Sunglasses, leggings, top, shoes and necklace from Gordmans (under $80!) // Gucci Marmont Purse in Small 

Well, we’ve made it to hump day, and that’s something worth celebrating! This week has been an extra busy one between celebrations (it was Tom’s birthday on Monday!), big meetings at work, presentations to prep for and trying to make it through my inbox (all of my inboxes…). So once I’ve hit that hump day stride, I couldn’t be happier that the weekend is finally in sight.

I’ve been really fortunate that I’ve been able to dress down during the week days (no more pants suits for me anymore!), so I’ve been building up my casual wardrobe rather than investing in business formal-wear for work. It’s amazing how much your attitude can change when you feel comfortable and confident in what you’re wearing – and believe me, being able to wear jeans after dress pants/pants suits for a year is very, very freeing.

During the weekend I’ve been rocking comfy leggings, cozy t-shirts that are breezy in the hot Chicago summer weather, new kicks and my new Gucci purse I finally splurged on after talking about it for literally years (more on that soon!). And while I love cozy, everyday wear, I definitely don’t want to spend too much money on basics vs. investing in larger investment pieces. That’s why I love shopping at Gordmans whenever I’m back home, they have the best deals on perfect basic pieces at a fraction of the usual price – especially brand names that I love like Nike, New Balance, Gaiam, etc. When I’m back in Madison or in the suburbs I always make sure to swing by because I’ve found so many of my favorite basic pieces there – including the most magical yoga pants and these perfect, neutral New Balance kicks (for just $40!)  Okay, so let’s break down the goodies I got at Gordmans – I bought all of these for under $80, which is crazy, especially with the tennis shoes!

• New Balance Tennis Shoes ($40): The perfect neutral pair of shoes (that are so, so comfy!) these are perfect for working out or running around town doing errands on the weekend. I’ve always loved New Balance shoes for their style and comfort – and you can’t beat the $40 price tag!
• Nike Leggings ($20): Another amazing find – these leggings are super comfortable and go with just about everything. I’ve been wearing them to yoga since they’re high waisted (which always makes me feel a little better since I don’t quite have abs, ha!) and around town when it’s not too hot outside.
• Blue and White Striped Top ($8): The perfect basic t-shirt (and one that I can wear to the office under a white blazer). It’s super comfortable and I love that it’s oversized, and I can tuck it into skirts or pants for a more fitted look.
• Constellation Necklace ($4): Who says jewelry has to be expensive? This pretty, delicate necklace is perfect as an everyday piece and goes with everything.
• Sunglasses ($8): I’ve been eyeing up a pair similar to these for $400, so these dupes are perfect and actually in my price range. I don’t usually go for the oversized sunglasses look, but these are just the right size for my relatively small face shape 🙂

If you’re feeling inspired to find some affordable pieces at Gordmans in the coming weeks, you should also know that they’re having their yearly, massive anniversary event on July 21st – so make sure to stop by then at your local store! I’m going to try to make it and score a few more finds to share with you in the coming weeks.

In other news – we’re just a few days away from the weekend! I’m excited to go to Windy City Smokeout on Friday and Saturday (one of the best events on the year in Chicago!), spend some time on the beach playing volleyball on Sunday, and enjoying some time relaxing in between. Hope you’re already planning for an epic weekend too! xx

This post has been sponsored by Gordmans. Thanks for supporting the brands that keep Charmingly Styled running!