FBFF: Feeling Festive? So Am I.

Happy December my loves! Just in time for the holidays, I'm bring you an early gift - a new post! (Just what you've always wanted right?

Inspired once again by the mind of Katy over at ModlyChic.com we have a great set of #FBFF questions.

Take a peek into my holiday pyschy.

No holiday party is complete without: Good food, good drinks, good friends/family.


My favorite Christmas song/album: I'm Dreaming of a White Christmas (Bing Crosby version only.)My favorite seasonal recipe: Eggnog with rum.


The perfect New Year's Eve outfit includes: Something that makes you stand out from the crowd.At the parties, I'll be drinking: LOTS of champagne.


Eggnog, good or bad? Good, only when spiked.Did you ever take pictures on Santa's lap at the mall? Yes!


Gingerbread Latte or Peppermint Mocha:Neither, I'd go white chocolate something.

Worst gift I ever got:I must've blocked it from my memory because I definitely don't remember!

Best gift I ever received: Everyday is a gift.

My family has this weird tradition:I wish I could say we had one...but we don't.

My best bargain find for a gift this year: I found my brother-in-law this amazing button-down Calvin Klein from Nordstrom rack marked down from $90 to $40!

If I could only buy all my gifts from one place, I'd shop at:The internet...and I do.

Rudolph the Red-nose Reindeer or Frosty the Snowman:Why make me choose!!??

My favorite holiday memory:Waking up early and seeing what seemed like a massive pile of gifts under the tree with my brother.

My favorite Christmas movie:White Christmas.

The best part about holiday decorations is:Getting caught up in the spirit.

Rip off the wrapping paper or neatly pull off the tape: Depends on how nicely the gift was wrapped.

Miracle on 34th Street or It's a Wonderful Life:Ahh um both? or can I chose A Christmas Story and White Christmas?

It doesn't feel like the holiday season until: I watch White Christmas.

All I want for Christmas is: You dear reader!

Happy Holidays to all! 

XXoo

P.S.  If you have a blog or a FB page, try to repost these questions - I'd love to see your answers!

Seeking Sequins

I guess you could say my love of sequins started long ago.  I could probably pinpoint it to age 5 or 6 when I began taking dance classes and have a variety of costumes covered in sequins.  I still remember my favorite piece – it was a red sequined headband worn proudly like I was starring in Flash Dance or another classic dance movie.

Sequined garments were big back then and were worn in every day life – not just as part of a dance costume for a recital.  These days, sequined garments aren’t always as easy to find but they are making a strong come back and whether you buy new or vintage a strong sequined piece makes the perfect staple for your closet.

Here are some of my favorites:

Perfect paired with a cropped sweater or tank creating an effortless but dressy look…

(Antik Batik Alep Cropped Sequined Pants available @ NET-A-PORTER.COM, $460.00)

A closet staple.  Wear it with leggings, dress pants, a skirt, boots, heels or flats.  Either way, this blouse is super versatile.

(Diane Von Furstenberg Kallina Sequined Kimono Top available @ Nordstrom.com, $498.00)

Shorts aren’t strictly for summer any more!  Pair these with tights and wear them year round.

(See by Chloe Sequined Shorts available @ THEOUTNET.COM, $138.25)

The perfect party top. Animal print AND sequins? A total yes please.

(Jazzy Sequin Animal Tank available @ CharlotteRusse.com, $22.99)

Need just a touch of sparkle?  This belt adds the perfect pizzazz to any outfit! 

(Glitzy Gold Sequin Ruffled Elastic Cinch Belt available @ Amazon.com, $16.99)

It was really hard to include all the fabulous sequins available!  If you’re looking for a one of a kind sequined piece check out Etsy or Ebay.  They have tons!

Until next time,

XXoo

P.S. If you want to see a picture of the headband that inspired it all, click here.

A Sale of Epic Proportions!

It’s hard not to love ASOS.  They’re affordable, fashionable, send you discount codes for up to 20% off and frequently offer free world-wide shipping.

