Creature Comforts - daily inspiration, style, d.i.y. projects + freebies

Chic for Cheap: Art Inspired

Hello lovelies!  Last week's weather was cold (36 degrees) and rainy here.  I'm a California girl in shock...eek!  In a hurried attempt to keep my poor Converse-covered feet dry, I ran into Target and picked up a pair of their rain boots (surprisingly comfy) and a red umbrella (both featured above).  They along with this teacup print were the inspiration for this entire look. 

Melissa's put together a Chic for Cheap outfit on her blog too.  Stop on over and check it out.  xox Ez

• Teacup Art Print ~ Inkblok

• Knit Beret ~ Alloy
• Totes Stick Umbrella ~ Target
• Fleece-lined Knit Top ~ Forever 21
• Sleeveless Knit Cardigan Sweater ~ Forever 21
• Carson Stretch Cord Skinny ~ Alloy
• Knit Jacket with Optional Hood ~ Forever 21
• Zandra Flannel Rain Boots ~ Target

Chic for Cheap: A Baby Shower in New Hampshire

Hello lovelies!  It's been a while since my last Chic for Cheap post but I decided to end my hiatus to try my hand at helping out Jennifer; a reader (and mom to a 1 year old) who will soon be flying from California to New Hampshire to attend a family-hosted baby shower at a country club (with a dress code).  Being a Cali girl who is still trying to adjust to East Coast weather I figured this was my perfect challenge. 

Here's a bit more about Jennifer's specific needs:

"I'm in desperate need of your help in putting together a very chic look for an upcoming event that is taking place in two weeks!  I live in California and am flying out to New Hampshire for my sister-in-law's baby shower.  The shower is being held at a country club that has a strict dress code - no jeans.  On top of that, I'm bringing along my one year old daughter to introduce to majority of the family for the first time so I want to make sure I look presentable.  I have a bit of a dilemma - I've never been to the east coast outside of Summer so I'm not sure what the weather will be like so I want to make sure I'm prepared for whatever and I need to make sure that whatever I wear can keep up with chasing around a toddler.  I have looked just about everywhere for the right look and continue to come up short.  I would be forever so grateful if you could help me out with this!"

I realize that the look I came up with is on the neutral side (palette wise), but I wanted to focus on choosing materials that look luxe and more expensive then they are...and I think just about any mom could show up wearing this and feel great.  If the grey/black is too heavy, then I'd recommend adding in some color with the accessories.  Maybe a necklace with pops of color, or a fabulous bag.  Also, the weather this time of year can be rather unpredictable (so far as I've experienced) and warmer pieces such as the tights and sweater can be packed along and used or left off as the weather requires for the day of the event.  The little girl's outfit was just an add-on...the total for the main look is $153.29.

Melissa has put together an outfit on her blog too... so be sure to check that out.  Have fun Jennifer!  xox Ez

• Gold Hope Earrings ~ Patina Stores
• Classic Tights ~ American Eagle
• Printed Knit Tights ~ Baby Gap
• Belted Cable-knit Sweater Dress for babies ~ Old Navy
• Gauze Embossed Metallic Wallet ~ Forever 21
• Shiny Ballet Flats ~ Baby Gap
• Cabled Open Front Cardigan ~ Forever 21
• Dinner Party Dress ~ Mod Cloth
• Lizard Print Flats ~ Old Navy

One Good Thing: Leather Rings

I love the simple chic design of these colorful Leather Rings from ByBoe...and they're only $15!  What a steal! I think they'd look great strung on a long chain necklace too.  Don't you?!   xox Ez

Chic for Cheap: Inspired by Art on Etsy

Hello lovelies.  Today for this week's Chic for Cheap I put together an outfit inspired by this wonderful original collage by Valerie Roybal.  I love the romantic simplicity of the piece and tried to mirror her work in my final look.  I'm actually so in love with the dress that I think I might have to pick one up (even though I never wear dresses).  It would be such a great Fall/Winter staple paired with jeans, leggings, tights, etc., don't you think?!

