The Suit Jacket’s Daring Edgy Factor
February 5, 2010
We all know and love the classic suit jacket, with its fitted structure, collar, and buttons. But sometimes we want a more edgy look: something daring, bold, and exciting. Enter in the leggings!
Traditionally a suit-type jacket is worn with matching trousers or a pencil skirt and collared white blouse underneath. It is a classic look. But when you want more of an edgy factor, that same business style garment suddenly opens many more opportunities. This is also a great way to expand your style from the pieces you already have existing in your closet.
Take for instance what I have done here with my gray double-breasted long jacket from BLACK QUEEN and leggings from Peplum, both of which I found on YESSTYLE.com (check out more of their leggings here).
Just a simple classic jacket, great for any occasion paired with some edgy leggings for a daring look.
Rethink your wardrobe and see what creative mixes you can find. And think of your future fashion finds: what new item would reinvent nearly your entire closet, or maybe just some of your favorites? Leggings go a long way from pairing up with dresses, vests, t shirts, and jackets. They also make your shoes look like something new as well.
A traditional styled jacket is great for those classic looks on the formal side, worn with a pair of skinny jeans on the casual side, or worn here with some bold leggings for the edgy side. Remember, a new item doesn’t mean just a new outfit- it means many new possibilities for all of your existing outfits! Expand your style in volumes.
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.
Style Obsession: Boots, Lace, and Bows
December 12, 2009
My latest obsession with boots, lace, and bows comes from my interest (and now inspiration) in thigh high boots. Buckles, lace, ribbon, lace, and leather- I’m all in for it! I love a stylish dream come to life.
For instance, look at the boots at the beginning of this entry. A wow-factor up and beyond; I love it. These boots are from FOXCiTY and are available on yesstyle.com. Unfortunately for me they are no longer available in my size, but this may be a turn of luck for you if you want a pair for yourself: view the FOXCiTY boot details here.
And so lately I’ve been exploring other options for my thigh high boot needs, such as a pair of stylish leggings paired with a unique strappy boot like I did here. But right now my latest obsession is with lace. Everywhere, anyway I can wear it. I’ll show you more examples soon of what I mean by everywhere, right now I can show you the one I’ve been wearing the most: lace tights.
I adore what tights do for an outfit, not to mention the shoes. With a great pattern like this, an outfit takes on a whole new feel. Something that thigh high boots bring to style is texture, and with lace you get that in an instant.
These tights in particular have a nice floral pattern that I think mixes in nicely, keeping it feminine but definitely very bold.
From the lace of a pair of boots, the ribbon wrapping them, to the many options of lace- I am enjoying this fashion season!
And this is only a preview into the lace obsession- details are on the way 
Black On Black Fashion Glamor
October 12, 2009
Black- the classic fashion color for an elegant look. It is complimenting and offers multiple style options- even with the same garments given to a number of people. Each person will wear it differently and give it a new feel. So with winter giving me another chance to play, I decided to go with the black on black layering technique.
Since it is cool, layers are required (especially with my clothes, lol). A long sleeve black shirt and black tights make the foundation- from those two form fitting items, I am able to play with shape and color if I so choose to. Since I am going with black on black, shape is what counts here.
I have this floppy, cozy, sweater-like dress that was just begging to be worn. But with it’s short length and short sleeves, it requires company if it wants to actually be warm. Perfect- just the ingredient I was looking for. Now for some fun with the accessories:
When it is cool outside, I love wearing my bracelets over my long sleeves. Something about it makes them pop, especially when it is silver on black. But even the black on black stands out, the shine from the gems are a subtle and elegant touch. And with a ring to match- beautiful!
Now, because I didn’t want to be completely in black and lost in the shadows… I wanted something to really just pop. What stands out against black more than white, and with yesterday’s theme still fresh in my mind, I knew just the shoes to do it.
