Even though the sun is clearly shining down on these beauty booties, we all know, as much as we hate to admit it, that Fall is creeping around the corner and fast. The best thing about Fall and one of the things that makes saying goodbye to Summer a heck of a lot easier are booties!! Literally the item in my closet that I have the most of and the accessory my husband loves the most and chooses often. I can't get enough, and it seems to me that there are so many options and styles you just have to have even when you think you have all that you need.
I have added a few to my collection this summer but these are the staples I plan to be seen in often starting here in the next few weeks. They are all great to wear with jeans (cropped or full length), with leggings, with dresses, shorts and even skirts so really they are the perfect way to transition into a season that doesn't really know what it wants to be. :) Snakeskin Lucky Brand Yimina Wedge Timberland Sutherlin Bay Slouch Steve Madden Rockstar Leopard Sesame Suede Lucky Brand Yimina Wedge Two-toned Shield Transitional Blondo Valli Waterproof Bootie
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We're all stalked up on animal prints like snakeskin, leopard and cheetah and while the animal print trend seems to be holding strong, it is becoming slightly over saturated and I am expecting it to fade a bit in the coming months. That doesn't mean you should pack it all up and send it out the door, it just means it's time to start adding some new prints to your closet to be ready for fall. The plaid print trend is always hot for fall and this year it's going to be hotter than ever as we see it in less than standard ways like in pants, skirts and blazers. I love a good plaid button down and they're so fun to style throughout the season but it might be time to think about other creative ways to add this print trend along with the button down.
Plaid Blazer Lace-Up Back Jumpsuit Boyfriend Shirt Linen-Blend Tie-Front Cami A-Line Mini Skirt Plaid Button Down Shirt Dress Floral print is not foreign to the trending prints of spring and summer, but this year the trend is carrying on through the fall months in more of a "moody floral" way. Darker floral prints will be seen a lot as the months pass deeper into the year and will be a print you'll want to consider watching for and adding to your closet soon. I shopped the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale last year and the year before for the first time. This year I have to say has been so much more fun, and shopping this sale is fun! It's been a blast finding the items I like the best and getting to share them with you all. I am not yet an influencer or even better an ambassador (that takes time, patience and a TON of followers) so I had to wait until 12:30pm today to gain access to the sale. So in this short amount of time I have found my most favorite items and some of them I even got to purchase for myself! So here they are, my top and desired pics. I hope you all enjoy and maybe even find yourself your own little treasure (or two). BOOTIES I absolutely love booties of all kinds and luckily for me, so does my husband. ;) This is what I spent most of my time on today because I knew I wanted to add a few more staples to my collection. Booties are the perfect transitional shoe and can be worn, styled the right way, throughout all four seasons. I justify spending a little bit more on items like this because I know they are going to be in my closet for years and I know they are going to add the perfect style to otherwise basic outfits. Steven Madden Rockstar Genuine Calf Hair Leopard Lucky Brand Yimina Wedge Bootie Sesame Suede Steve Madden Jillian Bootie Lucky Brand Jazley Wedge Bootie Black Open Toe Lucky Brand Yimina Wedge Bootie Chinchilla Snake Leather BOTTOMS I am always looking for ways to diversify my pant collection but then I also have my favorites that have earned a forever spot in my closet. I've always wanted to try faux leather leggings but my legs are literally my biggest problem area and I've honestly just not ever had the confidence to give these leggings a good go. However, I have heard so much good about Spanx, so this year I am just going for it! Zella leggings are my tried and true, they come in multiple colors and lenghts and they are just what every woman needs. Button fly pants are making a good strong comeback and these are two options in the sale that I love. The rust color is great for fall and then distressed jeans are just a must always. Spanx Faux Leather Leggings Zella Live in High Waisted Leggings Button Fly Skinny Jeans Sierra Rust Donna Button Fly Ankle Skinny Jeans TOPS I have a sweater addiction and especially for those that are oversized. My favorite seasons to dress for are fall and winter simply for the sweaters. :) So naturally, I wanted both of these beauties when I saw them this morning. The N Sale is also the prefect time to stock up on your staple items that just need refreshed in your closet. This v neck striped tee was an absolute for me and was under $12. Striped V Neck Tee Oversized Mock Neck Sweatshirt Cowl Neck Sweater ACCESSORIES You know those items you see and you NEED?! These are the items that you don't just want, they are the ones you HAVE TO HAVE. That's this snakeskin trim wool panama hat for me...I NEED it, I love it so much! I am obsessed with adding a hat to an outfit for style and these two picks would be great for fall and winter. I also love a good loafer and wear them often while I am at work. These snakeskin loafers have the perfect little stud detail on them just to make them that much more interesting. Snakeskin Trim Wool Panama Hat Shine Trim Wool Fedora Hat Feather Studded Loafer PONDERED PIECES Clearly my love for leopard runs deep, so naturally these two pieces in the sale stood out to me. Suits and blazers are hot for fall so I have that trend on my radar. I wasn't ready to pull the trigger on this one yet only because I am not 100% sure how I am going to go about adding this tend into my wardrobe...plaid is also on trend for fall.
