Success

"Success is not easy and it is certainly not for the lazy." - Sam Saifer

Mad About Metallics

Mad About Metallics

What better time of year to sport your most favorite metallics than during the holiday season!?  Am I right or am I right?  It's time to bust out your glitter tops, your most blinging bangles-- refresh your ensemble and try something new! Be fearless. Remember: it's okay to mix your metallics!  Think big, think bold.  Whatever you do, don't leave the house without a touch of metallic in your holiday wardrobe.  

'Tis the season to be... all dolled up!

One: metallic coated skinnies
Two: sequin clutch
Three: feathered crystal earrings
Four: gold and crystal cube cuff
Five: black and gold tipped pumps

What is your favorite way to incorporate metallics into your wardrobe?

The Midi

Get out your razor, there's still time to show off those gorgeous gams this winter! What I'm talking about is the midi skirt. Midi = mid length. I'm loving the classic silhouette of this length, don't you? It is very 50s, young Audrey Hepburn; sophisticated and chic. Vogue even claimed it the new hemline for Spring 2014.  

So, go simple on top and let the hemline do all the talking. Dig around for a clutch that will make a statement and throw on a pair of  understated black pumps.  It is critical that the midi hemline be paired with a heel (sorry, you've got to leave your flats at home!). Go easy on the jewelry unless you intend to really glam things up.  I would suggest some crystal drop earrings.

All of the above styles can be found at ASOS. All of which, by the way, are under $100/each.

From L // R

Sequin midi skirt

Leather midi skirt

Lace maxi skirt

What are your thoughts on this midi-length skirt? Please, share your thoughts.

Let's Misbehave

Via

It's Thursday and time to have some fun and maybe even misbehave a bit.  The weekend is upon us, do you have any plans?

Here's a few ideas to get the weekend activity wheels turning:

1. Test run that pumpkin pie recipe for Thanksgiving. Hey, you can never have enough pie, right!?  Perfection takes practice, by golly!

2. Buy some metallic nail polish and paint those pretty nails of yours

3. Find yourself at a local used bookstore and splurge on a few paperbacks. There is nothing better than getting lost in a literary adventure from the comfort of your own home.

4. Take out your planner, call an old friend and get crackin' on your holiday social calendar; the season will come and go sooner than you know it--make sure you spend it with those you cherish most. 

5. Do something outside; fresh air is never a bad thing.

6. On another note, if you haven't seen the newest major motion picture of The Great Gatsby by Baz Luhrman, you really ought to.  *This is in reference to the picture above, a scene from the movie.

Wherever your weekend takes you, I hope you find a way to misbehave a bit before the week starts all over, again…

Tortoise: Making a Statement!

I’ve always been a fan of tortoise.  How about you?  There is something classic about it that just draws me in. Personally, I would pair the oversized bracelet with either the earrings or the statement necklace—but never all three pieces together!  I could see the tortoise paired with an LBD and some sassy heels or more buttoned up with a blazer at the office. As for the rhinestones, they're just fun.  I can’t resist!

These styles are on sale at ILY Couture—but only for a limited time!  Click here to purchase now.

A Way to Start Your Day

All hail early risers... (or wannabes)!  You know what they say, “the early bird gets the worm,” so, why not make the best of your day and get up early with the other movers and shakers?  I’m sure you’ve heard the countless studies linking early risers to health and success—so, why argue statistics?  Just roll with it!  There are never enough hours in the day but if you start early, you find the ability to accomplish more than you've ever known!

Okay, off my soap box.  I get up around 6am every workday, whether I feel like it or not.  Luckily, my boyfriend rises at just about the time (if not earlier), so there is some motivation to get up and get moving.  I make myself a piping hot cup of coffee, knock off small chores around house… relax on the couch, admire the awakening city skyline and bust out my laptop for a good read.  I always look forward to my morning reading routine.  Without coffee, none of this would happen before 8am, I ensure you.

I read all sorts of material: fashion blogs, trending news, career oriented articles, industry/trade publications … pretty much anything that will capture my attention early in the morning (it really varies day to day)!  

Just this week, I signed up for theSkimm, after reading a write-up about the company in Fast Company.  TheSkimm delivers news to your email inbox every morning condensing major headlines into a manageable one-page brief.   TheSkimm entered the marketplace aiming to create a better news experience for busy professionals, particularly millennial women.  I guess I fit that demo!

