Weekly Shopping Update: 8.16.2013

The new Ann Taylor collection could spell trouble for those on shoestring shopping budgets and/or those with overflowing closets (I am guilty on both counts). With its muted but classic palette, practical-with-a-twist designs, and singular headliners, this collection will undoubtedly garner new fans for the retailer.

My favorite items from the new collection? All things that bear this leopard/flower print which is heavily inspired by RED Valentino’s fall 2012 collection (the original: pants, jacket, coat, clutch, jacket, and dress).

Floral Leopard Jacquard Topper

Would it be overkill if I got all three pieces?

Maven Leopard Jacquard Pencil Skirt | Maven Leopard Jacquard Ankle Pants

Other items in this print include the Floral Leopard Jacquard Tote and Floral Leopard Jacquard Clutch.

I even like the shoes (Vince Camuto is now ghost-designing all of Ann Taylor’s shoes)! The bags aren’t half bad and I wouldn’t mind getting a few of those statement jewelry pieces either.

Top: 1 | 2
Bottom: 1 | 2 | 3

Also on my wishlist: Front Pleat Skirt, Midnight Stripe Peplum Jacket, Society Paisley Statement Necklace, and Society Paisley Ring Set.
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The popularity of J. Crew’s Beaded Rose Necklace (now on sale) has spawned a gaggle of clones and while its imitators have received favorable reviews, I still have a soft spot for the original.

Take an additional 30% off sale items with code SHOP30.

Beaded Rose Necklace | White

Other fun jewelry on sale include the Crystal Floral Statement Necklace, Crystal Circle Necklace, Piled Stones Bracelet, and Tiered Stone Necklace.

Is this Pearl Blossom Dress not the perfect rehearsal dinner dress for a bride-to-be?

Pearl Blossom Dress

The Double-Breasted Schoolboy Blazer, now on sale and still available in small sizes, is a sound alternative to the Classic Schoolboy Blazer and the New Schoolboy Blazer (both of which are back to full price).

J. Crew Double-Breasted Schoolboy Blazer

And some shoes to go with your brand new blazer:

Mona Printed Pumps | Collection Bow Pumps in Ratti Regatta Print | Collection Bow Pumps in Stripe

I picked up the Origami Bow Dress in Stretch Wool for a friend with my J. Crew rewards card but didn’t do much damage otherwise (have to save money for Ann Taylor).

The Liberty Toothpick Jean in Tresco Floral that I wore in this post is now on further sale ($70 + 30% off).
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New arrivals at the J. Crew factory store are 30% off (prices as marked).

My favorite purchase from J. Crew last year, the Tippi Sweater in Swiss Dot (worn here), has been re-released for fall. Buy the Charley Sweater in Pom-pom Dot here.

Charley Sweater in Pom-Pom Dot

Other cute new arrivals to consider: Intarsia Charley Sweater in Anchor, Printed Pleated Skirt, Emery Flats, Peter Pan Collar Tee, and Stripe-Sleeve Tee.
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And two striking Burberry coats to salivate over.

Wool Twill Peplum Coat | Dark Racing Green

Is this not the perfect green?

Bonded Wool Military Caban | Dark Racing Green

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Forever 21 must have discovered a batch of leftover merchandise from last winter because a few styles that I thought were sold out have reappeared on the website. Take, for example, the Faux Leather Wedge Booties that I got earlier this year on super sale and absolutely loved.

The booties are light and comfortable to wear (note: socks are necessary because of the coarse lining). I last wore mine here.

Also available as a wedged boot here.

Faux Leather Wedge Booties

I also picked up the following: Cozy Varsity Jacket, Rolled Sleeve Cropped Tee, and Everyday Slouchy Knit Top to make the $50 free shipping minimum.
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Take 35% off full-priced items at Banana Republic with code BRSHOPNOW. This offer can be combined with the new subscriber discount (25% off one purchase) and the “up to 40% off” offer, making some new arrivals very affordable.

My picks: Striped Peplum Sweater, Striped Ponte V-Neck Dress, Piped Tweed Jacket, Camden-Fit Bold Print Ankle Pant, Rugby Stripe Top, Red Crepe Blazer, Rugby-stripe Ponte Dress, and Oxford Shirt.

Maisie Wedge

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Get an extra 25% off sale items at Shoebox New York with code EXTRA25. This peplum dress (still available in a host of sizes) is $29.99 before additional discounts.