Floral Culottes and my tip for styling a button down Shirt

Hi Friends, it's been a while. I have been taking these mini vacations from the blog lately; not my intention to do so but I am loving it. I have been having so much fun behind the scenes. The kids are home on summer break and we have been spending time together doing lots of fun activities which involves lots of eating too. If you notice, I have put on some extra pounds which I don't plan to keep on 😁 This outfit is what I wore to Church on Sunday for the Father's Day Celebration and I love how formal yet playful it looks. I have had this floral culottes for a long time now. I purchased it from Loft two summers ago along with this matching prints summer dress blogged about here.    

          

Why I can't get enough of the Animal Prints trend

When you think the animal prints trend is fading away, it re-invents itself in a very chic and edgy way. It was all about the leopard prints last fall and then snake prints came into the scene and the trend is going stronger than ever. The snake prints skirt is the new it-trend of the season and I just can't get enough of it because it is so classy and edgy. It is even better when the skirt is in pleats; you know I love me a pleat skirt. This one I'm wearing is from HM and it sold out pretty quickly because the price was super affordable. There is a similar style here but the price is steep. I also love this dress here sans the sleeves. I wish the sleeves was a little more modest.

7 Years Blog Anniversay and my tip for re-styling an old strapless dress

So, it is my seven years blog anniversary; I started this blog in March 2012 as a therapeutic hobby and I have enjoyed the journey every bit of the way. Owning a fashion blog has helped me grow so much in my personal and social life and believe me when I tell you that it takes a lot of discipline to run a blog of any sort; whether you own one for business or financial reasons or for pleasure. When you are consistent with your blog posts, you start to see your blog as a "friend" or "a part of your family," so to speak. As a fashion blogger, you keep an eye out for trends, you plan outfits for the blog,  take pictures, do photo editing and blog designs and layouts and then lots and lots of writing  and editing. Blogging is basically supposed to be a full time job of its own and if you do not love it or have a passion for it, you cannot do it for long. I am happy I started this blog; I am happy for the therapy it brought me over the years and the patience and discipline it has taught me and I am thankful for all the amazing blogger friends I've made along the way. This blog is still a hobby and I do not run it for profit or financial reasons and I'm grateful for the independence and freedom I get for running it on my own terms.

Spring Pleats

Spring is around the corner; about twenty days away but still closer than ever. There are so many things we can do in the next few weeks preparing for spring but we will focus on fashion here because this is a fashion blog. How about starting with this beautiful pleated skirt collage fashion/mood board? Pleated skirts have become a classic since they burst into the fashion scene a couple of years ago and there is basically a style of pleated skirt for every season. The heavier fabrics; suede, velvet and metallic pleated skirts are a big trend in the fall and winter months while the lighter fabrics and styles like the prints, polka dots and floral pleated skirts are a huge trend for spring and summer. The multicolor graphic pleated skirt is the statement piece in the set below. The colors in the skirt are a juxtaposition of dark and bright colors thereby making the piece appropriate for winter and spring. Check out the beautiful pleated skirt here.

This outfit set above can be referred to as a transition set; a cool way of incorporating two season's styles into an outfit. It is still winter but then spring is around the corner, kind of outfit. I paired the skirt with a black high neck blouse and a pair of sleek black ankle boots. The tan bag complements the colors in the skirt and the earrings add a pop of color. While the above pleated skirt is beautiful, it is very pricey but there are other low prized colorful pleated skirts that can be used to recreate this look. Check out some of the affordable selections below.

Staying stylish in Winter one step at a time

The weather might be cold and snowy but our style do not have to be boring. I admit that my winter style might not be as fabulous or colorful as my summer or nice weather style; to be honest, I just want to wrap myself in blankets on very cold days. One thing I do not take for grated however is my shoes. I always make sure I have a cute and comfortable pair of shoes on my feet. To stay stylish in the winter time, just make sure your accessories are colorful and chic. So, if you tend to wear long dark coats the whole winter, make sure your gloves, hats, mittens and gloves are on the colorful side to keep your spirit up. If you give up and just eliminate all forms of color and style from your winter wardrobe, you might end up with the winter blues which can lead to a serious case of depression. (Yes, depression is higher in the winter time and it is usually attributed to the dreary winter weather) To elevate your style and your steps, consider adding a pair from these selection of winter boots. They are all grey or neutral in color and are ankle boots but they are stylish and cute and you can find one that lifts up your mood based on your style. Happy shopping.

