Classic Summer Fashions

When summer arrives and temperatures reach into the 90’s  and 100’s, my ideal summer wardrobe is light, airy, crisp and clean.  

There’s nothing more classic for a summer wardrobe than primary colors mixed with white and khaki.  And, turquoise is the perfect accent color to make any summer fashion look stand out.  

When it comes to building a classic summer wardrobe, here’s all you’ll need:

 

 

Summer Wardrobe Essentials:

Cotton Eyelet Dress–Nordstrom $138
Turquoise or turq-inspired jewelry–Necklace–Kate Spade $78, Earrings–Stella and Dot $34
Canvas Beach Tote–Striped Canvas Tote–Lands’ End  $23.99
Classic Espadrille–EspadrillesEtc.
Cotton Slip Dress–Nordstrom $82
Wide Brim Straw Hat–Forever 21 $12.80
Twill Bermuda Shorts–Nordstrom $28.90
Flirty Swimsuit–Juicy Couture–Nordstrom $168
Stylish Sunglasses–Nordstrom $58
Canvas Plaid  Bucket Hat–Land’s End  $12.99
Classic Canvas Sneaker–Lands’ End $12.99
Nautical Stripe Boatneck Tee–Lands’ End  $29.50
Wedge Espadrille Sandal–Lands’ End  $39.99
Print Maxi Dress— Chico’s  $149

 

What’s your favorite summer outfit?

Fashion Formula: Floral Prints

Does Fashion lead home decor or does Home Decor lead fashion? Whatever the case, both worlds are enormously affected and influenced by the other. 

If you’ve been in the stores lately, you’re seeing a slew of floral prints…typical for spring, but there seems to be a stronger statement this season

Florals can be found on dresses, blouses, footwear, accessories, & on pillows, chairs, bedding and tabletop items.

They’re pretty, they’re feminine, they’re fashionable and they’re fabulous!

 

Group one photos:  Dolce and Gabana Dress via Instyle.com, Coastal Living, Shoes via Zappos
Group two photos:  Pottery Barn Teen chandelier, Christian Dior Dress via Instyle.com, Necklace via DivineRose–Etsy, Southern Living
Group three photos:  Ring via Zaisy–Etsy, Stripe chair photo–unknown, XOXO Dress via Instyle.com, Tote via Ikatbags–Etsy, Flowers via Carolyn Roehm
Group four photos:  Floral Chair photos–Lily Pulitzer via Tumblr, Hair Pins via RiRiFisch–Etsy, Floral Pillows via RubyStella–Etsy
Group five photos:  Shoes via Zappos, Wristlet via Noonew–Etsy, Ottoman photo via seasonforallathome

DO YOU HAVE A SIGNATURE STYLE?

About a week ago, I had lunch with a friend and one of the topics of conversation was about developing a personal style.

 

Since I have a fashion background, Saleema asked me how I’ve developed my personal style, and what exactly defines ones personal style.  The conversation got me thinking and I wanted to share my insights with you.

  

1.  How do I define my personal style and am I happy with it?

I truly believe that my personal style began developing itself at a very young age.  I was one of those girls that loved to create unique outfits, play dress up with my friends (boys and girls) and rummaged through my mom’s closet (which I still do to this day).  I was voted best dressed in high school and majored in fashion in college–fashion was and is in my blood.

Way back when, I identified elements of fashion that spoke to me, made me feel pretty, comfortable and stylish.  Those same elements define my style today and give me that same sense of self-confidence and personal identity it did when I was 5.

  •   Classic with an artistic flair–I follow fashion trends very closely but know that classic styles, silhouettes and details work best for me.  I love combining a pair of jeans with a stylish blazer or long sweater coat. Or, dressing up a pair of black pants with a bright cardigan or menswear inspired shirt.

 

  • Color–Bright, bold colors are one of my signature touches.  I know that color, versus neutrals  look good on me and more importantly bold colors make me feel good, which is reflected in how I carry myself and interact with other.    A great way to identify a fashion statement that works for you is to listen to what other have to say.  It never fails that when I wear red, coral, kelly green or canary yellow, I get compliments from others. 

  

  • Jewelry–My outfit does not feel complete without jewelry.  For me, jewelry is the icing on the cake and is the way that I bring a look together.  I use jewelry to make a statement and gravitate towards classic silver pieces, big earrings, bold necklaces and diamonds (it’s my birthstone after all).  If you see me without any jewelry on, chances are I’m not feeling well.

  

  • Handbags–A girl can never have too many.  As with jewelry, a handbag to me completes an outfit.  While handbags are functional, I don’t look at them that way.  To me, a handbag it a true style statement and should compliment an outfit first and be a storage vehicle second.  On those occasions when I am wearing black or neutrals, I carry a handbag with color or shimmer to convey my personality.

