Search: pally

Insomniac Sale Picks: Formal White Dresses

by Sally on August 7, 2012 · 2 comments

*In this late-night feature – which will run Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday of each week – I’ll gather up three fun items that are currently on sale online and share them with you! I would LOVE suggestions: Stylish wide-width pumps? Classic v-necked sweaters? Chandelier earrings? Petite dress slacks? What would you like to see featured?*

Molly requested a few picks for formal white dresses – ones that might double as wedding dresses, but are also versatile enough for non-wedding wear – so here we go:

Laundry by Shelli Segal Multi Oval Lace Dress – was $245, now $170.99

While this could certainly function as a summer frock, the intricate lacy overlay and detailed hem make it a great formal option, too. Add simple jewelry, classic shoes, and a sheer wrap for a lovely ensemble. Available in sizes 0 – 12.

Strapless Wrap-front Chiffon Maxi Dress – now $69.99

Totally bending the rules for this one since it’s not currently on sale, but oh my goodness is it ever pretty. Yes, it’s from Target. And yes, this view isn’t the best. But click through to see this in brown on a model. I think it could totally work for a casual wedding. Add colorful accessories for non-bride wearage.

Cynthia Steffe Bethany Dress – was $365, now $255.99

I love Cynthia Steffe’s designs, and this dress has such fun details. From the shirred mesh overlay, kicky pleated skirt, and flattering sweetheart neckline, to the cute little keyhole cutout in the back. This dress could be taken in a very retro direction or kept clean and classic. Available in sizes 0 -10.

Rachel Pally Kimber Maxi Dress – was $233, now $179

I’m including this as a fourth option because it’s only available in sizes XXS and XS. But as a huge Rachel Pally fan, I couldn’t resist this flowy, elegant, and undoubtedly cozy-comfortable white jersey maxi dress. I’d totally get married in this. If I were an XXS or XS. (Available on Zappos in plus sizes, too!)

Other not-currently-on-sale resources for striped full skirts:

  1. J.Crew Wedding – This is where I send just about everyone who asks for formal dress options. The actual wedding dresses are spendy, but some of the bridesmaid options are just as lovely and less expensive. Especially if you don’t mind non-white options like gray or seafoam.
  2. eDressme – Another great source for formal dresses of all kinds!
  3. eBay – A great choice if you’re searching for a specific style, size, fabric or any other criterion. And, as always, eBay will cover a huge range of price points.

**Disclosure: Actions you take from the hyperlinks within this blog post may yield commissions for alreadypretty.com. See Already Pretty’s disclosure statement for more details.

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Insomniac Sale Picks: Bra-friendly Maxi Dresses

by Sally on July 12, 2012 · 5 comments

*In this late-night feature – which will run Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday of each week – I’ll gather up three fun items that are currently on sale online and share them with you! I would LOVE suggestions: Stylish wide-width pumps? Classic v-necked sweaters? Chandelier earrings? Petite dress slacks? What would you like to see featured?*

Stephanie requested a few picks for bra-covering maxi dresses, so here we go:

Ellen Tracy Crepe De Chine Maxi Dress – was $118, now $94.99

Cap sleeves aren’t my favorite style, but these are slanted with a slight flutter so they’re not as bad as they could be. AND they’ll definitely cover bra straps! This vibrant orange is extremely on-trend, and I love the tiny (and bra-safe) tear-shaped cut-out in the back. Available in sizes 2 – 12.

Karen Kane Painted Maxi Dress – was $138, now $110.99

I love Karen Kane maxis and wear them frequently myself, but a few styles do tend to show bra at the neckline. This style is cut a bit higher in both front and back, so should offer full coverage. And such a gorgeous print! Available in sizes XS – XL.

Hive & Honey Variegated Striped Knit Maxi – was $59, now $39.99

If you prefer a straighter skirt, this striped tank-style maxi is a great bet. And a great bargain! Nice wide straps and a high back mean this dress is likely to offer full coverage for most bra styles. I can see this one with boots and a denim jacket for fall, too. Available in sizes XS – L.

