And the winner is...

The winner of this awesome owl necklace is...

Drumroll please...

Nicole Q!

Congratulations!!!

Happy Friday Everyone!

- The Pretty Pauper

Last Chance for Tomorrow's Giveaway!

Tomorrow, at 12pm MST, I will be drawing a winner for this very cute owl necklace. You don't want to miss it!

So, here are the rules for the giveaway**:

1.) You will receive one entry for being a follower of my blog. 

You must comment on this post to receive your one entry. 

2.) You will receive an additional entry if you link to my giveaway! 

(Please post a link to your blog in a seperate comment)

3.) You will receive an additional entry if I'm on your blogroll.

(Please post a link to your blog in a seperate comment)

**You must post your comment(s) on the original post.
Winner will be determined by randrom.org.

Good luck everyone!

-The Pretty Pauper

Fitting Room Reviews and an OOTD!

I couldn't resist the temptation to do some more reviews, so I headed to my local Anthropologie to try on some items that have been on my wishlist for quite some time. I had very high hopes but did leave a tad bit disappointed (and close to empty handed). Do you ever have one of those days that no matter what you try on you just feel disgusting? That's me. The past few days I have been bingeing on food and don't know why. I have always had good control over what I eat, but the past week there's no stopping this monster. I have gained five pounds in a week (eeek!). What's wrong with me??!?! I seriously need to do a few miles on the elliptical tonight ( and tomorrow, and the next day...)

Sorry. Tangent. Rant Over.

But any who- here are my reviews!

Height of Summer Dress

The first thing that drew me to this dress was the rich color. Its gorgeous! I tried on a 6, but definitely needed an 8. The dress was a little stiff and fit me weird. I only had time to try on what I had in the room, but I think I would have liked it a lot more if I had tried the 8.

Sure Lock Dress

The picture online makes this dress seem much more flattering than it really fits. I tried on the 8 here and it was kind of bunch even though I wouldn't have gone any smaller. The bow is VERY awkward looking. It's also very blah. I felt like a sack of potatoes in this dress.

 

Keep it Simple Tunic


This is probably my favorite item that I tried on. The color is beautiful and the fit was very flattering. I tried on a 6 and I think an 8 would fit a tad better in my hips. I really like this top and *if* it goes on sale I will be sure to snag it!

Lunar Eclipse Top


I tried on a Medium, and the fit was good up top, but the bottom was too "poofy". The print on the bottom is nice, but very sheer. You could see my belly and belt right through it.

Ruffled Riceflower Tank

I tried this on in a Medium and it fit pretty true to size. I really like the ruffles and cut. It is very slimming in the waist. If my arms were more toned, I would have loved it more! 

Lightning Flower Tunic


I made a trip to the sale room and came across this cute top. I tried it on in a medium and it seemed to fit true to size. I really like the drawstring on it because of the slimming effect. If it would have been $29.95 instead of $49.95 I would have snatched it up!

I did end up purchasing one thing: Double Torsade Necklace


I've been wanting this for a while after seeing it in some of Natalie's OOTDs.

I decided to feature it in today's OOTD:

Top: (Forever 21, not online) (similar here)
Cardigan: Juniors Pointelle Cardigan Sweater in Dog Bone (Target)
Necklace: Double Torsade Necklace (Anthropologie)
Sandals: Michael Antonio "Dava" (Piperlime)
Jeans: (Nordstrom, not online) (similar here)

REMINDER!!!
My drawing for this darling owl necklace will be taking place
this Friday and 12pm MST.  Don't miss out. Enter here!

- The Pretty Pauper

OOTD- In the Anthropologie Fitting Room...

Today, I made a stop at Anthro. to do some fitting room reviews. Look for these reviews in tomorrow's post!

Sorry for the goofy face!

The Lowdown...

