Diving into a Stylish Summer! My Personal June Style Challenge

As I recently posted, I’ve been having some issues and did not keep up with this blog or my Instagram account.

But I am diving back in with the June Style Challenge!

For those of you who are unfamiliar, I host a monthly personal style challenge. Instead of giving you daily or weekly prompts, you choose your personal style challenge for the month. Maybe you want to wear more skirts or learn to mix prints? Maybe you dare yourself to bare your arms, like Kelly Gartner, our June style challenge partner, did last month. Maybe you wear too much black? Perhaps you want to try the cold shoulder trend? Whatever your issue or challenge, you choose it and Work It for the whole month. Post here, in the comments each day you work it or to Instagram with the tag #WorkingMyPersonalStylechallenge.

Each post enters you to win one of our fabulous June prizes:

• Our grand prize is a $50 Stella & Dot gift certificate from stylist Kelly Gartner! I love Stella & Dot. They have some fabulous summer pieces and some on-trend collections like Summer Silver and Neutral Chic. We’ll post more about Stella & Dot here and on Instagram, so keep an eye out!
• Our pink prize is a Seven Day Trail Pack of the New Plexus Slim (the link shows the older Slim). The pink drink is designed to help you lose weight and does so by balancing blood sugar and now (in the new version, which you could win) by promoting the growth of good gut microflora*. The ingredients are all natural--no artificial dyes or flavors.  I’ve found my mood is improved (no hanger here) and more balanced, I have less food cravings and less appetite, and I have so much more energy. I don’t even need coffee anymore! I’ll talk more about the Pink Drink below, should you be interested, with even some links to research. The older Slim Trail Packs cost $24.95. I’m not sure what the pricing will be on the new Slim, so I cannot give you an exact value, but it is likely more than $24.95. This is a brand new formula that I don’t even think you can buy yet. Luckily, the Ambassadors got a special early purchase opportunity, which I jumped on and am sharing with you!

So, choose your personal challenge(s), work them throughout the month, post here or on Instagram with the #WorkingMyPersonalStylechallenge, and be entered to win Stella & Dot or Plexus Slim!

My challenges:

Target scarf, Hamilton Tee shirt (from NYC show), cabi reversible skirt (older), Nedala sandal from JustFab.

For June I have two Personal Style Challenges:

• Casual dresses and skirts: I wear skirts a lot to work and dresses not much. I’d like to work on wearing both more and doing so casually—not just for the office.
• Shorts with longer sleeves: I wear sleeveless shirt or tee shirts with shorts. But I don’t tend to wear longer sleeved shirts with shorts. I do not know why not. I wear longer pants with tee shirts. So, I should do the reverse. And will work this for June!

Follow me on Instagram to see how I do!

Our Partner:

Kelly Gartner is a stylist with her own fabulous style blog Kelly Gartner Style. She is also a personal stylist with Stella & Dot. We are both cabi addicts and met through our love of cabi! She does amazing closet organization and personal styling too. Kelly is full of style! Check her out on Instagram to learn more about style, get tips on closest reorganizations, and see some amazing Stella & Dot jewelry!

More about Plexus Slim:

Plexus Slim and other Plexus products.

I was introduced to the “pink drink” by my cousin, Diana, and after trying it out, I was sold. So sold, in fact, that shortly afterwards I became a Plexus Ambassador. Diana likes to call Slim “Balance,” which I agree is a much better name for it, because it does more than help people lose weight. It adds balance by balancing my blood sugar and helping me balance my life. I am a better mother, worker, wife, friend, family member, and person because of this drink, and I am more balanced. My experience has been great, but don’t just take my word for it. Plexus Slim has clinically demonstrated it can help you lose weight (I’ll see I can find and add a link to this study). Plus, the new prebiotic (xylooligosaccharide) has been scientifically shown to drastically increase good gut microbes, leading to better health for you. The prebiotics (not probiotics--prebiotics) are a new trend in health research with some great research behind them. For example, one article I found says “Prebiotics exert a plethora of health-promoting effects…. Prebiotics are being implicated in starter culture formulation, gut health maintenance, colitis prevention, cancer inhibition, immunopotentiaton, cholesterol removal, reduction of cardiovascular disease, prevention of obesity and constipation...” and another says ‘prebiotics… can also have an impact, improving sleep and buffering the physiological impacts of stress.” Buffering stress impacts? Better sleep? Cancer inhibition? Cholesterol removal? Reduced cardiovasualr disease? And more? These little buggers work miracles! Do note: None of these statements have been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. It’s my experience, the Plexus literature, and some research I did (and linked to).

More casual? Maybe not yet... Renee C Addae Knit Dress and Cole Haan Adair Bow Cap Toe Wedge shoes, both fromStitch Fix (use my referral link for$25 of your first Fix)

* None of these statements have been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration

Give up not being the style diva you are for Lent! My Personal March Style Challenge

Do you practice Lent? I am not Catholic, but I often practice Lent as an exercise in self-awareness, recognition of my privileges, consciousness of those less fortunate, and away to improve my life and the world. I do not tend to do a subtractive Lent, but additive. I will add things to my life for 40 days. A personal style challenge and Lent work perfectly together! It’s a great opportunity to remove a bad habit—like always wearing black or add a new challenge, like wearing more skirts.

Image "Les iris nains de la garrigue by Isabelle Blanchemain https://flic.kr/p/FbpofL

Would you like to join me on this adventure? Would you like to win some money towards Luci Bags? Whether you are practicing Lent or not, use March to work on some personal style challenge. Think about how you want to grow and evolve your style. Choose an area or two for the month of March or for Lent and Work It! Post here, in the comments each day you work it or to Instagram with the tag #WorkingMyPersonalStylechallenge.

My challenges:

Isn't this cardi great? I don't wear it enough. Time to give it some love! Outfit: LaJu Armanda Ribbed Cardigan fromStitch Fix. Dark Destructed Skinny jeans and an older top from cabi clothing. Aerosole boots. Moonstruck Half Moon Necklace from eSBe

For March and Lent I have two Personal Style Challenges:

• Give up: I will not buy any new clothes in the month of March  
• Add to: I have a few that are not style related, but for Lent I am going to try to wear at least one garment that is not getting the love it deserves. I managed my closet clean out in February, although I am still finishing that up. I have a lot of clothes I love. But if I don’t wear them, I shouldn’t keep them.

My plan:

I've worn this great top once. Time to Work it! Outfit:  Le Lis Taley Split Neck Knit Top from Stitch Fix. Dark Destructed Skinny jeans and an older top from . JustFab boots (USE MY REFERRAL CODE TO SAVE $).

My plan is easy on the giving up—I just won’t buy clothes. I’ll need to stop going to sites and checking stuff out. That is a problem. And sales. Sales are a problem. With my newly arranged, cleaned out, and organized closet, I should be able to reach for those pieces I forget more easily.  I’ll certainly be talking about this on Instagram, so follow me there for more!