Other not-currently-on-sale resources for bra-covering maxi dresses:

  1. Karen Kane – Many of my favorite maxi dresses hail from Karen Kane. They’re all high backed and wide-strapped, though they can be a little low cut. Generally fine with a bit of fashion tape, at least for me. Get 30% off on select maxis with code ALREADYPRETTY30 – details here. Plus sizes, too.
  2. Piperlime – More cap, short, and even long-sleeved versions than most. Also see their selection of mouth-watering Rachel Pally maxis. LOVE!
  3. Zappos - Mostly through sheer volume – 756 options – but there are some great picks in there. I love this pink striped option. Petite and plus sizes, too.

**Disclosure: Actions you take from the hyperlinks within this blog post may yield commissions for alreadypretty.com. See Already Pretty’s disclosure statement for more details.

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Dressed for: The High Seas

by Sally on June 7, 2012 · 16 comments

Already Pretty outfit featuring Happify City of Lakes shirt, teal shirt, Rachel Pally striped maxi skirt, wrap bracelet

Graphic shirt, Happify via I Like You
Teal tank, Bella Brand
Striped maxi skirt- Rachel Pally
Boots, Diesel Go-go (no longer available) - similar - more Diesel boots
Bracelet, a necklace via Clemoon – similar look
Earrings, courtesy Metalicious

Hmm. I wasn’t consciously aware of it, but it appears that I’m harboring a secret ambition to sail the high seas as a pirate. This is the second pirate-y outfit in the past three weeks. Anyone care to take me aboard?

This skirt just begs to be twirled and swirled about. I can’t even help myself.

**Disclosure: Actions you take from the hyperlinks within this blog post may yield commissions for alreadypretty.com. See Already Pretty’s disclosure statement for more details.

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Insomniac Sale Picks: Plus-sized Full Skirts

by Sally on May 3, 2012 · 2 comments

*In this late-night feature – which will run Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday of each week – I’ll gather up three fun items that are currently on sale online and share them with you! I would LOVE suggestions: Stylish wide-width pumps? Classic v-necked sweaters? Chandelier earrings? Petite dress slacks? What would you like to see featured?*

DeeDee requested a few picks for plus-sized full skirts, so here we go:

Rachel Pally Full Knit Skirt – was $154, now $102.90

Yep, that’s a lot for a knit skirt. But I am completely enamored of my own Rachel Pally skirt, and can vouch for quality construction and great design. I adore this print, and feel like the swingy, lightweight style will be ideal for spring and summer wear. Available in 1X – 3X.

DKNYC Pleated A-Line Skirt – was $129, now $77.99
PLUS an additional 20% off with code MOM

Oh yes. Red. Red, pleated, full, and gorgeous. It’s even machine washable! Pair this skirt with a patterned blouse for work, or a leather jacket and sparkly heels for evening. Available in sizes 16 – 24 in this red and basic black.

Vince Camuto Long Mesh Skirt – was $89, now $58.90

Friends, if you dig my own tulle skirt, this is your lucky day. It’s black, yes, but has all the soft, layered loft of a grown-up tutu. The midi length may be a turn off for some, but it’ll look utterly elegant on many. Available in 1X – 3X.

Other not-currently-on-sale resources for plus-sized full skirts:

  1. ASOS Curve – So many cute full skirts, and NONE of them on sale. Gingham! Paperbag waist! Bah!
  2. Land’s End – Many are A-lines, but there are a handful of cute full skirts in there.
  3. Nordstrom - Since two of tonight’s picks hail from this vendor, this is a “duh.” But there were at least a dozen non-sale options that had me drooling, including loads of pretty pleated skirts. There’s even a trendy high-low hem offering.
  4. 6pm.com – A surprising number of cute full skirts! Search for “plus skirt” to see options.

**Disclosure: Actions you take from the hyperlinks within this blog post may yield commissions for alreadypretty.com. See Already Pretty’s disclosure statement for more details.

