Blazer Vacation

This outfit is from last Thursday. We're almost all caught up...

It's hot outside, did you guys notice that? Yay, summer! While I couldn't be happier to wear white, head to the beach, barbecue, enjoy sunlight until late evening hours, and the many other things that come with summer I am not excited about dealing with the heat which is unusual. I pride myself on being summer baby and keeping it cool in warmer than warm temperatures but, this year I'll be honest, I am struggling. Enter, all the sleeveless things or at least "see you later" blazers! At least until it cools down a little...

• Top: pink ruffle embellished shirt: LOFT via Clementine
• Bottom: gray pants, Ann Taylor via Goodwill
• Shoes & Accessories: black peep toe t-strap sandals, LOFT; silver bead earrings, Tiffany & Co.

I most recently wore these pants here.

Summer Chill

I feel like this weather is really cramping my style. It's June right? Yeah, I thought so. So, shouldn't we all be commuting in flip flops and worrying about dressing for increasingly warmer weather to survive the heat instead of hauling out rain boots and scarves to stave off the cold? OK, I'm glad you agree with me... Maybe the weather will be a liar in our favor and it will say rain but, there will be sun and warmth. That would be great because I would love to grab a fun skirt or dress instead of pants (again.) At least I didn't have to tuck these... 

• Top: purple crochet embellished shirt, LOFT; black blazer, Ann Taylor
• Bottom: gray pants, Ann Taylor via Goodwill
• Shoes & Accessories: black pumps, Nine West; silver bead earrings, Tiffany & Co. 

I most recently wore this blazer here.

I'm linking up with All About You, and Confident Twosdays

Don't forget to enter the giveaway for Nailipop manicure strips!

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

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

June 12, 2012: White on White, A Risky Endeavor

You may or may not have gathered from my awkward poses and goofy faces that I am occasionally a klutzy/awkward person. No? Stop lying... Anyway, I say occasionally because sometimes I have ninja like reflexes that make absolutely NO sense, it's very hit or miss.  I thought I would tempt fate by trying this white on white combination again.

If you follow me on Twitter and listen to my ramblings you might have noticed that it didn't go so well this time around. As luck would have it I got salad dressing all over my top in the middle of the day. Thankfully I was able to save the day with some CVS Instant Stain Remover. It worked like a charm! Unfortunately, I then got black pen on my linen jacket and the stain remover was not as effective. I ended up in the office bathroom scrubbing away like a wash woman and there is still the slightest hint of a black line. Feeling that these things always come in threes I was totally paranoid for the rest of the day and managed to avoid whatever was headed my way, for now... How do you do when wearing white on white? Do you avoid it or embrace it?

• Top: white short sleeve sweater, LOFT (same shirt different color here, here, here and here); white linen blazer, Bitten via Steve & Barry's
• Bottom: brown knit pants, New York & Company
• Shoes & Accessories: silver Stella wedge pumps, Seychelles via DSW; shell hoop earrings, Charming Charlie/gift from Cousin V; 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, here, here, here, here, here, here, here, here, and here.

June 5, 2012: How To Incorporate Color Into Your Work Wardrobe

If you asked me what colors I thought personified summer I would say orange/coral and turquoise. Those three two colors just scream sun kissed fun in the sun to me. One of the things that I have been trying to do with them is incorporate them into my work wardrobe in fun and appropriate ways. While little pops of color are always most appropriate in very corporate environments, I think this outfit might push the envelope a bit... or maybe I'm just totally paranoid about dressing for work. After thinking about it here are a few tips and tricks I have under my belt for bringing more color into my (work) life:

• Neutral + Pop Of Color - One of the easiest and least jarring ways to accomplish the goal of incorporating bright colors into a work wardrobe is by including small amounts of color in a largely neutral or basic outfit. And this rule applies  The easiest way to do this is with jewelry but, really any small amount of color thrown in there does the trick!

