11 November 2013

Currently ... November

lace stripes

Currently loving ...

Instagram. I guess I'm not a fan of change because I always seem to be a few years behind on anything tech-related. But now that I've joined (I finally have a page! Pretty please come say hi), I am a bit ... addicted. Nothing like nosy peeks into people's everyday! As an Insta-newb, you ladies have any tips, gripes, words of wisdom on Instagram / hashtag etiquette?

Heat. We just started needing to turn on the heat in the ole homestead recently and it is awful nice. Warmer toesies!

Dracula, the TV series. Vampires? Edwardian England? Jonathan Rhys Meyers (albeit I could do sans center part)? Ass-kicking female vampire hunter? The more the merrier.

lace stripes  lace stripes

Running. I've had a treadmill (because just going outside to run means that I don't) for a while now but have really been kind of lackluster. I get on the treadmill a few times a week to break a sweat and get my 30 minutes of exercise in. However I was inspired recently by the lovely Rosa who finished the New York City Marathon earlier this month and have been logging more time to try to build speed and stamina. This past weekend I logged 3.107 miles (or 5 kilometers!) for the first time. Granted it was a combination of running-walking-running-walking but I pushed myself and didn't just phone it in. You ladies who run have any words of advice for a couch jockey who wants to wear compression capris with a purpose?

These rain boots. So I've said before that I didn't want to spend a lot of money on footwear I rarely have a chance to wear, but whilst on the hunt for some comfy cas flat boots, I got rain boots instead ... because they are comfy as heck, are virtually silent when I walk around (no clackety heels), and I figure they could pass for real boots? What do you think? Good enough or keep looking?

So what are you currently loving?

lace stripes

Sweater: Zara (worn here - sim, short-sleeve, tee)
Jeans: Old Navy flirt skinny (sim, sim)
Necklace: Asos (same w/dif chain, sim, in green)
Bracelets: Yunikelley (sim), Sage K and Co (sim, steal)
Shoes: Sole Society desirae (worn here - sim, sim, higher)
Bag: Furla martha (worn heresim, luxe, larger)

lace stripes

lace stripes

67 comments:

  1. That cute little red bag is so nice with your striped lace top! :)

    No tips for the treadmill here, but good luck with your goals! :) I have a knee injury so that rules out most exercise for me.

    Away From The Blue

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  2. My honest running advice would be get outside. Nothing compares to running outside Lisa, the treadmill is great for cold/wet days though I will give it that. As you know, I did the Amsterdam Marathon last month - imagine what sights you miss staying at home on the 'mill ;-)

    5km is good though if you struggle to get motivated - maybe try to alternate between 5km indoors and 5km outdoors on a safe, well lit, previously checked route. Don't worry about increasing the distance yet, just try to learn to love your 5km. I started with 5kms and look at me now :-D

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    1. Thanks for your tips, Lou! Do you think I should strive for running 5K steadily (i.e., running it increasingly over run-walking it) or strive for more distance while still run-walking?

      Wow, congrats for you on the marathon!

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  3. I'm loving your hair this morning! Curling iron? Flat iron?

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    1. Thanks! Curling iron for sure - and having to remind myself through the day to not touch my hair!

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  4. Love the way you styled this classic striped tee, the heels and bag are perfection! I hope you have an inspiring week ahead doll!

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  5. Those rain boots are so chic...they look just like riding boots! Definitely keep them!

    -Sharon
    The Tiny Heart

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  6. I am definitely currently loving your outfit Lisa! So simple, but really cute! I have always HATED running, so kudos to you for being so disciplined with that task! I got an Instagram, was totally into it . . . and then kinda forgot about it. But maybe soon I will be back in the saddle.

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    1. Honestly I am not a huge fan of running but it is growing on me!

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  7. Oh my! Stripes, lace, soft curls, bright lip - I love it all! You look stunning, Lisa!

