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

Fall Trend Recap

It's chaos in the office with prep for meetings and number crunching. BUT alas, there is a moment to share this seasons HOTTEST FALL TRENDS!

Here's what you need to know to look AMAZING thru the end of the year:

Military Inspired
Animal Prints
Chunky Knits
Retro Minimalism
Metallic, Jewels and Shine
Hats and Toppers
Waist Cinchers
Faux Fur Accents
Key Colors - Camel, Neutrals and Grays; Reds, Blues, Berries and Greens

Stay tuned for details - in the meantime asses you closets and get shopping!

As always, stay stylish

summer, summer, summertime!

It's officially JULY and as expected the sun has yet to make an appearance in the pacific northwest. BUT I am confident that warmer weather will come. When? I'm not sure, but I do know what I'll be wearing when it does:

Easy neutral blouses and flowy tanks - It's ALL in the details! I LOVE studs, ruffles, bows, draping and subtle prints

Denim shorts - NOT the micro mini versions, but a looser fit rolled up for a casual chic look. Not a shorts girl? Cargo pants cropped at the ankle have the same effect

Lightweight scarves - The perfect way to pull your look together or keep you warm when the sun sets. I love linen blends, jersey and cotton in brights, neutrals and prints from exotic to nautical

Straw fedora or sun hat - Protect your highlighted summer locks from the sun and look good doing it in the seasons must-have hats!

Shades - Whether you love the classic aviators, the retro cat eye or an oversized Jackie O version, these will be your go-to accessory for months to come

Crossbody bag - The shape of the season has a long strap for hands-free summer fun. Chose one that suits your style and fits your essentials, then head outside to show off your laid-back look

Bright and neutral nails - Your pick, but be sure you have at least 2 coats on before baring your toes in this seasons sandals

Updated gladiator sandal - Still going strong, I love an embellished or neutral sandal that takes you from morning coffee, to the beach, to BBQs to cocktails

The perfect LWD (little white dress) - Find perfect fit for your shape and make sure its lined to avoid any incidents. This can be dressed up or down and should be worn often

Did I cover it all? When the weather heats up, there will be more to share, but until then... stay stylish!

Nicole Richie

Come meet Nicole Richie at the downtown Seattle Nordstrom this Saturday, March 27th from 1-3pm in the Savvy department for the official launch of her latest collection, Winter Kate!

For more details, check out:
http://winterkate.com/
http://www.facebook.com/home.php?#!/event.php?eid=103642719673556

See you there!

personal styling

it's official! i am downtown seattle Nordstrom's newest personal stylist...
a question i am often asked is how do you create a style all your own? here's a few ways to start:

emphasize what you like most about yourself. love you're legs? wear narrow-cut pants, skirts and shorts if you dare. killer arms? go sleeveless, halter or one-shoulder to show them off Michelle Obama style. ample bust? draw attention up to your gorgeous face with embellishments and details on the neckline.

pick a bold accessory or article of clothing and make it your signature go-to piece. maybe it's a vintage Hermes scarf, a skinny fuchsia belt, a kelly green bag or a taupe parka - whatever strikes your fancy incorporate it into your everyday wardrobe and wear it often.

always wear proportions that fit your body and lifestyle. love the fuller cropped pant trend but don't know how to pull it off? try variations of the style on until you find the one that suits you, and don't be afraid to take it to the tailor! if you covet this season's platform clogs but stand on your feet all day, go for a sturdy pair of sandals with natural wood details to make the look work for you.

proper hygiene - obviously you're cleansing daily, but don't underestimate the power of a well-manicured and moisturized body. Taupe nail polish is hot for spring and a faux glow never hurt anyone...

accept and embrace the amazing body you have and go forth with a strut in your step. confidence is the ultimate accessory, so stand tall and show the world what you're made of!

now that your mind and body are ready for springs newest silhouettes and hottest trends, come see me for a wardrobe update!

stay tuned and always stay stylish

spring must-have's

the sun is beginning to shine, trees are regaining foliage and the stores are chocked full of spring goodies. here are a few things to start stocking up on today:

nude shoes - so fresh for spring. pick a pair that closely matches your flesh tone and wear them with EVERYTHING! i love dresses with nude fishnets and nude pumps to sass things up with a little bit of coverage.

