Rocksbox Review Vol. 002!

Rocksbox Review Vol. 2

This is my second Rocksbox, and I could hardly wait to open it once I saw the package lying on my doorstep. Within seconds I was busting the package open with a pair of scissors - sounds a little dramatic, I know.

For a recap, Rocksbox is a new subscription box company where you pay a $19/month fee to borrow unlimited designer jewelry. You'll receive three items at a time, and with the enclosed prepaid envelope, you can send your items back at any time and you'll promptly receive a new package with three different items. You can wear and enjoy items up to the 60 day deadline, and if you want to keep any of the items, you can purchase them at the discounted member price.

It's really exciting not knowing exactly what's inside and knowing that I'm about to unleash some trendy, designer jewels.

My box contained:

• CC Skye Resort Cuff in Green Ostrich (retail price $150)
• Urban Gem Pave Crescent Necklace in Gold (retail price $65)
• Dara Ettinger Cynthia Double Druzy Earrings in Lunar (retail price $180)

In my style survey I completed, I stated that I prefer statement pieces that are modern, glam, edgy and a bit feminine. I think they did a great job catering to the type of jewelry I'd like to wear. I actually love all three items I received.

If you follow me on Instagram, you might know about my newfound love for CC Skye jewelry so I was really excited to find the cuff in my box. Forest green is actually one of my favorite colors, so I can't wait to wear it. I recently purchased a CC Skye Kenzie Lock Cuff Bracelet, which is very similar, so I won't be purchasing this item, but I will enjoy wearing it over the course of the month.

I'm loving the dainty rhinestone bar necklaces that are popular right now, and given this piece isn't too expensive, I think it will be staying with me. But, I'll wear it and see if I can part with it or not.

The earrings are absolutely gorgeous and I may have a hard time giving these back as well. It has peaked my interest in Dara Ettinger jewelry - if you have a minute, I urge you to check some of her things out. They are just so pretty and unique to look at.

Again, I'm super happy with this box, and I've been searching the hashtag #rocksbox on Instagram almost daily and have been loving what others have been receiving as well.

It's definitely a subscription box that I'm going to stay subscribed to. And for the records, I like much better than Jewelmint, which in my opinion is going straight downhill (more about that later).

My First Rocksbox - First Impressions, Review, Photos and Discount Code!

My First Rocksbox

Rocksbox is a brand spanking new membership-based jewelry styling service. I know, another membership site, but Rocksbox is a bit different from the rest. As many other membership sites, you start out by taking a style quiz (or style profile) and based on your selections, a stylist will handpick items for you that should fit your own personal style.

In your Rocksbox, you will receive designer jewelry - (3) items to be exact to trial for up to 60 days. So unfortunately, all of the goodies aren't yours to keep permanently, but if you are interested in purchasing any items you received, you can with a 20% off member discount. What's really cool is that if you don't like your items, you don't have to wait for the month to be over. Just send the items back in the enclosed padded envelope and you'll be sent an alternative package. The amount of items for you to try each month is unlimited, and you will only be charged the one-time monthly fee of $19.

I wasn't sure what to think about borrowing jewelry, but once I received my box I quickly changed my mind.

Here's what I found in my little box:

• CC Skye Enamel Pave Dome Ring ($195 retail price)
• Viento Tooth Pave Necklace ($120 retail price)
• Gamine Sarah Dagger Charm Earrings ($59 retail price) 

My Winter 2012 Zara Haul!

Every year after Christmas Zara has an incredible sale on a big majority of their stock, and it's pretty much my shopping highlight of the year. I've been waiting for months for this sale to get a hold of some of the items I've been eyeballing throughout 2012, and I'm pretty happy with what I got.

Some items sell out quickly in the Zara sale, so I usually don't hesitate purchasing items that seem to be a good deal, as I figure that If I don't like the way they look in person, I can always bring them to my local Zara store within 30 days for a refund. In fact, I actually purchased another bag that I didn't like at all in person, and I'll be returning it soon.