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  8. I love those cobalt pumps. I've got to get a pair...it's definitely on my shopping list, and they look great with that pretty top. I adore the lace detail.
    Meredith
    createthatoutfit.com

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  9. I love the lace/striped top. With instagram, hashtag everything so other people with similar interests can find it. I would just post pics and never hashtag things at the beginning. #ootd is a blogger's best hashtag!
    -Ash
    www.thestylizedwannabe.com

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  10. I am addicted to Instagram! Just followed you. I live in much warmer temps and can't stand running indoors. When I needed to run on treadmill I've found that changing the speed or incline made it less boring for me. I had to train for a 1/2 that had a lot of hills (San Francisco) and live in an area with no hills so I trained a lot of the treadmill with a steep incline. Good luck!

    BTW - what lipstick is that? It's so pretty!

    Alice
    www.happinessatmidlife.com

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  11. wow, I love your new hairdo! And those rain boots are adorable, too! I have two pairs of rainboots but they are still sleeping in my closet. heh both hunters, one in red and one in snake!! I found the red and black at costco last month for $75!! I think they still have them!
    Whats instagram? lol I need to check it..

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    1. Unfortunately I think reg Hunters are too tall in the shaft for a shortie like me!

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  12. I'm in love with those pumps! I've been wanting that color for a while now but haven't found the right pair yet. Plus, I'm trying to ban myself from buying any new heels right now cuz I'm not sure if my feet are going to change after pregnancy (I've heard sometimes your feet get bigger!).

    KEEP the boots!

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    1. The Sole Society ones were a good deal (I think they were like $60?) and surprisingly comfy!

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  13. I love this sweater!
    I'm so glad you're on instagram :) I've been on for a while and I'm more addicted than ever. My pet peeves though are lots of hashtags, blurry selfies, and borders. Filters are ok, but the borders aren't really necessary.

    As for running, I don't really have any tips because I've been running for a long time and still struggle. I have recently been thinking about running a marathon though and I hear running clinics are the way to go. Post some running photos on instagram - ha!

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    1. I'm still trying to figure out all the filters/borders. I just learned today that you don't have to border - I had assumed some filters came with borders and you had to use them.

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  14. o_O Those boots are lovely! But I swear, zara has the slowest shipping period of all time.
    I love instagram.
    Loving sweaters and plaid lately. I always love plaid but more so in the cooler months.

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    Replies
    1. I've got pretty good luck with Zara ship time - for me, F21 orders take forever .... and recently Gap/Old Navy ones too.

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  15. I started running more seriously this past summer and it was wonderful. I used the 10K Runner app on my iphone and it built me up to running 5 miles at a time (until I had to stop because it didn't feel good after I found out I was preggo). I liked the pace of the app though, and a fun running mix is a must! I have to admit that I much prefer running outside though, running 2 miles on the treadmill feels like running 4 miles outside haha.

    Those rain boots can definitely pass for regular boots! Although I wear my Hunter's all the time as regular boots :)

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  16. Awesome outfit! Kudos to you for running. The hubs and I were into running last spring/summer but then got out of it. Sometimes I hit the treadmill for a few minutes of cardio when I'm at the fitness center but to be honest, running is not my forte (I get BORED). I always admire those that can run long distances. I talked to a friend who went from zero running to running a half marathon. She told me she just gradually worked her way up!

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    1. I guess I "cheat" with the treadmill running because I often watch something on Netflix or YouTube while I do it. And I always play with the speed, alternating between 5.5mph to 3.3mph.

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  17. I love the scarf on wrapped around the handle of your lovely red handbag.

    I am a huge fan of Jonathan but much preferred him in the Tudors. Here he almost seems bored. Plus of course this is reg TV and not nearly as sexy as the Tudors. If you get a chance watch it! You won't be disappointed. It's all about King Henry Vlll. Jonathan put the steamy in hot.