Be sure to check out Melissa's look over on her blog Melissa Loves.  xox Ez

• Drapey Sweater Dress ~ Alloy
• Leggings ~ Charlotte Russe
• Truly Charmed Chain and Beaded Charm Chain ~ Forever 21
• Bourbon Street Ankle Boots ~ ModCloth
• Lace-up Clutch ~ Target

Chic for Cheap: Inspired by Art on Etsy

Hello lovelies!  I'm finally back to trying my hand at a Chic for Cheap challenge today.  Melissa and I decided to use art as our inspiration points again, and I rather like the way mine came out.  It's pretty basic, but something you can imagine being comfy in all Fall/Winter long.  Just throw on a few more layers (or take a few off if you need), and you're set!

Don't forget to see the look Melissa's put together on her blog: Melissa Loves.  xox Ez

• Inspiration: May All Beings Be Free, No.4 Letterpress Print ~ Lot 9 Press

• Mandarin Collar Top ~ Old Navy
• Slender Hip-slung Khakis ~ Gap
• Las Ramblas Scarf ~ Mod Cloth
• Arielle Girlfriend Cardigan ~ Delia's
• Belle Suede Boots (not exactly cheap - but you'd get a lot of wear out of them) ~ Delia's

Chic for Cheap: An Art Inspired Look

Hello lovelies!  Well this may be my last Chic for Cheap post for at least a week as I will be driving across the country when next Tuesday rolls around.  I will try to get one together ahead of time to post for you, but I thought I ought to let you all know just in case I can't.

I wanted my outfit for today to be both inspired by this lovely art print as well as serve as a multifunctional look that could easily be accessorized differently and worn not just now, but through the coming Fall too (I'm thinking matchstick jeans or leggings under the tunic would accomplish that quite nicely).  What do you think?

Remember Melissa has put together her own Chic for Cheap outfit...you can find it on her blog: Melissa Loves.

• Inspiration: "Circulation" Print by Sooooound

• Paisley Tunic Dress ~ Alloy ($42.50)
• Edie Flats ~ Alloy ($24.90)
• Shell Teardrop Earrings ~ Charlotte Russe ($4.00)
• Acrylic Metal Bangle Set ~  Forever 21 ($5.80)
• Cornelia Bag in Taupe ~ Alloy ($36.90)

xoxo Ez

Chic for Cheap: Inspired by a Flickr Photo

Camilla Engman is one of my favorite artists.  Her depictions of little creatures and the way she fawns over her beautiful dog Morran makes me smile to no end.  I chose this particular image of hers: "Visiting the Sea" because I wanted to try for a look that is casual and fun...maybe for a day of relaxation near the sea?!

Don't forget to stop over and see Melissa's look on her blog Melissa Loves.  Hope you are having a terrific Tuesday so far.  xox Ez

• Crochet-trim Woven Dress ~ Forever 21
• Destructed Cropped Jeans ~ Gap
• Rope-trim Sandals in brown ~ Old Navy
• Mossimo Supply Co. Crossbody Bag ~ Target
• Triple-wrap Army Green Leather Bracelet ~ Elsa Chela
• Cafe Habana Fedora ~ Fred Flare
• Swan Lake Sunglasses in Olive ~ Fred Flare

Chic for Cheap: A Room Inspired Look

Good morning lovelies!  Melissa and I had the chance to sit side by side while creating our Chic for Cheap posts for today...a blast and a total dream come true for me!  You can see her outfit right here.

My translation from outfit to room is a bit arbitrary this time around, but I like imagine this outfit being worn on a summer day spent browsing through books at the library, followed by a trip to the local sweets shop for a cup of coconut and macadamia nut gelato.  Yummers!  xox Ez

• Inspirational Room ~ House to Home

• Arielle Girlfriend Cardigan ~ Delias
• Embellished V-neck Tee ~ American Eagle
• Bead End Linen Shorts ~ Forever 21
• Classic Readers Glasses ~ Forever 21
• Converse Chevron Shoes ~ Delias
• Animal Wheel Totes ~ Xenotees

Mini Obsession: Statement Necklaces

{photo from Dinosaur Designs}

I've been having a bit of an obsession lately with big eye-catching statement necklaces.  I'm especially fond of seeing them paired with a classic tee or tank top and some great shorts, jeans, or other suitably relaxed option.  The perfect juxtaposition!

Below are a few of my current favorite picks in the wallet-friendly price range (most of them are from one source...sorry).