The Prize:

Luci Bags!

Want some help with your style challenge? Work your person style challenge, as discussed above, and you could win a $25 Luci Bags gift certificate!  I am working with the fabulous Luci stylist, Leigh Cheatwood-Harris, to bring you this opportunity. To enter, use the tag #WorkingMyPersonalStyleChallenge on Instagram to show us how you are doing. Or, leave a note for me in the comments here. Each post on Instagram will be entered to win. These are great display bags, where you can show off your business. There are also totes and pouches. I have my eye on a bow tote.  Work your style challenge and win money towards one of these bags! This is a great way to work your style challenge and show off your business or fashionably hold all your stuff!

More Luci Bags!

Working your Style to Love your Style: My Personal February Style Challenge

It is the month we celebrate love. But do you love your style? Are there things you would like to improve? Maybe you don’t wear enough red or always wear your heart on your sleeve. Maybe you need to improve your date night style game. Maybe you love your yoga pants too much. What are your style challenges? Want to fix them? Want to love your style? And want to win some cabi?

Take part in my Personal Style Challenge for February. Think about what changes you need to make to love your style. Think about what is holding you back and Work It! Choose to work on that one area for the month of February and see if you don’t just love your style at the end of the month.

My challenges:

Isn't the cabi Spring 2017 collection great? Beachcomber Hoodie, Flirt Cami, Mojave Slim Boyfriend jeans, and Sea Knot Necklace from cabi. Canvas by Lands' End Pointed Toe Mary Jane shoes.

The biggest part of my challenge for January was put on hold when I was in a car crash. It’s difficult to completely clean out one’s closet with a sprained wrist and a sprained neck. So, I am repeating my challenge from last month.

My closet is [still] a mess, with a bunch of new purchases that I don’t have room for and old stuff that no longer fits my body, lifestyle, or style—much of it from before having a kid. I need to do a closest clean out. Related to the mess that is my closet, I have been wearing a few easy-to-reach items and not enjoying the extent of what I have. This tends to mean I grab the newer stuff, as it is the easiest to get to. So, old favorites are missed. But, I am also not wearing all of the new stuff either. Putting this together, my style challenge is to curate my wardrobe, focusing on these areas:

• Finally get to the closet cleaned out, removing things that no longer fit fits my body, lifestyle, or style
• Evaluate the garments that are not worn much by wearing them and seeing how they work for me now or, if I do not wear them or can’t make them work, remove them [Started. I have a box of stuff downstairs]
• Get rid of the stuff that is not working, selling my quality clothes (from cabi, Stitch Fix, and more) and donating the rest
• Working on better methods of outfit management, such as trying the Stylebook app [I have uploaded my cabi Fall 2016 clothing, so I have started!]
• Wearing the clothes that are not getting worn, either because they are new or because they are older and lost in the chaos that is my closet. [I did a decent job here last month. I’ll try to keep that up]

My Plan

Work your personal style challenge and you could win $25 towards this! Cold Shoulder Cami, Dame Skirt, Cinch Belt, Anchor Earrings, Riviera Necklace (worn as choker), Lock & Key Bracelet all from cabi Sprng 2017. Isobel boots from JustFab (use my referral code to save $).

• Take a day, possibly off from work (because it is hard to do anything with a toddler around), and pull everything from my closet and evaluate it [Scheduled for February 17th]
• Create a donate pile and a sell pile
• Take pictures of the items to sell and post them on the groups and possible do a closet clean-out group
• Somehow mark or note the items I am keeping but don’t wear much
• Put everything back that I am keeping, using my new closet organization items
• Mange my wardrobe and outfits through the Stylebook app [In progress]
• Wear the unworn/little worn items more and post the outfits online

So, what about you? What do you need to work on? Join me! Select a challenge for you to work on, develop a plan, and let’s kick those style challenges to the curb! Use the tag #WorkingMyPersonalStyleChallenge to show us how you are doing on Instagram. Or, leave a note for me in the comments here.

 

The Prize:

Love your style and win $ to buy this cabi! Flirt Cami, Pocket Cardigan, and Zip Skinny from cabi Spring 2017. Tarynn booties from JustFab. (use my referral code to save $).

Want some help with your style challenge? Work your person style challenge, as discussed above, and you could win a $25 cabi gift certificate!  I am working with the fabulous cabi stylist, Leigh Cheatwood-Harris, to bring you this opportunity. To enter, use the tag #WorkingMyPersonalStyleChallenge on Instagram to show us how you are doing. Or, leave a note for me in the comments here. Each post on Instagram will be entered to win. The cabi Spring 2017 collection just launched, and is fabulous. Work your style challenge and win some of this collection! This is a great way to work your style challenge and celebrate your improved style. Love your style and work it!

New Year, Working the New You! My Personal Style Challenge for January

With the New Year, comes all of those New Year’s resolutions. We try to become better people with healthier habits and practices. But, we do not always work on our style. Here is an easy way to work on your style without the twelve month commitment of a New Year’s resolution!

Image is "Textura navideña 4: Bokeh brindis" by M & Pi  on Flickr, with modifcations by me.

Look at these shoes! And the cute dress! Sadly, I've only worn this outfit once, besides the photo shoot! I have only worn this dress for this photo shoot! Millie textured Knit Dress by Pixley with Hannley Mary Jane Strappy Pump by Nine West, both from Stitch Fix.

Take part in my Personal Style Challenge for January. Think about how you want to grow and evolve your style. Perhaps you default to a few key pieces. Perhaps you only wear black. Maybe you want to kick things up a notch for work. Maybe you never wear scarves. Maybe you want to try a new trend. Think about what you want to change and Work It! Choose to work on that one area for the month of January. They say it takes 21 days to make a habit. So, you can conquer one of your resolutions in just one month, and start the New Year with a success!

 

 

 

 

My challenge:

I have only worn this dress for this photo shoot! Jace Embroidered Lace Dress by 41Hawthorn and from Stitch Fix.

Often I choose multiple things to work on. This month I’m going to focus on one, but one this one has parts. My closet is a mess, with a bunch of new purchases that I don’t have room for and old stuff that no longer fits my body, lifestyle, or style—much of it from before having a kid. I need to do a closest clean out. Related to the mess that is my closet, I have been wearing a few easy-to-reach items and not enjoying the extent of what I have. This tends to mean I grab the newer stuff, as it is the easiest to get to. So, old favorites are missed. But, I am also not wearing all of the new stuff either. Putting this together, my style challenge is to curate my wardrobe, focusing on these areas:

• Finally get to the closet cleaned out, removing things that no longer fit fits my body, lifestyle, or style
• Evaluate the garments that are not worn much by wearing them and seeing how they work for me now or, if I do not wear them or can’t make them work, remove them
• Get rid of the stuff that is not working, selling my quality clothes (from cabi, Stitch Fix, and more) and donating the rest
• Working on better methods of outfit management, such as trying the Stylebook app
• Wearing the clothes that are not getting worn, either because they are new or because they are older and lost in the chaos that is my closet.

