Mastering The Mix from House of Terrance

There are likely a few different reasons for the rise in popularity of mixing prints.  Designers like Alessandro Michele of Gucci, Stuart Vevers of Coach, and Stella Jean, have made an impact on this type of fashion.

There’s a search for a more expressive individualistic way of dressing and access to sophisticated styling due to social media.

1. Color and silhouette are important considerations when mixing prints.
Keep your mix easy and classic in shape. Stay with 2 or 3 colors at the most to simplify things. More than that and you risk looking clownish.

2. Scale too is all-important.
Make sure and use a range of sizes in your patterns to make your mix more interesting and sophisticated. The easiest mix to try is 2 black and white prints in different sizes.

3. Try adding a solid basic to the mix,
like a jean jacket, leather jacket, or blazer to create some visual tranquility in your ensemble. And for a shortcut to pattern mixing look for pre-mixed pieces that incorporate 2 or more patterns already.

4. Be fearless!
Try mixing a floral with stripes, plaid or animal prints (often considered neutrals these days). Or you can go with the same pattern in a different color or size. It all can work, especially if you keep 1 and 2 above in mind.

Take style quiz here:  House of Terrances

Dressing from the Boardroom to the Boardwalk

Summer Friday’s are upon us and it’s time to update your wardrobe for the summer social scene that lays ahead.

Ann Taylor and Thirty-One Gifts’ summer collections have everything you need to take from the boardroom to the boardwalk. These patterns scream summer but maintain the professionalism oh so desired in the office. Just grab your bag and your sunglasses – you’ll be having your happy hour with Ann Taylor and Thirty-One soon enough.

 

 

Casual Crewneck Chiffon Summer Dress – Sunday Style

Let’s talk about this dress.  It’s simply amazing from the tunic cut to the free-flowing style.  I have a secret to share!  In the summer months, I primarily shop online.  This is because not only do I run a local business but my boys are home for the summer.

That means there’s no time for excessive running around to stores.  More so, I spend the majority of my hours making memories with the kids.

Our days involve crafts, swimming or visiting the local library.  But, looking great doesn’t have to be compromised!  I just do a small shift with my shopping strategy.

The dress in this post was purchased from Amazon.  Honestly, I was hesitant because online shopping can be tricky.  The first step is to know my measurements and the style of dress that accentuates my shape.  The second step is to take into consideration my problem areas along with colors that compliment my complexion.

The jewelry that I’m wearing in this picture was purchased from a thrift shop.  I love thrifting but that’s another blog post!

What are your online shopping tips?  Share in the comments below.

Dress:  Amazon | Pumps:  Jessica Simpson | Makeup:  MAC Cosmetics | Pearl Necklace & Sunglasses:  Tiffany & Co.  | Perforated Braided Clutch:  South Moon Under

 

Ann Taylor Brings Back Pastels in Time for Summer

Sunny days, refreshers and day parties, sounds like the perfect reason for wearing the prettiest summer outfit!  Ann Taylor just launched its summer collection and it consists of all your favorite summer pastels and bolds.

The collection ranges from wide-legged pants to the perfect tea party dress, making it easy to find an outfit while feeling hip and fun wearing it. Each outfit can be accessorized with the perfect gold jewelry and your favorite summer heels or slides to complete the look.

Have a BBQ or Graduation party to attend?  See below style selects from Ann Taylor for the perfect occasion.

 

 

5 Jewelry Trends to Take Away from the Fall/Winter Season

Jewelry can really make an outfit stand out. Even an outfit that might seem dull, at first glance, can be invigorated and livened by a piece of jewelry chosen accordingly. Of course, there are certain trends that dictate the design of jewels – and if you want to recreate your style, picking the right accessories will allow you to do that!

Accessories grant that specific je ne sais quoi that is so alluring. We really love the way in which a piece of jewelry can add depth and dimension to an outfit. That being said, we’d like to talk about the main trends you’re likely to observe this year.

  1. Statement Earrings

Without a doubt, statement earrings are a beloved trend. Hence, most jewel makers offer a wide selection of styles – including Brilliant Earth. The best thing about statement earrings is that they catch the eye. In fact, they direct all the attention towards the upper part of the body. You can combine them with classic, timeless pieces such as a white or black dress – you couldn’t possibly go wrong. Plus, you can choose from so many models and designs, meaning that you’re bound to find something that appeals to you.

  1. Oversized Jewelry

Another ever-present trend is that of oversized jewelry. In fact, it comes down to this: the bigger the jewelry, the better. The thing is that oversized pieces of jewelry instill confidence – a characteristic that should describe every woman nowadays. Essentially, oversized gold or silver accessories are in sheer contrast with minimalist, dainty clothing. Hence, Brilliant Earth Jewelry diversified their available styles, to make their jewelry selection as varied as possible.

