Away From the Blue on:
Bloglovin
Twitter : Instagram Youtube : Facebook : Google Plus : LikeToKnow.It 

Friday 29 December 2017

December Purchases and 2017 Spend: Yearly Budget

Not too many purchases to share with you for December! I hope 2017 has been a good year for you, and 2018 is even better!


I did end up purchasing something off my wishlist from Rebecca Minkoff in the Cyber Monday sale, but as it didn't arrive until December I've included it in this monthly wrap up instead of November's purchases. With an extra 35% off and the items I wanted already reduced before the discount, I got a bargain! Both items together and shipping were still much less than the bag at full price. I love the Rebecca Minkoff sales!


What I Bought:

Rebecca Minkoff Regan Satchel Tote in moon worn 4 times
Rebecca Minkoff Crystal Star Shoulder Guitar strap worn 3 times
Jeanswest Brianna basque hem tank in black (gift card purchase, worn once)








How I Wore It:


It's easy to achieve my goal of wearing things twice in the month I buy them with accessories, they are frequently reworn. While I technically bought the bag and guitar strap in November, as they didn't arrive until December I count that as the month they arrive. Since I bought the tank in the post-Christmas sales at Jeanswest I didn't get a chance to wear it twice, but a good basic black tank like this is sure to get a lot of wear over the coming months.


December Purchases and Yearly Budget spend for fashion blogger away from the blue


Fashion Spend For The Year


See what I bought in August, in October, and in November.

In January I set myself the goal of 6 months without shopping. And I exceed that, managing 7 months without shopping in the end. I was curious how much more I'd save this year as a result. This year I spent $1,696.53. Only $127.58 less than last year.

Not the massive savings I'd expected, but I did excitedly splurge on an expensive bag that to be honest made up most of the total spend! I'm still pleased I managed to spend less this year, even with the splurge on the drool-worthy bag!

What I'm doing in 2018


I'm not doing another 6 months without shopping. I did have a lot of fun with it in the end. It was amazing that I could change my shopaholic ways and not only achieve but exceed the goal I set myself.

While I'm not setting myself another no-shop challenge, I am continuing with my #30wears goal. This means continuing to blog my daily outfits so I can look back and tally up how many times I've worn things, with the goal of sharing monthly something I've hit 30 wears on. The only way I can continue to do this with my clothes (I've hit it with so many of my shoes and bags already!) is to buy less.

So 2018 will be a buy less and rewear more year. You're likely to keep seeing the same few pieces on frequent rotation as I get closer to 30 wears of them. Also going to try to spend less in 2018 than I did in 2017, and continue the reduction in my spending.



Blogaversary


2018 also marks 6 years of blogging for me and 1165 posts, wow! Hope you're having as much fun reading as I am writing. I don't see myself stopping blogging any time soon, it's nice to have a little relaxing time to myself each day to browse blogs and write posts while the boys sleep.

Thank you all for your clicks, comments, shares and follows over the past few years. Have a happy new year!


Linking up with Weekend Wear, Flashback Fashion, Friday Favourites, Style Elixir.



Follow Away From the Blue on:
Bloglovin
Twitter : Instagram Youtube : Facebook : Google Plus : LikeToKnow.It