Category: What To Wear

What To Wear

Accessories /

Ann Taylor Summer Collection – Shirtdress, Bucket Bag, and Hat

Shirtdresses are one piece wonders for an ultimate feminine look this season – take a cue from today’s New York Times Style Section that features the ladylike look.

imageService (8)

Ann Taylor’s summer collection includes flattering, fun and amazingly pretty shirtdresses for every summer occasion. Be comfortable and confident in the season’s popular trend that is in a class of its own or upgrade your look with an easy transition from work to play on a Friday evening with go-to accessories from Ann Taylor including: a belt, bucket bag, slide sandals and hat.

unnamed (74)

Accessories /

Ann Taylor – What To Wear Summer Wedding Essentials

Whether you’re headed to an exotic island or your boss’s daughter’s wedding – Ann Taylor has the essentials for surviving wedding season.

imageService (2)
Add a splash of color with your pumps
imageService (4)
Floral and Eyelet – always a classic style for summer wedding

imageService (3)

Neutral Tone Handbag
Neutral Tone Handbag
imageService (6)
Metallic Clutch
imageService (7)
Seascape Sunglasses compliment any dress


From a short-sleeved for church appropriate ensemble to sophisticated sheath dresses and wedges to keep you from sinking in the sand, Ann Taylor’s summer collection solves your wardrobe woes. Please see below for suggestions.

unnamed (70)

Accessories /

Tipsy Elves Memorial Day Tank Top

I hope that everyone enjoyed the holiday weekend! I spent the three-day holiday eating barbeque, playing golf with my family, and indulging in Memorial sales. Thank you to Tipsy Elves for sending a fun tank top to wear during weekend festivities.

women_s_usa_tank_top

 

I’m actually saving this shirt for Independence Day weekend (smile.)

FullSizeRender (57)

 

 

Accessories /

LONGINES CELEBRATES AND AWARDS ELEGANT TIMEPIECES AT PREAKNESS STAKES

LONGINES CELEBRATES AND AWARDS ELEGANT TIMEPIECES AT PREAKNESS STAKES FOR OWNER, TRAINER AND JOCKEY OF AMERICAN PHAROAH 

Swiss Watchmaking Brand Longines Was Official Timekeeper and Watch of the 140th Preakness Stakes, and Bestowing Partner of the International Pavilion, Dixie Stakes

Longines, renowned Swiss watch brand and Official Timekeeper and Watch of the 140th Preakness Stakes, ceremoniously awarded the winning owner, trainer and jockey of American Pharoah with Conquest Classic watches in the International Pavilion at Pimlico Race Course on Saturday, May 16.

Preakness_01

Trainer Bob Baffert, center, shows off another Longines timepiece after American Pharoah wins the 140th Preakness Stakes and the second leg of the Triple Crown, Saturday, May 16, 2015, in Baltimore, Md., with jockey Victor Espinoza.  Longines, the Swiss watch manufacturer known for its elegant timepieces, is the Official Watch and Timekeeper of the 140th annual Preakness Stakes and the Triple Crown. (Photo by Diane Bondareff/Invision for Longines/AP Images)

 Preakness_02

Zaneta Sampson, left, and Jennifer Judkins, second left, of Longines, get ready to present Longines Conquest Classic timepieces as jockey Victor Espinoza and the American Pharoah team celebrate their win at the 140th Preakness Stakes and the second leg of the Triple Crown, Saturday, May 16, 2015, in Baltimore, Md. Longines, the Swiss watch manufacturer known for its elegant timepieces, is the Official Watch and Timekeeper of the 140th annual Preakness Stakes and the Triple Crown. (Photo by Diane Bondareff/Invision for Longines/AP Images)

Preakness_03

For the second year in a row, jockey Victor Espinoza celebrates winning the second leg of the Triple Crown at the 140th Preakness Stakes, Saturday, May 16, 2015, at Pimlico Race Course in Baltimore, Md.  American Pharoah will be a contender for the Triple Crown at Belmont Park on June 6.  Longines, the Swiss watch manufacturer known for its elegant timepieces, is the Official Watch and Timekeeper of the 140th annual Preakness Stakes and the Triple Crown. (Photo by Diane Bondareff/Invision for Longines/AP Images)

Preakness_04

American Pharoah, ridden by jockey Victor Espinoza, wins the second leg of the Triple Crown as he runs away with the 140th Preakness Stakes, Saturday, May 16, 2015, at a muddy Pimlico Race Course in Baltimore, Md.  American Pharoah will be a contender for the Triple Crown at Belmont Park on June 6.  Longines, the Swiss watch manufacturer known for its elegant timepieces, is the Official Watch and Timekeeper of the 140th annual Preakness Stakes and the Triple Crown. (Photo by Diane Bondareff/Invision for Longines/AP Images)

