Pencil Skirt POW: Trendy, Elegant, and all Choked up Date Night

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Outfit Mission Statement: Look good coming and going in a classic, feminine pencil skirt and a trendy, elegant lace back blouse

Friday Night Drinks POW outfits are for going out on a date, getting drinks, seeing a band play, going to dinner and a movie—something where you want to look good and may wear some sexier clothes and statement pieces. The POW (Piece of the Week) is the pencil skirt in general, and the cabi Fall 2016 Sigourney skirt in particular. The pencil skirt is a perfect date night option. It’s sexy, chic, classic, and feminine all in one. Given the power of the pencil skirt, you have a lot of options to finish the date night look, from a tee shirt to an elegant silk blouse. In fact, you can even wear flannel and look hot! Here I went with a trendy, yet elegant option—lace back blouses. I love this look because it is clean and simple in front, but has the surprise of lace and a bit of skin in back. You look good coming and going! Since it is the transitional time of year where some still have winter and some spring, I am showing a colder weather version and a warmer weather one. They both are a similar look—turquoise or green pencil skirt and a lace back blouse. I went with black, boots, and a choker for the colder weather look and white with green heels for the spring look. Of course, with the right shoes/boots either can work for any time of the year.

for cooler temps

for cooler temps

for warmer temps

for warmer temps

Tips:

  • For a trendy and sexy, yet elegant date night look pair the on-trend lace back tops with a pencil skirt
  • If you want to show some skin, but don’t want to be too revealing, the lace back top is a fabulous choice
  • If you wear a lace back top, think of other ways to draw attention to your back—such as a lovely updo and a statement hair pin
  • Consider a neutral top color when rocking a bold pencil skirt and a lace back to draw attention to the lace and the skirt
  • If you tuck your top into your pencil skirt and blouse it, you’ll draw attention to your waist and create more of an hourglass look
  • If you leave your top untucked, you'll create a longer torso  and hide tummy issues
  • Chokers add a dash of Victorian and a pinch of sex appeal—don’t be afraid of this trend, anyone can rock it:
    • If you have looser neck skin or a larger neck:
      • Go for a wider choker in a lace or something with varying edges, which will hide issues and be more forgiving
      • Wear it looser and lower, almost at collar level for the same look without the feeling of having something tight around your neck or creating bulges; this also works better if you have sagging skin
    • If you have a double chin or a little extra right there, go lower rather than higher to not add to this—I tend to go just under halfway or lower
    • Think about what you want to emphasize—lower will draw eyes to your collar bone, shoulders, and chest, whereas higher will emphasize your face more
    • Layer! Chokers work wonderfully with almost any length necklace, other chokers, or even a scarf
    • For a more cohesive and possibly monochromatic look match the color and material with something in your outfit (like black lace)
    • Not sure? Go for a thin one and wear it at your collar like a very short necklace, then work your way up and bigger as you feel comfortable
    • The more bare skin around the choker the more it will stand out and draw attention to that bare skin, so for greater sex appeal consider deeper cut neck lines, cold shoulder, and off-the-shoulder tops, and even put your hair up (if it is longer). To tone down the sex appeal, have your choker peak out of a button down or other shirt that does not show much skin.
    • A longer neck can rock any width of choker
    • A shorter neck may want to go with narrower chokers worn lower, which will add length—a thicker choker at mid neck will likely make your neck look shorter

Outfits:

Sigourney Skirt Outfit:

  • Skirt: Sigourney Skirt from cabi Fall 2016, which is no longer readily available. See my introductory POW post for ways to get this skirt, turquoise alternatives, or other pencil skirts
  • Blouse: Tempest Blouse from cabi Fall 2016, which is no longer readily available. Check out the same cabi options in my introductory POW post)
  • Boots: Unnati boots from JustFab (use my referral code to save money) 
  • Clutch: Old clutch, unsure of brand
  • Choker: Lace choker from JustFab, that is no longer available—consider the Laser Cut N Strut instead (use my referral code to save money)
  • Hair pin: Starburst hair pin from Lilla Rose, which is not available now, but there are many other options (I worked with Abby McElroy and she was very helpful)
  • Earrings: older gifts
 

White Blouse Outfit:

 

 

 

Related Posts:

  1. Plaid POW: Date Night Flannel Heat Posted February 26, 2016: Don’t rule out a flannel shirt for a sexy date outfit—just add other pieces with plenty of sex appeal
  2. Plume POW: Touch of 70s Date Night Posted April 08, 2016: Reference your favorite style decade to add fun, glamour, and sex appeal to your night out looks
  3. Love POW: Just add Sparkles, Fur, and Beads to make it Sunday Best Posted February 07, 2016: Take a pretty blouse and a neutral pencil skirt and turn it into a sophisticated special occasion outfit with fur, sparkles, beads, and mixing a single metal

Or check out the other date night POWs for more inspiration for a fabulous date (outfit).

