Today's Everyday Fashion: Neon Love

 
I'm pulling another look from the archives today because I'm still sick! I gave myself a day to rest and do nothing which is good for my health but bad for the blog. :-) I put this outfit together a couple months ago but haven't had a chance to wear it yet. I love neon, so I was thrilled to find a way to make it work for winter. What do you guys think - is neon a yes or a no in the winter?

ps. Check out a new section on the blog "Favorite Posts and Videos" which has links to my most popular, how-to and video posts!

Dress: H&M, $35
Blazer: Express
Belt: Urban Outfitters, $30
Boots: Cynthia Rowley/TJ Maxx, $85
Earrings: Urban Outfitters, $5

Why I don't 30x30

I’m going to start with some disclaimers right up front!

1. There is absolutely no judgment on fashion bloggers who do this challenge. These are solely my opinions and what I feel is best for my own blog. I do not advocate "boycotting" all fashion bloggers during the remix, nor is that my intent with this post.
2. I am posting my opinion to: a. answer those who have asked if I am planning to do it and b. because I think it’s fun to think outside the box and not just go with what is popular, but to throw in some dissenting opinions too!

By now you have gathered that I will not be doing the 30x30 challenge. (The 30x30 is a challenge that hundreds of personal style bloggers participate in. They pick 30 pieces of clothing/shoes and in 30 days that’s all they can wear. They post pictures of the 30 outfits they came up with.) Here's why:

1. The biggest reason - 30x30 does not fit in with my blog’s mission statement. My mission is to keep it real and represent real-life clothing situations at all times. The only time a real-life 30x30 situation happens is if you take a trip that lasts 30 days. I don’t feel this situation happens enough to warrant “practicing”. This also goes again some of the principles I teach on this blog, such as: use everything you have! Wear that blazer you haven’t worn in 5 years! Why leave out the rest of your clothes for a month? This doesn’t make good sense in real life.
2. My mission is also to help people get creative and feel good about themselves with clothes. I'm writing for an audience of real people who are not pros (neither am I!) and I see the 30x30 as a potentially stressful situation: "what items do I choose?" "how do I put them together?" I can literally see someone crying in their closet over it, which takes all the FUN out of fashion! The challenge seems like it's better suited for a talented fashion blogger or stylist, not an everyday girl.
3. I treasure the fact that my blog is unique and there isn’t another one out there like it. Blogs are such personal and specialized little slices of heaven – for the life of me I can’t figure out why everyone wants to be posting the same things at the same time for a month?
4. From a reader perspective, if you do the 30x30 challenge I pretty much stop reading your blog for a month. Not because I'm a hater, but because I find it boring. (Again, I'm not advocating boycotting 30x30 bloggers here, I'm just stating my opinion as a reader. If it's boring to me, I certainly wouldn't want to post about it, right? My reasons for not being interested are the same as above, simply because it's not a realistic situation. I love the Biggest Loser and American Idol, which are competitions that make differences in people's lives. But 30x30 is like watching Minute to Win It - why are they trying to balance golf balls on their forehead again?)
5. Last week I came up with these four challenges off the top of my head. I think they are better suited for the everyday girl, and these situations DO occur in real life:

• When you are out of ideas: wear the same shirt or dress 4 times this month, in different ways.
• When you need to do laundry: wear the same pants or skirt M-F, in different ways.
• When you have no $: challenge yourself to not buy a single new item for 60 days, and use what you already have.
• When you bored with your clothes: challenge yourself to wear 10 items this month that you haven't worn in 6+ months.

I’m interested in hearing your thoughts! Is the 30x30 something you would like to see on this blog? Or any of the other challenges I listed? How do you feel about doing the 30x30 on your blog and why? Please let me know what you think in the comments section!

