Beyond POW: Versatile Layers for doing it all Saturday

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Outfit Mission Statement: On days where you have too much to do, choose versatile pieces that can adjust with you and add a bright pop for color

Play Day Saturday are clothes for taking your kids to the park, running errands, walking your dog , shopping, picnicking, traveling, going to a museum or a zoo, doing last minute holiday errands—out and about or home having fun clothes. These are the clothes you often live the best parts of your life in! The POW (Piece of the Week) is the Beyond Tee from cabi Fall 2016. This is a perfect day before Christmas outfit. Not only does it have a pop of red, but it is cute, cozy, and very practical. With the Spacedye M’leggings, you can assemble a bike, make cookies, wrap gifts, greet Santa, play the dreidel game, or make latkes. The leggings and skirt combo is practical, comfortable, and cute. The layers make it versatile, should your errands or bike building make you hot. The mix of dark neutrals makes the red pop without the harsher contrast of only black and red. All three garments in this outfit are adaptable, so you can make adjustments to change things up:

  • Cobblestone Cardigan: This fiery red color light and soft cardigan fully unzips in the back, so you can wear it zipped for a traditional cardigan look or unzip it for open back look and show off your cute top underneath, or in this case the knot and draping of the Beyond Tee. This is a great layer over any top that has a cool print, lace back, or other cool feature you want to show off. It adds an element of surprise and gives interest to your outfit coming and going.
  • Spacedye M’leggings: These skirted leggings are a great mix of leggings and a skirt. They have the style of a skirt with the ease of leggings. The skirt covers your butt and means you do not have to layer a tunic or longer to over the leggings, and it works whether you think leggings are pants or not pants! If you wear a tunic, the skirt tend to look like another layer, creating a long, multi-layered look, which you can see in some of these pictures. If you wear a shorter shirt, then it makes the skirt more obvious, giving you the skirt with matching tights look.
  • Beyond Tee: We all know how versatile this is, as it is the focus of POW 12, and I style it at least nine different ways. Check out the other posts, if you have missed the multiple ways you can wrap, drape, tie, and otherwise style this amazing ultra-versatile tee. In just this post, I show you three techniques for styling it!

 

Beyond Tee Styling Technique: Simple Back Tie

To enjoy the “Simple Back Tie” technique:

  1. Put it on the frontwards way with the tag in back for a lower neckline
  2. Take the two panels and wrap each back on its side—so wrap the right on around to your back on the right and left on the left
  3. Tie the two panels in back at about your natural waist
  4. Wear the tunic part of the tee as a tunic for an easy loose look

 

 

 

 

 

Beyond Tee Styling Technique: Double Tie

To flaunt the “Double Tie” technique:

  1. Put it on the frontwards way with the tag in back for a lower neckline
  2. Take the two panels and wrap each back on its side—wrap the right on around to your back on the right and left back on the left
  3. Tie the two panels in back at about your natural waist
  4. Make sure the tunic part of the tee is out (not tucked in) and pull it down over your leggings (or whatever) as a tunic
  5. Gather the tunic fabric on one side and knot it high on your hip for a sassier, slimming take on this tee

 

 

Beyond Tee Styling Technique: Hip Tie

To flaunt the “Hip Tie” technique:

  1. Put it on the frontwards way with the tag in back for a lower neckline
  2. Wear the tee with the tunic part of the tee down over your leggings (or whatever) as a tunic and the panels out and down in their natural state
  3. Gather the tunic fabric (not the panels) on one side and knot it high on your hip for a fun look with distinct layers
 

Tips:

