Thursday, September 29, 2016

Ikat

The weather has cooled significantly here in Atlanta; autumn has arrived! I love the summertime so much that I've been in a bit of denial about the changing of the seasons... But even I can't avoid it any longer. The days are getting shorter, leaves are falling off trees and crunching beneath my feet whenever I walk the dogs, and the Starbucks barista no longer needs to ask "hot or cold" about my order: hot coffee season is here again!

Today's dress features a strong print, the Ikat scroll, and I just adore it. I like the use of the print in the different color hues, which is offset by the bands in black that have a truly slimming effect. The only negative about this dress is the zipper: It was so hard to zip up! I read some other reviews of the dress and apparently that's a common complaint regarding this particular style. Too bad Chapin always leaves for work before me; I could have used his help this morning!


Dress: BCBGMaxAzria Donatella Ikat Scroll Sheath Dress

You can find the dress at the following retailers:


Sandals: Kate Spade New York Idelle Ankle Strap Dress Sandals

These sandals have a unique pattern on the heels, which is why I chose to wear them with this dress. You can see the pattern more clearly in the photo below.


Work has been super busy lately, but of course I still find time for my books, music and Netflix addiction. Here's what I've been obsessing over lately:

Books: I'm actually reading three books simultaneously, via three different methods. I'm enjoying all three!

Listening to: Who Do You Love, by Jennifer Weiner

I recently had to go to Augusta for work, and bought the audio version of this novel for the long car ride. The book follows its two main characters, Rachel and Andy, from childhood into adulthood, after they meet as 8-year-olds in a hospital waiting room and reconnect years later as teenagers. The novel is told from both points of view, and since the characters have completely different backgrounds, it adds an extra layer to what could have been a predictable meet-cute-and-fall-in-love story. I look forward to seeing how it all comes together in the end.

Reading (in actual printed form): Here's to Us, by Elin Hilderbrand

All of Elin Hilderbrand's novels take place on her home of Nantucket, so her books make for perfect summer reading. I've dreamed of going to Nantucket ever since my sister, Gail, and I started binge-watching Wings (before there was such a word) as teenagers. (The reruns aired back-to-back on the USA network during the 90s.) We loved all the characters -- well, maybe not Roy -- and I had a huge crush on Steven Weber, who played Brian Hackett. 

Anyway, this novel takes place on Nantucket, where a family comes together to grieve the loss of its patriarch, a celebrity chef named Deacon Thorpe. I love Elin Hilderbrand because she clearly takes time to understand her characters inside and out before she puts pen to paper; they are all fully drawn, endearing, real. This novel has been interesting because each chapter is told from a different point of view, and there are a lot of players: two ex-wives, two adult children, a best friend... Each brings a different perspective of Deacon, and, of course, each person has their own problems beneath their grief. I am truly engrossed.


My friend, Elizabeth, gave me this book years ago, and I don't know why I waited until now to start reading it. I think in the back of my mind I thought it would be sub-par to the TV series and movie, but it's not -- it's been so much fun to be back in Veronica's world. The writing is witty, and the characters are as real to me as if I'm watching the actors on the small screen. The mystery itself has been interesting as well. If you're a fan of Veronica Mars, you will like this book, and I plan to buy the next one as well.

Listening to: The 1975

I recently picked up the band's new album -- I like it when you sleep, for you are so beautiful yet so unaware of it -- and there are a few tracks I'm just obsessed with. At the top of the list: Somebody Else, which is getting some radio play, so you may have heard it. If not, definitely check it out.

Watching: TBD

I just finished Fringe, so I'm on the hunt for a new TV show I can stream while I run on the treadmill in the mornings. Stay tuned!

Tuesday, September 27, 2016

With Sugar on Top

With its floral detailing and fit-and-flare silhouette, this dress from Erin Erin Fetherston is one of the daintier additions to my closet, and I just love the big pouf of the skirt. (It's really quite fun.) The dress is probably better suited for an outdoor wedding reception or bridal/baby shower, but I wore it to the office today; I will always love dressing up for work. It makes me feel pretty.


Dress: Erin Erin Fetherston Floral Somerset Fit and Flare Dress

Buy the dress at Amazon or Erin Fetherston's retail site, or you can rent it at Rent the Runway. The dress is actually quite comfortable, and honestly... it's really beautiful in person. I adore the print, and it's very well made. I feel so sweet in it!