Beyond POW: Fiery Femme Fatale Date Night

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Outfit Mission Statement: For a bold, eye-catching femme Fatale look, combine red and with curve hugging black

Friday Night Drinks POW outfits are for going out on a date, getting drinks, seeing a band play, going to dinner and a movie—something where you want to look good and may wear some sexier clothes and statement pieces. The POW (Piece of the Week) is the cabi Fall 2016 Beyond Tee.

Red and black are often the sexist colors. We have the LBD, the Jessica Rabbit red dress, and of course the long history or red or black lingerie. Combining them makes for one smoking hot date look, even when you are not showing a lot of skin.  It’s an easy, eye-catching combination that will make you feel sexy. This combination also works well for holidays like Christmas and Valentine’s Day! With such high-impact colors, you do not need to wear loud accessories or jewelry.  You are the statement piece!

 

Beyond Tee Styling Technique: Sexy Side Wrap

To rock the “Sexy Side Wrap” technique:

  1. Put it on the normal way, with the tag in back for a lower and more date-ready neckline
  2. Tuck the bottom of the tunic part of the tee shirt (not the panels) into your skirt
  3. Choose the side you want the tie and ends to be, it is best to do it on the side of the panel that overlaps on top of the two panels (left side)
  4. Take the panel on the opposite side (right side) and pull is diagonally across the front of your body to the opposite hip
  5. Take the panel on the knot side (right, and keeping it on top of the other panel), wrap it diagonally across your chest to the left hip
  6. Once it is at your hip, gather it into more of a tie shape than a flat panel.
  7. Continue with the right panel, wrapping it around your hip and continuing to wrap it behind you, from your right hip to left hip.
  8. Gather both panels at the left hip and tie them, letting the ends drape down your side
 

Tips:

  • For a sexy, attention-grabbing look combine a fiery red with black
  • When wearing knockout colors, you can keep the accessories simple in neutrals and a single metal
  • Add a wrap or moto jacket on chiller days to keep the sexy but add the warmth
  • Don’t be afraid of wearing red, even if you have red hair. If you are not sure of the color near your face and hair, wear it as a skirt, pants, or even shoes!
  • Sexy colors and curve hugging pieces, such as the Beyond Tee in this “Sexy Side Wrap” technique, can make you a femme fatale without showing a lot of skin
  • Tie the Beyond Tee at your natural waste to best emphasize your curves
  • When wearing such a bold, sexy outfit, make sure you also wear your confidence—the colors and knowing you look awesome will help

 

Outfit Breakdown:

 

 

 

Related Posts:

For other sexy date night looks:

  1. Destructed White POW: Bare Shoulders, Strong & Sexy Date Night: For an ageless, sexy date night look, bare your shoulders (but feel free to keep everything else covered).
  2. Run Around POW: Sexy & Comfortable Date Night: Be the sexiest and most comfortable woman in the room by wearing a curve-hugging, flaw-hiding all-black outfit in a soft, comfortable fabric.
  3. Plaid POW: Date Night Flannel Heat: Don’t rule out a flannel shirt for a sexy date outfit—just add other pieces with plenty of sex appeal.

 

 

 

 

If you would like the Beyond Tee, contact your cabi stylist. If you do not have one, please contact me in the comments or via email, reach out to my stylist Joni Allen (via email or phone: 770 502-5243 [call or text]), Leigh Cheatwood-Harris (a friend’s stylist whom I have worked with also and can recommend: email and her site) or find a cabi stylist near you.

 

Pleated Star POW: Beachy Warrior Goddess Date Night

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Outfit Mission Statement: Mix tough with feminine and goddess accessories for a beachy warrior goddess date night look

Friday Night Drinks POW outfits are for going out on a date, getting drinks, seeing a band play, going to dinner and a movie—something where you want to look good and may wear some sexier clothes and statement pieces. The POW (Piece of the Week) is the Pleated Star Skirt from Canvas by Lands’ End. This is a fun way to dress down the skirt, for a funky date night look. Instead of taking the pretty, feminine flow of the skirt, and adding to it with other pretty and feminine things, I add strong, dark pieces for a bold, edgier look.  While this is a more summery outfit, you can get the same tough feel by adding a moto jacket over the muscle tee, which will also show off some crazy curves, and maybe switching out the sandals for some boots. Like some other date night outfits, this one is a fun mix of contrasts, while maintaining a feminine feel. This one is great for a seaside date of casual fine dining and a walk or the beach. But could work for anything where you want to be comfortable, and don’t need t be too casual or too dressy. I love the added touch of feminine strength with the Athena necklace. Not only does it go nicely with the gladiator-style sandals, but it adds to the tough and feminine feel of the outfit—perhaps Athena would wear this for a date?

 

Tips:

  • Dress down a pretty, feminine skirt with strong, dark pieces like a muscle tee and gladiator sandal for a warrior goddess tough & feminine date night look
  • Black adds sex appeal generally (thus the LBD), and especially in this outfit
  • Add toughness to an outfit with a muscle tee or other edgy tee or tank and gladiator-style sandals for warm weather or a moto jacket and moto boots for cooler weather (or some mix for fall!)
  • Tie longer tees/tanks at the waist to create more of an hourglass shape by emphasize the waist; it can also add flair and hide the belly
  • Accessorize with handmade jewelry for a one-of-a-kind look that likely supports small business or individuals
  • Wear a striking ring on your index or middle finger for a more striking and eye-catching look with attitude

Outfit Breakdown:

Interested in purchasing? If my post inspired you to buy the lovely Pleated Star Skirt from Canvas by Lands’ End or other items from Lands’ End, please consider using my referral link. I’ll get 25% off my next order and be very grateful! Let me know you used my referral link, and give you a shout out including links to your social media.

Photos taken by Bill Ruhsam Jr. at the King and Prince Resort.

 

Related Posts:

  1. Destructed White POW: Bare Shoulders, Strong & Sexy Date Night posted August 12, 2016: For an ageless, sexy date night look, bare your shoulders (but feel free to keep everything else covered).
  2. Plaid POW: Date Night Flannel Heat posted February 26, 2016: Don’t rule out a flannel shirt for a sexy date outfit—just add other pieces with plenty of sex appeal.
  3. Love POW: Spicy Sweet Friday Night Drinks posted February 05, 2016: Mix romantic pretty items with ripped denim and black leather for a look that is both sugar and spice and certainly nice.

 

Destructed White POW: Bare Shoulders, Strong & Sexy Date Night

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Outfit Mission Statement: For an ageless, sexy date night look, bare your shoulders (but feel free to keep everything else covered)

Friday Night Drinks POW outfits are for going out on a date, getting drinks, seeing a band play, going to dinner and a movie—something where you want to look good and may wear some sexier clothes and statement pieces. The POW (Piece of the Week) is the cabi Spring 2016 Destructed Slim Boyfriend jeans. If you have been fallowing this blog, you know I like to mix opposites—pretty with tough, fancy with casual. This is a bit of both of those.  We have the casual destructed jean that have the tough edge, with the pretty sleeveless, floaty, and sparkly blouse. This mix is particularly fun for date nights, when you can play with opposites for a sexy, on-trend look.

One nice thing about current trends is the shoulder. The shoulder had been given its time to show off. Halter tops, off-shoulder, cold shoulder, “x-factor,” and more bare the shoulder. Luckily, the shoulder is a body part that tends to look good for a wide range of ages and sizes. We all have sexy shoulders. So, our sexy shoulders are perfect for an on-trend, sexy date night. If you don’t like your upper arms, go with an off-shoulder or cold shoulder top that covers your areas of concern. One nice thing about bare shoulders is you can be otherwise covered up and still be sexy.

Tips:

  • Mix the edgy destructed jeans with a pretty, flowy blouse for a strong & feminine look
  • For a sexy, on-trend date night look bare those shoulders
    • But if you need some arm coverage, go with an off-shoulder cold shoulder tops that have coverage where you want it
  • Add playful touches, like an unexpected higher ponytail
  • Dress up your destructed boyfriend jeans with sparkles, beads, and a shiny clutch
  • For an easy, put together look, limit your pallet to two neutrals, one metal, and bold color (although feel free to add a red lip for sass)
  • Yes, roll those jeans to show off your awesome, sexy, sparkly shoes
  • If your shoulders are bare, go for long, dangly earrings to further emphasize those shoulders

 

Outfit Breakdown:

 

If you want the jeans, contact your cabi stylist ASAP! The season has closed, but she may still be able to help you with samples or access to the retired season pieces. If you do not have a stylist, please contact me in the comments or via email, reach out to my (Joni Allen via email or phone: 770 502-5243 [call or text]), or find a cabi stylist near you. Or, consider these alternatives:

 

Related Posts:

  1. Love POW: Spicy Sweet Friday Night Drinks posted February 05, 2016: Outfit Mission Statement: Mix romantic pretty items with ripped denim and black leather for a look that is both sugar and spice and certainly nice.
  2. Run Around POW: Simple Elegance Sunday Best posted April 24, 2016: For an elegant, sophisticated outfit that is easy and comfortable, pair your black skirt with a neutral silk and similar accessories.
  3. Go-To POW: Simple Affairs Date Night posted March 25, 2016: For a simple date night look, take your wardrobe essential black pants, add a romantic & sexy blouse along with a few accessories and you are good to go!

Or, check out my other Date Night Friday posts!

