Friday Fancies: Color Crush

Happy Friday everyone! I actually thought this week flew by, which is never a bad thing! I guess time flies when you're having fun? Nevertheless I am so excited it's Friday, and Spirit Day for the kids today. Time to break out my new colors: blue and white, and speaking of colors, today's theme is Color Crush. I've been finding my colors of the moment have definitely been blue black and white. But today I'm focusing on the classic combo, which I feel we've been seeing a lot of this fall. Not complaining here!

Black and White by susanhager featuring suede loafers

Back in July, with some Anthro gift cards, I purchased this black and white skirt (which is now unfortunately sold out, but I've definitely seen some similar options) back in July and have worn it so many times so far to work, church, and this weekend I'm planning on wearing it out to an event. I've given it a different look each time and I love dressing it differently. I absolutely love the feel, the texture, the fit (it's one of the most flattering pieces of clothing I own!) and the classic chicness factor it has. So why not go black and white on black and white? Any of these tops would work wonders, and switch up the shoes (those Kate Spades with the pink bow? Ahh!) and it's the perfect fall outfit for work or play.

What's your color of the moment? Any weekend plans? I plan on savoring my Friday night with a little Shark Tank (who else is with me there?!) and then trying to work a bit the rest of the weekend. Sunday night though, I'm going to see John Corbett (aka Aidan from Sex and the City) live at a bar. He sings now! Seriously, what is this life? Yes, he sings country music and I can't wait to see that gorgeously handsome man in person. And hear his voice. Maybe he'll speak to me? Who knows!

Go see more color crushes on Long Distance Loving!

Friday Fancies: Workwear

Happy Friday friends! This week was short and long at the same time. It was a good one, a busy one for sure. I'm so happy that I'll have tonight with some old coworkers at one of my favorite places, Toby Keith's for some good music and food!

This week is workwear essentials! Since I teach, my workwear kind of varies. Sometimes, I go the pencil skirt route with an oxford and flats, other days I'll wear a cute dress with boots. But other days, I'll wear something like this:

Work It by susanhager featuring a full mini skirt

I got this skirt and purse from Target the day of the 3.1 Phillip Lim collection. I can't wait to wear them all some more this fall. This purse is my new go to and I love it oh so much! And I can't say enough about those flats: they're insanely comfortable. Occasionally, I'll splurge on flats that are comfortable to be worth the investment. These are! This would be a dream jacket. Am I right? Gorgeous!

Hope you all have fantastic weekends! Enjoy these summer like temperatures!

Friday Fancies: Fall Wishlist!

Happy Friday everyone! TGIF right? It's actually been a very productive week for me, and it didn't really feel that Loooonnnnggg like last week did haha! But nonetheless I'm so excited that Friday's here with a weekend ahead. I've been working a lot, but have definitely found time to enjoy homemade Pumpkin Spice Lattes with my mom, go on perfect beginning fall runs with my little sister, and unwind while rewatching Season 1 of Smash. Though I am excited for Fall TV to return. Shark Tank anyone? (aka my Friday night ritual!).

Fall Wishlist by susanhager featuring beige tops

Anyways, to fancies! Here is a bit of my Fall Wishlist, although I have to say, I'm very happy with my closet and feel like I'm ready to conquer fall! I took advantage of Target/3.1 Phillip Lim last week and walked away a happy camper with this satchel. It's the perfect fall/winter/working girl bag and bonus, it has a cross body strap! But on my list would have to be that beautiful J.Crew Field Jacket and a pair or black skinnies. Oh and did I mention that the October J.Crew Style Guide came in the mail? Loved a lot of it, including those smoking slippers and dress listed above! What's on your fall wishlist? Visit Long Distance Loving to check more out!

Friday Fancies: a chill in the air!