Top Row (left to right):

• Multi Chains with Ribbon Necklace - $8.80
• Braided Box Pendant Necklace - $34.50
• Sophia Necklace - $19.90
• Pleated Bead Trim Ribbon Necklace - $6.80

Bottom Row (left to right):

• Tribal Wooden Necklace - $10.80
• Petite Posies Necklace - $7.80
• Eclectic Sequin Bib Necklace - $17.80
• Leaf Cluster Cord Necklace - $14.80

What mini obsession(s) are you having this week?  xox Ez

Inspired Style: All This Happiness

Hello lovelies!  As you read this I am likely sitting on an airplane on my way to New Jersey where my house/apartment hunt will begin (wish me luck).  I ran out of time to put together a regular Chic for Cheap post for you all, but Melissa has one up on her blog... so pop on over to see what she's come up with.

In place of my regular post I wanted to share the fabulously inspirational style of All This Happiness (I'm not sure what her actual name is).  Her ensembles are so fantastic and each piece is budget friendly (which makes her even more inspirational in my opinion). Visit her flickr photostream for more awesome looks.  You can visit her blog too.  xox Ez

Chic for Cheap: Wedding Guest (full-figure edition)

Today's Chic for Cheap post comes at the request of CC reader Molly.  She will soon be attending a wedding with her husband and is struggling to find something affordable, fetching and figure flattering.  Here's how Molly describes her challenge:

"I especially love your Chic for Cheap posts, but as much as I love them I can rarely wear any of the looks because I'm a plus sized girl...I usually wear about a size 18. I'm sure I'm not the only one out there, so I thought I'd email you with my latest wardrobe dilemma.
My specific problem is that I'm going to an outdoor wedding in a few weeks.  My husband will be the best man, so I'll be standing next to him all day (he'll be wearing a tux) and I don't want to look too informal. July in Maryland is hot and humid, so I'd like to be in something lightweight and airy. Because of my own self-image, I'm not keen on showing a lot of leg (i.e. above the knee...I like to think I have nice legs from the knee down though!) or my upper arms. And a great deal of the wedding and reception will be on grass, so wedge heels that won't sink into the dirt are a big plus. I am totally open to lots of color and/or pattern, I'm an art teacher and don't mind looking the part!"

For Molly's outfit I decided to show two colors of the same dress since both are equally lovely, but one might appeal to her more than the other (they are available up through size 18).  The accessories would go beautifully with either dress and since the dress is sleeveless I picked out a little white scarf that can be draped across her shoulders and upper arms to cover that area while still allowing her breath in all that heat and humidity.  Finally the shoes (the hardest part for me to find this time around) are wedges (perfect for the grass) and have a slight metallic sheen to them (which makes them just dressy enough to get away with).  I hope this is of some help to you Molly.  Have a great time at the wedding!  Don't forget to check out Melissa's outfit on her blog right here.  xox Ez

• Beaded Georgette Dress (in Deep Seafoam or Forest Green)  ~ Newport-News
• Marisella Dangling Earrings ~ Forever 21
• Fringed Gauze Scarf ~ Old Navy
• Set of 2 Bangles ~ NYLightMetals
• Metallic Elizabeth Slingback Wedges ~ Target

Looking for more Chic for Cheap inspiration... see all the past outfits right here.

Chic for Cheap: Inspired by Art on Etsy

After finding this wonderful print on etsy the other day I just knew that it was begging to be translated into an outfit for Chic for Cheap.  I didn't want to go too literal (matching my outfit to the girl in the painting) so I tried to think outside the box just a bit.  I imagine this look being perfect for an early evening date...followed by some star gazing of course (here's hoping the stars will be a tad more friendly).

My friend Melissa has put together a Chic for Cheap outfit too...you can see it on her blog: Melissa Loves.