This haul is purely accessories, as I didn't find any items of clothing I really liked. I did get a couple of t-shirts, but I've been wearing them so I didn't include them in this haul.

Well, without further ado, here's my haul!

Neiman Marcus for Target 70% Off.

Maybe you knew, maybe you didn't, but starting in the month of December, Neiman Marcus collaborated with Target and put out a collection of 50 different holiday gifts by 25 top designers on the Target shelves.

I thought it was a really cool collaboration, but I personally, was left feeling a little underwhelmed by the collection when I first viewed it online, so I never ended up checking it out in stores.

A few days ago while shopping at Target I stumbled upon the collection, and was really surprised to see the amount of stock left - everything was 70% off, and there was so much of everything left. I quickly grabbed a cart expecting to get a lot of stuff, but I saw threads hanging from a lot of the clothes and the trinkets looked cheaply made - many of which were really scratched (or broken) from being handled. I ended up getting two things though that I found by Marc Jacobs, because I love him, and I thought they were a pretty good deal.

Marc Jacobs Rose Gold Pouch - reg. $69.99, sale $20.99

This pouch doesn't serve much of a purpose.. I thought about using it as a casual clutch, but since there is no wristlet to hold onto, it'd probably make a better makeup or coupon bag. I think it's cute though, and I love the rose gold metallic coloring. It's also a nice firm leather.

Marc Jacobs Scarf - reg. $69.99, sale $20.99

I'm a huge scarf fanatic, so this scarf was pretty much mandatory. It's really fragile though, so be aware of that. It can easily snag.

Both items are still available on the Target and Neiman Marcus website, as well as many other items.

Did you end up getting anything? I was going to also get the Derek Lam Slippers, but my Mom thought they were hideous, so I ended up putting them back. haha!

Jewelmint Classic Cinema Bracelet Review!

Jewelmint Classic Cinema Bracelet

Jewelmint Classic Cinema Bracelet is a new spin on the Cinema Americano Bracelet. It's the same design, but for July, the new version was released in silver.

The bracelet is a mixture of curb and cable links with two textured links that give this bracelet a bit of style. The bracelet measures 7 1/2".

I love the gaudy, chunky chain trend, so when I saw this bracelet in my July showroom, I thought it'd be a perfect everyday piece. You may have noticed that I skipped June, because I really didn't see anything I liked. But I actually liked a few items this month, and I ended up deciding on one that I thought I could get the most use out of/the most practical.

Needless to say, I received it in the mail today and wasn't too satisfied with it. Had I saw the bracelet in person, I would have chosen something else.

The weight of the piece is nice - it's not heavy, but it's not ultra-lightweight. It's well-made, and the links are attached very sturdy. The clasp is also very sturdy.

It's not a shiny silver, but it's not grungy/oxidized . It looks a lot like dull, stainless steel.

Wearing the Classic Cinema Bracelet mixed with other bracelets (H&M)

Jewelmint Cinema Americano Bracelet

Photo Credit: Luuux

Jewelmint Persephone Pendant Review with Lots of Photos!

Jewelmint Persephone Pendant

Alright, Jewelmint time of the month y'all!

I wasn't too crazy about the February selection of Jewelmint jewelry. I was hoping for cuter items in spirit of Valentine's Day (even though I'm 23, I still love anything heart shaped). None of the items were really of my taste. I suppose that's better for my wallet, though!

There was one item that struck my interest, and that is the Persephone Pendant. I'm kind of a sucker for little trinkets, mini bottles - anything miniature, really, so this perfume bottle pendant was totally my taste. Although the shape of the bottle kind of resembles a flask, and I'm hoping I won't be mistaken for an alcoholic.

Wrapped around the pendant is an adorable flower design (daisies?) which is perfectly suited for Spring. The cap of the bottle has a little white stone (plastic), which is a nice little touch of detail. The silver coloring is oxidized like many of Jewelmint's pieces to give off an aged/vintage appearance. The chain is 30" in length, and lays right below my chest.

