Q&A with J

Have a question that's not answered here?
Email me at jseverydayfashion@gmail.com - I'm always happy to help!

J, why do you blog?
Please see my About section here!

J, how do you recommend looking stylish everyday?
For me, it’s all about planning ahead. I would consider myself mostly type-A and not all that creative, so I spend some time each weekend brainstorming, where I think up new outfits to wear each week. I shut the door, put on some music and seriously get into the zone. This is also when I take the pictures for the blog (in one chunk). I am SO not a morning person and I'm always running late, so I've found that having some outfit ideas already in mind really helps. There is always something to be said for spontaneous dressing – but I usually save that for weekends, and will throw something together and take a pic and post it the same day. Doing this blog though, and spending this much time thinking ahead about my clothes has definitely made me a better dresser! I recommend taking a “planning ahead approach” to dressing for everyone.

J. why can’t I find the items pictured on your blog?
The one downfall of being a bargain hunter is that the same bargains can be hard for others to find, plus many of my items are more than 5 years old. This is why I started posting pictures of my shopping finds as soon as I get them, and posting shopping look-alikes. I would encourage you though to keep an eye out for something similar – the best part about fashion is that you don’t need the EXACT items in an outfit to get the same look. Find something that is already in your closet, or the awesome finds that YOU stumble on and go from there!

J, how in the world did you score that deal?
This post spills many of my retail secrets. (It is specifically written about Banana, but applies to other stores as well.) I try to "learn the retail rhythm," I keep an eye on how long items have been in the store, so I’ll know when they are planning to slash prices. I also sign up for coupons/emails from companies so I know what the latest promotions are. If you ever have a question about a specific item or deal, though, please feel free to post a comment under that item and I’ll let you know how I scored that deal.

J, what do you do for work?
I worked in corporate marketing for 5 years. My job ended in October 2010 due to budget cuts, and after a bumpy year of living on zero income, I am now proud to say that I am a successful entrepreneur and freelancer. J's Everyday Fashion is 90% of what I do, and I am also the Shopping Expert for VISIT FLORIDA, have a makeover show on IzonOrlando, and do personal shopping and style consulting. For more info, see "Hire Me."

J. who are you and why are you an authority on fashion?
I grew up in Kansas. I graduated from the University of Kansas in 2005 with a BS in Journalism and a BA in Communication Studies. I moved to Boston after school and lived there for 4 years. I moved to Orlando in 2009 and absolutely love it here.

One of the funny things about this blog is that I'm really not an authority on fashion. That's part of the appeal - I am just an average girl, so if I can do this stuff, then you guys definitely can too! My sense of style is completely self-taught. I didn’t grow up fashionable, no one in my family is particularly interested in it. For some reason in college I started experimenting and really started to love the creative outlet it provides. I also paint (see pics below), but fashion is a way to wear your art, literally, and express how you’re feeling every single day.

J, what size do you wear?
I’m 5’7” and I wear a size 0 on top and a size 2 on the bottom. I wear a size 26 in jeans. And my least favorite part about my body - I wear a 9.5 or 10 in shoes.

A note about this: please don’t feel like you need to be the same size as me to wear all the outfits I post! No matter what your size, you can use the color palette for inspiration and look for similar pieces that fit your body specifically. Let me know if you have questions on what body type works for specific outfits by leaving a comment on that outfit and I am happy to help.

J, what is your exercise/”how’d you get those legs” routine?
This is such a sweet question and I really wish I had some secret leg workout that I could share with you all. I get my legs from my mom, and I think wearing heels helps tone your calves. For more info on my workout routine, see this previous blog post.

J, where did you get your tan?
I'm American Indian, so my skin is naturally very olive. I also tan very easily and I live in Florida, so although I use SPF, I can get quite dark. I do not use self tanners, tanning beds or spray tan.  

Xoxo,
J.






























72 comments:

  1. i found your blog via meghann's and i LOVE it! keep up the stylish work :)

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  2. How do you know which colours suit you best? If I wore a pale yellow cardigan I think I would look like a ghost! LOVE your blog girl!! Catrina. ...http://loveittoday.wordpress.com/

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  3. Thank you Janetha, so glad you like it!

    Catrina, I don't have a method really other than trying it on before I buy it to make sure it looks okay. Yellow is a hard color though - different shades suit different people!

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  4. LOVE LOVE LOVE your blog and your style! I just found it through Janetha and I'm already hooked.

