The Pretty Pear

Brrr!

I guess it's time to start thinking about sweaters, boots and coats. To ease us into the long winter ahead, here are some of my picks for the new season.

Maxi down coat
Sometimes you need a super warm, puffy coat that covers your butt. That's just how life works. This super warm, puffy coat is available in black from Lane Bryant in sizes 14/16 - 26/28 for $190.

Gigi Boots
Unless I can find a pair I like more, I'm going to order these and see how they fit, if they're warm and comfy, etc. I will be snipping off those fluffy things if I keep them, though. It's a cute touch but not really my style. Available from Avenue in sizes 8 - 13 wide in black or brown, on sale for $35.

Belted wool-blend coat
There was a really cute green version of this coat that I wanted to showcase but I guess it sold out. A lot of people seem to be confused about the 3/4th sleeve coat. My answer to that is: long gloves! It's definitely a look and very vintage, in a way. I think it's adorable. The down coat from the beginning of this post is definitely for "It's freezing and I'll be outside for a while." This coat is "It's cold but I'm not playing in the snow or anything." Dressier. It's available in sizes 1 - 4X from Old Navy is on sale right now for $57.

Ros Hommerson: Trot
Have you ever thought to yourself "Self, I could really use a pair of red, suede, knee high boots!" but were unable to find them? Well, here ya go. They also come in black but, I mean... red suede. The best part is that they have an 18.5" shaft and come in medium. wide, and extra wide widths. They're $176 from Zappos, which always ships for free and has excellent customer service.

If I ever become very, very rich...

I'd just order one of everything in every color from Kiyonna from now until eternity. First, check out what's coming up for May. The Manhattan dress makes me wish I had an office job just so I could wear it. Those items are all on pre-order so you'll have to wait a bit.

If you're itching for something new right this second, the Madison Avenue dress might be your new favorite. It has a beautifully sexy twisted keyhole detail that emphasizes the waist and bust but the overall cut is modest enough for any occasion. This is a seasonless dress, so you could wear it now with heels or in the fall or winter with tights and boots. This would be a good dress to have on hand because you could wear it just about anywhere. It's available in red or basic black for $132.

New sandals from Avenue

Avenue has several new sandals for spring and these Irene wedges are my favorite. They're available in black and white but I think the pink is adorable and way more exciting. The color and shine reminds me of fabulous pink lipstick. If you're not a fan of heels but still want some height and sexiness, a wedge is a great alternative. They're available in sizes 8 - 13 wide for $39.95.

Avenue has many more new items for spring and I'll be posting about those soon.

Flirty skirts from Lane Bryant

I'm seeing so many cute skirts popping up right now and Lane Bryant has several that I really like. All of these are made from crisp cotton and can be dressed up for work with heels or dressed down with casual flats or sandals for the weekend. I'd wear any of these with a simple top to let the pattern on the skirt be the focal point.

Multi dot seamed skirt
I read somewhere that dot prints are "out" this spring but screw that, this is a cute print! The seaming creates a flouncy look that can balance out your top half if you're busty and skim over your hips and emphasize the waist. If you're trying to create an hourglass shape, look for a skirt that draws the eye out a little at the hem.

Floral print yoke skirt
What's springier than flowers? I'm generally not into frou frou floral but I like the bold colors in this print. It's pretty and feminine without being too over the top. The ivory background is fresh and flattering on more skin tones than stark white. The cut is very similar to the previous skirt above.

Jacquard floral print skirt
This one is my favorite because I'm in love with the print. If you click through and view the close up, the black floral is layered over a subtle white on gray dot print. This skirt also has the seaming for flair and the solid hem will balance out your waist and hips even more. I think this would be adorable with a simple, rosy pink top and silver sandals.

Lane Bryant has many more skirts here. Don't forget to use a coupon!

Finally! Spring!

The weather is just lovely today here in Chicago, sunny and warm but not too warm. Spring officially began a month ago but because the midwest has really unpredictable weather, I haven't been feeling springy yet. But we've waited long enough and I've decided that today is the first day of Spring here at the Pretty Pear. To celebrate, I'll be sharing some of my picks of the latest and cutest from various retailers.

To start, check out this dress by Mossimo from Target. It's made of 100% linen, which is light and breathable for warm weather and the color combination and print are adorable. The cut is very similar to a dress I picked up at Target last year, which I love and works well if you're smaller on top with fuller hips. I know some of you are wary of showing your arms, so you could layer a light, short sleeved, cropped cardigan like this one on top. The dress is $30 and available in sizes 16/18 through 28/30.

Some recent acquisitions

I've been doing a little shopping lately! Well, I'm always doing a little shopping but... ok here's some stuff I've bought.

