Gap Chiffon-Trim T in Pale Plum and Silver Accents

I'm back after the long weekend! It went by way too quickly so here's an overdue post of a work outfit from last week. Of course recent holiday shopping for others also meant unintentional shopping for myself. *sigh* I picked up several long-sleeve tees from Gap (on sale of course!) that are perfect for layering especially since it's been getting chillier in SF. Luckily for me, the Gap I went to in Downtown SF had a plethora of colors to choose from. I love basic long-sleeves, but this time in addition to 2 others, I purchased one in a mauve (aka pale plum) color that I don't have anywhere else in my wardrobe at the moment. I think long-sleeve tees can really be dressed up or down depending on the accessories. 

 

Gap chiffon-trim long-sleeve T in pale plum (buy) -- white crewneck cardigan from HK (similar) -- Banana Republic stretch trousers in sharp gray (current version) -- Gap silver flats (similar) 

Close-up of the shoes...they are a bit loose but I have wide feet =/

Accessories: F21 faux pearl earrings (similar) -- Lovisa beaded bib necklace (similar) -- F21 bangles (similar) -- silver mesh ring from HK (similar)

Close-up of the bib necklace (I love the bead details!)

I wanted to showcase the Gap chiffon-trim T without the cardigan (I am wearing a cami underneath though) so you guys can see how it really fits. It's definitely a pretty long shirt with some room in the back but it fits my arms well. I also adore the softness of the cotton fabric and color! I probably would have preferred a Petite size but couldn't find any at the store.    

Hope everyone enjoyed their Christmas weekend and had a lot to eat...I know I did! Did you get some amazing presents?

Monochromatic Mix and Splurge vs Steal: Modtoast Arty Oval Ring Feature

My first thought is always "What the heck am I going to wear??" whenever I start a new job, especially when the attire is 'business casual' which could have many meanings. I'm not very efficient at planning my outfits ahead of time so sometimes I end up throwing an easy monochromatic look together at the last second. Instead of wearing all solid black, I chose to mix floral and tweed in the same color scheme.

I apologize for my mediocre self-portraits...I need to either invest in a tripod/new camera or convince the bf to be my on-call photographer. =P This is what I came up with (please excuse the mess in my room):

F21 floral chiffon blouse (similar here and  here) -- Nordstrom BP cardigan (current version) -- F21 wide leg trousers (current version)

I couldn't get my shoes in the above photo so I had to shoot them separately.

Neeluxe tweed kitten heels (similar here and here...I actually like these ones better =P) 

F21 monogram necklace (similar) -- I took it off in the first picture though

Also, you are probably wondering about this beautiful statement ring I'm wearing:

I saw my sister's old children's book which had almost the same color on its cover. (Nails - China Glaze, Cha Cha Cha)

Against a black background -- Arty Oval Ring from Modtoast - sz 5 (buy the one I'm wearing here)

I actually first saw this on Viva Fashion Blog and wanted to feature it in my first Splurge vs Steal post! I don't know if you guys have seen the YSL Arty Ring (buy) but it is absolutely gorgeous...AND also costs $250. I desperately wanted to find a cheaper alternative and was so ecstatic when I came across Modtoast and saw everything it had to offer. I was able to purchase a similar ring for a fraction of the price! When mine came in the mail, it fit true to size and the quality/craftsmanship is incredible. Terri, the seller, was prompt at getting it sent out and she uses the proceeds to care for a house full of rescued animals which is very admirable. She has many other unique and affordable pieces so I encourage you to check them out too. If you decide to buy something there, please let Modtoast know that Karen from littlepiecefnb.blogspot.com sent you and post about your experience on my blog!

Hope everyone had a fun weekend and I will leave you with some food for thought.

the Big Kahuna burger from Urbun Burger in San Francisco with sweet potato/regular fries...so yummy!