 

2.  What are the components of great personal style?

    To me,  great personal style is all about knowing yourself.    

  • Knowing who you are–knowing what you like and don’t like is key to defining your personal style.  It’s not about trying to look like someone else, but about creating your own style, one that allows you to look your best,  always.

*   Knowing and loving your body–Whenever I’m at the mall I see loads of people wearing things that just aren’t right for them.  Wearing clothes that don’t fit or flatter your body is the quickest way to downgrade your personal style.  Take a day at the mall and try on lots of clothes.  Recognize what cuts and styles enhance your body and make you feel good.  These are the elements that will help you create your personal style.

  •  Knowing how to play up your best attributes–It’s true, shorter people (me) really should not wear cropped pants, and those of us with a well endowed chest should gravitate towards scoop necks and v-necks because they are more flattering on our neckline.  As you try on clothes, recognize which styles make you look taller, enhance your arms or legs and camouflage the areas you don’t like.  Clothes that look good on you, do make you feel good.

 

  •  Creating a signature look–Audrey, Michelle, Hillary, Jackie and my design idol  Sarah Richardson all have signature looks. It could be a classic white shirt, a pattern or a brand that helps you define your personal style.  Pick and item or two, and make it apart of fashion identity.

 

3.  How does one go about creating a personal style for themselves?

  • Find a role model–Look around… TV, magazines, friends and identify people whose fashion style you admire.  Your goal is not to copy them, but be inspired by their personal style.

 

  • Shop and Try on–If you ever watch What Not To Wear on tv, Clinton and Staci spend countless hours with the client trying things on.  This really is the best way to find and understand what fashions look best on you.  If you’re afraid of going it alone, most of the major department stores have a personal shopper department where someone will work with you, to create your wardrobe.

 

  • Mix high-end with low-end–When it comes to shopping, I am not a brand snob.  I buy items because they work for me, not because of the label or the price.  I love to invest in classic pieces and then round out my wardrobe with inexpensive stylish finds.  Some of my favorite pieces have come from Old Navy, TJ Maxx, Koh’s and the Nordstrom sale rack.  Your really dont’ have to invest a lot of money to create a great wardrobe. 

 

  • Invest in basics–Just about every fashion personality out there has a list of wardrobe basics every girl needs.  My list of basics includes the following:

Black Pants–When I find a great fitting pair of black pants, I sometimes by two pair.  I also try to have several silhouettes of pants:  wider leg, slimmer fit.
Cardigans–As an essential wardrobe element, cardigans are great because they can be worn year round,  can be dressed up or down, and are figure flattering on just about everyone. Plus, I’m always cold.
Jeans–Ok, I admit shopping for jeans is not fun, but when it comes to jeans, finding a great fit is critical.  I vote for darker washes and straight legs.  And, I think you should own a “tall” pair for heels, and a “short” pair for flats.
Classic White Shirt–Nothing is more versatile than a white shirt.  Try building a wardrobe with several different styles. 
Your Favorite Colors–Your wardrobe should definitely include pieces in the colors you love.  Guaranteed to make you feel good.
Black Pumps–Every girl needs a great pair of go-to black pumps–kitten heel and a higher heel.  I have a very narrow foot and slip-on shoes rarely fit me, so I tend to go for a black shoe with a slingback.
  
 
  
  
 
 Black Pencil Skirt–While every girl needs a LBD in their closet, I think a black pencil skirts is another essential. It’s versatile, figure flattering and never goes out of style.
 
  • Personalize with accessories–Think of accessories as the ribbon on the package.  If you love gold jewelry, then make it apart of every outfit you wear.  If you love scarves, then build a great collection of scarves.  If shoes are your thing, then wear a killer pair every time your step out. 

 

  • Become Known for something-One of my old sales reps loved patterned ballet flats.  Every time you’d see her, your eyes would gravitate towards the floor to check out her shoes.  Find a fashion element that you can become known for and make it apart of your signature style. 

 

  • Tailor Your Clothing–I don’t like spending money on tailoring, but it really is the best way to get the best fit from your clothes.  And, at 5″2 I really don’t have a choice!

  • Create a Look Book–Fashion stylist Lloyd Boston is known for creating look books for his clients.  Once he creates a wardrobe for someone, he takes photos of the pieces and outfit combinations and puts them in a book. The book becomes a reference tool when you find yourself saying “I have nothing to wear”.  Try making a look book for yourself, not only a styling tool, but also as a guide to help you shop and build your wardrobe.

 

  • Organize and prettify your closet–Nothing is more daunting than walking into a unorganized and not-so pretty closet.  I have all my shoes in bins with photos on the outside and I recently switched all my clear plastic hangers to those slimline black hangers. They made my closet look better and gave me more room. Spend an afternoon getting your closet together, making it someplace you enjoy to visit.  

 

 

So there you have it, my take on personal style… how to define it, how to create it and how to make it your own!

