Latley

I hope everyone had a great weekend! I had a lot of fun but spent all day in bed yesterday (clearly I had a little too much fun). It is definitely starting to feel like Fall around here in Chicago and I am l-o-v-i-n-g it. In other news, I am attempting a little "spending freeze" for the month of October. I've made it 1 whole day but I am seriously doubting my will power with all of these fall sales going on. I may need to unsubscribe from every email I get until November 1. Also, I finally got the new iphone5 which means I am no longer left out of the instagram club. My user name is the same as my twitter: ashleybona. So follow long if you'd like! 

Oktoberfest with some of my college roomies & the boyfriend.

Concert outfit with my favorite new skinny's & Frye boots.

Mini pumpkin doughnuts a la here.

View from the Zack Brown Band concert- such a good show!

Bordeaux, Ox Blood, Maroon, etc.

Until this season I did not realize there were about 50 names for this color. Call it whatever you like, but I am dying for a pair of maroon suede heels this fall. In my personal opinion, I consider it a neutral- it makes a statement but is dark enough that you can really wear it with anything (although I don't recommend wearing them with your favorite pair of sweat pants). There are a ton of options- all with a little something different to offer. I am loving the Jessica Simpson ones especially and the price point doesn't hurt either.What fall shoe trends are you loving?

clockwise: one two three four

Fall Thoughts

image available for purchase here

I typically have a hard time following through with things. Not serious things. But things that I plan to do some day- a "bucket list" of sorts. I am really trying to be better about it (especially since I do not get much satisfaction out of my current job position). I've decided I need to find joy in the things outside of work instead, so i figured a fall to-do list is the perfect way to try and stay accountable. 

1. Head to a festival to celebrate Oktoberfest with my family. 

2. Try (3) new recipes from Pinterest (especially one including pumpkins). 

3. Become more conscious of my eating habits (eat out less and eat more veggies!). 

4. Head to a pumpkin farm with the boyfriend- although I may have to drag him kicking & screaming.

5. Have a fall inspired get together with my girlfriends.

6. Carve pumpkins with my little brother and sister. 

7. Build my fall wardrobe staples without spending my life savings. Quality over quantity is key here.

8. Write down something I'm thankful for each week instead of dwelling on the not-so-good.

What are you excited about for Fall?

Cheap Thrills {under $50}

Blouse / Bag / Necklace / Flats (similar) / Pants

I am seriously trying to control my spending for these upcoming months. But, there is something about fall that makes me want to buy everything in sight. Here a few things I'm loving that won't break the bank in case you are like me and have absolutely no self control when it comes to a cute pair of shoes (or blouse, or necklace, etc.) How do you keep yourself on a budget? Any tips? Would love to hear them!

Fall Trend- The LBD

Living in the Midwest, I have always been more of a jeans girl. It's just easier- especially when half the year it's below 50 degrees and there is snow on the ground. That being said, this past summer I really tried to focus on buying a few dresses- primarily due to their ease. Now that Fall is just around the corner, I am on the hunt for a LBD (can you believe I do not own one currently? Nuts.) and I plan to purchase one with a little detail to make it unique. Whether it be a little leather detailing or a peter pan collar, I hope to find something that is timeless but still has a little something special to it. Any LBD's you're loving lately? Please share!

So long, Summer

via

Happy Friday! Even though I'm sure it will stay fairly hot outside for a few more weeks, it definitely feels like the end of summer. No more half-day Friday's for me.. sad. As much as I love fall (and fall clothes) I could use about 3 more months of 90 degrees because as soon as it's Fall here in Chicago.. well, it might as well snow. 

This weekend I'm watching my little brother and sister while my parents are in Sonoma, CA drinking wine and enjoying many delicious looking cheese trays. They've already sent me about 500 photos to make me jealous. I'm totally expecting a case of wine when they return. 

But besides babysitting, I'll be: 

- Checking out Toby Keith's new bar outside of Chicago with the boy and a few friends. 

- Continuing my 15K training with a 2 mile run (this may seem like a short distance but with a slight hangover from tonight I'm sure it will feel like 10 miles). 

-Watching my first Badger game of the season- with a bloody mary in hand. 

- Attending a baby shower for my cousin and spending QT with the fam. 

- Sneaking a few minutes by the pool to enjoy some end of summer sunshine.

What are you up to this weekend?

Zara Moment

There is something about Fall clothing that I absolutely love. I find it much easier to shop than Spring or Summer clothing. I promised myself I wouldn't post about Fall until after Labor Day but I lack decision making skills and need your help. I am in love with everything at Zara currently - like every other month. And I've narrowed it down to 2 pieces that can be worn now so I feel a little better. Do I go with the Striped Peplum Jacket or Leather Top with Lace Sleeves? And also, if you had to choose a smoking flat which would you choose? I am leaning towards the Studded Slipper but can't decide on a color. Help!