  • On busy days, layer versatile, easy pieces that allow full ranges of motion and activities
  • Consider the legging and skirt look, whether a single garment or separate, for the style of a skirt and comfort of a leggings with no worries about your butt being covered!
  • If red and black are too stark a contrast for you, consider combining red with dark neutrals, such as dark grey, navy, along with black
  • If you are shy about bright colors, consider an otherwise neutral look with one bright pop in a blazer, cardigan, or accessory—that way you can always remove it if it feels like too much
  • If you have tops with cute backs, such as lace, prints, or a pretty fabric, consider one of the on-trend toppers that open in the lower back, such as this cardigan or a split back sweater
  • Layer two simpler necklaces for a polished, easy touch
  • Consider simple variations on your pieces to fit the day or to make adjustments based on what you are doing during the day, without needing to change your outfit
  • Do not be afraid of mixing dark naturals—but if you are not confident doing so, then mix a solid dark natural with subtle print/pattern dark neutral, such as a spacedye  

Outfit Breakdown:

 

 

 

If you would like the Beyond Tee or other cabi, 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.

Related Posts:

 

  1. Pleated Star POW: Cozy Cabled Rocky Coast Saturday: For a cozy take on a pleated skirt, add comfy pieces like a big cowl-neck sweater and suede boots
  2. Bardot POW: Casual, Easy Boho Saturday: For a distinctive, comfy, boho chic outfit, think outside the jeans box—wear flowy pull-on pants and a denim shirt instead.
  3. Love POW: Sweater Saturdays are Pretty Cozy: Start with a cozy sweater and add feminine and practical pieces for a casual, pretty, and lifestyle-friendly look

 

 

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: Working It Printed, Pleated & Classy Wednesday

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Outfit Mission Statement:  When you start with a dressy skirt, you don’t need to add a jacket to be profession, just a crisp blouse and sophisticated accessories

Working it Wednesday outfits are professional career clothes, often a step or two above Manic Monday outfits. The POW (Piece of the Week) is the Pleated Star Skirt from Canvas by Lands’ End. A pleated skirt can be a great formal office look with a jacket. But you do not need a jacket for a dressier office look. Instead, add classic and classy pieces, such as a white blouse, statement pearl necklace, sophisticated leopard print belt, and a nude suede pump for a professional take on the pleated skirt with panache.  

You’ll notice I added some extra flair with the on-trend wrapping of the button down top. Unlike what I had previously, this shirt, the cabi Fall 2106 It’s a Wrap Shirt, is designed so you can wrap it. There are some buttons that help and the shirt has a trapeze shape to accommodate his. You can also wear the top without wrapping it, for a looser trapeze style. It’s a fun, yet professional top that can easily be worn two very different, on-trend ways.

This star pleated skirt has a lot of office possibilities and can provide a fun career look that still remains professional. It also could be a fun wardrobe staple for a woman in politics.  She could rock the vote by wearing the skirt with a cardigan in more casual settings, a nice white shirt (like this), is more formal settings, a navy jacket in a debate, and a campaign tee shirt for fun. I’d vote for her (at last her wardrobe)!

 

Tips:

  • When starting with a dressy skirt, consider adding a crisp white blouse, and sophisticated accessories for a polished, profession look without a jacket
  • Look for versatile pieces that literally transform for an easier budget and time packing, such as this workhorse white blouse that can be a flowing trapeze style or chic wrapped blouse
  • With a standout print skirt and bold print belt, consider a nude pump to not distract
  • Add a bold belt to draw attention to and narrow the waist, especially when combining a white shirt and a white backed print
  • A crisp white wrap blouse will extenuate curves, giving you a more hourglass shape, while still looking professional
  • Remember what I said about leopard print (go for fine quality, not trashy)

 

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.

 

Related Posts:

  1. Bardot POW: Working It Wrapped, Classy Linen & Denim Wednesday posted June 08, 2016: Make your denim shirt work for work by pairing it with a classic neutral linen trouser and sophisticated accessories.
  2. Plume POW: Working It Classic & Modern Coco Wednesday posted April 06, 2016: Create a career outfit with the same put-together professionalism as a suit with a few modern interpretations of classic pieces.
  3. Go-To POW: Working It Classic Nautical Wednesday posted March 23, 2016: Combine the perfect black work trousers with a classic nautical jacket for chic, preppy, and professional look that implies success.