My plan:

This outfit is a good example of my new style. But, I have only worn the sweater once besides this photo shoot! Fierro Elbow Patch Crew Neck Sweater by Brixon Ivy from Stitch Fix. The Scout pant from cabi. Wellie Rain Boots from L.L. Bean.

1. Take a day, possibly off from work (because it is hard to do anything with a toddler around), and pull everything from my closet and evaluate it
2. Create a donate pile and a sell pile
3. Take pictures of the items to sell and post them on the groups and possible do a closet clean-out group
4. Somehow mark or note the items I am keeping but don’t wear much
5. Put everything back that I am keeping, using my new closet organization items
6. Mange my wardrobe and outfits through the Stylebook app
7. War the unworn/little worn items and post the outfits online

So, what about you? Do you have any personal style challenges you want to conquer? If so, join me! Select a challenge for you to work on, develop a plan, and let’s kick those style challenges to the curb! Use the tag #WorkingMyPersonalStyleChallenge to show us how you are doing on Instagram. Or, leave a note for me in the comments here. I'll choose one winner, who will get a $25 JamBerry gift certifcate from my friend Jenny!

Favorites from the Fall 2016 cabi collection—Get them while you can!

The fall cabi 2016 collection was one of the best I’ve seen. Unfortunately, they stop selling it today, December 31. So, while there is still time, let me share some of my favorite pieces from the collection!

Duchess Scarf, Skinny Cord and Lace-up Sweater

Medallion Reign Blouse, Skinny Cord, and the Duchess Scarf

Duchess Scarf: This camel knit and faux fur scarf is probably my most worn piece of the season. It adds warmth and elegance to anything. I especially loved it in the fall when I wanted something seasonal, but it was too warm for a sweater or flannel. I love it over sleeveless or short sleeved tops, but it’s also fun over a sweater. It can dress up easily and be worn as a wrap. They also offer a teal one. This goes with so much! I love it all the ways shown here!

Medallion Reign Blouse: This is such a fun blouse. The print had a vintage feel, although my son thinks the medallions are tigers (they do look somewhat like tigers, especially to a three-year-old). It is in the same style as some favorites from previous seasons, and the shape flatters and hides. The print and ruffle give is a romantic and boy-meet-girl feel. You can easily rock with or jean or wear it under a jacket or cardigan for the office, church, or other occasions. It’s a seasonless piece, which I look forward to wearing often. I love it with the Skinny Cord or the Sigourney Skirt. It’s perfect under the Penny Blazer, Tartan Jacket, Reversible Wrap Sweater, or the Sweetheart Sweater.

Duchess Scarf, Skinny Cord and Lace-up Sweater

Skinny Cord: These are a very on-trend umber color that is a rich natural and will go with an amazing amount of things. I love my cabi skinny cords from this season and previous seasons. They fit wonderfully, and the stretch means they move. These cords pair well with much of the cabi season tops and sweater, or a variety of other brands. I was amazed by how often I reached for them and what they went with. A favorite outfit was combining this with the Jagger Blouse, Sweetheart Sweater, Duchess Scarf, and some Over-the-knee black boots—sexy, cute, and cozy!

Lace-up Sweater: A beautiful update to a classic sweater, with a lace-up back and pretty chiffon layer that shows through and an A-line shape that give it a loose flowy feel. It is very flattering, and emphasizes curves, while be cozy and pretty. I get compliments whenever I wear it.  It goes great with the Skinny Cord & Duchess Scarf, skinny jeans of various types. Also, try it with a pretty flowy top underneath in for double layers in back, such as the Cameo Top, Stevie Top, or the Zoe Top. See below for the back!

Penny Blazer, Stevie Top, and Dusk Destructed Skinny

Penny Blazer (holding), Stevie Top, and Dusk Destructed Skinny

Penny Blazer: This classic, yet on-trendblazer looks like it is tweed, but it is ponte knit! It stretches and moves because of the ponte and is a lighter weight, perfect for warmer climate or year-round wear. The pockets have adorable bows and the cut is flattering. This is another great example of the boy-meets-girl trend. It’s perfect for the office, but also can be dressed down with some fun boots and destructed jeans. I love it with the Stevie, as shown, or the Medallion Reign Blouse. The jeans are a fun way to wear it, but feel free to dress it up for work with a pencil skirt, such as the Sigourney Skirt. Add a white button down for a classic look, a fun print blouse for a more modern look, or both with the It’s a Wrap Shirt.

Stevie Top: This cute Henley top is another perfect transitional piece. I wore this so much in our warm Georgia fall when I wanted an autumn feel while staying cool. The green is fun pop of color with the warm fall neutrals and makes it work just as well for spring! The bouquet print reminds me of the 70s, but in fun, contemporary way. This piece is perfect with so many of the cabi fall items. I love it with the Penny Blazer, as shown, and with the camel Sweetheart Sweater. The Duchess Scarf looks great with it. I think I have been wearing it the most with the Skinny Cord but love it also with the Dusk Destructed Skinny (as shown). The lovely Cameo Earrings (shown) are the perfect earrings both in color and style for this top.

Dusk Destructed Skinny: These jeans come in a regular style and a curvy style—which has more room in the hip and thigh and a higher rise for those of us with curves. The dark color is flattering and slimming. The destruction adds an edge to them, but is more subtle and unique with the black treads instead of the white we often see. They are soft jeans too—so cozy and comfortable. These have been my go-to jeans this season. As a dark skinny, you can rock them with anything. I love mixing the dressier or prettier items with them for some fun contrasts, such as the Penny Blazer, as shown, or the Lace-up Sweater. They also easily go sexy and edgy with items like the Jagger Blouse and Tartan jacket. Or go super casual with a sweatshirt and still look trendy!

Jagger Blouse, Tartan Jacket, and Dusk Destructed Skinny

Jagger Blouse: This blouse has it all. The tuxedo styling, pin tucks, and lace gives it a classic and Romantic feel. The black and unlined lace with a sleeveless styling, give it a sexy and tough feel. What more could you want? Wear it with a black cami for a more classic look, a bright colored cami for a trendy look, a nude cami for a sexy look, or no cami and a nude or black for a more risqué look. I have mostly worn this for dates, but it is perfect under a blazer for work or dressed up for a special occasion. For a tough yet feminine rocker look wear it with the Dusk Destructed Skinny. The Tartan Jacket can dress it up, or add even more of a rocker edge, depending on what else you are wearing. I love it with Sweetheart Sweater, Duchess Scarf, and Skinny Cord. Since this is sleeveless, it will work just as well for a hot summer night!

