Beacon Style

Style Guide Inspiration For Your Summer!

I remember in high school learning to write succinctly. This was considered an important skill. It is a skill that I find incredibly valuable even today. Get to the point. Write a thesis statement. Make your case and then repeat your thesis statement. It was basic knowledge but took some practice and effort.  In the professional world today, I can’t even begin to tell you how many emails I receive that go round and round or on and on without getting to the point in the first few sentences. In the latest J.Crew Style Guide they are cutting out the excess and getting right to the point.

I’m use to a thicker, heavier J.Crew catalog. So, the one that arrived in my mailbox just a few days ago caught me by surprise. It is a total of 53 pages cover to cover. The front cover page features an off the shoulder dress in a bright pop of color (though you can only see the top part of the model behind a table so you might not realize right away that it’s the dress on page 27). Page 3 proceeds to indicate that the catalog will showcase 26 ways to “J.crew-ify” your summer. The next 26 items/looks offer an array of outfit ideas for your summer including accessories! The pages of this catalog offer fun pops of color and the mixing of prints to make one fantastic outfit. If you’ve been looking for inspiration in your wardrobe this catalog might have just what you need to start looking at your wardrobe in a whole new way!

I love what J.Crew has done with this Style Guide! Put the trends front and center and show your customer what they can do with what you have to offer – all while educating the reader on some J.Crew style terminology and offering style tips! If you haven’t seen this latest issue, be sure to pick one up in stores the next chance you get. Even if you choose not to shop J.Crew this summer, I promise this Style Guide will offer seasonal inspiration!

My Latest Finds

I've been looking for a couple of new jewelry pieces to add to my spring wardrobe. I wanted a new statement necklace and a bracelet. I had a hard time picking a necklace because of all the choices. I saw a lot of different options that I liked. Most of the necklaces I considered included stones in different colors. While I do like to incorporate color into my wardrobe, and I love a statement color piece, this time I wanted something a little more simple.

Here is the piece I decided on:

Banana Republic Embroidered Focal Necklace

Banana Republic Embroidered Focal Necklace

I love the simplicity and versatility of this piece. I've already worn it to work over a black sweater where it really stood out. I think I'll easily be able to put this in regular rotation this spring.

As for my bracelet search, I actually stumbled upon one that I loved pretty quick. I was looking for something other than a bangle (as I already have a few of these I love in a variety of colors). I wanted something different than what I already own and something that would stand out as unique.

I found this little gem at Nordstrom for a fantastic price! It comes in a variety of colors and it is adjustable to your wrist. They are easily stackable if you're interested in a layered look. This bracelet is both eye-catching and delicate. It goes with everything from weekend jeans to your business casual office. It's a perfect piece as your sleeves start to get shorter in the warmer weather!

gorjana Power Stone bracelet

gorjana Power Stone bracelet

If you're looking to add a little something new to your wardrobe this Spring, think about adding in new accessories. The right pieces can add sophistication and character to your outfit. Look for pieces that compliment your overall style. Those pieces will be the most versatile in your wardrobe.