the slashie award...

...as in diaper bag "slash" purse. Kelli requested a large bag that can be used for either, preferably in yellow, and on the less-expensive side. Here are a few finds for ya, and anyone else who needs a casual carry-all.Suzy Q tote, Alloy, $30.Pedley Hobo, Alloy, $30.Mexicali Tote, Alloy, $25.Printed Scarf bag, Old Navy, $20.

There was a Kate Spade bag about a month ago that I really liked, but I cannot seem to find a picture of it now. Must've sold out. Anyway, this one from Gap is similar, and probably $300 less...Color-trimmed tote, Gap, $20.I have to do a little product endorsement for the bag that I use...Storksak's Gigi bag. It is awesome. It's nice looking, my husband Brandon doesn't mind carrying it, it holds and organizes everything, and the adjustable straps let me hang it on my stroller or my shoulder. Storksak Gigi Chocolate Diaper Bag, BlissLiving.com, $198. The French company Murval often has stylish and affordable bags. Find this safari one at Twin Totes.com for $35, including monogram, if you like. Check out more Murval merch online at GiveSimple...like this Murval diaper bag for $50.(Above) This Patent Tote by Forever 21, $33, reminds me of (below) this Marc by Marc Jacobs bag, Dr Q Huge Tote, zappos.com, $502.Hope that helps! Anyone else have any favorite bags to share?

rugby stripes

I remember raiding my dad's closet and shopping in the boys' department for rugby shirts in the sixth grade. I think rugby shirts were kind of uncool for a while, but my closet is full of rugby stripe inspired t-shirts. (Believe it or not, I was even on a rugby team for a bit in college!) Lately, I've noticed a resurgence of that classic, preppy-ish look, much to my delight... just can't get enough of that thick, juicy stripe.

You too?Taffeta Rugby Skirt, JCrew, $175. Dress 'em up...Rugby striped terry tunic, Gap, $44.50. ...or down. This one looks so comfortable.

This would be so cute over a little Shade shirt. Love the colors. Rugby Babydoll Cami, Forever 21, $9.90.Rugby Hooded Cardigan, Forever 21, $30. A cute spring sweater.Xhilaration Square-Neck Stripe Baby-doll top, Target, $20.Rugby Stripe Tankini, Urban Outfitters, $48. Pretty swimsuit.
Nike Three Quarter Sleeve Stripe Hoodie, Nordstrom, $40. The wide bands of white are so flattering.Short sleeve rugby stripe shirt, Free People, $98. Hmmmm...green or yellow?

Cardigans, part II

Thanks for the comments and keep them coming! I love feedback, it makes me feel like I'm not just talking to myself!
Next up: short sleeved cardigans, like this one. Lattice-print Short-sleeve Cardigan, JCrew, $88.Issac Mizrahi for Target Sparkle Cardigan, Target, $28.A cardigan can be worn buttoned up like a shirt, (obviously). I like this stripey one from Juicy Couture, Nordstrom, $148.Eileen Fisher Linen Cardigan, Nordstrom, $158.
You may have seen these drapey cardigans around. I think I'd have to get used to not having buttons or a belt to cinch in my waist, but it looks so comfortable.Here's another one by Lauren Conrad (the girl from the Hills). Sorta like a super-sexy yoga instructor. Katherine wrap, Lauren Conrad, $140.

More cardi's...Rain-or-Shine Cardigan, Anthropologie, $220. Machine wash cotton. Online-only.Sailboat print cardigan by Sparrow, Anthropologie, $98. Super soft and surprisingly versatile. Only available in stores.Theory Vance Cashmere Cardigan, shopbop.com, $335. Digging this monochromatic look.
Citronella coat, JCrew, $198. Wow.

And lastly...transform old and baggy into fresh and fitted with this tutorial from Sweet Sassafras.

for the love of cardigans, part I

Cardigans are one of my favorite clothing items ever. Soft and comfortable, versatile and classic...the "sexy cardi" never goes out of style...
I've heard people claim they hate cardigans, so I've put together a compilation of cardi's. There's sure to be one to please.

Simple and solid...JCrew's timeless style icon--the Jackie cardigan (after Jackie O). I have this exact one in three colors. The shell can be worn under the cardigan as a twinset, or over another shirt as a vest. Super comfortable stretchy cotton. Machine washable and comes in 10 gorgeous colors. Cardigan, $62. Shell, $42.Here's a similar lower cost version. Cherokee Crewneck Cardigan, Target, $18.

Too preppy for you? Try the revamped longer Grandpa cardigan...Splendid Long Supima and Modal Cardigan, Nordstrom, $72. Supima is super-soft American Pima cotton. Lux Basic Long Cardigan, Urban Outfitters, $48. Cotton and acrylic. Machine wash.Merino Cardigan, BodenUSA, $74. Merino wool is heavenly, the next best thing to cashmere. Handwash or dry clean.

Or, make it memorable with exquisite details.
Avery Ruffle Cardigan, JCrew, $85. Whisper-weight cotton and silk blend. Machine wash.
Cotton-cashmere Primrose Cardigan, JCrew, $98. Appliquéd cotton lawn flowers. Lightweight. Dry clean.Seedling Hoodie, Anthropologie, $88. "Moth's knit hoodie will keep you toasty while searching for new blossoms. Four bead-covered buttons, ensconced by silk flowers on the shawl collar, shield against the spring breeze. Two front pockets. Cotton. Hand wash."

Check back tomorrow for Cardigans, part II.

How do you feel about cardigans? (Please share!)

style profile: Mallory

Another friend who always dresses well is Mallory. She grew up in Bountiful, Utah, and now lives in Naperville, Illinois. She loves dancing and is majoring in Communications and Public Relations.
Here are the key elements to Mallory's style...

Three words to describe my taste...trendy, classic, simple.
My three favorite brands/stores are...Forever 21, H & M, Banana Republic.
The best season for clothing is summer...bright colors, flip flops, and you can carry a lightweight jacket to add to the outfit, especially in the evening.
I never leave home without...my purse and cute shoes.
I've got a great style secret: I've gotten some of my favorite items at Banana Republic on sale... on huge sale. They have great sales!
I get inspiration for my personal style from all over; I take a bit from everything to make my own style.
My worst fashion-victim moment: I don't think I really have one, but I probably would say peasant tops...I looked awful in them.

Thanks Mallory!

As most of you know, H&M is an amazing source for up-to-the-minute fashion trends that are affordable. The only downside is that they are unavailable online. Click here to find a store location near you. It's usually worth a trip!
Check out these stunning looks from their Spring 2008 collection...

High waisted, wide leg, denim trousers, H&M, $24.50.

Yellow colorblock top, H&M, $12.50.Pink blouse, H&M, $24.90.

prints charming

Feelin' foxy in flora and fauna...Tatami-Heli Belt by Mixko, greener grass design, $48. Made from off-cuts of Japanese tatami tape. Environmentally friendly. Relaxed Floral Pullover, Free People, $148. I love the relaxed silhouette. Very chill. Eleanor Horse Print Skimmer, Keds, $40. Because, why not?Big Floral Dress, Lucky Brand Jeans, $78. Machine washable cotton. (This one may need an undershirt.) I'd like to wear this everywhere, all summer long...

Peacock Tee, GoJane.com, $28. Don't you love peacocks?

Garnet Hill

Julie asked me to find a versatile denim skirt just a little past the knee in length. This was a surprisingly hard request! Luckily, clothing and home design company Garnet Hill has three great-looking options... Shaped Seamed Skirt, Garnet Hill, $78. Simple and flattering.
Pleated Denim Skirt, Garnet Hill, $78. The pleats dress this one up a bit.
Eileen Fisher Stretch-Denim Skirt, Garnet Hill, $108. Straightforward and comfortable.

Garnet Hill has a great collection of other clothing, jewelry, and shoes as well. Here are some of my favorites...Printed Smocked Skirt, Garnet Hill, $98. Pretty colors.Banded Collar Shirtdress, Garnet Hill, $118. Garnet Hill Wide Leather Belt, now $28. I love this look.Banded Tunic, Garnet Hill, $88. Sophisticated. Wear it with these cute slim jeans.Garnet Hill Five-Pocket Slim Jeans, $88.Bateau-Neck Tee by Velvet, Garnet Hill, $57. I adore shirts by Velvet. They always fit perfectly and are made of the softest cotton. This one comes in other bold colors, too.

Chan Luu Champagne Diamond Trellis Necklace, Garnet Hill, $198. Beautiful.Kevia Handmade Stacking Rings, Garnet Hill, $112. I love how simple and natural these look.Cocobelle Wedge Sandal, Garnet Hill, $98. Gorgeous.