Oh boyfriend jeans :)

I love my boyfriend jeans.  Maybe it's because they always fit :)  Maybe it's because they are already "broken in", maybe it's because they are so versatile.  Maybe it's a bit of all 3.  I am reinventing my boyfriend jeans a bit so I thought I would share a couple of new looks.  

If you don't own a pair of these lovelies you really should invest in a pair.  Please, though, take just a little advice.  Buy the  pair that fit you the best.  Please please please do not go down 2 or 3 sizes because either someone assisting you in the store advised that you could or because you like the smaller number.  The fit of a boyfriend jean is different than any other jean you have.  It is meant to fit as if you "borrowed" your boyfriend's pants.  We know this is pretend but for the sake of the jean, play along.  The jean should fit looser, more relaxed and more "broken in". To the other extreme - the jean should not be so loose it's falling off but think relaxed fit when you are trying on.  We are so used to skinny jeans, bootcut, low rise and all the rest so this will be different.  As far as length,  it looks best with at least a small cuff on the bottom.  If you are somewhat shorter in height (like me) try the look on and determine what is the best cuff for the shoes and your legs.  For us more height challenged ladies, I usually like to show a bit more of the calf than a taller gal has to worry about.  

Once you have found a pair you love and brought them home here are a couple of ways to wear them.  

Look one - Dressy casual/chic/effortless.  Pair your jeans with a t-shirt, but not just a simple t-shirt.  The shirt pictured here has some sparkle which adds the "girly" to the boyfriend.  Another top option would be a sleeveless turtleneck with a simple white blouse layered underneath.  You barely do a tuck of just a small piece of the blouse in the front.  You finish this look by barely cuffing the jean and wearing a great pair of booties.  The booties dress this look up just enough to appear it was effortless. 

Look two - Menswear inspired.  Pair your boyfriends with a more feminine blouse and then finish the look with menswear oxfords - no socks please.  The first top pictured is a simple floral blouse soft and flowy which is a great contrast to the jeans and shoes.  The other top option is one with a feminine feel with some interest in the back like one pictured from Loft. I also show the t-shirt again, you know the one with a little sparkle :)  I love this ode to menswear.  When you get this right I think it's just the right amount of sexy/attractive/pretty (choose your own word here that makes you feel pretty ) 

There are sooo many options for boyfriend jeans out there.  Try, try and try again until you get the best fit for you and then have fun creating your look.  

Own your style !!  

fashion accessory?

So it's the holiday party season, right?  Whether you plan on attending lots of holiday parties or you are looking for inspiration to add new life to some existing outfits, consider an accessory you are always wearing anyway...your fingernails.  A well manicured set of fingernails add not only the finishing touch to your outfit, but also a touch of class I think.  Manicures do not have to cost a lot of money.  You can easily make  your nails beautiful at home with a simple clean-up, filing, and fresh coat of polish.  There are so many options for at home polishes, systems, etc. on the market this can easily be accomplished.  If you would rather trust the expert schedule an appointment with a reputable manicurist.  If you are going to try something new such as acrylics or even a french manicure, I would suggest you leave that to a professional manicurist for sure.

When I say manicure,  I am not talking about nail art, embellishments, and color ...apologies if that's what you are looking for.  I think updating your nail look is a great way to add "a little something" to your look for this time of year. Let me say again,  I am a huge proponent keeping your nails looking good regardless the time of year.  But, now that we are in the holiday season it's a great time to take your nail look "up a notch".  Some great examples of this might be something as simple as  changing your color story.  If you typically go for dark shades experiment with a pale blush shade or perhaps a french manicure.  Do you typically keep it simple, maybe even bare nails?  Step outside your comfort zone and go for a bright red nail.  