Jewelmint Persephone Pendant

Zara Haul! (plus a small rant)

Hey Everyone!

The weekend is here already - I can't believe where the time goes. I've been super busy lately, as February is always a busy month! There's George's birthday (the big 30!!! woohoo!), Valentine's Day and our Anniversary (6 years!) all very close together. So, I have lots of planning to do, with very little time!

I've had several e-mails already for guest posting, and haven't had the chance to get back to them yet. But, I will get back to any unanswered e-mails by Monday.

In other news, I wanted to mention that I think it's official that I'm boycotting purchasing Essie polishes, unless I come across a ridiculously unique shade. For my Valentine's Day themed nails yesterday, I already have chips on every finger. It's one of those polishes where you'll look down at your hands randomly and find that the polish completely peeled off a nail. My mom used the same polish and the same thing happened to her. I mean, that can happen with any polish, but every Essie polish I have is either too thin (streaks galore) or too thick and gunky (like I left it in my car in 90 degree heat). I think I'm going to stick with OPI from now on.

Anyways, onto my haul!

Zara had an amazing sale for January, and I literally went nuts. Everything was an incredible deal, but I wish I spotted the sale earlier so I could have caught some extra goodies!

I purchased three pairs of shoes; one pair of knee-high boots, one pair of ankle boots and one pair of peep-toe heels.

I'm in crazy love with the ankle boots. The leather is so soft, and they just look so classy. They had them in black as well, but I was too late, and they all sold out!

I also purchased two bags that I've been wanting all winter. They were reduced to $39.99 each, and they're both real leather! 

The leopard print bag is huge and really structured. I think I'll be using as a briefcase, rather than a handbag. I've seen it on several fashion bloggers and I think it's such a chic accessory.

READ MORE!

Jewelmint Silver Swan Bracelet Review + 70% OFF your Jewelmint Purchase!

Jewelmint Silver Swan Bracelet

I boarded the Jewelmint bandwagon back in September, and although I'm not obsessed, I have found a piece here and there that I liked. I've posted about Jewelmint a couple of times before (Ever Frost Ring and Here To Eternity Set) showing you my monthly selection. I skipped October, but for the month of November I chose The Silver Swan Bracelet.

I was interested in The Golden Goose Bracelet for a while, which is the same exact bracelet in gold, but I ended up passing on it in the long run. But, when I saw that they launched a silver edition, I figured I could get much more use out of it since I've been wearing mostly silver as of lately.

The Golden Goose Bracelet, 2nd from the left. (Photo Credit)

I love fashion jewelry with a bit of an edge, and to add to my spike addiction, these so-called "diamond shaped castings" look a lot like spikes. There are seven castings in total, with one of them being covering in shiny crystals. I think the one casting with the crystals is what really makes this piece unique, inviting and it also adds a touch of femininity to an edgy piece of jewelry.

I heart Betsey Johnson Accessories.

Betsey Johnson has been one of my favorite brands for accessories, ever since I was introduced to the brand back in 2006, while working at a higher-end department store.

Her style is very brash, over-the-top and definitely one-of-a-kind. I love the bows, hearts, flowers, leopard print, poofs, peplums, sequins, glitter and more!

One thing I love about Betsey Johnson is that it's a brand that's widely available, and can be found at many of my local discounted stores, such as Nordstrom Rack, Marshalls, TJMaxx, Loehman's, etc, for a fraction of the retail price. I always love raiding the racks for hot pink tags. ;)

Here are a couple cold weather accessories I picked up this Winter..

CONTINUE READING!

Recent Swag. (Jeffrey Campbell, Betsey Johnson, F21 & More)

Hey Everyone!

I thought it would be fun to post a haul of some accessories I've acquired in the past couple of months. It's all kind of random, but I love when other bloggers have posts like these ;)

I was hoping to link several of the items back to the websites, but every single Forever 21 item I purchased isn't listed on the website. I'm guessing a big majority of accessories became sold out during their recent 30% off sale. So, I apologize in advance for that!