There's something about black and white damask prints that really grab me and I will always at least consider buying whatever the item is. I even have a set of dishes from Target in a similar pattern.

I took a gamble and ordered a pair of these satin flats from Old Navy online and yay, they're awesome. I went up to a 9 (I'm usually an 8.5) and they fit great. They're really flattering on the foot, too. They won't last long before wearing out but I'm not planning on hiking in them or anything.

I know I've said this about a billion times but I really do love the knit tees from Kiyonna. I haven't ordered the Central Park Keyhole Top just yet but I will, very soon. What's great is that I know I'm going to love this top. I'm not sure the red would be very flattering on me, so I'm ordering it in black. I hope they make it in more colors soon because I know I'm going to want more.

I finally found and purchased my perfect green bag: the Giani Bernini Flap Satchel from Macy's. The green looks slightly different in person. It's lighter, more vibrant and perfect. I loooooove this bag. I wish the lining was cuter but no one sees that but me anyway. Otherwise, it's perfect and not crazy expensive at $52.

A few months ago, I tried on a really cute purple CK top at Macy's that I loved. I can't find it online now but believe me, it's really cute. Unfortunately, I couldn't justify spending $70 on it but then, last weekend, I found it at Marshall's for $25! I guess that's probably only really exciting to me.

Anyway. here's a simple "Head to Toe" look that I'll be wearing once the weather stops being craptastic!

Some random stuff...

This adorable Angry Owl necklace from ModCloth is only 15 bucks. The chain is plenty long, which is vital for plus sizes but not always easy to find. ModCloth doesn't carry plus size clothing but their accessories are so cute, I can forgive them.

I was at Target recently and picked up a pair of these Converse One Star sneakers in brown. I've had Converse sneakers in the past that I loved but were too narrow to wear for more than five seconds at a time. These run much wider and are so comfortable, I'm thinking about ordering another pair in charcoal gray. I got them in a size 8 and I usually wear an 8.5 in sneakers, so they run a little big. $30 for a pair of classic sneakers that actually fit my wide feet? Happy me!

Speaking of happy, check out these fun Tray 6 Umbrellas from wishingfish,com. It looks like several of the designs are temporarily sold out but my favorite, the gray with the little birdies, is still available. These are way cooler than my boring black umbrella. Hrmph!

I have this Nebula clutch by IMOOI in black and it's the perfect size and shape for a simple but unique clutch. It's faux leather and ultrasuede but it looks and feels like the real thing. The wrist strap is great and reduces the chances of me leaving the bag sitting somewhere. The red is more interesting but I needed a simple (but not boring) black clutch that goes with everything.

I haven't seen these Haddie Slingbacks from Payless in person but I get so excited when I spot cute shoes in wide widths! Especially when they're only $20. Have I mentioned my love for polka dots? These would be so perfect with a dress for the summer or capri pants all 50s style. Don't forget the bright red toenail polish!

If you're looking to update your handbag for Spring, eBags is having a 20% off sale through tonight at midnight MST.

This jacket wants to come live with me

I'm hoping this black satin trench coat from Torrid will go on sale soon. I'm trying to be good and not buy things I don't need but that's one cute jacket. It's not too jazzy for daytime and it'd be really perfect with trousers for a special night out. And y'know, the holidays are coming. Perfect party outfit jacket!

I probably wouldn't get a ton of wear out of it before it got too cold so I'm resisting. But! If you live in a warmer climate, you might wear it all the time. Every day! And then you can let me borrow it.

Monday quick picks!

Black vinyl leggings, $24 from Torrid
I don't know if I'm in love with these, horrified by them, or both. As Tim Gunn would say, they're "a lot of look." They are quite Beth Ditto-ish so if you're dressing as her for Halloween, then you've found the bottom half of your outfit. I just gave myself a costume idea...

Cashmere short sleeve sweater, $70 from Old Navy
Old Navy has three cashmere sweater styles on their website currently. I like this updated short sleeve version the best. I see it with herringbone or pinstripe brown trousers for work or jeans and flats for casual days. I'm a little obsessed with cashmere and I might actually break down and buy myself a sweater this year. I say that every year, though.

Labyrinth Bowling Bag, $50 from Wrapables
I'm lusting after this bag big time. I love black and white prints like this and the extra large size (18" x 12") makes it great for so many uses, including:

• Overnight bag
• Laptop bag
• Carry on bag
• Why do I have so much stuff? bag

And there are matching cosmetic bags for even more of your stuff.

