Spring Jewel Tones

Its time to break out the brights and gear up for Spring, sunshine and all things happy :)

I had Easter brunch at my girlfriend’s aunts and they had real BUNNIES!! It was the most legitimate Easter Sunday I’ve ever experienced – I may not have hunt for eggs or received an Easter basket via USPS (really, not this year Mom??) but I did hold a bunny like a baby which has to count for something.



Thankfully, Dana and I were on the same wavelength and both sporting bright jewel tones… her fuchsia blouse complemented my royal blue sweater perfectly. A Happy Easter indeed!

Fashion Fridays

I've made my official debut as one of Seattle's Belles of the Sound - I will be contributing on Fridays and sharing all things Fashion.

Check out my first feature on Weekend Wear:
Fist Fashion Friday: Weekend Wear

And last week's edition was all about Accessories:
Fashion Friday: Accessories

Be sure to visit Belles of the Sound every Friday for the week's styling tips, ways to wear, shopping scores and more!!

This week I will introduce a new monthly feature: Dare to Wear, all about trends and HOW to pull them off if you're game...

Stay tuned and stay stylish!

Spring Fling... with your closet

Has it really been 5 years? Time flies... especially when you're having fun! Back to business - Spring is in full effect (maybe not outside, but is happening) and it's time to swap your go-to black basics for something a little more inspiring...

It's time to break out your long-lost mild-weather favorites:

that perfectly broken-in brown leather jacket
denim in washes that cannot be mistaken for black
speaking of denim... that denim shit (or 3) you've been waiting to wear
the lwd (pair with tights until the down jacket is no longer a necessity)
neutral-hued trousers
anything striped
peep-toe platform sandals
statement earrings and necklaces in bold hues
feather-weight cashmere

Incorporate these pieces into your more recent purchases of:

colored denim
anything neon
chunky open-knit sweaters
lace and French-charm inspired pieces
shrunken school-boy blazers
the 80's pointy-toe power pump (yes, its back)

Start mixing and matching these basics (and beyond) to create a look all your own. Photos to follow... promise.

Stay tuned and always stay stylish!

Chic AND Cozy

How do you keep cozy during the holidays?

First things first - when I say cozy I mean CHIC and cozy. So, put the Christmas sweaters away and keep the Uggs indoors. Now that we've covered the "don'ts" let's focus on the "do's" and get you ready to bundle up in style. 

-Layers are your friends (when worn properly)
-Boots are a necessity
-Ponchos and leggings are a privilege, not a right 
-Fur accents are encouraged 
-Cold weather accessories are a requirement

Now put on your mink earmuffs, cashmere wrap and over-the-knee socks. I'll see you bright and early on Black Friday. 

Stay tuned and stay stylish. 

Beach House Basics

It's vacation season... whether you're headed to the beach house for a long weekend or an extended stay, there are a few key pieces you must pack in order to survive the elements in style.

Cut-off denim shorts - preferably vintage Levis, but any old pair will do. I love them cuffed and frayed, but a tan (real or faux) and toned gams are a necessity...

Lightweight tees and vests - keep it simple with a classic scoop-neck tee and accentuate your shape with a crochet or denim vest (see my sunset Newport adventure for inspiration)

Straw hat - floppy, fedora or cowboy; whichever style suits your shape and ensemble, top off your look with a hat for added style and sun protection

Cozy sweatshirt - find a neutral shade (I love taupe's and oatmeal's) and unique shape to ward off the evening chills or breeze from the open seas

Classic aviator sunglasses - a universal style that fits EVERYONE (face and budget) and is always effortlessly chic

Jeweled flat sandals - when the temperatures rise and its too humid for jewelry, add a touch of interest with embellished footwear (practical and polished)

These beach house basics - in addition to a flattering swimsuit and SPF - are sure to keep you a step ahead of the crowd. More summer styling tips to follow...

Stay tuned and always stay stylish.

Do or Don't: Denim on Denim

It's nothing new. You've probably seen it in line at the grocery store, while perusing photo albums circa 1980, or maybe even in your closet... Fondly called the 'Canadian Tuxedo,' denim on denim can be a fashion DO if executed properly.

Here's a few tips to make D on D work for you:

The key is to pair denim pieces that are at least 2 shades lighter or darker. And don't be afraid to top it off with a bold necklace, belt, scarf or fedora.

I love darker denim jeans paired with lighter denim shirts. Add some of the extras mentioned above to personalize the look and take your D on D ensemble from drab to fab.

Some of my most recent (and well received) denim on denim endeavors:

Dark denim wide leg jeans, light denim button-up shirt (collar popped), sequin vest, statement necklace and red barret.

Dark denim jumpsuit (yes, you heard right), cognac leather belt, wedge sandals and aviator sunglasses. Pictured above.

Guys - you can make this look work for you, too. The same rules apply; ensure your shades of chambray are noticeably darker or lighter. Try pairing a light denim shirt a traditional vest or blazer, tie and dark jeans with driving mocs for a casual office or weekend look a la J Crew.

Do you dare to wear denim on denim?

Whatever you decide, stay tuned and always stay stylish.

transition time...

It's that awkward time of year where it's cold, wet and rainy, yet the stores are stocked full of warm-weather attire. What's a stylish gal like you supposed to do?

It's all about transition pieces.

Can't get enough of Spring's nautical-inspired lightweight tees? Try layering one under a cozy knit cropped sweater or throw on a leather jacket for a tough-girl edge.

Obsessed with the bright, bold colors gracing the runways? Mix them with last Fall's must-have neutrals until the sun starts shining. I love camel and orange, ivory and fuchsia, gray and yellow... Or try adding a pop of color with a bright bag, bangle or hat.

Flipping for florals but still embracing black? Tie a patterned lady-like silk scarf around your neck to break up your monotone ensemble.

Daydreaming about wedges and open-weave oxfords? Pair them with tights or trousers until the temperatures start to rise.

Love sheer silk blouses and all things sleeveless? Throw on an oversized cashmere sweater or fur vest to stay warm and add texture.

Now pick up some of Spring's must-haves and don't fret when the weather takes a turn for the worse. Pack an umbrella (perhaps its time to trade in that tired animal print for floral?) and be prepared for compliments... Confidence is the best accessory, beside SUNGLASSES (of course).

Stay tuned and always stay stylish