Top: (Nordstrom, not website) (similar here)
Jeans: Jolt Pick Me Up Skinny Jeans (Nordstrom)
Shoes: Report Kimball2 Flats (Nordstrom)
Cuff: (Francesca's Collections, not on website) (similar here)

- The Pretty Pauper

Too Many Distractions OOTD

You're probably thinking it's been a while since my last OOTD. Well- you're right! Work has been crazy lately, but luckily I got home early tonight to post one at a reasonable time. The sun is even still out. Off to the grocery store with the hubs. You could definitely call me Old Mother Hubbard. We are officially drained of creativity making meals out of the randomness that we have. Real meals, here we come!

And now for an OOTD!

I got a phone call I couldn't miss in the middle of my photo shoot...

Then Sophie came along craving some "much needed" attention...

I caved in and gave her some love...

...but she still wouldn't go away!

"Mama, can I pleeease be in your OOTD?"

Gotta love pets!

The Lowdown...

Top: Scalloped Clip Dot Top (Forever 21)

Cardigan: (Nordstrom, not online) (similar here)

Jeans: Vigoss Brooklyn Skinny Jeans (Nordstrom)

Necklace: (Nordstrom, not on website) (similar here)

Shoes: Ecote Woven Skimmer in Opium (Urban Outfitters)

- The Pretty Pauper

The Pretty Pauper's Virtual OOTD

This morning, I slept in until 10- it was heavenly! My sweet hubby made me crepes for breakfast and now I am in a sugar coma. I love lounge around days! Tonight, we are joining my in-laws for dinner after my husband's hockey game.  My brother in law and his girlfriend just got back from a cruise last week I have a gut feeling that they are going to  announce an engagement tonight! My brother in law never organizes family dinners- so I really don't know what else could have provoked this get together. I can't wait to find out! 

 And now for this Sunday's Virtual OOTD...

What do you think?

- The Pretty Pauper

Weekend Wants!

Its that time! Here are this week's Weekend Wants!

#10 Height of Summer Dress in Green (Anthropologie)

#9 Seychelles "Card Shark" Sandal (Nordstrom)

#8 Homespun Horticultural Tank (Anthropologie)

#7 Silk Watercolor Floral Dress (Martin + Osa)

 #6 Caya Ruffled Shell in Lilac (J. Crew)

#5 Georgette Mini Short in Black (J. Crew)

#4 Floating Leaves Brass Leaf Necklace (etsy seller BeadinBabe)

#3 Cara Accessories Rosebud Necklace (Nordstrom)

#2 Quicksilver Obsessed Strapless Dress (Nordstrom)

#1 Jessica Simpson Juliann Sandal in Rustic Platinum (Piperlime)

- The Pretty Pauper

Back to the Winter Doldrums...

What the eff Colorado??? This is what I woke up to yesterday...

I was hoping the weather was going to get better today, but there is still snow on the ground and it's such a cold, cloudy depressing day. It was 70 with blue skies just a few days ago and its supposed to be gorgeous again in a couple of days. You never know when Colorado's gonna pull crap like this again and if you live here you always have to have your winter wardrobe on stand-by until July. Ugh.

Rant over.

- The Pretty Pauper

The big 5-0 GIVEAWAY!

Hello lovely readers! Since yesterday marked the "Big 5-0" follower mark, I have a fabulous giveaway!

This super cute owl necklace from Forever 21 (with tags)!

I have this necklace myself and I have gotten SO many compliments on it!

So, here are the rules for the giveaway:

1.) You will receive one entry for being a follower of my blog. 

You must comment on this post to receive your one entry. 

2.) You will receive an additional entry if you link to my giveaway! 

(Please post a link to your blog in your comment)

3.) You will receive an additional entry if you include me on your blogroll.

(Please post a link to your blog in your comment)

The drawing will be held on Friday, April 30th at 12pm MST. 

Good luck everyone!

- The Pretty Pauper

The big 5-0!

Are you ready for this? Well..... today my blog has reached the 50 follower mark! I am so excited and am even looking more forward to the wonderful GIVEAWAY that will be posted tomorrow (yes, I am going to make you WAIT- muah ha ha ha). Trust me, you won't want to miss it!

