Nambé at Macy's

Recognized for its award-winning designs for more than 60 years, Nambé’s commitment to timeless beauty, artistic integrity, and uncompromising quality is evident in the brand’s collection of serveware, barware, home décor and gift items. I'm sure you've seen them and might not have even realized! Nambé collaborates with the world’s most esteemed designers to develop products that bring function and style into the home. From The British Museum in London to the Museum of Modern Art in New York, Nambé pieces are exhibited in renowned galleries around the world. What to do after you have already achieved such accolades? Well, keep going... Nambé is now partnering with Macys  to bring a stylish, sophisticated line of necklaces, bracelets, rings, and earrings to you. Working with designer Carolyn Pollack (pictured below) they are offering a line of timeless and unique accessories (also pictured below) that were created with the stylish woman in mind. Even better, everything from the line is made here in America, New Mexico to be exact. Most importantly, all the items for Nambé at Macys will be available at a reasonable price especially considering the quality, luxury, and design aesthetic that goes into each piece.

Photo credit: Kent Miller Studios for Macy’s Inc.

Photo credit: Kent Miller Studios for Macy’s Inc.

A photo posted by Iris (@260daysnorepeats) on Oct 18, 2016 at 6:25pm PDT

Photo Credit: Kent Miller Studios for Macy’s Inc.

Customer Service On Fleek

You can't stop my onslaught of continuous white after Labor Day; Wednesday was only the beginning! Muah haha... Ok, ok I'm getting carried away.

The first time I wore this (style of) Lafayette 148 skirt it broke. I sat down, some seams popped, totes embarrassing. Then the most amazing thing happened: I promoted the post, as I do, Lafayette 148 actually checked it out (yay, social media works!,) and when they saw what had transpired they contacted me. Yes, a real life person emailed me/called me and sent me a new skirt which is what I was wearing yesterday. They even sent it to me in a larger size because, apparently, I was in denial about my actual size but, I digress... To this day I count that whole exchange as one of the best customer service experiences I have ever had and remember Lafayette 148 and Nora (the rep who contacted me) fondly.

Fast forward to less face and this Lafayette 148 skirt was under criticism again because it didn't fit for a second time! After all the time I spent working on my fitness the skirt was swimming on me (yay?) I had removed it from my regular wardrobe circulation but, I couldn't bring myself to put it in the donation pile or even Poshmark it because of the positive memories tied to it. Also, rainbow and tweed? That combination couldn't be more me so, I took it to the tailor and now it fits like a glove but, not too tight. There will be no repeat of Seam Bust 2011, at least I hope not.

• Top: red ruffle embellished tank top, apostrophe via Goodwill
• Bottom: rainbow tweed pencil skirt, Lafayette 148
• Shoes & Accessories: black peep toe wedges, Dr. Scholl's; pearl earrings, Macys

I'm linking up with What I Wore to Work, Throwback Thursday, and Thursday Fashion Files

Don't Be Basic

Last Monday my mood was pretty serious/annoyed/tired/synonym despite my happy face. While I was not necessarily excited to get back to the craziness that is work at this moment I was excited to wear this blazer! Mainly because I just got it I was still waiting for all of my tailoring to come back and my blazer options were/are limited, to say the least. Also, how cute is it? I can always count on Current Consignment, one of my favorite places to shop (in the tri-state area,) to have interesting, authentic, and generally affordable items. It's even better when they are having a 50% off sale.

But, about those Mondays... I think the easiest way to deal with less than fun situations (like Mondays) is just to dress your best and act as well put together as you look, even if you don't feel it. Most of the time people are convinced. No? Maybe that just works for me. Either way, it's worth a shot when you are feeling less than motivated. Even if it doesn't work at least you would look good trying!

• Top: blue short sleeved sweater, LOFT; beige blazer, Nanette Leopore via Current Consignment
• Bottom: yellow fresh bloom pencil skirt, LOFT
• Shoes & Accessories: taupe pumps, Steven Madden; pearl earrings, Macys 

I most recently wore this shirt here. I most recently wore this skirt here. 

Inspired Monday

How was you weekend? Mine was a productive and (sort of) relaxing. I got lots of my house chores and personal errands out of the way but, as still able to veg out a bit which I needed. After the intense week last week I needed to take a break and be a bit of a homebody. The only thing I wish I had been able to do was make it to the beach with the high heat but, it didn't work out with Hubby getting ALL the work calls. Maybe next weekend...

Let's talk about this outfit. We wear clothes everyday (hopefully) but, do you ever put something together that you just love? This is one of those combinations for me! I am so comfortable and absolutely in love with the overall combination of clothing and different accessories (these shoes tho.) Bonus, it's professional enough to wear to the office so it makes a great Monday motivation outfit; I am looking put together, feeling good, and wholly ready to keep up the momentum of last week. I am just hoping that that doesn't mean I am in the office every night until all hours. 

• Top: pink ruffle embellished shirt: LOFT via Clementine
• Bottom: gray pencils skirt, New York & Company
• Shoes & Accessories: black and white retro inspired pumps, Bakers via Unique Thrift Store; pearl earrings, Macys

I most recently wore this shirt here. I most recently wore this skirt here.

Summer Interviewing

Today Yesterday Wednesday was another interview open house for work. As you (probably) know that means that I lean towards traditionally professional office attire AKA suits but, that had been a challenge for me given my recent weight loss. Yup, you've heard this all before. Either way today yesterday Wednesday/picture taking Sunday I couldn't wrap my head around idea of wearing all that anyway, it's hot outside! Yay, summer but, I digress... instead I went with the next best thing, a dress. I think it will be like the moving forward in the summer as the interviewer perhaps not if I was the interviewee...

While this dress still fits, for the most part, it is lower cut than I would like. I am excited that I am able to wear different things and smaller sizes now because of my less body that doesn't mean that it's all going on display; modesty, remember? As you might notice I didn't take the picture while wearing a tank top underneath but, after I put the dress on in the morning and went through my morning ablutions, I quickly noticed that things kept popping out so, tank top to the rescue, for the modesty.

• Top: purple, white, and black floral print dress, LOFT; black tank top, Old Navy (not pictured)
• Shoes & Accessories: black peep toe wedges, Dr. Scholl's; pearl earrings, Macys

I'm linking up with What I Wore, Watcha Wearing Wednesday, Style Me Wednesday, Mid-Week Muse 

Denim Who?

Don't panic, I haven't completely forgotten about or given up on denim. It's just that sometimes it's (almost) summer and you want to wear a skirt with boat shoes to work instead of jeans. Also, sometimes you want to wear primary colors in a non-patriotic way but, I digress...  The skirt and topsider combination has happened before and I'm sure it will happen again before the summer has ended. While on a whole I feel like this ensemble is a little too casual for your average day at work, it's the shoes, (again,) it's perfect for casual Friday. Isn't it amazing how one small items makes such a big impact? Although, if I was wearing them with pants I'm not sure these shoes would have such a noticeable impact. Thoughts?

• Top: blue shirt, LOFT
• Bottom: red eyelet lace skirt, Old Navy
• Shoes & Accessories: brown top-siders, Kimmie Smith for Sebago c/o Sebago/Robert Verdi's Luxe Lab; pearl earrings, Macys; vintage pearl necklace, my grandmother's jewelry box 

I'm linking up with Fab Favorites, Favorite Fashion Friday, Passion 4 Fashion, and Casual Friday.

Weekend Wear: DIY Social Butterfly

There were a few things going on this weekend on top of of normal weekend activities (grocery/laundry/tidying up/mulching) like, brunch breakfast on the Upper East Side with a friend visiting from out of state and a baby shower out on the (almost) end of Long Island for my cousin in-law. Did I mention they were both in the same day? Nope, well you can imagine the travel involved... You're not from here? Trust me, it's a substantial amount. Since I needed to be ready to go from spin class to breakfast to baby shower I may or may not have resembled a bag lady in the morning leaving the house. Baby Gift? Check. Gym Bag? Check. Awesome outfit to seamlessly transition through the days activities? Check, although it took me a while to get there.

It was particularly challenging to identify something from my current wardrobe options that fit and was appropriate for the prescribed setting of the baby shower. Two words: Country. Club. After going through my options I wasn't left with many choices. Thanks, less body... The whole process was frustrating, to say the least, and I was about to give up when I caught a glimpse of this fun, forgotten dress in pile of clothes to be tailored/sent to the tailor. When I tried it on I resembled (the child of) a housewife (playing dress up) which felt (ironically) appropriate. I just needed to find a way to make it work despite the lack of an all night tailor in my area. Enter tiny sewing kit! I made a few simple adjustments and the dress went from falling off and almost flashing people to what you see, how do you think it came out?

• Top: yellow hot air balloon printed dress, eShakti.com
• Shoes & Accessories: blue Orissa peep toe pump, Nine West (my wedding shoes;) pearl earrings, Macy's; bronze clutch, Brahmin c/o Vogue Magazine (not pictured)

I'm linking up with Watch What I'm Wearing and Sunday FUNday

Weekend Wonting

Is it Friday yet? I feel like it should be, don't you? Can't you just feel the long weekend calling? No? Ok, fine... let's talk about this shirt. You all (should) know how I feel about stripes. They contribute heavily to a fashion wasteland but, sometimes I'm into it so it's no big deal. This simple navy and white striped shirt is a big deal (to me) though. I spent months (seriously) searching in thrift/regular stores to find the most classic of striped shirts to no avail.

I finally caved and started searching online and wasn't having significantly different luck... After a few tries perusing Google Shopping I came across the website for Christopher & Banks and they had exactly what I wanted (finally) it so I ordered it based on the size chart and waiting with bated breathe for it to arrive. When the shirt came it was HUGE, I should have just ordered a few sizes to try on because that is the story of my life but, I digress... when I went back on the website almost all the sizes were sold out in almost all the colors and I (still) had no idea what size I am was so, I took a chance and ordered the smallest size based on my experience trying on the first shirt and it fits well... who knew?

• Top: navy and white striped shirt, Christopher & Banks
• Bottom: khaki green capris, Not Your Daughter's Jeans via Marshalls
• Shoes & Accessories: nude flats, Coach; pearl earrings, Macys; vintage pearl necklace, my grandmother's jewelry box 

Basic Black "Suit"

This weekend we moved picture taking Sunday to a different part of the lawn where the sun was not trying to blind me (awkward face.) I guess later in the day would be better next time but, I digress... at least we got it done unlike last week. Like last Monday I am all about getting down to business can't you tell form my serious face? No, fine... good thing I'm wearing this "suit" to convey the serious and professional nature of my attitude. Also, I'm presenting today so my ensemble needs to be in line with that and we've I've leaned separates are the best when you are in between suits.  

Let's talk about this shirt for a moment. Have you ever found something while perusing a store that just seemed too good to be true? That was this shirt... While combing through the clearance rack at a local consignment store the bold pattern caught my eye. When I picked it up I realized, after the double take, that it was Missoni, real Missoni (yay) for 75% off the already reduced price (more yay.) After I tried it on and it fit how could I not buy it? There was no way, it was meant to be. What have been some of your greatest shopping "steals?"

• Top: orange striped tank top, Missoni via Current Consignment; black blazer, Ann Taylor
• Bottom: black slacks, Ann Taylor via Goodwill
• Shoes & Accessories: black pumps, Nine West; pearl earrings, Macys 

I most recently wore this blazer here.

I'm linking up with Style to Inspire, Mix It Mondays, Visible Monday, Let It Shine, How I Spring, Monday Mingle, Creative Mondays, Two Birds, and Personal Style Monday

Be(e) Happy

We are in a whole new world! That's right, my back yard. Anyway, Wednesdays are a late night for me. As I mentioned previously I am taking a certification/professional development test prep class after work for the next few weeks and I don't get home until practically bedtime. Then, I wake up at the crack of dawn (as I did this AM) to go to spin class so,  when it comes to my outfit I am definitely looking for something low key and comfortable. Besides, it's almost Friday.

Today, I am wearing clothes (yay) but, my favorite thing about my outfit is these shoes! Although the pants are a close second. They were on consignment clearance and are a size that makes me feel really amazing about myself for arbitrary reasons. But, I digress... when the announcement was made that C Wonder was going out of business I was definitely one of the vultures shoppers who investigated the closing sales. I got a few things but, my crowning (shopping) achievement were these shoes. They are comfortable (win) and fun (bonus points.) Check out a detail shot of the shoes here. Did you get anything when C Wonder was closing?