 

Bardot POW: Pretty Pockets and Boho Layers Date Night

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Outfit Mission Statement: For an easy date night outfit for summer theater or other dates where temperature may change, choose a pretty sundress & a denim shirt as a fun, curve-enhancing layer

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Friday Night Drinks POW outfits are for going out on a date, getting drinks, seeing a band play, going to dinner and a movie—something where you want to look good and may wear some sexier clothes and statement pieces. The POW (Piece of the Week) is the cabi Spring 2016 Bardot Shirt. My Friday plans are theater in the park, and this is a great outfit for it. A nice pretty dress, with a fun boho denim top for warmth once the sun sets. The denim shirt also give a waist and curves to an otherwise straighter dress, adding sex appeal white covering up more! This is an easy date night outfit—take a sundress, add a denim shirt, and accessorize. Done! Just grab the tickets, the picnic basket (don’t forget that corkscrew), and go!

 

Tips:

  • Thinks easy layers when date night is outside in the evening (or in a cool restaurant)
  • Add curves to a sundress without them by tying a denim or other shirt around the waist—like this (wear the shirt and tie it) or not wearing it (except tied around your waist)
  • Pockets! Find dresses with pockets! They are the best (hint, cabi has this dress and another with pockets this season!)
  • For easy style, choose the “transformer” necklaces that can be multiple pieces of jewelry as you take parts of it off—then you don’t have to find separate pieces to go with your outfit (my bracelet and necklace are the same transformer necklace)
    • Don’t be afraid to find new ways to transform the necklace either—this asymmetrical style is not one of the advertised ways of wearing it, but it is my favorite
  • Got sundress that doesn’t work for you? Try wearing it different ways, such as with a denim shirt tied at the waist—I wasn’t a big fan of this dress on me until I wore it like this

 Outfit Breakdown:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Related Posts:

  1. Margherita POW: Simple Sundress Date Night posted May 20, 2016. Go simple and easy and knock your date’s socks off!
  2. Run Around POW: Sexy & Comfortable Date Night posted April 29, 2016. Be the sexiest and most comfortable woman in the room by wearing a curve-hugging, flaw-hiding all-black outfit in a soft, comfortable fabric.
  3. Bardot POW: Ponte and Knotted Manic Monday posted June 06, 201. For a comfortable, professional Monday outfit, dress up your denim shirt with a navy ponte pencil skirt

Plus, check out the other Date Night Friday posts.

Margherita POW: Simple Sundress Date Night

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Margherita POW: Simple Sundress Date Night

Outfit Mission Statement: Go simple and easy and knock your date’s socks off!

 

Friday Night Drinks POW outfits are for going out on a date, getting drinks, seeing a band play, going to dinner and a movie—something where you want to look good and may wear some sexier clothes and statement pieces. The POW (Piece of the Week) is the cabi Spring 2016 Margherita Dress. I’m showing you seven ways to style a sundress. This naturally should include the styling the sundress itself. And as many a date will tell you, a sundress is perfect for date night (or date day—any date time). This is as simple at it gets for a date—sundress, shoes, jewelry, maybe some makeup, with your hair down and flowing if it is long. Running late? Trying to juggle getting ready, keeping the kids calm, and instructing the babysitter? This is perfect! Going from work to night out? Choose of on the work styles with this sundress (Working It Buttoned-Down Flowy Wednesday or Easy Professionalism Manic Monday) and you can make a quick transition from day to night!

Tips:

 

Read More

Run Around POW: Sexy & Comfortable Date Night

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Outfit Mission Statement: Be the sexiest and most comfortable woman in the room by wearing a curve-hugging, flaw-hiding all-black outfit in a soft, comfortable fabric

Friday Night Drinks POW outfits are for going out on a date, getting drinks, seeing a band play, going to dinner and a movie—something where you want to look good and may wear some sexier clothes and statement pieces. The POW (Piece of the Week) is the cabi Spring 2016 Run Around Skirt. I’ve mentioned before that this skirt is sexy, right? Well, this skirts is very sexy. It is perfect for a date night. You can make a sexy date night outfit by simply pairing it with a pretty blouse or top. The Tivoli Top and the Vita Blouse would work to make funky or pretty date night looks that are also very sexy. I’ll let you play around with the blouse and skirt combo. Instead, let me suggest something that is even more comfortable and even sexier. Try the skirt's sister garment—theblack Gathered Tee. An all-black outfit also exudes sex appeal. That’s why the little black dress exists. It’s striking, strong, and confident. Any cute or sexy black top could work with the Run Around Skirt for a hot all-black look. But, make the items body hugging (in all the right ways) with drapes, gathers, and layers, and you have quite the hot look. While you will be the sexiest woman in the room, you will probably also be the most comfortable. After all these is a tee shirt and skirt made of the wonderfully soft and stretchy Lenzing fabric. You think your tee shirt if comfortable? Comparatively, it is not. Trust me.

With these two pieces, you really don’t need to do much else. Sure add pair of sexy heals and some nice accessories, and maybe a striking red lip to the finish this look.  But you could wear some nice sandals and also call it done.