I’ve posted about these shoes before, and yet almost had forgotten I had them! Ack, I know.. but they are brand new to me again since finding them, lol. You can see more photos of the shoes from my previous post here: click to view the shoes
Black on black glamor- I’m going to say it’s a fabulous do ;D
Sneak Peak: Elegant Gown & Photo Shoot w/Tracy Tesmer
August 30, 2009
This afternoon I had the pleasure of shooting with the amazing Tracy Tesmer of Tracy Tesmer Photography, I love this lady!
And we decided to select an elegant gown for the occasion. This dress is always fun- silky in texture and just moves so beautifully (we will have to wait to see the other photos return from the lab since they were taken in medium format). Just wait till those photos are released- they will give you a greater look into the dress and even more of the perspective from Tracy’s talent.
This dress is just so rich, and the lighting is to die for. The details on my golden clutch is just so dreamy, too. Yum!
I never can remember where I originally found this dress- it was one of those unexpected finds in a boutique, that I do remember. It was on clearance and buried, nearly forgotten. A small fragment of the dress stuck out and caught my eye. I knew I had to have it. Such a perfect design, and a very lucky find.
The brand, I have no idea. It had no name, perhaps why it was buried in a clearance section to begin with. But a dress this elegant doesn’t need one. It speaks for itself.
More photos to come soon… so keep checking in ;D
Fit-To-Kill Loving A White Rabbit Accessory
August 17, 2009
With a name like “fit-to-kill” how can you not instantly fall in love? The theme of this design is very Alice in Wonderland which strikes a lot of points from me- I’ll admit I’m mad about such styles.
This post may be a little bit mean since it turns out I was the lucky one to order the very last set of these (yes, it’s too late now) but I still love them enough to share the style idea with you. Something about miss matched earrings appeals to me. A theme keeps them together, almost like a story, but the fact that they are different is beautiful.
With this set- one side is a pretty white rabbit while the other holds dainty flowers.
In case you couldn’t tell from my hat and updo, I’m feeling especially girlie this afternoon. I have my days where I go all out for no other reason than just going all out. I love it.
The earrings are very much like from a fairy tale, also bonus points. There was another pair that I think may be available still that I had my eye on- it is a four piece set so you can mix and match to your pleasing. The signature piece (what would be like the bunny in this set) is a deer, and it comes with a pearl, mushroom, or butterfly to pair with on the other side. I’m still considering it- here’s their sneak peak from the site:
They even have an actual fairy tale set directly out of Cinderella- with choices of a crown, crystal, glass shoe, and carriage to choose from. Very adorable.
It is all very unique and makes a feminine, but darling statement. Pretty fabulous! You can look for more items from Fit-To-Kill by searching on Yes Style.
Double The Lines For Glamorous Eyes
August 5, 2009
A color looks extra bold and brilliant when it is brushed up against a simple black line, double it and you have one strong and glamorous look. Add some sultry lashes and you have a lovely look!
I like to change my make-up look on a regular basis. Otherwise I get bored and it’s hard to get excited about things when you are feeling bored. So I’ll play with anything from classic to exotic. It varies from my mood, the season, and my outfits. If you’ve ever picked an outfit revolving around a shoe, I’m sure you’ve done the same with make up as well, lol.
I love this look, I invent it back into my style here and there. Sometimes I just forget until the idea strikes me again- you know? But I do love how elegant this look feels, and how incredibly simple it is to match with any outfit. It dresses up the casual wear and balances beautifully with the more formal styles. The flair finish of the blue eye shadow at the edges of the eye mean they have an attitude for anything!
A very simple look that takes very little time. Gotta love that. When I have my eyes dressed up in a bold fashion, I like to keep the rest of my face simple. Just a touch of blush or bronze on the cheeks- like a subtle sun kissed look, and then either nude or glossed lips.
It’s all warm and sunny outside today, so I’m going with the lip gloss look. A nice, simple shine. Maybe later in the evening if I want to be more dramatic in this look, I’ll wear a nude shade of lipstick. That will really make the eyes stand out.