Right now, they are having an amazing sale and unlike most other sales, this sale features items that are still in style!

I am so in love with this dress it’s ridiculous.  It’s sexy, simple, and would be flattering on almost all body types.  Plus I can’t get over the price!

(Vero Moda Key Hole Drape Back Low Side Dress ORIGINALLY $48.89, NOW $24.44)

 

This blouse is so in right now! Animal print is still a huge trend right now as well as front-tie blouses - definitely key elements for making it a wardrobe staple.

(ASOS Animal Pussybow Blouse ORIGINALLY $61.11, NOW $30.56)

 

I can’t get enough of ASOS dresses.  They are so fashionable but simple.  Just what I like.

(ASOS Waisted Flippy Dress ORIGINALLY $43.65 NOW $26.19)

 

Snakeskin print anything is so big right now.  These are the perfect height for the office or a night out.

(Snakeskin shoes ORIGINALLY $78.57, NOW $33.17)

 

If you’re not bold enough to wear this skirt in the winter it doesn’t matter put it away til spring.  Mid-lengths have just started to make an appearance and they are sure to big a huge hit for the next few years!

(ASOS Midi Skirt with Fixed Waistband ORIGINALLY $52.38, NOW $31.43)

 

Black and white and polka dots.  Need I say more.

 

(ASOS Spot Shell Top with Rounded Shoulders ORIGINALLY $43.65, NOW $21.83)

 

ASOS also has some amazing pieces of jewelry, bags, pants, shorts, menswear, you name it as well! Don’t hesitate on checking out this fabulous sale – items will be sure to sell out fast! 

XXoo

FBFF: (Fashion) Victim of A Contagious Epidemic

It happens to everyone. You might pay it no mind at first but after weeks of hearing or seeing something repeatedly it seeps into your mind and after awhile it's all you can think about.  You begin to get the "I have to have it RIGHT NOW" thoughts that seep in during meetings, every day conversations and as you lay in bed at night. You don't want to be left out of what everyone else has, do you? No.  So you with everyone else (who has also had these thoughts) hits the stores at the same time (and also periodically) vying for the same items that you HAVE to have. Voila, a craze has been created.

Since almost no one is safe from this epidemic and when exposed it is extremely contagious, this week's Fashion Beauty Friend Friday questions divulge into how it affects even the savviest shoppers.

1. Do you ever see a fad hit the stores and immediately dislike it? Has that fad ever began to grow on you? I can't think of anything off the top of my head but I know I've been victim to this before.

2. Has the popularity of a certain piece of clothing or line ever
convinced you to try on something (or purchase something) you dislike? This I can answer. Yes. I am not much of a Juicy Couture or Tiffany's person but I do own quite a few items from each brand.  Not that there's anything wrong with either, I'm just not one of those girls.

3. Have you ever changed your mind about a trend after seeing it
around for a while? Like the answer to number one - I know I have, I just can't tell you when or what.

4. Do you feel a certain pressure to have specific items in your
closet because 'everyone' else does?  I certainly don't feel pressure to have specific items in my closet because other people do at this point in my life but I definitely have before.  (See answer number two.)

5. Be honest, what do you think of the Missoni line? Did you grab any items? Is it worth the eBay prices? I'm actually going to answer this question first since I have strong feelings about it.  I cannot stand when high-end brands do lines for places like Target or H & M.  I like Target and I like H & M and I like Missoni and all the other brands that have designed for these stores but I like them separately.  I don't see a sense in paying a lot of money for something at one of these stores just because they label says a certain name.  You are still buying a piece of clothing from one of these stores not specifically the designer.  I think it's better to save your money towards a new garment from the line or buy vintage piece.  I feel the quality is much better.

What about you?  Have you ever fallen victim to a craze?

XXoo

Feeling Crummy? Buy Something Plummy!

This morning one of my close friends asked me, “What’s a big makeup trend for fall?”  Of course, this led me to thinking and the only new makeup trend making a big statement so far is deep plum lips.

