September 7, 2010: WWW - Great Accessories

For me my wardrobe isn't only about clothes, despite the word's defined meaning. While items of attire are, naturally, the key components of any good look I feel that accessories need to be given equal appreciation! I don't know where I would be without the perfect purse to tote all my bits and bobs in or a chic pair of earrings to make my outfit shine. How many of us would be disoriented while putting looks together without our red, leopard print, or metallic shoes? Or perhaps the perfect necklace to pull the ensemble together!?

Today I salute some of the hardest working accessories by making them work a little more (wait, what?) and highlighting them! First of all there are the ever present (during the summer at least) silver gladiator sandals. You can't go wrong with metallic shoes and these are no exception.  I bought these two years ago and have been wearing them consistently ever since, to the point where they are falling apart! They pull my outfits together when I'm running errands, going to work, and even for a night out at the club on my birthday. Although, I can't keep wearing these come fall I do have some great silver and bronze flats that will stand in nicely, it's all about the metallic!

The next accessory that works it are my super classic and simply elegant silver bead earrings from Tiffany & Co. They were a gift from BF and I have definately gotten good use out of them. I mean how could you go wrong with basic silver earrings and from Tiffany's to boot? Yeah, I don't know either... They have made it work for special meetings, everyday work, casual things, and any other occasion that might need a little shine. I think the sandals and these earrings compliment each other well and make this whole get up (as well as many others) work from head to toe, literally!

I saved the best for last! I've mentioned before that handbags are my favorite accessory! I have so many (not quite Imelda Marcos [of bags]... I can dream) but, there are a few that I just keep coming back to because they work so well with everything. One of these is my yellow alley bag. Considering how much I use it (one of the zippers just broke) and the fun story that I can tell every time someone compliments me on it, I think it is one of the best purchases I have ever made! It is spacious and utilitarian but, any bag that gives a nice contrasting pop of color is a must for me... I can't wait to share more of my wardrobe workers with you, this is a great challenge!

• Top: blue and white polka dot shirt, Old Navy 
• Bottom: khaki bermuda shorts, GAP outlet
• Shoes & Accessories: silver gladiator sandals, Isaac Mizrahi for Target (similar and on sale here); silver bead earrings, Tiffany & Co.; chunky cluster statement necklace, LOFT (similar here); yellow alley bag. 

April 28, 2010

Do you like the new picture background? I moved to another spot in my hallway, super exciting!!! It's still a work in progress... One day I will take fantastic pictures but, practice makes perfect and today is not that day.

The sun is peeking it's head out and even though it's still cold I'm feeling excited about not being head to toe covered up. Time for capris! Sadly, I think part of the reason that my outfit doesn't look ah-mazing in this mediocre picture is because the items of clothes are a little big on me, especially the shirt. I thought I weeded all those items out of my closet... I guess not. This shirt might need to go in the donation bag when I get home.

I am trying to find similar and affordable versions of what I am wearing because not many items from my wardrobe are currently in stores now since the whole point of this is to not buy (a ton) of new clothes. Is that something that interests you? Leave me a comment and let me know.

• Top: aqua wrap shirt, New York and Company with white tank top under (for the modesty)
• Bottom: brown plaid capris, New York and Company (similar-ish here)
• Shoes & Accesories: bronze ballet flats, Me Too via DSW (similar here); chunky multi stone necklace, picked up at a local jewelry store (similar here); yellow alley bag (similar *vegan option* 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 14, 2011: Everybody, Everywhere is Loving Lace

I haven't participated in alot of these Everybody, Everywear things but, I am going to try to stay more on top of it. There is another reason besides my bad timing; I haven't really been super into everything they have selected. I'm only going to wear things that I like on my body and already have in my closet. Today, I can definitely get on board with lace. I don't think it's the easiest thing to wear in an everyday capacity but, when it's done well it's really lovely, I can't wait to see what Everybody, Everywear comes up with!

