Brrr...

So I tend to knit a lot! I give my creations as gifts and I tend to keep some for me (why not?) and because of this I tend to not buy as many knitted items in stores because I always tell myself "I can make that." Well, sometimes it's cheaper to buy in stores than to make myself. Here are a few scarves that I would definitely add to my collection:

Gap Reverse Fair Isle Scarf//J.Crew Polka Dot Snood//Gap Crisscross Cowlneck//Gap Fur Cowlneck//J.Crew Stripe Merino Snood//Gap Fair Isle Cowlneck (out of stock)//

Ok, so in my opinion Gap has it going on with scarves this year. I have a snood from them from last year and LOVE it! Where do you tend to get yours from? 

Diggin' Denim

I've been searching for a denim jacket for months. Whenever I go into a thrift store or consignment store, I look for the right wash and the right fit. Well this weekend, I found it:

Here it is in all of its glory! (it looks a little bit darker in person too)

I couldn't help but think of all the fashion bloggers that I look up to that rock the denim jacket:

Source: kendieveryday.com via Maryn on Pinterest

I adore Jessica, Kendi and Blair's style on a daily basis and when I saw that they had been rocking the denim, I knew it was time for me.


However, all denim has a different wash and when I brought my jacket home, my sister Ellen told me that mine was too dark and looked a little bit early 2000s (which was probably its real shelf date, let's be honest!). What shade do you prefer? Do you like the dark, or would you lean towards a lighter shade? Ellen wants to bleach this one, so we'll see what I decide. But for now, with all the cool nights, it's the perfect layer!

all images via pinterest

They return!

So the summer temps are back! I instantly want to put on shorts, a t shirt and layer on a few friendship bracelets. I was so happy that last year they made a return in such a big way. Well this year is no exception! They are back and better than ever.

In fact, I've found that this year, the friendship bracelet is taking many different forms. Which is your favorite?

Stripes and Sequins also has been making a ton of friendship bracelets lately, like the last image with the ball chain. I.love.all.of.them!

 These are all DIY and my biggest summer goal is to do more projects and I would definitely put a few of these on my list! What's your new favorite? Are you a traditionalist? Or do you want to branch out? I definitely am a fan of the wrapped chain with the colored thread or the ones with the charms in the middle. Choices choices... Maybe I'll just be ambitious, make one of each and then have a friendship stack for the summer!

~Susan

all images via my Pinterest

Bombshell

I finished the SMASH finale last night. Ahh it was wonderful. I'm so sad that I have to wait until the fall to know why they completely left me hanging! It's ridiculous how much of a cliffhanger it was. If you haven't watched the season yet, watch it. The finale was for sure my favorite! Katharine McPhee really made this show a Bombshell.

image via

But this beautiful Marilyn outfit that Katharine McPhee sported was such a stunner. I couldn't help but wonder how this look could be brought to 2012. The Met Gala was last week and I feel like we saw so many gorgeous images. If I could've gone to the Met Gala, it would've been so fun to do a Marilyn inspired look. So here's Katharine McPhee's Marilyn, but a more modern version. 

This one shoulder, gold sequined beauty is such a stunner and she wore a cuff on each wrist, how classy! The red lips make the look and I wished last night that I could've been Katharine McPhee, wearing an outfit like this, singing my heart out. Yes, I just admitted that to all of you. I'm that cliché!

Did you watch it? Love it? Hate it? Would you do a Marilyn inspired look? It's bold, but I'd attempt!

~Susan

I've done it

disclaimer: I am no model! Sorry for all of you lovely people who do outfit photos so beautifully!


My friends, I have done it. After years and years of searching, I finally found the perfect pair of jeans!

Ok, in all technicalities, I didn't. My sister did. But still! They are here!

I know, I said this last time, and it didn't work. But this time, I know it's true!

I've mentioned before that jeans are difficult for me. I have wider hips and bigger, kind of muscular-ish legs, and let me tell you it is not the must fun combination on the planet for jeans. Jeans I have bought in the past stretch out, or I have a tendency to buy them too big in the first place, but now I think I have finally bought them to fit perfectly.

I got them at a boutique in Evanston (if any of you Chicagoans haven't been to The Mexican Shop on Dempster, GO!), and they're Just USA brand. I swear, I probably should go back and grab myself a few more pairs in other colors, since the price was perfect and I feel amazing in them.