 

Or, learn how to work It in the other Working It Wednesday posts!

 

 

Pleated Star POW: Nautical On-trend Librarian Manic Monday

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Outfit Mission Statement: Mix a casual, graphic tank with a pretty skirt and classic cardigan for Manic Monday outfit

Manic Monday outfits are easy career clothes to throw on for manic Mondays. This Monday we focus on creating an easy, pretty and on-trend work outfit. The POW (Piece of the Week) is the Pleated Star Skirt from Canvas by Lands’ End. I think cardigans are perfect layers for easy Monday (or easy any day) career looks. They are likely more comfortable than a jacket and more forgiving of any weekend over indulgences. Anyone who has followed this blog may be surprised to learn that cardigans are a recent wardrobe addition for me. I did not used to wear them or even like them. They seemed too kindergarten teacher or librarian to me. Or at least for me. I respected a person who could rock a cardigan. Just on me they felt.. weird… stiff… something. No idea why. But then, I was convinced to buy a cabi cardigan, and I was sold. Now I have several, mostly cabi, but occasionally, I will add a pretty one of another brand, like this Target one. They are a perfect layering pieces and can work for anyone, not just kindergarten teachers or librarians (they just were smarter than me on wearing them).

This is another great transitional outfit. It would work wonderfully for summer, but also can rock for fall. The rope tank had a nautical feel, which is on trend for this fall (not just the Spring and Summer this year!). It gives it a fun, yet classic touch. The neutral color and textured pattern, gives it a refined feel, while toning down the tank and skirt.

I styled this with handmade jewelry for a more casual, natural feel, drawing on the beauty and uniqueness of the pieces. Feel free to dress this up more with statement pieces or even some pearls for a classier feel.

Tips:

  • Never rule out a category of clothing—try it on in several styles and brands and think about if it could work for you
  • Trade out your fitted jacket for a soft cardigan for a more casual and comfortable outfit
  • Add elements of a trend, like the rope graphic, to be on-trend but not overboard (no nautical pun intended), which may work better in a casual office environment
  • When wearing eye-catching prints (rope & stars for instance) in a more conservative office environment, keep your outfit colors to a more limited and neutral-heavy palette
  • For a more casual, natural style, wear handmade jewelry featuring beautiful natural stones and gems—this may remind you of the weekend and prompt conversations
  • A flat and bare legs works well for warmer temps, but consider tights and boots when the temps cool
  • Longer hair? Don’t feel like putting it up? Consider a headband to keep it out of your face
  • Take a casual, graphic tank and pair it with a pretty skirt and classic cardigan for business casual outfit with some fun

 

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.

 

Related Posts:

  1. Plaid POW: Manic Flannel Monday Posted February 22, 2016: For a cozy yet professional look, take one casual flannel and add lots of professional pieces
  2. Run Around POW: Elegant Layers and Brights Manic Monday Posted April 18, 2016: Combine a unique skirt with office classics in bright colors for a different, upbeat career look.
  3. Michelle POW: Manic Peasant in Ponte Monday Posted March 07, 2016: For a casual, yet professional, office look, consider ponte and a peasant blouse with your cardigan

 

Want more? Check out the other Manic Monday posts!

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

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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.

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.

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, 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.

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.

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!