Lipstick has made a big comeback these past couple years from bright pinks, to reds, to corals, to orange this past summer but this fall’s trend is surely one for the brave (or gothic.)

If you don’t feel bold enough to rock this trend, there are tons of other great ways to wear this royal color.

Here are some of my favorites:

I love Revlon lipstick for a couple reasons – it’s cheap and easily accessible.  When keeping up with the ever changing trends in lipstick colors this is the way to go.

(Revlon Super Lustrous Creme Lipstick in Satin Plum available @ Your Local Drugstore, $7.99)

This Single dress from #BLUEFLY is great for work or after work cocktails.  Plus, it’s classic cut ensures it will be around longer than just one season.

(Single Plum Stretch Knit Victoria Notch Neck Dress available @ Bluefly.com, $131.40)

Seriously, these boots are only $55!! Boots are still a HUGE trend.  This color makes them a statement piece for sure.

(Michael Antonio Women's Mckenna Ankle Boot available @ Amazon.com, $55.00)

 

This bag is significantly more than all the other items but is a classic durable bag made for life-long use.  This bag tops off any outfit whether it’s jeans and riding boots or a tailored suit.

(Michael Kors Gia Satchel available @ NeimanMarcus.com, $895.00)

What do you think?  Would you dare wear deep purple lipstick?  Or would you rather try to wear it another way?

XXoo

*Disclaimer: I am well aware of how the term "plum" is used in England.  To my Brit friends - is this still being used? Was having the worst time trying to think of a catchy title today!

FBFF: Falling In Love

So last week’s Fashion Beauty Friend Friday topic was fall trends. Now I know I’m showing up a little late to the party with this post but sometimes late can be fashionable – and that’s exactly what this post is all about!


So this fall’s trends are kind of interesting. (Just another reason fashion is amazing!) Somehow, fashion took a sharp quick turn and went in the complete opposite direction it had been going. Gone are the loose fitting bohemian inspired pieces and bright colors. In their place sit structured garments and muted tones.


Here are some of my favorite fall trend must-haves.

 

Viktor Rolf white blouse, $573.00
Marc by Marc Jacobs merino sweater, $250.00
Thakoon Addition oversized shirt, $460.00
Oasis sleeveless blouse, £40.00
Valentino Roma pleated skirt, $225.00
Rupert Sanderson platform booties, $1,099.00
Brass earrings, £12.00


I don’t know about you but I am really excited for some of these things!


XXoo

FBFF: You May Say I'm A Dreamer

I'm a dreamer.  I always have been.  I don't remember it starting at any specific time but I do know I've always had my head in the clouds with my feet dragging on the ground.  I believe that those who do not dream, do not live and what's the point of it all if you have nothing to aspire to so obviously when I saw this week's Fashion Beauty Friend Friday questions, I got a little excited. 

1. Fess up - if you could do anything professionally what would it be? Only my best friends and family know this but I'll share with you. (Secrets out now!) If I could be anything in the entire world, I'd be a model.  I'm talking high-fashion, runway walking, editorial photo taking model.
 2. What draws you to this? A few things draw my to this - I love to travel and meet new people and I'd get to do that all the time.  I love being photographed.  I love the way editorials dress models as a form of art and quite frankly I'd love the paycheck (and the clothes and shoes.)


3. When did you first start dreaming about this ideal? A long long time ago.  I started talking about it in high school though.

4. What's holding you back from going all in?  Well mainly I'm only 5'7" so while I have been asked to model for a few agencies, it's only to be told I'd be great for catalog and soaps. (Disclaimer - this would still be awesome but at the time I was balancing college and work and did not think I could graduate and be out of town all the time.)

5. Sometimes the first step is the hardest... what's one step you can take now on the way to realizing your dream?  So, now that you know I've already pretty much pursed that dream (and I'm definitely done growing so I'm at peace with it) I will let you know that I believe you can have many dreams (which I do) and they can always change and grow as you do.  I currently have a few (and you can check out my Tumbler page for postings I call "Bucket.List" for some other smaller ones.)Some of my bigger ones have been buying a house (done) buying a BMW (done) and one I am currently working on is being one of the best and most sought after media planner/buyer in the country. 

