Match Maker: Shoe And Dress Edition
November 18, 2010
Once upon a time I had a phase where if I could find the matching color shoe to an outfit- it was mine. No question about it. Many years have passed since that time and I must admit I have been following a trend of classic black shoes- gorgeous and interesting shoes, but primarily your classic tones.
So as time passed and I moved, my various colored shoes were placed into boxes and forgotten until now. Sad but true. I discovered this adorable frilly dress from TokyoFashion on yesstyle.com and had to have it. I wasn’t sure how I would wear it, but you always find a way to make it work. It was then I remembered that I had a pair of shoes this *exact* color. I’m not going to lie, I got excited. So like a crazy person I went through my boxes and found the shoes! I actually found them on the first try, I’m proud of myself for that. I cannot even remember where I got them… but they needed to be worn again! This dress is the perfect match.
Flutter-Sleeve Ruffle Chiffon Dress
I know it is winter and that pastels are the color of spring, but I must admit I like the contrast. I like to be a little different in my own way. Also, I cannot resist an outfit that makes me feel like a “doll”. Colors still work in the winter, they just have to be done in the right way. I think mixing up spring colors with the contrast of winter make up and accessories can be a fun challenge. It’s not an every day look of winter but it can be done. Colors I think really work in the winter, especially right now, would be something of a magenta or fushia color. I’m on the hunt for more dresses and shoes that pop with the right kind of color. There’s something that is just so beautiful about it, and makes everyday items look higher end.
I like reinventing looks within my closet. And I love how some of my favorite items can survive the trends of all the seasons. Right now color is on my mind. It will work for the current season and be ready for our spring and summer collections. Thus, you don’t have to feel guilty about a shoe or dress that can only be worn once, and now.
I challenge you to revisit some old favorites in your closet. Find something new to give the old item a new life. We all have treasures even we are unaware of. Go find yours!
Party Dress Obsession: Bijou-Girl
October 29, 2010
I took a risk. Really. This is something I normally wouldn’t do but I couldn’t resist. After all, if I waited I would have missed my chance and really been mad. I took a risk and came out more victorious than I had hoped. Such a win.
What was the risk you ask? The risk was purchasing multiple form fitting dresses from a designer I had never tried before. When it comes to fitted designs- its a huge hit or miss. The designs were beautiful, and if they would fit then I would want them all. I bought three and all I can say is wow am I ever happy!
Enter two beautiful dresses that just scream take me to a party. I am in love with BIJOU-GIRL! These dresses fit like an absolute dream. They are comfortable, and look amazing on. Definitely head turners. What’s nice is that they all have built in bra cups that are very comfortable and flattering. They also have a style in the back that acts like an elastic- thus you will have a form fitted style every time. It contours to your body perfectly. Gorgeous!
These two designs couldn’t be further apart in appearance or personality, but they are both to die for. The first is an adorable polka dot dress that is great for day time outside events or even a fun cocktail hour with the girls. Everything you do in this dress feels adorable!
I found BIJOU-GIRL on yesstyle.com where I do all of my shopping. You can be certain I’ll be going back for more from this designer. I’m really excited! You know how it is when you find something that fits fabulously, is comfortable, and looks one of a kind amazing. That’s where I am right now.
View This POLKA DOT Dress from BIJOU-GIRL on yesstyle.com
You can see in this next photo with the side view how the back stretches to fit you just right. With a beautiful bow in the front- how can you not help but smile? It’s cute!
Alright! From cute… we head on over to sexy! Both are head turners, just different personalities and styles. This next dress also from BIJOU-GIRL is one I fell in love with more in person than I did online. I thought it had potential when I saw it online, but the second I tried it on it became an instant favorite. It has that wow-factor written all over it.
It’s the little black dress with a sultry attitude- especially given the sheer mid-section design.
View This Sheer-Accent Strapless Cocktail Dress From BIJOU-GIRL on yesstyle.com
Yeah. It’s killer.
This one doesn’t have the back design, but the material stretches comfortably to your form. There’s no being shy with this one! It does have built in bra cups which I am thinking is a standard for Bijou-Girl. Normally I would stay away from such things but I like how they have implemented them. The placement is perfect and it makes it a no-worries dress. This means you don’t have to worry about the top sliding down or slightly revealing your bra *the worst*!