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Destructed White POW: Working It Professional, High-End, Destructed Wednesday

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Outfit Mission Statement: Mix high-end, sophisticated pieces with your destructed jean for a rich, yet edgy, boardroom look

Working it Wednesday outfits are professional career clothes, often a step or two above Manic Monday outfits. The POW (Piece of the Week) is the cabi Spring 2016 Destructed Slim Boyfriend jeans. Destructed jeans may not be everyone’s idea of office appropriate. If this doesn’t work for your office, consider regular white jeans, white linen pants, or other white pants instead. As discussed in Pretty in Pink & Pearls Sunday Best, the trick to making destructed jeans work for dressier occasions, like work, is to combine it with dressier/more professional pieces, even over the top dressy/professional pieces.   High-end pieces with special details can be the way to do that. Think designer. Think quality. Think professional. The high-end Cruise Jacket is a perfect example of a classy, professional piece with rich details, like gold and enamel buttons. Even with destructed jeans, you can create a rich, boardroom-ready outfit by combining them with sophisticated and classy items.

 

Tips:

  • Mix destructed jeans with high-end, professional pieces that have rich details for a sophisticated, yet edgy, office look
  • Add a lux leopard print belt for a funky, yet classy touch
  • Mix sophisticated patterns, like a nautical stripe and classy leopard print, to add class and style
  • Grab a designer handbag for a polished finishing touch
  • Look for luxurious, but not loud, accessories to add further sophistication and affluence
  • Consider rich fabrics, like suede, faux animal hair, and luxurious woven fabrics to contrast with the rips
  • Style your hair in a sleek chignon for a smooth, put-together look
  • Combine different shades of white for on-trend sophistication

 

Outfit Breakdown:

 

 

If you want of these cabi pieces, contact your cabi stylist ASAP! The season is closing, but she may still be able to help you with samples or have 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 stylist, Joni Allen, via email or phone: 770 502-5243 [call or text]), or find a cabi stylist near you. 

 

Related Posts:

  1. Go-to POW: Working It Classic Nautical Wednesday posted March 23, 2016. Combine the perfect black work trousers with a classic nautical jacket for chic, preppy, and professional look that implies success.
  2. Bardot POW: Working It Wrapped, Classy Linen & Denim Wednesday posted June 08, 2016. Make your denim shirt work for work by pairing it with a classic neutral linen trouser and sophisticated accessories.
  3. Plume POW: Working It Classic & Modern Coco Wednesday posted April 06, 2016.  Create a career outfit with the same put-together professionalism as a suit with a few modern interpretations of classic pieces.

 

Not just for fireworks: Nine Versatile Pieces for your Fourth of July and Patriotic Wardrobe

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The Fourth of July is quickly approaching and many of us may be thinking about what we are going to wear.  Here are nine pieces you can buy now for a great Fourth of July look that will also work in your general wardrobe. A few of these I regularly wear to work!

 

1.  Kris Top: This cabi spring 2016 on-trend cropped (but not too short) top, has a crossover asymmetrical hem. It is a light navy knit—perfect for hot summer celebrations. Consider rocking it with some red shorts (such as the Picnic Short) and patriotic accessories (such as this Star Print Scarf!).  Or pair it with a pretty skirt!

2. Star Print Scarf: This festive and fun scarf has blue stars with pops of red ones. It works wonderfully for the Fourth, but can add a fun touch to any outfit year round. It pairs wonderfully with the picnic shorts and either the Kris Top or Striped Favorite Tank. It would also be fabulous over a red dress, blue dress, or white dress for a pop of patriotic.

 

 

 

 

3. Picnic Short: These cute cabi spring 2016 shorts have red, purple, and pink in them. With some blue or white they are perfect for the Fourth or other patriotic holidays, but always work perfectly with summer tops and tees. The subtle print mixes easily with stripes and other patterns.

4.  Striped Favorite Tank: This easy, casual tank by Merona at Target, is a great piece for a casual Fourth of July look. I love it with the patterns for the Picnic Short and Star Print Scarf for fun,  patriotic pattern play. You could also wear with white, denim blue, or red shorts. Or dress it ups with a fun skirt for the Fourth.

 

 

 

 

 

5.  Pleated Star Skirt: I love this skirt from Canvas by Lands’ End! It is so pretty, fun, and feminine. I also love stars and am delighted to find them on a work-friendly skirt! This skirt is perfect for a dressier Fourth of July celebration. It works well with the Sleeveless Double Drape Tee for this. Or dress it down with a tee and some causal shoes.  This is even on sale right now. Stay tuned for more on this skirt.