• Nail It - If you can't reconcile wearing bright colored clothing or accessories in the office then maybe you can get on board with polishing your nails in a stand out shade. This is a good first step for those who might have an aversion to color generally.   

• One Focal Point - It is also easier to wear a bright color when you create one point to focus on so, instead of wearing multiple eye catching pieces you just wear one and anchor your look with that. It could be a a simple shirt, a piece of jewelry, or a pair of shoes... whatever works for you.
  

• Fun shoes/Fun tights - I feel like this tip might be a little trickier to pull off especially when it comes to tights. People might do a double take if you are wearing some killer shoes in an eye catching color but, probably not think twice about it. However, Tights occupy alot more space on your body, naturally and draw significant attention. Purple and teal are normally safe bets. Get ready for the comments either way!

And now onto what I wore... I guess with this outfit I combined a few all of the rules but, as we know I'm not afraid of color. I think overall it's still work appropriate but, bright and perfect for the summer. How do you incorporate color into your work wardrobe?

• Top: orange crochet embellished shirt, LOFT (same shirt different color here, here, here, here and here); beige blazer, Tahari via Loehmanns (part of this suit)
• Bottom: gray pants, New York & Company
• Shoes & Accessories: turquoise peep toe flats, xhiliration for Target; turquoise and silver earrings, Pennyweights; 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, here, here, here, here, here, here, here, here, here, and here.

April 5, 2012: Impromptu Girls Night Out

Today is my Friday and I am so excited! What are my big plans for tomorrow? O, nothing just hanging out because my office is closed! I have some personal errands to run but, it’s ok because there is all the time in the world all day to take care of them. Did I mention my excitement? Yeah… The temptation to wear skinny pants and a comfy, flowy shirt was overwhelming but, I resisted. After all, I am trying to be the most professional me that I can be!

What I was most excited for was 5:00. I have been doing things after work pretty much every night this week so far and am excited to head home and take it easy! What ended up happening was something totally different but, isn't that always the way? Some of my co-workers were meeting up at a place really close to my house so I decided to join them for a bit which turned into longer... good times! Do you have any fun plans for this holiday weekend?

• Top: aqua dolman sleeve top, Old Navy with a tank top underneath for the modesty; black safari jacket, LOFT (same jacket different color here, here, here, here, here, here, here, here and here )
• Bottom: gray pants, New York & Company
• Shoes & Accessories: black pointy toe flats, Audrey Brooke via DSW; gray shell earrings, gift from BF’s parents; silver watch, Fossil; 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.

June 10, 2010

Is it Friday yet? I am having so much fun with Summer Black-Out 2010 but, can't wait for the weekend. In the spirit of weekends, summer, and all around fun times I'll give you some random news. Today is National Iced Tea Day! Click here for a buy one get one free Snapple coupon to celebrate...

On another note, I just realized that I am pairing pink and blue together today like Frances Joy of A Mad Dress Game did yesterday, great minds!

• Top: pink embellished t-shirt, Van Heusen outlet (same shirt different color here, like I said Tuesday I'm all about buying multiples)
• Bottom: brown knit pants, New York & Company
• Shoes & Accessories: silver hard wear embellished flats, Preview via Nordstrom Rack; Tiffany & Co. silver bead earrings; blue Foley + Corrina City Clutch via Plaza Too

May 12, 2010

Day three of Dress Your Best Week is cold and bleak. I thought it was springtime for sure! But, since I wasn't woken by the sun peering through my window I am now running late... Please come back warm weather!

Today I am featuring my cheekbones which I think is translating more into my face shape. It's the one thing that has stayed pretty constant no matter how my weight has fluctuated and other part of me have changed which I love! I couldn't think of anyway to dress my face up (I don't wear makeup on a daily basis) besides dressing to draw the eye towards it. That has translated into a mute palette with a pop of color. How do you think I did?

