From the Office to Happy Hour: Transitioning to a Professional Wardrobe Tips

Building a professional wardrobe that’s affordable and timeless can be a difficult task but purchasing the right pieces can also be an investment.

Very often, your career will dictate a variety of social affairs such as attending an office meeting, company picnic, or even a happy hour.

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To help us transition from the desk to a night out with our colleagues, I’ve provided a few dress options below for inspiration. The options shown take into consideration an individual’s personal style, figure type, and office setting.

Most importantly, one suggestion that I always recommend (to those seeking to build a professional wardrobe) is to shop a variety of brands that will help pull together the right professional wardrobe.

Transitioning to a Professional Wardrobe Tips

 

1. Pencil Skirt, Clutch Bag, and Stud Earrings

Professional Dress Tips

2. Peplum Top, Stilleto Pumps, Pearl Necklace

Professional Dress Tips #2

 

 

3. Large Cuff Bracelet, Leather Dress, and Red Black Lipstick
 

Professional Dress Tip #3

 

 

4. Nude Nail Polish, Hoop Earrings, Tux Blazer

Professional Dress Tips #4

Mommy-ista Dressing and Beauty Tips: Look Fabulous while Being a Mom

As a mom you’re busy going to school meetings, shopping for groceries, and picking up socks.  Honestly, there’s barely enough time in the day to get it all done, let alone time to fix yourself up. But mommy-istas, today is a new day!  We need to embrace motherhood with a sense of vengeance and look fabulous while on this journey.

There’s a few rules that every mom should remember as “the going gets tough.”  Rule number one: In order for everyone to be happy (and sane) in your home, your sense of happiness is very important.  Number two:  It’s completely okay to pick up a new tube of lipstick while shopping for pampers.  And number three:  Find a gym that has mommy daycare so everyone can have a “time out.”

Now that the rules have been established, let’s talk about looking fabulous.  With so many celebrity moms like Halle Berry, Kim Kardashian, and Jessica Simpson, they have opened the doors for better apparel and beauty products.

 

Your probably saying to yourself, “good for them” but becoming a mom’s truly a unique sisterhood. When you enter this girls club, there’s always the uncontrollable issue of time. Which means we need (better) products that get us out of the door quickly, make us look good, and are cost efficient.

Based upon my own experiences, I have decided to share a few “mommy” secrets in regards to dress and my daily beauty regimen. 

Mommy-ista Dressing Must Haves

1. A cute pair of flats: They can be purchased from Target or Channel but you need a pair of flats in your wardrobe…it’s difficult to chase kids in stilettos (honestly.)  Also, flats are perfect for when you wear heels and need to take a break.  You can carry flats in your purse and use them when needed.

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2. Jeans are purchased in three categories: You have date night jeans that are sexy, stylish, and slightly trendy. You have parent/teacher conference jeans that look appropriate with a blazer…not too tight or sexy. You have shopping jeans that are comfortable…not “mom jeans” and can be worn with any pair of shoes.

3. Stylish pair of pumps/heels:  Eventually you will have a “Girls Night Out” or need to wear them to the office.  Every mom should have a pair in her wardrobe.  When starting out, purchase them in basic colors and progress towards “fun” heels.

4. A blazer can do wonders:  Wearing a blazer instantly makes you look stylish but can also hide a few figure imperfections.  They can also go with anything (depending on the color and fabric texture) so this is a must have in your “mommy” wardrobe.

 

5. Proper undergarments:  Once you become a mom (no matter what size) you will have a case of the “jiggles.”  And that’s okay because as a grown woman, you want to have curves but undergarments assist with the shape/fit of your attire.  Stop by your favorite lingerie store and purchase a cami top, hosiery, and body shaper.

Mommy-ista Beauty Tips

1. Buy Concealer and Foundation: This particular beauty product is your best friend! You have long nights, and early mornings (very different from college.)  Therefore at some point, you will want to look awake and refreshed.  Concealer and Foundation can be purchased at Saks or at a local drugstore.  For more questions about concealer, download my e-book Beauty Tips Back to The Basics.

2. Neutral Lipstick and Red Lipstick:  Wearing a neutral lipstick will make your face appear upbeat and match any color blouse (or dress) in your wardrobe.  Wearing a red lipstick will brighten the eyes and refresh your face as well.

3. Groom those Eyebrows:  Your eyebrows are truly a window to the face!  They can be groomed at any local salon for $10.00 or a kit can be purchased from a local drugstore.

