St Johns Town Center™

It's cold. You're full. There's a feeling of turkey-induced sleepiness coursing through your body, what do you want to do? Curl up in a pair of insanely comfortable sweatpants and veg out while you mentally prepare your fitness attack to combat the entire pumpkin pie you just ate.

These are my five favorite sweatpants from stores around St Johns Town Center. All of these provide different types of comfort and style, but all cover the basis when it comes to seeking a false sense of "I didn't eat that much" until you hit the gym or pavement again! 

There's no secret when it comes to sweatpants at Victoria's Secret. Victoria's Secret is a veteran at casual chic lounge wear. Available in tons of colors and fits, you'll find not one, but several, pairs to take home! I love the Flare Pant, the wide opening at the bottom keeps my feet warm and the more fitted waistband makes me feel a little less like I just ate my way though the next year and a half.

Victoria's Secret Flare Pant in Deep Grey, $39.50

Sometimes, however, cotton just isn't where it's at. For those days I like Bebe's Classic Logo Velour Pant. (Grab the matching jacket too for a complete look!) These are great for warmer Thanksgivings - like we often have here in Jacksonville, Florida -  because they aren't as thermal or warming as cotton. Velour stays much cooler while still providing ample comfort. 

Bebe Classic Long Velour Pant in black, $44.00

I love skinny jeans! I probably own more of skinny jeans than anything else, therefore, I was smitten when I saw these skinny sweats from Aerie. The skinny sweatpant is a mixture of high school gym sweats with sexy, skinny silhouette. I would pair these with a loose tee and jean jacket. Even better, they have pockets!

Aerie Skinny Sweatpant in royal navy, $34.95

Lululemon has you covered for your post-Thanksgiving recovery. Their Still Pant is loose enough to count as a pair of sweatpants, with material that allows for some major stretch for your yoga sequence. No forward bends for your full stomach? No problem! These would be great to wear while catching up on the Macy's Day Parade on DVR. 

Lululemon Still Pant in soot light, $98.00

I also love a pair of sweatpants that comes in a shorter length. Capri length sweatpants are great for bumming around the house when it's warm. These sweatpants by Pink Lotus are available at Athleta. They're made of ultra soft material in a winter-cool color. Perfect for Thanksgiving detox! 

Pink Lotus at Athelta in oatmeal heather, $78.00

Looking for more Altheta wear? Check out  Athleta from Head to Toe!

If there's one thing I love about the Holidays, its the "need" to buy something new to wear for dinners, get togethers and nights out! With Thanksgiving rapidly approaching, I have my sights set on dresses for Turkey Day, all found at the St. Johns Town Center! I'm not entirely sure what I'm angling for this year, but I know it has to meet my criteria: an autumn color, texture and loose structure. Normally I'm a fan of black, but I'm desiring something more fun and peppy for Thanksgiving. Although I've worn and raved about patterns in the past, this year I'm looking for a solid with texture. Of course, when it comes to a day like Thanksgiving, I'm not looking for anything form-fitting. Leave me some eating room! 

Fit and flare is a nice choice for room to "grow", and Express has an amazing selection! I LOVE their Metallic Jacquard Fit and Flare Dress in Tourmaline. It has tiny waves of textured, metallic weaving for an amazing holiday appeal. The blue jewel tone is warm and inviting. The overall shape is flattering when both hungry and full. Here in Florida it can frequently be 80 degrees on Thanksgiving, and this dress has a lovely racerback design that looks beautiful sans jacket, but if you're chilly - this dress would look adorable with a heather grey cardigan! 

?Express Metallic Jacquard Fit and Flare Dress, $128

Never one to disappoint in the dress department, J.Crew nails it with their Collection Francoise Lace Dress available in both pinot noir and black. I am smitten over the lacy design of this dress. Although it has longer sleeves and a higher neck, this dress is anything but frumpy. A flattering length, hitting just below the knees, makes this dress perfect and appropriate for any age! With a keyhole back, you get a secretly sexy look. The 3/4 sleeves are sheer for a sophisticated elegance that is still fun. I, of course, love the pinot noir (a burgundy-red color), but the black is appropriate as well. 

