The Flounce Skirt

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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

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?

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

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

[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

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!

Flash Bauble Sale

Check out these flashy buys:

1. BUBBLE NECKLACE on sale at The Poke A Dot Shop 

• Over 10 colors to choose from!
• Use promo code SUMMERFUN at checkout for major discount!  
• $20 (including shipping)
• Take into consideration 10-21 day lead shipping time

2. VARIOUS STYLES on sale at Stella & Dot

• 2 day sale!
• "Like" Stella & Dot on Facebook 
• 60% off Garbo Link Bracelet: $31.60 http://bit.ly/NicBaM
• 50% off Tigris Earrings: $29.50 http://bit.ly/OOw9DE
• 40% off Alexandria Necklace: $53.40 http://bit.ly/xKO1II

Get your baubles before they're gone!

7 Fall Finds Under $100

I am just ecstatic about this concept board.  Shall I dare discuss Fall fashion yet? xo

1. Earrings   House of Harlow 1960 - Sunburst Button Earring   $30.00

2. Blazer   Ark & Co. - Pop Blazer   $59.00

3. Ring   Sabine - Faceted Statement Ring   $24.00

4. Blouse   Collective Concepts - Color Block Blouse   $69.00 

5. Jegging   Free People - Biker Babe Legging   $98.00

6. Bootie   Michael Antonio - Moxby   $59.00 

7. Cuff   Hive & Honey - Geometric Stretch Bracelet   $28.00 

Find all of these fabulous finds at Piperlime.com! 

Blonde + Ombre = Blombre

I don't think I need to do much explaining on the blonde ombre.  The look is trendy yet sensational and effortless.  What do you think about these blombre styles?  I think these are some of the best examples, yet!

Let's do some name dropping, shall we?  Can you recommend any hairstylists in your area that are pros at mastering the ombre look? 

Put the Clutch In

A vibrant clutch adds the perfect amount of flair to any summer outfit.  Realistically, size does matter.  The BIGGER the better.  Don't be afraid to make a serious statement when selecting this must-have summer accessory.  Dare to be bold and invest in an over-sized, envelope-style; neon, floral or sparkly metallic clutch.  Tis the season to strut your stuff; why not carry an attention-grabbing clutch while you're at it?

Shades of Gray

Shower Curtain

Bathroom Concept

No, I am not talking about my mood or the popular book series.  But, rather my obsession with the color gray in regards to home décor. 

Recently, I've been adoring (most) shades of gray in a major way; especially when showcased in the home!  Gray is obviously a neutral color but don’t mistake gray as being boring or drab.  I believe the color to be super chic when paired with crisp classic white or other subtle neutrals such as beige or other neutral pastel colors. 

Gray can also stand as the perfect back splash for accent colors such as: canary yellow, ocean blue or an electrifying magenta.  While the color gray may ordinarily be perceived as uninteresting; quite the opposite is true if executed properly.  Meaning, you can leverage the color to be as dramatic or simplistic as you are comfortable going with.

To me, the color gray creates an atmosphere of both peace and tranquility (both attributes I value within a dwelling space).  The deeper the shade, the more dramatic (obviously) your space will feel.  Is your abode in need of some trendy, yet timeless flair? 

Try a shade of gray.

A Tale of Two Necklaces

 

Two great statement necklaces—with a click of a button!  After living in Flagstaff for some time, I’ve become somewhat familiar with online shopping.  Both these necklaces are standout pieces that can bought online.  Also, want to know a dirty little secret?  These styles are “knock offs” of large retail store offerings.  Think: Anthropologie and J. Crew's finest.  I will explain in specifics below.  So, take the guesswork out of shopping and simply point, click and wear! 

(One)

Inspiration: Anthropologie “Stormy Seas Necklace” 

(One) Stormy Seas Necklace

The scoop: The original “Stormy Seas Necklace” sold retail, at Anthropologie, somewhere around $100 to $250 depending on how elaborate the beadwork, etc.  Contrary to the necklaces’ popularity, it is my understanding that Anthropologie is no longer selling this necklace!  The good news: there are countless private jewelers/dealers (think Etsy, EBay, Amazon) that sell their own “knock offs” of the iconic necklace. 

Where to buy: I would recommend buying from an Etsy dealer, Fresh Eclectic Ornaments, for the most comprehensive selection of styles and affordable price.  You can even custom order your necklace from scratch!  However, doing a general search in Google Shopping for “Anthropologie Stormy Seas Necklace” will see an abundance of options! 

Additional Commentary: My only major suggestion would be to consider selecting a style with a jersey chain.  The amount of beadwork makes the necklace awfully heavy and it is comforting to have soft material lay on the back of your neck, as opposed to a metal chain.  The other fancy feature about a jersey chain is that you can tie the necklace to various lengths depending on the neckline of your shirt, etc.

(Two)

Inspiration: JCrew“Bubble Necklace”

(Two) Bubble Neckla

The scoop: This necklace has been posted all over Pinterest and I have also seen it in the JCrew store retailing for a pretty $150.  Can you find it cheaper?  You betcha!  At around $20 or less, you can absolutely purchase this necklace.