Nailene Gives Nails A New Look And Style
June 30, 2009
Having lovely nails is a necessity at all times- whether we are wearing nail polish or not. I know I prefer to have no nail polish over chipped nail polish at any time. Bad nails will ruin any fabulous look in an instant.
I am very grateful to have now discovered Nailene- not only are their products inexpensive but they are for the fashionista on the go. With fabulous press-on nails in beautiful designs, they also have many options for adding your own personal style into the mix. Like for instance, my new favorite toy:
This is the “French Tip Pen” and it comes in two colors- black or white. The beauty of this is how it makes applying a smooth line simple and quick. But do be aware that like anything else it takes some practice with your non dominant hand since it does act like a pen. I know I’ve gotten so used to a brush it took me a moment- but honestly by the second nail I forgot all about it and fell in love once again.
You could actually fill in the entire nail, too, if you wanted. I am going to explore the options available with this incredible tool- polka dots, little designs, stripes- oh so much to explore! A brush cannot give you that kind of flexibility or control. It applies smoothly with no glopping- just clean and beautiful.
Another luxury I have found out about this pen throughout the week is that as my nails do begin to chip, touching up takes seconds! It mixes in flawlessly and I can just fill in to missing pieces without anyone being the wiser. Love it.
If control is an issue for you they also offer these stickers you can put in place to provide a clean line. Just put them into place, swipe away with this nail polish pen- and you have a gorgeous look waiting for you.
The strips are great if you need them, though honestly I like to freehand it as I feel pretty comfortable and in control. It is especially nice, however, when you are in a hurry and don’t want to worry about it. There’s no excuse for bad nails, even on the rush.
I think I may use the stickers for playing with designs- placing them one over the other or next to each other for strips and zig zags. I’ll show you as I experiment and see what comes up.
They have so many fun options to play with, whether you are in a hurry or you have the time to really dress your nails up. I’ve been playing with some of their stickers they also offer- everything from little gems to pretty designs- just place them on the nail, layer a clear coat to keep it clean and in place, and you are done. I’ll give you a sneak peak at some of what I’ve done so far- but much more is to come soon.
Speak with you soon- if you start experimenting with your own ideas be sure to share them, I would love to see them!
A Pretty Print For The Shirt-Dress Look
May 27, 2009
Ah, the shirt dress- I admit I have a long, white, otherwise men’s shirt formed into a dress with the help of a belt. But there is so much more possible with the design; take for instance this fabulous print shirt dress, complete with bow and exotic collar.
I discovered this find at TARGET some time ago, and bought the two prints that stood out to me the most. One is pictured here, more unique and different with color and design. The other is your traditional white shirtdress, but with navy pinstripes and a bow like this one.
I like how it has a unique collar to it, too- I have it buttoned up to show the full potential this look offers. It can also remain unbuttoned for a more traditional standard look, but I am enjoying the puffed stylish look today. I definitely wear both, it gives my wardrobe more variety.
The bow is the same way- and I love bows. With the collar up, I wanted to keep the symmetrical feel alive and so I have the bow centered. Normally if the collar were down, I would have the bow off to the side at an angle. It really does change the feel of the dress, funny how the details can do that.
The rich color and print on this dress makes it pop, so I like to keep my accessories simple. Not much is needed here- I am wearing some simple and adorable silver earrings and a collection of silver bangles across my wrist.
I am sporting the pigtails today, it lets me show off the collar of the dress and have the cute look the pig tails provide at the same time. I usually do an updo with this dress, but with the natural curls and waves I’ve been getting from my hair since I saw my stylist earlier this week, I wanted to keep them present. So the pigtails are doing just the thing for me today.
So here’s a new way to spice up the shirt dress look and keep it interesting and feminine! Gotta love the new ideas and inspirations.
