Endless Summer

Summer is winding down and with that comes chillier evenings.  Bulk up your cute summer outfits with a transitional accessory to keep the summer vibe going strong.  I've decided on the ever-versatile knee socks (can be worn with tights in the winter too!)  Gotta keep my stems warm =)

S u m m e r S a f a r i

What's black and white and, in my case, NOT red all over?  ...My favorite tribal print leggings!  Paired with a simple black summer sweater, I'm prepared for a chic and sophisticated safari!

Modern Bag Lady

Earthy colors and nostalgic prints are key components in my "well traveled" look...  Perhaps I should consider swapping my sandals for some hiking boots and see where the road takes me?!

Breaking Through the Clouds

A bright pop of color can brighten even the stormiest of summer days.  I've opted for the ever-popular coral and paired it with a dark wash denim short for contrast.

For added effect, pair coral with white or dark grey!

Out of this World

Pinterest has turned me into a D.I.Y. monster!  I first took notice of the galaxy print on an Armani skirt featured on one of my favorite fashion websites, www.lookbook.nu.  It was love at first sight, but upon discovering the price tag, I decided to take on the project myself, and it was so simple and cheap!  Paired with a bright tee for a pop of color, I hope to look as expensive as I feel with my best kept D.I.Y. secret.

A Charitable Affair

I was fortunate to attend a charity event this weekend.  When I do good, I like to look good!  A simple body-con dress with a statement necklace did the trick for me.  The best part?  The dress and necklace were less than $20!  Dressing up to donate never felt so good!

Flea Market Frenzy

What to wear when shopping for bargains?  It's the weekend, and if I'm lucky enough, I'm spending it with my man at the flea market!  What better place to find some vintage treasures, and nothing quite compares to the people-watching.  That being said, a cute outfit is definitely a must to ensure those wandering eyes are not targeting you!

Rawr

(Top - Forever 21, Pants - RVCA)

Galaxy prints are everywhere this season, so when I spotted this gem with an equally popular tiger face on it, I knew it was meant to be!  Paired with wide-leg pants and hot pink wedges, I am ready for a day of shopping, or lunch with friends.

Cabana Chic(k)

With a recent heat wave in effect, all I care to do is stay cool!  I'm opting to take the cruise casual look straight from the ship to the streets.  Loose, airy, lightweight:  all characteristics of the clothes I want to wear right now.  Top this look off with a wide brimmed straw hat!

Peplum Please!

I will happily admit that while they were fun, I don't miss high school dances!  In fact, I've found an even better party...  Weddings!  I was fortunate to find the perfect cocktail dress featuring one of this summer's hottest trends, peplum, to wear to my first wedding of the season.  This figure-flattering silhouette is a must-have -- note how the added skirt widens the appearance of the hips, making the waist look smaller!

Wear your peplum proudly ladies!

Swapped!

Rising temperatures outside equal arctic conditions inside!  So don't stow away all of your scarves and leggings just yet.  These pieces are crucial for the summer months seeing as they are both easily removable when heading back outdoors.  A simple swap of the scarf with a necklace, and it's time for some fun in the sun!

Lazy Sunday

(Graphic Tee - Element, Pants - Forever 21, Shoes - Forever 21)

Seeing as it is Father's Day, I have opted to pay homage to my dad, a classic jeans and t-shirt guy!  His tee's are typically adorned with the name of a city he has visited, while mine offer free marketing to most of the major action sports brands.  Nonetheless, I think we pull off the look quite well, and I can't thank him enough for passing on such a laid back sense of style.

Green Eyed Monster

(Dress - Forever 21, Shoes - Chinese Laundry)

There is no better time than summer to show off your curves, so why not do it in a stylish body-con dress?  From stripes to florals to solids, the options are endless; making where to go when you are dressed the hardest decision!

Cheap Thrills

(Dress - O'Neill)

Fact:  This dress was $10.  I would love it the same if it had cost me $50, but I probably wouldn't have bought it either.  I love a good bargain!  Since this dress is so simple, my options are endless when it comes to styling.  I would wear the look above to work, or out with friends.  On the opposite side of the spectrum, I can wear it over a bathing suit with sandals, and I am ready for the beach!

