Sept 30, Navigating Nordstrom

I can’t tell you how many of my friends don’t shop at Nordstrom simply because they find it to be totally overwhelming.

I can understand- I used to feel the same way. Walking into an enormous department store- it’s easy to be confused and not know where to even begin.

Today I am going to break it down for you!

Basically Nordstrom’s is divided into mini boutiques- all with their own identity.

Point Of View

This is the section that I frequent the most, it has somewhat trendy pieces- but is also mainstream and more affordable than most of the other sections! Examples of designers are Halogen and Vince Camuto. The top I’m wearing above is from this section!

Individualist 

This is definitely more trendy- and more expensive. There are more designer labels in this section. It is designed for hip and trendy fashionistas! Here you will find Vince, Theory, Tory Burch to name a few…

Savvy 

Savvy is even more upscale that Individualist! In our Nordstroms you have to walk through this section to get to the ladies room (which is lovely in itself!). You will find J Brand, Marc by Marc Jacobs and Joie. According to Nordstrom’s website,  Savvy is for ‘Edgy, of-the-moment looks for the confident, fashion-forward woman.’

Via C

You can tell just from the furnishings that you are now in an even more expensive area- different lighting, decor, even glass walls separate it from the other sections! Here you will find the most expensive designer wear- at very expensive prices. They often have clothing from new designers in this section- for example you will find Rag & Bone, Rachel Zoe, Helmut Lang… hint: I have NEVER bought anything in this section!!

B.P.  (Brass Plum)

This is the teen section- but don’t let that scare you off! I have seen plenty of 40 somethings browsing in this area (and not for their daughters!). I have bought scarves, belts and even a top or two in B.P. I will say though, be prepared- the sizes are small and quality is poor. Prices are cheaper though! I’d also recommend not shopping in this section too often- trends for 16 year olds just aren’t cute on 40 year olds.

T.B.D.

This is where to find your new jeans! Ask a salesperson to help you- they know each brand very well and can steer you in the right direction. The best news is that if you pay full price for jeans, they will do alterations for free! Yes, for free! Quick note- when having your jeans shortened, be sure to ask for the original hem to be re-attached! Brands in this section: Free People, Citizens of Humanity, Paige and 7 for all Mankind.

Studio 121

Again, according to the Nordstrom website, Studio 121 is ‘Chic, sophisticated wardrobe essentials for work and weekend.’. Here you will find classic pieces, nothing too trendy, but great basics that are well made and will never go out of style. Look for brands such as Eileen Fisher and Classiques Entier. It’s perfect for anyone over 40!

Narrative

Ralph Lauren, Anne Klein, Isaac Mizhari are all brands you will find in this section. Similar to Studio 121, this area is for mature shoppers who like classic, well made pieces from mainstream designers. You will also find coats in this section.

I haven’t covered every section- it is a big store- but hopefully this breaks it down a bit for you! Don’t be afraid to wander into any section and ask for help- the salespeople are usually extremely friendly (they are known for their excellent customer service). One time I brought in a skirt from home and asked for help finding a top to go with it. The sweet sales gal hunted all over the store and filled a dressing room with about 12 different options that I never would have found on my own!

Top and Jeans from Nordstrom, Shoes: Target, Necklace: Macy’s

April 16th, Attention Seeking Pants!

Today I opted for my pink cropped pants.

Since these pants are so bright and so attention seeking, I think pairing them with something subdued is a good idea.

However, as you can see on the right- a plain white t shirt is a little too subdued.

On the left I’ve opted for this cute crisp white cable knit sweater- and to add a little interest I have a chambray shirt peeking out underneath. I’ve also added a necklace and then my leopard flats.

Gotta run and get the kids up. My son leaves for camp today (outdoor ed through the school), so it’s a big day- and its raining… of course! Glad I got him some rain pants on sale at REI yesterday! Hope he wears them! 🙂

A real fashionista would probably pair these pants with something bright and colorful! I'm not that brave- plain white works just fine for me.

Pants: Nordstrom, Sweater: Macy’s, Shoes: Target, Chambray shirt: Target, Necklace: Kohl’s

Don’t forget it’s Monday so I’ve linked to Glamamom for Monday Mingle!

