Cool and Calm

This summer pastel colors are making a big splash.  Pinks, aquas, butter yellow and peach are some of my favorites. They are a nice reprieve from the super bright colors don't you think?

While in New Orleans last summer, I purchased this dress to stay cool while visiting the Garden District and the French Quarter. It was most certainly a good investment because it seems we are going to have a scorching summer.

So while I am pretty and cool in my pastels, I think I'll have some sherbert!

Dress - Langford Market of New Orleans

Purse - e-Bay

Necklace - White House Black Market (old)

Belt - J. Crew (old)

Floral Fantasies

I must be honest here. I hate florals. I'm not kidding! Many of them are just too..too..old lady-ish (if that's a word). On the other hand, I didn't want to get left out in the cold on this year's floral trend without at least giving it the old college try. So I have been searching and searching for a floral that I could proudly wear. And I found it with this blouse from Old Navy! I think the bright colors on the white background and the lack of greenery is what won me over.

What about you? Will you be wearing florals this summer? If you do, I promise not to call you "grandma"!

Blouse - Old Navy

Shorts - J. Crew 

Belt - J.Crew (similar here)

Shoes - Ricky by Kelsi Dagger via Belk

Purse - free gift with purchase

Rain Drops and Lollipops

So sorry for the late post today! I took the kids swimming and since I didn't want to scare anyone with a picture of me in my swimsuit, I waited until after I was done meeting one of my decorating clients. And wouldn't you know it? It not only started to rain, it poured! I had to drive through a tree (as opposed to over it - it was that big!) that fell in her drive while we were working. I rushed home and made my hubby take these pics of my bright outfit. The daylight was waning but my outfit was so bright I thought the pics turned out pretty good ;)

Ikat blouse, pencil skirt & purse - J. Crew Outlet (shirt - similar) (skirt - similar) (bag - similar)

Shoes - Kelsi Dagger via Piperlime

The Laid Back CEO

The Laid Back CEO by jdunphy featuring a blue denim vest

Ichi tank dress
€40 - welikefashion.com

Vero Moda blue denim vest
£38 - fashionunion.com

Zara patent heels
$50 - zara.com

Element logo tote bag
$54 - swell.com

Banana republic jewelry
$50 - bananarepublic.gap.com

Gold tone jewelry
£13 - riverisland.com

MR1009 Faith, Hope, Love | Crafts, Etc! ®
$6.99 - craftsetc.com

Memorial Day Style

 

Sales, Sales, Sales!

 

ASOS.com

20% off select summer styles through May 28th.

Banana Republic
Mystery Sale! Up to 40% off online & in stores. Log on or stop by to see what discount you will receive.

J. Crew
Extra 30% off sale. Online only. Code LOVEIT.

Last Call by Neiman Marcus
Extra 30% off entire purchase on-line and in stores. Ends May 29th. FREE shipping with $75 purchase through May 30th. Code LC75MAY.

Lucky Brand
Extra 30% off sale in stores and online. Ends May 28th.

LuLu's.com
Extra 25% off all sale items and FREE shipping through May 28th. Use code MEMORIAL.

Via Spiga
Free shipping on all orders through June 6.

Summer and Snakes

We took this picture at a historic one-room school house in our area. It sits on a hill with an enormous tree next to it. When I am there I think about the children who actually attended school in this building.  

On this day I was terrified as I saw a snake that I nearly stepped on. As I was walking, I said to myself "What is that orange and black thing?".  I got closer, bending down to check it out, only to find out it was a snake! Yes, I screamed and yes, for a moment, I was frozen.  So, now I am going about my day a little shaken but hopefully looking put together. 

Shirt - J Crew

Skirt - J. Crew Factory

Necklace - Ebay similar to J. Crew

Shoes - Piperlime

Handbag - Zara

Pink Paisley

It's the first full day of summer vacation and I am feeling a bit pinkish. I simply couldn't resist this paisley top by J. Crew. It's a silk/cotton blend that is light enough to wear in the summer. Paired with some coral-ish pink shorts, it's perfect for the first day of summer break.

