Summer 2019

Make it a Quality Investment

After I graduated college and stared working, I began to appreciate the quality of the clothing that I purchased. I began to realize that a more quality item would last longer. A higher quality item won’t fade in color, keeps it shape, looks the same after multiple cleanings and may flatter you more based on proper fit. These types of items that come at a higher price tag are often referred to as “investment items”.

Does your wardrobe contain real investment items? These would be high quality pieces that last multiple seasons. Depending on your lifestyle, an investment piece could be casual, formal, or somewhere in between. The idea behind purchasing this type of piece is that it becomes a staple in your wardrobe. Maybe it’s your “go to” dress. Or perhaps it’s your favorite pair of jeans.

For me, I prefer to splurge on a statement piece. Whether it’s an accessory, a dress, or a shoe, I’m willing to spend a little extra on a piece that I know will be a go to in my closet. Most recently I purchased this dress for my cousin’s wedding which appeared in my previous blog post. This dress is a perfect summer staple. Not an everyday dress but rather an occasion piece. Not overly dressy such that it couldn’t be worn to a number of occasions. Versatility is key. The navy color of this dress is a perfect neutral and its style is figure flattering.

Keep in mind that just because an investment item is priced a bit higher, doesn’t mean that you have to pay sky high prices. All retailers have coupons and discounts throughout the year. Many high end retailers have outlet stores that carry many of the same labels as their more expensive counterpart. If you find a high end “investment” item that you love, shop around to find the best deal!

 
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Derek Lam 10 Crosby One Shoulder Dress

Derek Lam 10 Crosby One Shoulder Dress


Fun for the Summer... Accessories for the Season!

It’s the beginning of August and it feels like summer is flying by all too quick. Instead of allowing ourselves to be depressed by all the “Back to School” signs, let’s focus on creating our best summer look! With retail tending toward fall, what’s the best way to do that? Let’s focus on accessories.

Do you have jewelry that matches your summer mood? This might be anything that incorporates shells, freshwater pearls, neon color or just white! If you’re looking to put a little more “summer” in your outfit, try to add summer accessories! Let’s focus on earrings for a start.

Whether you prefer something more subtle or a big statement piece, there is something for everyone in the assortment below. A little sparkle or a little color can speak volumes and change a look. Any outfit can be influenced with the right earring.

This past weekend I attended my cousin’s wedding in a navy dress and these adorable turquoise shell earrings. These earrings were the perfect complement to my outfit and a great summer touch for an outdoor wedding! (Oh and my handsome husband make a great accessory too!)

So if you’re in the market for new earrings to get you through the summer (and maybe an upcoming vacation) take a look at a few of the options highlighted below! Happy Shopping!

 
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Shashi Ocean Drive Earrings

Shashi Ocean Drive Earrings

BaubleBar Kailua Drop Earrings

BaubleBar Kailua Drop Earrings

BaubleBar Fiji Drop Earrings

BaubleBar Fiji Drop Earrings

BaubleBar Tahiti Tassel Earrings

BaubleBar Tahiti Tassel Earrings

Alison Lou Neon Medium Jelly Hoops

Alison Lou Neon Medium Jelly Hoops

NST Studio Earth Tone Drop Earrings

NST Studio Earth Tone Drop Earrings

Nicola Bathie Jewelry Flower Lily Pad Drop Earrings

Nicola Bathie Jewelry Flower Lily Pad Drop Earrings

Lizzie Fortunato Venice Earrings

Lizzie Fortunato Venice Earrings

Shashi Princess Kairo Earrings

Shashi Princess Kairo Earrings

 

Styles to help keep you cool when temps are on the rise

We’ve been experiencing some very hot weather in the Northeast. Last weekend was scorching hot with temps up to 100! Not mention just how muggy it has been. Ideal conditions would allow you to stay home on days like this. But let’s get real… we all have lives to live… jobs, kids, errands, events….our plates are full and we need to get on with life, even in the heat. So what do you wear to live your life in this challenging weather trend?

We need to find ways to stay cool, ladies. I’m all for the maxi dresses but let’s be honest, it can get hot under there. If you’re going to go with maxi or midi length dresses or skirts, keep your fabrics light and breathable. This means stick to cotton or linen. Light colors are also preferable. Black tends to absorb heat. Eyelet is a popular summer trend and a great way to keep cool.

These fabric and color tips are applicable across the board. Lightweight fabrics and light colors are preferable in all your hot weather choices. I think this is why white is so popular in the summer. Not to mention how great it looks with your tan. Then again, white doesn’t flatter every skin tone. Light gray, shades of tan or peach and even a pastel pink will go a long way in your summer wardrobe.

Besides those maxi styles, what should you wear? Wide leg linen pants or crops will work if you want to keep it long. If you’re ready to go short, the infamous sundress can be your go to. Rompers are on trend and come in a variety of styles included strapless, halter, and one shoulder. And finally, feel free to pull on those trusty pair of shorts.

I’ve never been a big fan of the way I look in shorts. Last year we took my kids to Disney World for the first time. I quickly realized the only way to get around Disney in the heat and not completely lose my mind was going to be to wear shorts. So I purchase a bunch of different styles and started trying them on. I am happy to say that shorts have come a long way. From your old school chino shorts to cut off jean shorts and even fancy scalloped linen shorts, there are a lot of choices out there. Still not sold? Or maybe unsure what will look good on you? Time to try them on! That’s the best way to figure out what looks good.

So, if you’re staring at your closet in the morning trying to figure out how to keep cool…. Time to take these tips and start shopping!

H&M Eyelet Embroidered Dress

H&M Eyelet Embroidered Dress

J. Crew Ruffle Deep V-neck Beach Dress

J. Crew Ruffle Deep V-neck Beach Dress

J. Crew Spaghetti Strap Jumpsuit

J. Crew Spaghetti Strap Jumpsuit

H&M Cotton Dress with Embroidery

H&M Cotton Dress with Embroidery

J. Crew High Rise Triple button stretch linen short

J. Crew High Rise Triple button stretch linen short

J. Crew Border Eyelet Dress

J. Crew Border Eyelet Dress

H&M Cotton Butterfly-sleeved Dress

H&M Cotton Butterfly-sleeved Dress

J.Crew 4 in Linen Cotton Scalloped Hem Short

J.Crew 4 in Linen Cotton Scalloped Hem Short