Today's Everyday Fashion: The Gun Show

 I was faced with an interesting question yesterday: what does one wear to a gun show? I went with comfy jeans, comfy shoes and my latest find at TJ Maxx - a floral shirt that I though fit the bill. I tried taking my picture while we were at the show (how cool is this old Phillips 66 sign?!) but the sun wasn't cooperating so I snapped the left photo when I got home (don't hate, I'm still sick and had been crying = not cute). I shot a gun for the first time in my life and the whole experience freaked me out so much I cried - am I the only one this has happened to? I mean, I'm from the sticks of Kansas so you would think this would be no big deal, but I had never been that close to a gun and they are scary. I managed to shoot it twice and I'm determined to try again, but it was quite the adventure! :-)

Occasion: Gun show
Sweater: Gap, $25
Shirt: Silence & Noise/TJ Maxx, $15
Belt: American Eagle/Filene's Basement, $5
Jeans: American Eagle, $33
Boots: Forever 21, $33
Necklace: c/o Designs by Mandi, $14
Purse: Juicy Couture/Neiman Marcus Last Call, $115

Today's Everyday Fashion: Friday Night Fever

The title of this post is my attempt to be funny. This is what I wore on Friday night, when I was just getting over a fever, get it? :-) I've been sick all week but I didn't want to miss the first-ever Orlando fashion bloggers meet-up organized by yours truly (if you are a fashion blogger in Orlando please email me!). A dress was the easiest thing I could think of and with some makeup and hair you couldn't even tell I was getting over being sick. Mission accomplished.

Why this works: This dress is boxy and I have very little curves, so I added a belt to define my waist and give my body some shape. I added tights for warmth, and to balance out the short hemline of the dress!

Occasion: Blogger dinner
Dress: c/o Unique Closet
Belt: Express, came with another dress
Blazer (left): Express
Scarf (left): Banana Republic, $20
Tights: Hue/TJ Maxx, $5
Boots: Cynthia Rowley/TJ Maxx, $85
Purse: Urban Outfitters, $30
Earrings: Boston boutique, $15
Bracelets: Banana Republic, $10-15

A group shot after dinner! Check out their blogs (from left to right): Work Your Closet, Fashion the Like, and Machine Wash Warm.

Photo courtesy of Machine Wash Warm

Flashback Friday: Black Boyfriend Blazer

Today I'm rolling out a new weekly feature called "Flashback Friday" where I show multiple ways I've worn the same item. Today's subject is a black boyfriend blazer I bought at Express more than 5 years ago, and here are 10(!) ways I wore it Let me know what you think of "Flashback Friday" and which outfit is your favorite!

Review of ASOS.com

I have spent the past year drooling over the items on ASOS.com, a United Kingdom retailer. They stock some of the most unique special occasion dresses I have ever seen and when items go on sale the prices are amazing! The company announced that they "moved" to the US in September and with that came free shipping in both directions. I decided to stop drooling and finally placed my first order a couple weeks ago. Here's what I learned:

1. Shipping: Shipping is free in both directions, but it is slow. Like really slow. I'm used to ordering from Forever 21, and they move at a snail's pace but ASOS was way worse. Expect a long wait time if you order (up to two weeks).
2. Quality: I ordered two sale skirts for $20 and $25 (one is pictured above). For the price, the pieces were great quality! Way better than I was expecting, way better than Forever 21. I felt like the prices were great for the quality of the items.
3. Sizing: The sizing is WAY off. This part almost brought me to tears. I ordered a size up *just to be safe* and the skirts are still way too small. This is great news if you are a petite person who wears a 000, but if you are normally in the larger numbers at the Gap, then you might have to skip this website. (For reference, I wear a size 2 in bottoms at Gap/Banana/LOFT/Abercrombie. I ordered a US size 4 in the skirt above, and a US size 6 in another skirt because it was Petite. BOTH are way tiny on me and I can't even zip them up.)
4. Foreign Transaction Fee: This is another part of the experience i really could have lived without. My credit card charged me a foreign transaction fee for ordering from them. This part confused me since they are supposed to be located in the US now? Luckily, when I return the skirts this should get refunded but it was still a bummer to see this on my credit card statement! (Note: my charge was $3 for a $45 order, but this varies by credit card provider and is a charge from them, not ASOS.)