You can get ready in seconds and look briliant.
Cute and adorable? Sexy and vamp? Oh, yes. And more look in between. They have some elegant standards as well as some quirky cute pieces that are sure to get you noticed!
Shoe Lust: Heels To Fall For
May 6, 2010
I’ve been doing a little window shopping which somehow always leads me to finding new shoes. Ones to dream about, ones to match dresses to, and then ones that amaze you in price. At least that has been the case for me. Wow, have I found some killer heels that are no-guilt when it comes to meeting your budget!
FIRST: The Under $50
KVOLL is a brand that is new to me on yesstyle.com. I just ordered a pair (not pictured here, I want to surprise you when they come in!) to get a feel for their style and quality. Now, for the price they are currently listed at… it is pretty impossible to resist. They are adorable! I’ll let you know what I think once my shoes arrive. Right now, I’m just excited about the look of them.
You can find out more about each shoe pictured in this post by clicking the image of the shoe. Prices are always subject to change but at the time of writing this post, the two shown above are only $35. Yep!
COCOEVE is a brand I have purchased from in the past with wonderful results. Their darling and fashion forward designs have always caught the attention of shoe admirers when I am wearing them. The shoes pictured just above and below are both from Cocoeve. Aren’t they fabulous?
The ones above are prefect for any occasion, and the gold chains add an extra fabulous factor. The color tone is soft and elegant, but the design gives it that extra it factor.
The red little darlings below have me going “awe” each time I look at them. I just purchased a darling little red dress and I keep thinking these shoes, with their cute little bow, would be an adorable combination.
Okay! Next up….
The Over $50 and Under $100
Just in the next price level, these are shoes that have that dream-like quality.
MIZ SHOES: First of all, love the color. I’ve been getting more dresses in this exact shade even. The design is dainty and feminine and has that high fashion look. It reminds me of something that would have just stepped off the runway. These are beautiful, and they also come in black. Black may be a classic, but I vote for the color on this one.
STYLEKELLY: Keeping in the feel of spring and summer, these are a pretty and girlie and elegant shoe for any lady of fashion. The ruffles are eye catching but not over the top, and the dainty bow is just precious. I like the color here as it is perfect for the nude and lighter shade dresses. A floral dress could go great here, too. I’m loving the look of these!
LA FRESHA: From pretty and delicate to bold and fierce, these heels let people know you are serious! I have many shoes from LA FRESHA in my closet and wear them regularly-they are comfortable, look fabulous, and so far have been holding up well. I can wear my shoes pretty hard from time to time, so something that can keep up with me is important.
This has a gladiator or armor type look to them. They are unique and definitely statement makers. Color wise they stay to a simple black with gold accents, but look at this design. An elegant toe and then an edgy ankle, what a combination. I really like the way the ankle cuff is large and fitted, but also has a large cut in the back so it doesn’t swallow up your ankle completely. You want the skin to show to keep the form flattering. This is a serious shoe I have my eyes on- love it!
Ah… I love looking at shoes. Well these are the ones giving me new inspirations; I’ll be sharing some of my recent favorites I’ve been wearing with you over the next week. Stay tuned!
*photos taken from yesstyle.com for commenting purposes; yesstyle is a sponsor of this site.
A Walk In Wonderland
April 17, 2010
There are some things I simply cannot resist, like channeling my childhood love of fashion! Alice in Wonderland is a favorite of mine and I adore anything that resembles something of the story or makes me think of it. It is an inspirational source for me.
So when I spotted this dress on yesstyle.com it was an absolute must. Sometimes you just have to have fun and go for it. It makes me feel ready for a tea party where the dormouse might show up (it even inspired me to bring out an old toy from childhood, ha).
THE DRESS:
JESSICA BROOKE: Ruffle Bib Pleated Dress
Available on YESSTYLE.com
Okay, it isn’t your everyday casual dress, but so what. Sometimes you have to do something just because you want to and it makes you smile. This dress could also be worn in an editorial style with a nice elegant updo, but I wanted to keep it young and fresh. The ruffles are adorable and the fit is feminine but fun. It is also available in black which is a more gothic look, but also opens plenty of opportunities for fun styling.