Now, let’s go shopping!

 

Happy Feet!

With the string of almost 70 degree days we’ve had here in Atlanta, (ok, so it’s only been about 3 days), me and my happy feet decided to take a trip to one of my favorite places, DSW Shoe Warehouse.

 

I don’t know what it is about that place, but seeing endless rows of shoes is so comforting to my soul.  And, the thrill of the hunt that hits you when you enter their doors is just so exciting.

As I walked the aisles, I was excited to see that the gladiator sandal look was out, and that chunky heels, wedge sandals and bright colors are in for Spring.

As someone who is pushing 5″ 3″ tall, I am all for a shoe that will give me a boost and make me look “so much” taller.

Here are some of the looks I am coveting for Spring:

 I love the turquoise color of these wedge sandals and how great they will look with a white outfit.

 

A bit feisty to wear with a cute dress!

Totally too high to wear as an everyday shoe, but these are so my colors!

 

I so love this shoe. I’d wear them with a pair of wide leg jeans, a simple tee and lots of bold jewelry.

A classic that would go with just about anything.

 

After spending over an hour at DSW, I immediately left there and headed to a nail salon where I got a long overdue pedicure.  Now, I am ready for Spring and can’t wait to wear my new spring  sandals.

Aerosole Peep-toe Sandal–cute and comfy!

 

What style of shoe are you looking forward wo wearing this Spring?

 

 
images via gradientmagazine, fashionologie, zappos, dillards, nine west, target

I’m Ready To Party

The holiday party season is here and my calendar is filling up with events and Christmas parties to attend.  So naturally I’ve begun to think about what I’m going to wear to all these festive occasions.  
When it come to party attire, I have some basic rules I like to follow, rules that allow me to easily pull together an outfit, perfect for any party occasion. 
  

Here are my “Holiday Wardrobe Rules” & a few of my favorite holiday finds.

  
1.  Wear Your Favorite Color–I don’t know about you, but when I wear my favorite color I am automatically in a happy mood.  My spirits are lifted and I feel great. So, a little something red is on my wardrobe list this holiday.
2.  Wear Something That Sparkles–Whether it’s a handbag, sweater, earrings or a scarf, the holidays call for something with a bit of bling.  Right now, I am so over-the-top in love with sequined sweaters and tops.  I love how an embellished sweater paired with a pair of dark denim is all it take to make a splash.
3.  Long Earrings are Lushish–I tend to wear long earrings anyway, but during the holidays, I think a pair of long, dangling earrings are a must.  Go for something colorful or beaded for a bit of added glam.
4.   Make a Statement with your Handbag–This time of year, I tend to pull out my clutch handbags and use them more often.  There’s something so feminine and classic about a pretty clutch during the holidays.
5.  Don’t sacrifice Warmth for Pretty–I am one of those people who are always cold, so the current fashion trend of fur embellishments are right up my alley.  I love a sweater with a fur collar or how a fur scarf can dress up a plain outfit. 
6.  Flash Your Footwear–The holidays are a great time to pull out that special pair to footwear and dress up a plain pair of  black pants or jeans.

 

 

Bell Sleeve Cable Sweater–Victoria’s Secret  $29.00
Notte By Marchesa–at The Outnet
Disney Couture Necklace by Tom Binns–at Endless.com
Big Buddha Mia Rosette Satchel–at Lord & Taylor  $85.00
Black & Zebra Bangle Set–Wet Seal  $12.50
Only Mine Ruffle Cardigan–at Nordstrom  $88.00
 

 

These lovely red beaded chandelier earrings are from Anthropologie for $58.00

 

 

Twelfth Street by Cynthia Vincents–at Zappos
Marc by Marc Jacobs–at Barney’s
Michael Kors–at Macy’s  $61.00
Vince Sequined Top–at Net-a-Porter
Sam & Lavi–at Farfetch.com  $132.00
Olive and Oak–at Urban Outfitters  $59.00
Adam Bamboo & Cashmere Cardigan–at Net-a-Porter
 

This beautiful cardigan is available at Kohl’s for $29.99.  Colors: Plum, Black or Silver.  I purchased the silver color for myself.

 

 

  

Santi Clutch–Endless.com
LaRegale Rhinestone Clutch–Ebags  $67.20
Kotur Green Sequin Clutch–Shirise
LaRegale Leopard Clutch–Ebags  $25.60
Menbur Eilinel Clutch–Endless.com  $63
Teardrop Sequin Cross Body Clutch–Banana Republic
LeRagle Red Sequin Clutch–Lori’s Shoes  $42.00

I love this ruffled clutch.  It’s from Macy’s and sells for $35.99

 

Karl Donoghue Suede & Shearling Shrug–at Net-a-Porter
Nicholas K. Jag Cardigan–at Blue & Cream
Faux Fur Button Front Jacket–Charlotte Russe $59.50
Lux Fur Vest–Charlotte Russe–$44.50
Byte by Teso Jacket–at Neiman Marcus
Brown Faux Fur Collar–Torrid $16.00
 

 

How adorable is this fur-trimmed cardigan?  Yours for $39.99 from Kohl’s

 

Poetic Licence–Lori’s Shoes
Betsy Johnson T-Strap Sandal–Endless.com  $165.00
Chariot Animal Print Sling Back–Kate Spade
Jones New York Red Pump–DSW  $59.95
Vaneli Ingrid Bootie–Endless.com  $93.00
Caparros Kellen Flat–Endless.com  $42.64
 
Franco Sarto–Zappos  $64.00

So, with my first holiday party coming up this weekend, and my party attire in place, I’m ready to celebrate the season!

Do you have a ‘go to’ party look?

 
 

FASHION FORMULA

If you’ve followed my blog, you know that I love Canadian designer Sarah Richardson for more than one reason.

First, I admire her because she designs some of the most beautiful and livable spaces, and secondly, because of her fashion style.  If you’ve ever watched her show, you’ve noticed that Sarah’s wardrobe formula is simple and classic. 

Jeans + Jacket + Jewelry= Stylishly Fab!

 

 

 Having reorganized my closet recently, and wanting to revamp my wardrobe for fall, I’ve decided to give Sarah’s wardrobe formula a try.  Here are a few inspiration looks I’ve pulled together.

 

 via

 

 via

So what do you think?  Do you love the look of a stylish blazer, jeans and fab jewelry as much as I do?

I’ve Died And Gone To Shoe Heaven

Did you hear the news? 

 The mecca of all shoe stores has opened in London. 

Selfridges, one of the UK’s most prestigious department stores is opening the Shoe Galleries which will have over 100,000 pairs of shoes at any one time.  I can’t even begin to imagine what 100,000 pairs of shoes looks like.

Selfridges in London

The shoe offering will include everything from the world’s largest Haviana wall to the latest designer collections by Christian Louboutin, Jimmy Choo, Chanel and Gucci.

To make the shoe department even more special, Selfridges has designed the six salons and 11 boutiques that will make up this colossal shoe store into themed apartments to reflect each brand.  The Chanel boutique was designed as a reflection of Coco Chanel’s apartment in Paris, and the Jimmy Choo salon is adorned with hand-painted gold foil wall paper.

When I read the news about this magnificent shoe department, I had to do a little research, just to investigate all the brands that would be under one roof.  

 In addition to carrying some of my favorite brands like Ugg, Marc Jacobs and Elie Tahari , the Selfridges shoe emporium will carry brands like Chloe, D&G and even Nine West.  One of the European lines that will be represented is the Kurt Geiger line. I didn’t know  about Kurt Geiger until coming across his name on the website, but once I saw his shoe designs I had a mad crush.  Check out these lovely’s designed by Mr. Geiger.

Erica stiletto shoes

The Erica stiletto is so fab– Every girl needs a pair of animal print stilettos.

Willoughby lace–up boots

Willoughby Lace Up Boot– Such a cute boot to get me through the fall season.

 Dandy lace up shoes

Dandy Lace Up Shoe–So cute and in my favorite color too!

So, when I just can’t seem to find that perfect little ballet flat, I guess I’ll have to make a trip across the water and endure a few days in London looking at all 100,000 pairs of shoes at Selfridges.  Anyone want to join me for a little shopping excursion?

until next time…

 all images via Selfridges

DESIGN CRUSH: REBECCA MOSES

OMG!  This is one of the most fabulous books I’ve come across in a long time. 

 Rebecca Moses, an icon in the fashion and home design business has penned her first book, A Life of Style, and it is brilliant. 

Combining beautiful watercolor illustrations with her fashion and interior design knowledge, provoking words of wisdom, and an abundance style savvy advice, Rebecca’s book really makes you think about how you express your personal style. 

  Within hours of opening the box, I began flipping the pages, absorbing every word and marking my favorite “words of wisdom” with post-its. 

In addition to learning a few new things about the world of design, I also walked away fully inspired to re-look and re-define my personal style.

Here are few of my favorite inspiring thoughts from Rebecca.  I think you’ll be inspired to.

 There Are No Rules In Style,  Just Good Instincts!

True Style I s Understanding Who We Are and Having the Conviction To Express It.

Style is Not Skin Deep.  It is Soul Deep.  It is Our Most Significant form of Expression.  It is How we Communicate Who we are to the World Around us.  It is a Reflection of Who We Are, Where We Have Come From, and What we want to SAY to the World Around Us!  IT IS OUR VOICE!

If you love design and fashion as much an I do, you’ll definitely want to add this book to your collection.  Enjoy!

until next time…

 all images via Rebecca Moses

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