J.Crew Collection Francoise Lace Dress, pinot noir, $495

I think I've just found my next love in Anthropologie's Sugar Swirl Shift Dress. This dress is simply amazing. It has a navy base with a white overlay that makes the dress more of a smoky light blue color. The dress also boasts cutout fleur designs in a beautiful texture. The gorgeous design of the dress is anything but simple. Try this dress! You won't want to miss it!

Anthropologie's Sugar Swirl Shift, $228

For something a little more casual and flowy, I like Gap's Split-neck Sleeveless Dress in navy. What it lacks in texture, it makes up for in flow. The smooth, fluid weave is light and easy to wear. The back hem is slightly longer, which helps to elongate the legs without being too scandalous for a family function. The v-neck collar is banded and it is belted at the waist for a defined look that doesn't sacrifice comfort. It also has pockets! I can't pass up a dress with pockets! Although it also comes in hot magenta, for Thanksgiving this year I'd stick with the navy.

Gap Split Neck Sleeveless Dress, navy, $69.95

Not digging my denial of prints? Check out this post for some awesome fall print ideas!  Chic Fall Prints

Thanksgiving is fast approaching and I couldn't be more ecstatic! I love the food and the warmth, the time with family and the memories. The coming of Thanksgiving can only mean one thing; the subsequent arrival of BLACK FRIDAY. Oh yes. The quintessential shopping day that officially kicks off Christmas buying all across America. After years of Black Friday shopping and seasons of working Black Friday retail, I've come to realize there are three types of Black Friday shoppers who fit into three very distinct style categories. No matter what category you fall into, I have the perfect outfit planned for you. All of these finds can be purchased at the St Johns Town Center in Jacksonville, Florida!

This shopper is all about the deals and quick shopping. They want to maximize their time in each store to get exactly what is on their list for the best price. These people are who Black Friday was truly made for. They have shopping down to a science. For that reason, clothing is all about efficiency and comfort. Pair some yoga pants with layers. Wee morning shopping will be much cooler than when the afternoon kicks in and you'll want to be prepared. Pair a t-shirt with a hoodie that can be quickly tied around the waist. For accessories, try a scarf for added temperature control and use a crossbody handbag that hugs close to the body. Shoes: athletic sneakers. 

Pant - lululemon Wunder Under Pant, $82.00

Tank - lululemon Cool Racerback in blue moon, $42.00

Hoodie - Athleta Shearling Team Hoodie in grey heather, $118.00

Bag - Coach Legacy Swingpack in black leather, $148.00

Scarf - Express Studded Skull Square Scarf, $34.90

Shoes - Dick's Sporting Goods adidas Women's Energy Boosting Running Shoe, $149.99

This shopper knows how to combine business with pleasure and hit the mall for some casual deals. If they find something good, if not that's ok too. Clothing is relaxed, but fashionable. Some skinny jeans with a flowy blouse, sunglasses and a larger satchel are perfect! Shoes: fun loafers. 

Shirt - J. Crew Silk Pocket Blouse in byzantine blue, $138.00

Jean - Urban Outfitters BDG High-Rise Seamed Jean, $58.00

Eyewear - Solstice Balenciaga 0127/S black, $189.00

Bag - BCBGMAXAZRIA Harper Satchel in tan, $398.00

Shoes - Steve Madden Croquetl in leopard, $63.98

To be honest, 99 percent of the time I fall into this category. I find Black Friday shopping incredibly stressful. Most of the time, I end up buying, not what is on sale, but what is previewing for the upcoming season! Therefore, I consider myself a for-show shopper: I want to enjoy the craziness, wear something cute in the crowds and shop for random things I don't need, but can't live without. For this reason, I usually wear whatever outfit I am crushing on at the moment. Right now, that's leather leggings with a flowy knit top, some cute flats and a wide brim winter hat! 

Pant - BCBGMAXAZRIA Kalin Motorcycle Legging, $158.00

Sweater - Express Open Stitch Asymmetrical Hem Sweater in warm stone, $59.90

Hat - Anthropologie Geo-Trim Rancher, $42.00

Shoes - Aldo Mithell in Bordeaux 

One of my favorite things about cooler temperatures are leather jackets. The perfect combination of ultimate sophistication, cool girl chic and contemporary luxury - a leather jacket is not only a fall and winter staple, but also a worthwhile investment to use for years to come. Here is a run down of some of my favorite options available at stores all over St. Johns Town Center!