Tartan Jacket: I must confess, the Black Watch style plaids—with dark green and dark blue are a favorite of mine. And while this is not Black Watch, it is similar, and I love it. I also adore moto jackets. So a blue and green plaid moto jacket? There was no doubt I would adore this, and I do! Like many of the other pieces this season, it has a classic and edgy feel and can easily be worn either way. One of my favorite ways to wear this was with a past season skinny cord and a navy and white striped shirt, brown boots and the Duchess Scarf. You can improvise with this season’s Skinny Cord and Ernest Tee. It also rocks with the Dusk Destructed Skinny and Jagger Blouse. Or for a classic office look, wear it with a white blouse and pencil skirt.

Reversible Wrap Sweater, Wraparound Top, and Skinny Cord

Reversible Wrap Sweater: This versatile piece can be worn as a wrap or a loose open cardigan. Plus, it is reversible, so you can wear the blue or the slate/taupe color out. I’m wearing the blue color in this pictures, but the color of the stripes is the other color. This is a perfect layering piece. You can add it for some extra warmth. I wore it a lot in the fall over sleeveless blouse for a fall feel without too much warmth. But it is great now over turtlenecks and long sleeved tops. Whenever I wear it I get compliments. It can be worn to work or more casually. I love it with the Medallion Reign Blouse, but it also works over white, like the Wraparound Top. Either the Skinny Cord or the Dusk Destructed Skinny are great bottoms for this wrap. Or go super comfy and casual with the Spacedye M’leggings.

Wraparound Top: The sculpted draped top is elegant, classy, and easy to wear, as it just zips in the back. It can easily be dressed down, as shown, but is a perfect layer for the office or with other elegant pieces for a special occasion. Imagine it with some flowing black pants, classy heels, and pearls! For an elegant, yet easy office look, add the Sigourney Skirt and Darby Cardigan.

Sigourney Skirt, Sweetheart Sweater, and the Medallion Reign Blouse

Sigourney Skirt: Pencil skirts as classic pieces and wardrobe essentials. They are flattering to a variety of shapes, sizes, and heights.  I love that this one is turquoise—a fun color for such a classic pieces. And it has pockets for those pocket lovers! This is a great addition to your wardrobe regardless of whether you have several pencil skirts (like I do) or have none. Dress it down with a tee shirt, such as the Quinn Tee. Wear it to work with the Medallion Reign Blouse and Sweetheart Sweater (as shown), or the Darby Cardigan and Wraparound Top. So many of the seasons tops go with this, such as the Foulard and the Poppy. Or go for a sleek 60s-inspired look with the Odyssey Turtleneck. I will be featuring this skirt as a POW soon, so stay tuned!

Sweetheart Sweater: Last, but certainly not least is one of my favorite and most worn pieces from this season. This amazing long open sweater doesn’t require height to wear. The handkerchief hem, and fitted top do not overwhelm shorter people. And the styling is slimming, not boxy. It actually makes your backside look great. I’ve never found another long sweater that flatters my butt, but this does!  It comes in black or camel. Both are great, but I love the camel. Black longer sweaters are pretty common, so the camel is more eye-catching. It’s also such a rich, fun neutral. It goes with so much of the fall collection, such as the Medallion Reign Blouse, Stevie Top, and Jagger Blouse. I wore it as a cozy layer instead or threw it on as a jacket when running errands. I love it with skirts (as shown here with the Sigourney Skirt) or skinnys, such as the Skinny Cord or the Dusk Destructed Skinny. If you get one long sweater, get this one!

Cameo Earrings and Pyramid Necklace with the Stevie Top

As you can tell, I loved the cabi Fall 2106 collection. There are several other pieces that could have made this list, but I ran out of time. Let me give you two more honorable mentions—the Foxy Scarf and LBD Edie Dress, which are both part of the Holiday Charms limited edition. I plan to rock these this NYE—like this! I did not include the Beyond Tee, because I just featured it as the POW and you can see it styles seven different ways with lots of variations. Do not forget the jewelry, which is great! I love the Chelsea Charm Necklace, the Rock Star Earrings, Cameo Earrings, the Pyramid Necklace, and the Zelda Necklace.

If you want any of these cabi clothes, run don’t want to your stylist, as today is the last day to order! 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.

Penny Blazer (holding), Stevie Top, and Dusk Destructed Skinny

Lace-up Sweater from the back, and the Duchess Scarf, & Skinny Cord 

Reversible Wrap Sweater, Wraparound Top, and Skinny Cord

Jagger Blouse, Tartan Jacket, and Dusk Destructed Skinny

Reversible Wrap Sweater, Wraparound Top, and Skinny Cord

Jagger Blouse and Dusk Destructed Skinny

Lace-up Sweater, Duchess Scarf, & Skinny Cord 

Medallion Reign Blouseand Dusk Destructed Skinny

Stitch Fix Review: Houndstooth & Elephants, Oh My Fix Four

41HAWTHORN Colibri Solid Tab Sleeve Blouse, SeaVees Monterey Houndstooth Lace-Up Sneakers, and LIVERPOOL Elizabeth Super Skinny Jean.

My wardrobe is pretty much cabi. As I have said before, I don’t really like shopping. I have a hard time finding stuff that fits and I like. Plus, it takes so much time! So, cabi was a perfect fit and literally often a perfect fit. And while I adore cabi, it means my wardrobe is limited by being mostly a single brand. Stitch Fix may be my perfect solution to that. I don’t have to shop. I don’t have to waste time driving to the mall or store or boutiques. I fill out a style profile, I tell my stylish what I want, and each month a box arrives with a variety of brands that my stylist thought worked for me and my requests. It’s wonderful. The clothes fit perfectly into my wardrobe and lifestyle. Now my wardrobe is a mix of cabi and Stitch Fix. I find myself reaching for some of my favorite Stitch Fix pieces time and again. They mix beautifully with cabi and add a depth to my wardrobe and style!  

But, sometimes the clothes are not me or don’t fit. Not all Fixes are perfect. But so far, I have loved at least two items from the Fix. Let’s see how this next Fix works!

About Stitch Fix

For those who are unfamiliar, Stitch Fix is a personal styling service. You fill out a profile, provide links to your social media and perhaps a Board on Pinterest of your style and things you like, and you get a box of five items shipped to you. You set the price point for the box and the frequency of the boxes. Stitch Fix hooks you up with a personal stylist, who sends a note and styling suggestions each time. You can leave the stylist a note before she prepares your box, letting her know your clothing needs, plans, and so on that may impact her choices. You can get clothing and shoes (and perhaps jewelry and other accessories, but I have only gotten shoes and clothes so far). There is a $20 styling fee, but this is taken off anything you purchase. Also, if you purchase all five items you get a 25% discount.

Feel free to check out my Pinterest board for my Stitch Fix stylist. I’m not so good about remembering to note why I am pinning the piece until I pin it. I think the interface just doesn’t match my flow (I say as someone who does research on the user experience with interfaces, so I may not be just making this up).

