30 May 2013

Inquiring Mind Wants to Know ...

embroidered mini

All I seem to have are questions lately, so here are some more for you -

When you have to ask yourself whether or not you're too old to wear something before you buy it, does that mean you probably are too old for it?

I think all this social media Everything nowadays makes for some rude people. Do people need to be reminded of their manners even online or do out-of-touchers like me just need to learn to adapt?

Have our favorite retailers done their jobs so well that nowadays when we see a $50 t-shirt, we think it's a deal? Macklemore would be displeased.

embroidered mini  embroidered mini

How do you judge whether a blog makes it to your "regular read" rotation?

I'm looking for a warm weather purse. Would like a light-hued leather, am not sure if I want a satchel or crossbody though, but def medium-sized. I'm kind of considering this bag, but I'm not sure if the stripes are kind of hokey or not - though I like the stripes. Are there any summer-y bags catching your eye right now? What kind of bag do you ladies tote your stuff in when it's warmer out?

The Pioneer Woman - love, can't stand, meh? (I dig her cooking show, kind of can't stand her web site).

(I'm a lucky gal and will be spending some time in Vienna and Paris over the next few weeks - albeit for work but still! If you globetrotters have any recs on things I must see, do or eat, I've love to know!)

 embroidered mini

 embroidered mini

Blazer: Ann Taylor, buttons replaced (worn here - sim, sim, sim)
Top: F21 bejeweled georgette (worn here - sim, sim, peter pan)
Skirt: Zara jacquard mini (sim red, bluer, simpler)
Bracelets: Asos, F21, Sage K and Co via Etsy (sim, sim, sim)
Shoes: Sperry serena (sim metallic, pricey, luxe)

65 comments:

  1. Love the blazer! Indeed, what a lucky girl - enjoy your vacation!
    http://www.tinacious.me

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  2. Actually, I cannot, cannot stand the Pioneer woman tv show. Why? I have never seen such a terrifying, eyes staring at you, fake sounding voice. I seriously cannot stand it, but I love her recipes so much that I am completely torn. I have started exclusively just reading her cookbooks so I can close my eyes and not have that super terrifying voice and eyes in my head! So funny that we are opposite.

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    1. Haha, I think what I enjoy about her TV show is the lifestyle she portrays on TV - idealistic stylized ranch living. And though I've never tried any of her recipes, I like that she makes "man-happy" food!

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  3. Those are lots of interesting questions!

    I do think like you, if I'm wondering if something is too young for me then maybe it is. Normally what will happen is I'll buy it, think it looks great in the mirror, get home take a photo of it and then ask myself if what the heck I was thinking or wonder if they had trick mirrors at the shop. I do find that what I can wear all depends on my mood. Some days I feel older than others.

    A t-shirt needs to be pretty darn special for me to want it at $50.

    A regular rotation blog would be one that I find interesting or engaging to read on a regular basis. Or where they think outside of the box with regards to fashion and use or mix things up in a way that I wouldn't consider. I am constantly trying to edit my list though since it grows and grows and there isn't enough time in the day. I find I spend way to much time on other people's blogs instead of focusing on my own content. Case in point...here I am : )

    Social media makes it easy to be rude. It's another case of being "disconnected" to the people that you are actually communicating with. They don't think that person has feelings. I try to do as my Mother taught me, if you don't have anything nice to say, don't say anything at all.

    At the same time it is good to exchange ideas and that sometimes includes disagreeing with people. You can go about it in a polite manner though.

    Are you travelling for work again? I'm heading to France next week but I've heard that the weather is awful : ( You might need to take some rain gear with you.

    bisous
    Suzanne

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    1. I totally think some stores have trick mirrors that make me look super-fab when I don't really ...

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  4. You look great! I'm with you on the too old the wear quandary, of course I'm around 7th graders all day, so I definitely know what not to wear, but things like skirt lengths always make me second guess if I'm too old to sport it. Have fun on vacation, you lucky lady!
    Ginny

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  5. I often encounter the "am I too old for this" question. My husband says no skirt is too short for me, but hates them other people, and won't hesitate to be judgy. Double standard? You bet :)

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  6. LOL.

