Fashion

June 15, 2018

This is How to Make a Statement in a Casual Kimono Jacket

June 13, 2018

How to Style the Perfect White Pants for Summer

May 17, 2018

12 Beautiful Polka Dot Dresses for Summer to Get Spotted In

May 1, 2018

All You Need to Live a Chic Life Under One Roof at Civil Alchemy St. Louis

March 22, 2018

Beat the Spring Chill with these Beautiful Capes

March 15, 2018

How to Wear a Dress Over Jeans

March 9, 2018

How to Wear Cropped Wide Leg Pants in Winter

February 16, 2018

How to Look Polished yet Casual with the Right Blouse

January 25, 2018

Blush, Bells and Whistles

This is How to Make a Statement in a Casual Kimono Jacket

June 15, 2018 | Fashion 4 comments

I recently attended an influencer party at Soft Surroundings in St. Louis. We browsed the latest collection and this particular kimono topper was the apple of everyone’s eyes. The casual cut, vibrant florals, and flattering silhouette stood out. I love a casual kimono jacket because it’s probably the easiest item to style — just add a cami, jeans, and sandals and you’re good to go. It’s the easiest 5 minute outfit and the kimono makes a statement all on its own.

Kimono: c/o Soft Surroundings / Camisole: Banana Republic / Jeans: Articles of Society / Sandals: c/o Soft Surroundings (similar) / Bag: Cult Gaia / Earrings: c/o Soft Surroundings (similar)

The Casual Kimono Jacket – Shop these Summer Styles

If I could have a closet full of kimonos for the summer, I’d be perfectly happy with that. Here are some of my favorite styles starting around $30. Colorful, printed, and lightweight — these casual kimono jackets are the perfect summer toppers.

How to Style the Perfect White Pants for Summer

June 13, 2018 | Fashion 4 comments

Today I’m mixing it up with a little pattern play. Where else can you see koi swimming around in a striped pond? If you know me, you know I love mixed prints and patterned pieces. But usually when I’m going party on top, I like to keep it business on the bottom to balance the look out. I’ve chosen these chic Tencel trousers from Soft Surroundings, which are the perfect white pants for summer.

Here’s a laid back summer outfit idea that will take you from work to the weekend.

How to Style the Perfect White Pants for Summer

Blouse: c/o Soft Surroundings / Pants: c/o Soft Surroundings / Sandals: c/o Soft Surroundings (similar) / Sunglasses: c/o Express / Crossbody bag: Rebecca Minkoff (similar)

This top is a fun addition to your classic shirt collection. Flowing pants give the overall look a soft, professional silhouette. In particular, I prefer wearing this top with the Islamorada pants, which have a comfortable and loose fit, unlike white jeans which often bunch up and emphasize everything. They’re the perfect white pants for summer!

If fish aren’t your thing, here are some of my favorite polka dot and striped styles for summer.

12 Beautiful Polka Dot Dresses for Summer to Get Spotted In

May 17, 2018 | Fashion 7 comments

Move over florals. Polka dots are popular this spring. Whether you’re drawn to classic black and white dots, something more colorful, or mixed prints, I’m sharing 12 beautiful polka dot dresses for summer.

Dress: c/o Boden / Bag: c/o Boden / Sandals: c/o Boden / Earrings: Target (similar)

The beautiful blue hue of this particular dress from Boden caught my eye. Ruffle trim and a sash tied waist add elegant details to this adorable summer style. Pops of pink complete the look for a beautiful color contrast.

12 Beautiful Polka Dot Dresses for Summer

These are some of my favorite polka dot dresses for summer. Mix it up with lace hems, ribbon belts, ruffle collars, or even tiered skirts for a more whimsical look. You know you’ll want to wear these dresses on repeat for the rest of the season.

All You Need to Live a Chic Life Under One Roof at Civil Alchemy St. Louis

May 1, 2018 | Decor 6 comments

Usually when I’m looking for everything under the sun, I go to a department store or Target. But why always go there when you can visit Civil Alchemy St. Louis? Described as a place for “functional, quality, and inspired goods,” Civil Alchemy hand selects its products from local vendors as well as places you’d wish you found on your own.

This modern general store curates pretty items including everything from apparel, accessories, housewares, specialty food, furniture and more. I stopped by Civil Alchemy initially to check out its popular flower bar, but left with an appreciation for a store full of surprises.

