I've had my eye on Norma Kamali for Wal-Mart for some time. I was initially going to order one of anything that I liked, but I ended up spending too much when I got caught in the mania of the L.A.M.B. and Rebecca Minkoff sample sales. Many items have sold out in the larger sizes, so there haven't been too many items to tempt me, but I always check back from time to time.

Ten minutes ago was one of those times - and within moments of spotting the batwing cardigan at left, I'd whipped out my credit card and ordered it. It's like a fashion beast took over my body and I was compelled to hang it in my closet. Never mind the five other black cardigans (and DKNY Cozy) that I own - this one demanded to be in my wardrobe.

At an astoundingly low $20 plus $0.97 shipping, you can't blame me, can you?  I'm already dreaming of wearing it with wedges or over-the-knee boots and leggings. The possibilities are endless and I love how it can give a simple silhouette more volume.

Have you ever been taken over by a fashion beast & ordered something before you could thing twice? Please share in the comments below!

Smashbox Limitless Long Wear Lip Gloss

$21.00 by Smashbox at Sephora

Earlier today, the Smashbox Limitless Long Wear Lip Gloss in Endless Kiss landed on my desk. Naturally, like any good lip product obsessed lady would, I applied it immediately. In the tube, Endless Kiss appears to be a Spring-perfect melon gloss with subtle gold shimmer. On my lips, it's more of a very sheer version of the tube's initial color.

Since this is a long wearing lip gloss, it has a different texture than your typical lip product. After applying the product with the doe foot applicator, the initial slip is similar to a lip balm, creating a smooth and high-shine surface. After a bit of wear (and drinking) the formula can become sticky, but nothing unusual (comparable to a MAC Lipglass).

Bonus points and kudos to Smashbox for including SPF 15 in this formula. Our lips are often forgotten when applying sunscreen products, but like the rest of our body, they need protection too.

The Limitless Long Wear Lip Gloss SPF 15 was just released as a part of Smashbox's latest collection, In Bloom.

Late last week, my mother and I trekked to the Upper West Side to visit Polished Beauty Bar. It was one of the first days after Snowpocalypse (also known as the Blizzard of 2010) and getting anywhere was a wet, sloppy mess. Once we finally entered Polished, the bright space helped to bring a calm over the both of us. First up was the pedicure, made complete by the A++ massage chairs and superb attention to detail by the staff. It was my mom's second pedicure in her life - an experience that she didn't exactly realize was happening because she was so relaxed.

Next, we enjoyed manicures (my mother has only had a handful of these, as well). The experience was very similar to the pedicure - careful and very specific attention to detail. The photo above was taken today (January 2nd) and we received the services last Thursday, December December 29th. I've only done very minor touch-ups (mostly due to the weak & brittle nature of my own nails). The most evidence that this manicure is four days old is the minor and expected tip wear. Aside from that, my nails have remained perfect.

Unable to kick my navy habit, I chose Zoya's Indigo as my color of choice with a deep chocolate brown for my toes (I forgot to look at the shade's name). My mother went with the daring-for-her choice of Zoya's Kelly, a gorgeous purple tinted slate. Her manicure & pedicure are lasting equally as well, if not better.

What nail color are you starting off the new year with?

Polished Beauty Bar

250 W 78th Street

212.933.1830

Manicure: $12

Pedicure $30

Full menu of services

Tom Ford Nikita Cat Eye Sunglasses

$360.00 by Tom Ford at Bergdorf Goodman

I've recently developed an intense obsession with all things Tom Ford. It started with the magnificent $45 lipsticks that I still have yet to own, has trickled down into a lust for the legendary Black Orchid fragrance (also still not mine) and the desire even moved me to purchase the issue of Vogue Paris that he guest-edited (complete with bonus calendar). Tonight I found myself searching Bergdorf Goodman for "Tom Ford" and falling in love with these sunglasses.

As soon as I saw them, Madonna's "Like A Payer" began playing in my head. I love the retro shape with the tortoise pattern (although they are only currently available in black plastic). Everything Tom Ford touches brings forth a hidden sex appeal that is classic, feminine and utterly stunning.

Of course the real song that should have been playing when I saw these was Debbie Gibson's "Only In My Dreams". A girl can dream, can't she?