So dear reader, I leave you with this.  Don't ever let anyone tell you no (not even yourself.)  It doesn't matter where you came from or where you are now.  If you can dream it, you can do it.

XXoo

Taupe Decisions

For those of you who know me (or read my blog) you’ll know that I’m kinda crazy with my shoes.  A few times of year I begin to itch for a new “investment” shoe – something expensive and something classic.  Something that my feet really appreciate.  Usually these shoes end up being black (like the majority of my wardrobe.)

This time around I’m looking to get an investment shoe in a different color, perhaps a classic nude.  I have been faced with many occasions where I think to myself, “Damnit if only I had a nude shoe to go with this!” so I think it’s about time I make the purchase.

However, summer is almost ending and I’m really not sure how much I’m going to wear a nude shoe over the winter.  I’m a classic black wearer (can’t get enough) and am craving a pair of coffee colored heels (YSL or some Atwoods please) as well as some pony hair leopard print ones and some bright blue ones.

So what’s a girl to do?  Buy one amazing expensive pair of nude heels that I’m sure will come in handy and look great for many occasions or buy cheaper trendier shoes that I might love for a night or two?

Blue Suedes (Suede Blues)

Okay so I know I’ve been talking about getting some blue suede shoes for a while now and have even posted links to some super pricey ones but I was walking through the mall the other day and gleaming at me from the window display of Payless, yes I said Payless, were these ADORABLE, super high, blue suede heels and with a price of under $30.00 I don’t think I can resist!!

(Brash Komet Platform Pump available @ Payless.com or Payless, $29.99)

Coffee Cravings

So I found these Brian Atwood’s at Sak’s and they are SO cheap (for Brian Atwood’s) I don’t know if I can resist buying these either (see why I am having issues people?!) They are the PERFECT color of brown for fall and they are selling quick!  Decisions, decisions.

(Brian Atwood Power Suede Platform Pumps available @ Saksfifthavenue.com, $229.99)

Leopard Lust

There are so many cute leopard print heels out there; it is hard to just choose one.  You can go with these or these or these! Which now that I’ve come across, don’t know if I can resist either…

(Tory Burch Jude Leopard-print Calf Hair Pumps available @ NET-A-PORTER.COM, $325.00)

Nagging Nude

And then something inside me say just buy nude heels, you’ll be glad you did later. (Besides, this is a BEAUTIFUL shoe.)

(Brian Atwood Maniac Leather Pumps available @ Intermixonline.com, $575.00)

Or should I just start playing scratch offs and plan on buying them all?

XXoo

  

What to Where

Every location has its own sense of style (or lack there of.) As fashion, beauty, and style bloggers this is something we are all too aware of.  Today's Fashion Beauty Friend Friday questions focuses on whether or not style is always location dependent.

1. What part of the world do you blog from? East Coast, United States.  I am based in Baltimore but spend a lot of time working in D.C. and N.Y. as well.

2. If you had to describe the overall mode of dress for where you live what would you say? Well I'd say Baltimore has some style.  It's not N.Y. and D.C. style is completely different but Baltimore style is a mix of artsy or preppy or what I will call teen trendy.  No one is really doing anything super ground breaking with their ensembles.  My favorite area to check out people's style is Hampden where I work.  People here are sometimes labeled hipsters but really they do their own thing.  It works.

3. Do you fit in with the status quo around you or do you break the mold? I don't really know if there is a way to answer this question modestly...but I'm just gonna say it and go with I think I break the mold.  I feel like a lot of people around dress a certain way and I don't want to look like them...or anyone else for that matter.

4. If you have lived or traveled to another part of the country/world did your clothing choices evolve? I wouldn't say that traveling has made my clothing choices evolve more so as I've grown my clothing choices have too.

5. If you had to describe your style by naming a specific city, what would you be? I've been told my style is very Parisian - classic simple garments, minimal makeup and statement jewelry.