    Congrats on your 5 km! I seriously have been lame ever since I got sick this year. Now this week I'm scheduled for another medical procedure and I'm worried I'll never get back on it. I used to watch Ellen and running for the show. It was a great way not to notice that you're actually running ; )

    bisous
    Suzanne

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    1. Ooh, I've never seen Tudors but just realized that I can access it via Netflix!

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  18. Love the lace on your tee. It adds a feminine touch to a casual piece. You look great in red lipstick, Lisa. Have a wonderful week!

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  19. I don't think the boots can pass for regular boots but they look cute as rain boots.

    I can't imagine not exercising. It's been part of my life for decades. Helps with stress and makes me feel better. I run about 40 miles a week usually about 8 miles at a time. I guess that probably sounds like alot to most people but I used to swim 2-5 hours daily for years and years as a competitive swimmer. At the height of training in college, I was swimming 8.5 miles....which takes about 4 hours of solid swimming. That's 600 laps!

    I think the more often you run, it will eventually get easier. Also, to me, the hardest thing about exercising is just to get motivated to get started. Once I'm going, I'm usually fine. I do prefer the great outdoors. However, I am goal oriented so I love the treadmill too as I challenge myself for how fast, far, and long I can go. You might actually enjoy joining a running group. Usually these groups have all sorts of level of runners, and the social aspect of it really helps you to motivate to keep up with it. I bet you'll meet nice people too.

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    1. You're an inspiration, I wish I was as motivated as you!

      I've noticed myself improving while I run (running straight for longer periods without having to slow down to a walk, etc.) but I guess I am still on the need-improvements-now mentality. I may look into a running group too - none of my friends are really runners so when I do go running with a buddy, it becomes more of a chatfest with not a whole lotta exertion going on!

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  20. Cute outfit, especially the blue pumps!! Those rain boots are so chic, makes me want to get a pair!
    Love the curls on you. :)

    Choo Choo
    http://choochooli.blogspot.com

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  21. I am currently loving this outfit! haha no but really, gorgeous top, and I love your necklace. I haven't seen Dracula but I'd really like to!

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  22. Love that top! And the cobalt shoes look fantastic!

    Nikki
    thefashionablewife.com

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  23. Such a great outfit, I can´t get enough from stripes :) And wish you further many fun with instagram!

    xx from Bavaria/Germany, Rena

    www.dressedwithsoul.blogspot.de

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  24. What a beautiful bag!! I love it with this outfit so much!

    xo,
    Angela

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  25. HEEEELLLLOOOOO Gorgeous! Always so polished. And I'm stoked you have joined the rest of us IG addicts. ;)

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  26. Instagram is my fave! And love love love that top on you - too cute :)

    Annie
    The Other Side of Gray

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  27. I can't wait to start using Instagram. I am hoping to get an iphone in the next month or two. I must say that it is going to be just a little sad to give up my seven year old flip phone. ;)
    xo,cynthia

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    1. My all-time fave phone is still my old school Motorola Timeport. All it did was be a phone but it did its job really really well!

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  28. Try pinterest, tumblr and other social apps, it's super addicting! I am literally all over the place, lol! Currently stalking around people on facebook and stuff haha. I know it's pretty weird, in a good way, but I find it really interesting :) Loving that blue shoes!
    IG: haneebun

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    1. I'll check you out on IG, hanee!

      Hehe, I have a self-professed black belt in Google kungfu myself.

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  29. i'm loving Dracula and The Blacklist Lisa. totally hooked on the both of them. instagram is so much fun! i put it right up there with pinterest. you're going to get so many ideas from it. welcome! love your outfit. that bag and top are the cutest.
    http://www.averysweetblog.com/

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  30. Way to go on the 5K! I wish I had a treadmill too--it's so hard to motivate myself after work these days when it's pitch black at 5PM!
    Love your pretty curls in this post :)

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    1. I ran way less when I had to go to the gym or go outside to do it because I had to find the right time of day, had to look semi decent, etc. Granted these are probably excuses of a lazy person, but getting a treadmill makes me run more frequently - I can just jump on it and go regardless of time of day or how crappy I think I look.