March 28th, Maxinitsa

 Good morning! I’m not sure about my spelling of Maxinista, but hopefully you know what I mean.

I have always been a big fan of TJ Maxx, my mom is a huge fan and passed her love down to me. LOL!

The thing is though- you have to be very careful and have a very critical eye when you go.

Don’t just snap up everything in your sight- don’t buy things just because they are inexpensive.

Go knowing what you are looking for- and then if you find it- yeah! If not, try again another day. They are constantly getting new shipments in.

I went looking for a maxi dress. I’ve wanted one for a long time- and was so excited to see this for $39.

The problem is- wearing it all alone, it sort of looks like a nightgown, don’t you think?

On the left I have tried to fix this by adding this cute shirt over my dress (I love the hemline of this top) and then to define my waist I added a cute pink belt. To finish it off, I threw on my favorite Stella and Dot necklace.

Cute, huh?

The nice thing about a maxi dress is that is makes your legs look really long. If you are petit, this might be a great dress for you (but you’ll need to wear heels).

By the way, I’ve slipped down to #11 on Top Mommy Blogs- don’t forget to click on the link on the right to vote. You can vote everyday, it’s just one tiny (and quick) click! Thank you so much!!

It’s Wednesday, so I’ve linked with Pleated Poppy for What I Wore Wednesday. Check it out!

I like that the dress and shirt are shades of blue- and then the pop of pink in the belt and necklace really stand out. The sandals may be wishful thinking today...

Dress: TJ Maxx, Shirt: Nordstrom, Belt: Target, Necklace: Stella and Dot, Shoes: Loft

March 25th, So Simple

One thing I’ve learned in this ‘fashion journey’ is how a very simple outfit can either look stylish or not- depending on small details.

A good example of that is today’s outfit.  I’ve paired blue jeans with a white t shirt and a black cardigan.

But- as you can see on the right, this outfit is awful.

The loose, baggy jeans are too long (see how they puddle around my ankles). The white t shirt has a neckline that is too high- and the cardigan looks awkward (the neckline is so much lower than the t shirt). And to be honest, the outfit is just a little too boring.

On the left I have replaced the baggy jeans with these cute slim and cropped ones (Old Navy, Diva style)

I’ve switched out the cardigan for this longer, short sleeve one and then added a scarf to add interest and color to the outfit. Now my outfit has a focal point.

For my shoes, instead of the ugly black Sketchers (on the right), I’ve got on cute black ballet flats.

Simple little changes that make a big difference! Enjoy your weekend. The sun in shining in Seattle today! Thank you Mother Nature!

I love this faux Burberry scarf!

Don’t forget to check out my Facebook page, and also to vote for Top Mommy Blogs. Thank you!

Jeans: Old Navy, Cardigan: Standard Style Boutique (Kansas City), Flats:Nordstrom, Scarf: gift from hubby!

March 24th, Auction Attire

I’m volunteering at our local hospital’s huge fundraising auction tonight, so I thought I’d show you what I’m wearing.

The auction will be pretty formal- but I also need to be comfy since I’ll be running around all night.

The key to that is my shoes. I’ve opted for my black wedge heels. They are stylish, but with the wedge heel- they will make is easy to be on my feet all night.

The dress I’ve chosen is one of my favorites. It’s a gorgeous blue color, made of viscose (rayon) so it’s super soft & comfy and the draped neckline is flattering. For accessories, I’m wearing necklace, black belt and bracelet.

A black bracelet adds to the look.

Dress: Nordstrom, Shoes: Macy’s, Necklace: Gift, Belt: Ann Taylor, Bracelet: H&M

March 19th, Mad for Plaid

 Today it’s just Kara and me… Erin had to leave yesterday. Bummer! 

Today we are showing two versions of a plaid shirt. On the right is my before look- which Kara so lovingly described as ‘you look like you are in your pajamas!’

I think she’s right!

These loose, baggy cargos have no shape and do indeed look like jammies. Maybe that’s why they’re so comfortable.

On the left I have traded out the baggys for my new skinny cargos. I’ve layered a sweater over my plaid shirt and then, to define my waist, I added a belt.

To finish the look, I threw on a necklace. Best of all, my plaid shirt is from Target (love a bargain).

Kara, on the other hand, is wearing a plaid shirt from J Crew. Hers is paired with skinny jeans, a thin wool sweater and then she’s also added a necklace.  My favorite part of her outfit is these fabulous J Crew booties. They are so comfy and so cute- and definitely on my wish list for next year…

To those of you who have been reading for a while, you know I’ve tried plaid shirts several ways and failed miserably each time. I think I finally got it right today! Go me!

An alternative to the sweater is a denim jacket. This cropped and fitted one works.

By the way, it’s monday Mingle, so be sure to check out those cute Bonbon Rose Girls!

Me: Pants: Micheal Kors, Shirt: Target, Sweater: Nordstrom, Shoes: Nordstrom

Kara: J Crew from head to toe!! (lucky girl)

March 17th, 3 Ways to Wear a Grandpa Sweater

Love these cropped pants, polka dot top and flats.

The longer work out pants and flip flops don't quite work.

Happy St. Patrick’s Day!

Sorry for the delayed post, we were up celebrating KU’s win last night (Rock Chalk) so we are moving slow this morning.

We’ve decided to show how versatile a grandpa sweater is by showing 3 totally different looks.

Erin has paired hers with cropped black pants, a cute polka dot blouse and a gorgeous necklace.

Kara has chosen cropped skinny jeans, a silk blouse tucked in and has added a belt, bracelet and two necklaces.

Her before is loose, faded baggy jeans, a plain white t shirt and birks just doesn’t have the same elegant look, does it?

I’ve chosen a black pencil skirt, a polka dot top and a pink cardigan. I’ve added a pink belt and have selected these cute espadrille wedges.

My before look of the plain white tank and baggy pants is unflattering and too messy.

I am so jealous of these gorgeous snakeskin wedge heels.

These baggy faded jeans are way too long for her.

I love the pink and black together. It's a good combo for spring.

These baggy pants are not flattering and the plain white tank is also making me look large in the tummy area.

Let me be totally honest, since it is snowing again here today- we will not be wearing any of these outfits- instead we will be bundled head to toe in the warmest things we can find. UGH! Spring- please come soon. We miss you!

Don’t forget to vote for Top Mommy Blogs- I need your vote each day (thank you!).

Now, go drink some green beer! And, if you’re feeling really festive, try a green blazer! Isn’t this cute?

This jacket is from Talbots, isn't it cute?

March 6th, Stumped!

For the first time since I started this blog, I am completely stumped on what to wear.

For some reason, I stand in my closet and stare at my clothes and can’t seem to put together a single outfit that you all haven’t already seen.

Luckily, my sisters are coming out for a visit next week and we’ll do lots of shopping. We also have some fun blog posts planned- so be sure to tune in next week to see what we are up to!

That being said, I’m sorry if today’s outfit is another bust (yesterday’s was a toss up- but I do agree with most of you that the length on my dress was too long and the sleeves were funky. I still love the color though!).

On to today…

When I first bought these grey skinny cords I thought I’d wear them all the time, then I got home and looked in my closet and couldn’t figure out what the heck to pair them with.

The grey threw me off a bit and I wasn’t sure what colors would work as tops so I would only wear them with white or black shirts.

I’ve finally decided that the grey is basically a neutral and can be paired with anything, so I decided to try this cranberry colored faux silk blouse. It’s loose, flowy, and very on trend right now. The loose fit of the top is a better look than the tight white shirt above right.

It’s a pretty simple outfit, not much to it, but I like the way it looks effortless and carefree (I can assure you it was anything but effortless- this took me about 45 minutes to come up with, it’s that bad. I guess it’s a bit like writers block, huh?

The loose top is balanced out with the skinny bottom. The necklace adds a final touch to show I put some effort into my look.

Pants: Banana Republic, Top: H&M, Shoes: DSW, Necklace: Forever 21

March 2nd, 10 Tips for Petite Gals

 In the past fews days I’ve received a few emails from readers who want to know how to dress to their particular body type.

It’s actually a great point- what looks good on one person does not always look good on another.

That is why it is so important to know your body type- and to find ways to flaunt what you got and work with what you don’t!

So today’s outfit is geared toward all you petite women!

By the way, being petite is defined by height not weight! If you are under 5’4″ you are petite!

The number one way for a short gal to look taller is to dress in all one color. Look at the picture on the right compared to the one on the left. Which one makes me look taller?

The one on the left does!  The uninterrupted black creates a long vertical line- which makes me look tall.

It’s hard to tell where my legs end and my middle begins. It also helps that I have on wedge heels (which is a must if you are tiny and want to look tall). To add one more vertical line I’ve added a necklace. This helps draw the eye  up and down (rather than side to side).

For another great example of dressing in all one color, check out this fabulous outfit from 100 Inspirations!

On the right I have on the same exact pants, but I’ve paired them with flats and a cream tank. The cream and the black are pretty together, but it breaks up the look- literally cutting me in half (or thirds actually) making me look shorter.

Here are 9 more tips for Petite women:

1. First and foremost- shop in the Petite section of the store. These items are cut and for women with shorter legs.

2. Avoid wide leg jeans, hip huggers, pedal pushers, capris and boot cut jeans.

3. Opt for straight leg jeans- hem to wear with heels

4. Keep clothes uncluttered as possible (lapels, buttons, prints, pockets, patterns… all should be small)

5. Don’t wear skirts that end right below the knee, or any that are too full or girly. No A Lines.

6. Try a maxi dress with a cropped cardigan or jacket. Wear with wedge heels. Pencil skirts (that end right at the knee) will also look great.

7. For jackets/ coats, avoid long ones (that end mid calf).  Look for one with an empire waist, or has a belt.  Be sure it has a simple neckline that will draw the eye upwards.  Avoid double breasted or anything with excess detail.

8. Sweaters- avoid bulky boyfriend style (too long), no chunky or heavy weaves, no cowl neck turtlenecks.  Stick to scoop neck with a hip length hem or something that is somewhat fitted and will end at your natural waistline.

9.  Shirts- go for simple here- something that cinches around (or above) your natural waist- not below it. Avoid horizontal stripes Wear a more voluminous top with a fitted bottom half.

Last but not least, don’t be afraid to have a ‘uniform’. If you find a style that works for your figure- it’s ok to wear a version of it everyday. Buy different color jackets or simple jewelry to change it up and add personality.

If you are petite and have some more suggestions/ advice, please send them in!

By the way, it’s Friday so I’m hooking up with Girlymama. Also, please take a second to vote for me by clicking the link below. I’ve slipped out of the top 1o! Yikes!

Sept 17th, Friday Night Lights

I actually really like this outfit- it may have just been a little dressy for football!

Scary lumberjack mom- stay away!

I’m actually posting my outfit from last night- this is what I wore to our local high school football game.

I have to admit though- I’m really struggling- I thought my outfit yesterday was great- then I went to work and saw so many people who were dressed so much better/ cuter/ more stylish than me. I felt stupid (who am I to have a style blog?) and I lost my confidence.

When I got home from work I tried to put together an outfit to wear to the high school game. The outfit on the right is seriously what I put together at first. Yikes! I look like a scary lumberjack. What was I thinking?

To make up for the lumberjack I went to the other extreme- sexy private eye. I paired my dark skinny jeans with a sleek black turtleneck, black boots and a cute houndstooth jacket. My primary goal was to not be cold, so I wanted something that was warm, stylish and would work at a football game. I actually really like this outfit, and I got several comments on how nice I looked- which I translated to ‘you are totally over-dressed for a football game’!

Sometimes do you ever feel like you can’t do anything right? Welcome to my world today!

This coat didn't come with a belt, but I added one to make it fit better. What do you think? Better with out without?

Coat: Brook’s Brothers, Jeans: Anthroplogie, Turtleneck: White House, Black Market, Boots: Frye’s, Necklace Forever 21