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4.  Fragrance, Fragrance, Fragrance:  Wearing a fragrance can boost any mood but most importantly, you will smell pleasant at all times (while running errands.)

 

5. Buy Quick Dry Nail Polish or Nail Stickers:  At some point, you will need to “appear” as if you’ve had a manicure.  Owning nail polish provides the luxury of making your hands look polished but also good for in-home touch ups.  Nail stickers are inexpensive and trendy.

Fall 2013 Beauty and Accessories Trends: Part I

From a blogger’s perspective, I always like to know what’s “hot” for the next upcoming season.  And honestly, I do not consider myself to be “trendy” but I do believe in the concept of “refreshing” your wardrobe.

Life is too short to wear boring clothes (via my Instagram post) and dressing is a form of personal expression.  It’s how you present yourself to the world and most importantly, it shows everyone how you feel about yourself.

My philosophy is that anyone can refresh their wardrobe without having to spend their life savings.  A simple bracelet or new shade of lipstick can do wonders for your wardrobe, mood, or even your professional life.

I have to give credit to one of my favorite magazines, Instyle (I’ve been reading since I was a teenager) for telling us the new, runway inspired looks.

In conclusion, it’s fun and easy to select a trend but don’t forget that true style is making a look your own!

Beauty Trends

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Oxblood Nails

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Wide Headband

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Nude Nail Polish

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Matte Skin

 

Accessories Trends

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Animal Print Heels

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Pointy – Toe Flats

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Strappy Sandals

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White Pumps

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High Heeled Loafers

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Pendant Earrings

 

photos were taken from Pinterest.com

 

Target’s Beauty Concierge Progam Launches in Baltimore: Contributing Post by Lydia Rochelle

Just in case you needed another reason to shop at Target, the store known for the “Expect More. Pay Less” brand promise has launched a Beauty Concierge program in 27 existing stores in Washington DC, Northern Virginia and Baltimore.

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This program started in Chicago, and launched in the DMV on June 28, 2013. The Beauty Concierge is available at select times during the day, to answer all of your beauty and skincare needs with personalized and unbiased information.

Recently, I had the opportunity to visit with Melody, the Beauty Concierge at the store in Towson. Her impressive background as a professional make-up artist and extensive training in skin care and hair care, guided me through my beauty journey. During my visit, we perused the vast amount of ethnic hair care products (the largest selection that I have seen at Target) and developed a regimen that would work best for my hair type. Melody provided personalized and unbiased information and we also had a great time!

Additionally, the program will launch in 96 stores in Los Angeles/Orange County, 36 stores in Minneapolis and expand to 41 stores in Chicago, with approximately 200 stores implementing the program in 2013. Check with your local Target for additional locations with the Beauty Concierge. Happy shopping!

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Summer Beauty Trick: How to Wear A Nude Lipstick

Wearing nude lipstick this summer is fun, sexy, and very sophisticated.  And I love wearing a nude lipstick because this color practically goes with any dress for any occassion.  But there’s a fine line between wearing a neutral lip color and appearing to have just “rolled” out of the bed.

When trying to achieve a neutral look this does not mean simply wearing clear lip gloss (and nothing else.)  This effortless look still requires make up application with the selection of the right products.  Lucky for us we have tips on how to wear a nude lipstick!

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 How To Wear a Nude Lipstick

  • Select a color that matches your skintone; the color should be at least two shades between your natural skin complexion.
  • Fair skintones should purchase lipsticks in a pink nude; Brown skintones should purchase lipsticks in a beige nude.
  • Use a neutral lip liner to help lipstick last longer.
  • Don’t forget to play up the eyes with dramatic eye shadow, mascara, and liquid liner.
  • Add bronzer to the cheeks for a beautiful summer glow! 

 

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Event Recap: Fashion Awards MD 2013

Photos from this year’s Fashion Awards MD event are posted below.  I was super excited to be a nominee, especially since this blog has only been active for one year (hooray!)  In addition, every nominee in the media category was very talented, so for me (personally) it was truly about the experience and being amongst those who share the same “love” which is fashion, art, and style.

The event production was also nice from nominees standing on the red carpet, to guest enjoying refreshments, and the opportunity to network with industry professionals.  Lastly, to give this event the fashion flair that it deserved Lana Rae (the event founder and owner of the KIS Agency) was able to have Lianca and Johnny from Kimora: House of Fab serve as the awards show host.

I look forward to attending this event again next year.  For additional details click on the link: Fashion Awards MD.com  Photos below are taken from my Instagram account.

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Photo of Fashion Blogger Teena Leone from Fashion for Breakfast

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Dress: shop.stylelifefashion.com | Bracelet: Nordstrom | Platform Pumps: Bebe | Envelop Clutch: shop.stylelifefashion.com

Event Recap: Mdurvwa Pop Up Shop hosted by Teena Leone

On Sunday, June 9, 2013 I had the opportunity to attend The Mdurvwa Pop Up Shop hosted by Teena Leone (from Fashion for Breakfast) along with jewelry designer Deborah Mdurvwa and R&B Singer, Lil Mo.  The event was held at a local boutique (in Federal Hill, Baltimore) titled The Lovelace Showroom.

I had a great time at this event for a variety of reasons.  Number one, I love supporting other bloggers because we truly have a passion for what we do and understand the dynamics and hard work that goes into maintaing a website.  Number two, it was my first time visiting The Lovelace Showroom and I adore the “vibe” that’s in this boutique.  From chandelier ceilings to sequin drapes, this is my type of boutique! Lastly, it’s always nice to meet other fashionistas living in the Baltimore area.

Everyone who attended the event also had the opportunity to enjoy cupcakes, light refreshments, and music played by a local DJ.

I give the event a thumbs up and looking forward to the next event hosted by Teena!

 

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Just another fun day for Style Life Fashion!
 

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SLF Giveaway {H&M} Bikini and Embroidered Dress

Ladies we have a treat for you! For everyone who’s a “Beyonce fan” and frequent shopper of H&M, we are offering (you) the opportunity to wear the hottest style.  In honor of our loyal readers, we are hosting a giveaway from the Beyonce in H&M Summer Collection 2013.

One lucky winner will receive a bandeau bikini (top/bottom) and beaded embroidered dress for summer!  Details on how to enter the giveaway are below:

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GIVEAWAY REQUIRED ENTRY:

1. “Like” Style Life Fashion Facebook and Twitter Page.

2. Return to my blog (HERE) and leave a comment sharing your favorite clothing item or accessory from H&M.

3. Share our Beyonce in H&M Summer Collection 2013 giveaway on one of your social networking sites (either Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.)

Giveaway will end at midnight on June 18, 2013 EST. The winner will be notified (via email) and announced on June19, 2013.

Nordstrom Rack Pre-Opening Party in Columbia Crossing

Nordstrom Rack opens in Columbia, Maryland (as of today) May 16, 2013.  On tuesday, I had the opportunity to attend their Pre-Opening Party.  I was happy to receive an invitation because this event was a great way to welcome Nordstrom Rack to Columbia residents.

Upon entering the doors, Nordstrom Rack staff greeted participants while thanking them for attending the event.  In addition, there was music playing, waiters serving horsd’oeurves and shoppers sipping “fun” drinks.

Some of the brands present in Nordstrom Rack are Michael Kors, Kenneth Cole, BCBG, Ivanka Trump, and many more.  There’s also shoes, accessories, cosmetics, handbags, and children’s apparel.  But what’s really important is that all of the products are such a great price.  In my opinion, you can’t beat high quality merchandise for a good price!

To give more details about the actual store opening, the first (30) shoppers will win a $100.00 giftcard and one lucky winner will receive a $1,000 shopping spree.

Opening Date:  May 16, 2013 at 9:00 a.m. (pre-opening festivities begin at 8:00 a.m.)

Regular Store Hours: Monday – Saturday 10 a.m. – 9:30 p.m.; Sunday 11 a.m. – 7 p.m.

Location: 6141 Columbia Crossing Circle, Columbia, MD 21045

Size: 40,750

History: The first Nordstrom Rack opened as a clearance center in the lower level of the Downtown Seattle Nordstrom store in the early 1970’s.  As Nordstrom expanded across the country, Rack stores followed.   The new Nordstrom Rack Columbia Crossing will be the retailer’s 126th Rack location.

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Spring Beauty Products Review: The Editor’s Video

As we move forward with the Spring season, I wanted to share a few of the beauty products that I am currently using.  The products discussed in this video can be purchased at any local Sephora or department store.

Below (in the video) I am sharing are Buxom Lipstick, Smashbox Brow Kit, MAC Studio Fix (SPF 15) Foundation, and Very Hollywood (perfume) by Michael Kors.

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I hope that this vidoe will serve as a useful tool to help “stylistas” in their quest to stay beautiful.  Enjoy ladies…

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