• Top: black Thompson Street Caftan, New York and Company/gift from Mom (it's so strange to be wearing something current that I can actually link to) with a purple tank top underneath, for the modesty
• Bottom: gray pants, also New York and Company
• Shoes & Accessories: black Steve Madden pumps (FYI: they are having a sale right now), black Fendi spy bag, gold and mixed metal earrings, gift from my co-worker Natalia/free gift with her purchase from ModCloth

May 3, 2010

Rain, rain go away! I thought it was supposed to be April Showers bringing May Flowers! Dressing for a day like this is so hard because I'm not a huge fan of wellies (either way mine don't fit me, my feet shrunk?!?) and I don't want to cover up like crazy because it is still supposed to be near 80°... How would you dress on a day like this? I could use some pointers because I feel like my outfit is a little uninspired.

• Top: orange embellished t-shirt, New York & Company (similar here) with a tank top underneath for the modesty
• Bottom: plaid pants, Bitten via Steve & Barry's
• Shoes & Accessories: black Rocket Dog sneaker/shoes, V'ta multistone earrings (a gift from one of the great ladies who worked there), blue Foley + Corrina City Clutch via Plaza Too

Work With What You've Got: Pants

As I have said before I am trying not to shop as much and work with what I already have in my closet. For example: my favorite cuffed stretchy pants from New York and Company. Unfortunately there is a problem with these pants (in all colors except black, wierd) when I bought them they fit perfectly but, after a few washes they shrunk and in the strangest way. I can still fit into them no problem but, if I wear the at my waist-ish area they are wayyy too short. At first I had disillusioned myself into thinking that the almost flood length pants were fine the way they were and continued to wear them. After some funny looks from people I realized that I was sooo wrong!

When I noticed my co-worker Patricia wearing the same exact pants that I owned (and was going to donate) I mentioned that she should be careful how she washed them because they were notorious for shrinkage and she nodded knowingly pointing out that fact that she had had the same problem and had taken the cuffs down. I hadn't even noticed her INGENIOUS fix at first glance! So I have decided to undertake that project and I took a few pictures. I think it's going along quite well don't you? When I wash/iron them the fold of the former cuffs won't be as noticable. Thanks Patricia!! This is a perfect example of doing what you can with what you have.

April 26, 2010

First of all, how do you like the new logo/banner? It was made by a very talented and creative design team... my mom and I. And, when I say "my mom and I" I mean I had an idea and she completely bought it to life *thanks mom* with a little technical contribution from me. I think it is pretty amazing and love the fact that it looks a little Jordi Labanda-ish, no? Either way, I hope you enjoy it!

This morning is so gloomy and cold (compartively to the past few days) and it's not helping me want to get ready and leave my warm cozy apartment at all. I think someone should tell Monday that they can't be like this and instead they should be sunny and beautiful so I am more motivated! Now we can come back to reality with today's outfit. Please excuse the random shots, I am still trying to get the timing down... is there something on my face?

• Top: purple 3/4 length sleeve t-shirt, Target
• Bottom: black and white tweed pants, Mandee. Yes, you read correctlyMandee. I have had these pants since high school. I don't know if that's something to be proud of or not but, they still fit and are still appropriate so... I keep them. Thank you business casual prep school!
• Shoes & Accessories: black suede Rocket Dog sneaker shoes, today is just the day for things from high school... V'ta coin pearl necklace, Tiffany silver earrings, and the yellow alley bag

April 5, 2010

Right about now I am very strongly wishing that I had a three day weekend for the Easter holiday like just about everyone I know. It is going to be about 73° and that is great weather for doing anything! Heading into the office is not my idea of a good time but, I gotta bring home some bacon and am getting ready for the day while fighting every urge not to wear yoga pants. Hopefully the day will go by quickly...

• Top: pink Ann Taylor Loft rosette embellished t-shirt
• Bottom: gray pinstripe wide-leg pants(via Kohl's)
• Shoes & Accesories: black pointy toe flats (via DSW), black Fendi spy bag, gray shell earrings (gift from BF's mom)