Some recent picks

I picked up this black short sleeve wrap jacket ($48) on my last trip to Torrid. It was a whim but I'm glad I tried it on because hello, cute and versatile. It buttons on the inside, has a cute tie to the side and a little peplum detail on the back. The cotton/spandex blend is light and comfy and the length is just right for layering with a longer cami. I picked up this teal green cami ($16) but the layering possibilities are limitless. Speaking of Torrid's camis, I love them. I have a lot of tanks and camis for layering and Torrid's are my favorite.

I've been staring wistfully at this Holly Aiken bag for, I don't know, months now. I want it, bad. Aside from the cute black and white print and a unique but practical shape, it's made of vinyl so it's animal-friendly, too. It's $104, which is more than I've ever spent on a bag, but after staring at it for so long, I'm pretty sure I really, really do want it.

Continuing with my love of black and white prints is this roundabout print ruched-sleeve blouse ($40) from Lane Bryant. I've always liked LB's cotton/spandex blend blouses for their versatility and overall quality and I really love this one. The sleeves are ruched a bit and the print is subtle but visually interesting. It comes with a belt in the same fabric but I like it better with a wider belt either in black or a bold color like red or pink as an accent.

I'm already looking forward to fall and these updated pumps by Vaneli ($109) from Zappos are perfect for that transition. They're open and airy but the deep raspberry suede lends itself to cooler weather. They also come in black suede but I like the punch of color. They're available in wide widths, of course.

Weekly Picks: My favorite time of year

I love this time of year. It's getting chilly, the leaves are showing new color, and nothing sounds better than a warm cup of tea and a snuggly blanket. But you might have to leave the comfort of your couch and brave the cold, so you'll be needing some warm clothes. I'm just excited because here in Chicago, we're already deep into sweater season.

The Eddie Bauer website describes this Long-Sleeve V-Neck Cotton/Modal/Cashmere Sweater as "luxurious" and considering the fiber content, I'd certainly hope so. And it's on sale for $40. I imagine this would fit into any woman's closet perfectly. Wear it tweed trousers, please. And maybe a crisp white button up shirt underneath. And a pair of those Louboutin heels with the red soles that I'll never be able to afford. I'll try not to be jealous.

Lane Bryant is already showing pieces from their holiday collection and I am just drooling over these Crushed Velvet Jackets for $99.50. All of the colors look gorgeous but my eye is on the Bluemarine, my favorite color for fall this year. I love jackets because they are so versatile and this one could be dressed up with the coordinating charmeuse skirt or dressed down for a night out with jeans and strappy sandals. Love. It.

I've been seeing cowl necklines all over the place lately and gray is a big color (or non-color, I guess) right now so why not just knock out two trends with one sweater? I'm all about efficiency. This sweater from Old Navy also comes in red, another big color for fall and winter. It has a touch of angora for softness and for $40, it's an affordable treat.

I've been rationing my tube of Bliss Magnolia Body Scrub for a month or two now. It's the most moisturizing body scrub I've ever used. I hardly need lotion after using it. I have very dry skin that craves moisture and exfoliation so this scrub is a real treat. It's definitely a splurge at $30 for 8.5 ounces but it's very much a pampering little treat for you and your skin. There's also a matching Magnolia Moisture Mousse for $32, which I love as well.

Weekly Picks: Tickled Pink!

In honor of Breast Cancer Awareness month, this week's picks are all in support of finding a cure!

Bare Necessities has a very special offer - $2 from the sale of every Wacoal bra will be donated to the Susan S. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation. Wacoal bras are available up to 44G and come in a wide range of styles. If your bra wardrobe is in need of a lift (ha!) now would be a great time to treat yourself to a new one! Bare Necessities also has $5 shipping every day.

For the month of October, Kiyonna will be donating 10% of sales from their Pink Boutique to the Susan S. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation. With lots of pretty pink tops, dresses, and lingerie to choose from, this is a good opportunity to dip your toes into Kiyonna if you've been holding back!

Bare Escentuals Pink Passion
If you're very fair like I am, you can use Rose Radiance as a beautiful every day blush. I dust it lightly on the tops of my cheeks and it brightens up my whole face. I'm usually mortified of blush so the fact that I use Rose Radiance every day says a lot! The set also comes with a matching Rose Radiance lipgloss and an all-over face brush. Getting all three items in one set is a great deal and a portion of the proceeds will go to the National Breast Cancer Foundation! It's also a great way to try Bare Escentuals if you're new to the line.

For more great beauty promotions that support the cause, click over to Product Girl!

One of the easiest ways to make a difference is to click daily at the Breast Cancer Site. Your clicks help to fund free mammograms for women in need. What can be better than that?