    Whether you're too old: probably, but if you love it, buy it anyway.
    Manners: I believe in them.
    $50 T-shirt: I don't think it's a deal, but if I love it, I might buy it.
    Regular blogs: if I enjoy reading it and it's in my Reader (or Feedly now that Google Reader is going away), it's a regular read. :)
    Warm weather purse: I have pretty much the same bag as I use in the winter (Marc Jacobs Hobo), but my summer purse is a light turquoise and my winter bag is black.
    Pioneer Woman: I'm the other way around. Don't like her cooking show, but like her website when there are pictures of her Basset Hound. :)

    Your bejewelled top is awesome!

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  7. I love the skirt. So fun.
    I tend to always want what is not plausible in my life. For instance, I would buy your skirt in a heartbeat...and wear it once or twice, since shorter skirts are not really compatible with 2 and 4 yr old boy activities.
    I prefer not to spend $50 on a tee...I will wait out a sale.
    Manners are a must. Just because you are not physically face to face does not mean you have free reign of your mouth.
    I like some of PW recipes. Don't have time to watch her and her website is far too messy for me to follow. I NEVER look at it. Too much going on.

    Enjoy Paris and Vienna...sounds so romantic!

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    Replies
    1. Thanks! Too bad Paris and Vienna will just be me and my co-workers. Not so romantic, haha.

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  8. I ask myself all the time if I'm too old to wear certain things. Crop tops are making me feel ANCIENT because I certainly can't pull that off and they're everywhere.

    -Sharon
    The Tiny Heart
    Bracelet Giveaway!

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    1. The fitted crop top with full skirt look? I find it really cute but no way am I going to go for it. Taylor Swift can have that one.

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    2. The crop tops make me feel old, and I just turned 22. I feel like those are a style for a very specific body-type.

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  9. Chez Janou in Paris. It's a hidden (albeit, Rick Steves-endorsed) gem. It's a fusion of French and mediterranean food... and hands down the best food I've ever eaten.

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    1. Thanks for the rec, I'm going to look it up!

      (And my dad loooooooooooooves Rick Steves, so I've watched my share of his shows).

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  10. I like that purse for summer, am considering the Biennial in Linen plus Leather. I think that neutral background is very seasonal and the stripes are....FUN!
    I bought a dress and had my teenage son weigh in like 3 times on its age-appropriateness but then when I went to return it, I simply could NOT do so! Even he noted that if I were SO concerned, probably I wouldn't wear it. But I have! So what if it reminds me of Gunne Sax circa 1975 (when in fact it is Bryon Lars circa 2012!), I do love it!

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    Replies
    1. When it comes down to it, if you love a piece, rock it!

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  11. 1) That stripey purse is charming and adorable and ridicuoulsly summery. love.
    2) Pioneer Woman. I've been only so-so impressed with her recipies, her book earned my lowest rating EVER given, and I unsubscribed from her blog years ago because I just can't stand her most of the time.
    3) For me, a "regular read" has to have good content. And for me, that usually means words, not pretty photos. I have a folder in my reader for "Favorite" blogs, on for "Mildly Entertaining" blogs, one for "No Comment" blogs, and two that are strictly photos only and often get marked "read all" instead of actually perused because who has the time? Also, bloggers who host too many contests (for me, that is more than 1 or 2 per month) are automatically deleted.

    xox

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    1. I agree with the PW. I can't stand to go to her blog, I can't ever find anything.

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  12. LOVE this skirt!

    Re: Social media...I find that some people are great in real life but VERY difficult to be online friends with. That's why I LOVE the "block from newsfeed" feature on fb, for example.

    Re: Having to ask if you're too old for something...unfortunately, probably (if you're asking you probably are). I'm always disappointed when I shop w/my 17 yr old step daughter & we both pull the same thing off the rack.

    Have so much fun in Europe! Jealous!!

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    1. Totally had no idea there was a "block from newsfeed" option. Interesting ...

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  13. I think the J. Crew bag is great - but it just depends on if you want a more traditional one or a "trendier" one. $50 for a t-shirt? A bit much for me :) I *just* saw that skirt on Zara's website yesterday and thought it was the cutest!

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  14. i often think that... but then someone will look at me, state i'm only 28 and i usually say screw it. ;) i think the blazer adds an adult layer to this outfit - i really like it.
    i think the bag is cute, but i may get tired of the stripes. whats your price range? i love handbags!

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    1. I don't have a particular price range but I wouldn't spend more than a few hundred bucks on something and at that, it would be something I loooove and can see myself carrying for a few seasons.

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  15. I love your outfit and all of these questions!