 

Tips:

  • You can create slender and long illusion by dressing in a single color—black, body hugging clothes make you look even more slender, while also emphasizing curves (curvy and slender? What more do you want?)
  • Keep in mind you can be sexy and comfortable, if you choose soft fabrics that move with you, such as Lenzing (if you are not comfortable, you are probably not sexy)
  • You do not have to show a lot of skin to be sexy—this outfit is rather modest, but the color and fit are what makes it look sexy and your attitude can help!
  • If youwear two similar items (fabric and color) you can create the illusion of a dress, which seems dressier
  • When wearing such a knockout outfit you can go subtle with the accessories or you can push it even more—such as wearing sexy shoes, a stunning necklace, and a red lip
  • Are you a mom who feels guilty going out and leaving her kid(s) behind? Bring a reminder of your dears with you, such as this amazing ring by Solid Treasures which I had stamped with my son’s name. It’s a nice reminder that always makes me smile, and somehow that helps any guilt (and a guilty mom is not very sexy, nor is she having a good time)
  • Worried about problem areas? Garments that have gathering, ruching, draping, or other features in the problem are should "hide" the problems in elegant ways

 

Outfit Breakdown:

I LOVE this shot!!! So, you get to see it big.

I LOVE this shot!!! So, you get to see it big.

Plume POW: Touch of 70s Date Night

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Outfit Mission Statement: Reference your favorite style decade to add fun, glamour, and sex appeal to your night out looks

Friday Night Drinks POW outfits are for going out on a date, getting drinks, seeing a band play, going to dinner and a movie—something where you want to look good and may wear some sexier clothes and statement pieces. The POW (Piece of the Week) is the cabi Spring 2016 Plume Top. My Working It Wednesday Outfit has a bit of a 60s vibe this week and I gave this one just a touch of a 70s disco vibe with the hair and long earrings and colors. This contrasts the femininity of the feather design and colors of the top and the lace of the skirt, creating a funky and feminine look. While this may not scream 70s disco style, even the contrasts, femininity, and funky aspects are all true to disco, making this a modern interpretation of disco style! Even if you choose to leave off the disco vibe, a pretty top and lovely lace pencil skirt always make for an easy and sexy date style. The Plume Top’s easy flow emphasize ease and comfort, while the skirt adds the sex appeal and emphasizes the feminine. Add some sexy d’Orsay styled shoes and some bling and you are ready for a great night out.

 

Tips:

  • Do not be afraid of mixing lace with prints
  • You can create a fairly modest, but still sexy, look by wearing a pencil skirt—it shows shape but not skin
  • Pencil skirts are great choices for all shapes, as they work with your natural curves and can make larger hips and thighs look more proportional
  • Looks for ways to style date night outfits with touches from your favorite style decade—they all can add fun, glamour, and sexy to your date night looks
  • Consider long earrings for a date night looks, as they draw attention to your neck and can show a playful and/or glamorous side
  • When going with bold colors for your clothing, you may want to keep your accessories more mild

 

Outfit Breakdown:

 
 

Go-To POW: Simple Affairs Date Night

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Outfit Mission Statement: For a simple date night look, take your wardrobe essential black pants, add a romantic & sexy blouse along with a few accessories and you are good to go!

Friday Night Drinks POW outfits are for going out on a date, getting drinks, seeing a band play, going to dinner and a movie—something where you want to look good and may wear some sexier clothes and statement pieces. The POW (Piece of the Week) is the cabi Spring 2016 Go-To Trouser. Sometimes the perfect look for a date night is simple. Take a pair of black pants, add a romantic & sexy blouse, then some jewelry, neutral shoes, a clutch, and you are done. This outfit is one example of why you need a pair of black pants—why these are wardrobe essentials. They work wonderfully for work, of course, but they can also be wonderful for a date. With the right blouse to balance out the practical, business feel of these pants, you can create a classic, simple, and sexy go-to date night outfit. Look for a blouse with feminine and sexy details to balance the pants and look great on your date or night out.

 

Tips:

  • Look good coming and going by finding a blouse with some detail on the back, such as this cutout
  • To keep it simple with unassuming and delicate jewelry and neutral sandals
  • To make it date-ready, look for a blouse with some color and avoid unadorned neutrals
  • Balance the business of the black pants with feminine and/or sexy details like a draped neck; feminine print; sheer, flowy fabric; pretty colors; and/or a striking cutout in the back
  • Remember, all you need for a stunning & simple date night look is a feminine blouse and your wardrobe essential black pants, and basic accessories—sometimes less and simple is more

 

Outfit Breakdown:

 

Michelle POW: Date Night Aflutter

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Outfit Mission Statement: Mix a cardigan with flirty and romantic pieces to set hearts aflutter

Friday Night Drinks POW outfits are for going out on a date, getting drinks, seeing a band play, going to dinner and a movie—something where you want to look good and may wear some sexier clothes and statement pieces. The POW (Piece of the Week) is the cabi Spring 2016 Michelle Cardigan. There are many ways one could style this for a date. I went sweet and romantic. Skirts are always good for dates, as they give you a chance to show off your legs. Guys seem to like this. Gals seem to like it too. The flounces on this skirt are both fun and flirty. They also mimic the flouncy chiffon trim in the back of the cardigan, creating some nice continuity. The flounces and the chiffon add a romantic air to the outfit, which is supported with the locket necklace and charm jewelry, resulting in a romantic and flirty outfit for having a date or finding one.

