$pending The Time:

     When it comes to fashion, it usually pays to hunt for the best deal. After reading thru piles of chic blogs and seeing even more stylish advertisements in grocery store magazines I can't help but want to shop, who wouldn't feel that way? However, saving a few dollars and really searching out the best prices on long lasting quality items can sometimes be the way to go when it comes to retail therapy. I am a huge supporter of lurking the sales racks in every boutique and finding those hidden treasures in a local charity shop. I have also recently discovered my town's Antique Fair which is held once a month and has recently gifted me with some very  inexpensive coach bags (like the Wallis bag featured in this post). Crossroads Trading Co has quickly become one of my all time favorite spots over the years because I love the idea of recycled fashion, you bring in your old clothes and go home with new (to you) garments! So even though I am continually barricaded with advertisements and the like, I know I can get my shopping fix by purchasing quality items that will last and last without going home with a severely sad wallet!

Prada leather sandals purchased at a ridiculously
low price at Crossroads Trading Co.

Sunglasses- Vintage Gucci (via Twist!),
 Leather Duffle Bag- Coach

I spotted this dress at the Michael Kors store several seasons ago, but after seeing the $150 price tag I only admired from a far. Recently, I plucked the same dress off of a Marshall's sale rack for $10!

     I hope that the next time you find yourself needing a new item for your wardrobe that you will be inspired to hunt down the perfect quality item at the perfect price for your budget! We all deserve to look amazing while tucking away a few extra dollars! Try your local charity shops (like Goodwill and Salvation Army), Crossroads, or even a local antique fair or flea market! 

Yours,

Nico

Sparkle & Shine:

     I took these photos a few weeks ago with my friend Igor. He asked me to wear red lips and to bring lots of dresses to the studio. I have to say, as someone who doesn't get gussied up that often that I was pretty thrilled to play dress up. 

      I also have to admit that this was the first occasion that I have had to wear this gold sequined mini dress. I purchased it right when sparkly new year's eve dresses were being deeply discounted at Macy's. Sometimes to find the better deal, you have to shop in the off season. I know I will get a lot of wear out of this glitzy number this holiday season to festive parties! 

(Dress- International Concepts)

Sparkle & Shine by nsaich featuring nylon stockings

     I especially hope to wear this dressy number to ring in the new year! On Polyvore I created a collage of what I would pair it with, sturdy boots, a masculine blazer, and red lips would be the perfect combination for me! How would you style a gilded dress?

Yours,

Nico

November Wedding:

Untitled #83 by nsaich featuring coach handbags

      Next month I am attending a Fall wedding and I couldn't be more thrilled for my two close friends Bianca and Johnathan! When I met Bianca for the first time she instantly asked me if she could show me a photograph of her wedding dress, when I asked if she was engaged she said no, but that one day she would be! Now that a few years have gone by since that initial ice breaking conversation, I have become good friends with Johnathan (Bianca's fiance') as well developing an even closer friendship with Bianca in the process. Currently we are busy creating centerpieces and displays for her special day (think deep navy, gold, and petal pink, plus a unique theme!). Their wedding also happens to fall on my birthday, which means I have two reasons to get all  dressed up that day! 
      I picked up this Kirna Zabete for Target (featured above) dress the last time I was out and about and I just know it will be perfect for a Fall wedding. I plan on wearing the dress with this coach bag that was featured in Tuesday's post. What do you guys think? I've still got plenty of time to put things together so I'd love your stylish advice! 

Yours,
Nico

Blood Orange:

      Today I took a field trip to Watsonville in order to enjoy (in my opinion) the best tortas in the area at Santa Rosa Meat Market. My sandwiches (I got two!) were delicious and the blood orange soda that went with my meal happened to match the atmosphere perfectly for these photos as well.

(I picked up the moonstone cocktail ring & large turquoise ring at my local
 mineral and rock store, Gem Show. This store offers great pieces of raw
minerals as well as fantastic and unusual jewelry. The staff is always very
friendly and willing to answer any questions you may have on gemstones!)

Sunglasses: Oliver People's

(via- EBay)

Top: Gap

Denim: Gap

Moonstone Ring: Gem Show

Large Turquoise Ring: Gem Show

Small Turquoise Ring & Bracelets: Santa Cruz Pawn

Bag: Coach

Heels: Escada

(via- Yoox)

     The weather is beginning to cool down a little bit and while I love wearing this turtleneck with capris for now, I'm sure I'll be wearing this basic with flared denim and faux fur vests this Fall. What are some of your favorite Autumn basics?

Yours,
Nico

Indian Summer Style:

(The Remix Sweater)

      Santa Cruz has been at an all time HOT the past few days and I have been soaking up the sun. As much as I love the fall season, I am sad to see Summer wave good bye. The indian summer we have been experiencing has been giving me a few more days of warm weather indulgences like grilling in my back yard as well as beautiful beach excursions. But I think the best part about the extended sunny season is that I get to sport my favorite Summer items one last time, here are several of my favorite sunny style posts:

(Over The Bridge)

(Ombre Neon)

(DVFing)

(The Floral Leopard)

(Summer Suit)

(Green Grass & Blue Skies)

(In A Tree I-N-G!)

 Are you ready for Fall or are you already missing Summer?!

Yours,
Nico