    About social media: no, I don't think you should adapt. Indeed, I refuse to do so. I think that people need to look up the definition of a few words: namely, manners and tact. It's totally okay to disagree with people, but often, I find that people use social media to say things they would never say face-to-face.

    About my "regular read" blog rotation: I gravitate to bloggers, like you, who engage with their readers. I'm really turned off by bloggers who blog in isolation with no attention to their readers.

    Thanks for this fabulous post, as always!

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  16. The print on this skirt is fantastic! I love the blazer with it too :)

    As for your questions...

    I think social media is a great tool, and I like to utilize it as much as I can, but I do NOT think it gives people the right to be rude (or lazy). Social media is a privilege that we have and people shouldn't abuse it.

    $50 T-shirts are ridiculous and the bane of my existence. That really is what thrift stores are for!

    I guess the blogs that make it into my daily reads are the ones who are run by women who I really connect with. Sometimes it's because I'm inspired by their style consistently, sometimes it's because I feel like I can relate to them, sometimes it's just because they're interesting reads. Any blogger who makes me laugh is at the top of my list.

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  17. Oh, I like this post! I think it's so fun to read other people's answers!

    I sort of have the opposite problem as far as the age thing goes. At 23, I'm still trying to figure out what is most age appropriate, since I'm young enough to love big cartoon graphics but old enough to love sleek, understated suit sets.

    I don't think online rudeness (or any rudeness, really) is ever warranted, but I consider the whole online experience to be an expansion of the people you would get to meet in real life. The way I see it, there are bound to be people exceptionally different from yourself, and you will likely meet someone beyond rude/tactless. I admit that I mostly find it really weird that people have internet personas so removed from their real life selves.

    50 dollar t-shirts make me sad, because I can't afford them and they don't seem at all worth the price. Blogs definitely made it easier for me to spend money, but it also made me realize a lot about what I should be looking for. Double-edged sword.

    Blogs usually make some sort of immediate impact! I usually get drawn in by the pictures or the writing, and then they get put on probation - I follow the blog via bloglovin', but don't categorize it until I'm sure I want to continue reading :D I really do have a system haha!

    I think the bag is adorable, but I will admit that my first reaction was "Vive la revolution!" haha! The bag would be utterly fitting for your upcoming trip to France, no?

    I didn't even know the Pioneer Woman had a show. Delicious looking recipes aside, I find the blog obnoxious, but I can't put my finger on why at all!

    Wishing you have a wonderful time in France, even if it's for work! I've never been, so no suggestions, but I would love to see you do some posts on how you prepared/packed for the trip and where you went!

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    1. Re: the bag comment, I totally have the French national anthem going through my head now every time, I see the bag, haha!

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  18. Gosh what a lot of questions at once. I think Suzanne Carillo said exactly what I wanted to say. I will add something on the rudeness on internet though. Sometimes it is also a cultural thing. I am Dutch and we tend to be very straight forward and direct. Me in particular. I only want to be honest and I try to "wrap" it as kindly as possible. But if I have ever offended you be not liking something for instance (what I can hardly imagine as you are almost always amazing), then I apologize. I just want you to know that my comments are honest which means I could never agree with everything. We people differ too much for that.

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    1. I work with a lot of Dutch and I appreciate your straight-forwardness and you totally have never said anything I felt was out-of-place or considered rude. I like Elana's comment above, that I think social media can make some people lazy, which leads to shortcuts, being short with someone, etc.

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    2. Oh good.
      I read Elana's comment and I agree. Also on her outlook which blogs to follow. I like yours because you often make me laugh, because you have a great sense of styling and because you often give insights of your life and I think I would like you a lot in real life.

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  19. I don't want PW's cooking show, but I do read her website! I miss the photography section though (or did it just move somewhere that I can't find?). I've tried several recipies of hers and only about half have turned out ok for me, so that's kind of disappointing.

    As for a summer purse, I have this Coach straw tote that has been used for about 5 summers. A straw-ish purse just screams summer time!!

    Taylor

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  20. The other day it occurred to me that I'll never resolve the question of what's age-appropriate for me - I remember loving a straight blue silk faille dress, plain but beautifully fitted, and my mom said "It's way too old for you." If I had thin thighs, I'd wear minis in my coffin, and you can bet that coffin would be OPEN for viewing.

    I find all cooking shows kind of irritating, because while I cook a lot, I don't have an unseen crew to prep, put each little ingredient in its own little glass dish, keep the counters clear, and clean up. If my apartment had come with a stage crew for the kitchen, I'd probably entertain more.