Thank you all for being followers! I have been inspired by many of your blogs and seriously look forward to posting every day because of YOU!  Hopefully one day I will even hit the 500 mark- 10% there! It doesn't hurt to dream right?

I do apologize, however, for my lack of an OOTD or anything remotely entertaining. I just finished a 14 hour work day and am lounging in my PJs and can't muster the energy to go change into something OOTD worthy. Sorry for the let down :(

I'll leave you with this random, hilarious youtube video. 

Check it out!

- Amanda

(The Pretty Pauper)

My new shoes!

I finally received my new flats that I have longed for since the April Nordstrom catalog came out! These are so cute and feminine (not to mention comfy)! What do you think?

The Lowdown...

Top: (Nordstrom, not on website) (similar here)

Cardigan: (Macy's-old) (similar here)

Shoes: Report Kimball2 Flat (Nordstrom)

Belt: (Nordstrom, not on website) (similar here)

Jeans: (Nordstrom, not on website (similar here)

- The Pretty Pauper

Flowers in her hair....

So here I am- 11:09pm and I just got finished with work for the day (I've been working since 9am). If my post doesn't make sense its because I'm a tired gal! I got another present from the UPS driver today which I will be featuring in tomorrows OOTD ( I took today's OOTD pics before I received my new goodies).  I can't wait to show them off!

I am in the midst of getting my butt back into shape. I took a small break this evening and walked about 3.5 miles tonight with the hubs. It was so nice out! Hopefully I will make it into a habit :) Next time I will have to bring my camera along and get some pics of one of Colorado's many beautiful sunsets.

Start sending in your questions for this weeks FAQ. Also, watch for that GIVEAWAY... only 4 more readers!!!

The Lowdown...

Cardigan: Rampage, old (similar here)

Top: (Nordstrom, not on website) (similar here)

Jeans: (Nordstrom, not online) (similar here- different wash)

Sandals: Report "Sawyer" in Bronze (Nordstrom)

Headband: (Forever 21, not on website) (similar here)

- The Pretty Pauper

Case of the Mondays...

Why must weekends go so fast? I am seriously dreading the rest of this week. I am in sales and my busy season just bit me in the ass. I'm guessing its going to be a 60 hour work week - yuck!

To brighten my day, the UPS truck made a stop to my house with my Forever 21 purchases. Today I am featuring one of the blazers I bought. If I can just make it through this week, life will be good again!

Big news though- I am getting closer to 50 followers and when that happens... it's GIVEAWAY time!
You won't want to miss out, so stay tuned!

The Monday Blues (well, "blue-greens") OOTD

The Lowdown...

Top: (Nordstrom, not on website) (similar here)

Tank: BP Stretch Camisole in White (Nordstrom)

Blazer: Linen Ruffle Sleeve Jacket (Forever 21)

Jeans: Jolt "Pick Me Up" Denim Leggings (Nordstrom)

Shoes: Ecote Woven Skimmer in Opium (Urban Outfitters)

Necklace: (Nordstrom, not on website) (similar here)

Bracelet: Aqua Blossom Bracelet (etsy seller sweetfindings4you)

Flower Pin: Silk Rose Hairclip (Forever 21)

- The Pretty Pauper

Hard Day's Work!

I spent the day doing some spring cleaning and yard work/clean up. It was GORGEOUS today- I even got a little bit of color from being outside! Now I am just catching up on some laundry. I feel so accomplished!

I will not be doing OOTDs on Sundays since that is my relax and/or catch up on housework day, however, I will create a virtual outfit for your viewing pleasure :)

Enjoy!

- The Pretty Pauper

Weekend Wants!

Here are my top 10 Weekend Wants of the week! It's definitely an Anthropologie week!

#10 Valance Tank (Anthropologie)

#9 Keep it Simple Tunic in Turquoise (Anthropologie)

#8 Level 9 Coil Legging (Anthropologie)

#7 Double Torsade Necklace in Mint (Anthropologie)

I saw this on Natalie's blog and fell in love with it!

