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

Summertime Scandal

I know you're shocked, I am wearing white after Labor Day... I am a rebel! You might have gleaned from my post yesterday that I am a firm believe in the fact that summer doesn't actually end until the official end not, Labor Day. Just because everyone goes back to school and summer Fridays end in the office (if you, unlike me, get that amazing benefit) doesn't mean that there's not still fun in the sun to be had and white to be worn. Besides that is a vintage fashion rule instituted by high society back in the day and what credence does that hold over us? That's right, we're all rebels to those snobby ladies of the past!

As rebellious as I am being with all my white I felt that this outfit was a little more work appropriate than what I was wearing on Monday Tuesday when I cam back from the long weekend. Not a T-shirt? Awesome. Not Sandals? Bonus! While neither of those items are inherently bad there I definitely feel more polished and put together when I am wearing a more structured shirt or fabulous dress, possibly a cute skirt or trousers, and actual shoes. On top of that, as the weather cools down blazers can again be integrated again and the business casual possibilities are endless but, we're not quite there yet...  

• Top: orange button down shirt, Eddie Bauer via Melissa's closet cleanout
• Bottom: ivory and navy printed skirt, Libertine for Target
• Shoes & Accessories: silver open toe wedges, Seychelles; silver bead earrings, Tiffany & Co.

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

A Favorite Contradiction

This dress is definitely one of my favorites. If I wasn't trying to wear a different ensemble to work everyday for a year you would be seeing more of this dress, for sure. Naturally, as I considered what items to keep, tailor, donate, or sell from my recent closet purge this dress made it's way into the tailoring pile quickly. When the Jason Wu for Target look book came out this was my absolute favorite of all the items out of the few that I was interested in. On top of that fact it was the only item that I could get my hands on when I went to the store. How could I donate or sell something I all but, had to fight for? Obviously, it wasn't even an option.

While we are in the month of September I am still clinging to summer; It is my (favorite) season. The hotter the better... I realize I am in the minority with that sentiment. Pumpkin spice, Halloween decorations, and changing leaves can put a pin in their inevitable decent. Conversely, the one thing I am excited for is to be able to get back to layering things; Blazers? Yay! Sweaters? Wonderful! While this is contradictory to my appreciation for warmer temperatures it is one of the things I appreciate about the fall season. I am a contradiction, wrapped in an enigma but, I digress...This dress would look so cute paired with a blazer, don't you think?

• Top: navy poplin dress, Jason Wu for Target
• Shoes & Accessories: silver peep toe wedges, Seychelles; dangle silver bead earrings, gift from co-worker

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

Delayed

This week is starting out less positively than I had hoped. Who didn't get home until 9:00pm last night? This gal! The sad thing is it wasn't for lack of trying, let me explain.While I departed work at a (quasi) reasonable hour (6:00ish) and met up with Hubby to grab a quick bite and catch the train because our schedules lined up (which is rare) we ended up sitting in a tunnel on a train trying to get home for hours, thanks delays! While I want today to be better than the craziness it's already a bit off, I forgot to set my alarm last night and missed my morning spin class (sad face.) I hope that's isn't indicative of how the rest of the day is going to go.

WE INTERRUPT THIS POST TO BRING YOU ADDITIONAL (Tuesday Morning) TRAIN DELAYS

The aforementioned resulted in my immediately heading to my car and driving to work. Annoying but, not the end of the world. On the other hand, clearly the end of writing that post until now though... I would have been happy to finish it when I got home but, it was 10:00pm (ONLY because I was able to drive home) at that time and I needed to eat dinner, priorities. Also, clothes...

I'm glad that I was wearing something comfortable while I was navigating all the commuting/work difficulties. Capris (and pants in general) are a life saver when it comes to a quick, comfortable, work appropriate ensemble component. Skirts are great (and obviously my preference most of the time) but, sometimes you just want to be able to sit cross legged on the floor of your cubicle to organize things without having to be concerned about modesty. No? O, maybe that's just me.

• Top: black short sleeved sweater, LOFT
• Bottom: beige pinstripe capri pants, New York & Company via Unique Thrift Store
• Shoes & Accessories: black peep toe wedges, Dr. Scholls; black pearl earrings, The International Gem and Jewelry Show

I most recently wore this shirt here.

Child of the Zodiac

This outfit is from yesterday. Yes, I am all over the place with posting but, will be back to normal next week. You'll see...