6.  Sleeveless Double Drape Tee: This is another cabi spring 2016 garment. It is an incredibly flattering tee that will add some “va va voom” to your fireworks. It dress up nicely, as shown with the Pleated Star Skirt. But you can rock with jeans, shorts, or whatever. It’s cute with the Picnic Short too!

7. Bow Ballet Flats: These timeless flats can add a pop of red (or blue) to your patriotic outfit, and also work every day. They are cute and comfortable. They work well with shorts, jeans, or a skirt. I love them with a mostly blue and white outfit, for a burst of red. I do suggest sizing up a half a size.

 

8. Butterfly Print Scarf: This pretty summery scarf by ITB Design can add blue and flow to your Fourth of July outfit. It’s large and works well as a warp when the temperature drop as you wait for fireworks. It can also be worn around the neck during the day, as I have shown with the Star Print Scarf. The butterfly deign works wonderfully for spring and summer. Consider wearing it over a red dress for a fun and unexpected Fourth look.

 

 

 

 

 
Cruise Jacket with older cabi tee, Target short, and Aerosoles shoes. Boston Red Sox hat.

Cruise Jacket with older cabi tee, Target short, and Aerosoles shoes. Boston Red Sox hat.

9. Cruise Jacket: This classic, high-end styled jacket is also one of my favorite cabi pieces of the Spring 2016 season. It easily works for a dressy Fourth of July look, but can also be a fun addition to a casual outfit, as I style it here. Consider rocking it with ripped jeans; linen pants in your favorite patriotic color; a navy pencil skirt; a red dress; or with a casual tee shirt, cut-off shorts, and a ball cap! I love rocking it casually. This nautical piece works wonderfully for the office or special occasion too—not just for fireworks!

 

 

 

 

 

If you want of these cabi pieces, contact your cabi stylist ASAP! I believe the season ends June 30th. 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. If you miss out, try contacting your stylist to see if she has samples or access to the retired season pieces.

 

 

Destructed White: It’s Terrific Being Green Thursday

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Outfit Mission Statement: Mix solid colors and play brights off white for pop of polished fun!

TTT Thursday outfits are Trendy, Transitional, and/or Terrific—in other words my choice. It can be whatever other outfit ideas the garment gave me. It may be something very trendy, transitional, terrific, or something else. The POW (Piece of the Week) is the cabi Spring 2016 Destructed Slim Boyfriend jeans. This week I focus on two—trendy and terrific. Bright colors are a trend and this jellybean green is certainly bright! Paired with these white jeans it even pops more. I added a few more trends—nautical navy stripes, denim-on-denim, and eyelets—all things that are very in. But, the real reason I choose this outfit is I love the top and blazer—the colors and style of both is fabulous. I wanted to show them off, and what better way than with two neutrals—a white and a navy?

The jacket was one of the first items I bought from cabi this season. I adore it. It’s a great lighter summer weight, but heavy enough it could work year round (at least in Georgia). The sleeves roll up nicely for the modern look. And it has these great bow details on the pockets (check it out on the cabi site, none of my pictures do it justice). Every time I wear this jacket I get multiple compliments.

The eyelet blouse is also a great piece. I love eyelets to begin with. But I really like how the eyelet pattern here is more modern and not the more feminine patterns I normally see—it’s almost a puzzle type of pattern. I also love the wide, forgiving shape of it. The wider straps are also nice—they easily cover bra straps, making this a great layering piece.

I combined them both with some favorite pieces—this fun bug necklace; my preppy, nautical stripe clutch; and these great espadrille wedges; plus, of course, these edgy jeans! The result is a fun, surprising, and very “me” outfit.