I have a weak spot for the classic, black leather jacket. BCBGMAXAZRIA has a beautiful moto jacket currently available. The Misa Blocked Leather Moto Jacket has all the stylings that I die for in a good leather jacket - edge, sophistication and feminine flair. I adore quilting in a leather jacket and this one has just enough to stay stylish without being overpowering. Made of lamb leather, it's ultra soft (although not vegan friendly.. ).

BCBGMAXAZRIA Misa Blocked Leather Moto Jacket, $598

Another moto style jacket, Coach's Leather Racer Jacket, evokes the retro feel with its refreshing light camel color. It is buttery soft and buttery toned. This is a great jacket for use with your dark denim. Although a little more casual than the previous jacket, it still has an important place in your closet.

Coach Leather Racer Jacket in Camel, $798

True Religion has a cute cropped choice with their Ox Blood Leather Jacket. A minimalistic jacket that packs big style punches, this slim fit leather piece has zipper cuff details, adjustable buckle sides and a stand color. Its ultra, ultra soft for easy movement. The cropped cut makes it perfect the Autumn season. 

True Religion Leather Jacket in Ox Blood, $498

Brooks Brothers has a great leather jacket for your man. The Leather Blouson. You'll want to hang on his arm all night long for an excuse to touch the incredibly luxurious, Italian calfskin leather. This navy jacket has a down lining, so it's something he can use in many different climates. The leather zipper pulls add a touch of rugged masculinity to the overall look. 

Brooks Brothers Leather Blouson, $2498

For a leather-free jacket, Express has a cute vegan-friendly option. The Studded Cropped (Minus The) Leather Moto Jacket is made of polyurethane. It is available in both pitch black and dark sand. The asymmetrical front zip keeps it contemporary while the studs on the wide notch collar keep it edgy. 

Express' Studded Cropped (Minus The) Leather Moto Jacket in Dark Sand, $178

For more "moto" inspiration check out, Fall Fashion Trends: Hello Moto. 

It's the Saturday after Thanksgiving, which means I am nursing my wounds from crowds, bruises from heavy shopping bags and blisters from waiting in lines and walking to the middle of nowhere where my car was parked on Black Friday. Joking of course, but kidding aside, I had a great Black Friday experience at the St Johns Town Center this year. 

However, my Black Friday purchases were erratic and spontaneous. I didn't go with any sort of plan or list - and, for me, that is the key. But, as was the case, my purchases make for an awkward article.

My first, and longest, stop was Forever 21. And I was keeping an eye out for some new winter clothes; sweaters, long sleeves, that sort of thing. Since I in Florida (with cold days few and far between) and I'm unnaturally textile fickle, I sometimes like to shop at stores with more competitive pricing for things I won't get a lot of use from. At Forever 21, I found a great black maxi (perfect with holiday sweaters during the day or glitzy Christmas sparkle at night). The Sleek M-Slit Maxi Skirt has double high slits on the sides with built in boy shorts. The material is thicker for the cooler temperatures, but still looks sleek and sexy. 

Sleek M-Slit Maxi, Forever 21, $15.95

Also from Forever 21, I picked up some very holiday-inspired sequin shorts to wear to an upcoming Christmas party. I had a hard time choosing between charcoal, black and blue, and in the end decided I would get the most use out of the charcoal color. I'm thinking of pairing an ironic Christmas sweater with them.

Shine Bright High Waisted Shorts in gunmetal, Forever 21, $17.80

I love the holiday feel at Bath & Body Works and my next purchase was somewhat silly, but fabulous nonetheless. Dressing up my car a little is always fun, so I picked up their Snowglobe Scentportable and a couple of holiday themed scent cartridges. Isn't it cute?!

Snowglobe Scentportable, Bath & Body Works, $10.50

The item that got away was a pair of amazing tall boots from Aldo that were completely out in my size! If you aren't a 9.5, head over to the St Johns Town Center and snatch a pair up! Over the knee with gold detailing, the Mecardo boot would make a great winter addition to your wardrobe! Originally $220 and on sale for $104.99, I wish I could say these made their way to my Black Friday purchases!