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  5. Love the blog such an inspiration. Love your shape the clothes look great on you. I was showing my hubby all the fashion blogs I like and all the different kinds. He said you were his favorite you dress the best!

    http://iwannaknowbelle.blogspot.com/

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  6. Love your blog, I am way too old to wear most of the clothes but I think you are really good with your fashion sense and love the fact that you show it does not have to break the bank. Mix and Match,keep an eye out, also, just for info I get some of my favorite stuff second hand- used that is, sometimes witih the tags still on actually. Thanks for being there for all the young women out there!!!

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  7. I would love to know what you consider the "staples" of your closet.. I see key pieces in some of your outfits and wonder what your standard basics are?? : ) LOVE your style, always fabulous!

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  8. Thanks everyone!!

    To the Anonymous question about staples in my closet. I really think that "staples" are different for every single woman and that you shouldn't try to follow any list (including mine!), but really try to make your own. Things I can't live without are:

    - white jeans
    - cognac belts and shoes
    - v-neck pocket t-shirts
    - turquoise jewelry
    - cutoff jean shorts
    - statement necklaces
    - pencil skirts in tons of colors
    - ruffled blouses
    - navy blazer

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  9. I had to check out your blog because of the AMAZING outfits you keep posting on the J Crew and Banana Facebook walls. Gawd, I am so jealous of your natural talent to put outfits of such high caliber (looks-wise) for such a small investment! I will definitely be following your blog. Question - if I need an idea for an outfit, can I email you? Just bought a skirt I heart for $5 on clearance but no idea what to wear with it for a shirt since the skirt is so flouncy. Thanks :)

    Kerri

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  10. Kerri, I'm so glad you stopped by! Thanks for following. :-) Definitely feel free to email me for outfit ideas. It usually takes me 2-4 days to answer my emails.

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  11. Came here after your post to the J Crew aficionada blog and I have to say that I am impressed! You are a talent and have a terrific aesthetic. Your outfits are perfect for your fabulous figure (and those legs are envious)I am definitely going to follow you for more creative insight and LOVE that you accomplish this on $250/month! Excellent work..you go girl=)

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  12. Sweetsy, Thank you so much! I'm so glad you like the blog and thanks for following! :-)

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  13. i'm really liking your blog!!! i can't wait to see all of your finds and outfits!

    jillian xoxo
    http://just-jillian.blogspot.com

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  14. Hi I just stumbled across your blog. Its awesome! you are so stylish and omg i'm jealous of your legs :) lol . I'm not a loyal fan so keep up the great work :)

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  15. J- you look BETTER than the stars! Love your "natural" talent and your great looks. I'm 55, size 6-8 and still love dressing nicely (even when I go to the doctor-lol) I'm pretty good at putting it all together, but how do I do it "correctly" at my age ( know you're not there yet)? Can't do the short-shorts or skirts for sure. Plus I live in Houston, so you're familiar w/the inability to layer much of the year. I'm a total TJMAXX shopper and have found great things there. Say instead of the tight, straight leg jeans, what would substitute? And one last thing- are tops getting shorter again- I sure hope not!

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  16. Thank you Jillian and Jess! :-)

    Mbj, thank you! Dark denim that goes straight down from your hip to the floor is a good look for anyone, no matter their age (just ask What Not to Wear). For most people, that is a straight or bootcut type of jean. Jeans are definitely something that are worth spending more $ on, so I would try Nordstrom and some of their less-expensive designer denim. As for tops getting shorter, I haven't noticed that. I think they are still really long for the most part, which I love! You can tuck them, belt them or wear them out, it's great!

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  17. Love your blog! You do such a great job on your outfits. I do have a question though. I am petite and here at work it is so casual. I just wear bootcut jeans and cute tops with necklaces or some big earrings. Don't have the skinny legs so I can't get away with skinny jeans. Where do you get the belts? I'm always weird about those. Not thinking they will look good with tops I have. How do you know to put big or little belts with a top or dress? Keep up the great work!

    Thanks for sharing this blog.

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  18. Hi! I am wondering if you have any tips for wearing heels! Every time I wear them I can barely tolerate them for longer than 20 mins. I am on the verge on giving up on them permanently, but I feel that they definitely make any outfit more stylish and sexy, and would love to be able to wear them all day like other girls I see.

