Thursday, April 7, 2011

Wardrobe Basics Everyone Should Have


No wardrobe is complete without a few tried-and-true basics that make up the foundation of your wardrobe. (Think little black dress or fave jeans & tee). But, what about your jewelry? What go-to jewelry essentials make the cut on YOUR list of Brilliant Basics? Here are just a few of ours…deco drop earrings, soiree studs, small fringe hoop earrings, bardot spiral bangle, and stackable deco rings.

Finding the right pair of jeans

Denim is necessary in ANY wardrobe. Regardless of your body type, with all of the different choices of styles out there, you’re sure to find a pair that will look great on you…so don’t give up until you’ve found the right one! While you aren’t about to wear jeans to a black tie event, you can wear them almost anywhere else. My preferred color is a dark wash because it’s so versatile. Black and deep blues are simply flattering and the look fancier, however I'm a big fan of a great pair of white denim for spring and summer!



There is a wealth of options when it comes to denim but the downside is that it can be taxing on anyone to go through all those brands and styles to find your perfect fit. But it’s out there! If you have to bring a friend or find a professional, a friend told me Nordstroms is a great place for denim fitting. This is definitely one place I recommend on splurging. The only time I don’t recommend splurging in this area is you are in between sizes, i.e. after baby number 2. Remember that a great pair of jeans can do more for your butt and legs than any contouring bodywear – and jeans are so supremely effortless, versatile and easy to style.



Who loves how much denim has evolved? I’d like to personally thank the person that decided denim should have a bit of a stretch built in. Two reasons why I love that denim now has a little stretch to them – 1. The stretch in the denim makes a more comfortable fit than the old fashion, super-thick denim. 2. The stretch in the denim is key for creating a nice line for your legs.


Nordstrom's Women's Jeans Fit Guide


The challenge with the stretch is how to buy them correctly so you don’t buy them too loose, which will lead to washing them between every wear. This will lead to premature fading. If you are like me, I like to wear jeans for long periods of time between washes because I think it breaks them in a lot faster. The secret to trying them on: especially if they have 2 percent or more of a stretch (check the tag inside), they should be as tight as humanly possible because the fabric will ultimately “give” A LOT. As long as they look good and you can zip and button them – and breathe! They are not too tight.



Note about pocket placement:

Position and size of the back pockets can dramatically affect what your butt looks like in jeans – smaller pockets will it look bigger, ones that are too close together will make your butt look wider…NO THANKS! In general, choose pockets that are standard in size, which angle in slightly – they’re the most flattering.



My preferred style is the straight leg very dark or white. It’s the most flattering cut and they are great because they are clean and sophisticated.



What’s your favorite style and why?

Stay tuned for what shoes to pair with your perfect fitting jean.

Wednesday, March 30, 2011

I'm challenged when it comes to flats!


I have yet to buy a flat that I love. Is there anyone out there that feels like they can't "do" a flat? I think they look good but when I put the outfit on with a pair of flats I don't "feel it" and inevitably put on a wedge or a heel. Today I had a $200 gift card to spend at Nordstroms and was ready to venture into the flats - I tried on so many but loved the heels (do heels come in 2" any more?) and ended up with a fabulous Tory Burch sandal.



I hope to pair this up with these stylish pieces from CAbi. I love a great pair of white denim!!! Can't wait until Friday - CAbi party with the girls!!!!


Stay tuned for more on my challenges with flats....



Monday, March 28, 2011

Classy Necklace for a Classy Look


What a fabulous necklace! Introducing the Marrakesh Bib, it's definitely a must-have couture piece. From Monday to Sunday this piece can be easily incorporated into any outfit. Yet another one of my favorites and when it is laid out with 7 different outfits - I fall in love all over again!

Which one(s) best describes your style?










Friday, March 25, 2011

Bright Colors for Spring




I love the bright colors especially for spring. Have you seen this necklace? It's the Carnival Necklace by Stella & Dot. Here are five ways to incorporate this fun and festive piece into your spring and summer wardrobe.

Boho Chic: Finish the look with Mira Bangles

Preppy Stripes: Finish the look with Essential Ball Studs in Gold

NYC Edge: Finish the look with Essential Ball Studs in GoldCasual Summer Day: Finish the look with Essential Ball Studs in Gold and Nugget Wrap Bracelets - gold
70's Chic: Finish the look with small fringe hoop earrings in gold
Which one is more your style? My favorites are NYC Edge, Casual Summer Day and 70's Chic in that order.





Modern Day Woman Uniform


Who doesn't love wearing the "modern day women" uniform - great pair of fitting jeans and a t-shirt!? It's what I love to wear everyday. I like to kick it up a notch with fabulous Stella & Dot accessories from keeping it simple with everyday pieces (plural because I love to layer) to creating a focal point with a gorgeous statement piece! Most of the statement pieces that I love to wear give me a confidence boost,they can easily change your mood and change a look of drab to fab!

Check out these simple looks?

Oh So Boho Chic: Revival Bracelet, Prosper Bracelet, Wishing Nugget Bracelet, and Soiree Studs.


City Chic: Gold Nugget Wrap Bracelet, Black Clover Double Wrap Bracelet, Vintage Twist - Gold, and Small Gold Fringe Earrings


Night on the Town: Metropolitan Mixed Chain Necklace and Ava Cupchain Earrings



Spring Awakening: Bamboleo Necklace and Essential Ball Studs - Gold


Don't forget Mother's day is May 8th and I'm sure your husband would love some hints.

Do you want to recreate your look? If you do, please stop by my facebook fan page and post your picture of your new look!



School Budget Cuts

Concerned mom of two! I'm so disheartened by these new budget cuts that I'm hearing about. My kids are only 3 years and 10 months old. I'd love to hear your comments on what you think. If you have kids will you continue to put them in public schools? Do most families have the income to find the extracurricular activities that will substitute the absence of the subjects that nourish the left side of the brain? Post your comments here.
 
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