For me, this dress is a reward to my childhood love and bringing in with fashion. What are some of your childhood loves and how do you incorporate them into your style?
If an outfit is too daring, there is always the subtle but still fun approach of accessories (just like this one: darling bunny and flower earrings that are simply adorable).
Pretty In Pink For Spring
April 2, 2010
Spring is here and pastels have returned to style. Nudes and light pink shades are especially very nice this season. My latest find is a very pink and girlie number that is… well, as girlie as it gets! With a beautiful mix of textures, layers, and even a beautiful pair of shoes to match- this is a spring feminine dream.
DRESS: SHY SHY Set-Sequined Tulle Camisole + Satin Tulle Hem Slipdress
SHOES: STYLE LINE Open-Toe Platform Stilettos
Both these pieces are available from YESSTYLE. The shoes are available in a few different colors, and as tempting as the classic black pumps are, I had to go for the pink and push the girlie factor with this whimsical dress.
Just look at all the elements going on here. Sequins, satin, a frilly skirt and mix of textured layers all come together with the single light pink color base. The shoes keep the color a solid look and add an extra girlie touch with a heart shaped charm. With girlie numbers like this, spring has a lot to offer us this year.
These shoes have a nice cushioned feel to them and the design is very playful. Color aside, check out the detail of this zipper design and heart shaped charm finish:
A classic high heeled peep-toe shoe gets a whole new look with a zipper accenting line and charm in the back. In any color, these shoes rock!
I actually have a few pink dresses and tops in the same shade and am looking forward to matching them with my new heels. But this dress takes the show, it’s just darling and perfect!
What colors are grabbing you this spring?
A Night Of Wonderland At The Theatre
January 22, 2010
I must first begin this entry by stating how lucky and grateful I am. My hunny is the most amazing man in the world, and always filled with surprises. Last night was not only a treat but also a complete surprise!
I had no idea of the plans he made. Only as we were leaving for a cigar event did he mention I should consider a nice dress since we “may have other places to be” this evening. Wow, I love this man. So without the slightest idea of what would be going on, I dressed up in a favorite of mine: a floral pink dress from BCBG. I paired the dress with my suede GIVENCHY shoes of the same color, put on some pearls and I was ready to go.
We attended a lovely cigar event, socialized and enjoyed our time until suddenly it was apparently time to leave. We left the event early and made our way into town. At this point I still didn’t have the slightest idea where we were going, and I loved that. I didn’t want to even try to guess, I was just enjoying the experience. There’s nothing like the feeling of siting back, relaxing, and just observing every moment as you make the journey to what you know will be a great and welcoming surprise. You know it will be good, you just don’t know what it will be.
Finally we parked and walked our way through downtown. Again, still at this point I haven’t an answer to our evening, just that it is a fabulous one. We make our way to the steps of the theatre and I see the banner posted above, “Wonderland.”
Now, if you know me by now you know that Alice In Wonderland is my all time favorite tale. I love the writings of Lewis Carroll, and I absolutely adore going out to the theatre. Ballets, operas, the symphony, plays, you name it I adore it. What a delightful surprise.
Now this isn’t the traditional story, more of a modern styled performance and take. I am very traditional but I can appreciate new perspectives and it was an entertaining night. The seats were wonderful, the performers were fantastic, and the costume design was gorgeous.
This is the first version of the production and I am very happy to have been able to see it so early. Changes are made as shows continue in later productions as they decide what works and what needs to be transformed. I didn’t even know there was a production of Wonderland being made or that it was being played in our city. My hunny made an amazing surprise for me with this, what a perfect evening! I am still tickled about it. Yay!
Best unbirthday present ever 
I ♥ Lace: A Fashion Obsession, Part II
December 27, 2009
The beauty of lace is that there are so many ways to wear it: from accessories like hair decorations, gloves, purses and scarves to dresses and tights making an outfit truly stand out.
In my last lace obsessed post I was playing with the idea of lace tights to add more texture and style to your fashion. With the winter trend of thigh high boots, patten tights fit just right in creating a bold and sexy style.
Black is classic and elegant and works lovely with winter’s charm. Later on in the spring nude and white lace may add a soft but playful factor for us to look forward to. But back to the season at hand and how we can have fun with our style.