Note: theSkimm isn’t for all.  Some might even find the one-page daily news feed non-educational, lacking of substance or even just downright “unprofessional”.  I admit the tone of the content is written in non-formal, millennial-speak; but, I love the creativity and voice of the editorial.  TheSkimm is exactly what they proclaim: they do the reading (across subject and party lines) and break the news down with fresh editorial content.  It’s kind of like having your best friend fill you in on current events over coffee.

Save those extra zzz’s for the weekend.  Get up early and subscribe to theSkimm! 

Quit Slackin'

Image Source

The Flounce Skirt

Image source

When talking skirts, there are many styles which come to mind: a-line, mid length, pencil, peplum, maxi, pleated, bubble...etc. Add one to the list!  

The flounce skirt is a perfect blend of flirtatious and buttoned up all at the same time.  This skirt is a great transition piece from work wear to out on the town, or even a special event! 

The best part about replicating this look is playing around with the perfect graphic tee.  Want a super casual look?  Wear a kitty on your chest!  Looking to wear to the office?  A plain colored black, white or grey tee will do the trick.  This look is professional with a laid-back casual kick.

My guess is that the flounce skirt will only grow in popularity and would be a great investment piece for essentially any occasion!  

Ann Taylor has hit the mark with the flounce skirt.  Which look do you love most?

From // L to R //

Tweed, $85
Jacquard; $70
Graphic $85

Quintessentially Plaid

Here's a few of my favorite plaid pieces at the moment:

1. Target Merona Plaid Blazer; $35

2. Burberry Brit Perfume; $64

3. Old Navy Plaid Scarf; $17

4. JCrew Factory Classic Button Down Shirt; $45

Plaid is hot on the scene right now and I loving every second of it.  Plaid is equal parts prep and punk and I am blown away by its versatility.

Months ago, this pattern could have been coined “dowdy or stuffy” or “something found only in your grandma’s closet”... not the current banter of… “this is so chic, gotta have it!”  

Plaid is easy enough to wear as an accessory (think: scarf, iPhone case, etc.) or you can go all out with a bold jacket or pant. 

I would start with a scarf and build out from there.  A scarf is a low-cost option for testing the trend without having to spend an arm and a leg.  My advice when picking out plaid: think Burberry, think London, think uber-classic and uber-chic.  Perhaps try to stay away from colors other than the originals: red, navy, hunter green, beige, black.. etc. (you get the picture!)--the point is to keep this look classic.

What are your thoughts?  Are you amped for plaid this season or do you think the pattern should remain in granny's closet?

Leopard is a neutral.

Okay, yep!  I agree.

Jessica Alba: Serious Style Envy

Let's get this straight, Jessica Alba is no novice in the fashion world.  She's got an incredible sense of style and has a body to kill.  The reason I love this look so much is her play on texture and pattern.  The rouge lip and sassy leopard print bag seal the deal on this casual yet chic ensemble.  You, too, can recreate this look with minimal effort.  Better yet, you may already have some of these essentials stowed away in your closet!

This is what you'll need:
1. A leopard/animal print over-sized clutch
2. A soft, plaid button down shirt (long or short sleeve)
3. A pair of high-waisted, dark wash denim skinny jeans
4. A tube of luxurious mauve lip rouge
5. A studded black or polka dot black belt
6. A pair of gem colored pointed toe pumps

Throw your hair up in a fuss-free bun and... your done!

What do you love most about this look?

Military Chic: Camo on the Streets!

I adore the military camo jacket, don't you?  Its just a perfect jacket for fall weather.

Here's a few of my favorite styling techniques:
one: Mixing patterns - camo, plaid and leopard
two: Casual approach w/ flats
three: Rough & tough - camo w/ leather
four: Neon accent for some cool flair

I love this fun, laid-back utilitarian style.  Perfect for the weekend, after hours, drinks with friends or running errands. There seems to be a whole variety of different styles of camo jackets available in stores right now but I think my favorite style is one that hits just below the mid-thigh area. I recommend looking for a jacket that allows for some cinching around the waist to appear more structured; unless you love the tomboy/boyfriend slouchy look (which is totally cool, too)!  I would, however, avoid any cropped-jacket styles just to remain on-trend.

These three styles are to die for (all priced under $150):
JCPenney, BCBGeneration, Anthropologie

Are you ready to mix some military chic into your fall wardrobe?

Take Time

Read a book.  Call an old friend.  Go thrifting.  Make a craft.  Visit a pumpkin patch.  Light a candle.  Take a walk with no direction in mind.  Bake some tasty confections.  Listen to your most favorite music.  Paint a picture.  Dance.  Brew some tea.  Paint your nails.  Rearrange your furniture.  Buy a new pair of boots for the season.

Whatever you do, make your soul happy this weekend!  

There is no better time than now.

Simple as this: Jeans & a White Tee

What is more chic than a pair of jeans & a white tee?  Tough question.  I absolutely love this look.  This styling technique gives you a chance to forgo statement accessories and go back to the basics.

Why?

Throw on a pair of heels and you are prepped for hitting the town in style.  Throw on a blazer or your favorite jacket of the season and you quickly look polished with minimal effort.  Grab a colorful or embellished clutch and you're out the door.  Done, done... done.

And, let's be honest here, who doesn't own a pair of jeans and a white shirt?  I think a button down oxford shirt or a classic white t-shirt look equally as phenomenal.  I have no preference between the two.  This look is the complete opposite of fussy--so don't try too hard, just keep it simple!  

Last topic of discussion, do you follow the "no white after Labor Day" rule or do you throw that rule out the window and wear what you please?  I feel slightly conflicted by said "rule"; however, I believe the choice is up to you.  If you feel confident in wearing lighter colors in the fall/winter--go right on ahead!  It's personal choice.  Chances are, I'll probably be wearing white, too.

Above; from L to R
1.  Some fresh French flair
2.  Paris Fashion Week Spring '14 - Street Style
3.  Olivia Palermo

Be Gracious

Be gracious.  Be thoughtful.  Be kind. 

J.Crew Spring 2014 Collection

Read full article here at GlitterGuide

Alright, I know what you're thinking.  Does Rachel get paid to write about J.Crew and J.Crew exclusively... because... she doesn't write about anything else?  No, I am not getting paid for my J.Crew praise but I simply can't help myself!  Some other day I'll write about other topics.  But today, the topic of discussion is the J.Crew Spring 2014 line which debuted last week at NYFW.

I'm seeing some common themes: juxtaposition between fancy flair and comfy casual.  Yes, this is not a new fashion concept but J.Crew has the look down so well it hurts.  I love the harmony between the soft lines in the cotton fabrics coupled with the crisp look of the structured/textured garments. I'm noticing floods of blue, blue and more blue. Oh ...and a splash of coral?  Chunky, flashy and over the top gem stone earrings are still on the books and let's not forget about a fierce and fem heel.

What do you love most about this collection?

J.Crew: the Etta

What is more gorgeous than statement jewelry?  A statement shoe, of course!  I am in awe of the Etta collection available now at J.Crew.  The Etta pump stuns with a mix of luxurious patterns and luscious texture.  I can't get enough.  Styles retail exclusively at JCrew.com from $150 to $375.  

Make Beautiful Things

Saul Bass

"I want to make beautiful things, even if nobody cares" -- Saul Bass

This is my philosophy, through and through.  Don't lose sight of your true passion and ambition.  Make beautiful things, even if just for your own personal satisfaction!

Trouser Style Jeans: In or Out?

L   //   R

What is your attitude toward a trouser style jean?  Yay or nay?  I own a couple of pairs of trouser style jeans (which I love!) but haven't worn much recently.  They've sadly fallen by the wayside to my skinny jeans.  Question being, are trouser style/wide leg jeans in or out of style?  I really love both outfits pictured above and have a hard time ruling out the style all in all.

What are your thoughts?  I'm thinking... in.

Here are a couple of styles to consider.  As always: the darker the hue the better, the less embellishment, the better:

1.  7 for All Mankind - Georgia High Waist Flare
2. David Kahn - Wide Leg Stretch Trouser (I own these)

Color Inspiration: Yellow

How cheerful is the color yellow, anyway?  I am feeling inspired.  How about you?  Oh, and I'll take two of those Prada bags pictured above.

Here's to sunshine and happiness my friends.  

From L to R // T to B:
Art // Emily Rickard
Wisdom // Walt Whitman
Flowers // Sunflowers
Dress // Lisa Perry
Earrings // Elizabeth Cole
Bag // Prada

xo

DIY: Wall Art

Feeling inspired by these looks?  Me too!  Check out these fun wall decor ideas that will add pizzazz to your walls without paying a fortune.  

1.  I am dying to try this modern mosaic paint on canvas; but, I think I'd modify by using a narrower strip of tape (or, use a variety of different tape widths to create less white space).  Buy a blank canvas at a craft or art supply store.  Buy acrylic paints, a paint brush and painters tape (or scotch tape).  Glitter and Modge Podge is optional but always encouraged.  So simple, you could even have kids join in on the fun (if applicable!).

2.  How easy is this?  Seriously.  Search "silhouettes" in Google and your possibilities for creativity are endless.  Depending on the theme or look you're going for, there is a "silhouette" for everything!  Print images on regular white computer paper.  Pick out some simple frames at a craft, home or department store and hang as a collection!

3.  Again, could this DIY craft get any simpler?  All you need to do is purchase some pre-carved ceiling rosettes (find at your local home improvement store) from $8 to $20 dollars each.  Next, paint the ceiling medallions in graduated shades of a single paint color of your choice.  The medallions are light-weight and easy to hang.  This hanging display covers a lot of surface area and packs a lot of bang for your buck!

Now... if only I could add a few hundred square feet to my apartment to follow through on these fun decorating ideas!

Ciao! 

Adventuring

The Progressive Pearl

I hope you've been able to do a little "adventuring" this fine summer season. Let's appreciate the precious days of summer before fall is at our doorstep!

Bejeweled

How cute are these necklaces from Molly Suzanne Jewelry?  Fabulous looking jewelry at an affordable price--you've got me sold.  The sale prices will drop your jaw, consider yourself warned and have a little fun browsing this fun site!

Pictured above are a few of my favorites, which one is your favorite?  Hard to choose.  

MAGGIE NECKLACE - WHITE $25

THE TAYLOR NECKLACE $30

BRIGHT LIGHTS NECKLACE - YELLOW $21

Zara

Seattlites prepare for impact: Zara is to open at Westlake Center by the end of the year, and hopefully before the holiday season! Leave it to SeattleMet to update us with the latest and greatest, the news has been confirmed--Zara will open before the end of the year and the store will include fashions for men, women and children. Zara's styles are chic, contemporary, fashionable and affordable. Think: a few levels up from H&M (described as a "Spanish fast-fashion line").

On top of their generally affordable prices, they also have revolving sales (semi-annuals, end of season, etc.) that make for some outrageous deals. Wait, have I mentioned they have e-commerce opps on their website? Oh dear heavens.  So, shopping in your pajamas, on your couch, in your living room, is also very acceptable.  So do it!

In anticipation of the grand store opening, I have been doing some shameless (slightly obsessive) browsing of the Zara website.  I can't get over their selection of fun and funky blazers and trousers--not to mention their handbags.  Wowzers.  

Here's a few of my favorites:

1. Polka dot blouse

2. Printed trouser

3. Basic wide-striped sweater

4. Statement pinstripe blazer

5. Tribal print Fall jacket

DIY Mock Gel Manicure

Visit me on Pinterest

You are just 1-2-3 steps away from a mock gel manicure at home.  All you need is three nail polishes (pictured above) and whatever other grooming tools you use when performing at-home nail care (I typically don't use anything more than nail clippers and a nail file).  Note: you do NOT need a UV light for this "mock" gel manicure.  I think you'll be blown away by the look and longevity of this nail trio.

Here's the secret sauce:
STEP 1 - Do whatever you do to prime your nails normally (take off existing nail polish, cut nails, file nails, etc.)
STEP 2 - Apply 1 coat of Sally Hansen Hard As Nails Hard As Wraps
STEP 3 - Apply 2 coats of any nail polish of your choosing (my fav is OPI)
STEP 4 - Apply 2 coats of Seche Vite Dry Fast Top Nail Coat (seriously, this stuff is no joke)
STEP 5 - Avoid messing up your nails during drying time; but, the top coat seems to dry unusually fast, so consider yourself lucky!

Voila!  Your polish will turn out shiny, flawless, thick and gorgeous--I promise you.

Pictured: this is actually a "touch up" job I did from 2 weeks prior.  It still looks pretty good, huh?

H&M Roll Call

Find me on Pinterest

Fall is at our back door (dear God, say it isn't so!) and these new H&M pieces will help you transition from summer to fall with ease.  Plus, who can possibly say no to screen-printed kitties on a tank top?  What do you think of this summer to fall line-up?  I think it's pretty fab!  

The list:
1. A funky, statement blazer
2. Some vintage inspired sunnies
3. Rock-solid studs
4. Sexy, metallic sandals
5. A tank packing some major sass
6. A gold, under-stated bracelet
7. A utilitarian and roomy bag
8. Distressed boyfriend blue jeans

What's better?  All items shown above are less than $40 dollars a piece!  Visit an H&M store location near you to pick up these super cute essentials online with H&M's new e-commerce capabilities!  Amazing...

Don't Sweat the Small Stuff

Don't Sweat the Small Stuff

A Fresh Home Accessory

Pike Place Market Sketch and Peonies

What is a more beautiful home accessory than a fresh bouquet of flowers?  

One of my favorite flower variety is the peony and they just so happen to be in season right now in the Pacific NW!  Last weekend I walked down to the Pike Place Market in Seattle and picked up a very gorgeous mixed variety bouquet for under $10 dollars.  The assortment of fresh flowers at the Pike Place Market will never cease to amaze me, no matter the season!

Last night on an evening walk with my dog I passed by a Trader Joe’s and they had fresh bouquets of peonies for only $7 dollars.  Depending on where you live, the peonies may have already hit peak season but here in the Pacific NW they appear to be widely available.  You have my permission, indulge!

Sensible Summer Reading

Don't forget to pack your sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat and an ice cold drink!

1.  The Secret Life of Bees;  Sue Monk Kidd from $5 on Amazon.com

2.  The Glass Castle; Jeannette Walls from $10 on Amazon.com

3.  The Paris Wife; Paula McLain from $9 on Amazon.com

4.  Half Broke Horses; Jeannette Walls from $13 on Amazon.com

5.  The Great Gatsby; F. Scott Fitzgerald from $7 on Amazon.com

Be A Beginner

"Allow yourself to be a beginner.  No one starts off being excellent."

A Little Slice of Heaven

Question: Definition of heaven on Earth?  

Answer: J.Crew Factory online

Below is a good representation of what I'm going ga-ga over at the moment. Granted, space is limited so these are just a few of my favorites.

Also, why just browse when you can get 30% off using the code "SPREE" at checkout.  Hurry fast!  Promo ends soon.

1.  FACTORY RIPSTOP UTILITY JACKET; $98
2. STRAIGHT AND NARROW JEAN; $74.50
3. FACTORY NEON CRYSTAL FAN NECKLACE; $44.50
4. FACTORY PRINTED TEAGAN RUFFLE POPOVER; $64.50
5. FACTORY PRINTED PHONE CASE FOR IPHONE 5; $14.50
6. FACTORY VERO CLUTCH; $68
7. FACTORY EMERY FLATS; $68

[Emerald] Green with Envy

The announcement last month of Pantone’s 2013 color of the year made me very happy.  What’s the color, you ask?  Emerald green. 

Emerald green is rich, powerful and incredibly elegant.  Whether you are incorporating the color into your home or adding a fun pop of color to your existing wardrobe; emerald green does not fall short of absolutely stunning!

Let me share with you a few gems that I've scoped out via Pinterest that I am green with envy of.  Ha. Ha.

1. A great statement jacket

2. Adding charm to a dinner party
3. A splash of color on your arm
4. A beautiful pair of earrings
5. Some studded-out kicks
6. A little bit of romance

A Positive Perspective

Find me on Pinterest!

Everyday Fashion for the New Year

Well, the New Year's hoopla has come and gone and I’m just starting to detox from my sugar-coma over the holidays.  The New Year can be a very exciting time: a time for improvement, personal reflection and goal setting.  For me, one thing remains the same with the turn of the New Year; my unrelenting love and enthusiasm for a kick-ass fashion blog.  With that being said, I wanted to highlight and personally introduce you to one my favorite fashion blogs/bloggers.

Who? J’s EverydayFashion

What is J’s appeal?  J boasts on her website that she is not “an authority on fashion” and that she is “just an average girl”, her motto being “if I can do it, you can do it, too!”  She states her sense of style is completely self-taught.  J’s background is in communications and corporate marketing and she capitalized on her blogging business after being laid off a job in 2010.  J considers herself to be a type-A and non-creative sort; however, she is a classical painter in her spare time.  A jack of all trades!

What sets J’s Everyday Fashion apart from the endless fashion bloggers?  J’s blog is unique because her entry technique is quite simple.  She uses style inspiration from fashion bloggers, street style bloggers, advertisements, and celebrities.  J essentially re-creates the look using her own wardrobe (coupled with other sponsored items) and she admits she’s a bargain hound.  Bonus: J almost always posts exactly what she is wearing and the origin which it came from (i.e. brand, price, location bought) and sometimes she even posts a direct link where to find the identical or similar item (point, click, buy concept—I totally love).

How often does J post entries?  J’s Everyday Fashion delivers new looks, every day.  I always look forward to her interpretation of a super trendy style. I follower her page on Facebook and I’m delightfully fed new styles every day.  J is committed to serving her loyal fans and her content is always fun, fresh with an emphasis on being thrifty.

J’s Everyday Fashion isn't a high-fashion, couture blog with a bunch of bells and whistles.  J showcases fashionable street wear on a budget and I love her willingness to be creative and try something new.

Jump on the J’s Everyday Fashion bandwagon and have some fun creating new and exciting styles for the New Year!