• The Stars Are Against Me Tonight print ~ dkim art

• Priti Natural Nail Polish  in St. Catherine's Lace ~ Spirit Beauty Lounge
• Black Chic Earrings ~ Triz Designs
• Navy Vintage Embroidered Indian Dress ~ Whimsyville
• Fortune Bracelet Set ~ Forever 21
• 'Classy' Sandals in Latte by Nicole Miller ~ JCPenney

Looking for some more Chic for Cheap inspiration?  See all the past looks I've put together right here.
xoxo Ez

Chic for Cheap: An Art Inspired Look

Of all the Chic for Cheap challenges that Melissa and I put together...I tend to have the most fun with the looks inspired by art.  I really like the way this one came together and the subtle ways the outfit mirrors the lovely art by Mati Rose.  To see what Melissa has put together, visit her on her blog Melissa Loves. 

xox Ez

Art inspiration: Feather Power by Mati Rose (aka Suspect Shoppe)

• Sunglasses ~ Forever 21
• Sunrise Crochet Top ~ Ruche
• Five Little Feathers Necklace ~ Leoravon
• Black Paperbag Waist Shorts ~ Target (I own these and they are awesome)
• Decree® Gemini Sandals ~ JCPenney

Chic for Cheap: A $50 (or less) Office Makeover

I loved the Chic for Cheap challenge that reader Lindsey gave to us this week.  She has recently taken on a new job and wants to jazz up her workspace, but painting or drastic changes to the room are out of the question...that and she wants to spend no more than $50!  This truly was a challenge and forced me to try to think outside the box a bit...especially when it came to bringing color into the room.  Here my ideas are for a chic updated space...with only $27.00 out of pocket!

• Use pretty paper to line desk drawers and add some much needed color to your work area (keep paper in place with double sided tape) or use it to dress up the covers of plain plastic binders ~ Gift Wrap from Parkside Papers
• Flowers on your desk are an instant pick me up and you can change them as frequently as you'd like.  Before you run out and buy some though, take a look around where you live and see if there are any blooms that are free for you to clip and enjoy.  During the Fall, look for pretty leaves and in the winter; decorative branches, pine cones or fir branches  ~ Floral inspiration by Something to See
• Download and print decorative labels to keep your files, books, and such organized.  Visit the following links for some great free printable labels:  Oval Labels (by me)  |  Rectangular Labels (by me)  | Pretty Rectangular Labels from i-DiY (found via Yellow Goat)
• It's important to surround yourself with things that make you happy.  I have these pencils on my desk and they never fail to bring a smile to my face.  You might find some other little affordable detail that means something to you. ~ pencils by Simplesong
• A vintage milk glass container can serve as both a pencil cup and a vase.  Smaller vintage containers could be used to organize paperclips, pushpins and such. ~ vintage milk glass from Adventures in White.
• Keep your files in order with this great vintage wire basket ~ from 26 Olive Street

I hope this has given you some ideas for your space Lindsey.  Be sure to check out Melissa's room ideas right here.  And if you want to see a fabulous office makeover for $0...visit Suzanne's lovely blog!
xox Ez

Chic for Cheap: Inspired by a Flickr Photo

 The Inspiration (by Jessica E.)

Hello lovelies...it's chic for cheap time!  Today's look was inspired by one my my favorites on flickr.  I so wish that those storage drawers were mine...don't you just love them?!

I first started my outfit with the linen pants, because I just purchased this exact pair over the weekend and I'm a bit obsessed.  Everything else was selected with comfort in mind (hopefully without sacrificing style).  I envision wearing this outfit out to brunch with the girls or for a fun day of window shopping.

Don't forget to check out Melissa's look right here.

• Pleated Henley - Old Navy
• Kirstie Striped Scarf - Delias
• Drawstring Linen-blend Pants - Gap
• Chantel Button Hobo Bag - Delias
• Sleek Leather Flip-flops - Gap

xox Ez

Chic for Cheap: Graduation from Med School

Today Melissa and I had a special request to put together a sophisticated look for a lovely reader, who will soon be graduating from medical school.  Here's how Kim describes her outfit needs: "I need something for graduation, but not just any graduation.  I'm finally finishing medical training after a combination of 15 years of undergrad, med school, a masters degree, general residency & subspecialty fellowship.  Graduation is a dinner and then awards ceremony.  I'd like to wear something sophisticated, but a little eccentric (& since I'm currently still making a training salary, it can't be too pricey)."

When putting together my outfit I tried to focus on classy pieces that could be worn over and over again for many different occasions (this is the best way to stretch a budget)... and chose the pretty salmon pink to fill in as the "eccentric" flair that Kim was hoping for. 