Preakness_05

 Jennifer Judkins, left, and Zaneta Sampson, right, of Longines, present owner Stuart Janney, assistant trainer Robert Medina and jockey Javier Castellano, left to right, with Longines Conquest Classic timepieces after their horse Ironicus won the Longines Dixie Stakes, Saturday, May 16, 2015, at Pimlico Race Course in Baltimore, Md.  Longines, the Swiss watch manufacturer known for its elegant timepieces, is the Official Watch and Timekeeper of the 140th annual Preakness Stakes and the Triple Crown. (Photo by Diane Bondareff/Invision for Longines/AP Images)

Preakness_06
Ironicus, ridden by jockey Javier Castellano, wins the Longines Dixie Stakes, Saturday, May 16, 2015, at Pimlico Race Course in Baltimore, Md.  Longines, the Swiss watch manufacturer known for its elegant timepieces, is the Official Watch and Timekeeper of the 140th annual Preakness Stakes and the Triple Crown. (Photo by Diane Bondareff/Invision for Longines/AP Images)

Preakness_07

Jennifer Judkins, left, of Longines, presents Katrina Dennis, of Baltimore, Md., with a Longines Conquest Classic timepiece after she wins the Longines Most Elegant Woman at the Preakness contest, Saturday, May 16, 2015, in Baltimore, Md.  Longines, the Swiss watch manufacturer known for its elegant timepieces, is the Official Watch and Timekeeper of the 140th annual Preakness Stakes and the Triple Crown. (Photo by Diane Bondareff/Invision for Longines/AP Images)

Preakness_08

Katrina Dennis, right, of Baltimore, Md., celebrates after winning the Longines Most Elegant Woman at the Preakness contest, Saturday, May 16, 2015, at Pimlico Race Course in Baltimore, Md. Longines, the Swiss watch manufacturer known for its elegant timepieces, is the Official Watch and Timekeeper of the 140th annual Preakness Stakes and the Triple Crown. (Photo by Diane Bondareff/Invision for Longines/AP Images)

Preakness_09 (1)

Contestants show off their style during the Longines Most Elegant Woman at the Preakness contest, Saturday, May 16, 2015, at Pimlico Race Course in Baltimore, Md. Longines, the Swiss watch manufacturer known for its elegant timepieces, is the Official Watch and Timekeeper of the 140th annual Preakness Stakes and the Triple Crown. (Photo by Diane Bondareff/Invision for Longines/AP Images)

IMG_3282

Jennifer Judkins, U.S. Brand President for Longines awarded Zayat Stables LLC co-owner, trainer Bob Baffert and jockey Victor Espinoza with elegant timepieces after American Pharoah cemented itself as a potential Triple Crown winner. American Pharoah, ridden by jockey, Victor Espinoza, raced to victory in 1 minute and 58 seconds.

New this year was the launch of Preakness App presented by the organizers of the Preakness Stakes. The app supported a public contest in which users aimed to guess the exact timing of the winning horse, American Pharoah. A Conquest Timepiece was sent to the winner.

Longines had a prominent presence throughout Pimlico on Preakness day serving as the Official Timekeeper and Watch with a large chronograph at the finish line and hosting the Longines Most Elegant Woman at Preakness Fashion Contest. The Longines Most Elegant Woman at Preakness Fashion Contest celebrated the sophisticated style of The Preakness Stakes. With the help of a panel of judges, Longines chose the most elegant woman and presented her a Longines Conquest Classic Timepiece with diamonds. Conquest Classic watches were also granted to the winning horses’ owner, trainer and jockey of the Dixie Stakes presented by Longines.

To highlight its partnership, the watchmaker had a digital “Longines Preakness Stakes Countdown Clock” on the official Preakness Stakes website, www.preakness.com, and served as the presenting partner of the International Pavilion, the leading hospitality destination. Located at the finish line, the International Pavilion brings the world to the Preakness by choosing a different country each year to serve as the host nation with its respective embassy and Ambassador serving as Honorary Host. The embassy of Canada served as the 2015 host nation.  For more information and photography from the 140th Preakness Stakes visit: http://inr.synapticdigital.com/swatch_group/preakness_2015.

IMG_3296

About the Watches

The Conquest Classic line is a tribute to the chronographs produced by Longines as early as 1881 for race-goers and jockeys in New York. This collection of models, all fitted with self-winding calibers, is both contemporary and perfectly timeless, representing the brands’ rich tradition and watch-making expertise.

Conquest Classic is available in three sizes. The ladies’ models have a diameter of 29.50 mm with a black, mother-of-pearl or silvered dial and are available in steel, rose gold or a combination of steel and rose gold. A second model with hours, minutes and date is available with a diameter of 40.00 mm, fitted on black alligator straps or steel or steel and rose gold bracelets, each to match the dial. At 41 mm, the chronographs are fitted with an L688 column-wheel movement exclusively developed for Longines. The case is either in steel, steel and rose gold or rose gold alone with a silvered or black dial.

LONGINES
Longines has been based at Saint-Imier, Switzerland, since 1832. It has generations of experience as the official timekeeper at world championships and as a partner of international sports federations. Longines is a member of The Swatch Group S.A., the world’s leading manufacturer of horological products. With an excellent reputation for creating refined timepieces, the brand, whose emblem is the winged hourglass, has outlets in over 140 countries.

FullSizeRender (51) IMG_3295 IMG_3293 IMG_3290 IMG_3286

Accessories /

Ann Taylor Memorial Day and Spring Trend Report 2015

Whether you’re hitting the beach, headed to a BBQ or going to a party this weekend – Ann Taylor has the must-have essentials for an effortless look that fits right in your tote. From the perfect pair of slide sandals to a classic shirtdress for an easy beach to brunch transition, Ann Taylor has you covered for a head-to-toe look.

image001

SPRING TREND REPORT 2015 –

Polka Dots

What’s always fun, super-luxe, and never out of style? POLKA DOTS! Punctuate your look and go for polka dots — big or small or mixed together, this happy trend goes everywhere and with anything!

 

 

Refined Stripes

Seriously flattering and super refined – stripes never go out of style. Every woman should have a key transitional piece in her wardrobe with a timeless stripe print for a feminine and moderate update.

 

 

Florals

Winter florals were all the rage, and they are popping into spring. What better way to jump into spring than with a fresh floral print to bring either a subtle taste, or bold pop of color into your wardrobe!

 

 

 

Mesh

A daring-and easy-way to bring textured contrast to your outfit, whether with a hint for a “peek-a-boo” look perfect for layering, or go all-in with playful skirts and hemlines.

Accessories

Finishing touches make all the difference. Grab one of these functional accessories, and complete your head-to-toe elevated look with a pop of color or statement piece.

Fashion /

Bra Fitting: How To Guide

If you’re in the market for a new piece of lingerie, be it out of necessity or just a pure want, there are some things you need to know before offering up your credit card. As any woman who has ever bought a bra knows, they’re one of the most difficult items to properly size yourself. It is possible though, if you abide by a few guidelines. Below are a few tips that can ensure that you’re know the best bra fitting possible before that trip to the store.

Print

The Cup

Your bra cups should be big enough to ensure there’s not any spillage at the bottom, over the bra strap, or on the sides. However, your breasts shouldn’t be swimming inside the cups either.

You can get a general idea of what size you should be looking for by following the fruit method. As explained by Adam and Eve, the letter of your lingerie is your cup size: A, B, C, D, and so on. Check below to find what piece of fruit your breast mirror most to find out which cup size you should be looking for.

Plum—AA or smaller

Lemon—A

Orange—B

Grapefruit—C

Melons—D

The Straps

Your bra straps are just as crucial to the integrity of your lingerie as anything else. In addition to the band and underwire, the straps help keep your chest supported and, more importantly, your bra in place.

Probably the most tell-tale sign that your bra isn’t fitting right is that your straps are sliding off your shoulders. The solution could be as simple as shortening them, but if they’re as tight as they go, you might need a replacement.

There isn’t an exact strap size you should look for in your next bra. But according to Cosmopolitan, as a rule of thumb, the larger the breasts the wider your straps should be. You also should make sure they’re not cutting into your shoulders. If they are, it means your underwire and band aren’t taking on the amount of support they should be.

8374556_fpx

The Band

Finally, your band needs to be tight, but not uncomfortably.  Fresh Pair states that 90 percent of your bra’s support should be achieved from a snug, well-fitting band. You should be able to fit one to two fingers underneath it, and it should sit level around your body from front to pack. As Fresh Pair notes: “If it rides up your back, it’s too big. If your straps are falling, it’s too loose.”

Finding a properly fitting piece of lingerie can make you feel beautiful, confident, and fully supported whether you’re hanging out at home or painting the town red. Just follow these tips before hitting the shops.

Guest Post

Baltimore | Birmingham | Atlanta /

MeMoi Shapewear: Look 10 Pounds Lighter This Summer Season

Look trim, toned and 10 pounds lighter–INSTANTLY!– with MeMoi’s state-of –the-art SlimMe shapewear!

How is it that a mere inch or two around the midriff and hips can mean the difference between fitting into that slinky dress comfortably or having to “suck it in” all night, regretting those late night visits to the fridge?    Life is too short for regrets!  Especially when it is possible to fit into that dress and immediately look 10 pounds slimmer—no self-deprivation required!  MeMoi’s SlimMe Full Control Slip does the work for you.  This light compression shape wear flattens your middle and smoothes the lower body, holding in the areas that need it the most while still showing off those killer curves— it reshapes, tucks and tones instantly!   Gone are the days of uncomfortable, restrictive shape wear.  MeMoi’s Shapewear state-of-the-art design and fabrics mean looking fabulous and feeling carefree and confident CAN be a reality—for only $30.00!

MSM_118_black

 SlimMe’s Full Control Slip is:

  • Made from 90% Nylon and 10% Spandex
  • Tagless and seamless for maximum comfort
  • Available in four sizes: small, medium, large and extra large
  • Available in black or nude
  • Machine washable in cold water
  • 100% satisfaction guaranteed

    •  

In business for over 20 years, MeMoi was founded on the principle that every woman is beautiful and deserves impeccable products.  Developed by top industry experts, MeMoi understands what a woman is looking for when it comes to shape wear, lingerie and undergarments, using only high quality fabrics and cutting edge techniques in the fabrication of their products.  It is their desire that women will fall in love with their ultramodern shape wear which provides dramatic results at reasonable prices.

Memoi-MSM125-black_large

Beauty /

Paper Wedding Dress: Beautiful Haute Couture Design

I had to share this post with my readers!  The following photos were sent via my aunt Gloria from Bishop State Community College. Erica Hunter, Graphic Communications Technology Instructor, created and designed the beautiful dress seen below.  What makes this wedding dress so special is that it’s created with the use of PAPER!
She and her students worked to design the dress for an event called The Arts in Technical Education for Bishop State.  The dress is (now) on display in the lobby on the school campus.  How beautiful and creative was this design…Style + Life + Fashion approved!
IMG_0616IMG_0601
Accessories /

The Art of Thrifting – How To Guide

Thrift shopping has become “the cool kids” way of updating their wardrobe and I have always adored thrifting.  It’s one of my favorite hobbies since the age of 15 and allowed me to express my individual style.

My dad could never understand my obsession with consignment/thrift shops.  He gave me money for clothing but instead of spending it at McCraes (which is now Belks) I would ask my mom to drive me to the thrift shop.

I think it was the experience of understanding clothing construction that attracted me to this hobby.  In the process of shopping, I learned a lot about fabrics and fixtures.  I also learned how to properly care for clothing because some items need to be dry cleaned while others required fabric softener.

Thankfully my mom never rejected my obsession because she also enjoys thrifting.  To this day we call it “the closet” and when I visit my parents we turn this into a major event.  For us, it’s a bonding activity and a perfect opportunity to neglect the budget planner for a little while, and still somehow save money!

I do recognize that thrifting’s not for everyone but I think it’s about strategy.  There’s an art to thrifting that many may not understand and some of us have the true knack of finding a good deal.  I want to help those who may not understand how to thrift and share in this experience.

IMG_2938
Thrifted Skirt, Handbag, Belt, and Dress

 

Step Number One:  I read fashion magazines like Instyle or People StyleWatch to recognize what’s fashionable for the season.   When I’m shopping, I will instantly gravitate towards that trendy pair of white seersucker pants hanging on the rack.

Step Number Two:  Know your body type before shopping consignment/thrift stores.  Entering a thrift store can be overwhelming because there’s so much merchandise.  You want to select items that compliment your figure and NOT because it’s a designer blouse.  Nothing’s worse than paying $12 dollars for something that doesn’t work and you can NOT take back to the store.

Step Number Three:  Search for quality fabrics or what I like to call (this is my fashion degree moment) natural fibers.  They tend to hold up well in the course of wearing and look chic.

Step Number Four:  Always, Always, Always, Always, overlook the garment.  Do not purchase anything without searching the garment from top to bottom.  For example, if you have a blazer in your basket search the pockets for tears, look at the buttons to see if one’s missing, or whether there’s a hole in the fabric.  This is a very important step to thrifting.

Step Number Five:  This may come as a surprise but thrift shops actually have sale days.  Check with the sales associates or look around the store for sales.  Also, keep up with the store discounts; for example, if a ticket has a red sticker your item could be 50% off.

You’re probably asking what type of items have I found while thrifting?  Well,  you’ve actually seen a few of the items on this site but I’ve purchased a fur coat (my first one in graduate school) Louis Vuitton wallet, Ralph Lauren sweaters, BCBG pumps, vintage sunglasses and clutch purses, denim jeans, wool plaid swing coat (my favorite in college) knee boots, and the list goes on!

Nothing says “chic” better than mixing vintage couture and fabulous accessories.