We are headed to a brunch today to celebrate the end of the year for my son, who is graduating high school. Woot hoot! I’ve chosen a cute black and white striped dress. Alone, it’s a little plain- so I added this cute statement necklace from Stella and Dot (old) and a black blazer with the sleeves pushed up. Peep toe shoes complete the look.
Sorry I didn’t get to post yesterday! I was still in Vegas at the National Charity League conference and didn’t have time for photos. I got home late last night and will be back to my regular posting this week with links and better write ups! Enjoy your Sunday.
I honestly think this might be the perfect dress (for me)! I bought it on a girl’s trip to Vegas celebrating my 40th birthday, which was 8 years ago! So it’s definitely old, but boy have I worn it a lot! When I need a ‘go to’ dress for any occasion, this is the one I usually turn to. Today I’m going to a brunch to celebrate the seniors in our local National Charity League* chapter.
There’s a lot to love about this dress.
I think the pattern is cool and fun- and easy to transition between seasons. Plus, having a black base makes picking shoes easy!
The rayon fabric is flowy, which means it flatters most figures and the cinched elastic waistband is super comfy.
The knee length is appropriate for someone my age (way over 40).
The neckline is flattering, and if you don’t want to show your arms (or it’s cold) a cute jacket or sweater covers you up.
If the blazer and pointy heels are too dressy, you can make it casual by pairing with a cardigan and open toed shoes.
When you are out shopping, if you see a dress you love, my advice is buy it. Even if you don’t have a specific occasion in mind, it’s always nice to have one on hand. This cute dress came from Banana Republic. They are a great source for reasonably priced dresses.
*I wanted to put in a quick plug about National Charity League. This is a mother- daughter organization that was created in the 1920’s. Their mission is service, culture and leadership. Girls (and their mothers) join the year they are going into 7th grade- and continue for the next 6 years (until they graduate high school). It is an amazing organization and I highly recommend you looking into it if you are interested. Hopefully there is a chapter in your area! The website is https://www.nationalcharityleague.org
As mentioned earlier, my dress is really old, but here’s a link to Banana Republic to check out their Fit and Flare dresses!
Today I am showing how easily one can go overboard on color.
When I showed my daughter the outfit on the right she exclaimed ‘oh, no mom- way too colorful’! Keep in mind, she’s 9!
However, if you look at J Crew, or some of the high style blogs- you’ll see people doing some crazy things with color.
Personally, I’d rather play it safe with sticking to one bright color and then balancing the outfit with neutrals like white and black.
I’ve chosen a simple and classic button down white blouse. This one is from Brooks Brothers- and it is the no wrinkle style- which I love! I’ve paired it with a classic black blazer and pearls. Let the pink pants get all the attention!
I’ll be the first to admit I’m getting old, which probably means I’m out of touch with what is current.
I was at the mall last night (yes, sad life that I lead- I’m at the mall on a Saturday night) and I saw several women dressed like hookers (except they weren’t – at least I don’t think so).
They were simply out on a date wearing (in my opinion) totally inappropriate clothing.
I swear, I saw 3 different women with skirts so short I literally couldn’t believe it was even possible. And heels so high, I don’t know how they were walking.
Where is my camera when I need it?!
The thing that really looked weird to me (besides the fact they were at a mall dressed like this) was that their dates were dressed perfectly normal. Jeans, jackets and casual shoes…
Is this fashion? Am I too old to recognize style? Possibly!
To me, this picture above is an appropriate date outfit. I’m wearing black skinny pants, wedge shoes (open toed sandals or heels would have been even better- but there is snow on the ground), a sequined top and a black blazer. I don’t think anyone will confuse me with a working girl- and my hubby will have no fear that the entire world will see my private parts.
Call me old fashioned, call my judgemental- but let’s leave something to the imagination people.
Enough preaching. Enjoy your Sunday.
More and more style bloggers are wearing sequins during the day. Would you?
Top: Marshalls, Blazer: Nordstrom, Pants: Gap, Shoes: DSW, Necklace: Gift
I’ve saved the best for last… not really, but this is definitely one of my favorites and it’s my ‘go to’ outfit. It’s classic, simple and very easy.
I wear this when I’m volunteering at school, or out shopping, or to casual day at work, out to dinner with friends… it’s always appropriate and stylish.
I’ve simply paired my dark jeans with a white tank, my black blazer and black flats. For interest and personality, I’ve added a necklace and a stack of bracelets.
I happen to like it plain, but changing the color (or adding pattern) to the tank is another great way to add style.
Nothing too exciting, definitely not cutting edge- but it’s me!
Be willing to invest a bit in your black blazer- this staple will be in style for years...
I’ve linked to Fashion Friday– check it out for some great ideas!
I’ve spent the day with my kids baking cookies, playing games, watching Christmas Vacation and working on our Christmas puzzle- all in my jammies! Heaven!
I’m showing my outfit for church tonight. I’m wearing this cute dress (you may remember last time I wore it with a sweater over it to make it look like a skirt). This time I’ve paired it with my black blazer- both to add polish and warmth.
Although truth be told, it feels more like spring than winter here in the Pacific Northwest. It’s definitely NOT going to be a white Christmas. Oh well… only in my dreams…
Sorry, had to go there.
By the way, what’s your favorite Christmas movie? Please share, I’m always looking for new ideas!
Aloha! Today I am showing a cute before and after from one of my faithful readers, Erin.
As you can see from the first outfit, she looks a little boring. The black long sleeve shirt and jeans are fine- but there is nothing exciting about this look.
Next you can see how she has changed things up. She added this adorable blazer and this amazing necklace. She also switched out her plain black ballet shoes for these polka dot ones. Now that’s a look that will get a second glance. Well done! Thanks for sending in your pics!
This outfit is just too plain, there is no wow factor!
There is so much more attention to detail here! Very cute!
Well, it’s Wednesday again, which means I’m linking with The Pleated Poppy for What I Wore Wednesday, which is one of my favorite ‘go to’ sites for great ideas.
Even though on Saturday I showed this ‘before’ look on the right- in case you missed it, I’m showing it again. There is nothing wrong with this casual look, but I want to show how simple it is to dress up jeans and a jacket.
For running errands, volunteering at school or for lunch with friends- skinny jeans and a polished blazer with cute shoes are a great and EASY look!
I’ve got on my dark skinny jeans (I’ve noticed I wear these a lot, maybe time to invest in a new pair?), a cream tank, black blazer and Burberry inspired scarf.
My dilemma is what shoes to wear?
I’m showing 3 different looks- please comment and let me know your favorite!
I'm always a fan of leopard flats!
To dress up the look, these high heeled loafers are nice.
I love the square toe on these patent leather flats. They remind me of ballet shoes!
Cocktail dress dressed down with the blazer and pumps.
Well, kids are off to school- Mother in Law has headed back to Florida- you know what this means-I’m back at work! Today’s outfit is my ‘working girl’ look. I took a cute cocktail dress and paired it with a serious black blazer and black pumps. I like this outfit- because I think this dress is so cute- I love the cool colors, the interesting pattern and my favorite- the unusual neckline. This dress is by the same designer as the asymmetrical top from yesterday- a brand called Ya Los Angeles. I bought it while on vacation at a cute little boutique. But- because I so rarely go to cocktail parties- I wanted to give this dress a chance to shine during the day. By pairing it with the blazer and pumps, it doesn’t look like I’m heading for a night on the town. What do you wear to work?
No necklace necessary, the unusual neckline stands well enough alone.
For a night out, or if your going for drinks after work, remove the jacket and change shoes!
Blazer: Nordstrom, Shoes: Nordstrom: Dress: Black Dog Boutique
Everyday Mom Style 