  1. Simple, Elegant Necklaces

Another trend that is likely to be around for a while now is that of thin, dangling necklaces. Regardless of the type of outfit, you’re wearing, adding a bunch of dainty, elegant necklaces with a simple, timeless design can really add a hint of texture and character. In fact, during the fall, you can attempt to combine them with scarves. Conversely, you could pair a set of dainty necklaces with chunky, metallic chokers, if you’re the adept of unconventional jewelry.

  1. Charm-Style Jewelry

Our list continues with charm-style jewelry. Whether we’re talking about bracelets or necklaces, charm-style jewelry is an ongoing trend that is gaining territory by the day. People who are eager about collecting things will find them infinitely more appealing. And this doesn’t come as a surprise, considering that charm jewelry is the definition of whimsy, not to mention that you can get as creative as you please.

  1. Fall Leaves Theme

A theme for the fall/winter 2018-2019 season is that of fall leaves. This theme makes one think of nature, or, more specifically, the woods. Nature-inspired fashion pieces always manage to look good, and we definitely appreciate the dainty, ethereal leaves we’ve noticed in some of the upcoming collections.

To conclude, these are some of the main trends you’re likely to observe in the jewelry department. Which of them appeals to you the most and why? Let us know!

Collaborative Post

South Moon Under Store Opening and The Summit Birmingham

South Moon Under opened a few weeks ago at The Summit Birmingham.  I learned about this store while living in Baltimore and hosting a styling event at the Harbor East location.  If you were a fan of the Scandal Shopping TV Series we featured the retailer to recreate Olivia Pope’s iconic look.

SMU has a variety of stylish items from a few of our favorite brands.  Some of those labels include Chinese Laundry, French Connection, Gucci, Nasty Gal, and Lucky Brand.  I stopped by the store to see the new merchandise and pick-up a summer accessory.  The store manager informed me that each store has only a select amount of key pieces.  There’s no worry about having the same outfit as your former classmate.

I enjoyed walking around the store while music played and secretly fell in love with the Uneven Fray Denim jacket.  The official store opening is Saturday, June 2, 2018, at 10:00 a.m.  If you stop by South Moon Under, tell us what you purchase!

Store Address:

220 Sumit Boulevard

Suite 150

Birmingham, Alabama 35243

Time to Break out the White Clothing: Ann Taylor Summer Outfits

Ann Taylor has all the looks needed for this summer’s wear. From all-white outfits to white pieces paired with bold colors, you’ll have something to wear all summer long – and keep you looking and feeling cool. Pair your favorite white pants, with a bright top from Ann Taylor and accessorize it with the perfect gold jewelry to complete the look.

Ann Taylor has everything that will have you looking trendy, sophisticated and feminine all summer long.

 

My Personal Style Type According To House of Terrance: HOT Style Quiz

 

You love a good blazer, a collared shirt, and tailored pants. Your favorite accessories start with the letter P–pumps, pearls, and pinstripes. You always gravitate to shades of navy, beige and gray. Your signet ring is your fave accessory.

 

TIP: Classics like you are always in style. The only thing you need to watch out for is style fatigue because a traditional classic style without updates can sometimes seem a bit frumpy. Always spice up classic style with a twist on it for example instead of a simple string of pearls or a single bangle worn with your watch, why not add 1 more piece? Try adding another necklace to layer with your pearls or add 1 or 2 bangles to the mix on your wrist to keep things fresh. Either of these examples from H*O*T would work https://houseofterrance.com/vintage/vintage-gold-chain-and-pearls-necklace or https://houseofterrance.com/bracelets/silver-screw-bracelet-with-pav-rhinestone-center

 

And remember to spice up your classic look with color!  Even though neutrals predominate your closet adding a pop of green, red or bright blue to your look doesn’t have to take you out of your style comfort zone.

 

To take your own personal style quiz visit House of Terrance.com

The New Memoir, #Becoming By Michelle Obama

The New Memoir, Becoming by Michelle Obama will be released on November 13, 2018.

The former #FLOTUS shared on social media, “I’m thrilled to share with all of you the cover for BECOMING. The process of writing this book has been so personally meaningful and illuminating for me. As I prepare to share BECOMING this fall, I hope you’ll also think about your own story, and trust that it will help you become whoever you aspire to be. Your story is what you have, what you will always have. It is something to own. #BECOMING.”

 

 

 

Emerging Style and Fashion Icon: The New Duchess of Sussex

At this point, everyone knows that Meghan Markle is the Duchess of Sussex.  Her wedding gown and accessories spoke volumes to the world. Many people argued that her dress was understated and lacked proper fitting.

From this viewpoint, she wants to be seen as an elegant part of society. Meghan is not represented to become a form of entertainment or visual walking accessory.  She’s here to make an impact and exemplify her own cultural beliefs.

Last week, I decided to recreate the above look from my closet.  She was featured in Gritty Pretty Magazine wearing a similar outfit.  I gravitated towards the photo because not only is Meghan a woman to watch but her personal style is undeniable.

She mixes classic pieces with a touch of minimalistic influences.  I think in the coming years we will enjoy watching her grace into her role of being English royalty and an emerging style icon.