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CHARM & CHAIN MONOGRAM SHOP

I love costume jewelry as much as the next girl but I think it's important to have a few special pieces, whether gifts from loved ones or presents to yourself to celebrate a certain milestone. Case in point: these personalized pieces from Charm & Chain. The simple gold and subtle personalization mean you can wear them with every outfit or layer them with some of your more colorful pieces. Here are five of my favorites: 







Gorgeous, no? I love the idea of giving one for your birthday, engagement (hello, new monogram!), or graduation. Can you believe the first one is only $119? Too good to resist.

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WHAT TO WEAR ON A FIRST DATE

Girls are so funny. We get all excited about going on dates, hyping it up with our girlfriends, doing the compulsory Facebook stalking... Only to let panic set in the day of as we stand in front of our closets, agonizing over what to wear. Sound familiar? Here's my go-to look of late: an easy dress, something cute to throw on if it's chilly, a classic accessory, and a pair of killer shoes. 





Oh and can you tell I'm loving on Joie lately? I'd like one of everything to appear in my closet. This fuchsia dress has the most darling drop-waist detail, this minty silk number was made for white jeans, and this navy lace top would be perfect for date nights.

What's your go-to look for a first date? What's the best (or worst!) first date you've been on? Do tell! 



OLIVIA POPE'S STYLE

Is anyone else obsessed with the show Scandal? My cousin Emily got me hooked last week and we're already halfway through the second season. (Don't you love when that happens?) Characters and plot aside, I'm absolutely obsessed with Kerry Washington's Olivia Pope's style. Here are a few choice looks from season two:

Have you ever seen a more stylish assortment of outerwear? I've collected a few of my favorite blazers/coats/jackets (okay, and one perfect boucle dress) in the slideshow below so we can all work a little Olivia Pope style into our everyday looks (you'll have to click over to the blog to see it!).



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