You know how sometimes you need a weekend –  a low-key, catch up and get your act together weekend? That’s what this weekend was for me. Last week, I wrapped up a big project for a client – we threw a big grand opening party for the new Aloft hotel in Downtown Louisville and its bar, Corner (check out some pics here). The party was carnival/vintage circus themed so we had fire-eaters and jugglers, skee-ball and pinball games, popcorn and candy – and lots of crazy cocktails. There were even puppies since the hotel is dog-friendly. Such a fun night but happy that it’s behind me now. Time to catch up on all the stuff I put to the side while nailing down all those details.

The party was one of those calendar touchstones, the ones you countdown to and know that once you make it through, you’re in the clear for a little bit. Now that it’s over, I feel like I can start getting ready for the holidays and all the good stuff – parties (that other people throw), delicious good and gifts galore – that go along with them. One thing I’m also trying to do is keep my holiday looks a little simpler. Last year I feel like I splurged on a lot of holiday-themed outfits but didn’t get enough use out of them so this year I’m trying to add little touches to otherwise simple and classic looks.

Which is what you’re getting for this month’s Bloggers Who Budget round-up – this all black look with some holiday touches. I’m guessing you’ve got a lot of these items already in your closet so this is something you can easily throw together if you’re having one of those “I have nothing to wear” moments before a holiday night out.

If you’re looking to add a few of those key holiday pieces, we teamed up Lyst this month to show how you can use the site to keep track of all your wish list items. Even better, Lyst will let you know when they go on sale so you can hold out JUST long enough (that’s my go-t0). Check out mine and then go make your own (you can send it to your husband/mom/boyfriend/dad/bestie with all your gift picks).

Sharing My Sole |Lou What Wear | Let It Be Beautiful | Here&Now | Pearls & Twirls | Stylin in St. Louis | Living in Color Style | The Pumpkin Spot | The Style LettersBanana Republic Black Drapey T-Shirt | J.Crew Highrise Lookout Black Jeans | J.Crew Everly Heels | Gap Plaid Scarf (old, similar here) | Black & White Coat (old, similar here)

How ’bout this sweet ride Hayley and I spotted while taking pics?
Photos by Hayley Grant.