My Style Profile and Requests

My default pricing is $50-100 per item (it can be adjusted based on type, but I keep it the same), but I moved my price range down to “the cheaper the better” for several areas. I said I wanted more sneakers, since I loved the ones last time, or some nice fall boots. I expressed general interest in fall clothes.

Unboxing

Interested in my initial reactions? I made a video of the unboxing (disclaimer: I’ve only ever done two other videos and I used my laptop, so it is not high quality). It’s casual and you get to hear my voice and learn more about me.

All five items

The Five Items

I received three tops, one pair of shoes, and one pair of skinny jeans. I’m posting an initial review next to each items and my final decision in the Final Verdict section.

41HAWTHORN Colibri Solid Tab Sleeve Blouse, SeaVees Monterey Houndstooth Lace-Up Sneakers, and LIVERPOOL Elizabeth Super Skinny Jean.

1)      41HAWTHORN Colibri Solid Tab Sleeve Blouse:

I love navy and dark blue colors and have been trying to get more of them, because they go well with my eyes. This is a great color. It’s a ¾ length sleeve blouse in a semi sheer polyester. It buttons part of the way down, and has some nice gathering at the shoulders. The band color is nice, and the sleeves can roll up. This would be a good summer work blouse, light and cool, yet appropriately professional. The fit is somewhat loose/baggy but fairly flattering. It will work well casually, over skinny jeans or even leggings. It’s a nice blouse, with some nice features, but is not particularly special. I think I would wear it, but I’m not sure if I would wear it enough. I have a lot of nice blouses in my closet.

Cost: $48.00

Verdict: Undecided right now

MARKET & SPRUCE Dollie Tie Back Neck Knit Top, SeaVees Monterey Houndstooth Lace-Up Sneakers, and LIVERPOOL Elizabeth Super Skinny Jean.

2)      SeaVees Monterey Houndstooth Lace-Up Sneakers: I love these! The houndstooth print is so much fun! But, they are $98! I don’t tend to spend that much on any footwear other than really nice boots. Also, I think I am an 8.75 in SeaVees, neither the 8.5 or the 9s fit as well as I would like. I find the shoes less comfortable than I would like for sneakers—possibly because of sizing. But, so cute! So fun! Perfect for chasing the toddler around the park or dressing down a fancy skirt.

Cost: $98.00

Verdict: Would be a yes, if not for cost—undecided

MARKET & SPRUCE Dollie Tie Back Neck Knit Top, SeaVees Monterey Houndstooth Lace-Up Sneakers, and LIVERPOOL Elizabeth Super Skinny Jean.

3)      MARKET & SPRUCE Dollie Tie Back Neck Knit Top: This is very soft and cozy. I love the baggy drapes. I also adore the tie back neck. The grosgrain ribbon bow adds a touch of whimsy and pretty to a casual sweater/sweatshirt.  The keyhole in back adds a bra-friendly flash of skin and makes the top even more fun. This is great over leggings when you want to feel like you are wearing PJs. It would look great with the khaki, olive, and army green that are all the rage. This is also very on-trend with the cute loungewear trend. I hope this works with the Spacedye M’legging and the Trek Jogger for stylist comfort!

Cost: $54.00

Verdict: Keeping!

PIXLEY Ellie Printed 3/4 Sleeve Blouse, SeaVees Monterey Houndstooth Lace-Up Sneakers, and LIVERPOOL Elizabeth Super Skinny Jean.

4)      PIXLEY Ellie Printed 3/4 Sleeve Blouse: My initial reaction, shown in the video, is “meh” about an elephant print. I know my toddler would love it, but it’s a bit out there for me. I also have some cute print blouses in my comfort zone that don’t get worn enough. The print is beige and black, making it less crazy than it could be, which helps. It’s also a semi sheer polyester, so it breathes easily and work well for work. The ¾ length sleeves are fixed and cannot be rolled up or down.  I do like it on me. It can be dressed down or up easily. It would be cute under a blazer or over leggings. The name is cute.

Cost: $48.00

Verdict: undecided, but do like it more than I thought

41HAWTHORN Colibri Solid Tab Sleeve Blouse, SeaVees Monterey Houndstooth Lace-Up Sneakers, and LIVERPOOL Elizabeth Super Skinny Jean.

5)      LIVERPOOL Elizabeth Super Skinny Jean: I have a lot of great cabi jeans, and have requested to not get jeans. These are really more like leggings, with the band-style leggings waist, and sewn on front pockets and “zipper area” (real back pockets). They are very comfortable, and the band will probably work better with my belly (although it does show through some of the tops). It is oddly baggy at the bottom—maybe they are too long? A dark skinny jean/legging can easily be dressed up for a date and down with a sweater or tunic. Depending on your workplace, you could even wear them to work. Of course, they will look great with boots. This nice dark color makes them more versatile, allowing them to be dressed up more. I can see reaching for these when I want the comfort of leggings and the look of jeans. Or when I am bloated.

Cost: $78.00

Verdict: Undecided but leaning yes

Final Verdict

This Fix grew on me. I loved the sneakers and the tie back top at first. But, the other pieces went from “meh” to more and more me. I realized the jean leggings were very comfortable and versatile. The waist was perfect for weight gain (stupid medication), but would also work when I took some of the weight off. I really wanted the sneakers, but the price… However, if I bought the whole fix, I got the sneakers pretty much “free” as they were close to the same amount of my 25% discounts. And I liked the shirts. The more I tried Ellie the more the elephant print grew on me. The Colibri blue top was also very versatile and such a great color. Soon, I have convinced myself to keep all of it (exchanging the sneakers for a 9). I’m very happy I did! I’ve worn all of the pieces. The sneakers are great. I adore styling the Colibri blue top, and even had fun with Ellie. The jeans have become a staple. I wore them a lot recovering from my sinus survey and since then when I want comfort and style. I can’t wait to rock them with some over-the-knee boots this fall. So, while I was not convinced at first, this was a great Fix and a welcome addition to my wardrobe. It just goes to show, you should always try on, always evaluate the place of a piece in your wardrobe, and always try styling it. Then you will know if it really works for you or not.

What is holding back your style? My Personal October Style Challenge

We all have our style challenges. Perhaps we lack confidence to try a style we love. Maybe we only wear blue. Perhaps we have never tried red lipstick. Maybe we tend to only wear our hair in a ponytail. Maybe we love over-the-knee boots, but just have not tried them. Whatever your challenge, and whatever your reason, here in as opportunity to grow.

Outfit: cords are classic cabi (similar), blouse is from Stitch Fix, Gray Owl Infinity Scarf from ITB Design, boots are Navy Veradley Ankle by Bucco and sold from Zulily, and , Feather ring by Solid Treasures

Take part in my Personal Style Challenge for October. Think about how you want to grow and evolve your style. Think about what is holding you back and Work It! Choose to work on that one area for the month of October. They say it takes 21 days to make a habit. So, you can change this style challenge into a style strength, in just one month.