 

Tips:

  • Play bright colors off white jeans to give the colors even more pop
  • For a different, yet together & polished look, try mixing solids colors or very large patterns (like the striped clutch)
  • Want compliments? Wear great pieces you love
  • Don’t be afraid to dress in bright colors and a couple of neutrals—you do not need patterns to have fun with color
  • When creating outfits that are very “you” look for favorite pieces and see if they work—don’t be afraid to experiment (at the very least you will probably love it)
  • Look for pieces with unique features and details—like the box pockets and eyelet pattern—for a distinctive look that will draw attention and make you feel like a million bucks
  • When your outfit is a mix of solid colors, consider adding a fun statement necklace to add visual interest
  • I’ve said it before, and will say it again—consider rolling the sleeves on your jackets for a modern touch (and it keeps you a bit cooler in the summer heat)

 

Outfit Breakdown:

 

 

 
lookoffc.jpg

Related Posts:

 

  1. Plume POW: Whites Out Saturday posted April 16, 2016. Try out the whites trend by mixing various whites in one or more garments, your, shoes, and your accessories.
  2. Fall into Spring 4: Bring Your Navy Lace Forward into Spring and Summertime! Posted May 30, 2016
  3. Michelle POW: Flutter & Sea No Place Like Tuesday posted March 15, 2016. For a casual nautical look, limit the nautical, but add a flattering cardigan and white jeans for a comfortably on-trend and classic look.

And do not forget the other terrific TTT Thursday posts!

 

Destructed White POW: Take me out to the ballgame Tuesday

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Outfit Mission Statement: For a cool, casual, and stylish outfit for a ballgame (or any occasion where cool and comfortable is key), wear layers in the colors of your favorite team

No place like Tuesday outfits are casual, comfy clothes for working from home, working at home, parenting (at home), and anything else where comfort is key and you are home. Although they will work for errands and anything else casual. The POW (Piece of the Week) is the cabi Spring 2016 Destructed Slim Boyfriend jeans.  While Tuesday are my comfortable, casual “outfits for home” outfits, this one is more of a comfortable, casual outfit for going out to the ballgame—whether it be pro or your daughter’s softball league. But, never fear, this outfit also works for home too! Just remember, you can be stylish and comfortable at home or the ballgame! And, of course, nothing says casual and comfortable like these jeans!

 

Tips:

  • When you will be outside for several hours and may face greatly changing temperatures, chose layers that look great together and on their own
    • Consider a slouchy short-sleeve or half-sleeve sweater for a comfortable top layer (this one has a touch of silk, for the home run of can be comfortable and luxurious at the same time)
    • Add a tank top that covers your bra strap for a cool bottom layer that you can wear alone when it is hot
  • For ballgame dressing, show your team spirit by rocking your team’s colors
  • If you are going to be doing a lot of sitting, feel free to wear some fun heeled sandals, like these platform wedges
  • To add visual interest, make one of your layers a pattern—this works especially well for the bottom layer that can peek below or under the top layer(s)
  • When wearing a mix of the same colors (beyond black or white), go for contrasts, such as a lighter shade and a darker one
  • To keep a casual air (and support small businesses if you buy it), wear handmade jewelry
  • For sun protection and team spirit, top the look off with a baseball hat (Yes, this is a Red Sox hat. I’m from New England and they are still my home team, even after more than ten years in Atlanta)
    • This also is a great way to hide hair that should have been washed
    • It’s also a fun way to wear a pony tail—through the hole in the back

 

Outfit Breakdown:

 
See? It works without the sweater too!

See? It works without the sweater too!

Perfect for play ball with your kid too! (Although maybe different shoes for running)

Perfect for play ball with your kid too! (Although maybe different shoes for running)

 

Related Posts:

 

  1. Plume POW: Staying or Leaving Home Tuesday posted April 12, 2016. Travel in versatile, comfortable neutrals and add pops of color for fun and adventure.
  2. Go-To POW: No Place Like Tuesday for Sky & Earth Explorers posted March 29, 2016. Dress down those work-appropriate black pants with a boxy tee, explore vest, and handmade jewelry
  3. Michelle POW: Flutter & Sea No Place Like Tuesday March 15, 2016. For a casual nautical look, limit the nautical, but add a flattering cardigan and white jeans for a comfortably on-trend and classic look.