Mecardo boot, Aldo, $104.99

What made it into your Black Friday bag this year?!

I'm always searching for the new black. I'm looking for that quintessential color that changes seasonally and stands in for the sexy neutral in your outfit. This year, the new black is merlot! Last fall/winter, I was crazy for ox blood, it's very similar to merlot, but not the same. Merlot is closer to the purple spectrum. It's a little more feminine, less gothic-grunge. It's warm and inviting, classy and earthy; just like the wine it's named after. Best of all, its the perfect "black" for your wardrobe this season. 

Express at the St Johns Town Center has a great merlot top. Such a rich and sophisticated color looks amazing in a luxe button down. The Convertible Sleeve Portofino Shirt combines effortless chic in semi-sheer crepe. With a modernized, sexy deep V button neck, you can keep it formal with long sleeves or go casual with a rolled up option. Express ?calls this color Wild Orchid in their collection, although I see merlot tones for sure! I may have called merlot "the new black," but it looks divine with black, as well! 

Express Convertible Sleeve Portofino Shirt in Wild Orchid, $49.50 

For sweaters, Urban Outfitters has several great options in various shades of merlot. In the photo pictured below, 1 is the Kimchi Blue Open Stitch Cardigan, and probably the truest "merlot" option in the bunch. The deep purple-red shade of merlot in a lightweight, open stitch, airy design. Number 2 is almost a shade too close to red to be considered merlot, but it's close. I loved that it was paired with black in the sleeves, as I think merlot and black make a stunning companionship. The Lucca Couture Marl Sweater has an eye popping banded crew neck and sleeve detail which keeps it preppy-cool. My favorite option from Urban Outfitters is the Lucca Couture Dolman Open Front Cardigan and it just might be making a permanent spot in my wardrobe very shortly! I LOVE the dolman sleeves with their wide dropped armholes and the slouchy rounded collar just looks ready to keep me cozy and happy! 

1 Kimchi Blue Open Stitch Cardigan, dark purple, $49

2 Lucca Couture Marl Sweater, maroon, $69

3 Lucca Couture Dolmam Open Front Cardigan, dark purple, $69

In the world of accessories, BCBGMAXAZRIA has a luscious clutch in their Harlow Crocodile Clutch. Made of faux leather with a crocodile pattern, this clutch features an envelope style magnetic closure with metal accents. I love the idea of pairing a merlot statement clutch with your LBD (little black dress) this fall/winter. At at such a reasonable price, you can afford to use and abuse this bag well into New Year's! 

BCBGMAXAZRIA Harlow Crocodile Clutch, burgundy, $88

Mac Cosmetics has a rich merlot colored lipstick called Hang Up. Nothing beats the consistent color and smoothness of Mac lipstick and I know you won't be disappointed with this pick! Long wearing and creamy, this color will make any outfit glam! 

Mac Cosmetics Lipstick, Hang Up, $15

For an easy and casual way to introduce merlot into your closet, Lucky Brand has a nice option with their Sweater Back Thermal. Super casual, incredibly comfortable and easy to wear, this long sleeve shirt will keep you stylish and warm for your daytime errands! The sweater-styled back keeps it stylish. I am loving this as a casual top option this season! 

Lucky Brand Sweater Back Thermal, Potent Purple, $59.50

If there's one thing you can always count me in for, it's comfortable clothing. From sleep shorts at Aerie, hoodies from Lululemon, to sweats from Victoria's Secret, I have it all. So when Athleta opened at the St. Johns Town Center, I was thrilled to have another option for workout, lounge and yoga wear! 

When my mom and I stopped by Jacksonville's finest shopping mall, we didn't hesitate to run into Athleta and ogle at all of our top picks. These are my favorite pieces from head to toe at Athleta! 

Since I run outside daily, I am accustomed to sweating. There is nothing worse than sweat rolling into your eyes, which is why headbands are a staple in my workout wardrobe. I love the Reversible Training Headband by Smartwool - it's ultra wide to keep every hair out of your face and made of soft, warm material. It's perfect for the cooler temperatures on the horizon. My ears get so cold! Bonus: what's not to love about fun and funky colors?

Reversible Training Headband by Smartwool in Deep Sea Heather, $22.00

For the body, I love a combination of the Stardust Spinnerette Tank - which is ultra lightweight, wicking and has a built in tank, all of which are must haves for the first layer of workout wear. Wear the Elite Half Zip over the tank! It is also lightweight, but has sleeves and chest coverage for a bit more warmth. It also provides front and rear reflectivity, which is perfect when the sun sets earlier this time of year. 

Stardust Spinnerette Tank in Granite Grey, $64.00

Elite Half Zip in Black, $69.00

Since I have so many shorts for running (it is Florida, after all), I was drawn to Athleta's pants. I love to exercise in capri's so I figured they would be my best option for running. I instantly fell in love with the Sandstone Relay Capri - the striped, textured pattern coupled with the unstinkable technology made them too good to pass up! Unstinkable technology is Athleta's polygiene permanent odor control technology that is featured in the material. Wear it more, wash it less! It has a mid-rise waist, which I love for running, and also has front and back reflective detailing. Behind the knees are some ventilation mesh which makes these not only cute, but incredibly functional. 

Sandstone Relay Capri in Ink Blot, $74.00

I love socks. I could write entire posts solely about socks (pun intended). There was no surprise in my utter glee over Athleta's large selection of foot lovin'. Staying true to the running theme, my top pick was the Elite Light Cushion No Show Tab Sock by Feetures. They have plush padding at the heel and toe, which is almost paramount for outdoor runners. They also feature wicking material to keep your feet super dry. The higher thread count of these socks make them lightweight without sacrificing softness. 

Elite Light Cushion No Show Tab Sock by Feetures, $15.00

You know I just love a good bonus! I decided I could not neglect tech any longer! From running apps, to music apps, to a quick text on your walk breaks - your phone is an important part of your run! I thought the Armpod by Amphipod was too cute to pass up. Designed to fit your iPhone (or similarly sized phones), the Armpod is a chic little way to strap your phone securely to your arm. My favorite thing about it was that your phone actually zips into it, versus other armbands which leave you awkwardly shoving your phone into an ill-fitting slot. Give this baby a whirl! 

Armpod by Amphipod in Flora, $35.00

It is no secret that I have a passion for the 1970's (ahem... Funkadelic: Bringing the 1970s to 2013!), but I've yet to include any outrageous flared jeans to my wardrobe. For the longest time, flared denim reminded me of the tragic country phase I went through in my youth. I stayed far away from the wide leg jeans for years. Then I stumbled across this street style photo. 

I LOVE EVERYTHING ABOUT IT. Wow! Doesn't she look polished, yet relaxed? The outfit is a little retro, but still modern. This denim on denim look with the feminine bag just seems perfect for fall. The silhouette of the flared leg is so flattering - it adds shape to the leg and elongates the body. Her chambray shirt really ties it all together as a modern twist on the classic 70s outfit. Now on to recreating it . . . 

Since the jeans are the crux of the look, let's find those first. My first stop when I need an exact replica of a pair jeans is Buckle at the St Johns Town Center. They have a myriad of choices in almost every length and material. So I wasn't surprised when a quick look online netted the exact pair I was looking for: the 7 for all mankind Jiselle Flare Stretch Jean. It's a warm, medium rinse wash with minimal fading. I also love the 21" opening at the bottom. It's a very polished jean. 

Buckle's 7 for all mankind Jiselle Stretch Flare Jean, $99.97

I am not wildly in love with chambray, but for this outfit, it works. And it's a good all-purpose staple to keep in your wardrobe. Our street style inspiration is wearing a very light chambray shirt. I found the perfect dupe at American Eagle. With a slight western edge, the 1970's feel really comes across well. It also looks so soft. Don't forget to tuck it in! 

American Eagle Denim Safari Shirt, $39.00

Her handbag is what makes this outfit more modern for me, so it's important to get something similar. What ties this together is the strong, neutral accessories paired with the blue of the denim. I found a great neutral structured bag at Coach that works perfectly. Coach's Madison Sadie Flap Satchel in Light Gold/Camel Multicolor is my top pick! It is also a great bag for all of your autumn looks. The greatest thing about this shade is how well it will pair with black and brown outfits. I love versatility. 