#6 Essie Resort Collection (Essie)

#5 Dotted Gatherings Dress (Anthropologie)

#4 Luxe Cocktail Bracelet (J Crew)

#3 TEMPTU Airbrush System (Sephora)

I wouldn't mind giving this a try...

#2 Crossover Pleated Chiffon Dress (Express)

#1 Lotus Blossom Necklace (esty seller UntamedMenagerie)

- The Pretty Pauper

Friday FAQ's

So yesterday, 3 readers contributed some questions to my first ever Friday FAQ column. You asked, now I will tell :)

Who is your favorite shoe designer? 
Hmm. My favorite designer is by far Christian Louboutin but I don't think I could ever afford a pair on my budget unless I won the lottery or got them as a gift (reading this out loud as I type so husband hears me). My favorite "affordable" shoes are Seychelles or NIne West. 

What is your one go to color when you just can't decide what to wear? What is a color you stay away from?

My go to color would either be black or purple. I organize my closet by color and those two colors are stocked pretty well! I loathe red. It looks a-w-f-u-l on me.  Yellow also washes me out quite a bit.

Do you have any easy hairstyles or updos you could share?

My favorite easy, quick "do" is to pull back my hair with bobby pins on both sides. Check it out in my OOTD today for a visual. I also will "poof" it occasionally. 

What are your favorite sandals/flip flops to wear for summer?

I love gladiators! I just bought some Mia sandals that I lurve!

That was fun! Post your questions for next week on this post :)

And now for an OOTD...

The Lowdown...

Top: (Charlotte Russe, not on website) (similar tank style here)

Jeans: Silver Aiko Jeans (The Buckle)

Shoes: Jessica Simpson "Edison" Flat (Nordstrom)

Necklace: (Francesca's Collections, not on website) 

Cuff: (Francesca's Collections, not on website) (similar here)

White Cat: (Denver Dumb Friends League) (similar here)

I know that this outfit isn't spectacular, but I just got home from my first cheer practice from the new team (hence me looking all haggard). I usually look a lot more presentable, I swear! 

I am so hungry and crabby right now. My husband and I are going to our local health fair tomorrow and getting our blood screening done and we have to fast for 12 hours. I HATE needles! I am not only anxious, but this fasting deal sucks. I can't wait to be done with it and eat a huge breakfast in the morning! 

- The Pretty Pauper

Another Award!

Aw! I just received The Beautiful Blogger Award from The Thing About Daisies! I am flattered- thank you so much!

The rules for this one is:

1. List 7 things about me
2. Give this award to 7 people
3. Let them know!

So, here are 7 random things about me...

1. My husband and I have 2 cats- Chloe and Sophie. We love them like they are our children and spoil them to death.

2. I love breakfast food for dinner but I don't like to eat breakfast...

3. I have the best Chewbacca impression out of anyone I know- even though I despise Star Wars.

4. The sound of utensils scraping on plates/bowls makes my teeth cringe and gives me a mini panic attack.

5. I am a high school cheerleading coach and love it! It is a huge part of my life and it's the most rewarding "job" I've ever had. I can't imagine my life without coaching.

6. In college, I was 2 weeks away from student teaching and decided to drop out of the early childhood education program because I decided working with little kids the rest of my life was not for me. I ended up with a Human Development and Family Studies degree...and now I sell cheerleading and dance team uniforms and get to work from home...Sweet!

7. I've only been interested in fashion/style/beauty for the past year or so. Before then, I wore sweats almost everyday, never straightened my hair, barely wore any make up- I was a hot mess. I felt like I belonged on TLCs "What Not to Wear". Stacy and Clinton would have had a heart attack if they spotted me in a public place. I was a huge dork/outcast in high school and if I would have shown my "high school" self my current closet, she would have laughed!

And now for the blogs I pass this award onto...

Anthropologie Addict

Breakfast at Anthropologie

designer. finds. addict.

J.Crew Aficionada

Temptalia

The Look 4 Less

Lemon Sweet Life

- The Pretty Pauper