August 24th, I’m Back!

Hello Friends! Guess what? I’m back! (Obviously!).

I’m not sure how much I’m really ready to do yet… but I actually missed my little old blog this summer- so I’ve decided to come back- but on a not so regular basis (meaning I won’t be posting my outfits every day!).

So here goes…

Today I’m wearing the simple and ever classic combo of black and white. I’ve paired skinny black leggings with a white loose tank and then to add interest (and to hide my hips a bit) I’ve thrown on this drapey grey vest. I’ve decided to keep my shoes really simple- and opted for my black patent Birkenstocks. (Missey- these are for you!). And, naturally, I’ve added a necklace to complete the look (which follows my rule of 3!)

I like this outfit because it’s easy, comfy, looks effortless and yet seems somewhat stylish!?

Now for the before! I actually took 2 before pictures- because it’s so easy to go so wrong.

In my first before I am wearing cropped black pants.

These cropped pants make my legs look so short!

Ladies- PLEASE get rid of any pants you have that are cropped the mid calf. They are not flattering and make your legs look really short. The other problem is my white t shirt  is matronly with the high neckline. Lastly, these shoes are also awful! I bought these last year when the menswear trend was so popular- and let that be a lesson- don’t follow every trend. These shoes are goofy & clunky looking- not sleek and stylish (which is what I aspire for! 🙂

My second ‘before’ look is the slim black pants, but paired with a regular tank. I’m showing this because the tank alone is not flattering. Not only can you can see my pooch- but the short length doesn’t provide enough coverage of my hips and butt- and no one needs to see that! Opt instead for a loose fitting, longer flowy tank that provides more coverage.

This fitted tank emphasizes every bump and the length is too short with this tight of pants. Cover your bums ladies!

So there you have it- I hope you have had a great summer- and thanks for visiting me today!

May 1st- Black and White

Today’s outfit is plain and simple, just white pants and a black t shirt. It’s a classic look that is easy to wear.

BUT- as you can see on the right- you do need to put a little effort into the look.

The plain black crew neck t shirt is too boring, and the ballet flats aren’t working (my pants are too long for flats).

On the left is my new look. I have on my favorite shirt (you may recognize this one, I have it in 3 colors! Got them at Nordstrom last year!). The neckline is slightly different, the ruching around the waist is more flattering, and the cute sleeves add interest.

Also adding interest is this cool statement necklace. It gives the whole outfit a focal point- and is a great conversation piece (my husband bought this for me at a flower shop in Seattle!).

I get asked by readers all the time about the bootleg cut- and so today I wanted to show that the bootleg cut still works, just be sure to pair it with wedges- NO FLATS!

I love the way black and white look together.

Pants: Express, Shirt: Nordstrom, Shoes: DSW

Feb 8th, Ain’t No Mom Jeans!

This is another very exciting day for me! One of my ‘go to’ blogs for advice, Ain’t No Mom Jeans is featuring Everyday Mom Style on their Mom’s Street Style feature today! I’m flattered! To check it out, click here.

Today I’m showing what some people consider to be a wardrobe staple- a wrap dress. A wrap dress is flattering on almost any figure and can be worn during the day, at night, dressy or casual.

I’ve decided to go for casual today. On the right I show my first wrap dress. I bought this thinking I would wear it all the time- and guess what? I NEVER wore it.

Here’s why: The wrap always comes undone giving me a horrible fear of flashing someone. Also, the length is off (it’s a little too long) and the plain black is boring.

On the left I have replaced the matronly black dress with this cute black and white geometric pattern faux wrap. That’s key for me- there will be no flashing because this baby is sewn together! I’ve added a tank underneath to give even more coverage.

I’ve paired it with my denim jacket (which helps make the look more casual and day appropriate) and my flat black boots- I’m going to be on my feet all day, so no heels for me!

To add a bit of flair and color I’ve added this gorgeous Stella and Dot necklace. Stella and Dot is my absolute favorite jewelry right now- their stuff is so on trend and well made. If you’re interested, click here to learn how you can buy some jewels, book a trunk show, or even become a rep.* (I am not being compensated for this- but I did receive the necklace for free.)

I'm just running errands and taking the dog to the vet today- but why shouldn't I look cute?

Dress: Nordstrom Rack, Jacket: Gap, Boots: Nordstrom, Necklace: Stella and Dot

Jan 10th, Black and White

 Today I am participating in another challenge (gotta keep it fun, right?) This one is by a blog called “Everybody, Everywear” and they come up with a style idea and ask people to link up- today’s theme being dress in black and white.

It’s fun because it’s a great way to see a ton of really cool ideas- all in one place!

I actually love black and white- no surprise there, huh? And luckily, I just bought this adorable black and white checked blouse at J Crew.

I had a lot of fun seeing what I could style it with- and came up with a few options.

My first may seem eerily familiar, probably because I wore something similar (here)  last week! I’ve paired my dark skinny jeans with this blouse and then threw on a black cashmere v neck sweater. To keep it true to ‘everyday’ style, I’ve got on black ballet flats.

I love the pattern of the shirt peeking out beneath the sweater. Casual & cool

My next look is also good for everyday- this time I tried a long black cardigan- but switched things up a bit by adding a red necklace and red ballet flats. Love that little pop of color!

I love how the red shoes really stand out!

Last, I decided to try it with a jacket and a scarf. Sometimes I’ll be running errands all day- and will never even take my coat off- so it’s fun to have a cute jacket that is stylish as well as functional. This one is a raincoat- perfect for Seattle- and I got it at JC Penny- seriously! Not sure why I was even in JC Penny! LOL!

Again with the bright pop of color!

Jeans: Anthropologie, Shirt: J Crew, Sweater: Ann Taylor, Cardigan: Boutique in Vancouver, BC, Jacket: JC Penny, Scarf: Gift, Shoes: Top- Tory Burch, Middle: Target, Bottom: Cole Haan