What do you do when you have a back pocket full of cactus? Don't sit down! And that's exactly what I'm going to try to do. Metaphorically. So obviously being at the computer is most likely sitting down (and I know cactus should be cacti but I just like the word cactus better) but in this case I just mean I'm not going to be lazy. When I'm not blogging I'm going to get off my butt and make/do stuff to blog about. So I hope you enjoy all of my posts! You're my motivation!

Monday, April 9, 2012

Current Shoe Obsession: Wedges

Shopping Tips

Okay, so when it comes to heels I love 'em but I hardly wear 'em. When I do decide to go for added height I go for wedges. The thing is I'm so, so, so, sooo picky. Lol. Yes that picky.  Here are some rules I go by when shopping for the perfect wedge:
  1. Need the "just right height"No sky-high wedges.  To me that takes away from the effortless look. And no barely there wedges.  Unless it's basically an everyday flat sandal, I don't see the point if you're going for a youthful look.
  2. No cork. This is my personal preference but even if the overall design of the shoe is perfect and the wedge is cork, it's a deal breaker. 
  3. Minimalistic design. If the shoe has a lot of colors going on let's stay simple on the straps. If there's a lot of design detail going on, solid color or two tone (3 max with 2 colors in same color family). Stick with one or the other if you want a shoe to last you longer than a week in the ever changing world of fashion.
  4. Neutral or bold. Go for a neutral if you want a versatile shoe or go for a bold color if you want a go to shoe to pop your look.
  5. Know what you're looking for.  Think of these tips as guidelines. Figure out if you want to splurge on a lasting style or just want a great deal to spice up your shoe collection. Overall, even if you don't agree with all of my tips they should still be able to help you figure out what exactly you're looking for in a wedge. 
  6. Keep an eye out at your local Ross, Marshall's and TJMaxx! These stores are always bringing in great styles at amazing prices. You just have to be patient yet quick. Check frequently because sizes are limited once the shelves are stocked.

My Choices


Finally after a very specific search I have found some very versatile yet stylish picks.  These are all perfect for spring and summer and many of these styles can also transition into fall (think tights and maxi dress combos).  Keep in mind most of these do come in other colors so click the description links to find out more info. I've selected them ranging from $25 to less than a $100 because I know we all have our budgets. Plus getting a good deal just feels good, right?! So, I'll let you free now.. Have fun shopping! :)


















Two-Tone Espadrille Wedge $28.40 <<Wow practically identical! >> ELLE Two-Tone Espadrille Sale $29.99


Sunday, April 8, 2012

Easter Sunday Easter Funday

Hi! I hope everyone's Easter has been great! This holiday for my family always means going to church, getting together, eating everything we had to give up for lent and cute decorations.  But for me there's one more thing. I like to think of Easter as the real first day of spring and I never turn down the chance to put together a cute outfit for that.  I am so glad that this year we had some great weather. The past couple years have been very windy and pretty much too cold for me to feel comfortable in a dress but luckily, this year's weather was a perfect 70 degrees. :) Plus, the entire outfit was super affordable and each piece can easily be worn separately different ways! Yay for versatility! :D

I hope this outfit serves as some inspiration for your own future spring outfits and I can't wait to start seeing what everyone else comes up with :)




1. Denim Jacket: Ross $13.99 - purchased this past week
2. Dress: Ross $19.99 (belt included) - purchased this past week
3. Shoes: Ross $29.99 (purchased last year for my graduation but here are some similar ones I've been wanting myself. Keep in mind you can use a coupon to drop the price a bit more.)




1. Jewelry: (bracelet and ring) Forever21
2. Nail polish: Sinful Colors in Boogie Nights $1.99 (find at Target or Rite Aid)


This is my baby Suede. He's my personal everyday Easter Bunny. And yes he stays this small forever. So cute :)

Eyeliner I'm wearing is from Kohl's (FLIRT! Look of Love Eye Pencil in 15 Pool Party).

❀HAPPY EASTER EVERYONE!!!❀


♥ Shanae & Suede



Sunday, April 1, 2012

Bits & Pieces

Hi everyone! Hope you are enjoying your Sunday. Mine has been nice and relaxing so far. I just finished having my favorite for dinner (salmon) and some chocolate covered strawberries after. Mmm. It's always nice to have a good meal with the family and even though we're all really disappointed about not winning the lotto this week, (we were seriously could have won last week if I just replayed my ticket..sickening) it's days like this that remind me of how fortunate we already are.  I'll figure out another way to buy everyone a new house and pay off our loans. That's going to be lots and lots of hard work and dedication but I know it's in our future. 

For now I'm still shopping on a budget and as always I will be happy to show how to look good on a budget :) So here's a few outfits I put together using new buys and previous purchases. 

Lunch Date


  1. Black Hi-Low Dress (Forever21 - Current yellow tag deal $13)
  2. Black Low Top Chucks (Kohl's -$45)
  3. Chevron Scarf (F21 - $9.80)
  4. White Purse (Hopechest Thriftstore - $3)
  5. Sunglasses (Clothes Avenue $5.99)
  6. Earrings (UO - Sale)

Casual Day




  1. Heart Cardigan (TJ Maxx - $12.99)
  2. Black Quilted Purse (garage sale - $1)
  3. Magenta Tank Top (Target - $8)
  4. Jean Shorts (F21 - Similar ones on sale here)
  5. Jewelry (F21)

 Sightseeing


  1. Olive Shorts (F21 - On sale here! 
  2. Coral Belt ( TJ Maxx - Steve Madden set of 2 $12.99)
  3. White T-shirt (F21 - Similar one here
  4. Printed Scarf (H&M - no longer available)
  5. Turquoise Camera Bag (Dollar Tree!)
  6. Sunglasses (F21 - $5.80)
  7. Black Low Top Chucks (Kohl's - $45)

Spring/ Summer Occasion

  1. Printed Sundress ( TJ Maxx - $16.99)
  2. Cognac Wedge Sandles ( Brand: City Classified - found on sale $12.99 and a store closing down)
  3. Gold Necklace (Charlotte Russe - Sale items)
  4. Gold Hoops (F21 - $2.80)
  5. Sunglasses (Maurices -$9)