So now I know what I've been missing all of these years. So how about you? Do you have those jeans that just make you feel incredible? Where did you get them?

and I just had to take pictures of the day we had yesterday! Gorgeous!

~Susan

I'm totally down with more Downton!

Recently, as in over the weekend recently, I became addicted to the show Downton Abbey. Do any of you guys watch it? It describes the tails of a Lord and his family, and all of their servants, at their huge place of residence, Downton Abbey. It takes place in Edwardian England, right before and during WWI. I honestly just can't get enough! It's been on for a few years and I don't know why it has taken me this long to jump on the wagon, but I'm so down with Downton!

The plot is so addicting and I'm absolutely in love with the clothes. Seriously, can we just have one day where we go back in time and can wear whatever we want from a certain era? Because I would definitely sport a few of these "frocks," as they refer to them on the show:

Source: vixenvintage.blogspot.com via Isis on Pinterest

Source: clickztrax.com via Bob on Pinterest

Source: pinterest.net-pin.info via Vernetta on Pinterest

Source: helixzone.info via darlena on Pinterest

Source: squidoo.com via frogcreekwoods on Pinterest

Source: uliweber.blogspot.com via Isis on Pinterest

Ok, so I'm kind of obsessed with Lady Mary's clothes. And don't they look fabulous when they're shooting for Vogue? Ahh!
Also, I'm totally keen on some of the guys. I mean, come on. How could you not be?

Source: bit.ly via Philomena on Pinterest

I could go on and on all day, but I'll spare you all and let you find out for yourselves. So who watches it? I'm already on Season 2 and it's my little break for keeping me sane!

What's the tv show that does that for you?

 Happy Tuesday!

 ~Susan

Lovely Lips

So a few weeks ago, I recently was given a pretty tube of lipstick from my mother. It was gorgeous and when we were out, she treated me to it. Now mind you, I haven't had lipstick in awhile, and at first I was a bit nervous to take the plunge.. (Let's say last time I looked like a clown! It was bad, let's not go there).

So I was given this beautiful tube! It's Terry Flirty Rosy, a splurge gift given to me by my mother. I love it and when used lightly, it's perfect for my skin tone and face structure. It's very neutral, but it gives me a little something more. I have to say, I've been loving that lipstick has been making a comeback. I always think it's so classy, mainly because when I think of gorgeous lips, I think of my grandma who always sports Mac Vegas Volt and rocks it every day! If I had to get another tube, I'd go for another subtle shade, or a fun coral or light pink. Here's what I'd go for, especially those cheap, budget friendly options on the top row!

lips I love by susanhager featuring a lip makeup

What colors do you gravitate towards? Are you bold or neutral? Gloss or stick? What do you guys think?

 ~Susan

Friday's Fancies: Rain Chic!

Rain Chic by susanhager featuring a black umbrella

Sometimes, I just love the rain! I wholeheartedly embraced {av}'s theme this week is here is my definition of rainy day chic. To me, there is sometime to be said about a dress and rain boots. I just think it's cute! I'd pair it with a statement colored rain jacket, a cute mint bag since mint is oh so cute and oh so in right now, and keep the accessories minimum. The most important rainy day musts have to be the coat and the boots. Everyone needs a good pair of rain boots and I love these! Plus make sure your umbrella works! Hopefully we'll have some warm rain (that's my favorite kind) and some beautiful rainbows to boot. I must admit, I love dressing for the rain!

After a busy week, I have yet another busy weekend. A friend of mine is getting married tomorrow, so I'm excited to go and see her and her man tie the knot! That is all followed by rehearsals, more revisions, and more even more revisions. But I hope you all have relaxing weekends!

Be sure to check out the rest of the fancies over at Long Distance Loving all weekend! Happy Friday! ~Susan

Sometimes it would be nice...

Source: everythingjustpurelovely.tumblr.com via Katie on Pinterest

to just walk in the rain with your love. Enjoy the ones you love today!

(Sorry for my brevity, I had an interview today, so I was short on time. But I thought this was too cute!)

Happy Monday!

