Friday, November 14, 2014

Here Comes the Cape Blazer



Cape Blazer from E. Leigh's Little Rock Location / LOFT Sheer Dotted Tie-Neck Blouse 
Black Shorts (old, but love these) / Spanx Tights (Best Tights EVER!) / Nine West Black Heels
Gold Snake Print Clutch from Proposals (similar here) / Bangles from Indigo Little Rock

I'll never forget the time in college when I was asked by a long-time crush of mine to be his date to a wedding of mutual friends. After gawking over this boy for a handful of years, I started planning what I would wear before he even finished the verbal invitation! As luck would have it, the imperfection (pimple) of a lifetime decided to grace my left temple with it's award-winning presence the day before the wedding. Out of great despair, I did everything but surgically remove my unwanted accessory...pestering it death and drowning it in darn-near bleach before I went to bed. Not to mention a very indepth prayer of pleading and reasoning with the Dear Lord Above to remove this pimple from my temple and throw it as far as the east is from the west. (After all, He does ask us to come to Him with whatever is on our mind and this pimple was, literally, on. my. mind.)

With visions of pimple-free skin dancing in my head as I slept, I awoke the next morning to a throbbing in my head and my left eye completely swollen shut! Yes, I said...Swollen. Shut! Apparently you shouldn't mess too much with a "pimple on your temple". Not only do you risk losing a future date, but you will at some point, lose your vision. (Mark that one in the books as a lesson learned and feel free to thank me.) With the fear of my imperfection outshining the bride, I decided to cancel the date and not attend the wedding with who would soon be "Mr. Not So Right".

Fast forward many years later, THE Mr. Right (aka LP, aka the Hubs) and I had a wedding to attend last weekend, with thankfully, no pimple in sight. Having this black cape blazer from E. Leigh's at the forefront of my closet, I quickly knew what I would be wearing. I loved pairing the over-sized cape blazer with shorter shorts as it allowed the cape blazer to stand out a bit and show off its uniqueness. The sheer and dotted tie-neck top underneath added the perfect dose of femininity! I received so many compliments on this blazer that I wished I had brought stock to sell! As the weather gets cooler, I'll be pairing the blazer with a pair of fitted "faux-real" leather leggings and heels. How will you be wearing your must-have cape blazer this fall?

Friday, October 31, 2014

Eight Sixty Snake Print Tank




Gazel Panthea Rose Gold Necklace (Yellow Gold available here) /
Stella & Dot Long Layering Charm Necklace (old, but love these) / 
Snakeskin Cuff (old, but love this) / J. Crew Gold Rhinestone Layering Bracelet (old) / 
White House Black Market Khaki Jacket (old, but this one by Free People is super cute) / 
Eight Sixty Multi-colored Snakeskin Tank (no longer available, similar here) /

Many years ago, I had a friend who was going through a breakup from her long-time boyfriend, the boy whom she just knew she would marry. Living together, she had accepted all his quirks, human faults and even his pet snake. After the breakup and during the move, the pet boa constrictor went missing. Though she thought is was unfortunate for her (now) ex-boyfriend, she proceeded with her move, taking the furniture that was hers which included the couch. About week later, as she lay on her couch in her new apartment watching television, guess who decides to crawl out of the back of the couch and look her eye to eye. Yep! That missing pet boa constrictor. Can you imagine?!

Snake print is always fun (when it's not crawling around on the ground or out of your couch), but it's even more fun with COLOR! I love the way Eight Sixty brought two main vibrant and complimentary colors into this tank. As the weather gets cooler, I will be wearing this tank with dark wash coated skinny jeans and a long boyfriend cardigan. How are you wearing your snake print for the fall?!

Monday, October 27, 2014

Quilted Sweatshirt





RD Style Black Textured Faux-Leather Accented Sweatshirt (available at Jupe NYC) /
Old Navy Black and White Crew Neck Tee / Denim: Joe's Jeans / Heels: Nine West (purchased at Warrens Shoes; similar here; also love these) / Necklaces: Stella & Dot (old; similar here) / 

No matter the season, having a simple "go-to" piece in your wardrobe is ESSENTIAL! This RD Style black textured faux-leather accented sweatshirt is my current "go-to". I love that it's super easy yet it also has characteristics that set it apart from other simple "black sweatshirts". The faux-leather elbow patches and its quilted design make it easy to pair with heels, yet the overall material makes it easy to pair with loafers or ballet flats. Wear by itself or layer over everything from a white button-down to a simple striped/colored tee. What's your fall "go-to" piece? Do you have an effortlessly chic outfit you can go-to when you have a last minute appointment?