Overall, I'm a bit disappointed. I probably won't order again unless I'm really desperate for one of their special occasion dresses, which I will order at least two sizes larger than normal. :-)

Today's Everyday Fashion: Game Day

I came down with a bronchitis thing this week so I pulled this look from the archives. I absolutely love this color combo, although living in Florida now it reminds me a bit of Gators colors! (make no mistake - I'm a Jayhawk fan, my alma matter) This could be one creative way to dress up for game day if you were a Gators fan, however. Tell me - what teams do you follow and what creative game day gear do you wear?

Cardigan: H&M, $18
Shirt: c/o Elegantees
Belt: Gap, $40
Jeans: Hudson/Filene's Basement, $70
Shoes: Restricted/Endless.com, $39
Earrings: Banana Republic, $20

Today's Everyday Fashion: Who Wears the Pants?

This is my second outfit with these red pants. The first outfit was met with... mixed reviews. In today's look, I paired my tomato red pants with leopard and black. A bit less busy than my last outfit, but the pants are still quite the statement, so I'm looking forward to hearing your reactions! Tell me - which outfit do you like better? Would you wear this look (or any red pants look for that matter)?

Blazer: Express
Shirt: Express, $35
Pants: Gap, $17
Belt: Forever 21, $8
Boots: Cynthia Rowley/TJ Maxx, $85

Today's Everyday Fashion: That 70's Plaid

Claudia Schiffer is working this look in People StyleWatch! I decided to re-create using my new flared jeans. Even though the wash is darker, I think the flared shape looks perfectly sassy paired with the red belt and plaid shirt.

Why this works: Bell-bottom jeans have a lot of volume, so it's best to pair them with a slim-fitting top. A top with an empire waist, or one that's longer, creates too much volume overall and not only looks sloppy but also adds pounds to your frame. (no bueno)

Photo left: People StyleWatch
Sweater: Gap
Shirt: Forever 21, $18
Belt: Forever 21, $5
Jeans: Gap, $15
Shoes: Restricted/Endless.com, $39

What to Wear for a Photo Session

I teamed up with a couple photographers to help answer the question - "what should I wear to my photo session?" I also hear this from readers (usually for engagement or family portraits), so here are my tips + outfit suggestions!

The first part is an article I wrote for Jonathan Ivy Photography in Dallas. The second part contains some outfits I put together for Andi Mans Photography in Orlando. Hope you enjoy! :-)

To see the details of these outfit on Polyvore, click here, then select the photo you'd like to view.

Today's Everyday Fashion: Who What Wear

Today's look is inspired by one of my favorite fashion newsletters, WhoWhatWear.com. They always feature the most inspiring outfits and I look forward to their email every day. (I highly recommend subscribing!) I loved the idea of layering a white collared shirt under my polka-dot blouse and since both shirts are lightweight and sheer, it was a match made in heaven.

Occasion: Work or weekend
Photo left: WhoWhatWear.com
Trench: New York & Company, $50
Fur collar: H&M, $15
Polka dot shirt: J.Crew, $45
White shirt: H&M, $13
Belt: H&M, $20
Jeans: Gap, $35
Boots: Aldo, $75
Necklace: LOFT, $15
Purse: Juicy Couture/Neiman Marcus Last Call, $115

Video: NYE with OrlandoLIVE

Watch live streaming video from orlando_live at livestream.com

New Years Eve has always been one of my favorite nights of the year, but this year was extra special! Check out this OrlandoLIVE episode I had the pleasure of co-hosting. My favorite part was interviewing people on the red carpet about their outfits! Thanks to Peter Murphy, Sean McCabe and the whole crew - it was a blast!

Chatting it up on-camera with Sean McCabe (left) and Peter Murphy (right)

Today's Everyday Fashion: Herringbone, Take Two

This outfit is really similar to the one posted here. The difference? I am actually wearing this today because it's cold enough to wear this blazer (yay!). I also switched out the shirt and added a bunch of fun accessories so I thought it was worth posting again. It's herringbone, take two. :-)

Occasion: Church and lunch
Blazer: Urban Behavior, approx. $30
Shirt: Banana Republic, $15
Belt: American Eagle/Filene's Basement, $5
Jeans: American Eagle, $33
Boots: Aldo, $75
Brooch: Banana Republic, $15
Purse: Juicy Couture/Neiman Marcus Last Call, $115
Watch: Michael Kors, Christmas present
Scarf: c/o The Vintage Scarf  - (receive 20% OFF with code FASHION20 until 2/28!)