~Susan

Kate, so great

I don't know anyone who is as obsessed with the royal couple as my younger sister Mary. She and her friends go crazy for all things Kate! They look on the website Daily Mail several times a day for updates and pictures of the duchess. They went to Top Shop and all bought the same blue blazer that Kate once wore and each of them have Pinterest Boards dedicated to her. At first, I didn't understand the obsession. I thought that she was gorgeous, and I've always loved the Royals, but I never understood why their obsession has gone to such great lengths (they plan to watch the Royal Wedding, again on their 1 year anniversary, among other things!). Well, after seeing more and more pictures of Kate pop up on my Pinterest, courtesy of my sister and her friends, I'm understanding why her style is so desired. She seems so down to earth, girl next door, and just well, cool. (I'd love to be her for just one day!) Here's a few pictures, courtesy of my sister Mary's Pinterest board, Kate the Great.

Source: zimbio.com via Mary on Pinterest

Source: zimbio.com via Mary on Pinterest

I mean obviously I could keep going, but I'll leave you wanting more. Find Mary on her Pinterest and I promise you won't be disappointed. We're all anxiously awaiting the London 2012 summer Olympics, where she and her friends predict that she will be making some glamorous appearances!

Happy Tuesday!

~Susan

Friday Fancies: Tangerine Tango!

Remember this gorgeous image from J.Crew a few months back? I absolutely loved these colors together! When I found out that {av} at Long Distance Loving wanted more Tangerine Tango this week, I got so excited! I wanted to put my spring spin on this gorgeous color combination.

I love the 60s inspired feel of this dress (not going to lie, it reminded me of costumes in The Help! I absolutely loved all of those dresses! I digress...). I loved the color, the cut, the whole enchilada! Those heels are such a fun color and I love pulling the whole look together with more bracelets, and even more tangerine nail polish. Navy and tangerine together are also a favorite of mine! Are you on the tangerine bandwagon as much as you know I am??

Ok, I couldn't stop! I love this color too much! I hope you all have wonderful weekends. I plan on lots of productivity! I hope wherever your weekends take you, you enjoy every minute! Head over to Long Distance Loving to check out more fabulous fancies!

 ~Susan

Guest Post: Kate at Daffodils

Happy Thursday all! The wonderful Kate from Daffodils is here! She's such a fantastic person. When I'm a mom, I definitely want to follow by her wonderful example. I'm so excited that she's here today to share her favorite spring trends:

Hello Little Ray of Sunshine fans! My name is Kate and you can find me over at Daffodils blogging about my life in CA with my handsome hubby and two little boys. While Susan is giving her wrists a rest, I am happy to be here today to share with you my favorite spring trends. I know spring is one of the season I look forward to most because of all the bright colors. I love how everything just feels so fresh!

One of the easiest way to jump on board with this year's spring trends is to try some bright nails. I love both the Essie and OPI Spring lines and I can't wait to get my hands on a few new colors (pun intended).

The other day I wandered into Ann Taylor Loft just as they were putting out their newest collection and I was in awe over the feminine and colorful blouses. As a mom on the go, I am all for something that is easy to wear, but would make me feel instantly classy. The blur printed blouse in the middle is the one I had my eye on at Loft!



1/2/3/4



Finally, it looks like I am going to jump on board with the colored jean trend. I have seen some rave reviews of the Old Navy vesion (the yellow pant) and feel like it would be worth a shot at a price I can afford.



1/2/3/4



Which spring trends are you dreaming about?

Thanks for having me, Susan!

Thank you Kate! I love all of her finds. Ahh I'm definitely on board with all of those trends. I really need to find myself a pair of colored jeans (those red ones are fantastic!). My nails are painted and I need one of those blouses!


Happy Thursday!


~Susan

Guest Post: Carly from a simple affair

I'm so excited to have Carly here from a simple affair! She wants to be a teacher, just like me! We've been having a great time talking. She's got such a great eye for all things fashion, decor, style, you name it. She's just plain fantastic! Look at what she's got for us today:

Hello there! Carly here from a simple affair! I have had an absolute blast getting to "know" Susan these past few weeks.  We realized that we are both in Elementary Education and both job hunting at the moment.  Needless to say, we have a lot to talk about.

In other news, I would like to take this time to publicly announce my obsession with stripes and polka dots.  There, I said it, and I feel much better. I also l-o-v-e, LOVE scarves.  Pair them with a casual tee, feminine dress, or a button down.  Stripe and polka dot scarves do not discriminate between wide let pants or skinny jeans.  See why I love them so much? You really can wear them with anything.  They are also an easy way to mix patterns if you're not quite sure how to start.  Polka dots on polka dots? Can do. Stripes on stripes? Yes, yes you can, and you should.  Polka dots and stripes? Now we're talking. 