I decided to try step away from my "usual" which is typically a dark nail or often times I have alternate a couple of different shades on different fingers like this recent manicure

With a couple of holiday parties coming up (and because I was feeling festive) I decided to jump on the "almond-nail" trend.  The almond nail is just as it says, an almond shaped nail.  :)  But, as you can see from the photo above, my short nails would never do that by themselves.  My ever-willing and creative manicurist was more than willing to make it work on my otherwise "stubby-like" fingers. (my words not hers)  So, she applied tips, shaped them to almonds and painted in a lovely blush tone to keep the look classy.  

I love the look achieved here.  Simple and classy yet still a little trendy.  If I were going to a party tonight I would lean towards a more classic look with my little black dress and perhaps some pearls.  Instead if  I were going for something a bit more trendy or edgy I would change the polish color to something dark or a bright gorgeous holiday red for sure.  

Call me "old fashioned" if you want, but I believe a woman's look isn't complete unless her nails look great as well.  Whether you decided a plain, simple (even bare) manicured nail is your thing or you want to go all out with a nail look...don't forget your nails are the accessory you are always wearing.  

p.s. if you are a local West Michigan gal and need a manicure from a professional I have someone to recommend...just email me for more information.  

Little Black Dress, 2 sassy casual looks

Whether it be date night or dinner with friends (or dinner with some new folks) the LBD (little black dress) is a great go-to piece.  The dress pictured in the two looks below happens to be one of my favs and was listed in a recent "top 10 fall favs"  I did on Instagram.  Unfortunately the dress is longer available but here is something similar  http://origin-www.loft.com/leopard-textured-flare-dress/386658?skuId=19674582&defaultColor=6600&colorExplode=false&catid=catl000013

In the first look I layered the denim jacket over the short-sleeved dress and added a great statement necklace for the extra "sass".

In the second look, same idea but this time I added the denim layer underneath by using a great basic denim shirt.  I finished the look with the same necklace. 

Footwear was next.  I love choices :)  I start with opaque black tights and finish off with either my favorite MaryJanes from Kork-Ease or my brown leather boots.  First, the MaryJanes - they are platform in style with a great shaped toe box lending to comfort and style at the same time.  (here is something similar http://www.zappos.com/product/8588644/color/9609).

If you know me at all, you know that I love the versatility of denim pieces.  By combining the denim with the sass of the necklace you have a great style in both looks which shows off just enough sass - not too casual and not too dressy or stuffy.  The footwear choices help complete the look perfectly.  The details on the boot, the style of the shoe both help keep your LBD from going "country" (you know you know what I mean).  I love giving the dress as many chances as possible to be worn time and time again yet never look the same.  

Now its your turn...find that dress and make it look different and wear it out for dinner.  Don't just keep it in your closet for cocktail parties.  

Own your style !

Loft black dress, jean jacket, sassy statement necklace

Loft black dress, jean jacket, sassy statement necklace

Same black dress, denim shirt underneath, same sassy statement necklace 

Same black dress, denim shirt underneath, same sassy statement necklace 

Choice of footwear ... tights with either my favorite maryjanes or the option of this versatile brown boot that has touch of black at the toe

Choice of footwear ... tights with either my favorite maryjanes or the option of this versatile brown boot that has touch of black at the toe

Shopping:  

unfortunately the dress is sold out http://origin-www.loft.com/quilted-short-sleeve-dress/364664.  Here is something similar http://origin-www.loft.com/leopard-textured-flare-dress/386658?skuId=19674582&defaultColor=6600&colorExplode=false&catid=catl000013

My favorite MaryJanes are also sold out but here is a similar pair http://www.zappos.com/product/8588644/color/9609

Gift Ideas for Some of your Favs

Here is your shopping weekend update:  you have only 5 weekends to shop for Christmas and  3 weekends until Hanukkah!  If you are anything like me, some of the most important people in your life are your friends, your besties, your posse.    If you have read any of my previous posts and know me at all, you know I love shopping.  I love gift giving!  I love thinking about the person and choosing the perfect gift for them regardless of the holiday or reason.  I would love to spend tons of money on all the people that mean so much to me but alas, reality sets in.   I have put together a short list of some of my favorite things to give.  The ideas can be seen as more of an "idea" or "theme" starter if you just need some inspiration.  Otherwise I also have the specific shopping information if you choose.  I am a fan of shopping local so for some of these ideas if you aren't in West Michigan you would need to source locally (*think macarons).  Let me also say, if you are a "crafty" person and make beautiful hand-made items - go for it - I think that always means so much to the receiver.  However, for me ....not an area I am even remotely talented in.  

Here we go:

1)  Give your besties jewelry.  But not just jewelry.  Add the personal touch to it.  A couple of my favs would be the engraveable collection from Stella & Dot and the whole buildable idea from Origami Owl.  First the Stella & Dot - you can spend a lot or a little - choose a chain and build it up with charms or go simple which affords you the opportunity to add to it in the future.  You can engrave special dates, ideas, words, etc on the pieces.  If there is a circle of girlfriends you are close to you could actually choose the same theme and gift to all.  I love the versatility in the pieces and the selection is amazing.  As a side note...the service and the packaging from Stella & Dot is amazing.  Along the same line is Origami Owl.  You choose lockets and add charms to the lockets.  Again, the colors, charms, overall selection is vast as is the styling.  There are more "edgy" choices in black metals or lighter silver styles.  The idea here is again personal and buildable for future gifts.  Again, packaging is adorable.  

2)  Do you have girlfriend that's a planner?  Loves to write personal notes?  Super organized...um or perhaps needs help getting organized?  Maybe she doesn't enjoy trying to do the calendar-on-the-phone thing (that's me).  I love the gift of a more personal and creative planner.  The Erin Condren Life Planner is A-mazing.  You can make it more personalized by adding a cover with her name on it - even her company name if you choose.  The planner craze is out there.  She can buy stickers galore from Etsy shops and truly plan like crazy.  I love it because it's got some fashion sense :)  *Tip - Order NOW - these take a bit to get to you. You can also order the planner now and order additional covers in the future.  Along with the planner idea/theme is personalized stationery.  I love to give a gift that the person would not normally buy for themselves but I know they would truly enjoy.  

3)  Every girl needs some pampering time.  I love the idea of bath products but what I love even more is the "out of the box" gift...again something she might not normally buy for herself.  We all visit our favorite bath and body store or department from time to time, come on ...I know you do.  But I think the products from Lush are a step beyond.  The packaging alone is beyond.  

4)  Who doesn't love tasty treats?  I love love love macarons.  I love Champagne.  I love the idea of combining the two.  The beautiful box of macarons from Le Bon Macaron  (www.lebonmacaron.com) here in Grand Rapids almost makes me giddy.  I think the idea of a "gift basket" of sorts with macarons, some champagne, and even some pretty glasses would be amazing and truly special.  Not a fan of the champagne idea?  Think latte or teas and pretty cups.  This is one of those unexpected gifts but so thoughtful.  Another of those treats she probably wouldn't put together for herself but would love to receive.

5)  The gift of beauty ...but what to give?  NOT a gift card...no not ever.  The idea of a short beauty subscription is awesome.  Birchbox subscriptions start at 3 months.  So for 3 months in a row your bestie will receive a box full of fun treasures (usually not full size I must tell you) from the beauty world to try for herself.  Again, love the packaging and the fact she will receive treats for 3 months - what a fun reminder of your friendship.

6)  It's not possible to have too many bags and too many choices of sizes in bags.  Handbags, totebags, coin purses, etc.  Love the idea of these little bags/pouches for your bestie.  I love the idea that you could choose the same style for each bestie in your circle and even from some merchants have the pouches monogrammed.  I think this another example of the unexpected and I love it for that reason.

Shop now so you are sure to not only get the best selection but just as important is getting the gift in time without any panic or stress.  You never know, something might end up in your "cart" that you can't live without either :)  

It's been forever....right?

It's been forever since I have posted.  We moved, sent the kid to college, lost my most beloved best friend... all in the span of less than a month.  I am back.  I wanted to post a quick thought as I begin dressing for fall...seriously I am over 50 but that doesn't mean I am ready to buy my pants in various shades of polyester from the insert of the Sunday paper... you know what I am talking about.  Here's my idea for how to wear a flannel :)  Make your day great and #ownyourstyle 

 

 

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It's that time of year...

We are fast approaching a new season (my fav)..fall.  It's time.  Time to start thinking about changing the  seasons in your closet.  Time to purge spring and summer and begin looking at your fall wardrobe.  

Spring/Summer Purge - This is usually pretty easy for me.  At this time in the season if you know there are pieces that won't make it to see another summer go ahead and purge them from your closet now.  If they are "consignment-worthy" pack them away for early spring/late winter when consignment stores start accepting them.  If they are in okay condition for donating - get them outta there!  If they are neither,  say good-bye and throw them away.  Once you have done that small "edit"  your closet should be good until the season actually changes.  By the way, this is a great time to purge undergarments, pajamas, and active wear that you know has seen better days.  (need I say more?)

Now that you've done that it's time to start thinking fall essentials.  This is the time of year that is best to "freshen" your basics wardrobe for the beginning of the new season.  Let's talk fall, specifically.  Take inventory of your layering pieces such as camis, tanks, layering t-shirts, and basic long sleeve t-shirts.  Are there colors you need to replace?  Think basic neutrals such as white, black, and gray.  Is the white still true white?  No arm pit issues or pills?  Is the black still true black or has it become slightly black-gray?  This is true of both camis and any type of t-shirt.  Replenish those items now before the season hits and you can't find what you need.  The same would be true for leggings (especially black).  Next, check your tights.  Is what you currently have on hand all free of snags, runs, holes, etc.  Is the color still true?  Do you have all the colors you need?  Gray is a great neutral to add if you don't have it already.  Okay, doing good so far and now on to undergarments.  I don't think I need to say a lot but check your inventory.  Replace what you know you should.  Many retailers offer multiple purchase deals especially as we head in to a season.  You've seen the offers - many stores will do camis at a lower price for multiples over 2 for example; the same is true for long sleeve t-shirts in many stores.  For undergarments many stores offer deals on multiple panties and sometimes even bras.  The same is true in many cases for tights and trouser socks if you wear those.  Take advantage of these deals now while the selection is at it's best.  You all know how this works...it's 80 degree days and then poof!! all of the sudden it's 65 degrees and fashionistas everywhere panic and shop!

A basic often overlooked is denim.  August and September are the two best months for buying denim.  It's like the grown-up of version of back-to-school sales.  Again, this is when selection in color, size and variety is at its best - take advantage of that.  

Lastly, though not often thought of as a basic, it's one of my favs - the cardigan.  I believe every woman should have at the very least a black cardigan in her clothes show.  Check yours over - still black?  No holes?  No buttons missing?  Still in shape?  If not, replace it now so it's there and waiting.

I get it, you summer lovers don't want to say good-bye to the warm/hot weather and we aren't just yet.  But be ready, before you know it you'll be looking for your fall favs and ordering a pumpkin spice latte.  

It had to be done...

Trying to find jewelry to wear was starting to become a daily adventure.  I knew something had to be done... here is proof 

So, I set out to organize this mess back to something I wouldn't be embarrassed about but also something I could actually choose pieces to wear on a daily basis from. 

For me, organizing like this always starts in the same way - take everything out, sort it, put it back in a much prettier, more organized manner.  Here is what it looked like as I got started

here is everything out&nbsp;

here is everything out 

Then... here it is all spread out in one place so I can begin to sort (or be horrified whichever the case)

don't judge...

don't judge...

The sorting process works similarly to sorting your clothes.  I first removed any pieces that were broken beyond repair or not worth the cost to repair.  I then sorted out any pieces that don't fit my lifestyle/my style anymore.  Lastly, I took out pieces I just don't wear anymore.  The pieces worth saving but not keeping I took away and photographed later for selling.  What I was left with I organized in a way that made sense to me and my closet.  Then, using the same spaces it was removed from, I returned all the beauties back to the closet but in a much prettier fashion.  No really... see for yourself

WHAT? &nbsp;So much better, right? 

WHAT?  So much better, right?

 

Soooo much better!!  I didn't overthink the organization and I didn't spend a million dollars on containers either.  Most of the containers you see in the pictures were purchased at Marshalls ...the key is they weren't all purchased in the jewelry/accessory organization aisle.  (More on that in a minute).  If you look closely you will see some plastic bags as well as some cloth bags.  If you have sterling silver pieces they really should be kept in airtight bags or if have one- a fancy jewelry container that prevents  tarnishing like the one seen here http://www.qvc.com/Set-of-2-Silver-Safekeeper-In-Drawer-Jewelry-Boxes-by-Lori-Greiner.product. H164549.html?sc=H164549-SRCH&cm_sp=VIEWPOSITION-_-5-_-H164549&catentryImage=http://images.qvc.com/is/image/h/49/h164549.001?$uslarge$

A lot of my pieces have their own storage containers which I still use.  The red bags are Kenneth Jay Lane pieces from QVC, the cream boxes are from Pandora pieces, etc.  The trick to keeping your pretties in these given containers is you can't readily see what's inside.  Don't leave these pretties in the closet be sure to get them out and wear them.  

One of the great finds I picked up was from the kitchen aisle - it's an egg keeper by name, but I use it for my post/small earrings

Hard case that can easily have other things stacked on top of it

A look inside

A look inside

So, I mean I didn't solve any big world issues or social concerns but I did make a little space a little more pretty.  

Own your style :)  no one gets hurt :)  

A PSA from your spring/summer closet

Your closet wants you to know it's time to take care of some stuff.  Your favorite consignment store is no doubt making a last call for spring/summer merchandise for the year.  Most stores have a cut-off date for this merchandise no later than the last week in July (Obviously check with your favorite for their date).  Take a good look in your closet - anything in great condition that you didn't wear this year - consign it now!  This will not only make changing over seasons in your closet easier, but it will give you extra ca$h to spend for fall.  You know the pieces both your closet and I are talking about --- time to let go. 

Need help?  Contact me and let's spend some time on a closet restyle and get you ready for the next season ...which happens to be my fav  (but no one asked)

Camo Belly or Belly Camo - who cares? Just make it go away :)

I have read and heard a lot of chatter lately about that thing that creeps up on you from nowhere...just a little bit of trouble ...better known as just a little belly.  I am in the 50+ group now (barely) and it seems to have more of us in this range.  I love the line in the Sex and the City Movie where the girls are all gathered in Carrie's apartment for Charlotte's baby shower when they are chatting with Samantha.  They are talking about her relationship with Smith and her...growing paunch :).  Anyway, Carrie says what I think is most important - (paraphrase) "It doesn't matter how much you weigh, you are beautiful at any weight" but are you happy?  I would add...do you feel pretty?  Let's take a look at some quick summertime picks to hide your little belly so you can feel pretty. 

I put together a few pieces on a polyvore collection.

Below is the link so you can get the actual pieces and names and where to buy. 

http://www.polyvore.com/hide_belly/set?.mid=set_share&id=167938195

When thinking about summer pics to best disguise/cover/hide/camoflauge your belly here are some great tips that are illustrated through the choices I have above:

  1. When choosing a top go for one that is slightly flowy without giving you that maternity feel.  Even a shorter swing style top works if it covers the waistline.
  2. Choose a top that has interest in the shoulders and neckline to pull the interest up such as the printed halter I chose above.
  3. If choosing a t-shirt, choose a looser fit.  There are so many styles right now that have a flowy hem, uneven hem, pocket interest, etc. 
  4. A pretty flowy blouse with an empire waistband or tie (like the print I've shown) is a great choice.
  5. For bottoms choose a pant with a mid-rise waistline or above.  No low rise to expose a muffin top. 
  6. Choose a pant with a wider leg - this will balance out your mid-section.  I am crazy for gauchos and culottes this season and that is one reason.
  7. Choose pants with darting or seaming interest in the front to flatter. The gauchos in the lower left corner from Level 99 are an example of a great waistline, great seaming, and great pockets.  Winner !!  Winner  !!  - give me a pair in all colors :)
  8. The boyfriend cut jean or khaki is another great alternative

These are just some guidelines, of course.  Choose what makes you feel pretty.  Don't look at the number look at you and the fit and how it makes you feel.  When you truly own your style you rock any outfit!! 

It Starts Underneath

Sometimes I think the most important part of your wardrobe can get neglected.  Your style really begins underneath...your outfit.  Your style starts at your undergarments.  Proper fitting undergarments can make or break your outfit and therefore, Your Style  

Recently, I had the opportunity to host a great event at our local Soma store.  The event was called a "Get Gorgeous Party".  Soma stores across the country offer this event to anyone who is interested in hosting.  You choose a day and time, invite some friends, and shop for great foundation pieces.  As long as 4 or more people purchase everyone who attends and purchases anything at the event will receive 15% off everything they purchase.  I invited some friends and clients, brought some sparkling water for refreshments and we had a blast!

Whenever I work with a client on any project I always take the opportunity to talk about foundation garments and how important they are.  I believe if you have the right fit, wear the bra best for you (as well as proper panties/bottoms) you not only feel pretty to start, but you look better on the outside of your clothes as well.  Getting a proper fit on a bra is more important than the fit of the garment on top...I'm not even kidding.  Along with the fit is the idea of pretty.  Let's face it, if you are wearing pretty undergarments you feel pretty...come on you know I am right.  I think you have to spend some money on your undergarments.  You wear them everyday and they "set up" how your wardrobe will look on your body.  You've all seen the woman in the great form fitting dress but then you see either "her cups runneth over" or you can see the band of her bra in the back, or some other sad story.  I think having the proper fitting (and subsequently the proper size bra) not only eliminates a sad fashion story but just really makes the dress fit that much better.  The same is true for the panty/underwear/bottom (whatever words you like saying).  Not long ago I had the unfortunate viewing of what was otherwise an adorable outfit on an adorable woman...only problem was the skirt was sheer and I all I could see was her thong....argh.  Proper undergarments with sheer garments people!!  

I think you have to find the store, company you are most comfortable with and then get a good fitting.  Even if you have been fitted before, if it's been more than a year I would say do it again.  I am not a paid spokesperson for Soma, but I have to say they are one of my faves and here's why:

1)  great customer service and all the associates I have come in contact with know how to fit any size woman correctly

2)  selection - the stores carry a great selection of styles, fits, patterns/colors.  Better still - their size selection is vast both in store and online.

3)  Pricing and quality - for the price the quality is outstanding - the pieces wear well and when washed properly, last a long time.

4)  Made for the modern woman- this is not your mom's old bra.  This is also not the teenager's bra store.  The styles are sophisticated and all grown up.  

5)  They also carry great sleepwear, loungewear, other foundation pieces, and even some dresses all with the modern woman in mind.  This includes sleepwear with "cool" material, as in ease of heat :).

Regardless of where you go I have created a great list for you that I will post below.

  1. Bras- skintone and black
  2. Multi-wear bra (halter, strapless, etc.)
  3. Slip (1/2 and/or full)
  4. Panties (with invisible panty line)
  5. Sleepwear  

Before you spend a fortune on your wardrobe start underneath.  If you have pretty, great fitting undergarments you already feel pretty before you ever step in to your closet to get dressed, and really that's what it's all about...the pretty.  If you feel pretty you will Own your style.  

Quick Weekend Away

You've been invited for a quick weekend away...what to pack?? 