Do you feel pressure to change your style to blend wherever you travel or live?

XXoo

5..4..3..2..1..Happy New York Fashion Week! (Almost)

With the kick of New York Fashion week just over a month away (yippie!) and tentative schedules released, (see story here http://www.fashionweekdaily.com/the-fix/article/nyfw-ss-2012-schedule-scoop-part-1-lincoln-center-lineup) I thought it would be a good idea to post some essentials for surviving (conquering) whatever events you attend.

My favorite NYFW essentials:

A Structured Bag

Pick a black one.  It’ll go with everything.

(Dolce & Gabbana Structured Python Shoulder Bag available @ NET-A-PORTER.com, $3,795.)

This Season’s IT heels

This color will be HUGE this fall.  Save your allowance kids, this shoe is worth it.

(Yves Saint Laurent Tribute Leather Pumps available @ NET-A-PORTER.com, $795.00)

A Great Blazer

A good blazer goes with everything – metallic dresses, tapered pants, mini skirts, shorts, heels, flats, you name it!

(Theory Black Stretch Wool Lyzbeth Two Button Blazer available @ Bluefly.com, $345.00)

Something Vintage and Fabulous

One word. Sequins.

(Oleg Cassini Sequined Cocktail Dress available @ VintageCouture.com, $900.00)

(a back up battery for your

Blackberry or iPhone)

Remember – honor the designer and dress according to the essence of their style but don’t forget yours.  If you can’t afford brand new pieces go vintage.  It’s an awesome way to pay homage and not bankrupt you in the process.

Much Love,

XXoo

FBFF: Labeling

Whether we want to or not, it's easy to get caught up in labels.  Whether it's the label on the clothes you are wearing (or not wearing) or the label society sticks on a group of people, everyone has been concerned with labeling at some point in their lives (whether you want to admit it or not.)

1. As a someone who writes/blogs about fashion, have you placed yourself into some sort of blogging category? I didn't know there were categories?

2. What keeps you from or encourages you to label yourself as a
certain kind of blogger? Hmmm well, I don't think I label myself as a certain "type" of blogger really.

3. When picking blogs to read and follow are you drawn to ones that indicate a certain group or way of thinking/being? Totally. I mean who wouldn't?  Blog reading should be fun and for me fun entails enjoying what I am reading and I enjoy reading blogs that have similar style and writing to my own.  A blog is like a friend.  Most of my friends have something in common with myself and the blogs I enjoy the most do as well.

4. Do you think there are benefits in labeling yourself or others? I think labeling is okay if you do it in a positive way and don't label other's in a negative way.  For example, I'd like to label myself as a hard worker, good wife, and someone with a good sense of fashion.  However, it's not up to me to label other people.  That's something you should do for yourself.  If you want.

5. Agree or Disagree - We're all just people; we don't need all the labels. Well I agree.  People shouldn't be labeled but people do label people and even if it is subconsciously.  Society makes us this way - we see it in magazines "What's Hot, What's Not." We see it as we grow up - clubs and groups have names as this separates people from each other by giving them a label.  That's just how it is.

What about you?  Do you find yourself caring about labels? Or do you embrace everyone's differences?

Have a great weekend everyone!

XXoo

P.S.  If you want to find out more about me check out my Tumblr page.

FALLing In Love

…with shades of brown.

NET-A-PORTER always gets me with their “What’s New For You” emails.  They are filled with amazing fashion from my favorite designers and always help put a smile on my face for the day.

Like most stores, NET-A-PORTER has begun to stock fall fashions even summer is still in full swing.  I don’t mind though.  By mid-summer my mind begins to wander, I am no longer interested in buying clothes for the hot weather (nor do the stores have any good options by this time) and I start to day dream about what would make a good outfit for NYFW.