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  31. If the repetition of running routine bores you try this: 3 runs a week - 1 that is shorter than your usual distance, to build up speed. 1 that is longer than your usual distance, but run deliberately slower to build up stamina. 1 that is somewhere in the middle with some undulating hills to build up leg strength. This was the advice I was given by a running clinic as a good way to build up speed and distance, but not necessarily at the same time.

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    1. Thanks for the advice, Sophia. One thing I am struggling with right now is to try to build the time I am consistently running non-step and not having to break into a walk. I am currently only running 3-4 minutes tops before I have to break to walking (I usually let myself walk for 1 minute). Your advice is a good possibility to help me build into more steadily running time.

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  32. Oh snap! I see now that your top is different from mine, which was the one from Anthro last year. Anyway, thanks for thr styling idea, you look great in this! :)

    I'm with you on enjoying insta, it's great isn't it? And it's fun to have you on there, too! I'm also currently loving having an oil heater instead of electric - so much warmer! :3

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    1. The Anthro top you're talking about is nice - the lace part is sheer on it, isn't it? Little bit of sexy!

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  33. About time you joined, girl! I like how in the one week that you've been a member, you've already Instagrammed more photos than I have in the last... year, hahaha.

    Absolutely love this outfit with the curled hair and red lips!

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    1. Haha, this will probably turn into how I do my Pinterest - not touch it at all for a week or two, then suddenly pin 25 things in two hours, then go back to being pin silent.

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  34. Very cute look, and Dracula sounds good :)

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  35. I really like red lipstick on you !! and right now I am coveting yet another initial necklace....

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    Replies
    1. Monogram necklaces are pretty hard to resist. Who can help wanting something personalized? I actually have three myself ...

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  36. I love the lace trim of your top, so cute!

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  37. Love love LOVE this!! That blouse is so pretty and I love the color of those shoes, plus that lip color looks gorgeous on you!!
    Jessi
    http://haircutandgeneralattitude.blogspot.com

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  38. Your top is so pretty! I love the shape of it! Actually, your whole outfit is gorgeous!

    Please vote for me -->http://www.onlineshoes.com/monthly-shoe-styling-contest

    http://kacieskloset.blogspot.com/

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  39. I remember that top. I wish I would have gotten it. It is so pretty! I still am not on Instagram. I just can't do it!

    So you are more tech savvy than me.

    Jenni

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    1. If you're not on IG, then you are spending way less time on your phone than I am on mine!

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  40. This is such a chic outfit! Stripes are always a 'yes' in my book, and I love the look of ankle pants with pointed heels or flats!

    ~Jacy
    www.laviedelenore.blogspot.com

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  41. perfect combination, dear! just love it <3

    what do you think about following each other? just let me know)
    keep in touch, xoxo
    http://yuliasi.blogspot.ru/
    love, Yulia

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  42. Looking cute as always Lisa!!! Love your striped top and the pops of color here and there. I'm so glad you are enjoying Instagram now!!! I'm still soooo addicted to it. I have so much fun peeking through everyone's every day lives, hehehe. I'll be sure to add you!!!

    www.thejoyoffashionblog.com

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  43. I so like the blue of your shoes and the blue in that clever handkerchief you twisted around the handle of theat cute bag. Great outfit.
    And rain boot... hmmm keep looking. I don't particularly like the front. (Sorry.)
    Greetje

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  44. Love your blue heels, they really pop with the black & white ensemble. I'm a treadmill girl. So I can't give advise on outdoor running. I will say this, running is awesome, if it's your cup of tea. Start slow, build up your endurance and stamina, don't worry about not being able to run for long distances or fast. That will come with time and effort, consistency is key. I wish you luck!

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