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Insomniac Sale Picks: Comfy, Casual Maxi Dresses

by Sally on February 8, 2012 · 6 comments

*In this late-night feature – which will run Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday of each week – I’ll gather up three fun items that are currently on sale online and share them with you! I would LOVE suggestions: Stylish wide-width pumps? Classic v-necked sweaters? Chandelier earrings? Petite dress slacks? What would you like to see featured?*

Nadine requested a few picks for comfy, casual maxi dresses, so here we go:

NY Collection Cap Sleeve Surplice Maxi – was $58, now $39.99

Most maxi dresses have the dreaded Designated Boob Room, and this one is no exception … but with a surplice style neckline it may be more flexible and accommodating than most. I would absolutely buy and wear this maxi myself: Flattering deep V, high waistline, flared skirt, and machine washable. Love it. Available in sizes S to XL.

Lauren by Ralph Lauren Darcie Scoopneck Maxi – was $159, now $99

This simple tank has a lot less structure, but still features a nice, full skirt. Naturally, I adore the simple black and white stripes, and this cotton/modal/spandex blend is sure to have a great drape. 56″ long, available in S, M, and L.

Rachel Pally Jo Dress - was $238, now $139.99

Having purchased my first Rachel Pally jersey knit item – this skirt – I am head over heels. This maxi is still pricey even on sale, but it is SO gorgeous in that deep teal color, and I’m loving the detailed straps and the sweetheart neckline. Plus, if my experience with RP’s wares is any indicator, it’ll be both comfy and insanely flattering. Available in sizes XS – L.

Other not-currently-on-sale resources for comfy, casual maxi dresses:

  1. Target – People, Target is lousy with maxi dresses. Even this early in the season! This convertible one is a particular fave.
  2. ASOS - With 202 maxi dresses, including plus and petite options, definitely worth a peek.
  3. Alloy – This is a juniors retailer but although sizes may run smaller, they carry XS through XXXL. And they’ve got several cute maxis, including a darling style with sleeves!
  4. Nordstromicon - Not quite as robust as ASOS, but with 113 offerings that also include some lovely plus styles, Nordstrom still has tons of great maxi options. I saw at least six that made me sigh.

**Disclosure: Actions you take from the hyperlinks within this blog post may yield commissions for alreadypretty.com. See Already Pretty’s disclosure statement for more details.

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Dressed for: Decompressing and Debriefing

by Sally on January 26, 2012 · 10 comments

Already Pretty outfit featuring capelet, Rachel Pally striped maxi skirt, Kork Ease Boots

Cowl/capelet, courtesy Eileen Fisher
Black long-sleeved tee, Target
Striped maxi skirt, Rachel Pally via Piperlime
Boots, Kork-Ease via eBay (no longer available) - similar
Earrings, PureKatherine – similar

Last night’s event was a rousing success! We had an absolute blast, and are so grateful to all the amazing women who came out and asked amazing questions and gave us their feedback. You can check out some photos over on the Strong, Sexy & Stylish Facebook page.

Today I feel like a wad of putty, as you can imagine. So I dressed in comfy, cozy, drapey layers to do some post-event errands and attend a debriefing session with Sarah Von.

**Disclosure: Actions you take from the hyperlinks within this blog post may yield commissions for alreadypretty.com. See Already Pretty’s disclosure statement for more details.

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Casual Outfit Roundup: Week of November 6

by Sally on November 12, 2011 · 23 comments

Already Pretty outfit featuring leather moto jacket, vintage silk scarf, Rachel Pally striped maxi skirt, Frye Engineer 8R
Leather moto, Levi’s via Amazon – in brown - similar
Black tee, Target
Striped maxi skirt, Rachel Pally via Piperlime
Scarf, via Rice and Beans Vintage
Boots, Frye Engineer 8R 

Well. So. Last weekend was Art Attack, which means I was deprived of my husband for three straight days. And although I have big plans to purchase a remote and learn about the tripod, they keep getting backburnered. So, due to bad planning on my part, we only got photos of one outfit. Luckily, I kinda love it. So I’ll give you a photo-heavy post and some details.