I have been experimenting with lace quite a lot lately- and not just how it can redesign shoes. Take for instance using lace as a layer and foundation for your existing wardrobe. A long sleeve laced top goes a long way when worn under the right dress or tank top. It is the perfect selection for updating your entire wardrobe, giving old pieces a new feel in an instant. If you want to take lace even further then consider a piece such as this lucky find: A Lace Trim Jumpsuit from TIAN MU.
What I like about this selection is that not only is it one-of-a-kind, it is also all once piece. Well, one piece save for the black tube top underneath. If you have a unique tank top you can play with the lines of the design even more. But this once piece with the casual shorts and lace collar, front, and sleeves creates a simple look that is not to be ignored.
Because it is a single piece it leaves plenty of room for accessories- from vests to belts to playful jewelry pieces. I like the outfit on its own honestly, but I also look forward to reinventing the look over and over again. I’ve been thinking of playing with belts, skinny to “wow” factor big, and different undergarments first. Maybe even a colorful long sleeve top underneath to add a new flair. There’s plenty of ideas available and this very unique outfit will have a different feel each time I wear it because of all these options.
TIAN MU has lots of other great styles which have caught my eye, many of them playing with lace in different ways, too. From baby doll dresses to leggings, there’s lots of great ideas and inspirations to be found.
Click Here to view more from Tian Mu and find some fashion inspirations (or obsessions!) of your own.
Bigger Bows For An Adorable Updo
November 13, 2009
When it comes to accessories I love items that are bigger than life. Oversized sunglasses, handbags (to a certain limit of course), watches, rings, and bows. Something about the contrast appeals to me, and I love a challenge when incorporating them into my wardrobe.
The instant I saw this bow I knew it was mine- how I would wear it I did not know.
So this morning when I was putting my hair into a side swept updo, something felt missing. There was a bit more space than I had intended on having, and the updo seemed to tight and clean. Not neccessarily a bad thing, just not the look I was going for. Enter the bow. What a perfect finish- it is whimsical, adorable, black and elegant. The cute factor with the heart, designs, and enormous size fit in perfectly. I love it.
One side is very smooth and clear while the other is a collection of soft textures wraped in place by the giant bow. The silhouette it creates is a unique one with lots of character. I love the angles and feminine cute feel that comes from it.
It’s hard not to feel adorable when you have a bow this big in your hair. Even though one side is light and clear and the other is heavy and textured, the balance remains as each side gives a glimpse into the other. It plays of each other just right creating a uniformed look.
I think I’ll be incorporating this ridiculously large bow into more of my updos, giving elegance a playful and cute twist.
How Do You Wear Your Stripes?
November 3, 2009
Stripes can be tricky to wear as they can make a very bold statement. They can also very quickly go overboard! It is important to keep your colors and patterns in balance so that they compliment your overall look rather than make you look like the battlefield.
This is a cute dress from dodostyle that has a connected striped long sleeved top. It is all one complete piece- and well thought out at that. The sleeves have a slight bell shape at the end with some extra length to really add a nice balancing contrast. Horizontal stripes can make things appear wider, so the extra length goes a long way here to keep that from occurring. Same is true of the volume at the end, that shape adds a very pleasing contrast.
The shoes in this case are a subtle touch to balance out the top with the bottom. I normally don’t think of these straps as stripes, but when put into perspective with a piece like this, it works together very nicely.
The solid color of the black looks beautiful and whimsical against the vivid stripes. The shape of the black portion of this dress is very clean and simple with feminine lines. The bottom bubbles out in the same manner of the sleeves, making them look like they belong. It adds another dynamic into the volume- from fitted to bubbled, in a very complimentary style.
And did I mention cozy? I love sleeves that are longer than me, something about them makes me feel like a child all cuddled up. All of my dresses from Dodostyle are cozy like that. Not necessarily from the sleeves, but from the material. They all have very nice fits and make me feel like I’m wrapped in a blanket. Also, their styles are incredibly adorable! Yet another beauty from YES STYLE, every item I have ordered from them demands attention anywhere I go. It is how I wear my style, and in this piece, my stripes.
How do you wear your stripes?