Here is a roundup of some of my favorite stripe and polka dot scarves. 

1. kate spade new york 'sailor stripe' silk scarf // 2. Hologen 'Dot Stripe' Scarf  // 3. MARC BY MARC JACOBS 'Jacobson Stripe' Scarf  // 4. Split Stripes Scarf  // 5. MARC BY MARC JACOBS 'Hot Dot' Cashmere & Silk Scarf // 6. Zara Large Polka Dot Scarf

 I also like to layer my scarves.  I couldn't decide between two scarves one day so I threw both on.  I loved the added volume and the mix of color and prints.  Why not layer two favorites together??

Other patterns to mix: chevron, houndstooth, ikat, leopard, zebra

Do you love scarves, stripes, and polka dots as much as I do? Are you layering prints?

Thanks so much for having me today, Susan!

xoxo Carly

Carly, you're the best! I want to take all those scarves home with me! Literally...all of them! I hope you all go over to her blog and follow along, she's awesome! 


Have wonderful Wednesdays!


~Susan

Weekend Highlight: oh those oscars!

Watching the oscars is one of my favorite nights of the year! It's so glamorous and the fashion is to die for! I really wish I could just go once, what a dream that would be! I thought the show was really good, Billy Crystal did a great job. It was funny, it was sweet, and I loved the old Hollywood feel of the whole show. And speaking of Old Hollywood, I loved that many of the fashions were so classic and elegant!

Source: oscar.go.com via Susan on Pinterest

Source: oscar.go.com via Susan on Pinterest

Source: oscar.go.com via Susan on Pinterest

Source: oscar.go.com via Susan on Pinterest

Source: thesimplyluxuriouslife.com via Susan on Pinterest

Also, who thought Emma Stone was hilarious? I would've totally had those same reactions if I was at the Oscars, no lies! Let's be real! Did you watch the Oscars? What did you think of the results? I think I'm going to be doing some renting in the near future!

 Happy Monday!

 ~Susan

Friday's Fancies: Oscar's Night Out!

I have been a devout fan of the Oscars since I was about 10 years old. We used to have Oscar parties at our house where all of our friends would come over, all dressed up to the nines. My dad would put up a bright light in our front yard and roll out a red carpet for us to walk on. My mom would make hordouerves and then we would watch the red carpet looking for our favorites.

 This year, I want to see what Meryl Streep, Reese Witherspoon, Emma Stone, Kate Winslet are sporting! They've been my favorites on the red carpet in years past and I really hope they don't disappoint this year! Will you be watching?

If I were going to go, I'd wear this year's color of the year! (yes, more tangerine! Are you sick of it yet? I still love it!) I love this Calvin Klein number, it's classic with a new color twist! I'd pair it with neutral heels and a clutch, but I'd want to make a statement with that necklace there. Isn't she a beaut? I love it! I'd go neutral with my nails, but make a statement with red lips too. I wouldn't want Joan Rivers putting me on her bad list!

In addition to watching the Oscars, I'm going to a friend's bridal shower on Saturday, and still continuing my job search process. What are you up to?? Whatever you're up to, I hope you find some time to relax and enjoy the biggest night in film!!

~Susan

Friday's Fancies: LOVE Edition

Love: Out or In! by susanhager featuring pink opal jewelry

Happy Friday friends! Who has been ready for this weekend? I definitely have been! This week, {av} suggested pink and red, and I've got that going on in bits here! Who has a big date for Valentine's Day? I hope some of you do! I do not, but if I did I would definitely want that dress, those heels and that simple necklace. What a look right? Or if you're like me, you might be spending Valentine's day either with friends or with a good chick flick and some chocolates (not that I may do any of the following...). This heart sweater, black skinnies, along with some cozy slippers, and why not, throw on a statement necklace for good measure (It's pink after all!)! I think that you should wear clothes that make you feel amazing, no matter the day or where you're headed. This would definitely do that!

 Hope you all have good weekends! I'm headed to an orchestra concert tonight with friends, spending Saturday having to take a wonderful state required teacher exam (sarcasm! those are such a pain, I digress! My last one!) and then off to see family and have a few meetings. It's going to be busy and I still have a lot to accomplish as well. Hopefully it'll all get done, right? Always does...What are your plans? Any big Valentine dates coming your way?

Go check out some gorgeous pink and red fancies over at Long Distance Loving! 

~Susan