floral print scarves - if a full on floral dress is too much, and perhaps not weather appropriate yet, tie a bright scarf around your neck and viola!

the new shape pant - its a little fuller, slightly tapered and hits at the ankle. a fresh alternative to leggings and trousers, theses show off your sassy shoes and are the perfect transition piece. define your waist with a bright belt and cropped jacket.

lucite and natural jewels - the bold look is still in! wear natural, rope and stone statement pieces during the day and swap them for clear, lucite strands at night.

go forth and shop! best of luck and always stay stylish!

transition time

it's that strange time of year when we are between seasons. when it's cold, rainy and possibly below zero outside it's certainly not appropriate to wear a tulle dress or a sheer floral print blouse (a la vogue). so the question remains, what's a fashionable gal to do when the weather does not warrant wearing the latest spring fashions featured in the magazines and filling the department stores?
here's a few ideas to get you through january and february in style:

• layer! that gorgeous floral print dress will look just as divine over a sheer turtleneck and leggings. pair it with a rugged boot for an unexpected edge now, and when the temperatures rise wear it with a lightweight boyfriend cardigan and jeweled flat sandals
• neutrals - shades of oatmeal, tan, cognac and nudes are the it colors for spring. wear them today with your black wardrobe staples and add a pop of color as the seasons change. your go-to piece will be a bf cardi, long and streamlined in a neutral shade that compliments your coloring
  
• leggings are a key trend for seasons to come, evident in the fact that they are all over europe and we tend to be seasons, if not years behind them. i love denim leggings, printed leggings, leggings with a little sparkle, leather leggings... you get the idea. not only are they super versatile and work on a multitude of body types, they are toasty warm and look super chic tucked into boots now! pair them with wedges or oxfords when it gets warmer
  
• oxfords/brogues - menswear inspired and fabulous, these shoes are chic and comfortbale! wear them with tights and a sweater dress now and go bare ankled in the spring. i love the metallic, patent and two-toned versions
• scarves are a year-round staple. varying the weight, material and patters will ensure you remain fashionable from season to season. wear your cashmere and wool now to keep warm and pull out the cotton, silk and lightweight blends later

now go forth into the cold with a hint of spring today and allow it to blossom into a full-blown fresh look as the tempuratures rise. best of luck!

stay tuned and always stay stylish!

brr... how to bundle up, and dazzle in style

baby, it's cold outside! how does one stay fashionably warm without looking disheveled and bulky? here's a few ideas:

• LAYER - wear a dress with tights, over-the-knee socks and boots to stay toasty on bottom; pair a chunky sweater with a sheer turtleneck and a classic 3/4 wool coat on top for a cozy, chic look
• scarves - they go with everything... i love lightweight cashmere, wool blends and the new infinity scarf
  
• boots, boots, boots - flat, slouchy, over-the-knee, riding, motorcycle, etc. whatever strikes your fancy. not only do they look fab, they keep your lower half warm. who would've thought?
  
• legging pants - a wondrous marriage between your incredibly comfy leggings, and tight but sexy skinny jeans. wear these in place of either, or layer them under a dress for extra warmth
• the perfect winter coat - whether its a gorgeous cashmere Burberrys or a feminine goose-down, make sure it's timeless, tailored and weather-appropriate
  

ok. you're nice and warm and that's fantastic, but what about holiday party attire? here are a few great ways to shine at all your upcoming events:

• sequins - a little sparkle never hurt anyone! go all out with a sequin mini dress or tuxedo-style jacket, or keep it subtle with an embellished cardigan
• statement necklace - you've seen them all over the magazines and in the stores. fall in love with one, buy it and wear it with your lbd, white t-shirt, whatever. you will get compliments, i promise
• legwear - it changes everything, literally. pair your go-to lbd with opaque tights and booties for the office party, then transform your look with nude fishnets or a metallic flecked tight with your sassiest shoes for the real parties... champagne flute optional

now go forth with confidence and show the world that you know how to bundle up outside, and work the room in sky-high heels for the holidays inside. cheers!

stay tuned and always stay stylish

fall fashion updates

I know, if you reside in the northeast the summer has yet to make an appearance BUT fall fashions are rolling in like morning fog. These are the key trends from the fall runways, so adjust your closets accordingly:

• leather
• boyfriend blazer
• skinny pants/leggings
• suede footwear and accessories
• grays and purples
• mixed metal jewelery
  

happy shopping! details to follow...
stay tuned and always stay stylish!

national necessities

the east coast has its cultural differences, but i am adjusting. that being said there are a few things that i realized i needed after being here for only one week. the following key pieces are universal necessities, no matter what coast you call home:

• a classic trench coat - the perfect weight to ward off spring chills and transition into fall (I love the 3/4 length Burberry in trench, which is the perfect shade of khaki)
  
• black platform gladiators - for those sassy days when a flat sandal just won't cut it
• bold, statement necklaces - to add that special something to your basic black wardrobe staples
• nude nail polish - keep it light and simple, but don't throw your dark shades away, just stow them until september
• the perfect black maxi dress - throw it on and dress it up or down

there will be more summer updates to follow so stay tuned and always stay stylish

it's official!

i got the job and i'm moving to providence. NY is my next mission...
with the east coast comes some exciting wardrobe changes, most notably:

• fur - it may sound terrible, but vintage mink is oh-so-fabulous!!
• black - appropriate year round, and always slimming
  
• straw totes and breton red - new england classics that never go out of style
• all of your favorite vintage accessories (heirloom jewelery, brooches, gloves, etc.) - perfect to mix with big city basics like tailored blazers, wide-leg trousers and oxford pumps
• scarves - silk when its warm, cashmere when its cold
• any and all exotic skin pieces
  
• Bean boots - bring on the snow!

i cannot wait for may 1st, all i have to do is work on my accent...
stay tuned and always stay stylish

xox

investment pieces

times are tough. but you can't always cut corners when it comes to classics. you get what you pay for with shoes, bags and other wardrobe staples that will be in your closet for years to come. the following investment pieces are worth the extra hours at the office.

• fabulous wear-with-everything flat sandals
• nude pumps. I love the christian louboutin very prive patent leather platform peep toes
• a classic, seasonless handbag big enough to fit a pair of flats and a snack (if you're spending all that money on shoes, try saving some cash by packing your lunch). I am coveting the chanel maxi and I will get it...
• a blazer
• white trousers, preferably lined
  

if it's a trendy piece that will only take you through the season at best, save your money and shop smart. department stores and boutiques are fighting for your business so take advantage of sales and lower-priced outlets to feed your need for that item of the moment. happy bargain-hunting!

stay tuned and always stay stylish!

i'm loving

what i love and therefore so should you:

• trousers - believe it or not, this working-girl wardrobe staple can be sexier than a pair of skin-tight skinny jeans when accessorized properly
• booties and oxfords - still perfectly suitable for spring, lighten up the hues (think nude, python or metallic) as the weather gets warmer
• any and all exotic skin accessories - if you score them secondhand, there's no need to feel guilty, and of course embossed leather will suffice, but only if it looks and feels authentic
  
• silk chiffon - need i say more?
• fingerless leather gloves - if you're feeling sassy enough
• classics that never go out of style - red nail polish, anything quilted, black pumps, leather jackets, lbd's, etc.

i know, you agree don't you?
and of course, when it gets warmer, there will be more (but really less) to love, so stay tuned and always stay stylish

you are AMAZING

I've missed you! But there are a few things you should consider before getting dressed this morning. Always wear something that makes you feel amazing, preferably one of the following:

• an lbd with a few key accessories - tights, a scarf or necklace, and a chunky cardigan, cropped jacket or shrunken blazer
• boyfriend jeans (faded, slouchy and perfectly worn in) with a tissue-thin t shirt
• anything with fur or fringe, never both, and keep it subtle
• a statement belt, even better if its a relative's hand-me-down, worn at the natural waist over your favorite tunic, dress or blouse
• LEATHER anything - boots, jackets, vests, skirts or skinny pants if your sassy enough to pull if off
  

So please, make sure you feel as amazing as you undoubtedly look when you walk out that door!!! And always remember to stay stylish