Shoe Lovin': Scarf Boots

        This scarf pointed-toe brown booties caught my attention on the Neiman Marcus Website and the product information on the site lists it as leather booties with 2.4 covered stiletto heels and back zip, leather lining, smooth outsole, printed text; "for walking" and removable printed scarf. Yes, that scarf you see on the booties is removable and the boots started off at $1, 605 with a recent price reduction to $481.00.

Leopard Print Cardigan: A twist in the trend

The leopard prints trend seem to be going strong even in the winter months and the pieces are just getting more stylish and fun; leopard prints pleated skirts like in this Post here and here and leopard prints pants and culottes. I love leopard prints cardigan or sweater because they are unique and add interest to the winter wardrobe. A cardigan/sweater is a versatile piece on its own that can be styled for work and or play and when it is in a stylish animal print, it elevates an outfit. For styling inspiration for work, pair a colorful leopard print cardigan in a dark shade with trousers and ankle pants and for play, pair it with a pair of blue or dark colored denim. Just don't forget to keep the accessories neutral.

Holiday Style: Green Circle Skirt + Plaid

Hi Friends; happy last day of the year or happy New Year’s Eve. We all know that the Christmas holiday is over so I'm sure you are surprised seeing me in a Christmas-color outfit on new year's eve as opposed to sequins and glitter. Do not worry I have my new year's eve outfit picked already for our New Year's eve service in Church later tonight. This outfit is what I wore to church yesterday; the last Sunday of the year. I decided to go in these colors to remind myself that Christmas celebration really should be everyday. The reason for the celebration of the holiday is to remind us of the birth of our savior Jesus Christ who came to earth in human form, born of holy conception and died on the cross and resurrected three days later to give us the gift of salvation. It's just an awesome feeling to be reminded of this truth everyday of the year and I hope you believe and have faith in redemption too.

Holiday Lookbook: Blazer + Faux fur Stole

Happy Thursday Friends 😃 I'm here today with another holiday look; a casual outfit featuring holiday accessories. Most of the time, we ladies, spend too much money buying new outfits for the holiday season when we have a closet full of clothes and I must say I am guilty of this too. I always feel like I need something new and do not want to wear my last holiday season outfits again this year. This time, I decided to reduce the stress of shopping for new outfits (although I have my eyes on this beautiful skirt here)  to put new holiday outfits together from pieces and accessories that I already own in my closet and that is how this look came about. This outfit is a look you can wear to casual holiday parties; you know the one that is not so formal; maybe a Christmas party hosted by your friends or an after work Christmas dinner with your co-workers. The foundation for this outfit; a blazer, a pair of blue denim and a white top are clothes or pieces that we already own in our closet. I used holiday or special occasion accessories; the sparkly belt, silver metallic heels, a faux fur stole and sequin metallic clutch to add a holiday touch to the outfit. The statement earrings were purchased on sale at Target over the summer and the statement belt was purchased from Asos and blogged about here. What other casual holiday event do you think this outfit is appropriate for? I think if you switch out the denim for regular dress pants, this outfit would definitely go to several events and even to a very special place, the Church. Thank you so much for stopping by.

Holiday Lookbook: Sequin Skirt + Floral Pumps

A sequin skirt is an essential holiday piece because you can create several outfits with it. This pencil sequin mesh skirt from Chico's has since sold out but there are other designs available like this piece here and this beautiful metallic piece here. When it comes to styling sequin pieces, the styling options are quite versatile. For this look, I paired my skirt with a short sleeve turtle neck top from Boohoo and floral pumps with jewel embellishments; a pair I purchased years ago. A pair of disc earrings  and a bracelet and velvet envelope clutch similar here completed the look. This look is a mix of textures; sequins, velvet and floral which embodies the Christmas spirit; the coming together of families and friends to celebrate birth of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Jesus is the reason for the season everyone. This look can be worn to any informal event like a Christmas party, dinner date or any other holiday gatherings. For a more formal look, throw on a blazer and you are good to go.

Jewelry Sale

If you are looking to buy some jewelry for yourself or a friend this holiday season, there is a sale going on currently at Loft. Many beautiful jewelry pieces; earrings, bracelets and necklaces have been marked down  at 40% off with code HOLIDAY. These pieces are great for stocking stuffers for young nieces, sisters and girlfriends. The selections on this list are some of my favorites. Check out the sale by clicking on the links below.

Shoe Lovin' - Glitter Satin Pumps

It is the season of sparkly and glitter and this pair of Jimmy Choo glitter pumps would add all the sparkles and shine you need to a holiday outfit. I love the iridescent color of the pumps which makes it great to pair with almost any outfit. Glitter pumps are special occasion shoes that can be worn to parties and events like weddings, showers, the whole year through and at the end of the year, they can become our favorite holiday shoe. At close to $800 a pair, these shoes are pretty expensive but the best time to snag a pair is during this holiday season when big designer stores give discounts or shopping points to their customers. A similar design is currently on sale at the Farfetch website here and low price replicas can be purchased  from smaller brands like this d'Orsay design on the Macy's website and this pair from Kate Spade. Happy shopping, happy styling.

Colorful Berets you need to complete your Holiday Outfit

Berets have been around for a long time and have added interest, textures and color to the outfits of stylish women for years. They might have originated from the wardrobes of Parisian women before spreading to other parts of the globe and now become a huge trend this fall. Berets are so stylish now more than ever before as they come in different fabrics and designs as opposed to the traditional plain wool or cashmere beret.

A colorful beret like the bright red pictured above found on the Shein Website can add a pop of color to any outfit. It can be paired with a monochrome outfit like an all black or all neutral outfit and can also be paired with florals and other patterns. The traditional wool beret also comes accessorized with pearls and sequins which add textures and interest to a regular or basic outfit. Then we have leather berets, plaid berets, sequins and even animal prints berets. 'want to add this stylish accessory to your wardrobe this fall and winter? Check out the selections below.

           

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The Camel Robe Coat: Formal Dress Essential

Happy Monday everyone and happy December. This is my favorite month in the year I tell you. I'm so looking forward to the Holiday/Christmas/New Year celebrations but I'm also hoping that time would slow down so that I can enjoy every bit of this season. If you are still looking to take advantage of all the discounts and sales at this time, you might want to add the long camel robe coat to your list. This is a closet essential if you ever dress up in formal attire for work or even dressing up for other events like weddings, Church services and formal parties. The robe coat is very elegant and classy and also very comfy and cozy. A good quality 100% wool coat is quite expensive and can be a big fashion investment. There are however, so many options available at different price points at different stores.

Thanksgiving Outfit: Eshakti Selections and New Customization Feature Review

Happy Thanksgiving Friends 😁 Are you ready to celebrate thanksgiving with your friends and family? Are you done with planning your menu and shopping for groceries? Do not forget that you have to dress up and look good on Thanksgiving day whether you are a host or a guest. If you are still thinking of outfit options to wear this weekend (Express shipping everyone...) or if you have not picked out your Christmas and New Year outfits yet, do not be anxious because Eshakti is the place where you can find the right outfit for any occasion. If you are not familiar with this brand by now, I'll tell you about it. Eshakti is an online store that specializes in women's fashion by offering retail and wholesale fashion. The store can customize a single dress for you or several dresses for you or your bridesmaids by their unique customization feature of altering neck lines, hem lengths, sleeve lengths; which you can read more about here and also fabric customization that let's you swap the fabric of particular styles that you like and you can read more about it here too.

Purple + Lilac + Calf hair Pumps

Purple is one of my favorite colors and I loved when it was the trending color this past spring. The color might have taken a back seat this fall because of the animal prints trend but not for me. I'm still riding the wave of the spring season pastel lilac trend 😉 I styled this pants previously in this post here and this styling is based on this inspiration mood board here. In order to keep my outfit updated, I just mixed in a dose of prints by wearing this calf hair prints pump; an old purchase from Victorias' Secret catalogue years ago. It's a hard to get a good quality pair of black and white calf hair, cheetah prints pumps these days because they sell out pretty fast. Check out this grey and black Sam Edelman's pump here. It is not calf hair but it's similar in color. We all know the brown colored leopard prints is more common than the black and white ones. So, if you want to make your leopard prints style unique this season, you definitely want to go for the color that is a little out of the box. Leopard prints come in so many different colors now and mixing two different colors of animal prints is another way of putting a twist to the trend. For this look, I just threw on my oversized purple cardigan over a black tank top paired with my lilac pants and I was good to go. Thanks so much for stopping by here.

Styling the little black dress (LBD) for Fall

We all have the little black dress in our closets and though this might be a dress that is reserved by many for special days and occasions, it can be styled for the fall weather on a regular day. My best LBD (LITTLE BLACK DRESS) to wear in the cold months is the sweater dress or knit dress. The fabric is meant for the colder months because it is warm and cozy to wear. However, any LBD can be worn irrespective of the material or fabric just by simple layering. In my outfit here, my dress is a sleeveless, turtle neck knit dress from Zara which I layered by wearing a long sleeve sweater underneath. The weather wasn't too cold so ankle boots was very appropriate to style with the dress. In colder weather, knee high or thigh high boots can be worn with some stockings as the need might be. I styled a maxi lace dress a few weeks ago by layering a cardigan over it as you can see in this post here. Also, you can add a pop of color to your look with the use of accessories like a colorful bag as I did in this post here where I styled this same dress. To update your LBD, you can style it with a snake print bag or a pair of snake print boots or pumps. As you know, the snake print trend is the rave this fall. Get out your LBDs and style and mix them into your fall  wardrobe. Thanks so much for stopping by here.

Leopard Prints Blazer + Pink Pants

Leopard print blazers are selling off fast everywhere and the available ones are just a bit on the steep side when it comes to price like this beautiful structured piece here. If you like the leopard print blazer trend for fall, you might want to do some smart shopping on sites like ebay or etsy. I scored the one I am wearing here at a thrift store years ago. Like I have said on this blog before; I love thrifting for blazers and actually have them in lots of colors and cuts and you can bet I was excited to get out my leopard print blazers for this season; yes, there are a couple of them. And I tell you, it can save you a lot of money and you get unique and vintage pieces. Another place to shop for used quality pieces is on app like Tradesy, Real-Real and Poshmark. I actually signed up on Poshmark a couple of months ago to sell some of my pieces that don't fit anymore but I'm yet to be active on the site. I'll let you know how that goes. If you are on Poshmark, let me know in the comment and I'll connect with you.

White sweat shirt + Plaid Skirt

Happy throwback Thursday 😀 This is another throwback look on the blog today; I'm wearing a simple sweat shirt over a plaid pencil skirt. I purchased this plaid pencil skirt from New York & Company two summers ago and I must say I really loved the plaid print when I first saw it online. I also like this bold plaid trousers here and here. I thought of all kinds of pairings for it; black tops and black pointed pumps, white tops and black pointed pumps with blue accents and then I purchased this blue satin bow mules late in the summer and I knew I wanted to do a fall pairing and that's how I put this simple outfit together. I love that this satin mules which have been in heavy rotation in my closet, can be paired with pretty much any piece. I added my blue tassel earrings for an added pop of blue and used my vintage patent purse to pull the look together. I'm definitely thinking of giving this satin mules the break it deserves now. This look can be worn to grown up events like PTA meetings, blog partnership meet-ups and casual business meetings and most importantly Church. Happy Thursday and thank you so much for reading.

Animal Prints Accessories

While we are still talking about the animal prints trend for fall, this post is about affordable animal prints accessories; scarfs and bags. It might be a little overwhelming for some people to wear animal prints clothing and one way of indulging in this trend so it does not get overwhelming is the use of accessories like scarfs, bags, belts and shoes. To make your look more interesting, you can mix the prints like I did in this post HERE with my snake print bucket bag from Ann Taylor that has since sold out and this leopard print scarf from Charlotte Russe. Animal prints bags and scarfs are selling out very fast right now but if you are still on the look out for affordable bags and scarfs, check out the shopping links below.

                                                          See original post HERE

                                                         HERE                                       HERE

                                                             HERE                                     HERE