• Top: teal corsage embellished t-shirt, Merona via Target (not to be confused with this one) with a tank top underneath for the modesty
• Bottom: gray lace skirt, Tara Jarmon for Target
• Shoes & Accessories: silver cutout flats, Merona via Target; silver bead earrings, Tiffany & Co.; yellow alley bag

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

February 22. 2011: Losing My Touch?

In my extreme sense of tired after this long weekend I decided to pick an outfit that was safe easy and wear a suit yesterday. I'll be honest I almost feel like I'm copping out. Don't get me wrong, it's a lovely suit that has some really beautiful floral details (note to self take close up pictures next time) but, it's just... a suit. There were no colorful tights or crazy shoes to spice it up. The closest I got was a little pop of color in the shirt which worked nicely with the little flecks of color in the tweed (note to self seriously take close up pictures next time) but, that isn't much. I can't help but, feel that this new office culture is sucking the creativity out of me in terms of getting dressed. Or maybe it's just that I don't want people to think I'm crazy or color blind right off the bat. What do you do to spice it up when you feel like you're in a wardrobe funk?

• Top: blue short sleeved sweater, Ann Taylor Loft (same shirt different color here and here); brown tweed jacket with floral details, George via Unique Thrift Store
• Bottom: brown tweed skirt with floral details, George via Unique Thrift Store
• Shoes & Accessories: gray pumps, Steve Madden; pearl earrings, birthday gift from Mom a few years ago; beige pantyhose, No Nonsense via Stop and Shop; yellow alley bag

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

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November 8, 2010: Happy Monday

Happy Monday! It seems a bit backwards that I am in such a positive mood considering the grayness caused by a nor'easter (hence the clenched fists and wind blown hair in my pic, it's cold!) that my tri-state area is dealing with today. If there was any way to keep you in the Monday doldrums yucky weather would be it but, I am feeling fine. Maybe it's these fun tights...

In the spirit of practicality I have decided to wear my awesome new rain boots again. I definitely feel like Erin from Work With What You've Got; Cute dress, fun socks, and kick ass boots, an excellent combination for whoever is sporting it! 

Lastly to all the brave souls who are taking part in Kendi's 30 for 30 challenge. I wish you the best of luck! I'm definitely making it sound more dramatic than it really is... you'll all do great! Every time it comes up I think about doing it but, I can't bring myself to jump on board. I am already remixing the heck out of my wardrobe and to limit it so extremely seems insurmountable. Sorry my flair for drama is getting away from me again. Bad flair! Come back... 

• Top: black lace dress, H&M via Unique Thrift Shop/gift from Mom with a tank top underneath for the modesty 
• Shoes & Accessories:  Regal black rain boot, courtesy of Cougar; purple tights, Duane Reade; gray shell earrings, gift from BF's mom; yellow alley bag

October 27, 2010: What's Black and White and Red All Over?

That would be me. This is one of my favorite color combinations, a total classic! Sometimes I feel like I'm not being as creative when I rely on something so tried and true but, just can't help it... it totally works. What are you favorite color combinations?

• Top: white crochet neck top, LOFT (same shirt different color here, here, and here)
• Bottom: black knit pants, New York and Company
• Shoes & Accessories: faux patent leather red flats, American Eagle for Payless (same shoe different color here); silver bead earrings, Tiffany & Co.; yellow alley bag

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

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October 26, 2010: A Day Late, A Dollar Short

Sorry for the delay. I am still having trouble acclimating to the CA/NY time difference. I'm sure I'll get back into my groove soon enough but, for the rest of this week I am going to be featuring the day before's outfit... what can I say? Life happens but, it should even out.

Yesterday I was focusing on comfort over everything. As I'm getting used to taking these outdoor pictures I followed a bit of advice from JoAnn of Sidewalk Chalk about posing in pictures, one foot in front of the other (life lessons people, life lessons) I need some balance before I attempt that again, I almost went down.