    For some course or other, I had to read a novel which took place in Germany in the 1930's, the money was losing value by the minute and if you got paid in the morning, you had to rush to buy the week's groceries before the new rates were announced at noon and your money would be worth less. I think of that every time the price of a stupid teeshirt rises, with less material, synthetic thread and fabric, and strange necklines....

    what a great list of questions!

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    1. It's no secret I am a huge J.Crew fan but it peeves me to no end that JC staples like the chino short, jackie cardigan, etc. keep rising in price from season to season.

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  21. I always love your questions!
    I often feel silly when I write on my blog because I feel I cant type out what I want to say. Manners, well...sadly I have had the bad end of the "online manners" topic. I have found that its easy for others to be rude and make rude comments when they are hiding behind their computer, also, if they get someone to agree with them, then it fuels their fire. "Misery loves company" is what I always say. Having said that, it's still hurtful.

    I've never watched the pioneer woman, sadly, my TV shows consist of Disney channel shows and Sponge Bob, (motherhood..kiss your TV shows goodbye)!

    Rosalyn
    www.just2fancy.com

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    1. I agree, it sometimes can be too easy for people to be purposefully rude when they've got a computer to hide behind.

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  22. I love love love that skirt. And the way you styled it is perfect!
    Meredith
    createthatoutfit.com

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  23. Okay, lady! You are once again a lifesaver! I needed an idea for tomorrow's copy since it's my 100th post but I was drawing a writer's block blank. Lisa to the rescue! I hope you don't mind my pinging back to you when I respond to all your questions on my blog. Fun!

    And may I say how absolutely stunning you look today? I especially love the leaning against the wall shot. And navy might as well be your signature color; it looks that freaking cute on!

    www.myclosetcatalogue.com

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  24. Interesting questions Lisa. Being an older gal, if I hear myself thinking if this is too old...I normally pass but then you look at Tina Turner who was rocks the mini skirt - you know if you've got the confidence you can wear it.

    I am not much a fan of Pioneer Women, the food that she makes are typically not very healthy and is probably made to be eaten by people that work on the ranch all day and not at a desk.

    Your skirt is adorable! I like it with your fun jeweled top.

    Alice
    www.happinessatmidlife.com

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  25. Hi Lisa :),
    I've been neglecting your blog lately.I'm sorry!
    I'm so glad to hear you'll be in Austria... That's so close to Slovenia and me... So cool!
    This outfit is so cute.Nice shoes...
    Have a great stay in Europe :)!
    XOXOXO

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  26. Les Papilles (in the 5th), La Regalade Saint-Honore (in the 1st) and caramels from Jacques Genin (110 euros per kilo) are all wonderfully delicious!

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    1. Food is my fave part about traveling, so thanks for these recs!

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  27. I love this look! That top is so fun and I looove the blazer!
    As for being too old for stuff, I'm not sure, I haven't really thought of hat yet, ha ha
    So jealous of your (work) trips! I want to go back to Paris
    http://www.closet-fashionista.com/

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  28. Such a cute outfit! Especially the skirt, it's gorgeous! Great pic :)


    www.debrabros.blogspot.com.au x

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  29. Such a great blazer - and to focus on one question: I am a huge fan of my Michael Kors tote for all seasons...although I also have a stand-by cross body bag that gets a lot of use.

    Courtney ~ http://sartorialsidelines.com

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  30. Some people just need manners. Period.

    I feel that I am too old for: shorts, crop tops, short dresses, short skirts, tight skirts... the list goes on. I keep purchasing floor-length and below-the-knee hemlines. I don't know. Just feeling old this season? Ha!

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  31. i love this outfit!! so cute! all the little details make it just pop! especially your collar.. LOVE LOVE the beading!!

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  32. I absolutely ADORE your skirt. In fact, the whole darn ensemble is sensational!

    In response to your questions...

    When you have to ask yourself whether or not you're too old to wear something before you buy it, does that mean you probably are too old for it?

    HMMM! Good question. I think it depends on the item on question, and how you choose to wear it! Am I too old to pair Converse Chucks with a cute little skater dress these days? Prooobably. Could I team the dress with some other footwear, and the Chucks with some jeans? Sure!

    I think all this social media Everything nowadays makes for some rude people. Do people need to be reminded of their manners even online or do out-of-touchers like me just need to learn to adapt?

    Absolutely. Manners should exist both online AND offline!