Gotta go...I just heard the first "Mom, I'm bored!". It's gonna be a long one...

Blouse - J. Crew

Belt & Bracelet - J. Crew (similar) and (similar)

Shorts - Banana Republic

Purse - Zara

Shoes - Sam Edelman via Belk

Simply Summer

It's finally here...the very last day of school. The kids get out a noon and no more school until August. It's time to celebrate! But what to wear? A bright Vince Camuto maxi dress, what else? I absolutely love this color combination of navy, red and fuchsia. I paired the denim vest with it because it was a bit chilly in the morning, but I am sure it will be coming off at the after school picnic. The dress is made of heavy weight polyester and oh, so comfy.

I'm off now. Gotta run 369 errands by noon! Happy Day!

Dress - Vince Camuto via Belk (similar)

Denim Vest - J. Crew

T-strap Sandals - Sam Edelman (similar) via Belk

Clutch - Forever 21 (similar)

Bracelets - American Eagle (similar) or (similar)

School Days

Today is the last full day of school for my kids - woo hoo! I know, I know, ask me this time next week and I'll be counting the days until they go back. I am just glad not to be packing lunches anymore.

My outfit today is a gorgeous sheer blue lace dress with a built-in nude slip by Sanctuary. It was love at first sight! Not only is it my favorite color, blue, but the print is just so interesting (kind of Aztec-y) and the fit is fabulous. I can dress it up or down. And with the kids out of school, you know there will be a lot more dressing down than up going on! 

I thought the red accessories really made the dress pop! and the striped espadrilles kept it from looking too dressy. So what do you think? Is this the perfect summer-at-home-with-the-kids dress you've been looking for?

Dress - Sanctuary (similar) via Belk (similar)

Espadrilles - Madewell

Belt - J. Crew (similar)

Purse - gift with purchase

Bangles - Forever 21

Aztec Print

One of the biggest trends for the summer is the Aztec and Middle Eastern prints like ikat and suzanni. This trend has made its way from the home-front where you can find pillows, bedding and upholstery showcasing these beautiful prints. I love these prints for the home but have been hesitant to buy clothes in these prints. I fell in love with this Aztec print top by Sanctuary though. I got it at Belk and found that it was the perfect mate for my denim pencil skirt and Lucky Brand hobo. 

Will you embrace this trend or let it pass?

Top - Sanctuary (similar) via Belk

Skirt - J. Crew (similar)

Purse - Lucky Brand (similar)

Shoes - Nine West (similar)

Bracelets - American Eagle (similar)

Success!

I ended up doing more than rug shopping yesterday. My clients and I also went furniture shopping. So in order to appear professional, yet cool and comfortable, I opted for a fun summer skirt (I swear it has a pattern on it!) with a linen blazer a pop of color so as not to appear too serious. I think it worked, too. We not only picked out a rug, but got all of the furniture ordered. Success is so sweet!

Blazer - Banana Republic Outlet

Skirt - J. Crew (old) Click hear for similar.

Tee - J. Crew

Shoes - Lucky Brand via Piperlime

Purse - Etienne Aigner via TJ Maxx

Necklace - (similar) Ann Taylor (old)

Cuff Bracelet - Vince Camuto

Icy Spots

I was feeling just a teeny bit wild yesterday so I paired my ice blue Gap chinos with my J. Crew leopard print blouse. The cool blue played down the boldness of the leopard print. And since I was running around looking for rugs for a client, I threw on some comfy shoes and a well-loved bag. I still haven't found the perfect rug yet so I am off again today in search of rugs. Tune in tomorrow to see what I wore!

The Old Standby

I absolutely love this striped dress by J. Crew. Since it is long sleeved and made of a heavy cotton, I am trying to wear it as much as possible before the humidity sets in. Paired with a denim vest and strappy sandals, it is the perfect run around town dress for spring.

What is your one piece of clothing you can't live without?

Dress - J. Crew (similar)

Denim Vest - J. Crew

Strappy Leopard Print Sandals - Target

Bracelets - American Eagle (similar)

Nordstrom Summer 2012 Cosmetics Trend Show

What will get women up on a Saturday at 7:30 am? A cosmetics event at Nordstrom, the first ever in Nashville! When you arrived at the event you were given an orange bag filled with some goodies and a continental breakfast of orange, lemon, and vanilla cupcakes along with coffee and water were served. There were give-aways during the breakfast and I won a cosmetic bag from Phyto for answering a question.  

Around 8 am we were allowed in the store.  As you walked in the store, the employees from each counter lined the walkway taking our pictures like the paparazzi, handing out samples as we walked in.  This was a little overwhelming if you hadn't had your coffee yet, but also exciting.

I wanted to be seated on the front row so I had to make a mad dash to the seats.  No, I didn't run and scream but I casually walked briskly to the front row. 

Finally, the show began with young girls dressed in the current neon colors, sheer lace tops, and some very short dresses.  Each scene brought out the experts of their product line.  We heard from Clarisonic, Dior, Lancome, Nars, Cle de Peau Beaute, and Arcona.   After each expert spoke there was a give away from that product line.  I didn't get that lucky to win one of those.  One giveaway was worth $750.  Now that is what I call a giveaway! 

So, what did I learn?  Coral is the new color for lips this season.  Also you will be seeing a lot of coral in clothing as we transition from summer to fall.

After the show completed, everyone was encouraged to visit each of the counters to try the new products. Your ticket purchase for this event went toward a purchase at one of the cosmetic counters.  I settled on a lip gloss from Chanel that won't come off until you take it off at night..I will let you know how it works later.

Although the fashion show was long and I had to rise a bit early for a Saturday, it was fun. Put it on your calendar for next year!

Mother's Day & Target

Did you take a look at Target's newest lines called "The Shops"? This time they brought in a clothing line for both men and women called The Webster, located in Miami. The line was started by two fashion industry friends who dreamt of someday having their own boutique. The designs are reminiscent of hot, sultry days and salsa-dancing nights. Each piece is comfortable, très chic and very affordable. I purchased the shift (only $39.99) to wear for Mother's Day and found that it went perfect with my coral shoes and structured purse. What did you wear on your special day?

Shift - The Webster for Target

Shoes - Banana Republic

Purse - Vintage Monsac (similar)

Live from Belk at Cool Springs Galleria

Hail to Royal Blue

In case you haven't noticed, I love the color blue. And this spring's hot color, royal blue, suits me just fine. Therefore, when I found this crinkly maxi skirt at Gap, you know I had to have it! I love the laid-back elegance of the silky material and when paired with a casual tee, my urban persona overshadows my suburban life. LOL!

Skirt - Gap

Washed out sailboat tee - Gap

Sandals - Sam Edelman

Hobo bag - Lucky Brand (similar)

Bracelets - J. Crew (similar)

Tug O' War

It's spring, it's summer, it's spring, it's summer...Mother nature can't seem to make up her mind around here. But don't get me wrong. I am not complaining. Whether it's been cool or smokin' hot, it's been a nice, sunny spring. All it really means is that it's a challenge to get dressed in the mornings and I love it! Today I met Mother Nature's challenge head on. It's a bit cool this morning with mid-70's predicted for the afternoon, so I opted for jeans with a wide leg. They will keep me warm but not cling as the day warms up. My leopard print blouse will also stay cool because it's not clingy either. The open weave sweater, which is a fashion must right now, can be quickly discarded as the temperature rises.
What will you wear on challenging days?

Jeans - Anthropologie

Blouse - J. Crew Factory

Sweater - Forever 21 (similar)

Bag - J. Crew (similar)

Bangles - Forever 21(similar)

Mother's Day is Coming!

Treat mom early this year with a  special event at Belk this Friday, May 11, 2012.  Starting at 10 am, the Lancome counter will feature a makeup artist event with Ricardo Costales.  Ricardo is a Paris-trained master of makeup.  He got his start doing makeup for models at runway shows then moved on to commericals.   Ricardo's philosophy is that every woman who leaves his chair should feel like she looks 20 years younger, more beautiful, and validated about her beauty!  

So when is the last time you got a make over?  Are you still wearing blue eyeshadow from the 80s?  I mean, how can you turn down a chance to look 20 years younger?!  Call Belk to reserve your spot at  615-771-3213 x268.  Or stop by the store and visit the Lancome counter to make your reservation.  Hope to see you there!

Girls' Night Out

I am a big, big, BIG fan of girls' night out, aka GNO. Every girl, mom, wife, woman should have one once in awhile. And it doesn't matter what you do, as long as it is just girls.

My two friends and I went to great little place in Brentwood called The Wild Iris. They have great food, great drinks and an awesome atmosphere. It's also the perfect place for a date night. That is, if you want to let your man in on the location of your girls' nights!

Jacket - Tommy Hilfiger Outlet store

Blouse - J. Crew

Necklace - J. Crew via e-Bay

Pants - Banana Republic

Shoes - Lucky Brand

Purse - free item with purchase ;)

Stripe-on-Stripe

I decided to give the pattern-on-pattern trend a try yesterday. May pallet was red, white and two blues - navy plus a pop of royal. By staying in the same color family I was able to keep the mixed patterns from becoming too busy. 

What do you think? Will you try mixing up your stripes, polka dots or any other patterns?

Top - Banana Republic

Skirt - J. Crew Factory

Purse - e-Bay

Necklace & Bangels - J. Crew (similar necklace) & bracelet

Belt - J. Crew

Shoes - Lucky Brand via Piperlime

#7 - The Neutral Bag

Last but not least for your spring hit-list is the neutral bag, tote, purse, clutch, whatever! Just be sure it's neutral and pair it with your favorite spring essentials.

Spring Essentials Checklist

1) Striped Shirt - This versatile item is a MUST-HAVE for both spring and summer. Wear it with jeans, shorts, a suit or a skirt.

2) Pencil Skirt - The pencil skirt is flattering on everyone! Try a bright one in a cotton or linen fabric to take you right through the summer months.

3) Neutral Shoes - Neutral shoes can be worn with anything, anywhere.

4) Accessories - Accessories help pull any outfit together.

5) Blazer - Blazers turn any outfit into office appropriate attire.

6) Bright Pants - Bright pants liven up any outfit. Wear them cropped, straight, wide-legged or as shorts and pair them with a striped shirt and viola! You are ready for spring.


7) Neutral Bag - J. Crew (similar)

Spring Essential #6

Number 6 Bright Pants: Choose a color, any color, and you will be spot-on for spring!

Spring Essentials Checklist

1) Striped Shirt - This versatile item is a MUST-HAVE for both spring and summer. Wear it with jeans, shorts, a suit or a skirt.

2) Pencil Skirt - The pencil skirt is flattering on everyone! Try a bright one in a cotton or linen fabric to take you right through the summer months.

3) Neutral Shoes - Neutral shoes can be worn with anything, anywhere.

4) Accessories - Accessories help pull any outfit together.

5) Blazer - Blazers turn any outfit into office appropriate attire.

6) Bright Pants - J. Crew

Spring Essential #5

Number 5: This is the outfit from yesterday. In order to make it work-appropriate all I did was add a blazer. It also adds a little warmth from the cool spring air. Of course, that's really not necessary right now in Tennessee as we are seeing temperatures way above normal!

Spring Essentials Checklist

1) Striped Shirt - This versatile item is a MUST-HAVE for both spring and summer. Wear it with jeans, shorts, a suit or a skirt.

2) Pencil Skirt - The pencil skirt is flattering on everyone! Try a bright one in a cotton or linen fabric to take you right through the summer months.

3) Neutral Shoes - Neutral shoes can be worn with anything, anywhere.

4) Accessories - Accessories help pull any outfit together.

5) Blazer - Banana Republic