This leopard dress would look so cute paired with a faux leather jacket for a date night outfit, but it just wasn't a priority for me to purchase in the sale just because I was looking more for closet staples. Love this style though, the pattern and the cut are super flattering and sexy. Leopard Print Faux Suede Blazer Midi Slip Dress I hope you have the best time shopping the Nordstrom Sale whether it's now or when it opens to the public on July 19th. It's a great time to treat yourself to an early birthday or Christmas present or just to get your wardrobe ready for fall. Happy shopping! So many of the spring trends that we love so much are here to last us through the summer! We thought we'd share our favorite trends in warmer weather styles with you so that you're fashion ready for the sunshine, beach days, bbqs and backyard parties. Many of the pieces we love hit multiple trends in one! Animal print, especially LEOPARD is here to stay...clearly! You can wear this trend full on like these adorable short overalls from Pink Lily Boutique or simply style an outfit with leopard print through your footwear (slides are a must this summer) and accessories like headbands and scrunchies. Click on the pictures for item details. Snakeskin is (aside from leopard) the hottest animal print trend for summer. Wear it in major pieces or double up on trends like neon snakeskin, Neon screams summer, this is the time of year when we need to be full of color. This trend can easily be paired with other patterns and color trends we love like animal print and tie dye. The tie dye trend is a great way to show off your style in a fun, chill and casual way and it doesn't have to just be a tee, try it in joggers, swimsuits, dresses and hoodies too. Paperbag shorts are a great way to add this trend to your summer style. We found two pieces that accommodate both your professional and day to day dress. Eyelet adds a breezy feminine touch to anything you wear from blouses to swim cover ups. Our favorite way to wear eyelet is in this embroidered button back by Abercrombie. Espadrille shoes have a very light, natural and organic feeling and are the perfect trend for summer. Resin is a trend seen this summer worn in bright pendent earrings and in large barrette hair accessories. Scrunchies, bows and barrettes are a must for your hair this summer. Perfect for those fly away frizzy days or even just humid up-do days, either way adding style to your hair is the way to go. We are loving the bright, colorful, airy and feminine trends this summer and love them even more that they have carried on from spring. This makes for a much easier season transition and will be much lighter on our wallets. Bring on the sunshine!
I actually can't stand snakes, they're gross, sneaky, and represent a whole lot of nothing good in my mind, BUT that design though! There's something just so sleek about it, the perfect little pop to add any style to an outfit. I absolutely LOVE a snakeskin shoe but recently I have been seeing it a lot more in a full outfit and not just as an accessory. Dresses, skirts, tops, pants, it's all there for you to try. I am not sure if I am ready to fully embrace the trend in that way, but the shoes, the bags, the belts, the earrings...I'm in. Here are a few of my favorites... And if you're ready to just go for it, here are some great options for you too!