    Have our favorite retailers done their jobs so well that nowadays when we see a $50 t-shirt, we think it's a deal? Macklemore would be displeased.

    Yikes! I would *never* consider $50 to be a good (or even slightly reasonable!) price for a t-shirt. No, no, NO!

    How do you judge whether a blog makes it to your "regular read" rotation?

    If I enjoy the writer's content, then BAM! Into my Google Reader it goes :)

    I'm looking for a warm weather purse. Would like a light-hued leather, am not sure if I want a satchel or crossbody though, but def medium-sized. I'm kind of considering this bag, but I'm not sure if the stripes are kind of hokey or not - though I like the stripes. Are there any summer-y bags catching your eye right now? What kind of bag do you ladies tote your stuff in when it's warmer out?

    I'm a handbag woman all the way, but what about a cute tote?

    The Pioneer Woman - love, can't stand, meh? (I dig her cooking show, kind of can't stand her web site)

    *gulp* I've never heard of The Pioneer Woman!

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  33. Not a fan of Pioneer show, but do enjoy recipes from the blog very much. I don't feel like the show translated very well like the blog does. I guess cuz I can project more when reading. The tv show brings everything to life, incl her personality. Which isn't bad. It's just all different than the impression I got from her blog. I enjoy watching her success. It's impressive.

    Love the F21 top and the texture on your skirt. Chic, lady :)

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  34. Love how you put together all the pieces to create a polished professional but still fun & flirty look. I'm always so entertained by your questions!

    Rebecca
    www.redtagchiclosangeles.com

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  35. I LOVE this look! Probably one of my favorites! I love that skirt!!
    ~Jessica
    Jeans and a Teacup

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  36. The embellishments on the top and beautiful. You hit the nail on the head with the color combo again!

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  37. I love the fit, texture, and print of your skirt!

    That sounds like an amazing trip (even if it is technically for work :-)! I've never been to Vienna, but RE Paris, here are a few of my faves: Laduree for macarons; Angelina for hot chocolate (yes, even if it is scorching outside!); Berthillon for ice cream; and the Musee de l'Orangerie in the Jardin de Tuileries. Have a great time!

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  38. If you can find time to do the guided tour of the Palais Garnier, don't miss it. Otherwise, it's still worth a visit because it's just so opulent and beautiful. If you're up for some adventure, I highly recommend the segway tour as a fun way to look at attractions, learn about history and cover lots of ground in Paris. As for food, Cafe George V has good food (I've had good food everywhere while I was in Paris though) and Pierre Herme for macarons! I had blogged about my trip last so here: http://wp.me/p2SPZ4-ms Beware of pickpockets though!

    fauxionista.com

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  39. As for the regular blog rotation question:
    For me, it honestly depends on whether I can remember the domain name! :| Also, I love craft blogs.
    Liz
    http://liz-makes.blogspot.com/

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  40. Hmmm... you do have a lot of questions.
    I think people should be reminded when they are rude, there is no excuse for that.

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  41. Heyy Lisa...

    I love that skirt and the accessory are gorg! You look really cute!

    http://simplysassysstyle.blogspot.com/

    Dawn

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  42. I'm with Macklemore. I'm not paying $50 for a t-shirt.

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  43. i think $50 for a shirt is still expensive, haha. ;)

    p.s. can't wait to hear all about vienna and paris!

    <3, Mimi

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  44. I'm gonna answer all your questions because I feel like it.

    1. So, for the longest time, I thought you can only shop at Forever 21 if you're under 21. I'm 22 now. While that's not super true... I am migrating towards only trying out trends at Forever 21... if I want something for work, I'm trying to go to other stores.

    2. Nevermind. I don't really have an opinion on this question. Skipping it.

    3. I totally know what you mean! My mom was retelling me a story where her friend brought an 80 dollar pair of gauchos when Ross had the same brand for 15 dollars.

    4. I don't know... There are blogs that I don't comment on regularly that I read regularly. And blogs that I visit for information and others for the personality behind the blog. I guess if I know the person behind the blog, it's a regular read.

    5. I'm staying away from summer bags... saving up for a work bag.

    6. Really can't stand her blog? I don't love every recipe, but I like her.

    7% Solution​

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  45. If you have to ask, the answer is yes. Because at that point your mind is made up and you are secretly hoping someone else will change it.

    $50 for a tee shirt is way too much. Yet Zara, the $90 store, is starting to convince me that $90 is an acceptable amount to spend on a blazer.

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