The Floral Blazer

I love blazers.  They go with everything; from work, to happy hour, to a night out, you can't go wrong with a good blazer.  I'm recently obsessed with floral blazers.  Yes, it's a fine line from being chic or old-fashioned, but it's a chance I'm willing to take.  Pair with a plain white tee, skinny jeans and wedges and boom you're good to go!

The inspiration:

I've ordered and returned a few floral blazers this season.  It's hard to find that right print; no-one wants to look like grandma's couch.  Here are a few options I like:

This super affordable option offers 3/4 length sleeves, which I love, and a pattern that is not too over-the-top ($37.04 at ROMWE).

This silky ASTR Drape Front Blazer ($64 at Nordstrom) is softer and less structured than your typical blazer.

Dare to venture on the tropical side?  Try this ASOS blazer in tropical print ($104.80 at ASOS).

Oh, and if you love the clutch above, like I do, you're welcome - GiGi New York Sky Blue Uber Clutch ($165 at Gigi New York).  Note, more colors available and personalization available up to 3 initials stamped to match the hardware.

Will you be attempting the floral trend?

Fashion Plate

For those of you who don't know me, I was born and raised in Kentucky until I moved to Chicago when I was 22.  The Kentucky Derby, and all Kentucky traditions, are all near and dear to my heart.  Including the Kentucky Oaks, the biggest race of the day before the Kentucky Derby.

Meet Fashion Plate, my pick for the Oaks.  As a fashion blogger, could there be a better choice?

Fashion Plate was bred in Kentucky by Springland Farm and Fox Hill Farms, Inc.  And who can say no to those silks?  Pink, fabulous; neon polka dot, yes please.

Drink a Lily in honor of the Oaks!

Life is short; buy the shoes!

Yep, that sums me up.  I love shoes!  I can't help it.  Ridiculously expensive, beautiful, designer shoes.  Always have.  Always will.  So, it's that time of the year, my birthday!  Since I turned 30, I've treated myself to a fancy pair of shoes costing a small vacation.  Christian Louboutin, check; Valentino, you bet, Brian Atwood, got those too.  This year, I can't decide which to buy…so I need your help!  Here are the top 5 pics, in no particular order:

1.  Jimmy Choo "Damsen" Sandal

Jimmy Choo's Damsen sandal in Neon Flame is a front runner.  The chunky straps are modern, but the skinny heel adds some delicacy.  The Neon Flame color is definitely a showstopper!  ($995 at Jimmy Choo).

2.  Valentino "Rockstud" Gladiator Sandal

These handcrafted leather, thong sandal features Valentino's signature three dimensional pyramid rock studs positioned along the straps and three side buckle fastenings ($895 at Neiman Marcus).

3.  Gucci "Liberty" Sandal

I love the colors of this suede bold color blocking.  The sculptural, mirrored heel lends a geometric edge ($795 at Nordstrom).

4.  Jimmy Choo "Freesia"

This strappy sandal offers adds the right pop of color and exoticness.  The problem is I can't pick a color!! ($950 at Jimmy Choo).

Option 1 

Option 2 

5.  Christian Louboutin "Corneille"

A shoe list is not complete without a pair of Louboutins.  The asymmetrical pointy heel gives new energy to the black pump ($645 at Christian Louboutin).

I can't decide!!!  Vote on your fav below!

VOTE ON MY B-DAY SHOES

Fuchsia is Fabulous

My favorite lip trend for spring is the bold fuchsia lip.  Flattering all skin tones, a fuchsia lip is a younger, hip alternative to the classic red lip.  Gone are the days of soft, petal lips; this spring is all about big, bright and bold!

To achieve this trendy and chic look, first make sure your lips are exfoliated and well hydrated.  I'm obsessed with "the lip scrub" and "the lip slip" by Sara Happ ($24 each at Nordstrom).  "The lip scrub" comes in delish flavors like sparkling peach, creme brûlée, and sparkling pink grapefruit.

Next, dap off the excess gloss and line your lips with a color that's nearly identical of the fuchsia of your lipstick.  I like to fill-in my entire lip, as I found it helps keep the color stay longer.  My liner of choice is Le Crayon Levres Precision Lip Definer, in 58 Rubellite ($29 at Nordstrom).

When you've finished applying the liner, apply your fuchsia lip color.  Some recommend using a lip brush to get better precision.  I am in love with the color, consistency and applicator of Too Faced's Melted Liquified Long Wear Lipstick in Melted Fuchsia ($21 at Sephora).  With the shine of a gloss, lasting power of a stain and pigment-packed color of a liquid lipstick, I have to literally remove it after a long night of drinking.  It stays on that long people!!  And it's not sticky or over-drying either.

And voila, you're all set to go!

MK…To. Die. For.

I have not had any motivation to post these last few months, thanks to Chicago's subzero temps, but today I receive something in the mail that gave me the motivation I needed: Michael Kors' Summer catalog.  MK is already my favorite "affordable" designer.  From watches, to bags, to wedges, his design is sophisticated and flawless.  Here are a few favs from his Summer collection:

1.  The perfect wedge

The MICHAEL Michael Kors Giovanna Espadrille Wedge Sandal ($150 at Michael Kors).  I own these in the color above, Tangerine.  This strappy sandal with logo embossed hardware should is a summer staple.  They are actually extremely comfy.  These come in various colors: Tangerine, Luggage, Opic White, Pale Gold, and Black.  Can't find your size or color at MK, check Nordstrom (Tangerine, Luggage/Opic White, Pale Gold).

2.  Turquoise Waters

I love everything about this look.  The Michael Kors Dylan Aviator Sunglasses (these are actually in Green, on sale for $94.50 at Nordstrom) the Michael Kors Mid-Size Channing Golden Stainless Steel Three Hand Watch ($250 at Michael Kors) pop with everything, but especially crisp white.  Like the Channing watch but not the price, check out the similar Michael Kors Mid-Sized Golden/Blue Stainless Steel Three Hand Watch ($180 at Michael Kors).

3.  White Hot

These white swimsuits give me the (much needed) motivation I need to get skinny for swimsuit weather:

Michael Kors Belted Metallic-Strap Mailot ($529 at Michael Kors).

                                 

Michael Kors Bandeau Bikini with Hardware ($274 at Michael Kors).

                      

Michael Kors Side-Belt Mailot ($494 at Michael Kors).

4.  Summer Bags

This Michael Kors Large Nora Tote is perfect for the pool or beach ($198 at Michael Kors).  The clear croc embossed "jelly" with gold trim keeps this bag easy to clean, perfect for wet towels and just all around the best bag for the pool or beach.

Add a pop of summer color with this MICHAEL Michael Kors Medium Jet Set Multifunction Saffiano Tote in Palm ($298 at Michael Kors).

                     

Keep White Hot wit this MICHAEL Michael Kors Small Bedford Tassle Pebbles Messenger Bag ($228 at Michael Kors).

Which is your favorite?  Do you love MK as much as I do?

Enjoy.

xo

The weather outside is frightful…Outerwear Edition

Y'all are all aware of the frigid temps that have taken over this year.  There is no need to sacrifice fashion just because the temperature drops (many, many numbers below zero) as demonstrated by gorgeous coats, elbow length gloves and chic boots.

Today's post focuses on outerwear.  Your coat is the first thing people see when they meet you; stand out amongst a crowd with these:

Cape Crusader

For a statement piece, especially when in a bright color, nothing beats a wool cape.  It's classy, fashionable and functional.  I like this green wool cape with faux fur collar ($99 at udobuy.com).  Note: when in negative wind chills, I recommend wearing pants; the model didn't get the memo.

Parka Party

Even the puffiest, biggest down coat can look chic.  Choose one in a slick finish or bright color.  Add a belt to cinch the waste and faux fur trip to make the most utilitarian of outerwear modern.  The North Face "Parkina" Belted Down Parka in vintage white has a belt to nip the silhouette and removable faux fur trim to vary the look ($370 at Nordstrom).

Warm and Cozy

Warm and cozy meets city chic in a long, down coat.  Add a belt to add definition to the waist.  Or choose a slick dark fabric, which is slimming.  Check own this Lauren Ralph Lauren Long Packable Down Coat ($216.17 on sale from $325 at Nordstrom).

Bombs Away

Look forever cool in a sporty bomber jacket.  Add some femininity with this StyleStalker Homies Bomber ($189 at Zappos).  I love the floral pattern and the radiant orchid color scheme.

Wool Wonders

Stick out in a crowd with a vibrant wool trench coat, like this Lauren Ralph Lauren Wool-Blend Walker coat in peplum orange ($239.99 on sale from $340 at Macy*s).  This riveting color recharges the basic single-breasted coat tailored from a soft cotton-blend twill.

Check out my next post where I'll show some fun, but warm, accessories and boots to keep yourself trendy in these sub-zero temps.

xoxo

Shine bright like a diamond

I love all things that sparkle; diamonds are no exception.  One of my favorite jewelry designers is Los Angeles based Bony Levy.  Levy designs simple, yet elegant pieces that can be worn daily.  Levy designs exclusively for Nordstrom and is available to design custom-made jewelry pieces.

A great time to introduce yourself to a Levy piece is at the Nordstrom Anniversary sale each summer.  His pieces can be found for up to 40% off.

Some of my favorite pieces:

Stackable Diamond Ring

Available in white diamonds set in white, yellow or rose gold or black diamonds in yellow or white gold, choose from a straight or wavy design.  Delicate, yet eye catching, these rings can be stacked or worn alone ($795 at Nordstrom).

Stackable Diamond Bangle

Similar to the stackable ring, the diamond bangle is dainty yet stunning ($1,995 at Nordstrom).  What I love about this bangle, if you have small wrists, like me, there are different available circumference options.

"Stick" Pavé Black Diamond Bar Necklace

Jet-black diamonds surrounded in 18k gold add an edge to this contemporary necklace ($1,195 at Nordstrom).

Single Initial Earring

Add some personalization with initial earrings.  Mix and match initials with these single, diamond studded earrings ($395 each at Nordstrom).  Set in 18k white gold.

Stack 'em, layer 'em, wear 'em alone; you can't go wrong with Levy and diamonds!

xoxo