This season, I’m being drawn towards shades of brown and I have a feeling I won’t be the only one…

Here are some of my favorite pieces from NET-A-PORTER:

(T by Alexander Wang Silk Crepe de Chine Shirt, $190.00)

(Diane Von Furstenberg Yokoe Leather Knee Boots, $495.00)

(Tomas Maier Cashmere Wrap, $2,080.00)

(Christian Louboutin Dancing Queen Calf Hair Box Clutch, $1,095.00)

(3.1 Phillip Lim Leather Skirt, $695.00)

(Jimmy Choo Folly suede and snakeskin wedge sandals, $795.00)

What do you think?  Will you fall for this trend?

XXoo

July Forthcomings

So once again I’ve neglected posting this week but this time for a good cause.  I’ve been working on my guest post for Envishoes.com which consists of creating four different outfits styled around one shoe.  It’s been fun and I cannot wait until it is featured (sometime this month!)

So before the holiday weekend begins, I wanted to leave you guys with an inspirational post on some great pieces to wear this weekend (and every other weekend this summer!)

These are a few of my favorite things (in clichéd red, white and blue because I’m feeling patriotic – don’t judge me!)

 

7.  Illustrated People cropped shirt, $40
5.  Cacharel cotton shorts, £84
9.  Platform heels, £120
8.  Prada handbag, £170
4.  Repossi tribal bracelet, €200
2.  Stud earrings, £40
3.  Alexander McQueen sheer scarve, $595
1.  Rag Bone fedora hat, $125

I hope everyone has a safe and fun holiday!  I cannot wait to hit the pool with a margarita and a good book.

XXoo

FBFF

I couldn't think of a good title for this post.  It might be because it's Friday and it might be because I haven't had enough caffeine yet.  All I could think of while I was trying to make word play of the word "wear" was "Wear is my coffee" and frankly that just doesn't make much sense.  (Although it is a good question.)

1. Since you began blogging do you notice a change in the types of things you gravitate towards while shopping? No.  I started blogging because of my style choices - not the other way around.  I wanted to share with others all the different things I found and loved while shopping that I would buy (or that I wished that I could depending on budget.)

2. Do you find, as a fashion blogger, that you dress differently from your family and friends? Do they comment on that?  Well I certainly dress different from a lot of people especially when I am at home in Baltimore.  My best friends are fashionable as well but I wouldn't consider them to be fashion risk takers.  I've always dressed a little different from everyone.  (Remember I was the kid that asked for a beret when she was 12.)  There are days when I feel like dressing like everyone else or wish that I'd be satisfied being simple but for me getting dressed is a way of expressing myself and if I don't let it out I am only hurting myself.

3. What’s the weirdest fashion that you secretly like, even if you aren’t bold enough to wear it?  This has me stumped. Good question...

4. Looking at current trends – what would you like to try but need to build up the courage to do?  Well I'd say there isn't much that I wouldn't try if I liked it.  I do have a giant sunhat in my closet I am dying to wear but haven't come across the right occasion yet so I guess that kinda counts.  But I will wear it.

5. Toot someone’s horn – what fashion blogger out there inspires you with her bold fashion choices?  I could really go on a long tangent and list a bunch of people (bloggers) here but I will have to say that I enjoy reading My Style Pill and looking Christine's style pics.  I love NY.

Happy Friday everyone!

XXoo

M is for Missoni

I love Missoni. I love that they have created a brand that stays true to itself while being on trend every season. Their knits are timeless and whether or not you are purchasing it brand new or vintage, you’re sure to end up with a piece of fashion history you will enjoy for years.

 

Missoni purple cocktail dress, £414 Missoni striped dress, £355 Missoni wide leg jumpsuit, $817 Missoni halter jumpsuit, $624 Missoni striped romper, $805 Missoni short skirt, $645 Missoni scalloped shorts, $360 Missoni Mare bikini swimwear, £159 Missoni stiletto heels, $367 Missoni high heels, $350 Missoni clutch handbag, $540 Missoni butterfly earrings, $275 Missoni hat, $254 Missoni scarve, $193 Missoni knit beanie, $176

What's your favorite Missoni item?  While it's hard to pick out just one fabulous piece, I have to say that I favor the wide leg jumpsuit...or the short skirt...or the wedges...or the sunhat...

XXoo