Where to buy:  If you are on a budget, I would recommend buying the “Bubble Necklace” on EBay.  However, if you are comfortable dropping $150 on the authentic necklace, I would recommend buying direct from JCrew.  Remember: when purchasing from EBay, you are probably either buying a knock-off or a factory item.  On the EBay site, simply search “JCrewNecklace” and you will see many hits.  If you’d prefer to forgo the bidding process, you can easily purchase within the “Buy Now” section. A fun necklace at an achingly affordable price? Perfection!

Additional commentary:   Again, if you are buying the “Bubble Necklace from EBay it is most likely coming from a distributor/dealer/factory owner in China.  So, do not anticipate receiving the necklace overnight.  You should prepare for the necklace to arrive no sooner than two weeks after your payment goes through, as it is being shipped from China.  I know friends who have bought through these dealers and they had complete success.  Remember, patience is a virtue!

Purr-fect Pumps!

Animal print, like floral and stripes, seem to have completely overwhelmed my closet.  Whether it be a sassy cheetah, leopard or zebra print—or even a subdued snakeskin—animal-inspired prints have drawn my attention, season after season. 

Meaning, yes, I am not afraid to wear animal print—even in the dead of winter!  In fact, this winter, I recall being stuck in a situation in front of my closet trying to pick out an outfit which did not include some kind of animal print... quite the dilemma, right?  

While I think animal print clothing is fabulous, my recent obsession has been animal print footwear (i.e. leopard pumps).  I get giddy just thinking of all the styling possibilities associated with throwing on a purr-fect pump (I had to do it!).

Sorry for being a tease, these Madewell pumps have been so popular, they sold out completely.  But good God, aren't they gorgeous?

I may be too radical in my theory but consider this: animal print is really just another neutral.  So have fun with the exquisite textures and playful prints and don’t be afraid to take a walk on the wild side!

Holey Moley

Ripped Jeans, GlitterGirl

Many may say, “why in the world would you buy a pair of jeans with holes in them?!” My answer to you: fashion, duh!  How to wear ripped jeans with a little class?  Boyfriend style!   

The boyfriend style jean is a relaxed-fit jean that flatters most if the pant fits correctly.  You will want to make sure that the jean is snug enough around the waist, toosh and thigh to ensure that you don’t create a saggy-baggy-booty.  However, pay special attention that the jean doesn’t fit too tight—you want to appear relaxed!  You may also want to consider a boyfriend jean with a higher-rise; a higher rise jean is generally more flattering, anyway.  As color goes, you can get pretty creative with this.  I like both darker-hued blue jeans as well as light distressed blue jeans. 

Remember, the point of this style is to be relaxed; hence the tattered look.  However, make sure you don’t have gaping holes in (suspicious) places and pay special attention to making the outfit appear feminine.  A simple way to make ripped boyfriend jeans appear feminine is to pair with floral, pastel or stripes on top.  A flowy, long-sleeve blouse would be a complimentary option, too.   

Add a blazer and you are ready for weather elements.  Accessorize up or down but make sure you are wearing some fabulous footwear.  I would suggest a bootie or pump over a wedge—or flats if you feel most comfortable doing so.   

Remember, wearing ripped jeans shouldn’t be for the workplace but rather for social outings such as lunch with girlfriends, a day outing in public, a coffee date or running errands. However, if your work allows you to show up to work with holes in your jeans—more power to ya!

Before you “trash” this style, see if it is a style that works for you!  You may have just found a fancy substitute for your go-to weekend yoga pants. . .

Taxi, please!

Image Source

Now here’s a bright idea.  Employ the help of taxi drivers to identify and dispatch police support if criminal or suspicious activity is witnessed in and around the community.  The program is called Taxis on Patrol and has launched in the Denver Metropolitan area.  Local taxi drivers can volunteer to participate in this program which trains and certifies them on what suspicious behavior to look for and when it is appropriate to report.

A week into the programs inception, a Denver taxi driver assisted in the arrest of a suspect in a fatal hit-and-run.  Taxi drivers enrolled in the program, thus far, have reported assaults, domestic violence disputes, hit and runs, drunk driving incidents and other suspicious activity while on-duty.  Some taxi drivers enrolled in the program were initially skeptical displaying a sticker on the back of their vehicle reading, Taxis on Patrol, in fear they would be labeled a “snitch”.  Most take pride in the fact that they are providing a great civil service to their community and ignore ridicule. 

Kudos, Denver!  This is a brilliant concept.  I can’t honestly think of any reason why this program wouldn't work in any other community; so long as the taxi drivers weren't abusing their privileges.  But, should that even be considered an issue at all?

Programs similar to the Taxis on Patrol program have extended into international markets and could soon hit a city near you. 

Are you skeptical?  Do you see any underlying issues with these developing programs? 

Minty Fresh

Trend alert.

Mint, duh!  Big shock, huh?   

If you even have the slightest bit of a pulse you know the intensity of the mint trend.  Truthfully, it is hard to ignore the color’s popularity and it’s even harder not to fall absolutely in love with.  Who could resist the temptation of such a nostalgic hue?  I immediately think of mint chocolate chip ice cream and it is a color that makes me feel happy, refreshed and youthful!

Whether the color be as household decoration, painted on fingernails or hanging in the closet; my hope is that this trendy color will take some time and stay a while.  If you haven’t yet acknowledged or been made aware of this growing trend, all you need to do is search “mint” in Pinterest and you will be exponentially inspired.  From mint housewares to mint colored macaroons . . . it’s all there! I’m astonished by all of the creative ways the color is being used and I look forward to finding a fun opportunity to incorporate the color mint into my life!

What spring colors inspire you?

Tango Red: Calvin Klein Confession

Calvin Klein Jeans; $36

A fun and funky trend that will make springtime just that much more enjoyable this year—the ever-so-popular colored skinny jean craze.

In fact, after much debate and agony over what color to finally make a purchase (will it be mint, fuchsia, electric blue... tangerine), I selected a pair of Tango Red Calvin Klein skinny jeans.  If the color "Tango Red" doesn’t sell itself, I'm not sure what will.

Why did I choose the Calvin Klein Tango Red skinny jean? 

Fact: Calvin Klein makes a slamming skinny jean.  No exaggeration.  If I haven’t already confessed my eternal love for my current and first pair of Calvin Klein skinny jeans, I will right now.  I own the most fantastic pair of skinny jeans on the planet and I purchased them from Ross for $30.  Okay, I said it.  Best purchase of my life.  These jeans stand neck and neck with all the cupcakes and puppies in the world, combined. 

Benefits: Calvin Klein skinnies are figure flattering, they cover your rear, they keep their shape through-and-through and are the most versatile pant in my closet (alongside my 7 for All Mankind Ginger Jeans).  I wear my existing Calvin Klein skinnies at least two times a week and I make no excuse for the frequency they are worn. 

Rational: If I purchase the same style jean but in another color, I will be faced with no disappointment.  We’ll see!  I purchased these Tango Red’s from 6pm.com this afternoon and I can’t wait for their arrival.  Oh, did I also mention Calvin Klein jeans can usually always be found on sale and range from $30- $70 per pair, not too shabby, eh?

I am anticipating that these jeans will be too hot to handle and I'm ready to rock them with a little spicy attitude. 

Springtime, you will be my muse and Tango Red, I’m counting on you to deliver the goods!

Bootie

Kendi, rocking the nude bootie!

The bootie, oh the bootie!  The bootie is a shoe you can’t go wrong with.  It's a versatile, stylish and comfortable alternative to a pump or a knee-high boot. 

Here's some reason's why the bootie is simply the best:

1.  No need to fuss with knee-high boots if you sport thick calves or muscular legs. Go ahead and give your legs some breathing room while still sustaining the appearance of wearing a boot. 

2.  You can wear booties with trousers, bootleg or flair style jeans or pants; however, the skinny jean looks best.  Try rolling up the cuff of the jean to create a fun and fresh look!  Exposing ankle is sexy, right?

3.  Unlike flats, the booties traditionally have a modest to high-heel, most baring just a modest heel.  Anytime I can get away with wearing a heel, I will.  I am odd in the fact that I cannot stand flats and the bootie is a fabulous alternative to pulling off a casual but put-together look. 

4.  Comfortable.  Every pair of bootie that I have owned has been extremely comfortable.  When a shoe is comfortable you wear it and that is a good investment.

5.  Cross-seasonal.  Don’t know if I just made that term up but what I’m saying is that you can honestly wear the bootie year-round if you style correctly.  Winter; with skinnies and an oversized sweater.  Spring; with a maxi skirt and cotton tee.  Summer; with boyfriend jeans and a flirty tank.  Fall; with tights and a blazer.

6.  Can be dressed casual or fashionably chic.  Fun colors?  Sign me up.  Pointy or almond toe?  Work appropriate.  Check, check and check.

The most conflicting issue of all. . .  which to choose?  With such variety in style and selection I would recommend buying a nude or neutral pair first.  Nude is chic and will elongate the look of your legs (and will go with just about…anything).  If you feel inclined; buy in multiples!  Once you find the perfect pair, see if it comes it different colors. 

What is your favorite way to style the bootie?

Report; $99

Blazer

Blazers; there's nothing more simple and polished then a tailored jacket.  The thing I love most about a blazer is you get maximum polish for minimum effort (i.e. when you are scrambling to get ready in the morning for work).  Also, blazers come in all sorts of textures (light cotton, lined-wool), styles (cropped, boyfriend), colors (black, light blue, . . pink) and weights (summer vs. winter weights). 

Anyway, I was out shopping with my fashionista friend (Ms. Meghan Bas) last weekend we unearthed some pretty serious blazers during our excursion. 

The first find we found was a closeout deal from Ann Taylor Loft.  The blazer is exquisitely made of black wool/tweed with faint white speckles with an applique that runs along the bottom hem and breast flaps.  This blazer was a quaint $24 plus tax and I am certain I'm going to get a lot of use out of it!

I also managed to snag a fun and fabulous bright pink blazer from H&M!  This blazer will transition into Spring very well and I am looking forward to wearing this bold new style. 

Get wild, be crazy.  Buy a fabulous jacket and rock it!