This skirt was a splurge. Oh, yes it was. I did use the 15% off that Piperlime gives for signing up for their e-newsletter, but still. And this skirt is cut for someone who is approximately 14 feet tall so it’s hiked up to my braline. But I cannot let it go. It is soft and full and warm and comfy and has that marvelous heavy-knit bounce when I walk. I adore it. And it spins very, very well:

Already Pretty outfit featuring leather moto jacket, vintage silk scarf, Rachel Pally striped maxi skirt, Frye Engineer 8R

Already Pretty outfit featuring leather moto jacket, vintage silk scarf, Rachel Pally striped maxi skirt, Frye Engineer 8R

Yeah. It’s love, plain and simple.

Come spring, I’ll get it hemmed so I don’t have to hike, but for now it just adds extra warmth. And joy. Lots of skirt-related joy.

Already Pretty outfit featuring leather moto jacket, vintage silk scarf, Rachel Pally striped maxi skirt, Frye Engineer 8R

**Disclosure: Actions you take from the hyperlinks within this blog post may yield commissions for alreadypretty.com. See Already Pretty’s disclosure statement for more details.

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Lovely Links: 7/1/11

by Sally on July 1, 2011 · 19 comments

I’m thrilled to have another post over at The Frisky this week! Check out Tattoos 101: Everything You Need to Know if You Want to Get Inked.

Bloggers from a variety of backgrounds and of a variety of body shapes weigh in on the subject of what makes a woman real.

SimplyCyn looks simply radiant in her butter yellow blouse and high-waisted jeans.

I found Maria’s blog through a lovely comment she left last week, and although she mostly writes about food, her tiny mantras about money and life cover clothing, travel, and self-care succinctly and tenderly.

Nubby makes beige and black look edgy and chic.

How do you feel about showing tattoos during job interviews? Here are some savvy guidelines to consider before flashing your ink.

I’ve decided to crawl into Andrea’s art and style blog, Fly, and just live in there. Come, join me.

Lisa Bloom explains why telling female children they’re pretty encourages them to live in a “dumbed-down world,” and why focusing on their thoughts and accomplishments can make a huge difference. (Via FFB)

Still fearful of maxis? How about a high-low hemline instead?

If I look half so ravishing at age 71, I’ll be thrilled.

Patti recently launched Visible Monday, and I absolutely love her for it. She explains, “Women of a certain age (the age does not matter), who have been pushed to the sidelines by the mainstream fashion media, are announcing our manifesto: invisible no more.”

I’m jealous of everyone who got to attend the Governors Island Jazz Age Lawn Fest. Yes, I am.

Cynthia gives us a no-holds-barred anti-high-heels manifesto.

The American Medical Association has officially come out against Photoshopped ads, and is encouraging “ad agencies to work with agencies devoted to child and adolescent health to develop guidelines for ads.”

Pattern mixing in blue and white done to perfection.

Just launched this week, Clique to Know offers online designer sample sales for sizes 10 and up. ABOUT TIME! I signed up to check it out and saw sizes through 3X and up to US 24 in lines like Rachel Pally, Kay Unger, and T-Bags. They’re just getting started, but it’s an exciting concept.

Trying to decipher wedding dress codes? Lili shows her choice of wedding guest outfits from black tie to beach casual.

Allie has some suggestions for how to prevent inner thigh chafing, a problem many women face during the hot summer months.

“What might happen if women told themselves they were content exactly as they are? If they learned to see their bodies in a positive way?”

Another dress shield-style solution for us sweaty gals: 1-2 Armpads.

Kyla styles her amazing printed vintage pants with a lovely sheer cardigan.

Reminder: There is no wrong way to have a body. (Via Feministe)

And from the Department of Random: The Burning House. If your house was burning, what would you take with you? (Via Lady Smaggle)

Bonus DoR: Gillian Welch’s new album The Harrow and the Harvest came out this week, and it includes this song, which she and Dave have been performing live for AGES. When I heard them play it a few years back, it gave me chills. Still does.

DISCLOSURE: Gillian album link is an affiliate link. No other links in this post are affiliate links.

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