I tried this idea before, in February, and plan to make it a monthly thing. I have many personal style challenges to work on. This way I can master one or two a month!

 

 

 

My challenges:

For October I have two Personal Style Challenges:

• Rings: I have rings, but besides my wedding and engagement rings, I tend to not wear them. So, I am challenging myself wear rings more in October!
• Scarves: I adore scarves. They are fun. They are a great way to add a pop of color or print to an outfit. They keep my neck warm. I have a ton of scarves. I do not wear scarves very often thought. So, I challenge myself to wear more scarves in October—which really is a great month to do so!

My plan:

My plan for both is simple: wear more of them. I have been working for months to add more rings to my collection, and I have several wonderful ones from Solid Treasures and a fun one from Shine Chaser Jewelry. I also recently joined Le Tote (more of this later), and will rent me some rings and scarves to help out.

I may report back and post pictures. I’ll certainly be talking about this on Instagram, so follow me there for more!

So, what about you? Do you have any personal style challenges you want to conquer? If so, join me! Choose a challenge, develop a plan, and let’s kick those style challenges to the curb! Use the tag #WorkingMyPersonalStylechallenge to show us how you are doing on Instagram. Or, leave a note for me in the comments here. I may even have a prize for one of you who worked their personal style challenge! Don't worry about meeting the challenge every day, unless you want to. Just do what you can. Even meeting it once is an improvement!

Work it!

Stitch Fix Review: Diamonds, Sailboats, and Sneakers Fix Three

As discussed in my last (and first) Stitch Fix review, I joined Stitch Fix recently, thanks to an Instagram friend and fellow cabi addict, Jenni. Stitch Fix is a subscription-based  personal styling service.  For more on how Stitch Fix works, do check out my first review. After two good Fixes, I decided to keep on going with my subscription. I continue to love Stitch Fix and look forward to the delivery of each box!

Keeping with “tradition,” I figured I would review for you my third Fix! My style profile and requests stayed nearly the same, although I did make two requests unique to the fix:

1. I asked for comfortable shoes to run around in
2. I asked for bra-friendly sleeveless tops

The first, because I did not have decent options and had been looking for a while. I want cute and comfy. The second because I have a lot of sleeveless tops that do not have bra-friendly straps and I can only wear a strapless bra so many days week before we all suffer (me and anyone around me). I need more I can wear a normal bra with!

Let’s see how my stylist did!

Unboxing

Interested in my initial reactions? I made a video of the unboxing (disclaimer: I’ve only ever done two other videos before—including one for my second Fix--and I used my laptop, so it is not high quality). It’s casual and you get to hear my voice and learn more about me.

The Five Items

I received two tops, one pair of shoes, one skirt, and a dress. Since I am posting this after I decided, you get my final decisions.

Kedavra Colorblock Cami Blouse, Leena Printed Skirt, Monterey Lace-up Sneakers all from my Stitch Fix, along with older Stella & Dot earrings.

1. Kedavra Colorblock Cami Blouse by 41Hawthron: First, is this bra-friendly? No. I’d need to wear a strapless or have the strap show. I love the soft black (or navy?) mixed with lavender and light pink—it gives it a vintage feel. The waist and draping are flattering, covering my tummy and complimenting my chest. It’s a light cool fabric and would be good for work under a jacket or cardigan or for a date with a cute pair of jeans or pencil skirt. The problem is, I have a lot of tops that fill this niche in my closet. This is the type of top cabi specializes in. I like it, but don’t love it, and I don’t need it. Especially not for near sixty dollars. Now, if it had wider straps and I could have worn a bra with it, I would have probably gotten it. Honestly, asking for bra-friendly and getting this was enough of a disappointment that I was less inclined to purchase it.

Cost: $58.00

Verdict: Did not purchase

Tammi Print Dress from Stitch Fix along with along with older Stella & Dot earrings and Bow Ballet Flats from Canvas by Land's End.

2. Tammi Print Dress by 41Hawthron: Better, but still not bra-friendly (I might be able to wear a racer-back, but highly bra dependent). So, disappointment there. This dress was a bit of a surprise on. The print was not really me—nautical I love, but often less literally. And the orange made it seem… cutesy rather than cute. But I did like the dress on. The cut was fairly flattering, and the fabric soft. I loved the side waist tie—fun and different. But, I’m not sure where I would wear this. My sundresses don’t get worn enough. I have other dresses that work better for work. And, while I liked it, I didn’t love it. Even my husband thought it cute, but limited in use.

Cost: $68.00

Verdict: Did not purchase

Visperas Crochet Back Top, Leena Printed Skirt, Monterey Lace-up Sneakers all from my Stitch Fix, along with older Stella & Dot earrings.

Visperas Crochet Back Top (back) and Leena Printed Skirt from my Stitch Fix, along with older Stella & Dot earrings.

3. Leena Printed Skirt by Renee C: This was an instant love! My concern unboxing it was fit. Pencil skirts and my hips do not always agree (but when they do! Bliss!). But it fit! The fabric is a very stretchy knit. I love the below-knee length—it looks a bit classier and sleeker this way. I love the diamond print. It looks 60s to me, without going overboard. This skirt easily dresses up or down (as you will see later). It’s perfect for work or a date. It’s also great with some sneakers and a fun tee. My wardrobe needed this skirt and I didn’t even know it! (I wore this in all pictures except the dress one)

Cost: $54.00

Verdict: Purchased!

4.  Visperas Crochet Back Top by Skies are Blue: The back of this top is fabulous! The crochet is so pretty and flattering. But look! It’s not bra-friendly! This is three for three. Such a disappointment. I loved the pretty crochet with the small triangle print—nice contract. But the fit of the top was not great. My chest was too big and pulling to top oddly. Plus it did not flow over the belly as much as I would like. And this has the same problem as Kedavra top. My closet is full of these types of top (not with the crochet back, of course). I will buy more, but they have to fit well and be special enough to kick some of the others out of my closet. (top in both pictures in this group)

Cost: $48.00

Verdict: Did not purchase

Leena Printed Skirt and Monterey Lace-up Sneakers all from my Stitch Fix, along with older Stella & Dot earrings, the cabi Spring 2016 Sleeveless Swing Tee, and Pendant Necklace with Teardrop Stone from Target.

5. Monterey Lace-up Sneakers by SeaVees: These are just what I asked for—practical comfy shoes I can run around in. And I love the “light purple” color (what they called it; I might go for “dusky lavender”). It’s a kick of fun, but in a near neutral that will go with so much. I adore them with the Leena skirt to dress it down. I actually had ordered some Converse in a similar, but less neutral, lavender, but they did not fit. It’s like the stylist knew just what I wanted here! Perfect for me and my wardrobe! You can see these also in some of the other pictures--I wore them with each outfit, except the dress.