Weekly Picks: So Ladylike

Philosophy: Amazing Grace
I wouldn't normally recommend a specific fragrance because I think that a woman's perfume is a highly subjective and personal matter. However, after trying various Amazing Grace products for the past month or two, I cannot rave about them enough. The bodywash, lotion, and perfume are all perfect compliments to each other and even with that kind of layering, the scent is never overwhelming or even obvious. It's subtle, soft and feminine. The only word to describe the scent is "fresh." The first time I wore the perfume, a good friend gave me a hug, sniffed me and said "you smell like a baby!" and then proceeded to bury his face in my neck. It's the kind of scent that draws people closer to you, instead of making them want to run for the hills. I just love it.

I'm really digging these shoes from Irregular Choice. I'm not usually drawn to such "busy" shoes but these are just adorable. I love the beautiful embroidered satin coupled with the strong lines and colors. Wouldn't they be cute with a denim pencil skirt and a simple little sweater? Yes, they would. Best of all? They come in wide widths. Get them at zappos.com.

I poked a little fun at Torrid in my last post, but they do carry some Halloween items that won't make you look like a hooker. I mean, looking like a hooker for Halloween is fine and dandy, but maybe not in the days before Halloween. Instead, I'd prefer a cute pair of orange and black panties, like those seen on the left. I have the same pair in green with pink lace and they do run a little big, so order a size down.

Weekly Picks: Fall is coming!

I'm going to try something new here. Each week, I'll share some stuff that I'm lusting after - clothes, accessories, shoes, etc. Basically I just need another excuse to stalk cute stuff online. I'm calling it "Weekly Picks" because I'm not very creative.

First, I want you to go all visit my friend Carla's blog, Product Girl. She's like me and clothes but with makeup so you know she's hardcore. She convinced me to do a series of guest posts about philosophy products and I'm glad she did because the first step towards recovery is admitting that you have a problem. I too am a product girl.

Anyway, it's getting just a little nippy here in Chicago. Maybe not nippy enough for fuzzy sweaters just yet, but I have been rockin' a super cute denim jacket that I scored for $17 at Old Navy. They're sold out of the jacket I have but the one on the left is on sale for $30. I'm not one to wear a denim jacket with a pair of jeans, that's a lot of denim for me. But I have seen lots of girls around here wearing both and, if done right, it's super cute. I prefer to wear it with a pair of olive green crop pants and a tank top. It's easy, it's cute, and it looks pretty pulled together. I also like a denim jacket over a simple knit dress.

It's not cold yet but I'm starting my hunt for cashmere early this year. I always say I'm going to treat myself to a yummy cashmere sweater but it hasn't happened yet. This is my year! This pretty sweater from Land's End is $99 and comes in 8 colors. I've got my eye on the kelly green.

Speaking of pretty, Kiyonna consistently has really pretty items, especially their new tops and dresses for early Fall. I'm especially fond of the Solid Banded Empire Tee in Peacock Teal for $48. I just love that color and the cut looks very flattering. I'd probably wear it with dark denim jeans but imagine it with brown or tweed trousers for the office. So pretty! I've never ordered from Kiyonna, so I'm interested to see if anyone leaves a comment to share their experience! They're also having a pretty sweet end of season sale.

Sometimes I shop in actual stores

Have you ever come home from a shopping trip and felt very proud of yourself, like you actually accomplished something other than a sizable dent in your checking account? That's how I feel right now.

First, the shoes. I hate buying shoes. I mean HATE HATE HATE buying shoes. I know, it's weird. I'd rather try on 15 pairs of jeans that are a size too small than ONE pair of shoes. But this doesn't stop me from looking at shoes. I love shoes! But I have wide, flat feet and shoes do not love me.

I headed over to my local DSW to see if maybe my number wiould come up and I'd get lucky. Just as I was about to give up, having tried on every pair of shoes that caught my eye and not a single pair felt right, I saw these flats by Dollhouse. They're a tiny bit snug but they'll definitely stretch with a little breaking in and frankly, that's good enough for me. I can't find them online anywhere but I'm guessing they retail for about $40, I got them for $30. Yay shoes!

Then I headed to Marshalls, a discount department store that sells clothes, shoes, housewares, etc. I never have good luck in that store because the plus size selection is a nightmare. So I looked at clothes first, to get that freakfest out of the way and headed over to the shoes. Ok, freakfest there, too. Oh, but bags! So many bags! And you know what's great about bags? They're one size fits all! (Except when the shoulder strap is too short and that pisses me off.)

And just like the shoes, I was just about to give up when I spotted this brown corduroy Tommy Hilfiger tote. It's brown! It's corduroy! It's roomy and the shoulder strap is long but not too long! It's exactly what I've been looking for! It retails for $80 and I got it for $30!

Now you see why I'm so proud of myself.

So now I want summer to go away so I can rock my new fall accessories. Brown corduroy doesn't really say "Summer in Chicago" to me. But I'm still being patient.