• Top: coral sweater, GAP
• Bottom: brown plaid ankle pants, J Crew via Current Consignment 
• Shoes & Accessories: navy "bee happy" loafers, C Wonder; pearl earrings, Macys; vintage pearl necklace, my grandmother's jewelry box 

I'm linking up with What I Wore to Work, Throwback Thursday, Thursday Fashion Files, Thursday Favorite Things

Separates Attract

I know, I know, my secret is out, we Hubby took all of my outfit pictures over the weekend. It was better for me given my schedule between gym, work, and this certification/professional development test prep class I am in for the next few weeks. The only issue with advance outfit planning/pictures is that I have to rely on the weather as it is available over the weekend and as we all know meteorology can sometimes feel about as scientific and accurate as fortune telling. I was under the impression that yesterday and today were supposed to be rainy and terrible so, I went with pants and was even getting ready to tuck them into my boots on the way to work... maybe a little overkill.

If you had followed along with my foray into the world of Wordpress you might have seen the post I wrote about suit separates/faking a suit. That's the vibe I am getting from my outfit today even though that was not necessarily my intention. Although, it should have been because I have a recruitment event today but, I digress... As you read (and could probably deduce) most all of my suits don't fit me. I resemble a child playing dress up. It's frustrating to say the least, Suits don't grow on trees! But, enough about my wardrobe "problems," I'll make it work. Overall, I like the way this "suit-esque" ensemble came out even though I wasn't distinctly trying to fake a suit. What do you prefer, suits or separates?

• Top: maroon dolman sleeve blouse, Style & Co.; black blazer, Ann Taylor
• Bottom: black pinstripe pants, Ann Taylor via Goodwill
• Shoes & Accessories: black pumps, Nine West; pearl earrings, Macys

I'm linking up with I Feel Pretty, Random Wednesday, What I Wore, Mid-Week Muse, Style Me Wednesdays, Oh Hey Girl!, Trendy Wednesday, Whatcha Wearing Wednesday, The Wednesday Pants, Style Elixer

November 9, 2012: Back To Business

Since winter had passed and the weather was warming up again it was time to come out of hibernation. Nothing says spring more than a fun dress, too bad it's not really spring... either way a modest dress is always a good professional wardrobe option no matter what season it is especially when you are inclined to put on the comfiest thing possible.

One part of this outfit that could be deemed less than professional are the tights. When I think of fishnets the first thing that comes to mind are burlesque shows and lingerie at least before I started wearing them myself. Fishnets are just another great accessory! I still wasn't completely confident about wearing them in my super professional office. Thankfully no one said anything, I even had a meeting with my CEO sans comments. What kinds of clothing items or accessories have you taken  a chance with at the office? How did it work out?

• Top: navy blue dress, Adrienne Vitadinni via Loehmanns; black pinstripe blazer, Calvin Klein (part of this suit)
• Shoes & Accessories: black ballet flats, Xhiliration for Target; black fishnet stockings, courtesy of No Nonsense; pearl earrings, gift from Mom/Macys; Neverfull GM, Louis Vuitton/gift from BF

Items from this outfit are previously seen and remixed here, here,  here, here, here, here, here, here, here, and here.

Don't forget to enter to win a $100 gift certificate from Shopbop!

October 1, 2011: Black, White, and Light Layers

Yeah, I've been having some issues keeping up with blogging. October is a new month and I am ready to get back on track without getting ahead of myself (I hope.) One of the biggest challenges I am facing in regards to getting dress is the weather. I wake up in the morning and it's cold but, by the end of the day it is extremely warm. Also, I was pretty darn sick and am still getting over the remnants of my illness so, these seemingly subtle changes in temperature are very noticeable to me. 

My solution for now is light tops and a jackets/cardi with a pashmina in my purse in case I need additional warmth. Have you come down with the rando cold/flu that is plaguing the general population right now? How are you handling the change in the weather?

• Top: black and white polka dot dress, Forever 21 via The Big Fat Flea; black and white pinstripe blazer, Calvin Klein (part of this suit)
• Shoes & Accessories: red patent leather flats, Payless; pearl earrings, gift from Mom/Macys; silver watch, Fossil; Neverfull GM, Louis Vuitton/gift from BF

Items from this outfit are previously seen and remixed here, here, here, here, here, and here.

Don't forget to enter the giveaway for a New York Fashion Week Swag Bundle!

July 6, 2012: Almost Half Day

Even though it was a short day on Friday things were fairly normal AKA busy in my office. I even had a few people coming for interviews (not as normal) so I definitely needed to be the most professional me that I could be and we all know nothing is easier than a dress... Enter the quintessential dress for the professional woman: Diane von Furstenberg's wrap dress. It’s such an easy way to create or accent an hour glass shape while looking polished and office appropriate. What is your go to dress for work?

• Top: brown wrap dress, Diane von Furstenberg with a tank top underneath for the modesty; gray pinstripe blazer, Calvin Klein via Loehamanns (part of this suit)
• Shoes & Accessories: nude snakeskin sandals, Bandolino via The Unique Thrift Store; petrified wood necklace, V'ta Jewelry; pearl earrings, gift from Mom/Macys; Neverfull GM, Louis Vuitton/gift from BF

 

Items from this outfit are previously seen here, here, here, here, here, here, here, here, and here.

Weekend Wear: My Cousin's Wedding

I've (kinda) been going on and on about my cousin's wedding so the least I could do is share pictures of me in the fabulous Adrianna Papell dress that I wore! I was so happy when I found it hiding on the sales rack at Macy's after a lengthy search; all it needed was a little tailoring (funky zipper popping out problems) and then it was perfect. I might have said this before but, if you are ever in a pinch for a special occasion dress you should Google Adrianna Papell and see what they have to offer. I'm sure there will be something for you. 

I was equally happy about the fact that I was able to find jewelry and shoes to go with this dress and the occasion in my accessory arsenal so I didn't have to purchase anything else. While my natural old inclination would have been to scrounge up some pink, purple, or yellow jewelry to matchy match the dress my newer style inspired me to go with neutral silver... it goes with everything! What would you have paired this dress with?

• Top: Sleeveless Pleated Surplice Floral Printed Faux Wrap, Adrianna Papell
• Shoes & Accessories: silver Genero Sandal, SE Boutique via DSW;  labradorite necklace, V'ta Jewelry; labradorite earrings, Pennyweights; brown sunglasses, Mossimo for Target; White Monogram Multicolore Alma, Louis Vuitton (not pictured)

June 13, 2012: The Bird Is The Word

Are you ever moved to purchase something just because you saw it in an email advertisement or store window. I don't normally get a chance to do that but, the fantastic size options provided by eShakti.com (and the coupon code I had) made it a no brainer.   

• Top: Birds Who Gossip Dress, eShakti.com with a tank top underneath for the modesty
• Shoes & Accessories: black peep-toe wedges, Dr. Scholl's via Macy's; mother of pearl earrings, Elizabeth Showers Vintage; Neverfull GM, Louis Vuitton/gift from BF 

June 6, 2012: Floral Professional

There is nothing easier in the morning that throwing on a dress. I know I've said it before but, I'll say it again! It's even better for the office when you throw a blazer or cardigan on over to up the professional factor. I also needed something that would be comfortable past the proverbial 5 o'clock whistle since I had my mentoring meet up after work. This jersey dress fit the bill on all fronts plus, I love the floral pattern. What do you wear when you need something comfortable for work and beyond?

• Top: pastel colored dress, axcess for Kohl's via Unique Thrift Store with a tank top underneath for the modesty; gray pinstripe blazer, Calvin Klein via Loehmanns (from this suit)
• Shoes & Accessories: black peep toe wedges, Payless/gift from BF;  pearl earrings, Macy's/birthday gift from Mom; Neverfull GM, Louis Vuitton/gift from BF

Items from this outfit are previously seen and remixed here, here, here, here, here, and here.

June 4, 2012: Monday = Suit Day?

I feel like my new Monday standard is the suit. It's not necessarily a bad thing but, it almost feels like I'm settling on it. It's hard enough to motivate out the door in the morning let alone put together a cute outfit. Enter, the reliable suit... I can roll out of bed pick one out of my closet pair it with a rando shirt and voilà, a work outfit! On some level I feel like that it's a cop out to defer to such a simple ensemble but, maybe I'm just being sensitive to the entire wardrobe situation. What do you think: cop out, work appropriate, or both?