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  19. Hello! I just found your blog and was reading up on past entries. I loved the one about how to belt a cardigan. But one question...have you found that your belts needs to be a little longer so that you can do the cool over/under tie thing?

    Thanks!

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  20. J,
    I have been following your blog and just wanted to compliment you on how fashionable you are! I have a few upcoming concerts I am going to and absolutely love the navy blue strapless ruffle dress that you posted over the summer (I think its from Forever 21). I can't find anything like it and was wondering if you had any other suggestions of something similiar! Thank you very much!

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  21. Hey J, I was wondering what would you wear to a bachelorette party if you didn't know to much about the night. The invitation doesn't say much and I am going with a friend. Any heads up would be much appreciated. Thanks, Amanda

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  22. Hi J,

    I'm a 31 year old mom. I've never been a fashionable person. I do love fashion, but I don't know how to put outfits together. I guess I'm scared to look teenagery when I'm not or too old when I'm not. How do I know what outfits to put together and which ones will look good for me? I love that you have this website for people like me. I would definitely wear most of your outfits. HELP!

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  23. Hi J,

    I'm hooked to your blog. Now everyday i come into work and check your webpage to see what you're wearing. I love it, everyday it's different and cute. I wish i had such creativity and commitment.
    By the way, i would love some advice on how to wear loafers in a chic style(i think that's what they call them, they look like running shoes but a little more sleek!).
    You seriously so awesome, i wish i had someone like you around me to inspire me everyday. But i guess u are through the internet :)
    please keep up the awesome blog.

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  24. Hi I am a woman blogger and I live in Ormond Beach, FL its about an hour fom Orlando, but I would love to do a meet up.

    thanks Yvonne

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  25. I found your blog after you left a guest post today at Pb Fingers. I love all of the great tips and tricks I have learned, just from the few posts I have read.
    After reading your Q&A I was excited to see that you are also a KU Grad! I am a born and raised Kansas girl and just graduated from KU in December. I love finding fellow Jayhawks in the blog world. Keep up the great fashion, I'll definitely be taking notes!

    Rock Chalk!

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  26. I found your blog after you posted on PB Fingers. I have been in a fashion/clothing rut the past few months, and after seeing all of your cute outfits, I'm excited to go shopping this weekend! The outfits you put together aren't overly complicated and are very reasonably priced. Thank you for teaching me how to put a cute outfit together!

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  27. I really enjoy checking out your blog everyday. Inspires to wear something else other than jeans and t-shirt.

    We are building a new closet in our bedroom and I would love to know how you organize all your clothes, shoes and accessories. A sneak peak into your closet would be great!

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  28. J-

    I have been inspired by your blog. I meant to take some pictures of the resulting outfits but ran out of time in the morning before work. However, I felt fantastic all day!

    You are helping me to understand color, pattern and the importance of accessories. Keep it up!

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  29. J you have such an amazing sense of style! I wish I could put together as many amazing outfits as you! Question, I know you keep your budget to 100/month, but if you could splurge on one item...what would it be?

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  30. Ladies, please email me if you have questions since I can't answer you individually here. jseverydayfashion@gmail.com - I answer every email I receive! :-)

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  31. I really enjoy your blog! I love all the pieces you put together and you inspire me to put the cute clothes in my closet to use. I get so caught up in wearing dress which is pretty much my daily uniform (in a cute way) because there's not thought that goes into but would love to add some more put together outfits.

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  32. I just discovered your blog, and I am loving it! I can always use new fashion ideas, and love the realistic approach you have.

    Oh, and I graduated from KU in 2005, too! Rock Chalk!!! :D

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  33. I have loved following your blog for a while now. Your outfits are so flattering and actually seem possible to put together. I'm curious, in addition to being very stylish, your make up look is also always very well put together. Do you have a particular skin care regime? Are there any makeup products you favor? Thanks for all the great tips I've picked up from you along the way! You make fashion seem doable!

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  34. Read your 5 minute makeup post and have want to tell you about the best mascara called Blinc. It goes on thick like false eyelashes (so you won't need to apply multiple coats) and best of all it is smudge and tear proof. To remove you only have to use warm water (no drying remover) and a gentle rub. It is the best product I have ever used. Wanted to share that with you....I love you site. Jane

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  35. Loved the Q&A J. I found your blog today via a fellow blogger and totally in love with it. You have a great sense of style. I am curious as to how are you an 'American Indian'? would you please tell that? :)

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  36. J I love your blog!! It's amazing keep up the good work in the next year.