Tuesday, August 26, 2014

Denim on Denim




To say the last few weeks have been a whirlwind would be an understatement. Between travel, photo shoots, magazine contributions, the continued launch of a new style venture (one that you are going to L-O-V-E) and the start of a new school year for the peanuts, the last few weeks have been like a mid-spring southern tornado! But exhausted or not, I absolutely could not wait to get back to blogging!

I wore this outfit to a photo shoot and after hours of styling and fighting the lovely Arkansas heat, I thought I would stop and take a few pics so I could share! Now, before you say anything, I know what you are thinking. The outfit post above contains nothing special. However, there were a couple of unexpected accessories that worked well with the denim on printed denim look, as well as some great everyday style tips, so I wanted to share.

Let's start with the shoes and work our way up.

  • Style Rule #61 - Invest in a versatile, go-to, black sandal/wedge for the summer. This was literally the third spring/summer for these Dolce Vita wedges and I still wear them ALL THE TIME! Not only are the comfortable, but I receive constant compliments on them.
  • Style Rule #231 - It's best roll/cuff your jeans (in some manner) while wearing booties or wedges. Need a few rolling/cuffing tips? See this great article via Babble
  • Style Rule #194 - Invest in a great fitting pair of dark denim - they will be your unfailing wardrobe buddy year-round. Due to being so graciously and genetically blessed in the behind, I have found that there are many styles of Joe's Jeans that fit me best. 
  • Style Rule #53 - Own a leopard belt. Not only is leopard print thought of as a "neutral" but it will always take a simple outfit up a notch. Tip: It's best to only wear one (1) leopard print "item" at a time. For instance, if you are wearing a leopard print top or blazer, do not wear leopard print shoes to "match". Instead, opt for a solid color on the feet.
  • Style Rule #87 - (As you probably already know by now) It is definitely safe to wear denim on denim. Though I personally am not the biggest fan of denim on denim, I do love how this particular top gives the "denim" a break with a bleached white checkerboard look. Not to mention that it is the softest thing ever! I was in Dallas, Texas, when I had a quick second after lunch and popped into the Apricot Lane next door to the restaurant. This little guy was the only one left on the rack, but I do think they said that the Little Rock store should have them.
  • Style Rule #36 - Accessories, accessories, accessories! Accessories will change the look of an outfit in an instant! The J.Crew rhinestone necklace completely changed the look of this denim shirt, and the best part, it is completely unexpected. To tell you the truth, I probably wouldn't have even worn this outfit if I wouldn't have had this necklace. Annnnnnd, then there are my go-to gold bangles that I get an incredible amount of use from. So in the case that you don't own a good pair of gold bangles, you definitely should add some to your accessory wardrobe. I purchased these at Indigo in Little Rock

Sunday, July 27, 2014

GiGi New York Summer SALE!


A wardrobe/accessory item that I find worth the investment (aka "splurge") is a beautiful and classic handbag and clutch. Yes, the fashion lover inside wants to purchase every-single trendy clutch and fringe bag available, but the size of my closet quickly reminds me that there will be no room for that trendy bag when it goes out of style next month. (That's why you will see the same handbag/clutch over and over again in my #ootd posts.)

GiGi New York handbags are a favorite of mine! I literally visit their website weekly and "ohh" and "ahh" over their beautiful handbags, crossbodys, clutches, wallets and tech accessories that can be PERSONALIZED! (And you know how much those of us in the South love to personalize...EVERYTHING!) All of that being said, they have been having an AMAZEBALL weekend sale on their website with items ranging from 50% - 60% off. And while I have spent the weekend trying to determine which piece will be branded with my initials, I have somehow completely forgotten to tell all of you about the sale! So HURRY!!! Visit GiGi New York's Summer Sale and grab a bag!! 