 

Tips:

  • Cardigans make wonderful layers over cute date outfits, especially if you need a layer of warmth or have a cute cami or tank and you don’t want your bra straps to show
  • Look for skirts that have ruffles, flounces, or other romantic and flirty features for date night outfits
  • For some classic romance, add an antique style locket, like the one here—even better if it is a functioning locket with a picture of your love or a lock of hair (this locket is function. I will soon have pictures in it)
  • When wearing a navy (or other neutral) cardigan for a date night, pair it with a colorful skirt to keep a playful air

 

Outfit Breakdown:


Plaid POW: Date Night Flannel Heat

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Outfit Mission Statement: Don’t rule out a flannel shirt for a sexy date outfit—just add other pieces with plenty of sex appeal

Friday Night Drinks POW outfits are for going out on a date, getting drinks, seeing a band play, going to dinner and a movie—something where you want to look good and may wear some sexier clothes and statement pieces. The POW (Piece of the Week) is the L.L. Bean Slightly Fitted Scotch Plaid Shirt in Deep Evergreen Tartan. Yes, flannel can be sexy, see? My husband loved this outfit. The secret is to mix the flannel with other sexy pieces, for an overall sexy look. The faux leather pencil skirt adds both edge and sex appeal. I layered the flannel over a cami that has a mesh trim for more edge and sex appeal, while remaining fairly modest. Then, I added the ankle strap heels to continue the trend. The statement necklace draws attention to the open shirt and cami, attracting the eye to the skin. I added a shiny clutch and some sparkly earrings to polish it off. Overall, this is a sexy, edgy look that is still modest and even cozy.

 

Tips:

  • Think outside the box for date night outfits, consider flannel shirts and other items that can be mixed into fabulous date outfits
  • Mix pieces that may come across as plain and not remotely sexy with pieces with high sex appeal for an overall sexy look
  • When working with thicker layers like flannel and faux leather, consider adding a belt to best emphasize (or create) an hourglass shape
  • Sexy doesn’t have to reveal much—an unbuttoned shirt and an above-the-knee (but not really short) pencil skirt
  • Add sex appeal through details like faux leather and mesh trim
  • A sexy pair of heels will give any outfit a spicy kick
  • Draw attention to key features by adding some sparkle—like wearing a statement necklace to attention to your décolletage

 

Outfit Breakdown:

SOme dates don't care if you are sexy!

SOme dates don't care if you are sexy!

 

 

Are you thinking of spring clothes now and looking for a spring translation of this? Consider the boutique-style denim Bardot Shirt, Sleeveless Double Drape Tee, and the Lido Skirt from cabi Spring 2016 collection. Consider wearing the shirt open and tied at your waist. The Twilight Fringe Necklace and Vintage Crystal Studs by Stella & Dot work for spring too. Add the Interlux for fun shoes and you have a sexy spring version.


Extra cuteness for your viewing pleasure.

Love POW: A Chic & Vintage About Town Thursday

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Outfit Mission Statement: Take romantic, vintage-inspired pieces and mix them with sleek, trendy pieces for a sweet, fresh and modern look

TTT Thursday outfits are Trendy, Transitional, and/or Terrific—in other words my choice. Whatever other outfit ideas the garment gave me. It may be something very trendy, transitional, or something else. This week I went with cute, classy, and trendy. The POW (Piece of the Week) is the cabi fall 2015 Love Blouse. This outfit could easily work for a date night or a night out with the girls. I see a Valentine's day celebration, fancy drinks, gallery openings, dinner with friends, a weeknight celebrations, and theater in this outfit’s future (and it's great for standing in a driveway with the family’s chalk art!). This outfit is a fun mix of pretty and sweet with sleek and stylish. I love it! The trick is to not go too far with either the sleek & stylish or the pretty & sweet. The romantic Love Blouse, the pretty lace top, the vintage bead clutch, and the darling rose quartz earrings all add a pretty and even vintage feel. But add skinnies with rolled hems and sleek sexy shoes and you have a balanced fresh look. The neutral navy in the blouse, lace top, and jeans also pulls the look together with a more modern feel and tones down the sweet pieces so this is not sugary sweet. The mix of gold, a pewter, and silver in the earrings give it a chic touch that is not too matchy-matchy.