    Also I love the shopping guide section and as an avid discount shopper I wanted to share a site with you & the other readers I recently found.
    Totsy.com they have 3 day flash sales for Women & Kids with most pieces under $20. I just ordered my first item a mustard coat (you look great in it thought I'd try mustard) for $15 I'll get back to you on quality when it comes in.

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  37. I have my prom soon and I need help about founding a perfect dress. I'm 5'3''ft tall, I weigh 119 pounds, and I'm ' curved' ( big breasts, tiny waist and wide hips ). I also have long, platinum blonde hair. What kind of dress would look best on me? Thanks . .

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  38. Just came across your site and love it! I try and copy pictures in catalogs & Magazines with similar items in my closet. My issue is I'm 5'9 size 10, 29 or 30 in jeans very athletic build (not fat just big) and it's very hard to work with my body. Any tips for big girls to pull off your cute looks??

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  39. I always look like such a schmeeb when I try tucking my shirt in--but it seems to pull your outfits together and make them look very neat! Is there a secret?

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  40. Hi J!! Your blog is fantastic and anytime I need a little inspiration I just log on and see what fabulous outfits you've put together recently! Love them all....

    Woould love to see you post some "what to wear to an all white party" ideas. Everyone usually just runs to the the white cocktail dress, but would be nice to see how you would accessorize with the white dress and see what other amazing all white outfits you could come up with.

    Have a most fantastic day and weekend!

    TGIF!

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  41. I think you do a great job on your blogs. Suggestion-take close up pictures on your jewelry, I think it will increase your on-line sales :)

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  42. Hi J-
    Any suggestions on where to buy t-shirts? Seems like the ones I find either pill, fade or stretch out....please help!

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  43. SO the OCD part of me noticed that you spelled "VISIT FLORIDA" wrong. Sorry, I just want you to sound your best!!!

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  44. Hi J.

    I am just starting a blog with a friend. (http://cuziusepinterest.blogspot.com/) I use your blog a lot for clothing ideas as I am a student teacher (hopefully real teacher soon). Your outfits inspire me to use what I have to create really cute looks that are functional in an elementary classroom.

    My question is this:
    Who takes your photos? Do you just use a self timer? I am having a heck of a time figuring that out.

    You are stunning both inside and out! Keep it up, even if I never hear back from you!

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  45. Love your blog!!! I have a blog that is similar to yours, but I love the layout o your blog and how you design your styles! I am not a big fan of my blog site either. Is this site a regular blogger site? Great job! Great styling!
    www.centsiblychic.squarespace.com

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  46. Hi J! I love your website and follow you on facebook. I'm attending a beach wedding in California in August. The wedding is considered "beach chic". What do you recommend wearing and also what type of shoes should I wear? The bride will go barefoot for the ceremony and plans to change into shoes for the reception. Any suggestions are very much appreciated. Thank you!

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  47. I am not much of a follower but I like your site. I am 47, but I think your idea cross age groups.

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  48. You have a picture of you in a white shirt with a white blazer on with jean capri's. Do you know where you got your white blazer from? I really like the shape of that blazer.

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  49. J - how do you get belts to stay on your skirts without loops? Thanks!
    Zoe

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  50. Love your site. You are very talented. Its so helpful to see someone create so many fashionable outfits for real people on real budgets. Please consider doing a show with a plus size client. I would love to see what you would do for a size 14-16 or someone who had some other flaws to hide rather than just skinny women. Thanks!

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  51. where are your CUTE cardigans from?

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  52. Hi J, I just came across your site and am fascinated! I feel like you truly speak for many women across the globe when it comes to a limited budget and fashion! I'm so glad that I came across this and just wanted to spring some encouragement your way! Keep doing a fantastic job! =)

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  53. Hi there! I ran across your blog about a month ago and now I go to it just as frequently as I do my Facebook page lol. I was wondering if you have any advice on how to keep black jeans black?? I wash in cold COLD water and resently started using the detergent for darks colors. Still no luck. My black clothes are dark grey sooner than I know it. So sad!

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  54. How can you make Toms look cute? I have a hand painted pair for USF games , but everytime i put tem on i regret my decision to have team spirit.;)

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  55. I am looking for a cute game day outfit incoprating Toms.