Erin Erin Fetherston dresses retail for around $300-$400, but you can find them heavily discounted on sites like Amazon and Dillard's. You just have to be patient and wait for the good sales.

Shoes: Casadei Croc-Embossed Leather Slingback Pumps in Gold (no longer available)

It's hard to believe September is almost over, because I definitely don't feel ready for colder weather yet. I figured I'd better wear this dress now while it's still hot and summer-like out. I think a cold front is on its way.

Thursday, September 22, 2016

Scalloped

Both the shoes and dress in my outfit today have a scallop trim. I love when things nicely match up like that.


Dress: Camilyn Beth Scalloped Fit and Flare Daria Dress in Baby Blue

This brand is brand new to me - ha! - but I just immediately gravitated toward this scalloped dress when it turned up on RueLaLa.com. It's totally me, right? (Turns out, the brand is only a few years old, having launched in 2014.)

According to the official CamilynBeth.com website, all garments are made here in the United States (hooray!), and the brand's overall style is classic and timeless with a modern twist. It actually reminds me a lot of Nanette Lepore: a bit preppy, definitely feminine, yet still sophisticated.

If you like this dress, but don't want to show off your arms, there's also a short-sleeve version. The bust on this dress runs a little big and tends to pucker out, so the short-sleeve option may be a good choice for those with smaller chests.

Where you can buy Camilyn Beth apparel:

Sandals: Coach Monica Scalloped Ankle Strap Sandals

It's hard to believe today is the first day of Autumn. I definitely prefer warmer weather to cold, so I'm a little wistful as I lament the passing of another summer. Although I worked a good bit, I did enjoy myself, too... and I have the flip-flop tan to prove it. Happy Fall, y'all!

Monday, September 19, 2016

Style on a Budget

My entire outfit today, this BCBGMaxAzria dress plus the black caged Schutz sandals, cost under $50. I bought both pieces on Amazon. If you're patient, many designer dresses, shoes, tops and much more end up getting greatly reduced on the retail giant's website You just have to watch and see...

But a warning about Amazon: The retailer won't price match if you've already purchased the item, and if it goes on sale after you bought it, you'll rarely get a refund. This happened to me recently and I ended up just returning the item and re-buying it at the reduced price. I saved around $40!


Dress; BCBGMaxAzria Ane Knit A-Line Dress

In addition to Amazon Fashion, you can find the dress on sale at BCBG.com.

Sandals: Schutz Debbie Caged Sandals

This dress is about as boho as my style will ever get. I would not normally gravitate toward this type of outfit, but the dress just looked so comfortable (and it is). I knew today I would be heads down working on a bunch of different things, and I just didn't feel like being in something too binding. This dress was perfect to get me through a hectic workday.

Friday, September 16, 2016

Friday Fun Dress

It's finally Friday! I'm in a more casual dress for this casual day of the week.

Dress: Shoshanna Trish Woven Stripe Dress


I found this dress at a wonderful little shop near my nail salon in Inman Park: Mint by Sandpiper. They sell a mix of consignment items and new dresses like this one above... and usually the items are heavily reduced. If you're in the area, definitely check it out.

Here's the dress at Saks Fifth Avenue in the same woven stripe pattern - it almost looks like fringed bows to me - but in a short sleeve silhouette. It's also available at Amazon and Lord and Taylor.

Shoes: Manolo Blahnik BB 105 Metallic-Striped Leather Pumps

Speaking of fringe, I've been binge watching the TV show, Fringe, for the last month or so, and am completely hooked. I just started the last season, and it takes place in the year 2036. I needed something in the sci-fi vein after falling for Stranger Things, so I've been really enjoying the series. I have to watch something engaging while I run on the treadmill, so if you have any suggestions, let me know. I don't have too many Fringe episodes left.

Have a great weekend!

Wednesday, September 14, 2016

Transitioning to Fall

The weather is starting to cool just a tiny bit here in Atlanta, and I feel like today's dress - black with floral detailing - is a great dress to start making that transition into Fall. 


Dress: French Connection Samba Daisy Fit and Flare Dress

Shoes: Manolo Blahnik Didin Wrap-Around Leather Sandals in Pink (no longer available)

Although I steamed the dress this morning before I put it on, it still looks so wrinkled. Oh well! I should not expect much from French Connection dresses. They are always cute and chic, but they aren't well made. Take my advice: NEVER pay full price for French Connection.

Celebrity Sighting!

The dress was seen on a season three episode of iZombie.

Monday, September 12, 2016

Still Summer

Technically, it's still summer, so -- for now -- I am relishing wearing sundresses and sandals to work. I didn't have any formal client meetings today, so I felt fine wearing something a little more casual to start the week.

Eva by Eva Franco Madie Dress

Dress: Eva by Eva Franco Madie Striped Blue and Yellow Fit and Flare Dress

Eva Franco dresses are almost always extremely feminine, and this dress is no exception. The delicate neckline is my favorite detail, as is the cute striped pattern. I don't have too many dresses in a blue and yellow color scheme. You can still buy the dress at AnthropologieZappos.com and Dillards.com, and here is a similar Eva Franco dress in a striped pattern. Dillard's has been having some great deals lately, so keep an eye out.

Sandals: Coach Monica Scalloped Ankle Strap Sandals

I had a very relaxing weekend, although Chapin did have to work most of Saturday. We treated ourselves to dinner out Saturday night at Bocado, an American restaurant close to our house that is well known for its French fries. I had such a craving! The Garlic Herb fries at Bocado are definitely worth a visit if you're a French fry connoisseur... and the rest of the food isn't bad either. (wink, wink)

Sunday, we had my parents over to our house for dinner. Chapin cooked an amazing meal: chicken, roasted potatoes and carrots, rice and mushrooms, and broccolini with crushed red pepper and Pecorino Romano cheese. (Chapin has to find innovative ways to get me to eat vegetables. He is a very good husband.) I also helped out, making chocolate chip-toffee-oatmeal cookies for dessert. Cookies are definitely my favorite gluten-free treat. I just change out flour for gluten-free flour in any cookie recipe, and they come out tasting relatively the same. Even my dad likes them, and that's saying a lot.


Wednesday, September 7, 2016

Red Sparkle

I fee like I've been wearing a lot of blue lately, so today, I decided to grab something red from my closet: this bold Shoshanna dress.


Dress: Shoshanna Annika Dress in Flame

The dress, also available at 6pm, with its little flounce at the bottom, is a slightly different take on a more traditional sheath dress. The fabric is also so much fun: red tweed with a little sparkle. It looks amazing up close.

Shoshanna.com is having an amazing sale right now. You can find $300 dresses for under $80, and some for under $40! Check it out (before your size sells out).

Sandals: Jimmy Choo Lang Sandals in Flame

This "flame" color is a cross between red and orange, and I like that's a little more subdued than a standard red. With this color, if you don't have a lipstick that matches almost exactly, go with a nude lip. I don't look the best in orange-y lipsticks, so that's what I did here. I did my eye makeup a little darker than usual, too, to offset the lighter colored lip.

There's been a strong "no makeup" trend lately, but you won't see me leave the house without at least some foundation and concealer (except maybe to walk my dogs). I like makeup, and I enjoy experimenting with different looks. Like I always say about fashion: have fun with it. As long as you're comfortable and confident, nothing else matters.

Tuesday, September 6, 2016

Blue BCBG

I'm coming off a super relaxing Labor Day weekend, where I slept a ton and barely left the house. Sometimes you just need time at home to reset. Plus, I had to break in our gorgeous new couch from Roger and Chris! (I've been binge watching Fringe on Netflix.)


I'm purposefully wearing blue today because someone in my life just found out she's expecting a boy (no, of course it's not me)! I am so excited to meet this little guy next year.

Dress: BCBGMaxAzria Kamara Blue Square Neck Fit and Flare Dress


The dress is still available online at the following stores:

  • Amazon (in both the blue and port wine colors)
  • BCBG.com (limited sizes)

Celebrity Sighting!
The dress was worn on daytime soap, Days of Our Lives.

Here is a similar style in the same color.

Sandals: Schutz Women's Margo Dress Sandals

My sister, Gail, gave me an Amazon gift card for my birthday, and I put it toward buying these sandals. Honestly, these sandals are much more chic and fun than most sandals in my closet. I definitely have more traditional/ classy taste when it comes to footwear, but I saw these sandals and knew I had to have them.

Schutz is a great lower priced brand with up-to-date styles; even celebrities take a break from their Manolos to wear Schutz shoes every once in awhile. You can find Schutz online at retailers like Amazon, Saks, Zappos and many more.