Is this week eShakti week? That would be fun (and possible now) but, no... but, as I mentioned last month I was tempted at the eleventh hour to purchase some dresses from eShakti. Those coupons and sales are hard to resist! While I was combing through their extensive collection of dresses, skirts, jumpsuits etc. there were a few that I kept coming back to in my attempts to meet my minimum purchase requirements to get the maximum savings. This dress was (obviously) one of them. How fun is this pattern? As a former teenage girl I was immediately drawn to the mystical zodiac symbols, what's your sign?

When I was trying to select the appropriate size to order I was faced with a new challenge. Although eShakti is great and saves all of your measurements when you create an account with them for easy ordering none of the measurements that were saved in their system applied to me anymore. Thanks, less face. I had to bust out the tape measure and determine my new measurements. No biggie except while trying to determine my (newer) size I came to a realization (again) that my body shape is not standard and most of the stock sizes wouldn't fit me even though I now have less face. Thank goodness for affordable customization! The best moment was later when I my order finally came. I opened the package, took out the dress, and thought, "that is really small I totally messed up on the measurements" but, subsequently tried it on and it fit. Have you ordered through eShakti? How has your experience been?

• Top: star signs stripe waist cotton dress, eShakti
• Shoes & Accessories: black peep toes wedges, Steve Madden; black pearl earrings, International Gem and Jewelry Show

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 

White Time

This outfit is from last Thursday, and you thought I forgot... Today it's two for one!

Memorial Day was some time ago and I have not been taking advantage of my new found super power ability to wear white as much as I should/would like. That's going to stop last week now! This skirt has been one of  my "go-to" summer pieces since my college days (not to date myself but, that was a while ago.) It's been an easy item to pair with any most of the tops in my wardrobe and instantly elevate their level of summer appropriateness to "spot on." Bonus: it's super comfy. Unfortunately, my body has changed considerably since then and this might be the last summer that I am able to utilize this skirt. I was (kind of) taking a chance wearing it last week; one good tug and awkward turtle... It's a good thing no one is out there waiting to pants me. 

• Top: teal floral embellished t-shirt, Merona
• Bottom: white skirt, GAP
• Shoes & Accessories: silver peep-toe wedges, Seychelles; silver bead earrings, Tiffany & Co. 

Retro Reminiscent

It's amazing what small changes do to change something as a whole. Example: add hydrogen to oxygen and it makes water. Science. I digress...  the first time I looked at these pants the only thing I could think of was golfing. I would just like to be clear and confess that I am not actually a golfer. Fortunately for me them I have preppy fashion sensibilities because that impression made it a done deal and I had to have them even though they will probably never hit the links.

As I look for items from my (now minuscule) wardrobe to pair them with (in non golfing life) this combo that I ended up with invokes images of a beehive hair-do or perhaps a headband, cat eye sunglasses, and melamine pitchers filled with lemonade at a bygone picnic that never existed in my lifetime. I think it's the shoes. What do picnics have to do with work? Nothing, but, while I am reminded of an older time this is still a professional ensemble for the office especially on a cold summer spring day.

• Top: black cardigan, Merona
• Bottom: tailored crop plaid wool pants, GAP
• Shoes & Accessories: black peep-toe wedges, Dr. Scholl's; black pearl earrings, International Gem and Jewelry Show 

I most recently wore this sweater here.

I'm linking up with Confident Twosdays 

Teacher Dress

I'm sorry for the gap in posts; life happens, as you know. My personal style mission hasn't changed so, I am getting back to it... One of my biggest challenges this week so far was that I, kind of, hated (almost) every outfit that I put together over the weekend. So, instead of being able to post everything in advance, even pictures were taken, I ended up second guessing my ensembles, coming up with new (more awesome) outfits, and taking more pictures. Yes, it was as frustrating as it sounds. Now about those clothes...

This ensemble reminds me of something that a teacher would wear, right? Maybe I just had very fashion forward instructors when I was in school throughout the years. Either way, I was leading some trainings on Monday so, it was a teacher's outfit (technically.) This dress was my first experience with eShakti.com and I'm glad that it still fits (for the most part.) I didn't do much customization the first time around (other than adding pockets) but, the classic style and quality is something to note in the world of fast-fashion that we live in.

• Top: red blue bird printed dress, c/o eShakti.com; gray plaid blazer, Jones New York
• Shoes & Accessories: black peep-toe wedges, Dr. Scholl's; gray labradorite earrings, Pennyweights

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

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

August 15, 2012: Dressing Appropriately

Since I am trying to pick out my clothes ahead of time weather.com has become an integral tool in the process. I have too often made the mistake of forgetting an umbrella, a coat, or generally wearing something completely inappropriate for whatever weather I will be faced with that day. When I was looking at the week ahead (last two weeks ago) everything was looking good except for Wednesday. With rain on the horizon I set aside some comfy and professional pants so I could face the impending precipitation as appropriately as possible.