And checkout the other No Place like Home Tuesday POW posts!

 

 

Bardot POW: Trendy Denim-on-Denim Thursday

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Outfit Mission Statement: When wearing denim on denim focus on pieces in different washes, weights, styles, and features for an on-trend, fun look

TTT Thursday outfits are Trendy, Transitional, and/or Terrific—in other words my choice. It can be whatever other outfit ideas the garment gave me. It may be something very trendy, transitional, terrific, or something else. The POW (Piece of the Week) is the cabi Spring 2016 Bardot Shirt. I should probably just rename “TTT Thursday” “Trendy Thursday” because I seem to focus on the trends! I’m doing that again this time. I’ve mentioned the denim-on-denim (or double denim) trend in a few previous posts (here, here, and most recently here), but this time I am going to focus on it, in this trendy denim-on-denim outfit!

Honestly, denim on denim is not a look I thought I would try, at least not with multiple blue denims. Maybe with some other colors. But, this shirt makes it easy and even fun for me to follow this trend. The faded denim is easy to pair with jeans in anything but lighter faded colors—so anything with a medium to dark wash. Plus, the darker embroidery can complement a darker jeans, creating a more put-together look.

 

Tips:

When wearing blue denim on blue denim, keep a few tips in mind to rock the trend:

  • Choose denims in different washes or shades, such as a lighter and darker wash
  • Look for denims of different weights to provide nice contrast
  • Distressed or destructed jeans make a good bottom because the rips add some difference and contrast
  • Wear the lighter color on the body parts you most want to draw attention to and the darker on the body part you most want to slim or hide
  • Choose denim pieces with special features, such as the embroidery or the rips
  • Pair light chambray-style shirts with jeans for an easy “denim-on-denim” look because the fabrics are actually a bit different, giving you automatic differences in weight and color
  • Pop a red lip for some added fun
  • There are so many ways you can wear a denim or chambray shirt—I show it hear with a front tuck, a half tuck, and untucked and they each give a slightly different feel
  • When accessorizing:
    • Play up the feel of the denim with southwestern pieces (this especially works with the southwestern vibe of this shirt, but the denim-on-denim look often has at least a little of that vibe)
    • Play off the blue by adding more with your accessories
    • Or go for contrasts—choose accessories that are opposite the feel of the outfit (perhaps dressy accessories) or in strong non-blue colors (like orange)
    •  
    • Consider a statement necklace—the blue on blue outfit will make the necklace pop even more

Outfit Breakdown:

 

 

 

 

 

Front Tuck, but it looks like it could be a full tuck from the front

Front Tuck, but it looks like it could be a full tuck from the front

Half tuck

Half tuck

Untucked

Untucked

Related Posts:

  1. Bardot POW: Vibrant, Fun, Playing-in-the-Dirt Contrasts Tuesday posted May 31, 2016. Mix up the jean, tee, and shirt look by wearing bright colored jeans and a denim shirt for a fun, casual, vibrant look
  2. The Transitional cabi Jacket and Pants Pieces You Need Now: The Adventure Anorak and the Traveler Pant posted March 26, 2016
  3. The Transitional cabi Jacket & Jeans You Need Now: The Neo & Destructed posted March 12, 2016

 

Margherita POW: Working It Buttoned-Down Flowy Wednesday

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Margherita POW: Working It Buttoned-Down Flowy Wednesday

Outfit Mission Statement: Turn a sundress professional by wearing a white button-down shirt and a blazer over it

 

Working it Wednesday outfits are professional career clothes, often a step or two above Manic Monday outfits. The POW (Piece of the Week) is the cabi Spring 2016 Margherita Dress. In some ways this outfit plays off the concept we discussed last time—adding a blazer or cardigan to a sundress to make it work appropriate. To be even more professional, take it a step further: add a blouse too! In this outfit I am treating the sundress like a skirt and wearing a blouse and jacket with it. With a blazer and blouse, you can turn many a thing professional, especially this sundress. I love the blouse and jacket over the more casual flowy skirt with pockets—a touch of fun and flow with formality!

A white blouse is another wardrobe essential, make sure you have at least one. While you can use a variety of different cotton button-down blouses for this look, the white is more professional.

Tips:

 

 

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Plume POW: White & Bright Sunday Best

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Outfit Mission Statement: Look for comfortable, classy clothes you can dress up with  good pants and accessories

Sunday Best POW outfits are special occasion clothes for dinning, theater, opera, holiday parties, church, and other such occasions that need something special. The POW (Piece of the Week) is the cabi Spring 2016 Plume Top. This is a versatile special occasion outfits, as it could work for fine dining, church, theater, or even work! The best part is, it is a very comfortable outfit! The Plume Top, as an easy, tee shirt style to it. The Portico Shrug is in a soft yarn and has an easy open style. The linen pants have classic styles but the wide legs provide comfort and flow. The linen pants and statement accessories bring a higher level of dressy to this outfit, elevating it to special occasion worthy. It’s a lovely mix of colors that says both classy and spring.

Tips:

  • Yes, you can wear white year round!
  • Consider ways to layer similar length necklaces so they look like one complex necklace
  • Look for comfortable fabrics that move in your special occasion outfits, so you can actually enjoy yourself
  • Keep in mind that linen quickly gets wrinkles, as shown, which may preclude it from some special occasions
  • White is very on-trend right now, so find ways to pop this color, including wearing accessories with white in them
  • When mixing whites, it is okay if the whites vary a bit in shade and color, as shown here
  • White provides a lovely contrast to bright bold colors, like the bougainvillea of the shrug, showing off both colors for a bold look

Outfit Breakdown:

 
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Go-To POW: Denim on Top Saturday

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Outfit Mission Statement: Wear your denim on top with classic black pants for a casual, fun, and modern outfit with a touch of class

Play Day Saturday are clothes for taking your kids to the park, running errands, talking your dog for a walk, shopping, picnicking, travel, going to a museum or a zoo—out and about or home having fun clothes. These are the clothes you often live the best parts of your life in! The POW (Piece of the Week) the cabi Spring 2016 Go-To Trouser. This outfit makes me want to go to a fair or antiquing. It’s fun, comfortable, and stylish. Plus the layers help for regulating your temperature in cool antique shops and warm fairs. The classic yet modern black pants work well with the cropped styling for more casual dressing, while maintaining just a bit of sophistication. The denim shirt adds to the casualness of the outfit, but the funky embroidery gives it a classier take on the typical denim shirt. The pops of color in the shoes, scarf, and tank top add a bit of fun and even whimsy to the outfit. Together you have an overall fun, casual, and modern outfit with a touch of class.

 

Tips:

  • Twist up the "denim as usual" casual look by wearing a denim shirt and not jeans—still casual, but with more stand-out style
  • When working the denim and a neutral add pops of color to liven up the outfit
  • The popular layering of necklaces works beautifully for a scarf and a necklace—just make sure one is longer and they are not competing for the same space
  • Denim shirts scan be worn in many ways, which is part of the beauty of them:
    • Tying your denim shirt, as shown, adds a bit of flirty fun and emphasizes your waist (works better with slightly oversized or oversized shirts)
    • Wearing it open creates a more casual take on this outfit (works best with slightly oversized or oversized shirts)
    • Tucking it and buttoning it is a slightly more polished look (works best with a true-to-size shirt)

 

Outfit Breakdown: