How To: Shop Your Closet and Create Instant Outfits

Would you believe that I have not been in the mood to shop?  That’s because I’ve been practicing social distancing and focusing on virtual events.  But, there’s always a solution to every problem.

One perspective is that I have always been an advocate for shopping in your closet.  There are so many wonderful pieces in there that you have probably forgotten about.  From accessories to midi dresses, I can guarantee that you’re closets are filled with instant outfits.

A suggestion that I share with my Personal Style clients is to create outfits (in your spare time.)  The worst time to figure out a hot look is right before any event.  Life is a lot easier when you have something to wear!

The outfit shown below is an example of just that.  I was leaving out the door for a lunch date and needed to put on pieces that exuded my personal style.

Cape BlazerAmazon | Cami & JeansExpress | Strappy Heels:  Target similar | Crossbody:  Louis Vuitton similar

 

Style 101: Dress According To Your Profession #OOTD or #WIW

As a creative professional, I am often called into meetings that require a stylish flair.  Long gone are the days of wearing the boring, basic black suit.  In this day and age, women are seen wearing pink pencil skirts and vinyl pointy heels.

Back to the post!  I was scheduled for a consultation and needed an upbeat look.  One way to achieve a fashionable but yet professional outfit is to pair traditional clothing pieces with an on-trend pattern or accessory.  For example, wear a striped blazer with a lace camisole.

In the look below, I’m wearing a leopard button-down blouse, high-waisted dress pants, and denim jacket.  To elevate this outfit, I wore my favorite tassel earrings.

Style 101:  Dress according to your individualized profession!

A few additional stylish business dress tips include:

  1.  Wear a wrap dress.
  2.  Select blazers in bold colors or neutral tones such as camel or red.
  3. Purchase a crisp white shirt but select various styles such as puff sleeves.
  4. Great professional accessories include wearing a logo belt or a vintage scarf.
  5. Keep up with the time by wearing a statement watch.

Denim Jacket:  America’s Consignment and Thrift | Leopard Shirt & Tassel Earrings:  Express | Crossbody Handbag:  Louis Vuitton similar

If you like this post click here:  TENTH STREET TRIPOLI FISHERMAN HAT: CASUAL SHOPPING OUTFIT

 

Creating A Signature Style: Moto Jacket, Plaid Ankle Pants, and Quilted Clutch #OOTD or #WIW

The best way to determine if you made a good purchase is when you wear something multiple times.  That’s how I feel about the burgundy moto jacket seen in feature the photo.

I originally bought this jacket as part of my fall capsule wardrobe and has served as a great staple piece!

Creating A Signature Style:

My week normally ends by attending a church service with my family.  Therefore, I need a closet filled with blouses, blazers, dresses, and skirts.

After taking a test, I discovered that my signature style is considered to be chic; meaning I prefer a powerful look and sharp lines.

Understanding your personal style is one of the first steps towards looking your best.  It enables you to shop according to items that catch your eye and not necessarily what’s seen on a store mannequin.

The plaid ankle pants and v-cut mules I’m wearing are from Express.  If you follow my Instagram account, you are right, I shop there very often because they carry Petite sizes.

Remember, clothing and dress communicates your personality, mood, and attitude!

Moto Leather:  New York & Company | Handbag:  YSL Clutch Comparison | Pants:  High Waisted Plaid Ankle Pant

Do you need help in discovering your personal style?  Contact Kimberly West Styling & PR and schedule an appointment.

If you like this post, click here:  Everyday Style and Lookbook Inspiration

#CyberMonday Sale: Express Sherpa Sweatshirt

If you follow my Instagram page there’s no secret that I love to shop at Express.

They have been my go-to store for years due to a number of reasons:

  1. I have never purchased a clothing piece from Express and the item faded during the laundry cycle.
  2. Express clothing has true sizing and length.  I am short but have curves; seeking to only shop in stores that accentuate my unique body type.
  3. The coupons at Express are phenomenal.  I have purchased high-ticketed items for almost 50% off and received numerous compliments.
  4. No one can resist their high-quality jeans.  Express has a variety of styles and sizes starting with 00 up to 25.  There’s no issue finding a flattering fit because they carry Flared, Bootcut, Wide Leg, Skinny, and Cropped.

In honor of Cyber Monday, Express is running a massive sale.  Right now, everything in the store is 50% off.  You can either visit the retailer or shop online from the comfort of your home.

Don’t forget that sizes go fast so if you see something that catches your eye, grab it now.

I can’t wait to build my wardrobe with key pieces from Express!

Visit my Pinterest or Instagram account for style inspiration; purchases will be shared on IG stories.

Sherpa Quarter Zip Sweatshirt

Express Partner      

#OOTD or #WIW Sweet Pea Hi-Lo Off The Shoulder Blouse: Valentine’s Day Casual Look

Last Thursday was Valentine’s Day and I’m sure that everyone wanted the perfect outfit.  Ever since being a kid, I have enjoyed dressing up for this holiday.

I was planning to purchase items from another store but lost track of my weekly schedule between digital marketing, business consultations, and civic meetings.  Either way, I ran over to one of my favorite retailers (since college) to purchase a blouse.  I already planned to wear skinny jeans and rose gold booties.