My biggest struggle was finding shoes that worked with the pants since their length demands I stand a little taller but, I am still on the mend. I decided to take my life ankle into my own hands and wear a pair of shoes with a little heel. I can't say that it horrible but, it was definitely not the best idea. I'll be honest I haven't been giving my ankle the rest and relaxation or stretching that it needs; It's hard when you commute into New York City and work in a busy office; Excuses, excuses... Long story short: don't sprain ankles.

• Top: yellow ruffle collar shirt, LOFT; black blazed, Ann Taylor via Melissa
• Bottom: beige pinstripe trousers, LOFT/gift from BF
• Shoes & Accessories: black peeptoe wedges, Payless; vintage silver hoop earrings, my abuela; 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, here, here, here, here, here, here, here, here, here, here, here, here, here, here, here, here, and here.

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 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.

August 22, 2011: Monday For Real

Last week my Monday was Wednesday and having that shorter week was a fantastic way to keep the vacation vibe going. Unfortunately that couldn't last forever and I am headed back to the office today for a full work week with some social engagements sprinkled in there for good measure!

Tonight I am going to be meeting up with my old college roomie before she heads back to London. I didn't really get to spend a ton of time with here while she was here but, the time we did spend together was absolutely lovely, I'm looking forward to tonight being more of the same. In terms of style I'm glad I have pieces in my closet this dress which can double as a professional work piece by day and a fun happy hour piece by night! 

After the staycation fail and awkward conversation BF said he would put some of the money that we would have spent doing super fun things during our time off but, didn't (thanks weather) twoards beefing up my professional wardrobe. With that in mind I hit Loehmanns and found this awesome Calvin Klein suit. After all the coupons and discounts it was more than $200 off the original retail price, WIN! The one thing I didn't realize about it until this morning was that it has shoulder pads, FAIL. I have pretty broad shoulders as it is so shoulder pads are not a necessary thing; although I'm sure I would have been going crazy with the trend in the 80's had I been old enough. So this jack might need a trip to the tailor AKA my Mom to have them removed. What do you think of the fit?

On another note, since I am a now a Stella & Dot stylist I will be putting adding pieces that I think would be a great match with my daily outfit in each post. There is totally something for everyone and every outfit and this helps me pretend (in my mind) like I actually got to wear this amazing jewelry because I shouldn't can't buy everything for myself... that kind of completely defeats the purpose!

• Top: navy blue jersey knit dress, New York and Company with a tank top underneath for the modesty; gray pinstripe blazer, Calvin Klein via Loehmanns/gift from BF
• Shoes & Accessories:  silver Stella wedge pumps, Seychelles via DSW; Inkwenkwezi Safety Pin necklace, Smithsonian/Christmas gift from Mom; silver bead earrings, Tiffany & Co.; yellow alley bag

My Stella and Dot pick for this outfit:

Astor Five Strand Necklace 

Items from this outfit are previously seen here:

June 29, 2011: Self Inspired

Do you like the progression of curly hair? First day it is down, then half up, then all up. If I don't do something drastic (like wash it) there is going to be some craziness! Or I will just put it up in a ponytail again but, I digress... 

When trying to plan out today's outfit I wasn't really struck with any great ideas until I caught a glimpse of this skirt hanging in my closet. I remembered that fun combo that I wore the other night to go out and thought why not do something similar for today? I could have gone with the same exact thing and just thrown a blazer over it (that is allowed by the rules) but, that would be too easy. Maybe I'll save that for another day... How do you make your weekend looks work for the professional/academic world? Is there even a need for you to differentiate?

• Top: aqua dolman sleeve top, Old Navy with a tank top underneath for the modesty; khaki safari jacket, LOFT (same jacket different color here,here, here, here, and here)
• Bottom: pink and coral polka dots skirt, New York & Company (same skirt different color here)
• Shoes & Accessories: silver Stella wedge pumps, Seychelles via DSW/gift from BF; mixed metal earrings, gift from Natalia/ModCloth; vintage Louis Vuitton speedy, eBay

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

June 8, 2011: Seen This Before, Almost

This is my first foray into wearing a dress that I have already worn before. I did things a little differently this time as per the new rules, how do you think it came out? I think technically there is no repeat... 