• Top: blue ruffled blouse, Atelier via Loehmanns; tank top underneath for the modesty
• Bottom: brown knit pants, New York and Company
• Shoes & Accessories: silver hardware embellished flats, Preview via Nordstrom Rack; labradorite necklace, V'ta Jewelry; labradorite earrings, Pennyweights; yellow alley bag

Items from this outfit are previously seen here and here:

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September 27. 2010: I've Got Lace

 

First of all I just wanted to say a special thanks to these ladies who indicated that they would be joining me (in one way or another) and shopping their closet for fall trends, don't forget to check out the looks that they come up with!

• Melanie - Unravelled Threads
• Frances Joy - Mad Dress Game
• Marilou - 20 York Street

One of the things that I really wanted this fall was a lace top but, as stated before, I am really trying not to spend money on anything unnecessary which that shirt became when I remembered that I have this awesome lace skirt. It's been a while since I wore it (it's a little big) but, that's what the whole idea behing this challenege (and this blog) is! Is lace one of the fall trends that you are excited to style?

• Top: blue short sleeved sweater, Ann Taylor Loft (same shirt different color here and here)
• Bottom: gray lace skirt, Tara Jarmon for Target
• Shoes & Accessories: black patent leather t-strap pumps, Ann Taylor Loft; black beaded necklace from a craft space in Laguna Beach; black onyx earrings, V'ta; yellow alley bag

 

Items from this out are previously seen here:

 

 

September 17, 2010: Stripes and Flowers

Sorry for the late post. It really has been quite a week and this is the earliest chance I got to let you see my outfit today. The sad thing is it isn't over; I have to go to work tomorrow (yes, I know... it's Saturday) then it's my grandmother's 89th birthday celebration (Happy Birthday Mamá!) and some birthday gift shopping with BF for his little cousin (she's turning 16 and I'm thinking a little blue box might be in order) But, I digress... As I have discovered this week stripes go with EVERYTHING so, I decided to keep it going today by layering a long sleeved striped t-shirt under a short sleeved flower patterned one... I think it translated well to casual friday.

• Top: floral print t-shirt, Vera Wang for Kohl's; black and white striped long sleeved t-shirt, Proenza Schouler for Target 
• Bottom: Marisa jeans, LOFT
• Shoes & Accessories: purple suede-ish ballet flats, Mossimo for Target; yellow alley bag

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

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September 16, 2010: Stripes and Stripes

In this impromptu pattern mixing theme week I have tried polka dots, stripes, florals, and plaid. I think it's been going well! Each day I get a little more comfortable putting together outfits that I would normally consider out of that zone. You know... the one of comfort? Anyway, one thing that I have realized (and maybe I'm the last one) is that stripes are the universal pattern mixer, they go with EVERYTHING!! Originally, I was thinking of pairing this navy and white shirt with a polka dot skirt but, it's another early day and these pants are super comfy. Which left me with a new connundrum: what pattern to mix with this top? How about more stripes? I think it works perfectly, don't you?

• Top: navy and white striped hoodie, GAP outlet; navy tank top with silver stripes (for the modesty), GAP
• Bottom: black really skinny pants, GAP/gift from BF
• Shoes & Accessories: silver cut-out flats, Merona for Target (similar and on sale here); my abuela's vintage silver hoop earrings; yellow alley bag

Items from this outfit are previously seen and remixed here:

August 27, 2010: Third Time's A Charm

I was hoping to keep the outdoor picture thing going but, BF woke up late and had to rush out the door leaving me photographer-less. I'm all for independence and doing it myself but, traipsing downstairs with my tripod during the morning rush seems like a bit much or, maybe I'm just lazy... Either way, back to the hallway! I am so ready for the weekend, can't you tell?