READ MORE FOR ADDITIONAL PHOTOS...

Made Her Think Horizons Necklace. Familiar, No?

So, I was a little compelled to share this with you all. It's no surprise by now that Forever 21 knocks off designs from designer brands and sells the product for a tiny fraction of the price. You can Google "Forever 21 Knockoffs" or check the following article for details (http://jezebel.com/5742029/forever-21s-bizarre-knockoff-empire)

I remember when I use to wear a knock off Chanel bag back in high school and Chanel logo earrings and thought they were the coolest thing around. Then the fakes began to multiply and multiply and I got to the point where I was embarrassed to wear them anymore. In some cases, it does cheapen the real thing. But, I'm not bankrolling over here either to be able to purchase really high end items. In fact, I've been eyeballing replica YSL Arty Rings and Alexander Wang Rocco Bags for the past few weeks with the full intention of purchasing them. 

What's your take on replica items? I'm curious to know!

Alexis linked me to an awesome NYC Designer site and something looked very familiar...

MADE HER THINK

http://www.madeherthink.com/shop/horizons-necklace/

FOREVER 21
http://www.forever21.com/product.asp?catalog_name=FOREVER21&category_name=acc_necklace&product_id=1000026214

Haha! I can't believe how similar they are - right down to the chain. Anyhow, Made Her Think is a totally awesome site which I kinda wish I didn't know about.. LOL I've got my eyes on a couple of things..

Love this ring. Too cute. The link is here.

Also, you can check out Alexis' latest post for her recent Made Her Think earring purchase! (click here)

Happy Shopping!

I need this necklace now.

Photo Credit: Dulce Candy

Photo Credit: Dulce Candy

Dulce Candy was wearing this really cute gold rhinestone spike/cone necklace in a few of her past OOTD's and I've been dying to know where she got it from. I asked around for a while, and came up with nothing. Finally, she posted another OOTD today wearing the same necklace. Turns out that it's from Forever 21! I was totally surprised to hear that as I figured it was a designer brand.

Apparently it comes in silver, gold and a charcoal/pewter metal? and retails for $14.80. It isn't available online, but I've heard from a couple of sources that they spotted it recently at their local Forever 21 stores.

I'll be on the lookout for it and I'm crossing my fingers that I'll find it! :)

Have you noticed that I've been completely obsessed with spikes lately? I have no idea why.

UPDATE: Thanks so much for those of you who alerted me that the necklace is now available online! How Ironic? lol Anyway, the link is HERE.

Nordstrom: Window Shopping Trendy Accessories

In my free time I like to browse various sites for the latest trends. I usually try to browse more affordable sites (Forever 21, H&M, Aldo, Etc) because if I see something I really like, it will drive me crazy that I can't afford it haha!! Bad, I know.

I just created a Wishlist on the Nordstrom site as a fun way to keep track of the items that caught my eye. It gives me a little inspiration and ideas of what styles, etc to look out for when I'm out shopping.

Here are all of the items I added! (PIC HEAVY)