We were lucky enough to be able to attend an event in Grand Rapids this past weekend called "Boutiques of West Michigan". It was a fashion show/shopping event and really just an awesome GNO! The message behind the mission of this event really felt empowering and inspiring. We were there to support the 35 female entrepreneurs that owned and operated the boutiques that were represented. It was a night to celebrate women and fashion, the perfect event for Jenae and I to attend right now. The fashion that was presented was completely on trend, both in conservative and edgy ways. It was so interesting to see multiple eras on the front line as far as 70s, 80s and my personal favorite, 90s fashions. Many of the styles left you wanting the whole ensemble, which really probably worked out well for the vendors. Beyond the fashion show we were able to shop the looks at each of the boutique's pop up shops. So during the show we each took notes of the pieces we just couldn't live without and then we were able to find them and try them on to be sure. I can't think of a better way to shop, see it on the runway and then swipe away. Of course it was another great way to learn about wonderful boutiques we hadn't heard of before. Aside from promoting local women in fashion, this event also raised awareness and funds for the Mid West's largest sheltered no-kill sanctuary called Mackenzie's Animal Sanctuary. The proceeds from ticket sales were donated to Mackenzie's and attendees were encouraged to bring donations from a list of needed items. I love events that support and celebrate women for who we are and what we are good at, what we do and what we love. At the end of the fashion show a group of models ventured back out all carrying framed signs that encased very truthful and liberating quotes about women and fashion. The best quote was that pictured above "Girls do not dress for boys. They dress for themselves and for each other." This was the quote that lead the way and we couldn't have agreed with it more. We agreed that when our husbands tell us we look nice or compliment us on our outfits, we love it and it definitely does not go unappreciated. However, when a compliment about something you're wearing comes from another woman, there's this "nailed it!" sort of feeling. It's funny, but it's true, we dress for us, we get fashion, and dang it, if we're feeling it, we're wearing it and when someone else who gets fashion notices, that speaks volumes. We are definitely looking forward to attending this event again and we'll be recruiting even more friends to join. I can't think of a better way to spend a night out with your fashion, shopping loving girlfriends. Participating boutiques were Marie La Mode, Gina's Boutique, Denym, Feather & Birch Trading Post, Lennon & Willow Boutique, LA Miller, jb and me, Covet Leisure, Lee & Birch, To and Fro, Sparrow Boutique, Ivy Castle, Second Dance, Pink Lemonade, Iris Boutique, The Kyra Danaya Collection, The Found Cottage, Therd and Co. Studio, and Michelle Krick, personal stylist. https://www.boutiquesofwestmichigan.com/the-boutiques Special thanks to these beautiful models from Michelle Krick Style
Isn't it so easy to get stuck in a black pant/leggings rut at work? Fortunately, we can get away with leggings and a cardigan in our school setting, but we do feel like it needs to be limited to once or twice (might even be pushing it) a week. With Spring here, ideally we see the end of the leggings/ cardi combo on the horizon (although we are in Michigan here and it did SNOW last week)... For those of you who can't wear leggings to work or just need a little inspiration for change, we've put together some ideas based on our recently made purchases. PAPER BAG: You all now know we are HUGE fans of the paper bag waist trend and there are so many affordable options available right now, especially if you are concerned about this trend not lasting beyond a few seasons. This style is especially great because it can tend to be a little more forgiving on the waistline. It can hide a little tummy action and the tie cinches you in nicely, creating the look of a smaller waist! We recently purchased two different options that we plan to pair with simple basic blouses or even a dressier t-shirt. You can wear these cropped pants with heels for the office or even flats for the classroom. Click the images for details. WIDE LEG: Although these could be worn in the classroom if you are a teacher, they remind me more of an office attire pant. Both great options for Spring and Summer and are especially perfect if you don't prefer skinny or copped styles. The flare can be worn with heels or flats depending on how long they are (the short lengths that many retailers offer or alterations are great options to work with flats). The wide leg peg pants would look great with a pair of strappy heels, as shown, or a pair of statement heels (like leopard print maybe, wink, wink). Click the images for details. THE JOGGER: If you're looking for something a little more relaxed and comfortable, we found these jersey peg pants that can be worn with sandals, flats or even heels. Dress them up with a blouse for a more professional look. Click the image for details. Back to black, because lets face it, it's just easy and an obvious go-to. If you are just looking to make your black pants a little more interesting, the jogger is a great option to change it up a bit from our basics. They can be paired with most any color/print, making your outfit selection a little easier. These are my absolute favorite Spring, Summer, and even early Fall black pant to wear to work. They look gorgeous with a statement heel and also super sleek with a trendy mule or flat. Click image for details. There you have it, multiple trendy and affordable ways to step out of your rut. Of course there are many other styles, options and colors available so you just need to do you and find what makes you feeling good and comfortable with a much need work pant change.
I am a BIG fan of making basics look trendy. I would much rather spend money on staple pieces and add trend with accessories and detail. This makes my husband much happier (he doesn't even realize this) and it saves me time from having to go through my closet and ditch what's "out" more than is necessary. To me, it's also much easier to stay young and hip and trendy (just amuse me) when you can add trend in modest, simple and easily achievable ways. So let's do it ladies! If you haven't already added these trends, they are all very easy ways to look like you know what you're doing and really, elements that can be added and kept in your closet for a worthy amount of time. HELLO 90'S WITH THE NEON This trend is bringing me back and it's making me feel so old even saying it. I grew up in prime time neon days and I couldn't love it more that it's made it's way back. It's a fun solid to add to a leopard or camo piece too. Picture a two piece bathing suit or a cute pair of camo utilities (also on trend) and neon on top. I love the two options Jenae and I found especially for transitioning into Spring. neon pink boyfriend sweater, ASOS neon green chunky knit sweater, ASOS... I ordered the pink one! :) FEMININE EYELET DETAIL I love how super pretty this simple detail makes you feel as soon as you put it on. It's a great way to transition into Spring and it'll take you all the way through the Summer. So cute with a distressed pair of jeans or denim cutoffs. Eyelet Raglin Sleeve Tee, The Loft Eyelet Crochet Mock Neck, Forever 21 PAPER BAG WAIST STYLE The great thing about this trend is that it adds style to everyday wear. Black pants are a daily thing for me to wear to work (mostly leggings but who's keeping track?) and the paper bag waist is an easy way to make a black pant outfit interesting. It's also a fun, flirty trend to wear in the summer with a cute pair of espadrille wedges... can we say day date?!! I WANT THESE and Jenae ordered a pair!! Paper-bag Pants, H&M Paperbag Waist Linen Shorts, Abercrombie GRACEFUL SQUARE NECKLINE Speaking of feminine, I feel like this screams beautiful grace. It's such a pretty detail added to a simple top that makes it cool hipster and classic at the same time. I picture these two finds with a fun and flirty skirt, distressed denim (everything looks good with distressed denim) and because of it's fit, the cream top could even paired with a pair of paper bag waist pants. Cream long sleeve square neck, ASOS Black square neck top, ASOS ANGASHION DRESSES This dress trend feels very bohemian, much like the square neck tops. It's very free, playful and youthful and makes me want to jump right into Summer. Super cute with flat thong sandals or a pair of espadrille wedges. You can add a pair of heels to dress it up for a summer wedding or shower too. Throw on a denim jacket for those chilly Summer nights or even to transition into Fall. How cute are these options that Jenae found?! Spaghetti Strap Midi, Amazon Button Front Midi, Nordstroms Rack TRIPPY TIE DYE Yup, you read that right. Tie dye isn't just something you wear to theme parties and make with your kiddos to keep them busy, it's a closet must for the coming seasons. I wasn't totally sold on it at first but then we found these beauties I became a little more inspired by the trend. I haven't pulled the trigger yet on a purchase but how cozy does this sweatshirt look?! Vintage Soft Raglin Sweatshirt, Gap Denim Jacket, Old Navy ESPADRILLE I love the natural materials that are trending right now with accessories and adding this detail to any new shoe purchase would scream on trend for Spring and Summer. There are so many cute and desirable options so it's very hard to pick just one (or two). I had to sneak in some leopard so this was the perfect way for me to add it in! Flatform Wedge Sandals, Amazon Snakeskin Wedge Sandal, DSW SNAKESKIN IS THE NEW LEOPARD It's true, though leopard is still a closet staple, snakeskin is adding to the neutral pack and can be worn with just about anything. I personally love it with bright Spring and Summer solids as an added pop to an outfit. You can find snakeskin, much like leopard, in just about anything. Jenae and I have both added it to our closets through these super classy shoe finds! Ruffle Detail Flat Mule, Shein Dolce Vita Wedge Sandal, DSW (FAUX) TORTOISE SHELL BUTTON DETAIL Such a super cute way to add a little sophistication and dimension to an otherwise ordinary blouse, sweater or dress. What's wonderful is that this detail has become a neutral colored accessory in place of a necklace. It feels very pure and natural when paired with white or simple denim. Boxy Top with Contrast Buttons, ASOS Puff Sleeve Top, Abercrombie RESIN EARRINGS, THE ACCESSORY OF THE SEASON I love a statement earring, but I am more of a simple girl. The great thing about resin is that it can be found in bolder colors or more modest tones. You can find it in all kinds of shapes and dimensions and can be lightweight and coy or heavier and more vivid. Hexagon Hoop Earrings, Amazon Hoop Earrings, Amazon It's fun to add trends in subtle ways that can be versatile and easily added to an every day outfit. It was so fun to "research" our favorite pieces of the season together and super hard not to add all of them to our carts. I will admit though that Jenae and I did find some super cute, undeniable, must have items that we added to our closet and we hope you have too. Happy shopping!
I have always wanted glasses, like mighta faked failing a vision screening test in fourth grade just so I could get a pair. Of course that lasted a hot minute and those glasses weren't fun to wear beyond a week. Miraculously my eyes self corrected and I didn't need glasses anymore. Well now 25+ years later, I want to be able to wear glasses again! I might have a slight obsession with this new trendy accessory, but what better way to add some pop to your outfit while covering up some maybe tired eyes or natural dark circles? I don't have an actual prescription but I do have some early research on blue light exposure and multiple pairs of blue light protection glasses. A friend of mine who is an optometrist told me that early studies suggest that continued exposure to blue light over time could lead to damaged retinal cells. This can cause vision problems and age-related macular degeneration. She also warned me that the age-related part is what is alarming, the average age for developing macular degeneration is getting younger and younger. While she did point out that this research is early and it's hard to say if there is real truth to it, why take the chance? Better to be proactive and protective then to take the risk. My kiddos both also wear blue light protection glasses at various, relevant times in their day. For me though, it's a major bonus to be protecting my vision while wearing a super cute accessory. It's an all around win! I've been thinking a lot this week about what people might think of me starting a blog, silly I know, but natural. Anyway, it's got me thinking a lot about my reason for doing this. Do I think that I am the trendiest person I know? Ummm a 1000% no. I am with many people on a daily basis who have way better style than I do. I do like to shop though, there's no better feeling than spoiling yourself a little with something that makes you feel good. When you buy something new to wear, naturally you can't wait to wear it and show it off. I guess for me the fashion part of this blog, and the social media part of it is to show off my finds, it's so fun to share new and exciting treasures. The ultimate compliment to me is when someone uses something I create, or find, or use, or wear, etc., so why not share it? Why not write about out?
Truthfully I started blogging over 7 years ago. I started during infertility as a way to journal privately and then more after I finally had a baby so that I could share with my friends and family. Then I started a blog just for my classroom so that I could communicate and share with parents. It's something that I love to do, it relaxes me, I find it kind of addicting and therapeutic. So just before the new year, I thought why not blog for fun, a lifestyle/fashion blog is fun! I made it a 2019 goal to not only create a blog as a hobby for me but to share and put myself out there. It won't be perfect, I am sure it will be full of mistakes and maybe no one will actually ever read it. This week I finally said it out loud to one of my besties, THE trendiest person I know and she made me excited to actually make it real. It was almost like she gave me that reassurance that it's not stupid and that it's something I could actually do. That's when Jenae came on board, I decided instantly to make her a part of this fun journey and someday (soon) maybe she'll actually introduce herself. ;) |
LUCKY LADY!
Melissa here! I'm all about trying to stay young, happy and on trend. I have a love (borderline obsession) for all things leopard and can't wait to chat about fashion with you! Archives
October 2020
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