Today's Everyday Fashion: The Company Party

Every year the hub's company throws a huge (400 people) party at lovely resort in Washington D.C. This is my fourth year attending, and we always have so much fun! (probably because I have the best date ever) I turned to an oldie but a goodie for my dress. It is the most expensive item I own. I purchased it two summers ago for a wedding and never looked back. After all, a. it will (probably) never go out of style and b. makes my zero curve body look like Marilyn Monroe - sometimes that extra money is totally worth it! :-)

Why this works: For a company party or wedding, pick one part of your body to show off. Here I chose my upper body - the long skirt balances all the skin I'm showing up top. This type of bustier dress is great for small-busted women like me, but would be too much (or not enough, rather) for a larger bust.

Dress: Guess by Marciano, $200
Belt: Express (came with another dress)
Necklace: c/o Stella & Dot
Purse: TJ Maxx/Juicy Couture, $70
Shoes: Marshalls/Guess, $30

A few drinks and much dancing later... :-)

Photo Shoot with Andi Mans

Here's lookin' at you, kid.

This week I had the opportunity to take photos with Andi Mans, an amazing Orlando photographer. She is so sweet, gorgeous and made me feel completely at ease. Check out her website to see tons more photos from our shoot and some outfit suggestions I put together for her clients on "what to wear to a photo shoot." Let me know what you think in the comments section!!

Dress: Express
Belt: Express
Necklace: JcPenney
Headpiece: on loan from Other People's Property
Shoes: Shoe Carnival

Someone get this girl a book deal! This screams back cover.

Enjoying the fro yo (and colorful furniture) at Tutti Frutti

I even dress cute when I hang out in alleys

Blazer: Gap
Shirt: Forever 21
Jeans: Gap
Belt: Gap
Shoes: Ross/BCBG
Watch: Michael Kors
Bracelets: Banana Republic, H&M

Yep, I'm pretty sure Andi did an amazing job!

Five Easy Fashion Resolutions for 2011

Do you have a resolution to be more fashionable in 2011? Here are five easy fashion goals, with tips on how to achieve all of them!

(This is a guest post for Shecky's, to see it on their website click here.)

1. Wear more color

Is your closet full of black, gray and other neutrals? Sounds like it's time to insert some color into your wardrobe! If you are unsure about a color one way to start is to buy a bottom like this red skirt, which keeps the color away from your face. Another tip: take baby steps. Pair your new colorful pieces with all neutrals and let that one colorful piece shine!

Navy blazer: Gap, $70
Shirt: TJ Maxx, $15
Skirt: The Unique Closet, $39.50
Shoes: Restricted/Endless.com, $39

Just like J:
Unique Closet skirt, $39.50
Restricted pumps, $34.99
Gap blazer, $98

2. Try a new shape

Are all of your tops v-necks and crewnecks? It could be time to try something new. A batwing sweater (shown here), a cowlneck, or a shawlneck are all flattering and fun options. And remember: if you are wearing a top with lots of volume, be sure to keep your bottom half slim with a skinny, bootcut or a straight-leg pant.

Sweater: The Unique Closet, $38
Jeans: Gap, $30
Boots: The Tannery (a Boston boutique)

Just like J:
Unique Closet sweater, $38
Lands End gray jeans, $23.99
Zappos boots, $99

3. Remix your closet

Trust me when I say that your closet is an untapped resource full of new outfits waiting to happen! This year, resolve to remix your wardrobe in new and different ways. Here, I show you three ways to wear a LBD: 1. With a turtleneck for extra coverage. 2. With a colorful jacket and tights. 3. Worn as a skirt with a blouse thrown over it. Have some fun in your closet this year!