• Top: teal zipper trim top, Mossimo via Target/gift from BF. I think it's a little long but, I couldn't resist the zipper detail! It reminds me of one of my fav Project Runway looks... Jeffrey where did you go?; tank top underneath for the modesty
• Bottom: denim jeggings, LOFT birthday gift from Mom
• Shoes & Accessories: bronze sandals with genuine stone embellishments, bo'em via DSW; tiger's eye earrings, Citygirl Accessories; yellow alley bag

Items from this outfit are previously seen here and here:

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August 4, 2010: Endless Possibilities

One of the reasons why I love the summer (besides the warmth and sun neither of which are happening today) is the simple yet chic wardrobe choices. It is so easy to create a perfect summer outfit by throwing on one or two basic pieces, jazzing them up with metallic accessories, and going on your merry way.

This dress does it all with it's lack of zippers or buttons (I literally threw it over my head) and embellished collar AKA attached necklace! All I have to do is grab my purse, shoes, and earrings and I am on my way. This dress also works because althought I am wearing it for work right now I could easily change/add some accessories and make it work for drinks after, a night out with friends, date night, a special event... almost anything else you can think of!

• Top:  blue floral dress with metallic bead embellishment, LOFT borrowed from Mom
• Shoes & Accessories: silver gladiator sandals, Isaac Mizrahi for Target (similar and on sale here); silver bead earrings, Tiffany & Co.; yellow alley bag

July 23, 2010: Friday Finally

It's back to normal today. No makeup or contacts (did you guys even notice?) just plain old me in my casual friday best, complete with pejorative eyesight and "natural beauty." I still have no idea what the weekend might entail but, I am pumped for it to start! Do you have any fun plans?

Don't forget, I will be "drawing" the winner of the silver and smoky quartz necklace tonight! Good luck to everyone who entered...

• Top: teal tank top, Old Navy with another tank top underneath for the modesty and layering fun!
• Bottom: trouser jeans, GAP outlet
• Shoes & Accessories: purple flip flops, Bitten via Steve & Barry's; coin pearl necklace, V'ta; coin pearl earrings, borrowed from mom then altered; yellow alley bag; multicolor polka dot scarf, New York and Company (not pictured)

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

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Last Chance! Don't forget to enter the giveaway!

June 24, 2010: Friday For Me!

Today is my Friday, YAY! What else says Friday but, not really Friday better than a walking short? I know I couldn't think of anything else either.

• Top: shirt/vest combo thing from Mom via Kohl's (I wore the matching skirt here)
• Bottom: black bermuda shorts, dear for Steve & Barry's
• Shoes & Accessories: faux patent leather red flats, American Eagle for Payless (same shoe different color here); my abuela's vintage silver hoop earrings; yellow alley bag
  
  

June 23, 2010: From The Office

I was literally running out the door to work this morning so I am updating "on location" from my office. Posting was not one of the things I got to finish before I had to leave. I lost track of time while wrapping BF's anniversary gift this morning because I can't think of any other time to get that done. We are leaving the day after tomorrow and I have a million and one things to do before we're off (and actually get out of town, YAY!) How does that always seem to happen?

• Top: ivory t-shirt with beaded rosette detail, Merona for Target
• Bottom: blue, brown, black, and ivory pattern skirt, New York & Company
• Shoes & Accessories: silver gladiator sandals, Isaac Mizrahi for Target (similar here); Tiffany & Co. silver bead earrings; yellow alley bag

Items from this outfit are previously seen here:

June 22, 2010: Planning My Escape

It's official! I just got some requested vacation days approved so BF and I are going away for a long weekend this Friday!! We booked our hotel last night and I am counting down the days/hours/minutes until we jump in the car and head down to the shore. It won't be anything super fancy or lengthy but, it's nice to get out of the city and spend time together relaxing and celebrating our million and a half (six and a half) year anniversary!

• Top: brown v-neck t-shirt with a (teal) tank top underneath for the modesty
• Bottom: beige tweed Ann Taylor Loft skirt via Mom who thrifted
• Shoes & Accessories: silver gladiator sandals, Isaac Mizrahi for Target (similar here); my abuela's vintage silver hoop earrings; yellow alley bag

Items from this outfit are previously seen here: