Rarely do I get excited to shop locally because I forever miss my nice malls and department stores, however when something new opens, I’m one of the first to check it out!  I’ll never give up my online shopping, but it’s nice to have a “go to” store that you can pick up something trendy and relatively inexpensive.  Recently a store opened up less than 5 miles from my house that has fulfilled this need: Apricot Lane.

Apricot Lane is a locally owned/operated franchise that has locations country wide (check out locations here).  The store has lots and lots of dresses, tops, jeans, accessories, and wait for it….customer service!!!!  I was starting to think that customer service was dead until I found this store.  I tend to shop with my toddler (think tiny hands touching every piece of inventory) and the owner of the store was not only okay with it, but she helped watch my daughter while I tried on clothes!  It was such a relief to deal with friendly staff and support a local shop.  Some of their brands include: Free People, Joe’s Jeans, BB Dakota, Miss Me and more.

If you have a store nearby, you might also consider having a FASHION PARTY.  I am thinking of having one myself because all guests of the party get a discount on their purchases and the host gets even deeper discounts!  It’s like a Tupperware Party, but with adorable clothes.  What’s not to love?!

If you are a Syracuse local (or passing through the area…lol), please check them!  Located in Wegmans Plaza Dewitt.  If you’re out of state, see if you have an Apricot Lane near you!

shops love!

xoxo

Most places in the country are starting to warm up…we hit 70 today (don’t ask me about tomorrow’s high, but whatever).  Even though that’s not *technically* warm enough for sleeveless tops, I’m ready to think spring which means wardrobe updates!  I am loving some of these fun, flirty and so very SPRING tops…with a twist!!!

Edme & Essyllte Tank – so light, so lacey, so tied up in adorable striped bow.  This is perfect for days or evenings and nothing gives you a waist better than a colorfully cinched bow! Anthropologie $78

Weston Wear Vera Tunic – I just love this print.  It’s so vibrant, floral-esque, and a little tribal.  Again, a slimming tie to the waist and a delicate sheer fabric.  Totally feminine and spring.  Nordstrom $108

Hive & Honey Embroidered Top – Beautiful coral (I’m not going to let you forget this years color) with white embroidery on the chest.  Cap sleeves make it exactly what spring wants – not ready for a tank top, but refuse to wear anything heavier…here is your compromise.  Tied at the waist without tying up your wallet – $44, Piperlime.

shops love!

I’ve always been intrigued by the idea of a secret society, but a secret shoe society is even better.  Since this is too good to keep secret, it’s actually just called Sole Society!  Obvi, the Shopaholic loves shoes.  But what I really love is shoes that are less than $50 and totally cute and comfortable. This is just that!  Sole Society (owned by HauteLook) is an exclusive, members only shoe site that customizes shoe selections just for you.  I was scared off at first because it seemed to have a $49.95/month membership fee, HOWEVER that fee buys you a pair of shoes (of your choice) each month.  Here’s how it works:

-Take the Style Quiz and they will decide what type of shoe personality you have.  You can opt for a different style if you feel they’ve misread you.

-On the first of the month, you will receive an email with your 6 shoe selections.  Choose one and it’s mailed to you ($49.95).  If you do not like any, you can request different styles OR opt not to get a pair that month.  If you opt out, you DO NOT pay the $49.95 fee for the month.

—So it’s simple…you like the shoes, you buy it for $49.95…you don’t like any, you pay nothing.  Another selling point is that it’s free shipping!  If they don’t fit or you don’t like them in person, send them back free shipping!

So, more important stuff…the shoe’s are all designed by Marco Santi who is known for runway shoes (read runway, hear super stylish and of the moment).  My first *sole mate* is Brazen, a metallic peep toe that is going to be so fun this summer (the website is so exclusive that I can’t seem to copy the picture).  I assure you they are fab.

Check them out here !!!!  Don’t let me get away with being the only one walking around in amazing $49.95 shoes!

shops love!

The Shopaholic is not very good at apologies BUT she’s great at excuses.  Life took over…Remember I have a 40 hr/week job to pay for my shopping habits…oh right, and a hubby and toddler.  I escaped the cold for a week – this winter had me in a funk that not even the highest credit limit could cure – and thankfully the sun has shone for like 15 hours total this month which is a huge improvement!!  The Shopaholic has also taken up an insane fitness challenge (check out the INSANITY workout if you’re interested) – so that takes up so much of my precious free time.  My rationality is that the working out will make shopping even more FUN!  On top of everything else, the Shopaholic has a birthday this week!!!  Actually pretty excited to see what 28 has to offer.  Okay, so I think we’re caught up on my 45 day hiatus…here’s what I’m digging right now!

STEM Drop Neck Sweatshirt – perfect for springy days and summer evenings.  I LOVE this color – I did mention that the coral colors are big this season, no?  Nordstrom, $64

J.Crew Button-Up Sundress (available in 3 colors) is the perfect way to begin summer.  Pairs perfect with any color – but I’d go with a near colorless nude wedge…nothing says summer like simplicity.  $68

I think Spring…I think flowers.  This top does it for me.  Pattern is subtle, the details are feminine, the length is perfect.  Oh the best part?  $39.  Vero Moda via ASOS

I hope we’re friends again…next time I disappear for 6 weeks, assume I’m broke and working a second job that PAYS for my shopping habits.

shops love!