Cream of the Crop

Another jeans and a t-shirt day?!  Break away from the norm and test out a cropped top!  It is perfect for the warm weather, and you can be fashionably comfortable at the same time!

Cold Shoulder

(Top - Hurley, Skirt - Forever 21, Shoes - Steve Madden)

Don't miss out on one of summer's hottest trends!  On your next shopping trip, make sure to scope out tops with the shoulders cut out.  The size of the cut-out may vary, as will the sleeve length.  A short sleeve top paired with denim or shorts is a great casual option, while a long sleeve top is perfect paired with a skirt for a date!

To the Max!

(Dress - Forever 21)

Don't let the length fool you!  Whether it's a day at the beach, a concert, or date night, a maxi dress can be worn anytime.  Add to that the ease of styling, and you've got a summer closet staple!

Feeling Feline

(Top - Forever 21, Denim - Forever 21)

Leopard is the new neutral.  The next time you find yourself reaching for the same little black dress or basic black item, stop!  Now is the time to invest in a nice animal print piece -- or two!  Pay attention to fabrication and silhouette or your vision of a Kardashian sister may turn into Peg Bundy!

Style Tip:  I always like to pair my animal print with gold accessories for a more expensive feel.

Nine to Five Fashion

(Dress - Forever 21, Blazer - A.Byer, Shoes - Mossimo)

Why wait for a day off to look fashionable?!  Wearing a great outfit to work will not only make you look and feel more confident  (you will get a TON of compliments), but you may find that you no longer want to change into sweats the moment you get home!

Mint Mania

(Dress - Forever 21, Shoes - Vans)

One of springs hottest colors is mint!  From tops to jeans - I've even seen shoes, this color is all the rage.  I've opted for a striped dress, and paired with some cute oxfords, I'm ready a bit early for the weekend!

Happy Friday!

Triple Trend Tuesday

(Dress - Forever 21)

Hi-Lo is all the rage right now, and when combined with the always-stylish maxi silhouette, this dress knocks out two trends!  Paired with a statement necklace, I am a triple threat!

Hanger Appeal

Merchants display their clothes on mannequins for a reason, and I know what you're thinking... "To entice the shopper to buy them", right?!  As a retail professional, I can admit, there is some truth to that statement, however many items just don't look appealing on the hanger!  With many non-traditional silhouetted tops and dresses hitting the stores for summer, you may encounter one of these items yourself.  Be adventurous and try it on; you may find a hidden gem!

It's A Jungle Out There

(Top - Charlotte Russe, Skirt - Forever 21, Shoes - Steve Madden)

Summer is right around the corner, and I'm eager to be spotted in my wild tribal.  With such a colorful print, matching is a breeze!  I opted for a color block skirt -- another hot trend right now.  So, join me this summer and indulge in some ikat!

Fringe Benefits

(Flannel Wrap - Billabong, Dress - Forever 21)

When I am running late, I don't have time to think about detailing my outfit. One of my favorite ways to accessorize is by not wearing any accessories at all! My flannel wrap is edged with fringe which adds the perfect amount of interest so I can tone down my jewelry. Paired with a little black dress and studded boots, I am ready to go! I love built in accessories when I am in a pinch!

One Tequila...

(Sweater - Billabong, Dress - Forever 21)

Cinco de Mayo will be my last opportunity to wear sequins in a while, as it is quite the festive occasion!  My striped Billabong sweater over a little black dress will do the trick, and I will really light up the dance floor after a few margaritas!  While it's probably not a planned occurrence, wearing a dress is not recommended if you end the night on the floor!

Fiesta!

*Hat Not Included

(Dress - Rachel Roy, Hat - Philip Treacy)

Only one shopping day left before the Kentucky Derby, and if you are lucky enough to be attending the event, the pressure is on!  Fortunately, a summery dress topped off with an extravagant hat (think Royal Wedding style) are all you need!

Twisted Tuesday

(Dress - Forever 21)

Denim pants are a staple item in most wardrobes, mine included.  With the versatility of such a fabric, why not go beyond pants?  I will admit, I have blogged about this dress before, and that is the beauty of it.  My first post was an edgy look.  Here, it is girlier and all I did was change accessories!

Cha-Ching!  One investment -- multiple ways to style it!

Weekend Warrior

(Jumpsuit - Forever 21, Wedges - Bamboo)

Burning the midnight oil...and then some?!  Don't show up at brunch in last night's attire.  No time to rack your brain styling an outfit?  A cute jumpsuit is a quick and easy option, and accessorizing is a breeze!  A wide belt and a pair of wedges finish off my look, and in no time I'm off to sip some mimosas while reminiscing about the weekend's festivities!

Dare Wear

(Top - Forever 21, Shorts - Forever 21)

"Nice Stems."  That's what you would hear this season if it were still the 90's a la "Clueless" (Trivia answer number one!)  Sky high hemlines were all over the S/S runway, and if you believe global warming is occurring like I do, I'm predicting a long, hot summer!  Perfect timing designers, and thank you in advance for keeping me cool while looking hot =)

Picnicking with the Flowers

(Blazer - Hurley, Top - Ocean Pacific, Denim Shorts - Patrick Robinson, Wedges - Forever 21)

Spring is in full bloom, and my wardrobe is not far behind!  Floral prints have not always graced the hangers in my closet, but let's just say they have grown on me!  For this look, I opted to don an ongoing trend by mixing my prints.  Floral and stripes are my favorite duo, and it is really easy to pull off!  The green in my top is fairly muted, so I chose my olive striped blazer to compliment the reds and pinks in the flowers, making them really pop!  Since this is a pretty "loud" outfit, a simple chain necklace and brown belt will top off this look.

Cheers to a midweek mixer!

Cut It Out!

(Top - Lucy Love, Denim - Forever 21)

This Spring, why not stray away from the norm, and ditch the boring tank tops and t-shirts everyone else will be wearing?  Many tops feature special draping or cut-outs that highlight a certain part of the body.  Would your arms make Michelle Obama jealous?!  Opt for a short sleeve top with shoulder cut-outs.  Do you stand strong and tall?  An open-backed top is your best bet!  For the adventurous, a cropped top is a great way to show off your midriff.  Keep in mind that while it is fun to show some skin, this trend should be worn in moderation, so make up for the lack of fabric on top by styling it with a smart choice of bottom.

It's Raining Chevrons?

(Dress - Forever 21, Shoes - Forever 21)

April showers not only bring May flowers!  Cooler weather often accompanies rain in my neck of the woods.  Fortunately this dress is versatile in any weather, and today I will be pairing it with tights and over the knee socks.  Topped off with a light knit hat, I am ready to take on the elements.

Kudos to you if you took note of the chevron lace!  I have been seeing chevron on clothing and jewelry a lot lately and I am predicting that this trend will carry on to summer as well!  With so many styles available, surely everyone from the boho chic to the grunge girl will be sporting some chevron!

Wa(i)sted

(Top - Forever 21, Denim - Forever 21)

Father's all over the world can rest easy tonight!  Gone are the days of dangerously low pants and shorts that leave nothing to the imagination.  High waist silhouettes have been creeping back into the market for a couple of years now, and I am finally ready to embrace them with open arms!  Thankfully there are plenty of options when it comes to the fit.  Being a beginner, I opted for flare denim.  Pairing a top with these pants can be a bit tricky.  A fitted shirt or bodysuit is a no-fail option, or for a more relaxed look, consider a boxy, cropped top!

So... who's willing to get "waisted" with me?!?

Coachella Couture

(Top - Jessica Simpson, Shorts - Forever 21, Shoes - Bamboo)

I couldn't help getting caught up in the media frenzy surrounding Coachella, the music festival in Indio, California.  What great inspiration for the upcoming concert season!  Flowy tops with short shorts, long, billowing maxi dresses, the list goes on and on.  Keeping the fabric light-weight will help you  stay cool and will also allow for maximum movement when dancing to your favorite song =)

Welcome to the Capitol

(Top - Forever 21, Dress - Forever 21)

I have a confession:

Like most of the population, I too, have been struck by Katniss' arrow (but in a good way!)  I fell in love with The Hunger Games!  Judianna Makasky designed the costumes for the film in which I found inspiration for this outfit.  So, if you've been living in a cave the past few weeks, get out, see the movie, and get inspired!