The Sweet Pea Hi-Lo Off The Shoulder Blouse was a nice addition to the items in my closet.  I also wore a pair of rose gold chandelier earrings but they were not visible in the photo.

My valentine’s day gift was the bracelet seen on my wrist.  As the day unfolded we enjoyed lunch and was surprised by a new family pet!

Hi-Lo Blouse:  New York & Company | Booties:  Express

Most Shopped Influencer Products of 2018 #LIKEtoKNOWit

LIKEtoKNOWit – today’s leading shopping app to search real products, styled by real people – took a look back and is excited to announce the “most shopped influencer products of 2018” as part of their 2018 LIKEtoKNOWit Awards!

Featured Photo from CREEPERS & CUPCAKES 

As many of you may know, LIKEtoKNOWit features fashion, fitness, home, family and beauty content.

See below for 2018’s most popular products!

Looking Your Best: Quality Pieces and Seasonal Colors

The last few weeks have been extremely busy.  From moving into a new subdivision to developing my business structure.  Despite the busyness of life, I believe in looking your best.  This concept varies from day-to-day.

Featured Photo Pleated Shift Dress:  New York & Company

For example, crazy school mornings call for leggings and a pull-over.  While afternoon meetings include a blazer, jeans, and flats.  I dress according to the occasion; no heels at the grocery store.

Looking your best doesn’t have to cost a fortune.  Simple quality pieces can update any outfit.  For example, gold earrings, silk scarves, structured handbag, diamond studs, leather belt, and trench coat can pull together last-minute appearance.

Lately, I’m a huge believer in wearing seasonal colors.  Some of us love the classic tone of wearing black but why not try a Lavender t-shirt or Sky Blue earrings?  Fashion can be a fun experience when we coordinate and invest the time!

Leaving the news station with a client.

Belted Shirt Dress Comparison: Forever 21   | Sunglasses:  Target | Blanket Scarf Comparison:  Amazon | Handbag Comparison: Saks Fifth Avenue

Added Color Strip Extensions from Hairdo

Peplum Blazer:  Amazon | Denim Leggings:  Express | Handbag Comparison:  Belk

 

Everyday Style and Goal Setting: #OOTD OR #WIW

Recently, I have shared several Instagram photos wearing a blanket scarf and coordinating accessories.  Primarily because it’s very cold and blanket scarfs are a quick option to add a touch of chic to any outfit.

They’re inexpensive and layer over sweaters, button-down shirts, and cute dresses.  I’ve also struggled with keeping my head warm and will quickly grab a leather hat.

Aside from the brisk weather we are embarking upon the New Year.  This is the perfect time to re-evaluate goals, aspirations, and relationships whether it’s family or friends.

I have started to map out the direction of my personal and professional objectives. A few of my goals are volunteering and implementing new elements to my business.

I like to take goal setting a step forward by purchasing organizational tools that will keep me on track.  What are your goals for the upcoming year?  How do you re-evaluate and make changes?

Going to church with my family.

Blanket Scarf ComparisonAmazon | Vernis Handbag:  Louis Vuitton | Sash Waist Pants:  Express

Holiday shopping at my favorite craft store.

Camouflage Dress ComparisonMacy’s | Lipstick:  M.A.C. Cosmetics | Riding BootsJCPenney

Going to church on a rainy day.

Color Block Heels:  America’s Thrift & Consignment | Blanket Scarf ComparisonAmazon | Velvet Matte Foundation Stick:  NARS Cosmetics | Lipstick:  STILA Cosmetics

The Contemporary Romper: Summer Fashion Statement

The contemporary romper is always up for debate.  Some say it’s the equivalent of a middle school outfit and others believe it’s a wardrobe staple.

Featured Photo from People.com

Wearing a romper can be a great choice. It’s both casual and dressy; worn with sneakers, wedges, or diamond studs.

To look amazing in a romper, it has to fit appropriately.  Rompers should drape nicely (on the shoulders) and taper to the waist.  Also, the sleeves should not extend beyond the wrist or pant length extremely short.

Rompers are fashionable, sexy, and comfortable.  Take a look at the option below:

Express.com

What To Wear: AMI Clubwear Affordable Swimsuits

Buying the perfect swimsuit can be a difficult task.  There’s a conflict between looking our best and feeling comfortable.

AMI Clubwear has a wide selection of fashion-forward swimsuits. The online boutique’s a great option for vacation packing or water activities.

The Tribal Mesh Cut One-Piece (shown below) was an excellent addition to my swimwear wardrobe. It’s lightly padded with adjustable straps. Going to the pool or beach with my kids can be a daunting task without the outdoor attire.

Swimsuit:  AMI Clubwear | Denim Shorts:  Express

Take your swimsuit to the next level with denim shorts or wear a lightweight kimono.

Also, when purchasing swimwear don’t forget to choose the right cut for your body-type; find a color that compliments your complexion and consider the primary purpose or activity.  For example, monokinis are not encouraged for tanning.

Visit AMI Clubwear to purchase a stylish, affordable swimsuit.