Category Archives: Ask

Styling Exercise: One Piece at a Time

22 Monday Apr 2013

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From friends and coworkers to acquaintances and more, this is the most common fashion gripe I hear:

“I have individual pieces that I like but I don’t know how to put things together.”

When it comes to fashion, sometimes all you have to do to style a favorite new look is think outside the box. Whenever I’m stuck on what to wear, I focus in on one piece and build a look around it. I find that if I have one piece in mind, it’s easier for me to get creative than if I’m putting together something out of nothing.

Take a look in your closet and pick a piece that strikes your current mood. In this case, I chose the leather shorts. Now, using that piece as the foundation for the outfit, pick another piece that you have not yet paired it with. For me, it was the oversized denim shirt. I liked the idea of mixing sexy leather and utilitarian denim. I decided to add tights since this was a work look (I work in a creative industry so I have much more freedom than most when it comes to workwear) and the collar necklace to make it a little more dressy. To keep in line with the rocker appeal of the shorts, I had to lace up my trusty Litas.

Before I knew it, I had styled an entirely new look just from shopping in my closet and getting a little creative.

DSC_0147 DSC_0149 DSC_0168 DSC_0191Shirt: Marciano. Shorts: BB Dakota. Tights: Wolford. Sunglasses: Gucci. Necklace: tasha. Shoes: Jeffrey Campbell.

Man Style: Retro Cool

21 Monday Jan 2013

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What’s the latest look for guys to wear now?

You ask, I deliver. Today we explore the oft-ignored topic of Man Style. While men’s clothing isn’t (and will likely never be) as adventurous as women’s, a guy with a sense of style is definitely appreciated.

There’s nothing sexier than a guy in a well-tailored slim-fit shirt and pants. Take this handsome model for example. He manages to put together a retro look with a basic button-down, tie and slacks. By paying attention to the details and taking a few risks, his style stands out and he asserts a defined point of view. The checked shirt topped with a dotted tie creates a distinctive contrast, and the dark brown pants are a modern alternative to classic black or grey. Always-in wayfarers, a sleek tie clip and classic wingtips in an unexpected color are the final pieces to this office-to-after hours look.

DSC_2636_2 DSC_2631 DSC_2635Shirt: Gap. Pants: Haggar. Tie: Egara. Shoes: Kenneth Cole.

Special thanks to my hubby, Andrew, for his guest appearance!

7 Days of Gifts – Day 7: Significant Other

10 Monday Dec 2012

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 7 DAYS OF GIFTS
Your Guide to Flawless Gifting for Him and Her

December is officially upon us! While many retailers now start their Christmas marketing in the middle of October (even before Halloween!), my cue to kick the holiday shopping into gear is seeing DEC on the calendar.

As a self-proclaimed Proud Gifter, I get a legitimate thrill out of finding just the right gifts for everyone on my list—the gifts that they really, truly LOVE getting. (Side note: I’m also a willing recipient of said gifts.)

Since scouring malls and websites in search of the perfect gifts can be quite time-consuming, I took it upon myself to do the work for you in this “7 Days of Gifts” series. You can thank me later.

Every day this week, I’ll feature smile-inducing, reasonably-priced gift ideas for the near and dear on your shopping list.


DAY 7: Significant Other

Arguably the most important giftee, your other half deserves a well thought-out gift that suits his or her personality. I love trying to come up with something that he might not know he needs, but is obsessed with it once he has it. If you pay attention during the months leading up to the holidays, ideas for a perfect gift often come up in casual conversation. Above all else, effort counts. As long as you put some thought into it, your gift will be well received.

Here are some ideas to get you started:

FOR HER
Under $100
Canvas Print, $69 for 11″ x 14″
Choose a photo from a memorable trip or one of the two of you and turn it into wall art for a thoughtful gift she’ll always appreciate.
giftscanvas-prints

Under $150
Michael Kors Peyton Aviators, $144
Instant chic: these sunnies look good on everyone and she’ll wear them year after year.
giftssunglasses2190019-p-MULTIVIEW

Under $200
Rebecca Minkoff Mini MAC bag, $195
A must-have bag to use for day or night.
Mini MAC - Sand

FOR HIM
Under $100
Tickets
Whether it’s a basketball game or a concert, tickets to an event he’ll love are always a great pick.
giftsticketsdsc_7427

Under $150
Nixon The Cruiser Watch, $150
Retro meets modern in this distinctive steel watch.
gifts watchA357-000-view1

Under $200
V-Moda Over the Ear Headphones, $199
Ideal for travel days, these headphones offer amazing comfort and superior sound.
Her inside tip: Check Amazon for possible sale price.
giftsheadphonesp2_flying_wbg_cropped_web__83631.1320473363.1280.1280

As 7 Days of Gifts comes to an end, I hereby name you an expert in the art of gifting. Now get out there and start shopping.

Happy Holidays!

7 Days of Gifts – Day 6: BFF

08 Saturday Dec 2012

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 7 DAYS OF GIFTS
Your Guide to Flawless Gifting for Him and Her

December is officially upon us! While many retailers now start their Christmas marketing in the middle of October (even before Halloween!), my cue to kick the holiday shopping into gear is seeing DEC on the calendar.

As a self-proclaimed Proud Gifter, I get a legitimate thrill out of finding just the right gifts for everyone on my list—the gifts that they really, truly LOVE getting. (Side note: I’m also a willing recipient of said gifts.)

Since scouring malls and websites in search of the perfect gifts can be quite time-consuming, I took it upon myself to do the work for you in this “7 Days of Gifts” series. You can thank me later.

Every day this week, I’ll feature smile-inducing, reasonably-priced gift ideas for the near and dear on your shopping list.


DAY 6: BFF

There for you through the good, the bad and everything between, your BFF offers love, laughs and a shoulder to cry on all throughout the year. Show your thanks with a special something she or he will love long after the decorations are packed away.

FOR HER, $50 and Under

Kenneth Jay Lane Set of 9 Crystal Bangles, $50

Chic, timeless and they go with everything.giftsbangleset327664_in_xl

Kate Spade iPad Sleeve, $50

The perfect choice from her partner in crime.

giftsipadsleevePSRU1012A_941

Garance Doré 11″x14″ Poster: Early Winter, $40

An undeniably cool symbol of you and your BFF from acclaimed photographer, illustrator and blogger, Garance Doré.

giftsweb-early-winter-pap_1024x1024

FOR HIM, Under $50

Whiskey Stones, $21.95

Keep night caps chilled without watering them down.

giftswhiskey-stones-069404939

Zara Square Cufflinks, $35.90

Masculine, sleek and modern. James Bond would approve.

gifts6214313808_1_1_1

STUFF Every Man Should Know book, $9.95

As his best bud, you’re in charge of looking our for him. Save him from embarrassment and protect his manly man-ness when with this little lifesaver. It shows you handy things like how to change a tire and how to open a beer when no one has an opener handy. You know, stuff guys should know how to do.

giftsstuff-every-man-should-know-185173495

Only one more day to go! Are you getting through your shopping list?

7 Days of Gifts – Day 5: Dad

06 Thursday Dec 2012

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 7 DAYS OF GIFTS
Your Guide to Flawless Gifting for Him and Her

December is officially upon us! While many retailers now start their Christmas marketing in the middle of October (even before Halloween!), my cue to kick the holiday shopping into gear is seeing DEC on the calendar.

As a self-proclaimed Proud Gifter, I get a legitimate thrill out of finding just the right gifts for everyone on my list—the gifts that they really, truly LOVE getting. (Side note: I’m also a willing recipient of said gifts.)

Since scouring malls and websites in search of the perfect gifts can be quite time-consuming, I took it upon myself to do the work for you in this “7 Days of Gifts” series. You can thank me later.

Every day this week, I’ll feature smile-inducing, reasonably-priced gift ideas for the near and dear on your shopping list.


DAY 5: DAD
Dad can often be the toughest person to shop for. He doesn’t drop many hints, and if he’s anything like mine, he already has nearly every tech gadget out there. Rest assured, I have a few ideas that will pleasantly surprise him.

Under $75
Personalized Return Address Embosser, starting at $69.99
giftsstamp1

Under $100
Grill Light, $39.99 + Cuisineart Tools, $35.99 + Propane Gauge, $24.99
giftsgrilllight439794p

giftsbbqtools730088p
 giftspropanegauge592881p

Under $125
Kindle Paperwhite, $119

giftkindleKC-slate-03-lg._V400694812_

Which picks have been your favorites so far? There’s still more to come!

7 Days of Gifts – Day 4: Mom

05 Wednesday Dec 2012

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 7 DAYS OF GIFTS
Your Guide to Flawless Gifting for Him and Her

December is officially upon us! While many retailers now start their Christmas marketing in the middle of October (even before Halloween!), my cue to kick the holiday shopping into gear is seeing DEC on the calendar.

As a self-proclaimed Proud Gifter, I get a legitimate thrill out of finding just the right gifts for everyone on my list—the gifts that they really, truly LOVE getting. (Side note: I’m also a willing recipient of said gifts.)

Since scouring malls and websites in search of the perfect gifts can be quite time-consuming, I took it upon myself to do the work for you in this “7 Days of Gifts” series. You can thank me later.

Every day this week, I’ll feature smile-inducing, reasonably-priced gift ideas for the near and dear on your shopping list.


DAY 4: MOM

Shopping for mom is one of my favorite holiday to-dos. Finding her just the right gift lets her know how important she is, and considering she brought you into the world and all, it’s the least you can do. With these three beautiful gifts at your price-point of choice, you can treat her to something special and thoughtful…she definitely deserves it.

Under $75
Kate Spade Crèmè de la Crèmè Pendant Necklace, $58
gifts katespadenecklace_7353812  giftskatespadeback_7362894

Under $100
Alexis Bittar Crystal-Encrusted Rose Gold Earrings, $95

giftsalexisbittar6977ffce0ff73af6385ac67adbc7f3df

Under $125
Rachel Zoe Extra-Long Signature Velvet Scarf, $115
available in 6 colors
giftsrachelzoe_7317824


Only 3 days left this week! Have you started shopping yet?

7 Days of Gifts – Day 3: (Official & Unofficial) In-Laws

05 Wednesday Dec 2012

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7 DAYS OF GIFTS
Your Guide to Flawless Gifting for Him and Her

December is officially upon us! While many retailers now start their Christmas marketing in the middle of October (even before Halloween!), my cue to kick the holiday shopping into gear is seeing DEC on the calendar.

As a self-proclaimed Proud Gifter, I get a legitimate thrill out of finding just the right gifts for everyone on my list—the gifts that they really, truly LOVE getting. (Side note: I’m also a willing recipient of said gifts.)

Since scouring malls and websites in search of the perfect gifts can be quite time-consuming, I took it upon myself to do the work for you in this “7 Days of Gifts” series. You can thank me later.

Every day this week, I’ll feature smile-inducing, reasonably-priced gift ideas for the near and dear on your shopping list.


DAY 3: (Official & Unofficial) In-Laws
Under $50

Whether you’re in a new relationship or have already said your vows, getting something for your significant other’s parents is a must – especially if you plan on seeing them over the holidays. Avoid showing up embarrassed and empty handed by planning ahead and choosing a thoughtful gift for the home. These picks are guaranteed to prove how much of a catch you really are.

Maison 140 Set of 4 Agate Coasters, $36

giftsAgate_Coaster_509c3851eb11f

Set of 3 Winter Home Filled Candles, $49

giftscandlesprod1770001_H12

Crate & Barrel Mercury Glass Decorative Bowl, $39.95

giftsmercury-glass-decorative-bowl

Crate & Barrel Chubby Ceramic Snowman Ornaments, $15.95 +
Williams Sonoma Peppermint Bark, $26.95

giftschubby-ceramic-snowman-ornaments-set-of-four

giftspeppermintbark

Who will tomorrow’s lucky recipient be? Come back to find out!

7 Days of Gifts – Day 2: Siblings

03 Monday Dec 2012

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7 DAYS OF GIFTS
Your Guide to Flawless Gifting for Him and Her

December is officially upon us! While many retailers now start their Christmas marketing in the middle of October (even before Halloween!), my cue to kick the holiday shopping into gear is seeing DEC on the calendar.

As a self-proclaimed Proud Gifter, I get a legitimate thrill out of finding just the right gifts for everyone on my list—the gifts that they really, truly LOVE getting. (Side note: I’m also a willing recipient of said gifts.)

Since scouring malls and websites in search of the perfect gifts can be quite time-consuming, I took it upon myself to do the work for you in this “7 Days of Gifts” series. You can thank me later.

Every day this week, I’ll feature smile-inducing, reasonably-priced gift ideas for the near and dear on your shopping list.


DAY 2: SIBLINGS
Under $50

Brothers and sisters can often be the hardest to shop for (at least for me). I want to get them something they will actually use, but wouldn’t necessarily buy for themselves. My gifting philosophy is that there always has to be a little indulgence. Otherwise, where’s the fun? Show them they deserve a special treat with these can’t-fail picks.

SISTER
Mix and match two of these gifts for Under $50 brilliance

Sephora + PANTONE Universe Opulent Lacquer Trio, $19

gifts nail polishs1460443-main-heroSephora Give Me Some Lip Sampler, $25 ($79 value!)

sephoralipss1453901-main-LheroAlex and Ani Script Initial Bangle, $24

gifts alexanibracelet_6386405

FOR HIM
One awesome gift or two awesome gifts. Looks like a win, win.

J.Crew Leather iPhone Case with Embossing, $48

giftsjcrewphonecase43016_SP3859

or Topman Skinny Tie (a must for modern style), $19giftstopmantie_7371159

plus Brixton “Butcher II” Touch-Screen Gloves, $30giftsgloves_7424408

Can you guess who we’re gifting tomorrow? Check back to find out!

7 Days of Gifts – Day 1: Co-Worker

02 Sunday Dec 2012

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7 DAYS OF GIFTS
Your Guide to Flawless Gifting for Him and Her

December is officially upon us. While many retailers now start their Christmas marketing in the middle of October (even before Halloween!), my cue to kick the holiday shopping into gear is seeing DEC on the calendar.

As a self-proclaimed Proud Gifter, I get a legitimate thrill out of finding just the right gifts for everyone on my list—the gifts that they really, truly LOVE getting. (Side note: I’m also a willing recipient of said gifts.)

Since scouring malls and websites in search of the perfect gifts can be quite time-consuming, I took it upon myself to do the work for you in this “7 Days of Gifts” series. You can thank me later.

Every day this week, I’ll feature smile-inducing, reasonably-priced gift ideas for the near and dear on your shopping list.


DAY 1: CO-WORKER
Under $25

First up? That extra-special co-worker who makes your Monday through Friday actually bearable. Your saving grace on the tough days, and your inside joke partner on the better days. He/she may not be your best friend, but they still deserve a token of your appreciation.

FOR HER: Kate Spade Let’s Do Lunch Business Card Holder, $20

giftscardholder

FOR HIM: Z Gallerie Great Mustache Push Pins, $5.95 and Mug, $12.95

giftsmustache-push-pins-set-of-8-186910655agiftsgreat-mustaches-mug-066763212

Come back tomorrow for sibling gift ideas!

Ready, Set, Jet!

25 Sunday Nov 2012

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Travel days can be rough. Heavy bags, long lines, cramped airplane seats, recycled air…you get the idea. But no matter how grueling the process is, it’s no excuse for a poorly put-together outfit. With a few essential pieces you can compile a look that’s comfy, chic and easily adapts to the ever-changing travel temperatures.

Start with leggings and an oversized sweater (the less constrictive the better), then add a leather jacket on top and a scarf that can double as a pillow or blanket. Rely on flat boots since they’re easy to get around in and they would take up too much room in your luggage anyway. Plus, boots equal socks underneath, which means no walking barefoot through germ-infested security checkpoints. A generous-sized leather bag lets you tote all your important travel docs as well as your beloved iPad, kindle, gossip mags, water, etc. so you have everything at hand in one polished piece. Safe travels!

Ready, Set, Jet!
Wildfox Couture printed shirt / Shine leather jacket / AllSaints leggings  / Knee high boots / Elin Kling for Marciano weekender tote bag / AllSaints scarf  / Linda Farrow Luxe sunglasses