Happy Friday! Hasn't this been such a long week? I battled a silly cold last weekend, and still have a few of the remnants...ugh! But it's been a good week too. Yesterday I met Mary at the Everygirl Event at Bloomingdales. They recently renovated their handbag, makeup and accessories area and Danielle and Alaina were there to celebrate! There were tasty eats, free wine, and lots of different makeup artists showing off their stuff. It was so fun to catch up, I love blogger events!

falling in by susanhager featuring denim jeans

On to fancies! So I've been eyeing this sweater since it came in the catalogue. The price? Not in my budget right now, but always in my Friday Fancies budget! Those Old Navy jeans with the zippers on the sides are on my radar, I've seen them styled and they're oh so cute! I also recently got a pair of booties that remind me of these for way less (only $20!) but same type of style that's been around for a few seasons now. and that bag. I love it!

Hope you have fabulous weekends! Enjoy the first weekend of fall!

Friday Fancies: Transition to Fall

transition to fall by susanhager featuring j crew tops

Happy Friday all! No time to chat today, but this summer linen sweater is the perfect transition piece on its own, but top it with this J.Crew beauty of a jacket, and voila, you've got something a little more special! Hope you all had great weekends and hope the weekend is even better! I'll be stepping out for charity with my friends in the Electric Run for Special Olympics. What are you all up to?
 P.S. I know we'll be seeing that 3.1 Phillip Lim for Target bag everywhere soon, but I still love the color and the shape of it! Hopefully there'll still be some left!

Friday Fancies: Late Summer Style

Happy Friday everyone! It's been super crazy around here! This is the first time I've been home in a week. I spent last week visiting one of my best friends from college in my college town. It was really great to be able to go back and hang out at the place that meant so much to me for so long. We really had a ball and ate super yummy food! See below: veggie fajitas with fresh corn and bean salsa, fresh guac, smoked turkey sandwiches with arugala and fresh tomatoes, and blueberry lemon Italian Ice!

This week, my family and I squeezed in our family trip. What was supposed to be a 2 week adventure turned into 3 days! Yep, crazy schedules and jobs happened. We spent three relaxing days in Wisconsin, eating fresh food everyday, going for long walks, swimming a lot and indulging in cable TV (not a luxury we have at our house. We take advantage whenever possible!).

Speaking of jobs, guess who got one? This girl! I'm going to be teaching music at a local Catholic school and I seriously can't wait to get everything settled and set for the year. My sisters, mom and I have already started decorating!

late summer by susanhager featuring a leather purse

But finally on to fancies! Wowza! I seriously love this look. Four easy pieces that just describe {this} summer to me. Nights have been chilly around here lately and why wouldn't you want that lovely piece around your shoulders? That Kate Spade Saturday dress is oh so cute and perfectly casual with those wedges and a bag. Sounds like summer to me!

This weekend I am off to see one of my favorite artists: the one and only Mr. Josh Groban! What was supposed to be a full girls-only family affair turned into asking everyone I knew if they waned to come! Isn't that difficult when you try to play things four months in advance? Life suddenly just happens! I'm so excited that one of my college friends can come and spend the evening with us. This is like a dream of mine, seeing Josh live! I've only ever dreamt it and now it's coming true! (I'm such a sap. I know. Can't help it!)

Have fabulous weekends!

Friday Fancies: a LBD

Happy Friday friends! This has been the weirdest weather week ever in Chicago. It's been hot every day and the rain just keeps on coming. I love the heat! But we can do without all of these torrential downpours everyday. Not cool!

black dress by susanhager featuring marc by marc jacobs handbags

Anyway it's the weekend! What better way to start it off than with this dress from Splendid. I love how easy and breezy it is and literally can be dressed in any direction. I didn't really know too much about the brand until they opened their first Chicago store at Westfield Old Orchard yesterday. Everything is butter soft! The prices are a little high for me for basics, but the feel is absolutely amazing and they have really cute items there! I stopped in and caught up with Danielle, Alaina, and Liz (who all looked fabulous sporting Splendid!) and ate a cake pop on my way out, though I could've had about 4 more of the delicious cupcakes and doughnuts they had there! It was a fun time and the store is beautiful. and right next to the J.Crew and Nordstrom (aka danger territory. Just kidding!)

Hope you all have happy weekends!!

Friday Fancies: Summer's Here!

Happy Friday friends! I'm so excited that today is officially the first day of summer, and fortunately, the temperatures say it's so. Now let's just get rid of this rain!