A Fabulous And “Flipped-Out” Do
May 21, 2009
This is my latest creation in hairstyle updos, and I must admit I am loving it even far more than expected! The idea came to me in an instant and I wasted no time getting to the results.
It is an elegant, chic, bold and definitely “flipped-out” do-and surprisingly simple and quick to do. I cannot wait to experiment further with it as there are so many options available. My hair is long, but there are still great possibilities for those with medium length hair as well. It works.
I’ll be featuring the step by step illustration of how to do this magnificent do in my next month’s issue of “The Pretty Society Exclusive Newsletter“- along with other great insights on food, beauty, wine, and more. I like to keep things interesting, and this will be a special issue to love.
I’ve been enjoying this look all day, and it has been holding well. From running errands to even sitting by the pool for bit this afternoon- I’ve been able to go from one place and outfit to another without the slightest hesitation. And the glamor is very present and strong with this look- it feels so fabulous!
I am calling it the “flipped-out do” because it is based off a technique I reveal in my BombshellBeauty Grand Collection. This one takes the technique to a whole new level, and the results are simply marvelous. I’ll be showing you variations you can do with the look as well in the next Newsletter edition of The Pretty Society- so be on the look for it for those of you who are signed up!
If you aren’t signed up yet and want in on the details, visit http://tinyurl.com/exclusive-newsletter for more.
A Vest On A Vest- Why Not?
May 20, 2009
In a random styling moment- I ended up wearing a vest on top of another vest. Why not- seemed like a brilliant idea at the time. And with the second vest being such a peculiar one as it is, I think the look works just fine. Definitely something interesting and different.
I’ve worn the blue BCBG vest before and posted on it in the past, but a few weeks ago I had purchased a long black vest that is semi see-through. It is almost a vest-dress really, it is long and has pockets at the side. But, it is still a vest in the top portion design- meaning awkward to wear by itself as it needed some sort of layer beneath it to make it work.
The black vest stops where the picture ends- which makes for an adorable dress- but again, it needs something underneath in order to not be too revealing. So while playing in my closet, I tried it with another vest.
Oh yeah, I also started playing around with my accessories I had forgotten about! Not necessarily for the outfit, but just for play. This was a necklace and earings set that I had dubbed the “rice krispies” accessories- the material is so soft and has a distinct food-like sense about it, I don’t know what it is made of but it is yummy looking.
(And Vanessa, if you’re reading this you’ll remember where they came from maybe! I had nearly forgotten until I recognized the bag it came in, random and unexpected shopping-oh the memories).
Anyway, some random styling but pretty fun in the end- I think I will repeat this look again. It is comfortable and different feel. Plus it is a lovely instance where black and navy look so lovely together.
Child’s Play In Mirrored Elegance
May 6, 2009
When was the last time you played with a rocking horse of your very own? Maybe its been too long… fortunately now there is an elegant and fashionable alternative!
From YesStyle, one of the designer brands offered is Sweet & Co♥. With adorable and creative designs, some child-like and colorful, others subtle and elegant- the opportunities are playful and beautiful.
My latest purchase is this absolutely adorable rocking horse ring! It is mirrored and just the right size to make it noticeable but not overbearing. It has a delicate and feminine look that speaks memories of childhood now all grown up.
I like the idea of wearing this playful and youthful ring with a cocktail dress when going out with the girls- how much will this dazzle in the dim lights looking gorgeous against my cocktail or wine.
I love that subtle shine that bursts with the right light- and this ring will do it gracefully.
And the packaging is perfect, also- it comes in an pretty pink little pouch enclosed within an adorable pink envelope- ready to be received as a gift. I think my kitty, Aveline, thought so too- right when I opened the package she went for the pink envelope first!
Adorable, isn’t it? And as you can see there were other items I had purchased as well- but shhh, those are to be revealed soon! Enjoy your sneak peak, for now I’ll be playing with this marvelous new ring!