Dress (throughout): The Unique Closet, $39.50
Necklace (throughout): JcPenney, $20
Turtleneck (first photo): Gap, $20
Pumps (first photo): Calvin Klein/Filene's Basement, $70
Blue jacket (second photo): Alice Temperely/Target, $40
Boots (second-fourth photos): Cynthia Rowley/TJ Maxx, $85
Striped shirt (third photo): TJ Maxx, $15

Just like J:
Unique Closet Strapless Dress, $39.50
JcPenney necklace, $24.99
Macy's turtleneck, $12

4. Wear more patterns

I used to think that I would get bored with patterns quickly so I never bought them. Now I'm realizing that they are really versatile and can be worn with many different outfits. Still not sure? Start with something easy with neutral colors and a pattern that's not too busy, such as the shirt here. Also, think of your patterned shirt as just another solid - a regular ivory shirt would also work in this outfit, but the addition of polka dots is even cuter!

Shirt: The Unique Closet, $36.50
Cardigan: Banana Republic, $35
Belt: Gap, $10
Jeans: Gap, $30
Shoes: Restricted/Endless.com, $39

Just like J:
Unique Closet shirt, $36.50
Gap cardigan in Dew Drop, $39.50
Lands End gray jeans, $23.99
Restricted pumps, $34.99

5. Have fun with accessories

The quickest and easiest way to update an outfit is to add some fun accessories. They are inexpensive and make a big difference. Without the leopard belt and necklaces in this photo, the outfit would be just another ho-hum collared shirt. Resolve to add some spice to your outfits this year with fun accessories!

Shirt: JCrew, $15
Jeans: Gap, $33
Belt: Urban Outfitters, $20
Boots: Aldo, $75
Diamond necklace: LOFT, $15
Fringe necklace: Stella & Dot

Just like J:
Ralph Lauren leopard belt, $24.99
Stella & Dot fringe necklace, $89
Gap cargo shirt, $59.50

Please note: the Unique Closet items featured in this post do not belong to me, they were borrowed for this post. All other items are my regular 'ole clothes.

Today's Everyday Fashion: A Preppy Twist

I love how Shopbop took the ultimate preppy look - a collared shirt and sweater - and gave it a 'tude (photo left). They inspired me to pair my preppy top with some skinny cargos, rockin' boots and a sparkly necklace - for this look, it's all in the details!

Styling tip: A sweater/collared shirt combo is classic look for women and perfect for the office. Try adding some fun updates to your look such as unexpected shoes, a belt and fun jewelry.

Occasion: Work
Photo left: Shopbop.com
Sweater: American Eagle, $30
Shirt: Ralph Lauren outlet, $20
Cargos: TJ Maxx, $17
Belt: Express
Boots: Cynthia Rowley/TJ Maxx, $85
Necklace: JcPenney, $20

Today's Everyday Fashion: Runway to Reality

Runway looks can be tough to re-create - they are, after all, the highest form of fashion fantasy. But this look from Tibi was just what I needed to pull this plaid blazer out of the back of my closet! It may be more than 5 years old, but now I'm loving it paired with wool pants and a ruffled blouse for work.

Styling tip: Most experts will tell you to get rid of a piece of clothing if you haven't worn it in 6 months to a year. But I recommend being a bit more of a pat-rack. My advice is to get rid of anything that doesn't fit or is worn out, bottoms that are out of style and anything that feels too young to you (we all outgrow our style eventually). Things to keep are blazers, items with intricate beading or sequins, and anything that you still love. You might just be tired of an item or need to wait until it comes back into style. I have been so thankful on many occasions for the pieces I held onto and this blazer is a great example!

Occasion: Work
Photo left: Tibi runway
Blazer: Express (more than 5 years old)
Shirt: Banana Republic, $15
Pants: Gap, $15
Belt: American Eagle/Filene's Basement, $5
Shoes: Restricted/Endless.com, $39

Best Dressed at the Golden Globes

These are my picks for "best dressed" at the Golden Globes last night! (Kyra Sedgwick was my #7 pick) What were your favorites?

Today's Everyday Fashion: Flares are Back

I have sooo been looking forward to wearing these jeans that I scored at Gap for $15 a couple weeks ago. Don't get me wrong, I still love my skinny jeans, but I'm also excited that flares have come back in style full-force! Tell me - what is your favorite style pants to wear and why?

Why this works: My favorite thing about skinny pants is that you can wear any shoe height and they work. For pants this flared though, it's important to get the right heel height so the bells look just right. With a heel too short the bells will "puddle" and look sloppy, and with heels too high your pants will be too short.

