"A carefree, sexy spirit." -Ralph Lauren

On occasion, I get an excited feeling from within as I walk from my garage down the driveway to the mailbox. Sometimes this infinitely giddy disposition is due to a letter from a faraway friend I know I will receive. Sometimes it is when I know a check with my name on it will be arriving. Sometimes it is awaiting a Hallmark card around a holiday or birthday from a relative. Yet, more frequently I go absolutely crazy when either Anthropologie's or Free People's catalog arrives through the mail.

The catalogs are in no way any comparison to the store's themselves, but every time I receive a catalog in the mail, I know I will find something I love. The two pictures I posted are from the newest catalogs. Each brand specializes in clothing, shoes, and accessories that are unique, creative, and imaginative. Whenever I purchase something from either brand, I know I will treasure it, and wear it until it breaks, if possible.

There is something so carefree and at the same time positively structured in the layout of the catalog. Each page looks like a work of art. There have been many catalogs torn apart with an exacto knife that I have saved for inspiration. I am convinced that someday my clippings of the clothing from Anthropologie and Free People will be of some use.

I highly suggest that you check out my two favorite catalog's sites: http://www.freepeople.com/ and http://www.anthropologie.com/ . There you will be dazzled with chic dresses, discreet but practical handbags, and jewelry that appears to be a priceless antique, but for a fraction of the cost.

I love the carefree spirit of the clothing. The effortless ability to pull off an outfit beautifully without it looking like it took two hours to get ready. Hopefully I can spread my giddiness on to you. In the meantime, I'll be waiting for the mail.