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  56. Hey J! I am a true copycat of your style... so lucky to have found you! Here in Norway (too cold), I can´t wear those cute skirts as much as you, but a pair of thick tights/stockings work well. Thanks for doing what you do :)... a total inspiration. :)

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  57. Love your blog! I've been following you on FB. Would love it if I could follow you on Pinterest. Is that an option in the future?

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  58. Hey J, I love your blog! I also live in Central Florida, Lake Mary and I'm finding myself in a rut- loving fall fashion but its still so hot out! what are your thoughts for wearing and incorporating fall style in this heat!? Thank you!!

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  59. Hi! I live in Florida too, and as you probably know it's been very rainy and muggy lately. What are some outfits you would recommend for days like this? Or just good outfits for a college student with a low budget? Thanks!

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  60. I'm unable to leave a comment on the actual post, but love the dress & swaps you created on last Monday's post.

    Do you happen to know if that dress is still available on piperlime or was it from an old catalog?

    Also, how do you comment on your posts?

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  61. Do you ever accept accessory gifts to showcase ? :)
    If so, my site is facebook.com/lisespieces
    I'd love to send something that you like!!!

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  62. Hi J, I found your site through Ponterest. I must say that you're very talented, your practical and creative style has come in very handy. As a mother of two with a limited budget I have new ideas of how to re-style and use my current wardrobe. I enjoy your style. Can you post some fall looks? In California we get weird weather, so layering ideas would be great. Thank you for sharing.

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  63. Found your blog on Pinterest and I'm a huge fan!! I also grew up in Kansas, but I came to TX for college and also majored in Journalism. Currently I'm working in Corporate Marketing, so it sounds like we have a lot in common! That's so amazing that you are your own entrepreneur now!

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  64. J -
    I am so glad I came across your blog via pinterest. You do such a good job of bringing style to work-appropriate outfits. I am about to graduate from law school, and have been struggling to make dressing for work at a law firm fun. Your outfits have been excellent inspiration! Thanks and Rock Chalk! Class of 2010 :)

    - IKS

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  65. HI J-
    I love your site, it's so inspirational! Ironically, I live here in Orlando too and think we know some of the same people (near downtown/Summit).
    Question: Can you please post some more casual outfits? I have two kids, but stay active and would love to see your ideas for not doing 'too' casual but functional too.
    Thanks for doing your blog- it's great!
    Sheryl

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  66. Hi J,
    I am a young doctor finishing up residency in a long distance relationship with my husband for too may years now (let's just say more than 5). Needless, to say with all the things I am required to do and expected to do, the things that I want to do have taken a far back seat. I stumbled up on your blog and its really lifted my spirits. The fashion advice aside you outlook on things is very positive and refreshing :) Thanks for blogging and rejuvenating my interest in fashion. I am looking forward to having fun following your advice and finding myself once again :)
    -P

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  67. Do you have guy models on here and do you ever give advise on how guys should dress.

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  68. Wearing fashion clothes really takes planning ahead of time. Another consideration that must be kept in mind is that, the fashion clothes that you will wear must be in-line with what is the latest trend in the fashion world.

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  69. I love your blog and outfit ideas! I am a 55 yr-young lady that loves to dress up and wear the latest trends. I am going to Florida in 2 weeks with my new boyfriend. I am wondering if you have a "packing list" I could use a guide for my 10day trip. Any help will be much appreciated!

    Debi

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  70. My name is Ruth and I am one of the co-founders of a new social network website that is going to be launched on the 9th February called Outfit Hive. Go to outfithive.com
    I am getting in touch with you as I saw your blog whilst searching on the internet. Our website is going to be a website where you can upload your style and browse other peoples too. You will be able to connect with people all over the world and search for outfit inspiration from people who are your own size and who share similar tastes. You will also be able to connect your blog with our website and get more people reading them!
    We are looking for people to join the website prior to the launch date by filling in a few details and sending over some photos for their profile.
    If you are interested please get in touch as soon as possible...as it will be on a first come basis.
    We have a facebook page that has just been set up-so if you go to it you will be able to read more there.
    www.facebook.com/outfithive
    Thanks
    Ruth
    OH! Director

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  71. Just found your blog! I'm trying to update my style on a really tight budget. I love your tips! And don't feel bad about the 9/10 shoe...right there with you! ;-)

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  72. Hi J,
    I'm looking for a particular swimsuit I seen on pintrest, can you give me advice on how to find it?
    Thanks,
    Julie

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