Denim Tuxedo

(Dress - Forever 21, Hat - Hurley, Boots - Rocket Dog)

With the weekend approaching, I'm ready to let loose a little early.  This denim dress gives new meaning to casual Friday!  While most will be wearing denim on their legs, I will opt out and wear a comfy pair of leggings on mine.  Adding a wide belt at the waist of the dress intensifies the illusion of curves, and lessens the frumpiness factor!  Topped off with a few accessories, I am ready to go.

Is is 5 o'clock yet?!

Mood Ring Spring

(Hat - Hurley, Flannel - Hurley, Denim Shorts - Vintage, Corduroy Pants - Hurley)

Sunny one day, dreary the next.  Spring is a confusing time of year, so don't pack away all of your winter wear yet!  For a warm spring day, I will pair my favorite Hurley flannel with a pair of cut-off denim.  Topped off with a hat, I am ready to go, no jacket necessary!  Cooler days bring out the grunge in me.  I get cold easily, so I pair my flannel with some really cool corduroy pants, which are cotton, so I find them to keep me a lot warmer than denim.  Combat boots and an elaborate chain necklace complete the look: totally grungified!

Coral Craze

(Blazer - Forever 21, Top - Forever 21, Denim - Forever 21, Heels - Rue 21)

Spring is here, and that means it's time to push all of the dark and muted items to the back of the closet.  If you are feeling daring, try out one of this season's most popular trends: neon!  For those not feeling quite so adventurous, try coral.  It is still bright, and looks great if you were lucky enough to get a spring break tan.  To pull off this color palette, pair the neon with lace or chiffon, and you are ready to go... subtly bold!

Hi-Lo Can You Go

(Jacket - Jixi Jeans, Top - Kirra, Skirt - Lucy Love, Shoes - Chinese Laundry)

Welcome to the weekend!  With such a busy work week, Saturday = Date Night!  Hi-Lo is the featured silhouette on everything lately: dresses, tops, and skirts to name a few.  To keep my look a bit more casual, I opted for a skirt, and dressed it up with a gold lurex tank.  To finish the outfit, and help keep me a bit warmer, I topped it off with one of my go-to jackets (which also happens to be my date's favorite!)

Cheers!

Ahoy Striper!

(Blazer - Forever 21, Oxford - H&M, Pants - Forever 21, Orange Top - Truly Madly Deeply, Shoes - Chinese Laundry)

As resort season wraps up in stores with early summer product arriving, it's now or never to show off this nautical ensemble.  Don't get me wrong, this blazer will NOT get lost to the depths of my closet in the upcoming months!  And could it, really?  This blazer screams stripes...one of the very reasons I fell in love with it.  Stay tuned for an updated warm weather option involving everyone's favorite summer staple...DENIM SHORTS!

On another note, for those who read my last post, "Crayon Stems" how about a little trivia?  Words/lines from two movies were referenced, can you name them?  Those who are new to the blog can guess too, it will just require a little extra reading =)  Leave your answers in the comment box!  I will post the answers at a later date.  Speaking of the comment box, I love the feedback I am getting!  Thank you =)

Crayon Stems

(Top - Forever 21, Denim - Roxy, Shoes - Chinese Laundry)

I shudder to think that merely a year ago these jeans were on the verge of going into the Goodwill pile!  Colored denim is so hot right now, and I am happy to report that these babies aren't going anywhere anytime soon.  Those interested in livening up your spring wardrobe should check out Joe's Jeans.  With 54 washes, the sky is the limit!  I can't keep my eyes off of the Geranium Wash.

Color Block Me!

(Cardigan - Forever 21, Dress - Forever 21, Scarf - Isaac Mizrahi)

Color blocking is one of my favorite trends.  This dress is amazing on it's own, but I topped it off with a leopard print scarf, cardigan, and leggings.  Perfect for the office or even a night on the town!

Cheers to a new week of fashion!