Cost: $68.00

Verdict: Kept (although I exchanged them for a size up)

So what do you think? Did I choose wisely?

I loved the Leena skirt and sneakers so much, I modeled another fun look with a Spring 2016 cabi top. See how versatile the shoes and skirt are? How fun are they with the Sleeveless Swing Tee from cabi?

If you are interested in Stitch Fix and want to try it out, please consider using my Referral link: https://www.stitchfix.com/referral/3492600. I’ll get a $25 credit and you’ll get my gratitude here and elsewhere (which can include links to your social media, if you would like). I highly recommend Stitch Fix for an easy and fun way to get styled! Even when I get pieces that are not keepers, I get some I adore!

Check out my other Stitch Fix Reviews for more!

Three Tips for Fabulous Fourth Style: Tip Three—Find one versatile new piece and mix it with red, white, and blue you already own

For better or worse, the Fourth of July only comes once a year. You can style a few more patriotic days if you want, such as Memorial Day and Veterans’ Day (and Bastille Day, if you want to get your French on). But, most of the rest of the year, red, white, and blue just may be too much, especially items that are clearly for the Fourth. Thus, buying specific clothes for the holiday may not be an effective use of your money or closet space. Instead, start with a new piece that you can also wear other days of the year. Bonus points if it suggests the Fourth of July, such as stars in red, white, and/or blue, but doesn’t scream it, so you can wear them the rest of the season too. Then add red, white, and blue pieces you already own for a practical, closet-, and budget-friendly look!  Not sure what to get? Check out “Not just for fireworks: Nine Versatile Pieces for your Fourth of July and Patriotic Wardrobe” for some new pieces to add to your wardrobe.

Tips for making it work:

This skirt is perfect for the Fourth but it also can work for work, church, special occasions, and more! Outfit: PLEATED STAR SKIRT, SLEEVELESS DOUBLE DRAPE TEE, AND BOW BALLET FLATS.

• If you find your closet lacking either, go for stripes or stars for your new pieces—there are lots of options that easily work for everyday wear (my favorite may be this lovely skirt)
• Look for new pieces you can clearly see yourself wearing to best ensure you do
• If you add a new red item, you could possibly rock it for other “red” holidays, such as Christmas and Valentine’s day (a red dress a red or a top you can layer might be best for this) (this idea could also work for blue for Hanukkah…), making it even more versatile
• Keep in mind how you are celebrating the Fourth, while I love this skirt or this jacket, neither will work for my plans to be outside in the hot Georgia weather walking around a festival and having a casual picnic before watching fireworks (although I wore them to work around the Fourth for a patriotic touch)
• Look for fun pieces, such as red shiny wedges, as star scarf, or dangling star earrings for a celebratory touch
• Feel free to go overboard if you are adding anew accessory, as they can easily be styled “down” the rest of the year (Such as this blue and red star scarf—clearly has a Fourth of July vibe, but could also work with a navy suit)
• Shop your closet for the rest of the outfit, focusing on red, white, and blue items
• When putting together the outfit consider these previous tips:
  • Wear two of the colors, pop one
  • Mix prints, especially stars and stripes

This scarf is clearly ready for the Fourth--but think of all the ways you can wear it all summer long! OUTFIT: STRIPED FAVORITE TANK, PICNIC SHORT, STAR PRINT SCARF, AND THE BOW BALLET FLATS

Amazing jacket, right? It also rocks for work! OUTFIT: CRUISE JACKET, and everything else is older (Aersoles shoes, Target shorts, Stella & Dot necklace, past season necklace.

I hope you enjoyed my Three Tips for Fabulous Fourth Style. Be sure to check out Tip 1—Wear  Two & Pop One and Tip Two—Mix Prints for a more Festive Look!

I’ll be back to the POW posts soon, never free. But look forward to more posts of this kind. I had a lot of fun with them. Let me know if there is another day or topic you would like me to focus on for style tips!

Three Tips for Fabulous Fourth Style: Tip Two—Mix Prints for a more Festive Look!

For a fun and festival Fourth of July look, mix prints in red, white, and blue. This will be a more unexpected look, especially if you choose prints that are not something clearly "Fourth of July prints"—like an American flag print. Bonus points if you can mix a strip with a star print!

Tips for making it work:

Three prints, including a star print and stripe print. Outfit: Striped Favorite Tank, Picnic Short, Star Print Scarf, and the Bow Ballet Flats

• Make one of your prints stripes for more clear reference to Independence Day
• Consider mixing a stripes print and a star print, if you have them, for a fun play on the American flag (and this mixes two of the same types of prints [geometric], which is a win for print mixing)
• For the Fourth, you can have a lot of fun mixing prints in the three colors, which automatically gives you a limited palette and the opportunity to go bigger and bolder than normal
• Follow the rule for mixing prints so the outfit works together, especially these:
  • It may be easier to mix prints if you choose one main color that is in each of the prints to bring the outfit together (white may be easiest and is used in my examples)
  • For a more complicated mix, try prints with different main color (such as red, white, and blue) [These last two conflict, but either can work, so go with what best fits your style and experience with mixing prints]
  • If mixing prints in the same color, emphasize differences in size, fabric, and style of print
  • Play with size, mixing smaller prints with larger prints
  • Look for different fabrics and structure, such as a loose knit and a structured cotton
  • Consider stripes a neutral when mixing prints
• Have fun—it’s the Fourth you can go a bit wild and not be the craziest dressed person

Two prints with different main colors, textures, and print size. Outfit: KRIS TOP, PICNIC SHORT, STAR PRINT SCARF, AND THE BOW BALLET FLATS

Two prints both in the same two colors with the same main colors in different sizes. Outfit: Butterfly Print Scarf, PLEATED STAR SKIRT, SLEEVELESS DOUBLE DRAPE TEE, AND BOW BALLET FLATS.

Check out the first tip: Wear Two & Pop One and tune in tomorrow for the second!

Three Tips for Fabulous Fourth Style: Tip One--Wear Two & Pop One

For a classier, and more subtle take on  patriotic style , choose two of the three flag colors, such as blue and white, and base your outfit around them. Then choose one or two key elements (probably accessories) to pop the third color—red (or whatever is left).

Tips for making it work:

Gotta love the pop of a red shoe!

Outfit: PLEATED STAR SKIRT, SLEEVELESS DOUBLE DRAPE TEE, AND BOW BALLET FLATS.

• Think scarves, shoes, bags, and statement jewelry to pop your third color or wear a print that has some of that third color in it
• Limit the amount of the pop color to one or two pieces to make it really work
• Consider mixing prints in the two main colors of your outfit for added fun
• Take it even further and wear a dress, jumpsuit, or outfit in one color and then accessories in the other two
• Don’t be afraid of having blue and red as your two main colors—if you can do it more power to you!
• Have fun—it’s the Fourth you can go a bit wild and not be the most crazily dressed person

The red here is very subtle--in the stripes. I could also add a red shoe for added fun.