Elizabeth and James 'Scallop' Diamond Pavé Ring $250.00

Ariella Collection Slanted Rectangular Pavé Ring (Rose Gold) $78.00

Michael Kors Multi Chain Necklace $350.00

Michael Kors Double Wrap Bracelet (Sand Python) $95.00

Marcia Moran Oval Agate Drusy Oversized Ring $235.00

Cara Couture Short Crystal Statement Necklace (Silver/Black Diamond) $168.00

MARC BY MARC JACOBS 'Last Dance' Multi Layer Necklace $148.00

MARC BY MARC JACOBS 'Last Dance' Linear Thorn Earrings $58.00

Nordstrom Small Pyramid Stud Earrings (Gold) $18.00

Kendra Scott 'Danielle' Oval Earrings (Black Onyx) $58.00

Spring Street Design Group Spike & Chain Necklace $78.00

Spring Street Design Group Spike & Mixed Chain Bracelet (Chocolate) $48.00

St. John Collection Faux Pearl & Glass Charm Necklace $395.00

Betsey Johnson 'Lady Luck' Charm Toggle Bracelet $125.00

Givenchy 'Vanguard' Small Faux Pearl Bracelet (Brown) $48.00

Belle Noel 'Honey Hexagon' Wide Cuff (Palladium) $78.00

Judith Jack 'Contrasts' Stud Earrings $85.00

Spring Street Design Group Adjustable Crystal Ring $28.00

MARC BY MARC JACOBS Logo Disc Stud Earrings $38.00

Cara Accessories Crystal Bead & Cord Bracelets $23.90

Sequin 'Cleopatra' Fringe Collar Necklace $38.90

See anything you like?

A few new rings from F21!

It's really no secret by now that I love stalking the Forever 21 website for the new arrivals. Forever 21 is probably my favorite place for inexpensive accessories. I've been recently wanting to expand my ring collection, so I've been really keeping my eyes out for cute rings. 

Here are the few I ordered..

Interlocking Circles Ring $4.80

Sparkling Love Ring $3.80

Skeleton Key Ring $3.80

Pyramid Stud Ring $3.80

Stretchy Knuckle Ring $3.80 (no longer available on website)

It's not always the easiest thing to place an order online if you haven't seen the item in person. If I was shopping in-store, I probably wouldn't have purchased the "Sparkling Love Ring" or "Stretchy Knuckle Ring". The "Love" ring has already tarnished (haven't even worn it yet) and has a greenish tinge to it. I'm 100% sure my finger will turn green if I wear it once. It also looks a little cheap. The reason I purchased the knuckle ring was because I don't own a gold one, and it was a good price. Although I do like it, it looks extremely cheap and is on the road of tarnishing.

The two rings I'm the happiest with are the "Skeleton Key Ring" and the "Pyramid Stud Ring". I think the pyramid ring is so cute and so simple and great for every day.

READ MORE FOR A FEW ADDITIONAL PHOTOS!

JewelMint: A Run-down, First Impressions & My First Jewel Mint Piece - The Here to Eternity Set!

 There are several companies and products that have flourished because of the chatter on beauty blogs all over the world. For one, Sigma Brushes. If I didn't have a beauty blog, I'd most likely have no idea what Sigma was. Look how popular it is now. When you're a blogger, you get introduced into so many brands and products that you may not have heard of, been interested prior, or even need. But with the endless blog entries and YouTube videos with crisp images of visually pleasing products and trends - you'll get sucked in sooner or later.

Personally, a guilty pleasure of mine is reading or watching hauls. I'm not sure why, but it's exciting to see photos of products I don't have or products that are pretty. It's fun to see what people buy and it gives me ideas (as well as a never ending wish list) of things to purchase one day. It's all up to you whether to restrain yourself from buying things on impulse. Could this possibly be the beauty blogging era of makeup hoarders? I think it would make a nice TV series. Shoot, I'd tune in to see someones ridiculous collection of eyeshadow and blush. :) I'm getting a little off topic now, but It's like going in Mrs. Field's just to browse. Who does that!? (Okay, I'm guilty of doing it when I'm on a diet to somehow to visually "feed" my mind without actually eating it, but that's besides the point) Anyways. I'm sure most of you by now have heard of Jewel Mint.

I don't really remember how long ago it was when I first heard of Jewel Mint, but I know I first heard of it through a YouTube video of someone showing the pieces they purchased from that particular month. I wasn't really interested at the time, but since then, Jewel Mint has become so much more popular. One of my absolute favorite Youtuber's hollyannaeree has done several videos regarding Jewel Mint, and I have to admit, seeing the awesome things she got, made me want to subscribe.

READ MORE FOR ADDITIONAL INFO + MY REVIEW!

Obsession: Rose Gold Watches! Get one for less! I paid $20!

1) Michael Kors Bel Aire Chronograph Watch $250

2) Michael Kors Crystal Bezel Chronograph Watch $250

3) Nixon 'The 42-20 Chrono' Watch $450

4) Michael Kors Rock Top Rose Gold Bracelet Watch $295

5) Michael Kors 'Large Layton' Chronograph Watch $250

6) Glam Rock So Be Mood Rose Gold Bracelet Watch $825

7) TOYWATCH Mini Heavy Metal Bracelet Watch $225

8) Fossil Rose Gold Chronograph Bracelet Watch $135

Have you jumped on the Rose Gold train yet? This past Spring, Rose Gold became a new obsession in the fashion world. From handbags to shoes and accessories, it's been the total rage. With the abundance of this pale copper colored metal, many watches have been launched in this girly hue. Just about every watch brand has a few Rose Gold options, but you can find the biggest selection of styles from Michael Kors. The average retail for a Michael Kors watch is $250. Some styles are a little more expensive, and a select few may be a pinch less. Out of all of the department store brands, the least expensive one I've come across is from Fossil. Number 8 in the above photo is a very cute option for half the price of a Kors at $135.

Now, if that's a lot to invest in for you right now, you have other options. When I'm low on funds, eBay is my best friend.

If you search eBay, sorting the search results by the lowest price first, you'll see a lot of results for Rose Gold Watches from Hong Kong. I have ordered jewelry in the past from Hong Kong, but I dread the lengthy shipping time, especially with something I'm really looking forward to receiving. Yes, I'm very impatient.

READ MORE TO CONTINUE READING & FOR PHOTOS OF THE WATCH I PURCHASED!

Small Forever 21 Accessory Haul!

Filigree Knuckle Ring $5.80

Pearlescent Heart Earrings $3.80

Oval Doily Earrings (Gold/Cream) $1.50

Pearlescent Stud Earrings (Cream, Set of 3) $1.50

Spike & Chain Bracelet (Silver) $5.80

Arrowhead Earrings $3.80

Glimmer Leaf Pendant Necklace $4.80

All of the items I purchased are still available on the Forever 21 website. Each item listed above is linked to the product page.

I'm loving everything I purchased, and my only regret is purchasing the leaf necklace. I only own a few necklaces, and I'm really liking the layering trend, so I thought it would look cute layered with some other simple gold necklaces. I usually avoid buying necklaces from Forever 21, especially if they are gold because after 1-2 uses they change color and I won't wear them after that. I took a chance and didn't even wear the necklace yet, and the gold already changed. It was bright yellow gold when I purchased it and now it's a dull silver-gold. Oh well. You can't win them all, right?

My favorite things are the knuckle ring, which is surprisingly comfortable. It has a hinge, so both ends move slightly when you bend your finger for a more comfortable fit. I've been wearing it almost every day since I got it.

This is my other favorite purchase. Another item I've been wearing every day. I usually pair it with the arrowhead earrings. Really cute and edgy. I love that it's a loose fit, so even if I'm wearing long sleeves, the spikes peek through.

Yay, it's already the weekend! Have any plans?

My Summer Essentials! (Skin, Makeup, Hair and Accessories)

Hey Everyone!

Despite it's halfway through the summer, I've had a few requests to do a summer essentials post. I've read several summer must-haves and summer essentials posts and I absolutely love reading them! I had trouble narrowing down my list, so I decided I'd break it up into sections and post it all.

(Just about every item is click-able, for more information on the product)

Skin & Haircare Essentials: Pumice (for feet), Leave-in Conditioner, Shine Serum, Dry Shampoo, Body Moisturizer, Facial Self Tanner, Body Self Tanner, Body Makeup, Heavy-duty Deodorant, BHA/Salicylic Acid for face, Body Illuminizer, Sun Screen, Body Brush.  