Summer's in full swing: volleyball has started (I love it!), summer lessons have been rearranged, work is summer camp which is really fun and we've been celebrating my mom's birthday this week (feel better Mom!). What I love about summer is the easiness of the clothing. Everything I wear in the summer has to be easy, cool, and just fun to wear. Enter reasons why I love linen! This dress hits everything here. I would love to have another linen fave in my closet. I love this panama hat and don't you just love these Maya Brenner necklaces? I love my country and my state and to be able to put them together? How fun! (Plus perfect for my favorite holiday that's right around the corner!). What's your summer staple? What's on your summer wishlist? Do tell!

summer wishin by susanhager featuring maya brenner jewelry

I'll be cheering loud and proud for the Hawks tomorrow night! It's going to be a good one!

Friday Fancies: Black, White and Scalloped All Over!

Happy Friday everyone! Can't believe we've finally made it here, but it's been a good week so far! Summer camp has started at work, so I've got a new bunch of kiddos and they are really super sweet. I finished up my stay with my two favorite pups and now it's the weekend! I can't wait to get a hair cut, watch the Blackhawks hopefully take another win, and enjoy Father's Day and the U.S. Open with the best dad I know.

But now it's fancies time! With this house sitting stay, I decided to take my hard-earned earnings and treat myself a tad. I already had an Anthro gift card leftover from Christmas, and when I saw this skirt in the store, I couldn't say no. You really have to see it to appreciate how fantastic it is: it's scalloped, it's striped, it's heavy-ish, and it flares out. It's truly a timeless piece and when I saw how fast it was going, I decided it was worth spending the rest of that gift card! What I love about it is how many different ways it can be styled, and for different seasons too. That's when you truly know you're getting the most bang for your buck: when a piece can take you from season to season, being used multiple different ways. I love the way that it's styled here on the model, but here's how I'd style it for a casual weekend dinner with friends.

black and white skirt by susanhager featuring kate spade earrings

I usually never buy an item from Anthropologie that's not on sale first, but couldn't pass this up. And that blouse? Target! Right? It's too perfect and now I may have to run over to Tar-get and pick one up!

Have wonderful weekends everyone!

Friday Fancies: Serious Sunnies

So I have this thing about sunglasses: there is only one style that really looks good on my face. I envy those who can pull off multiple styles! So I finally found the one that works for me, and these Tory Burch are similar. Big frame, dark color, and so comfy, I just love them. What's your go-to pair of sunglasses? Do you go with cheap ones, or invest in a nice pair?

sunnies by susanhager featuring chain jewelry

And plus, to me, this outfit is perfect for summer! I'm loving these sleeveless blouses that keep showing up and this chambray is no exception, it goes with everything. And I don't know about you but I love these YSL heels that Grace is always wearing in her style posts. I'd never be able to put them in my closet, but I love the look! and that floral necklace needs to come home with me. End of story!

I have a busy weekend ahead, starting with a celebration for my friend who is halfway done with med school. With piano lessons and a Cubs game ahead, it's sure to be a great weekend. Also, I'm studying for the GRE. Did anyone take it? Any survivors out there?? I'd love to hear!

Have a great weekend!

Friday Fancies: White Out!

Happy Friday everyone! For four days, this week was long, no? I'm so excited to enjoy the weekend with some sun, some good food, and hopefully a good run or two! And what's better than kicking this off with some good old whites? (with a splash of color that is!)

white out by susanhager featuring a t strap wedge

I love how girly this white frock is and it's so different from any other white dress out there! It could go miles, no?

Here's hoping that you all have the best weekends and enjoy these warmer temps!

Friday Fancies: Memorial Day!

As I sit here, it is 41 degrees.

41

We were 85 on Monday. Where did that go? This is not Memorial Day Weekend weather! This is March! We're in MAY! But I digress. I always love Memorial Day Weekend. It's always so nice to have that extra day off to just do whatever you'd like. In my case, having a family bbq and then gossiping with friends over the series premiere of the Bachelorette. 3 whole days of just pure relaxation! I can't help but love it.

memorial day by susanhager featuring fitted dresses

I've been drawn to blues lately. Literally this week I have worn blue almost every day. Classic cobalt and navies are perfect for this time of year and Old Navy has been killing it lately in the dress department. Great dresses for great deals and perfect for every summer occasion! This little frock is perfect! And I love this American flag bag! Fourth of July is my favorite holiday too and this bag is a great deal! Hopefully the temps will at least climb up to 70 this weekend.