Occasion: Church and errands
Leather jacket: Banana Republic, $150
Shirt: Ralph Lauren outlet, $20
Belt: H&M
Jeans: Gap, $15
Shoes: Restricted/Endless.com, $39
Diamond necklace: LOFT, $15
Fringe necklace: c/o Stella & Dot Stylist Lori McMinn
Purse: Juicy Couture/Neiman Marcus Last Call, $115
Watch: Michael Kors, Christmas present
Bracelets: Banana Republic, $10-15

Today's Everyday Fashion: The Shopping Trip

Occasion: Shopping
T-shirt: Forever 21, $16
Jeans: American Eagle, $33
Belt: H&M
Boots: Bakers, $95
Necklace: c/o Designs by Mandi
Watch: Michael Kors, Christmas present
Bracelets: Banana Republic, $10-15
Purse: Juicy Couture/Neiman Marcus Last Call, $115

Here's the picture I tweeted yesterday of my new $4 H&M bracelets - they are the top two (black and small diamonds). The other 3 bracelets are by Banana Republic!

Today's Everyday Fashion: The Snowstorm

Between the snowstorms across the country and the chilly temperatures in Florida, I've been feeling a little cold-weather inspired lately. So I decided to put together an outfit fit for a snowstorm based on this photo (left) from Refinery29.com!

Why this works: Black is slimming, but pile on enough black layers and you'll start to look like a blimp. Adding a bright layer breaks up the black and adds visual interest!

Occasion: Snowstorm
Photo left: Refinery29.com
Coat: Express
Sweater: H&M, $18
Jeans: Gap, $35
Necklace: Forever 21, $6
Boots: Forever 21, $33
Scarf: H&M, $13
Hat: Nine West/Macy's, $20

Today's Everyday Fashion: Blogger Dinner

I had the pleasure of dining with some lovely Orlando bloggers last night to talk social media, blog hosting and comment moderation (that might sound a bit boring but it was a blast!). It was really cold, so I dressed accordingly. I have been obsessed with this Cat Deeley look forever and while my jacket is navy, not green, I decided to copy her look anyway. I threw on my faux fur collar from H&M for extra warmth and off I went!

Styling tip: If you own a fur collar such as this one, you can easily turn it into a scarf. I simply used a large safety pin to attach the two ends together. When I arrived at the restaurant, I removed it by just slipping it over my head. Easy peasy!

Occasion: Blogger dinner
Photo left: FabSugar.com
Navy jacket: LOFT, $50
Belt: Forever 21, $8
Black jeans: Gap, $35
Boots: Cynthia Rowley/TJ Maxx, $85
Faux fur collar: H&M, $15
Watch: Michael Kors (Christmas present)
Earrings: Urban Outfitters, $5

ps. There is some slight variation in the photos because I took the right one on my way out the door. I couldn't find a black t-shirt and I was in a hurry, so I had to go with a gray one. Life happens. :-)

Today's Everyday Fashion: The Vintage Scarf

What does a fashionista wear to a business lunch? This is my answer right here. :-) Technically, I'm wearing a plain sweater over a white collared shirt, which has been done a million times over. But the fit and textures and little touches are what truly make this outfit tres chic!

Why this works: The key to this outfit is the white collared shirt. A regular, stiff collared shirt wouldn't look quite right with the tails hanging down this low. But this particular H&M shirt is super-sheer and thin, which looks great paired with heavy wool pants (a silk shirt would also have the same effect).

Occasion: Business lunch
Photo left: InStyle magazine
Sweater: Gap, $20
Shirt: H&M, $13
Pants: Gap, $15
Brooch: Banana Republic, $15
Shoes: Endless.com/Restricted, $39
Purse: Juicy Couture
Watch: Michael Kors
Scarf: c/o The Vintage Scarf, $19.99

One of my favorite details in today's outfit is this scarf from The Vintage Scarf! If you are looking for authentic, one-of-a-kind vintage scarves for under $20 then you should definitely check them out. I'm looking forward to wearing my silk square knotted around my neck and as a shirt in the summer!