 

Tips:

  • Pair romantic, vintage-inspired (or vintage) pieces with sleek modern pieces for a look stands out (and doesn’t go overboard in either direction) 

  • Draw the outfit together with a darker neutral theme—this will tone down any sticky sweetness and provide a modern feel

  • Roll those jean hems to show off sexy shoes

  • Accessorizing with different metals adds a chic touch and compliments (and updates) the vintage pieces

  • Consider a side ponytail when you want both sleek and free (this works especially well with waves and curls)

  • When you have clothing that has its own “built in” accessories—like the ruffles collar on the Love Blouse or the lace of the lace top, you do not need to add a necklace, as it could distract. But have fun with things further away from these built in accessories, like a clutch or purse and shoes.

Outfit Breakdown:

The clothing items in this outfit are all cabi Fall 2015, and no longer available. Contact me if you must have something and I may be able to direct you to a stylist who has it. Look for substitutes from your own closet or check out the alternatives below. I normally will make the POW a currently available item, but my blog launched later than planned and I wanted to share these outfits. The next POW will be of an available item, I promise!

  • Blouse: This is the cabi Fall 2015 Love Blouse. To find a substitute from your own closet, look for a feminine blouse with a special feature. If you don’t have quite the right blouse to substitute in your closet, consider these cabi Spring 2016 alternatives:  
    • Vita Blouse: This gorgeous draped blouse is also sleeveless and has a sexy cutout in the back
    • Bella Top: This feminize, fluttery blouse has a similar feel to the love blouse
    • Positano Top: This flowy top reminds me of vintage fabric but with very current colors
    • Gemma Top: This bright green beauty has eyelets and lace for a vintage and trendy feel
  • Jeans: Skinny jeans are everywhere. If you don’t already have some dark skinny jeans, I’m sure you can find some you will love. If you want something a bit less skinny (and white), consider the Slimmie. 
  • Lace Top: The London Top is, yup, a cabi Fall 2015 item and no longer for sale. Here are some different directions you can go: 
    • Capri Top: With crochet ivory lace in a flowing oversized design, you get a vintage bohemian feel. Consider wearing a bright cami or tank underneath to pop color and add some pizazz, such as the Tiger Lily Layer Tank or either V-Neck Cami. 
    • Piccolo Shrug: This bright, cropped shrug has a 60s feel
    • Portico Shrug: Another bright shrug, this has more of a modern feel with dolman sleeve and an open design
  • Earrings: These are Rose Quartz Dangle Earrings by Shine Chaser Jewelry
  • Clutch: This is a vintage clutch (I’m guessing from the 1950s or 1960s) that my mom bought me for Christmas. I’ll put the shop name in where she got it when she gets back to me.
  • Shoes: These lovely gray and pewter pumps are the Audrey Brooke Glenda Pump, which I recently got for a steal (under$20) at DSW, but are showing as $39.94 online
 

For a spring version with currently available pieces, consider: cabi’s2016 Spring Bella Top, Slimmie jeans, and Piccolo Shrug, with the Audrey Brooke Glenda Pump, Rose Quartz Dangle Earrings, and a vintage clutch.

An added bonus. Y'all want to see pictures of my adorable kid, right?

An added bonus. Y'all want to see pictures of my adorable kid, right?



Love POW: Spicy Sweet Friday Night Drinks

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Outfit Mission Statement: Mix romantic pretty items with ripped denim and black leather for a look that is both sugar and spice and certainly nice

Friday Night Drinks POW outfits are for going out on a date, getting drinks, seeing a band play, going to dinner and a movie—something where you want to look good and may wear some sexier clothes and statement pieces. The POW (Piece of the Week) is the cabi fall 2015 Love Blouse. In many ways, this blouse is ready for a romantic date without any work at all. But, sometimes we don’t want to look all sweet and romantic. Sometimes we want some spice with our sugar. For the spice I added ripped jeans. These give a real edge to the outfit, creating some flirty fun. The jeans balance the sweet of the Love Blouse and scarf combo. The black shoes also add a bit of spice with the cutout and black leather, even though the style is reminiscent of Victorian style. The amazing faux fur trimmed Twist Scarf adds to the romantic sweetness, and gives a bit of warmth and a bit more filtration. Together we have a spicy sweet Friday night look, perfect for a romantic night out with your sweetie, out partying with friends, or anything in-between.  

Tips:

  • Don’t be afraid of mixing romantic pieces with edgy pieces 
  • Find ways to balance out a romantic blouse to make your outfit multidimensional
  • Consider rolling your jeans to show off your shoes and look a bit more street and trendy (for tips and a tutorial from PopSugar) 
  • Add a scarf for added flirtation potential (and warmth)
  • Think details like ruffles, fur, tassels, and rips to make sure your outfit is not boring (we can’t make promises about that blind date) 
  • When choosing an ombré blouse, go with one that goes from light to dark as you go down. This will lighten your face while making your waist and hips look smaller 
  • When wearing an ombré blouse, choose pants that are similar in color to the colors at the bottom of the blouse to create a longer, leaner look

 

Outfit Breakdown:

The clothing items in this outfit are all cabi Fall 2015, and no longer available. Contact me if you must have something and I may be able to direct you to a stylist who has it. Look for substitutes from your own closet or check out the alternatives below. I normally will make the POW a currently available item, but my blog launched later than planned and I wanted to share these outfits. The next POW will be of an available item, I promise!

