Fashion Forward

In the depths of dreary winter weather, I often dream of spring clothes and even start buying them. I guess I'm an optimist at heart and can't help but look forward to brighter days and warmer weather (it's either that or slit my wrists from the gloom). Luckily, the bright colors and stripes of last year are still around and on trend. Yesterday, my burgeoning fashionista daughter and I hit the mall for a little retail therapy. First up, Forever 21. Look, I know what you're thinking . . .

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Yes, I'm 39, but I can still wear some Forever 21 clothes (albeit a size up from what I usually wear because their clothes are cut so small or so poorly made or both). But for trendy, colorful pieces, I find their selection pretty spot on usually. And they have a girls section, so my daughter can grab some trendy too. Here's what we found yesterday . . . 

Essential 3/4 Sleeve Striped Tee

A little striped boatneck tee because you can never have too many of these, and some of mine are looking rather ragged after years of wear. 

3/4 Sleeve Lace Top

A little pop of yellow lace to brighten any outfit.

And somewhat inspired by this photo of Miranda Brooks in the latest Vogue . . .

Source: ifthelampshadefits.blogspot.com via My Interior Life on Pinterest

I picked up this eyelet embroidered top to wear with jeans . . . 

Eyelet Embroidered Top

I also got another blue on blue striped blouse, but I can't seem to find it online and don't feel like trying it on to snap a photo. But trust me, it will look great with white jeans whenever white jean weather finally arrives!

My daughter couldn't pass up the stripes either with this great little tunic . . . 

Rugby Stripe Tunic

She also got some minty leggings to go underneath, but of course, those aren't online either. 

And speaking of minty tones, we also hit up Old Navy for some budget finds including two sparkly tanks in stripes (duh) and solid (because a girl can't wear stripes every day . . . or can she?):

Women's Sequin-Front Jersey Tank

Although the sun's not shining here today, these pieces have put me in a better mood. Plus, my cold seems to be improving day by day, so I'm very thankful for that and for all your kind wishes for my speedy recovery . . . they seem to have worked. Happy Monday!