• Top: red short sleeve embellished t-shirt, New York & Company (same shirt different color here, here, here); gray pinstripe blazer, Kasper via Macy's
• Bottom: gray pinstripe pants. Kasper via Macy's
• Shoes & Accessories: silver hardware embellished flats, Preview via Nordstrom Rack; silver bead earrings, Tiffany & Co.; silver watch, Fossil; Neverfull GM, Louis Vuitton/gift from BF 

 

Items from this outfit are previously seen and remixed here, here, and here.

Don't forget to enter the giveaway for a $100 Shopbop giftcard!

Don't forget to enter the giveaway for a free dress from eShakti.com!!

Purchases & Aquisitions: May 2012

You might have gathered that I am going to a wedding at the end of the month. While I was hopeful that eShakti.com would send me a dress I might still be able to make it work with this last minute wedding guest dress it is still not the most flattering ensemble. Combing through my closet again for an alternative so I could avoid shopping was fruitless and I knew I had to hit the stores; Begrudgingly so because, as I've mentioned, shopping in general is becoming less fun and more frustrating.

I decided I was going to hit the discount retailers like Nordstrom Rack, TJ Maxx, and Marshall (to name a few) but, after combing through racks and racks of dresses to no avail I knew it was time to head somewhere else. My shopping buddy and I hoofed it over to Macy's hoping to find something acceptable and end the shopping madness. Thankfully after combing though even more racks and racks of dresses I found an Adrianna Papell dress hiding on a clearance rack. One of my favorite fancy dress designers ever since I wore this dress to a different wedding Maybe it was meant to be...

After trying the dress on and finding it to be a(n almost) perfect fit I knew this was the one. There is some weird business going on with the zipper but, I'm sure my Mom will be able to tame it with her mad sewing skills. With the $140.00 price tag whittled down to $83.00(ish) and a coupon in hand I headed to the register to end my odyssey. To my pleasant surprise the dress was even cheaper than the tag read and with my coupon it came out to $38.36! Totally worth it for my cousin's big day!! Did you have any great shopping experiences last month?

Don't forget to enter the giveaway for a $100 Shopbop giftcard!

Don't forget to enter the giveaway for a free dress from eShakti.com!!

May 29, 2012: Holiday Hangover

Normally this term is synonymous with gorging oneself on too much food or imbibing a few too many cocktails but I find myself out of sorts for a different reason… too much relaxation? I know, that doesn’t really make a lot of sense. I spent Memorial Day weekend catching up on sleep and doing low key things around the house. Nevertheless, I still had SO much trouble peeling myself out of bed on Monday Tuesday morning to go to work; It was like I had just attempted a triathlon or something equally strenuous. What’s up with that?

That being said I am especially proud of myself for keeping it together wardrobe wise and rocking a professional ensemble complete with blazer! The feeling of sheer exhaustion wasn’t the only hurdle I had to overcome when putting my outfit together. The weather in NYC has been pretty gross. We’re talking high temps, 100% humidity (my hair loves this), overcast, misty rain nonsense... ick! I would really love a sunny summer! Is that too much to ask? Sorry, I digress... Picking out clothes to wear in my air conditioned office is hard when I feel like I won’t survive the commute there in what I’m wearing. Do you have any tips and tricks for summer office dressing that I could utilize?

• Top: pink sweater with black trim, Alfani via Macy's via Mom; gray pinstripe blazer, Calvin Klein via Loehmanns (from this suit) 
• Bottom: black skirt, Proenza Schouler for Target 
• Shoes & Accessories: silver silver Stella wedge pumps, Seychelles via DSW; coin pearl necklace, V'ta jewelry; coin pearl earrings, borrowed from Mom then altered by me; Neverfull GM, Louis Vuitton/gift from BF

 

Items from this outfit are previously seen and remixed here, here, here, here, here, here, here, here, and here 

Don't forget to enter the giveaway for a $100 Shopbop giftcard!

Don't forget to enter the giveaway for a free dress from eShakti.com!!