  • Blouse: This is the cabi Fall 2015 Love Blouse. To find a substitute from your own closet, look for a feminine blouse with a special feature. If you don’t have quite the right blouse to substitute in your closet, consider these cabi Spring 2016 alternatives:
    • Vita Blouse: This gorgeous draped blouse is also sleeveless, and has a sexy cutout in the back
    • Bella Top: This feminize, fluttery blouse has a similar feel to the love blouse
    • Plaza Top: This classic, flowing blue and white blouse has a cute Henley collar
    • Tivoli Top: This fierce black and taupe blouse has plenty of cool features
  • Jeans: These are the cabi Fall 2015 Dark Destruction Slim Boyfriend, and yup, no longer available. However, there are two great cabi Spring 2016 options:
  • Scarf: The Twist Scarf is cabi Fall 2015 also and it sold out during the regular season. Consider:
    • Flora Scarf: This is a colorful floral scarf from the cabi Spring 2016 collection
    • Dunand Deco Floral Scarf: This stunning black, white, and gray has a leaf design based on a beautiful lacquered wood panel and is from the Metropolitan Museum of Art Store
    • Monet Water Lilies Scarf: This striking scarf is mostly blue with pops of a red color and is  also from the Metropolitan Museum of Art Store 
  • Shoes: These are an old, beloved pair of A2s from Aerosoles. Here are some in stock options: 
    • Glamorous: Black leather with an open toe and side cutout-sleek and sexy!
    • Mirage: This buckled ankle bootie with an open toe are edgy and fun
  • Earrings: These are Rose Quartz Dangle Earrings by Shine Chaser Jewelry

 

 

 

Looking for a Spring version of this? Here is a version composed of the alternatives listed above and the available earrings: Vita Blouse, Destructed Skinny in Curvy, Dunand Deco Floral Scarf, Mirage bootie, and Rose Quartz Dangle Earrings.


POW week 1: Tonal Friday Night Drinks

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Outfit Mission Statement: Mix casual pants with dressier tops in the same tone for a put-together and fun date night outfit

Friday Night Drinks POW outfits are for going out on a date, getting drinks, seeing a band play, going to dinner and a movie—something where you want to look good and may wear some sexier clothes and statement pieces. The POW (Piece of the Week) is the cabi fall 2015 Media Jacket. To make it date night ready, I added a special top, some fun pants, a delicate necklace, and slouch boots. While this outfit is not “sexy,” the lower neckline on the blouse shows a bit more skin, which I accent with a fine necklace, giving sex appeal while still being fairly modest. The celadon cargo pants (which are like jeans) add color and fun, while dressing down the fancier top and jacket. I love taking dressier jackets and blouses and dressing them down with jeans or similar pants. Colored jeans make the casual element pop. The tonal match of the pants and jacket together with the black make for a striking two-color ensemble that looks more polished and put-together.

Tips:

  • Dress down fancier jackets and tops with jeans or casual pants for a date-ready look
  • Play up a bit of skin with a delicate necklace
  • Consider wearing colored jeans or pants to pop color and emphasize the casual
  • Wear tonal colors with a neutral for a more polished and put-together look

Outfit Breakdown:

The clothing items in this outfit are all cabi Fall 2015 (or earlier), and no longer available. Contact me if you must have it and I may be able to direct you to a stylist who has it. I offer ways to substitute from you own closet or alternatives below. I normally will make the POW a currently available item, but my blog launched later than planned.

  • Jacket: Shown is the Fall 2015 cabi media jacket, which is now unavailable. From your own closet, you can substitute a cropped jacket and/or a flashy jacket in a shorter style. Or, if you want to purchase, here are a few other cropped jackets to consider instead: 
 Beaded Amazonite Necklace by Solid Treasures 

 Beaded Amazonite Necklace by Solid Treasures 

  • Pants: These are the Celadon Cargos, also from cabi Fall 2015, and not available (although if you must have them, contact me and I may be able to find a stylist with a sample). Here are some substitutes from cabi Spring 2016:
    •  Ditsy Skinny: Also a green skinny, but with a pattern.
    • Traveler Pant: Love the casual style of these—with the right blouse these would make awesome date pants.
  •   Boots: These are old slouch boots. I bet you can find some you love with a quick search, or have something else that works.
  • Jewelry: The necklace is the Beaded Amazonite Necklace by Solid Treasures and is no longer available. She may be able to make you one by special order, I’m not sure. A shop update is coming soon, so look for something similar on her site.