Showing posts with label Fashion Friday. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Fashion Friday. Show all posts

Friday, May 24, 2013

Fashion Friday: Dressing for Spring Weather

Spring is a wonderful season. Crisp, cool evenings where you can sleep with the window open and warm, breezy days. Flowers are everywhere and the air is clean and fresh. But one of difficulties of spring-time weather is that choosing work attire can be challenging. 

For one, spring is usually rainy season. For two, morning commute temps and afternoon meeting temps are drastically different, as are outdoor and indoor temps. That's why having the right essentials and dressing in layers is vital when crafting your spring work wardrobe. 

Today, I've compiled what I consider to be work-wear essentials for spring weather, regardless of the type of job you have or environment in which you work, these pieces should make your day-to-day easier and leave your closet refreshed (just like spring!)

The Clothes:

A trench coat - Yes, it's the timeless classic everyone should own anyway, but during spring, it's even more true. A twill version will provide warmth when necessary, but not too much as temps climb throughout the day. It's always a neutral color that can be layered on top of anything. 


Stripes - It's a great pattern that can be paired and layered. The options are virtually endless and this spring there have been some vertical stripe options in addition to the traditional horizontal stripe. Put a collared shirt under a striped lightweight sweater and you should be comfy all day. 

A-line skirt - It is the perfect way to transition to warmer weather and if the length is right, you can even skip the pantyhose (major plus!) Get it in a neutral that can be paired with a bright top or in a daring color that can be toned down with a classic blazer.

A flowy blouse - The perfect layering essential that transitions smoothly from the warm lunch hour to the formal, afternoon meeting. Get it in one of the hot spring colors: mint, tangerine, lemon, and pair with slack and matching jacket or a lightweight grey suit.
(tailor & stylist)

Other Essentials: 

A cute umbrella - I can't tell you how many times I've been running from appointment to appointment and all of the sudden it starts raining. It wasn't even in the forecast! After getting caught wet and frustrated a few times, I started carrying an umbrella in my car, and another, more compact one, in my work bag.

Rain Shoes - Oftentimes, I wear flip flops or another rain-resistant shoe during my commute (and for my coffee stop) and then throw on my pumps when I reach the office. That way, I'm less likely to step in a puddle (and, let's face it, I'm more comfortable for a longer time.) If it's going to be very rainy, I'll even wear my rain boots.
(aeropostale)

Sunglasses - Whether it's simply a sunny spring day, or the sun is peeking out after a rainfall, that bright glare can make running around difficult. Find an aviator style or a light-colored rim for a springier look. 
(dorothy perkins)

A no-fuss hairstyle - Carry a clip or band with you in case your hair does take a beating. That way you can craft a cute up-do or pin a few pieces in the right way before heading to meet with a client. It also helps when you want to transition to happy-hour drinks or simply want your hair off your face during and intense project.

Friday, April 12, 2013

Fashion Friday: Work-wear Inspiration

Now that I'm finally on the daily-grind part of my job (no more studying for a very, very long time!) I have shifted my daily attire away from jeans and onto suits and work-attire. My Pinterest has been very active in helping me find inspiration for dressing conservatively without being boring. Here are some looks I've pinned recently that are easy to re-create, don't require a large budget, and still keep your look from being too dull!





Go here to see more of my pinned looks! And share any inspiration you've found for dressing professionally without feeling boring or stuffy.

Friday, March 22, 2013

Fashion Friday: Spring Outfits

It finally (finally) seems to be warming up outside. The days have been beautifully warm and the snow is almost completely melted. I love this transition time, where long sleeves, cardigans, and airy scarves are staples.  The weather has gotten me (and, more importantly, the dog) outside for some long walks and I've been reading on the deck in the evenings.

Today, I decided to put together a few fashion pieces I am eyeballing for the spring weather. Simple, versatile pieces that go with everything and will last many years. And some trendier pieces that scream fun! 
Tee / Shorts
Fedora / Wedges / Belt 
Top / Cardi / Skirt 
Necklace / Pumps
Top / Pants
Aviators / Crossbody / Sandals 
Maxidress / Scarf
Flats / Bracelet

I love the "sporty" and "trendy" looks - very me. Which ones are your favorite?

Friday, March 15, 2013

Fashion Friday: Fitness Wear

Yesterday I shared with you my feelings on personal fitness and established a few goals for myself in upcoming months. As inspiration for myself (and possibly for you guys as well) I pulled together some of my favorite items for workout gear and clothing. How can you not work out in these super-cute duds?

As you know, I usually try to show budget-friendly pieces on my blog, but when it comes to workout gear, a splurge is often necessary. In the case of shoes, not buying high quality can actually lead to injury. And in my case, if I don't have a high-quality, supportive sports bra, I am going to be miserable during a workout.

Some of these pieces are still wallet-savvy, but some are definite splurges. Think of it this way: if you spend an extra $20-30 on something you're going to wear a few times per week, you're still getting a low cost-per-wear for the item than an everyday article of clothing.

Clothing:
Longsleeve Wicking Top
This is a more spendy item, but these tops are really unbeatable. I like long sleeves most of the time, unless I'm doing yoga. They feel light and not restrictive.


Longsleeve Workout Top
Thumb holes. Need I say more? Perfect for outdoor running in chillier temps. I am always yanking on my sleeves when I run and this will prevent them from riding up!


                             
Compression Capris and Colorblock Cropped Yoga Pants
Most of the workouts I do require lots of flexibility. I don't like pant legs that restrict movement. I will put on long pants if I'm running outdoors when it's colder, but 90% of the time, I'm wearing cropped leggings. These are my two faves from Old Navy!

Shoes: 
Puma "Takala" Sneaks
These are my favorite for coaching and for yoga because they have a lot of give. They allow me to point my toes and fully stretch, but they still provide some support. This is one of those pieces that cost a little more, but are totally worth it. I have owned mine for over 6 years (though, I should replace them soon!)


New Balance WT510
For running and more rigorous workouts, I stick to New Balance. I think running shoes are a personal preference, but I like something with grip so I can go from gravel to trail to treadmill. I also like dark shoes that can handle some dirt and grime.

Misc.:
Incredible VS Sports Bra
As a well-endowed lady, I need mucho support during workouts. Especially during high-intensity boxing or spin classes. This is one area I usually splurge on the expensive options simply because they last longer and make for a more comfortable workout.


Aeropostale Canvas Tote
I currently carry a canvas tote I thrifted for $2, but if I were in the market for brand-new, it would be this. Love the bright color and the fact that it will fit everything, but not take up too much room in my car/locker.

Other gear I carry:

  • Yoga mat and yoga towel (I got mine cheap from Target); weight gloves; boxing gear - depending on which class or workout I plan to do. (Most of those things live in my trunk anyway, for easy access.)
  • Key lock for gym lockers 
  • Small toiletry bag with dry shampoo, deoderant, and makeup essentials
  • Arm band that holds my phone/iPod, keys and chapstick (things I want on my person when I'm on the treadmill or in class)
  • Protein bar for post-workout snack and water-bottle
  • Rubber flip flops (I hate icky gym floors while I'm changing!)

Rarely do I do the whole shower/get ready at the gym since A) I am so close to home and B) I plan my workouts around my schedule. When I used to go straight from the gym to work, I carried a full shower bag, makeup case and hair necessities. I am grateful to have more flexibility, because carrying all that stuff is seriously inconvenient. 

What workout gear do you consider necessary? What is in your gym bag?


Friday, March 8, 2013

Two Ways: Shawl Collar Poplin Shirtdress from eShakti {and a discount code!}

I have a special treat for Fashion Friday this week. I was contacted by eShakti to try out one of their items. If you're not familiar, eShakti is an online shopping site that allows you to customize their items to your preference. If they show a dress with sleeves, you can remove them. You can change the length to hit more or less conservatively and you can even change the specific measurements if you, like me, are smaller on bottom than you are on top. 

I chose the Shawl Collar Poplin Dress in the gorgeous spring green. I have been searching for a great green dress that I can wear with a blazer, or throw on flats for a casual brunch. This dress is perfect! And I wanted to show you how it transitioned from daytime to weekend-wear.

Here are a few shots of the dress un-styled. 
{Pockets! Love them!}

Look 1: Office Wear
This would be most appropriate for a casual Friday or a work setting with a more casual dress code, but it still looks appropriate and pulled-together. I paired it with a striped cardigan on top to cover up the curviness of the dress and add a layer to the arms. I then threw on a pair of work-appropriate heels and my trench coat for a work ready look.

Look 2: Weekend Wear
 I'm sorry I am mean-mugging y'all in this photo. 
I couldn't get the dog to stop running in and out of my shots! :)
The weekend look is great for brunch or even a get-together. Once spring is here to stay, the sleeveless look would work. Until then, I would put a light cardigan or a jean jacket on top. 

For an extra-special treat, eShakti has offered a discount code to all my lovely readers. Simply head over to their site and choose your favorite item. Upon checkout enter code: MELSMNYHTS and you will receive 20% off your order! They have extremely reasonable prices to begin with and with the extra 20% off, you can score an amazingly tailored item at a great price! Do not forget to customize your pick before you complete check-out so you can have exactly what you want! The code is only available through 3/20, so head over and use it now!

Friday, February 1, 2013

Fashion Friday: Casual weekend layers

Colorado has been unseasonably warm this winter. For the last two weeks, temps have been mid-50's by lunch-time, accompanied by a wonderful winter sun. Last weekend, Al and I walked around a home & garden show at a local event center and then went out for a couple beers and low-key hangout. I wanted an outfit that was cozy but still looked pulled together - I think this wintery, layered look accomplished that!


Tank - Kohls / Tunic sweater - Target / Denim jacket - thrifted
Zebra scarf - Heartbreakers / Leggings - Old Navy / OTK Boots - Rampage via Herbergers
Lips: "Bare it All" Wet n' Wild / Baby Lips "Peach Parfait" / Nails: Ulta



Friday, January 18, 2013

Clothes to Add to Your Closet in 2013

For the first Fashion Friday of 2013, I wanted to gather some clothing items that should be added to your closet in 2013. Each season, I put together a few items that I'd like to add to my closet and if I'm shopping and have the money, I snatch them up. It focuses my shopping to items I truly want/need and keeps me from straying too much. I also try to focus on classic and essential pieces that will last in my closet much longer than the trendy ones - though sometimes a trendy piece is thrown in for fun. As usual, I have kept the prices low and linked to where you can purchase them online. Enjoy!

Crisp White Blouse
**I know, I know. I should have one of these already. The one I have I bought last minute and found it in the little boys department at Sears. Not exactly the long-term blouse I want.

Gingham Blouse

Berry-colored cardigan

Tweed jacket

Denim jacket

Bright twill mini skirt
This one too, for good measure...

Brown pencil skirt
**Another basic I should have, but don't

Printed wrap dress
**Worth the added expense because this dress will last forever! But, cheaper alternative...

Grey knit tights

Back-seam nylons

Gold metallic skinny belt

Tortoise shell sunglasses

Ankle boots


Ankle-strap heels

Leopard print pumps

Friday, December 14, 2012

Fashion Friday: Dressing for the Holidays

Today, I put together my suggestions for holiday attire. Whether the event is a work dinner, sitting around the fire on Christmas Eve, or toasting with champagne on NYE, I have the outfit for you. Another added bonus: each outfit is under $100! I hope you enjoy what I came up with! 

Outfit #1
Event: Work Dinner Party
Cost: $98.24
Chunky knit wool sweater (H&M)
Gold chain collar necklace (Forever 21)
Jacquard full skirt (Target)
Gold cap toe pumps (Charlotte Russe)

Outfit #2
Event: Cocktail Party
Cost: $98.94
Ponte shift dress (Target)
Black Shrug (6pm)
Sequin clutch (Gap)
Patent leather pumps (Limited)

Outfit #3
Event: Christmas Eve
Cost: $96.44
Plaid shirt (H&M) 
Charcoal Saturday pant (J.Crew) 
Moccasin slipper (Payless) 
Kahluaccino Drink recipe HERE

Outfit #4
Event: Christmas Day
Cost: $100.50
Knit scoopneck sweater (Old Navy)
Lacquer link necklace (Forever 21)
Scallop-print skinny leg pants (H&M) 
Leopard pump (Forever 21)

Outfit #5
Event: New Years' Eve
Cost: $93.93
Emerald 3/4 tee (H&M)
Hematite tiered necklace & earrings (InPink)
Sequin trim mini skirt (Target)
Suede strappy heel (6pm)

Friday, November 30, 2012

My New Store

Hello lovelies.

Last weekend, I decided to go through my garage sale bin and post some items online. I decided to use ShopLocket to post the items (after unsuccessfully using Smashion.) 

Check out my store:

Friday, November 9, 2012

Fashion Friday: Burgundy Pants Part Deux

A couple weeks ago, I debuted my new burgundy skinny jeans. Well, I've worn them so many times since then. I've practically lived in them. So, I thought I would share another look showing just how versatile they are - the perfect fall staple!

Colorblock blazer - thrifted / Leopard top - thrifted
Burgundy skinnies - d jeans via Ross / Flats - Old Navy

Here are some other ways you could wear colored pants: 
Needless to say, I'm a colored-jeans convert! Hope y'all have a great weekend!