Coach Madison Sadie Flap Satchel, $498.00

Her accessories are pretty easy to nail - and again, very versatile staples you should own. A nice wide brown belt, I like Lucky's Basic Leather Belt, and some classic Ray-Ban Aviators from Sunglass Hut complete the look. Pretty simple but amazing, right?! 

Ray Ban Aviators from Sunglass Hut, $144.95

Basic Leather Belt from Lucky Brand, $37.12

Pun intended! One of the standout pieces for this outfit are the shoes. I really think for flared denim to work, it needs a pair of wedges. Flats look frumpy, boots look too western-themed and heels look awkward. With flared jeans, wedges are where it's at! I like Steve Madden's Barcley Cognac wedges best. The color is warm for fall and the peep toe gives a flirty edge.

Steve Madden Barcley Cognac Wedges, $89.95

You dress up your tree, your roof, yourself, your house and your dinner table for the holidays, but why not dress up your man? While I don't suggest forcing itchy-but-oh-so-cute sweaters on him, there's nothing wrong with a little holiday cheer in the t-shirt department! Straight from the St. Johns Town Center to you, I bring you the Men's Holiday Tee Shirt Round-Up! These are my favorites from some of the stores around my favorite Jacksonville, Florida mall! I've broken the categories down by store. 

For movie buffs - I recommend coercing him into expressing the yuletide with an ironic "A Christmas Story" tee or a utterly ridiculously awesome Griswold tee. Both are silly enough that he won't be able to say no. He can dress it up with slacks and a contradicting vest or down with shorts or jeans. 

Christmas Vacation Tee, $24

A Christmas Story Tee, $24

For engineers - For the guy who likes order, structure and everything in its place, I suggest Urban Outfitters' Original Snowman Tee. It has everything going for it in the way of pattern, form and line. With no outward "Christmas" appeal, it's perfect for a man of any religion!

Original Snowman Tee, $24

For the goofball - Ok, so your man is silly, goofy and down for anything humorous. Target's Peanuts Christmas Graphic Tee is perfect! It's a throwback to his childhood, but still relevant (Throwback Thursday anyone?). The soft heather navy color will match perfectly with his jeans or khakis! 

Peanuts Christmas Tee, $12.99

For the grump - Some people get into the spirit late, and for those types we have the Grinch Christmas Graphic tee. In a noncommittal green, he'll look less holiday dolled up and more iconic. Which, hopefully, will entice him into the season a bit more!

Grinch Christmas Graphic, $12.99

For the tech enthusiast - For the coding, html loving, Google obsessed tech junkie in your life, we have the Ugly Christmas Bell Graphic Tee with 8-bit loveliness. Perfectly curved candy canes? No way. We like them pieced together in Nintendo 64 style. One part 80s video game throwback with two parts Chirstmas cheer, your geek will love this!

Ugly Christmas Bell Graphic Tee, $5

For the indie music lover: Does your man prefer fidelity and vinyl to your iPod? Does he loathe the sell outs on the radio? If this is the case, he will love the album-esque look of these lonely winter trees in Old Navy's Outdoors Graphic Tee. Just picture "Black Keys" written across this snowy scene and you'll see what I mean. Very indie and very album art. He'll love it through winter 2014!

Outdoors Graphic Tee, $12.94

For the vintage lover - If your main squeeze loves the vintage look, he might like Old Navy's Dr. Seuss The Grinch Tee. On a grey shirt, this design has the weathered appeal of a shirt from his childhood. Tagless and ultra soft, he'll be rocking the vintage-esque vibe all season! 

Dr. Seuss The Grinch Graphic Tee, $14.94

For the emo - Not one glimmer of Christmas, Hanukkah or Kwanzaa and no reference to anything remotely season relevant makes this shirt perfect for the emo boy. The icy blue bandana design makes it winter inspired. Call it a compromise between your desire for holiday cheer and his disdain for everything possible. 

AE Photo Real T-Shirt, $14.96