Outfit: CRUISE JACKET, Destructed Slim Boyfriend jeans from cabi Spring 2016, Fifth Avenue Tee past season cabi, Older Target shoes, Michael Kors, Selma Medium Satchel, Stella & Dot necklace, Sloan Ranger Knot Earrings.

More red shoe pop!

Outfit: PLEATED STAR SKIRT, Kate Spade handbag,  older cabi Drape Tee and older Aerosoles shoes.

Two Transitional cabi Pieces You Need Now: The Lido Skirt and Lido Jacket

The cabi Lido Skirt and Lido Jacket are two of the Seven Transitional cabi Spring 2016 Pieces That You Need Now. They work perfectly together as a suit, so I’m showing them as a suit with the amazing Vita Blouse.

Lido Skirt, Lido Jacket, Vita Blouse, Locket Necklace, Dolce Charm Earrings, and older neutral suede pumps.
 

From the cabi Spring 2016 collection, there are plenty of tops that would work perfectly for work with the Lido Skirt and Jacket:

• The flowy and feminine Bella Top
• The bright, bold, and fun Blossom Top
• The classic and flowing Plaza Top
• The gorgeous and sexy Vita Blouse
• The bohemian peasant-style Siena Blouse
• The striking chevron pattern Linea Cami
• The boutique-styled denim Bardot Shirt
• The subtlety fun and modern Martini Top
• The bright and comfortable U-Neck Tee
• The bold, fun, and striking Rita Top
• The lovely and colorful Plume Top
• The flattering and sophisticated Sleeveless Double Drape Tee

Which will you choose? Lido Jacket, Bella Top, Blossom Top,  Plaza Top,  Vita Blouse,  Siena Blouse, Linea Cami, Bardot Shirt,  Martini Top, U-Neck Tee,  Rita Top, Plume Top, Sleeveless Double Drape Tee, and the Lido Skirt.

Even more of the spring tops go, these are just some of my favorites (and I ran out of room in the image!).

For additional styling idea with both the jacket and skirt, check out Dress up Denim (post has styling tips), Lady-Like Wednesday (post).

Tips:

• Treat navy as a neutral. You may be surprised how well everything goes with it.
• Orange is a great contrast for navy and it adds a touch of fun to a color that can get serious. So consider pairing it with pieces like the Blossom Top, Rita Top and U-Neck Tee.
• Consider tops with navy in them for a more formal look and longer line, such as the Plaza Top and Martini Top.
• Or go all out with the navy or the Sleeveless Double Drape Tee for career column dressing at its best and a more formal look.  
• With the more formal navy suit, you can wear more casual tops and still have a great professional office look—consider the Bardot Shirt and U-Neck Tee (see Dress up Denim & the post for styling tips).

Either piece works well separately too, of course. Here are a few tips for each worn along.

Lido Skirt:

A navy pencil skirt a wardrobe essential. In fact, I’d say if you have one skirt in your closet it should be a navy pencil skirt (and ideally in ponte). This Lido Skirt has functional pockets (!!!) and a tiered hem for a bit of interest.

• A navy pencil skirt is perfect for work or evenings, and is the ideal day-to-night piece. Grab a jacket and put a sexy top underneath (maybe the Vita Blouse) and you are good for a day at the office and a night on the town.
• Pair with a black blazer or top for a very on trend and classic French look. Consider the Tivoli Top, Gathered Tee, Crop Top, and/or Sorrento Cardigan.
• You can easily add a bit of class and sophistication to casual blouses or any top you wear with it. Feel free to pair it with denim, flannel, and other casual styles to be comfortable and still professional (see Dress up Denim & the post).
• Career style is so easily with the Lido skirt. Just find a nice blouse or top and you are good to go. You can add a jacket in any color for a more formal career look—even other neutrals.
• Cardigans also look great with this skirt. Consider the Michelle Cardigan, Blanca Cardigan, or the Cobblestone Cardigan for a fresh spring office look.
• Pair it with navy & white stripes for a happening & classic nautical look, such as the Cruise Jacket.

Lido Skirt, Gathered Tee, Sorrento Cardigan, and the Villa Necklace from Cabi spring 2016. Shoes: Explosive by AeroSoles.  Artisan Marquis CufF and Bianca Earrings by Stella & Dot.

For additional outfits check out Denim Heat for a date night look (post has styling tips), Take Denim to Work for career (post with tips), Mixed Silver (post), Orange & Blue for career (post).

Lido Jacket

This is a sleek, modern jacket with figure flattering seems and functional pockets. The length should work regardless of your height.  It’s a perfect career piece.

• Create a suit with either the Lido Skirt or Capote Trouser.
• For a business casual look, throw it on over a nice blouse and slim jeans or slacks.
• Push the sleeves up for a more modern take (or warm days).
• Think of this as a fun & sophisticated layer—top a casual outfit or a sexy one.
• Throw it on as a jacket, especially when you want an extra bit of sophistication outdoors (show off at car pool!)
• Wear it closed for a simple sleek look (especially over the Lido Skirt or Capote Trouser)
• Wear it with bright jeans and a bright top to make the colors pop even more
• Pair it with navy & white stripes for a happening & classic nautical look, such as the Boat Stripe Tee or the First Mate Tee.
• You can create a lapel with this jacket simply by folding the collar down, as I did in the pictures--perfect for showing off that great blouse underneath.

Lido Jacket, Luisa Tank,  Citron Skinny Curvy or Regular, and La Belt  From cabi Spring 2016. Restricted Newport Flat at DSW. White Sea Glass Wire Wrapped Earrings by Shine Chaser Jewelry.

Lido Jacket, Boat Stripe Tee, Citron Skinny Curvy or Regular, Dolce Charm Earrings, Dolce Charm Necklace, all from cbai Spring 2016, along with the Layette sandals by Aerosoles.

For an other outfit, check out the Lovely Manic Monday spring outfit and the post that it is developed from for tricks and tips.

Want to buy? My first cabi show is still open, and I’d welcome your order. Please contact me in the comments or via email or my stylist (Joni Allen via email or phone: 770 502-5243 [call or text]) and we can get you set up. Any order you make will count toward my show total. For each $250 spent in my show, I get one half priced item. So, I’m be quite grateful of any orders!

Lido Skirt, Lido Jacket, Vita Blouse, Locket Necklace, Dolce Charm Earrings, and older neutral suede pumps.

Lido Skirt, Lido Jacket, Vita Blouse, Locket Necklace, Dolce Charm Earrings, and older neutral suede pumps.

Lido Skirt, Lido Jacket, Vita Blouse, Locket Necklace, Dolce Charm Earrings, and older neutral suede pumps.