Congratulations Kim!  Enjoy your graduation immensely... you deserve it!  Don't forget to check out Melissa's look right here.  xox Ez

• Draped Top - Banana Republic
• Merino Crosshatch Cardigan - J.Crew
• High-waisted Pique Pencil Skirt - Banana Republic
• Briana Earrings - Armelle
• Verity Platform Pumps - Target

Chic for Cheap: A Real Room Inspired Look

Melissa and I usually use the same theme for our Chic for Cheap post, but this week we've each put together looks using our own inspirations.  Pop on over to Melissa Loves to see what she dreamed up.

I decided to base my outfit off of a real room this time around.  My inspiration came from Marichelle's lovely home.  I just adore the little buntings that she made for her walls, and she even has a couple left in her shop if you are interested. 

{GET IT}

• Mini Disk Bead Necklace - Forever 21
• Ruffled Pinstripe Shirt - Forever 21
• Perfect Khaki Pencil Skirt - Old Navy
• Betty-ky Bag in black - Jujie
• "Josh" Pumps - Endless
• Adele Floral Center Ring - Forever 21

Chic for Cheap: A Drinks + Dessert Bridal Shower

Hello lovelies!  Today's Chic for Cheap outfit comes at the request of reader Jennifer.  She will be getting married soon (congratulation Jennifer) and is in need of a pulled together look for her evening drinks + dessert bridal shower.  Here's how she describes her challenge:

"My aunts are throwing me a shower in late July.  It's going to be in the evening for desserts and drinks, while they're vacationing on Cape Cod (I live nearby so I'd drive down for the shower).  It is going to be buggy!  I am not sure I want to wear a dress and have the mosquitoes get me!  Any ideas for a cute look for me, a busty gal, that's appropriate for an evening shower that's NOT a dress?"

I wanted to put something together that looked classy enough for cocktails, but that was also feminine and sweet.  Unfortunately I overlooked the "busty" part in Jennifer's request so I'm not sure if the cami would be the right pick in this case... but something soft and fluttery with a bit more coverage would do the trick. 

Have a wonderful bridal shower Jennifer.  Don't forget to check out Melissa's look right here.

• Tissue Chiffon-trim Cardigan - J.Crew
• Satin Cami - American Eagle
• Recycled Flower Bobby Pin - set of 2 - The Intrinsic Garden
• Pearl Drop Earring Trio - American Eagle
• Jackson Weekend Trouser - Banana Republic
• Latico Large Eel Skin Wallet - Endless
• Nine West "Josh" Pumps - Endless

xox Ez

Chic for Cheap: A Look Inspired by Home Accessories

Today's Chic for Cheap challenge is a little bit different, in that Melissa and I chose a broad subject to be our inspiration: Accessories (either home or fashion).  I ended up finding this fabulous pillow last week and thought it would translate perfectly into a laid back spring/summery outfit.  I imagine wearing this outfit out with friends, eating lunch on a sunlit patio, and then riding bikes around the park afterward.  Fun, right!

Don't forget to check out the look that Melissa put together right here.  As always, you are all invited to play along.  Leave a link to your look in the comments section below.  If you don't have a photo editing program on your computer you can use Polyvore (be careful, because it can be addicting).

The Inspiration: Colt Circles in Seafoam - Cushion Cover - Skinny Laminx

• Gray Cressida Tux Vest - Ruche
• Boy-fit Jeans in Faded Railroad Wash - American Eagle
• Organic Green Earrings - Shiho Yamashita
• Minus Hipster Bag in Khaki Green - Minus
• Sleek Leather Flip Flops - Gap

Chic for Cheap: An Art Inspired Look

Good morning and happy Tuesday everyone!  Don't you just love the perfect casual and effortless outfit?!  I'm always on a mission to wear something simple like this art inspired look, but I'm afraid I resort to my safe jeans and tees far too often.  Time to mix things up just a little bit!  If you could wear any new look, what would it be?

Be sure to check out Melissa's look right here.  Hope your day has started out beautifully!  xox Ez

• Inspired Nesting art print - groundwork
• Smokey Grey Conierto Shirt - Ruche
• Embroidered Bird Brooch - Squirrellicious
• Lightweight Striped Hip Slung Pants - Gap
• Ellison Tote Bag - Forever 21
• Metallic Braid T-Strap Sandals - Old Navy