Thursday, July 24, 2014

So Fresh and So Clean White Blazer




Blazer: J.Crew (similar); Pink Tank: from Indigo Little Rock; Denim: Joe's Jeans
Renegade Layering Necklaces: Stella & Dot (old)
Shoes: Dolce Vita (old); Gold Bangles: from Indigo Little Rock; Wristlet: from E.Leigh's
Mad Photography Skills by the Hottie Husband and his iPhone

Along with black, white is just one of those colors that's super easy to buy. Why? Because it will basically go with everything else in your wardrobe. However, white can also be your worst enemy. Wear it close to your face, and depending on your skin tone, it can easily wash you out. Wear it on your bottom, and it will show every-single perfect imperfection. (And Lord knows I have plenty of those!)

I love, love, love a white blazer. LOVE. A. WHITE. BLAZER! However, due to my olive skin tone, I need to be a little strategic when wearing one. After being in San Diego for a week, I had plenty of color to pull it off. However, in the rare case that the sun didn't shine in California during my stay, I had brought along this supercalifragilistic pink tank to layer under my white blazer and give my face some color. I think it was pretty much the pop of pink perfection that this white blazer needed!

Wednesday, July 23, 2014

Emily & Meritt Collection for Pottery Barn Teen








Not only did they create the perfect jean, but now they have created the perfect bedroom! Emily and Meritt, the cult denim designers behind Current/Elliott, recently collaborated with Pottery Barn Teen to create a girl's dream bedroom suite come true! But don't be mistaken...this line isn't just for teens. This line is for any fashion-forward female looking to update anything from her bedroom to her office. Imagine vintage-Americana with an Alice in Wonderland twist. It's utterly amazing! I. AM. OBSESSED!! (And also a little jelly that such perfection can continue to come from these two fashionistas.)

As for myself, the launch of this incredible line couldn't have more perfect timing. Between updating my master bedroom to my office to my daughter's room, if my budget would allow, I would literally purchase the entire collection! I'm so inspired! Come DIY or empty checking account, I must have a piece of this brilliant collection. Above are a few of my faves. What pieces will you be snatching up?!

Friday, July 18, 2014




Feathered Racerback Tank (purchased at Indigo) / Citizens of Humanity Avedon Ultra Skinny in Chromatic Jeans / J.Crew Black Skinny Belt (no longer available - similar here) / Can You Hear Me Seychelles Gold Metal Heel (Maude Boutique)
Photo Credit: My Hottie of a Husband and his fabulous iPhone
 
From in-store boutique guest-styling to surfing, I have made the most out of each visit to San Diego over the past 10 years. Yet, there is one thing that I had yet to check off my "San Diego Bucket List" - shop the stores of Fashion Valley Mall. From Louis Vuitton to Free People to Zara to Tory Burch and Kate Spade, Fashion Valley Mall is a fashion stylist's dream. Needless to say, I had a fabulous day of expanding my wardrobe and I enjoyed sporting this feathered racerback tank while doing so! Added bonus: I literally had 10 people (if not more) stop and ask me where I bought my fine feathered friend. My response: "Oh, this little boutique in the small town of Little Rock, Arkansas, called Indigo." (And yes, I am obviously still obsessing over my little gold cap heeled booties.)

Thursday, July 17, 2014

Lace Kimono = Brunch Perfection






Lace Kimono (purchased at Indigo in Little Rock) / Pink Racerback Tank (purchased at Indigo in Little Rock) / Long Rhinestone Necklace (purchased at Indigo in Little Rock) / J.Crew Black Linen Shorts (no longer available) / 
Gold Bangle Bracelets (purchased at Indigo in Little Rock) / 
Can You Hear Me Seychelles Gold Metal Heel Shoes (purchased at Maude Boutique)
Photo Credit: The Hottie of a Husband

Let me just say, there is nothing like taking fashion images for your style blog with your iPhone. However, when you are on vacation, and you forget your beloved camera at home, you work with what you have, right?! (Not that I have even begun to master pictures with my REAL camera, but I'm sure you are picking up what I'm throwing down.) And while I'm talking about pictures, what is with the "sexy funny face" I'm working with? Good gracious...Vogue, vogue, strike a pose!

My husband and I have traveled to San Diego nearly every year for the past 10 years. While my husband has to work during our stay, I take the time while he is away, to hit my favorite shops and eateries. These pictures were taken on our first full day in San Diego which was actually a Sunday. And Sunday being the "Funday" that it is, we always make sure to make the most of The Crab Catcher's Champagne Brunch in La Jolla. I think this lace kimono turns an average pink tank and black shorts into the perfect brunch outfit. Don't you?! The rhinestone necklace that I am wearing is one of my faves. Not only is it great for layering, but I love to tie it into a knot making it a necklace of its own kind! And the shoes, they are my current obsession. I think I may have worn them every. single. day. during our stay. I mean, gold capped heels...how could you ever go wrong?!

Wednesday, July 9, 2014

Rock the Runway - What I Wore








BCBG top (no longer available) / BCBG skirt - ON SALE / Stella & Dot Renegade Necklaces (old) / 
Heart Necklace (custom via Kyle Rochelle Jewelers)
Gold Bangles (purchased here) / Knuckle Ring (purchased here) / Black Studded Clutch (old)
Nine West Martina Black Heels

Needless to say, this post is quite fashionably late!

If you were unable to attend this year's Rock the Runway, you missed a fantastic time! From the perfectly pink Rock the Runway cocktail to the runway dripping in amazing florals to the swag bag of all swag bags and the deliciously rockin' after party - we had a blast supporting an uber-important cause.

Carrie Bradshaw, with a touch of the 2014 Spring/Summer athletic trend, was the inspiration for this year's Rock the Runway outfit. I fell in love with and purchased this BCBG skirt (aka "Carrie") at Dillard's a couple of months ago. Bless her fluffy heart, she has patiently hung in my closet waiting for her moment to shine. So, staying true to the requested dress code of "black and white cocktail attire", I knew that Rock the Runway would be the perfect time.

I had originally planned to wear a white fitted crop top with "Carrie", however, after indulging in a crazy delicious, far-from-fat-free, gem of a Cookies n' Cream Milkshake from Big Orange earlier that day, I opted to keep my midriff in hiding and moved on to Plan B - this sheer, BCBG, black and white, athletic-inspired racerback tank that added the perfect amount of "edge". You will notice that I knotted this top in the back. This was done for two reasons: 1) When wearing a full skirt, you should always balance the top with a fitted shirt. This particular top had too much material when simply tucked into the skirt and didn't do "Carrie" justice. By cinching up and tying a knot in the top, I was able to make the tank more fitted, therefore, more appropriate for the skirt 2) "Carrie" has a pretty black ribbon detail on the side of her waist that was easily covered up by simply tucking the tank in.

Finally, I chose to wear a black lace bandeau, vs. a black plain bandeau, under the sheer tank to not only bring a more feminine touch to the top, but to also tie-in the lace found around the bottom of the skirt. I accessorized with layered, spike adorned necklaces and a studded clutch for a edgy finishing touch.

Oh! And no worries. These pictures were taken pre manicure. I quickly painted on a couple of layers of white OPI "My Boyfriend Scales Walls" polish before heading out the door to support Fighting Fancy and the Winthrop P. Rockefeller Cancer Institute at UAMS!

Tuesday, July 8, 2014

Hairstyles for the Summer Heat




Images via www.thebeautydeparment.com
Tutorials found at www.thebeautydepartment.com
The southern heat and humidity have an evil mission to make you glisten (...not sweat...we're from the south so we "glisten" not "sweat"). Not only does it challenge your fashion in a sense of what you wear, but it challenges you in what to do with your hair. Go ahead and give up the time spent creating beachy waves - that turn into a hot hurricane mess as soon as you step outside - and put your focus on what will remain beautiful no matter what the weather. And since the sock bun and average ponytail have worn out their welcome, I thought I would share a few of my favorite summer hairstyles. 

As soon as I began my search for the perfect summer tresses, I knew exactly where to go for inspiration and how-tos:


Though each of the images found above are sourced from The Beauty Department, both of the aforementioned sites remain my go-to for anything and everything hair and makeup. Warning: The tutorials and images found on these sites are so addictive that they could quite possibly call for an intervention! 

Oh! Almost forgot! For those who are still trying to perfect your fishtail, here's an easy-peasy tutorial: