Showing posts with label ModCloth. Show all posts
Showing posts with label ModCloth. Show all posts

Saturday, March 2, 2013

Accessories Anonymous: Statement Studs

It used to be that to wear a large earring, you had to pick a chandelier, or some type of drop earring. These days, there is an abundance of amazing statement stud earrings and I just can't get enough! I'm in love with every single one of these. In fact, if any of you lovely readers out there want to express your gratitude for my ongoing commitment to quality style blogging with a small gift, may I suggest something below? Of course I'm kidding. I'm not giving any of you crazy stalkers my address! As if!

Anyway, back to the fashion. These are all amazing:

The color combination is perfect for spring! Love! 

Never Too Jaded Earrings, Modcloth, $12.99
Mad Men, anyone? I can so see these on Betty Draper. 

Cobalt Talon Studs, Bauble Bar, $24
These remind me of something Phylicia Rashad might have worn in her Claire Huxtable days. 

Mixed Gemstone Studs, ASOS, $25.43

Stone Bouquet Studs, ASOS, $20.35
(Exactly the same as the first pair, but in a different color. So glamorous!)

So, whether you're more inclined to wear dainty studs or bold chandeliers, why not give the statement stud a try? It might be a fun departure for you- you never know!

Sunday, February 24, 2013

Minty Mint

Are you guys in love with the mint color trend? I'm on the fence. I prefer bold jewel tones most of the time, but this pretty pastel is a refreshing departure for me:

Patent Skinny Belt, Banana Republic, $29.50

Hanalei Bay Top, Modcloth, $37.99

Rochas Foldover Clutch, Barneys, $650

Chloe Madeleine Bag, Barney's, $I have no idea

I love how creamy the hue is this season. It's not too bright, not too pastel, it's like Goldilocks- it's just right. I think I may have to find a way to work this color into my wardrobe pretty soon, before it's gone! What do you think of this color trend? Love it? Hate it? Already wearing it? It's so yesterday? Leave a comment and as always thank you for reading! 

Friday, February 15, 2013

Accessories Anonymous: What I'm NOT Buying

In this economy, we often find ourselves counting our pennies and making sacrifices here and there to keep our budgets balanced, or just to make ends meet. If we find ourselves with a bit of a windfall, it's easy to run right out and spend it on something we've been coveting. But as much as I'd love to have new duds constantly streaming into my closet, I know that's unrealistic. It's those times that I decide to window shop either in person or on the interwebs. It's the most fun to do online because you don't even have to use any gas or bother putting on make-up.

So, in the spirit of not spending, here are the awesome accessories that I will not be buying anytime soon:

What About Bauble? Necklace, Modcloth, $21.99

I love this necklace. I love the color, I love how it's ENORMOUS and I love its price. Juhree and Sadie both have this exact same necklace in other colors, but this peachy mauve is practically irresistible to me. I will, however, resist. 

White Bloom Studs, Bauble Bar, $24

I love these earrings for the opposite reasons I love that necklace. They are dainty and cute and a little understated. They would work with just about anything from jeans and a cute top to a cocktail dress, they'd be great at work, on a date or out with the girls. Also, they remind me of the giant flower on Carrie Bradshaw's white dress.

Foliroli, Aldo Shoes, $40

You all know how much I love a cute brogue, but when it's also in a luxurious peach suede that's just oh-so feminine, I start to drool uncontrollably. I just stuffed a hunk of bread in my mouth to sop up the saliva. Sorry if that was an over-share. 


O.M.G. I have no words for this bag. That's not true. I have loads of words for it: precious, feminine, lush, delicious, soft, gorgeous, supple, flawless and swoon-worthy to name a few. Too bad my birthday has passed already this year. 

I know this post is focused on accessories, but I can actually picture all of the items above working so harmoniously with this adorable dress from Modcloth: 

In Sage You Will Dress, Modcloth, $74.99

Don't believe me? Look at them all together and you will: 

What I'm NOT Buying


So there you have it: an adorable outfit complete with amazing accessories that I will most definitely NOT be purchasing anytime soon. That, my friends, is self restraint. 

Wednesday, February 13, 2013

Jet Set Style: Weekender Bag

Today is the start of my weekend. When you work in retail, your weekend often falls on less than typical days. 90% of the time, I don't really get a weekend, since my days off are usually split up. This week is different, however, and I'm taking advantage of that by making a quick trip down to North Carolina to visit the Professor. What makes this weekend different? Well, it's Valentine's Day this week, which means that the shop is pretty much a ghost town. This often surprises people when I tell them that, but think about it: on Valentine's Day, you're probably not shopping for a wedding gown because you are either a.) getting engaged that night or b.) having a romantic dinner with your fiance. Now it makes sense, right?

So, since the day is dead, I decided to switch my days off to allow for two in a row and then I booked a flight to North Carolina. It will be a very quick trip- less than 24 hours together with my honey, but that's ok. We'll make the most of it, I'm sure. Last year on Valentine's Day, I surprised him by showing up at his door. It was quite a shock for him- he didn't expect it at all. I'll always smile when I remember the look on his face when I knocked on his front door. This year won't be a surprise, but it's kind of fun that we've managed to have a quick visit together on Valentine's Day for two years in a row now.

I like these quick trips because packing is really simple. I essentially need to pack an overnight bag and that's about it. My small carry-on suitcases have taken a beating over the last few years, so while I was at TJ Maxx the other day, I picked up an adorable "weekender" bag by Steve Madden and I'm in love with it!



It's big enough to fit the clothes and toiletries I need as well as an extra pair of shoes, my hair dryer and my laptop. And it's still small enough to fit in the overhead bin. I love that it's a bright color and since the leather is faux, it will be easy to keep it clean. Also, it only cost $50 at TJ Maxx, so I think it was a bargain to boot.

I've had pretty terrible luggage for most of my life, but with all the traveling I've been doing for the last couple of years, I figured it was time to get some nicer, functional travel gear. I don't care much about it matching perfectly, but I do want it to be durable enough for all the use it will get.

I couldn't find this exact bag anywhere online, but I did find some similar ones for those of you who may be in the market for new luggage of this kind. Believe it or not, finding a durable, stylish, functional travel duffel bag is no easy task. Finding one that's affordable? Even harder.

Vera Bradley Weekender, Vera Bradley, $98

Let me be clear: there are very few Vera Bradley bags that I would deem stylish or even cute. The hideous floral and paisley patterns are just wretched the majority of the time. This particular print isn't that offensive, in fact, it's kind of cute. Of course, if it doesn't suit you, there are about a dozen other options. 




Happy travels to anyone out there jetting away for the weekend! And as always, thanks for reading! 

Tuesday, February 5, 2013

TV Inspiration: Downton Abbey

Yesterday, I posted a blog inspired by the fashion of the leading ladies in Mad Men. Today, I'm taking you back a few more decades to the 20's and 30's styles of Downton Abbey. For anyone who hasn't seen this show, do yourself a favor and go watch the first season. You'll be hooked immediately. Even if the melodrama of uppity British aristocracy wasn't enough, the clothes on this show are absolutely to die for! Beaded sheaths, stunning jackets, fascinators and hats galore- it's a fashion dream!

My favorite part of getting dressed every day is accessorizing, so let's look at some stunning Downton Abbey-inspired accessories to make every outfit just a little more glamorous:

Acacia Bracelet, Jenny Packham
Can't you see this bracelet with  fabulous party dress? Something completely luxurious, of course. 

Style My Sunshine Hat, Modcloth
It's hard to picture yourself strolling through the grounds of a British estate on a warm, sunny, spring day, but this hat certainly helps me imagine it. 

Natasha Couture Multistrand Necklace, Nordstrom
I love how the ladies of Downton layer long beaded necklaces over their stunning beaded dinner dresses. Watching the show, you can hear the sound they make when the beads bump against each other. No matter what crisis is being discussed, I'm always distracted by that sound. 

Nina Ricci Leather Gloves, Barney's
What Downton Abbey-inspired post would be complete without a stunning pair of long, elegant gloves? This show makes me want to wear gloves all the time. It also makes me want to wear evening wear to dinner every night, but that's another issue.... 

Speaking of evening gowns... 


Do you have a TV show that inspires you? Whether it's for the fashion, the scenic design, the music- leave a comment and tell me what you love about it! 

Thursday, December 13, 2012

Accessories Anonymous: More Stupid Hats

I'm obsessed with hats right now. I think I've been watching too much "Downton Abbey" because all I want to do is dress in beaded sheaths for dinner and talk walks through the countryside in a flattering coat with a spectacular hat on my head. Gloves, too. I want to wear gloves ALL the time!

I know this hat isn't exactly in line with the 1920's; it's more of a modern interpretation. I think that's why I love it so much.

Ring of Sapphire Hat, Modcloth, $49.99

I think I would look pretty adorable in this hat. I could curl my hair and wear a simple outfit to let the hat be the star of the day. Which is saying something, because I'm pretty much always the star of the day. 

Saturday, December 1, 2012

Accessories Anonymous: McGlovin'

I am NOT a fan of mittens. I hate how my fingers aren't able to function individually when I'm wearing mittens. I've always been this way- even as a kid. I can remember having to wear mittens to play outside and just hating it.

I have a few go-to pairs of gloves that I wear almost every day in the winter, but I also have a couple of sets that are just a little out-of-the ordinary, a little more fun. I think it's a great way to make your outerwear look just a little more funky and out there.

Check out these fabulous gloves that I found around the interwebs:


Handshake It Up Gloves, Modcloth, $74.99

Daisy Eyelet Gloves, Anthropologie, $78


How do you feel about gloves as a fashion accessory? Are they another fun detail to add to an outfit, or are they strictly utilitarian? Leave a comment and as always, thanks for reading! 




Wednesday, November 28, 2012

Accessories Anonymous: A Handbag Quest

I was catching up with Beth the other day when she mentioned her current handbag quest. In case you didn't know, Beth has a major obsession with handbags and is nearly always on a quest for one. Sometimes it's something specific and others it's just for something inspiring. Either way, I can always count on her to be on the lookout for something great. This time, she was on the hunt for a stylish cross-body bag that is big enough to hold a laptop and a notebook. That's a pretty tall order if you ask me. She said that all the bags she'd found just looked so much like briefcases that she wasn't interested. Or, they were a gajillion dollars and she just couldn't see herself spending that much. So, I decided to hop on the interwebs and see what I could come up with.

Here's what I found:


I like the woven detail- especially how exaggerated it is. The bag is also available in three other colors- orange chocolate brown and light tan, but I prefer the grey. It is definitely big enough for Beth's requirements, and I think it's pretty stylish, but let's keep shopping, shall we?

The All Star Bag, Modcloth, $59.99

I'm always a fan of a pop of color and you really can't go wrong with green. At 14.5 inches wide, it could definitely fit a laptop without looking like a briefcase or a standard laptop bag. It's versatile, too- the color works year round and the interior has multiple pockets. Seems pretty ideal if you ask me! 

If green isn't your thing, but you love the idea of a pop of color, check out this gorgeous satchel by ASOS:

Metal Corner Satchel, ASOS, $49.95 

The cross body strap is adjustable, and the bag itself is roomy with a zippered inner compartment perfect for staying organized. Organization is Beth's middle name, so I know she'll like that aspect of the bag at the very least. 

For a more casual look, I love this one from Etsy: 


It's stylish, for sure, but in a decidedly casual way. It's definitely not for me, but I imagine it would be a nice, durable bag for all those city subway rides. The seller offers it in several color choices,so you're not limited to a neutral brown. I admit, I browsed this seller's store for a while and liked a lot of what I saw. The prices are great, too. I kind of love this one: 

Project Bag, Etsy, $44

The interior of this bag speaks for itself: 

Am I right? 

So, there you have it- a handful of bags that (I think) meet all of Beth's requirements. The question is: do any of them make her swoon or drool or both? 

Do you have a shopping challenge for me? Send me an email or leave a comment and I'll see what I can find for you! 





Tuesday, October 11, 2011

Shoesday Tuesday- T-strap Heels

There is something so refined and feminine about a t-strap heel. It's more sophisticated than a mary jane, but still youthful. I'm a fan of these ones from Modcloth:



Enchanted Dream Heel, $119.99

I love that each of these shoes are nude, but with interesting details and flattering shapes. To successfully wear a t-strap shoe, be careful with where the top of the "T" falls across your ankle. It needs to cut across the smallest part or it will be very unflattering. Also, choose a nude color to keep the leg line long. (Say that five times fast!) 

Happy Shoesday Tuesday, everyone! 

Thursday, October 6, 2011

Rate My Look in a Paper Bag Skirt- Hip or Ho-hum?

The paper bag waist skirt trend seems to be here to stay, or for another season or two, at least. The term comes from the way the top of the skirt looks like a paper bag that has been cinched at the top. I have never tried one on in a store, but lately the look has intrigued me. I was in a Banana Republic store not too long ago and saw a super cute one in mustard yellow. It was precious. At nearly $70, I decided it was best not to even try it on. After all, if I fell in love with it, I might somehow find a way to justify spending $70 on a trendy skirt when I know deep down what a terrible choice that would be. I found myself at the fabric store the other day and there was a fabulous bottom-weight poly twill in a bright, fun yellow and it was on sale- 40% off. So for twelve bucks instead of seventy, I now have a paper bag skirt.



The thing about this particular style is that it really shortens the torso even more than a traditional high-waist skirt. In order to look the most flattering, the paper bag skirt has to have the waistband at the natural waist and therefore the ruffled top of the "bag" is even higher than the natural waist. It really only works with a really fitted top and a short hemline. I am not entirely convinced that this is a look that will work for me, but since I'm only out $12, I'm not going to lose any sleep over it. If you, however, are interested in trying your own paper bag skirt look, here are a few that I think are pretty cute: 



Dash to Class Skirt, Modcloth, $54.99


What's your take on this trend? Do you love it? Hate it? Don't understand it? Leave a comment and tell me what you think! My coworkers seemed to really like my yellow version of the trend, but what do you think? 

Monday, October 3, 2011

Manic Monday

Today's post is all about the Bangles- do you see what I did there? Manic Monday? Bangles? Get it? I feel so clever sometimes.

Anyway, if you're ever in need of a finishing touch on an outfit, consider adding a bangle, or two, or ten. Thick and chunky by the pair or dozens of razor-thin ones, bangles are fun, eclectic and go with just about any outfit.

Castlegate Bangle Set, Ruche, $18.99


Pyramid Stud Bangle, Forever 21, $6.80

Paige, Sloane and Sunset Bangles, Stella and Dot, $59.00-$69.00 each

Add a little bit of fun to your next outfit with a bangle or two. Use them as the "pop" of color in an otherwise neutral outfit, or simply pile on layers of metallic bangles for a glamorous look. Whether preppy or punk, they'll work! 

Monday, September 26, 2011

Thanks a Dot, Modcloth

I once wore a fabulous polka-dot dress to work (not at my current job) and a co-worker called me "Minnie Mouse." She meant it in jest and she was not being malicious, but the comment bothered me. I wasn't wearing a bow in my hair or mouse ears or white gloves, so the only reason she had to call me that was the polka-dots. Why should polka-dots get a bed rep just because of Minnie Mouse? She's lovable, right? Polka dots don't have to be cutesy and this dress from Modcloth is proof:

Thanks a Dot Dress, Modcloth, $104.99

Paired with modern accessories, this dress will look sophisticated and stylish. Do yourself a favor and don some dots today. 

Wednesday, September 7, 2011

Rain, Rain, Go Away!

I've been extremely fortunate that for almost the entire summer, nearly every one of my days off was blessed with beautiful weather. Today, not so much. It's rainy and cold and I just want to stay curled up in bed all day long. Yesterday, one of my coworkers commented on the fact that she doesn't own a rain coat. And now it's pouring outside, so Kristin- this post is for you!

This cool jacket caught my eye because of its great fit, textured fabric and cool pleated collar: 


I'm absolutely drooling over Banana Republic's Mad Men Collection Leopard Print Trench. The color is subtle and not at all over-the-top, so you could feel comfortable wearing this jacket every day! 

If the pale leopard print is too neutral for you, you may want to try a bolder print. I like to wear bright colors and bold prints on rainy days- it helps combat the gloominess. This striped trench might just do the trick, especially if you had a nice bright red umbrella: 


Sometimes you just don't feel like wearing a trench. But what other options do you have? Well, this cape is a great start! The color is so rich and the silhouette is so retro-60's- it's perfect over a pair of skinny jeans or a fitted skirt with tall boots: 
Botany Professor Cape, Modcloth, $69.99

Another cool silhouette option is the slightly boxier swing coat style. This military-inspired version keeps the look crisp and clean while also featuring cool details like epaulets and big, silver buttons: 
Ahead of the Fleet Jacket, Modcloth, $154.99

Don't let a little rain get in the way of having a fabulous day out on the town. Just grab your Wellingtons and an umbrella and one of these fabulous raincoat options and head on out! Enjoy this rainy day, everyone! 





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