Coat: Banana Republic (similar) / Dress: Stylekeepers / Sunglasses: Quay / Earrings: Baublebar / Purse: Zac by Zac Posen / Shoes: Zara (similar)

Inside Civil Alchemy St. Louis

When you walk into Civil Alchemy, the selection doesn’t overwhelm you, but is warm and inviting. The space certainly lives up to its description as a modern general store. When I think of a general store, I imagine an old timey one stop shop like the one from Dr. Quinn Medicine Woman. But this one is more thoughtful in its selection.

There are corners for colorful rain gear, bedding, minimalist apparel, jewelry, hats, pottery, and men’s grooming. On the other side of the store, there is a DIY flower bar that is refreshed weekly, perfect for throwing together a clever arrangement for your next dinner party. Step into the next room and you’ll find cute household cleaning items, chic dinnerware and bakeware, gourmet chocolates and jams, candles, and cute hostess gifts.

I certainly had fun looking around. I love to touch, smell, and try things as a shopper. That means I tested a few hats, smelled a bunch of candles, enjoyed bites of free chocolate, ogled about a hundred sparkly earrings and necklaces, and dug around in the flower bins.

In need of a cute white shirt? They’ve got plenty.

If you’re looking for a fresh new shopping option for all things pretty, stop by Civil Alchemy St. Louis. The DIY flower bar alone is worth a trip. Plus they have regular events for flower arranging in store. There’s something about creating gorgeous things that fill the soul.

Looking for other cute places to visit in St. Louis? Don’t forget check out some of my favorite local eateries for fried chicken and fancy toast.

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Beat the Spring Chill with these Beautiful Capes

March 22, 2018 | Fashion 14 comments

The first day of spring has come and gone, but for many of us it still feels like winter. All over Instagram, we’re popping out florals and bright colors in the hope that we’ll channel warmer weather. Here in St. Louis, it’s quite gloomy with rain and wind in the forecast for the next week. To stay comfortable in this transitional weather, I’m turning to capes — women’s cape coats, cape jackets, and cape sweaters that is.

Cape: Draper James / Turtleneck: Banana Republic (similar) / Pants: J.Crew (similar) / Loafers: na-kd (similar) / Clutch: c/o Express (similar)

This style is universally flattering, especially because it hides the worst offender— the muffin top. Plus the sleeves give you plenty of air conditioning in case it suddenly gets warm. So it’s perfect for transitional style in this weather.

Capes to Try

Here are a few great capes to try. Since capes are always in fashion, these classic styles will work for you season after season. Plus they’re great for the office, in case the air conditioning is on full blast.

Stay warm and let’s hope for signs of spring soon! For more cape style check out this gorgeous striped look.

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How to Wear a Dress Over Jeans

March 15, 2018 | Fashion 23 comments

It’s that time when spring catalogues and mall displays rub your nose in warm weather fashions. You want to wear them right away, but it seems too cold to even consider. Here’s where transitional spring style works its magic. The dress over skinny jeans is one of my favorite ways to look cute and warm at the same time. It’s also a great way to dress down your look and gain some street style cred. So go ahead and show off how to wear a dress over jeans.

Dress: Free People / Jeans: c/o Boden / Booties: c/o Naturalizer / Clutch: c/o Express (similar)

Dresses Over Jeans

Here are some fabulous options for the dress over jeans trend:

I actually rock this trend year round. Plus a dress over skinny jeans is perfect for more modest fashionistas. If there’s ever a dress that I don’t feel comfortable in on its own, adding a pair of jeans is my secret weapon. I like a cropped, ankle length, or rolled up jean. But don’t be afraid of a pair of flares underneath with the right dress.

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How to Wear Cropped Wide Leg Pants in Winter

March 9, 2018 | Fashion 11 comments

Cropped pants in the winter? Yes! It can be done. If you want to show a little leg without freezing, this is the perfect option. Figuring out how to wear cropped wide leg pants in winter (or spring) is easy with some simple styling tricks.

Choosing the right footwear is key — usually an ankle boot or a pair of kicks does the trick. On top, a cropped sweater or a fitted blouse looks great, especially when your pants have a high rise. Here I’ve styled a pair of plaid trousers with my favorite pointy ankle boots and a cropped cream sweater. Scroll through for more fabulous ways to try this look.

How to Wear Cropped Wide Leg Pants in Winter

Sweater: Banana Republic (similar) / Pants: Paper Crown / Ankle Boots: Marc Fisher (similar) / Necklace: c/o Joya

I’ve broken down how to style this look into 3 simple steps with options for each. Follow along and choose your favorite combination!

1) Cropped Sweater

2) Cropped Wide Leg Pants

3) Ankle Boots/Kicks

Love these plaid pants? For more plaid inspiration, here’s some fabulous options.
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How to Look Polished yet Casual with the Right Blouse

February 16, 2018 | Fashion 19 comments

Everyday when we open our closet, we secretly hope the perfect outfit will instantly reveal itself. How to look polished on the regular is a daily struggle. My tip is to focus on one piece like statement heels or a gorgeous blouse and style from there.

For example, a polished blouse should have the right feel, be wrinkle free, and make me feel a little extra special. Recently I wore this adorable bouquet printed blouse with ruffles, which instantly elevated my look.

If I had a closet full of blouses like this, looking polished on a daily basis would be a cinch.

How to Look Polished yet Casual with the Right Blouse

Blouse: Ann Taylor / Jeans: Articles of Society (similar) / Shoes: Shoptiques (similar) / Purse: c/o Boden (similar) / Earrings: Target (similar)

Blouses to Look Polished yet Casual

If you’re wondering how to look polished whether you’re headed to work, out for the weekend, or both, here are some great blouse options:

10 More Ways to Look and Feel Polished

Some women seem like they always look put together. Most likely there are a few rules that they don’t compromise on.

Even if it’s a challenge to get yourself out the door, why not create your own rules to live by? When you give yourself structure, you are less likely to waste time on random stuff. Eventually these tips will become second nature and you’ll notice an overall improvement in your appearance. (If you’re looking for ways to improve on the inside, here’s a great post on how to declutter your mind.)

These are some of my tips for how to look polished everyday:

Soft Lips: Always make sure your lips are buffed, smooth, and coated with a pretty color. I have a bad habit of biting my lip so I use a lip scrub daily. I love the lip scrubs at Lush and this one too.
Maintain Your Manicure: One of the most obvious ways to look disheveled is when your manicure is far from fresh. To make chips less obvious between appointments, try nude or pale pink shades. I love this option.
Stay Shine Free: Remember to carry blotting papers for a mid-day shine check. These are the ones I carry in my purse.
Hide Behind Your Sunnies: Keep your favorite pair of sunglasses in your purse in case you need to cover up the effects of a crazy night out.
Eyebrows Always on Point: I don’t feel like myself when my eyebrows have gone rogue. Schedule a standing appointment for your eyebrows every two weeks so you never have to worry about stray hairs or making sure your preferred stylist is available.
Keep the Grays at Bay: Ensure you’ve always got a box of your favorite hair dye stocked at home for when your grays reemerge. This is my favorite hair dye for root touch ups.
Frizz is a Daily Battle: Determine the best product to tame flyaways, smooth frizz, or define curl for your hair type and keep a travel size option in your purse for a windy day. I’ve been using this for the little wispies at my crown.
Raccoon Eyes: If you’ve got dark circles, find a good under eye concealer and highlighter for color coverage and brightening. This one really brightens my eyes.
Mask on Sundays: Set aside Sunday for some beauty pampering. A weekly mask like this one is a great way to keep up regular exfoliation, skin brightening, and purging for your face.
Confidence Always: Confidence is essential to looking polished. When I look my best, I feel my best. I’ve shared why wearing yellow is one of my favorite mood boosters. What’s yours?

What are some of your favorite ways to maintain a polished look? I loved to know.

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Blush, Bells and Whistles

January 25, 2018 | Fashion 12 comments

My current shopping obsession is the statement sweater – the ones with an extra twist that keep you cozy and cute throughout the cold winter months. I’m torn between classic pieces that can be worn year to year, like this bell sleeve grey sweater below, and more whimsical styles that grab your attention.

Banana Republic Superloft Bell Sleeve Boat Neck Top

Sweater: Banana Republic / Jeans: Banana Republic (similar) / Shoes: Na-kd (similar) / Crossbody: Rebecca Minkoff (similar) / Collar: Topshop (similar) / Sunglasses: Quay Australia