What're your weekend plans? Hope you all have safe and happy ones! Visit Long Distance Loving for more Memorial Day inspired outfits!

Friday Fancies: Stripes!

So much for blogging every day in May! This gets difficult, I tell ya! One thing that's never difficult: Friday Fancies! The theme is stripes and as I sit here I just happen to be wearing one of my favorite striped tops. You can never go wrong with a stripe! Though it is sometimes difficult to find the right stripe that flatters your body, if you put in the leg work, it's totally worth it.

It took me awhile to catch on to the whole striped cotton dress. Why? No clue because I think that it's one of the cutest little dresses to have in your closet. It can go everywhere with you!

stripes by susanhager featuring kate spade tote bag

I wore mine to work the other day with my Nike tennis shoes on and I still thought I was rockin it! But this all comes together with a great denim jacket (I've worn mine so many times already, and it's only May!) and yes, I'm sorry, bear with me while I dream about these cute Kate Spade purses with the phrases on them. This is why it's Friday Fancies, correct? I've grown up in a family of golfers and this is just too cute to resist, especially with stripes, no?

I have a rather busy weekend ahead, but tonight we are finally going turtle racing! We've been talking about it for months, but now finally we're going for the turtles! Hopefully one of us will win/be able to race one! Enjoy spring wherever you are! Pop on over for more stripes at Long Distance Loving!

Friday Fancies: Weekend Wear

Happy Friday everybody! If you're like me, you live for the weekends, especially after long weeks like this one. I try to keep it simple on the weekends. Sometimes I like to dress up because my work wardrobe is more casual. But usually on weekends, it ends up looking something like this:

weekend wear by susanhager featuring a sailor stripe shirt

I feel most comfortable in jeans. My sisters think that I'm crazy to say that, but I really do love them and I could live in my Gap Skinny Jeans (in long). They're the perfect length for me and the cut is just the best. I always love long boyfriend cardigans and though this striped tee's pricey (hey, it's fancies after all!), you can't go wrong with stripes. And those TB flats are the best!

This weekend, I'm relaxing and finally recovering from all the allergies/sinus infection/bad vision/vertigo junk I've been experiencing. I feel so much better and hopefully I can get back to my regular routines soon! On Sunday night, I'm seeing The Tenors. Ever heard of them? If you watch PBS like we do you probably have. They've got the voices of angels. and they're super attractive. I.can't.wait!

Happy Mother's Day to all the Mother's out there!

Friday Fancies: Floral Frenzy

Happy Friday! We went from days with 80+ degree temps to 40 degrees with wind chills in the 30s. Yuck! I'm getting over whatever this sickness/allergies is: a sinus infection with partial, mild vertigo. Have you ever had vertigo? It's the weirdest feeling! I feel like that Alfred Hitchcock movie! Anyway, moving on.

So I haven't fully jumped on the floral trend just yet. I like it, but I'm afraid to jump all in. I do have a button down from Old Navy that I love and wear to work all the time, but it seems different in a blazer. I love this blazer with jeans, just dressed down and functional. Plus it's perfect for these cooler temperatures that we can't get rid of yet! Those boots are per-fection! Love them! They'd be perfect for summer, no?

We're heading up for a quick trip to Wisconsin for some R&R, fish and chips, and some good ol' Amish donuts. Have the best weekend everybody! Go visit Long Distance Loving

Friday Fancies: April Showers

Happy Friday all! I'm so happy that it's Friday, it's been a long one. Hopefully the weather's looking up, temps are climbing and May starts next week (seriously?!)! Well in honor of the last week of April and all the April showers storms we've been having in the Midwest, I'd wear this to brave the elements (with an unlimited budget of course!).

april showers by susanhager featuring a clear bubble umbrella

This trench is just classic, go with anything, have for life Burberry and I'd love to dance in the rain with that coat. I'd be lost without my classic black Hunter boots, and what a thrill it'd be to carry that Prada bag. Even just for five minutes! It's gorgeous!

Have great weekends everyone! My work is having our annual Benefit Fundraiser tonight and then I'm spending the rest of the weekend hanging with my family and soaking up the warmer temps. Happy Friday!

and see more Rain Lovin Looks on Long Distance Loving!

Friday Fancies: Neon

Did you know Neon is a country song by Chris Young? and a good one at that! (I was singing it while writing this!) Anyway, the theme this week is Neon and though I'm not the biggest on neons, I'll do it in small doses. I would make an exception for this dress. Yes, you've probably all seen it before now it's beautifully styled in the J.Crew catalog, but this is me dressing it for a sunny afternoon, and after this storm, I'd take anything!

neon scalloped by susanhager featuring a studded tote

And I may have a thing for these Kate Spade totes with the writing on them, and this one's too cute. Also, wedge season is back! Give me a 70 degree day and I'll be in wedges all weekend. I'd take an outdoor picnic too, with lots of barbeque and fresh fruit and homemade desserts... That's wishful thinking!

Hope you all have fantastic weekends! We're going to be cleaning and organizing around here to try to get our basement back to normal. Wish us luck! and check out the rest of the fancies on Long Distance Loving!

Friday Fancies: Can I have these Shoes?

Happy Friday to all! After yesterday's day at work, I am so ready for this weekend! Yes it includes more work, but also a day at the Cubs game with a few of my favorites, can't wait! (I'll be packing my parka. it.is.so.cold). But it'll be fun to go to my first game of the year.

mint and navy by susanhager featuring a leather shoulder bag

Anyway, to fancies! The theme this week is shoes. I will admit, I used to have no sense of style when it came to shoes. In fact, I would pick downright ugly ones that weren't flattering and added nothing to either my outfit or my style. Now, I believe I've gotten much better. Who wouldn't want to take home these new flats from J.Crew? They are gorgeous! I love the mint color and pairing them with a navy sweater seemed like a no-brainer. J.Crew Bonus: I love this new Biennial Satchel. My friend at work has the Biennial in navy, but I love it now in this new color and pattern. So ready for spring! *Chicago, warm up, please!*

Have fantastic weekends and see more swoon-worthy shoes over at Long Distance Loving!

Friday Fancies: Happy Spring + a Birthday Wish

We made it to Friday! Happy Friday all! I can't believe the first week of spring is here, although it still feels like winter here. Averages are supposed to be in the high 40s and it's 20 right now. I need some sun and a little bit of warmth ASAP (good thing I leave in 10 days...WHAT?!). But for the time being, this is what I'd wear now!

florals by susanhager featuring genuine leather handbags

I was sort of thinking of that Olivia Palermo photo of her in the floral jeans. She can wear anything! I would love to try these out for a nice coffee outside over looking the lake. How perfect does that sound? Anyway, anything with this much color is a win in my book! Bring on spring please!

Tonight is my sister Ellen's golden birthday. I told her that I would call her 22 times today playing that Taylor Swift song. We'll see how I do! She's the best friend anyone could ever ask for and I'm so excited tonight to celebrate her birthday. I love you so much Bella!

I hope you all have fantastic weekends! Hope it's spring in your neck of the woods (and check out Long Distance Loving for more inspiration!)

Friday Fancies: Luck O' the Irish

Top of the Morning to you ladies! Happy St. Patrick's Day! It's such a fun celebration and so fun to see everybody in the spirit. My family is Irish and we always cook up corned beef, roasted potatoes and Irish Soda Bread (can we make about 3 loves?) to celebrate the holiday. Oh and Green River too! I've been wearing green and white all week long, but tomorrow I'll be donning this:

Simple, easy, yet festive and classic. I love it! (Not to mention that I would probably wear it again, even after St. Patrick's Day's over!). I'll be celebrating with my sister and friend, eating good food and yes having some Green River! How are you celebrating? Head over to Long Distance Loving for more fancies and have a great one ladies!