• Top: gray shirt dress, New York and Company with a tank top underneath for the modesty
• Shoes & Accessories: black peep-toe wedges, Dr. Scholl's; black belt, from another dress; silver bead earrings, Tiffany & Co.;gray and black purse, Pietro Alessandro 

Items from this outfit are previously seen here:

September 22, 2010: The Right Time

I wanted to wear this dress the minute I got it (yes, I'm one of those people) but, since it was the beginning of August in one of the hottest summers in a while I decided to hold off. The black fabric, sleeves, and high neck definitely helped with that decision. But, now that the weather is cooling down (but, still warm) I excited to liberate it from my closet. Are there any items that you have been holding off on wearing until the weather cools down?

• Top: black dress, Maggy London via Unique Thrift Store/Mom. This was a great find! Maggy London dresses can normally run you anywhere from $100-$200.
• Shoes & Accessories: black peep-toe wedges, Dr. Scholl's; black belt, from these Apt.9 via Kohl's pants; silver bead earrings, Tiffany & Co.;  silver L.A.M.B bag via Loehmann's

August 18, 2010: In The City

Today is my lunch downtown and I think I found a comfy and stylin' dress that is also professional AKA works perfectly in this situation. Plus, I even managed to incorporate a pair of forgotten shoes! Even though I picked out the dress last night my accessories didn't really work out the way I planned so I am still running a little behind. I'll keep this quick.

• Top: Calvin Klein khaki dress, Loehmann's (same dress on the weekend here) 
• Shoes & Accessories: brown suede Prada wedges, DSW; chunky cluster statement necklace, LOFT (similar here); silver bead earrings, Tiffany & Co.; vintage Louis Vuitton speedy, eBay  

August 16, 2010: Make It Work Monday

I think everybody has been where I am this morning... You have an idea in your head but, you just can't make it work out that way. While browsing blogs I noticed that Kendi from Kendi Everyday was wearing the same LOFT skirt that I got for my birthday as a(n exchanged) gift. After that, I was completely inspired and set on wearing the skirt today! While searching through my closet I came up with a few really great outfits but, none that were appropriate for high humidity 85°+ weather. I guess those will appear as the weather gets cooler and this will have to do for today. Do you give up on an outfit when it's not working out like you planned or try to salvage it?

• Top: purple scoopneck sweater, GAP outlet (same shirt different color here and here); tank top underneath for the modesty
• Bottom: ivory and black animal print pencil skirt, LOFT birthday gift from BF's mom
• Shoes & Accessories: black peep-toe wedges, Dr. Scholl's; silver feather headband, LOFT birthday gift from Mom; pearl earrings, birthday gift from Mom a few years ago; silver L.A.M.B bag via Loehmann's

Items from this outfit are previously seen here:

July 30, 2010: Less Casual Friday

As you know I experience the joy that is "casual friday!" Being allowed to wear jeans in the workplace is just another way of recognizing that the weekend is just around the corner, or at least that's what I like to think! But, on this particular Friday I have been slammed with lots of tasks to complete and a morning meeting so the weekend doesn't necessarily seem as close as I would hope.

I know the people that I am meeting with from previous dealings so, the ambiance of the meeting doesn't have to be hyper formal but, I feel like showing up in denim capris and a fun graphic tee is also inappropriate. What's a girl to do? Fancy jeans I think! Normally I don't wear these to work because in my mind it defeats the point of a truly casual friday since they are so long I need to wear heels but, in this case they are perfect for the meeting and they give me another reason to use a pair of forgotten shoes again!

• Top: red floral print top, Old Navy
• Bottom: dark wash trouser jeans, Not Your Daughter's Jeans via Nordstrom Rack
• Shoes & Acccessories: yellow suede wedges, born; silver bead earrings, Tiffany & Co.; purple bag Coach

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

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July 27, 2010: Piece of Cake

I didn't intend on wearing my forgotten shoes in the order that they are listed but, it's kind of working out that way. So far, it has been fairly easy to incorporate them into my wardrobe (knock on wood.) Maybe I was just being complacent before, relying to heavily on the easy combination i.e.: silver gladiator sandals that go with everything. Do you have any "go to" items that make you forsake all others? Either way I'm glad I have pushed myself to make these work with what I have!

• Top: white, blue, and green argyle sweater, Merona for Target (similar and on sale here)
• Bottom: gray pencil skirt, New York and Company
• Shoes & Accessories: yellow suede wedges, born (their shoes are not my thing but, the sandals are fabulous); silver bead earrings, Tiffany & Co.; purple bag Coach

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

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