I pack with  a common color combination running through so it's easier to mix and match your pieces. In this set, there are some great neutral bottoms along with one printed top and of course the maxi is a print.   The print and versatility of the maxi dress are perfect for both Friday night dinner out and Sunday brunch.  Pack either a jean jacket or neutral color cardigan (not both if you are packing light) for cooler evenings or cooler restaurants.  The color of the cardigan and the jean jacket make either piece totally wearable with the entire ensemble.  The drawstring linen pants are a great summer alternative to shorts or capris (if those aren't your thing) because they are cool and comfortable.  I added a couple of versatile t-shirts to mix and match to make different outfits with the linen pants.  By adding either the statement necklace or the scarf you "dress up" the outfit a bit.

For accessories and footwear keep it simple.  Pack one statement necklace that you know will also add a pop of color.  Add a simple necklace, some bangles for layering, some stud earrings and perhaps one statement earring to complete your jewelry wardrobe.  This gives you a ton of versatility for all the clothing you have packed.  For shoes, again, keep it simple.  The shoes I chose are from a brand (Kork-Ease) that makes super cute shoes but they are super light and comfortable. 

A few more ideas for this set:

Pair the linen pants, t-shirt, sneakers for a casual afternoon.  Run back to the hotel add the statement necklace, change to the wedge shoes and you have a great dinner outfit. 

It's cooler than you thought- the cropped denim, printed top, cardigan, wedges make a great evening out ensemble.

Sunny outdoor concert? Pair the denim with the sleeveless top and wedges .

Dinner on the patio of a slightly dressier restaurant?  Maxi dress, statement necklace, wedges and layer with the jacket or cardigan (whichever you packed).

Antiquing (is that a word?) on Sunday afternoon?  Linen pants, t-shirt, and definitely  the sneakers. ( You could add the scarf to this easily for another look)

Here is a link to the actual polyvore board if you would like a closer, more detailed look  http://www.polyvore.com/quick_weekend_away/set?.mid=set_share&id=164897007

I love the idea of all this fitting in a small suitcase or duffle yet it gets me through the entire weekend perfectly.  Now, for somewhere to go...

 

 

Personal Style Win

 

Whew!!  We have made it through my son's high school graduation, graduation open house, and college orientation!  Now, on to some talk about one of my new faves I purchased for this year. 

So, I first saw these pants in an ad in early spring in a fashion magazine and fell in love with them. 

here is the ad... culottes!! 

here is the ad... culottes!!

 

I have made no secrets that for me, one of my favorite denim brands is Kut from the Kloth.  The fit is the best fit for my body type (smaller waist, fuller hips and thighs), they are trend right, and affordable.  The quality is great - they wash well and maintain their color and fit over time.  It was a total win win for these beauties to also be one of my favorite brands.  I had never ordered directly from their website before but I had to have the pants so that's what I did.  I ordered two sizes to be safe and patiently waited on their arrival.  Argh...they were backordered!  So, when I finally received them I loved them but they were too long (or I am 5'4").  I have a friend who is a very talented seamstress and she took care of that for me! When you look at the pic of the pants you will see - this was tricky- the pants are fringed!  I have worn the pants several times both dressy casual and totally casual.  I pair them with a basic tee shirt and casual tennis shoes or dress them up with a flouncy blouse and my favorite espadrilles. 

Here is the funny part.  I read a lot of fashion magazines, blogs, articles.  I watch a lot of fashion "things" on the internet and tv.  Sometimes, I get frustrated though.  I see all these great pieces that I think I would love AND that would be great for my body type, lifestyle, etc.  Then, when I see the price tag I go crazy.  I love the dress, the pants, the sweaters, (whatever) but even if I had an unlimited bank account I wouldn't spend the amount of money they are suggesting I pay.  So imagine my surprise when I see a great pair of pants that are so similar to my new faves only their price tag is over $900! 

Beautiful Valentino Culottes 

Beautiful Valentino Culottes

 

Yes, I know about the cycle of fashion and how trends start and all of that.  But I love it when my theory of owning your own style shows up like this.  I saw them and I bought them because I loved them and I knew they would be "right" for me, not because they were of a certain designer name or trend.