Mr. Pumice Pumi Bar

 I normally don't have dry feet, but once summer hits, my heels become extremely dry. To keep my feet soft during sandal-wearing months, I always use a Pumice Bar in the shower to rid my feet of dry, excess skin.

Aussie 3 Minute Miracle Deep Conditioner

During the summer, my hair craves moisture. To keep my hair from drying out, I like using a leave in conditioner a few days a week. I recently purchased this Aussie one, and it's great and affordable!

CHI Silk Infusion

 I love using Silk Infusion before I blow dry or heat style my hair. It really makes my hair more manageable, soft and shiny. It doesn't weigh my hair down or make it greasy. Shiny hair is definitely a must have for any season.

T3 Orlando Pita Refresh Dry Shampoo (dark tone)

Dry Shampoo is an awesome product to have handy during the summer for quick hair touch ups. It's an instant refresher and will soak up any excess oil in your hair. Turning your head upside down and working it into the roots can also give you quick volume. This particular dry shampoo is my favorite of all time. I've tried every one on the market, and this one lasts the longest without clogging, doesn't give a white/powdery cast to the hair, doesn't cause flakes or build-up, etc. I just checked the Sephora website, and I'm a little horrified right now that this product is no longer available, and is possibly discontinued.

Stridex Maximum Strength Pads

 These little pads are a great way to keep your skin clean. Whenever I feel like my face has gotten oily, I make sure to clean my face with a Stridex pad. The salicylic acid will deep clean your pores and prevent future breakouts. Not only are these important in the summer time when my skin is a little more oily, but they are important all year round!

HEMPZ Original Herbal Body Moisturizer

 A good moisturizer is vital to keep your skin looking radiant and feeling silky. I really like using Hempz body lotion. It makes my skin feel incredibly smooth and it smells amazing - sort of like bananas? :)

READ MORE TO CONTINUE READING MY LIST!

New shoes: Forever 21/Pink Duchess Leatherette Wedge Sandals!

Pink Duchess Erin-2/Forever 21 Leatherette Wedge Sandals

I usually don't like to purchase synthetic shoes because they are bound to give my feet blisters, but I typically have pretty good luck with shoes at Forever 21. I was looking for sandals that were trendy, not completely flat and could be worn every day.

Granted, I haven't raided all of the shoe departments at my local shopping centers, but I have done a bit of browsing online with no real luck. So, I was a little excited when I came across these sandals on the Forever 21 website last week. They have a short wedge, so they aren't completely flat, the style is trendy and they are casual, so I can wear them with any outfit - every day. Also, the price was really good at $19.80. It's really annoying when I find cute shoes I like at Forever 21 and they are close to $40 - Sorry, not paying that much for cheap quality shoes when I purchase high end brands at Marshalls for the same price. So with all of that said, I placed an order!

I was hoping they'd still be available on the website, but they must have just sold out of them in the last 48 hours. Several times, Forever 21 will re-stock items that sold out quickly, so if you're interested in them, keep your eyes out on the website! I did go to the mall Monday, and they had several pairs in stock, so you may be able to find them in-store.

My shoe size is an 8.5 - very true to size. An 8 is usually too small, and a 9 is usually too large. I do have wide feet (thanks Dad), so certain "M" styles don't fit correctly. Since Forever 21 doesn't stock half sizes, I purchased a size 8. They do (thankfully) fit my feet perfectly and comfortably. I wore them all day yesterday, and I did lots of walking and my feet didn't hurt in the least. They are pretty good quality for the low price.

DETAILS

These particular shoes aren't actually manufactured by Forever 21, but by the brand Pink Duchess, a wholesale shoe brand. The Forever 21 item number for these are: 78967669017 and are called the Leatherette Wedge Sandals. The cost of them is $19.80. The actual style name on the Pink Duchess shoe box is Erin-2, but I couldn't find any information on them from the brand directly.

Where do you usually have the best luck finding shoes that are affordable and trendy?