My Holiday - 2019 Edition

Here it is: my last dress of the year -- of the decade! 2020 is just a few days away.

Outfit Details

Dress: Alice + Olivia Marta Mock Neck Midi Dress (sold out)

Shoes: Valentino Rockstud Crisscross d'Orsay Pumps

I just adore this dress -- the mock neck and flutter sleeves are very 'me'. I chose these bright metallic pumps to break up the darkness of the print a little bit, and I like the juxtaposition of hard (the studs) and soft (the floral pattern).

You may also notice a new accessory on my arm: my Christmas gift, a Prada purse! I still can't believe it's mine. Chapin got it on sale at RueLaLa!

Our Christmas was lovely, filled with family time and cherished moments. Here are just a few photos from Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.

Wearing a beautiful Black Halo red velvet dress (and posing with the hubby) on Christmas Day.

With my sister, Gail.

Christmas Eve - Posing with Tulip and Chapin (and wearing Kay Unger).

Norman in his Christmas sweater.

Tulip -- Looking adorable in her Christmas dress.

Wally -- So devilishly handsome in his reindeer sweater.

The Peppermint Bark Chocolate Cake I made for my family.

Almost Christmas

I'm feeling ready for Christmas in this star-print sweater dress from Ted Baker! I still have baking to do and a few last presents to wrap, but otherwise I'm ready to really celebrate the holidays. Chapin and I are kicking things off tonight with dinner with my sister, Gail, and her husband, Rich.

Outfit Details

Dress: Ted Baker London Mariae Star Jacquard Knit Dress

On sale now at Ted Baker!

Shoes: SJP by Sarah Jessica Parker Witness Dress Pumps (no longer available)

Festive Dress for the Holidays

We had our holiday party today at my office, so of course I had to wear a festive dress for the occasion. I chose this beautiful emerald green Sandro dress; the color is perfect for the season!

Outfit Details

Dress: Sandro Claudia Swiss Dot Dress (no longer available)

Shoes: SJP by Sarah Jessica Parker Infinity Pumps

Local Marketing, Inc. Office Holiday Party - December 18, 2019

Tapered

How can I look so tired on a Monday?! I didn't catch up on a lot of sleep this past weekend, so I guess that's why. We had a lot going on, and I ended up having to work most of the day on Sunday. I guess it's early to bed for me tonight!

Today's dress is one I almost didn't buy, but I'm glad I did. I got such a great deal on it, although I wish I would have sized down. The fabric is thick and bunches a little on the sides. The shoulders are "strong" (read: padded), and I love the illusion of a tapered waist. It's sparkly and festive and oh so flattering!

Outfit Details

Dress: Alice + Olivia Adelaide Sheath Dress

Shoes: SJP by Sarah Jessica Parker Taylor Closed Toe T-Strap Pumps (no longer available)

It's hard to believe Christmas is next week. I am so not done with my shopping! EEK!

La Vie

I'm excited today to be wearing one of my favorite types of dresses: the long-sleeve dress. I am a big fan of long-sleeve dress and wearing long-sleeve tops with shorts. I feel so comfortable that way!

Today's dress is one that I coveted for a long time before finally buying. I love the colors, cut and overall look of the dress; it's a great addition to my closet.

Outfit Details

Dress: La Vie Rebecca Taylor Faded Garden Dress (no longer available)

La Vie was launched just a few years ago, and as it's a brand targeted at the working woman, it's filled with pieces that are more subdued and tailored (and oftentimes more affordable) than what you'll find in the main Rebecca Taylor collection. There are more comfort pieces, too, like soft t-shirts and cute rompers. (I have loved so many things from Rebecca Taylor lately, but I have to wait until they go on sale to buy anything.)

Shoes: Jimmy Choo Lancer 85 Strappy Patent Leather Pumps in Nude (no longer available)

It's been a long week, so I'm glad tomorrow is Friday. We have a busy weekend ahead, though. I guess I can relax when the holidays finally get here.

Happy Shopping!

Searching for Spring

I know it's not even officially winter yet, but today has been so dreary that I'm already dreaming of spring. I guess that's why I chose this beautiful floral dress from Shoshanna to wear to work today. I remember waiting so patiently to buy this dress so I could get it on sale; I just love it!

Outfit Details

Dress: Shoshanna Amora Dress (no longer available)

As seen on Kelly Ripa and Amy Robach during morning TV:

Shoes: Jimmy Choo Shar 85 Leather Sandals in Ballet Pink

Loving Those Stripes

I've been loving BCBGMaxAzria's latest collection of dresses, which is heavy on stripes and body con designs. This latest dress has a very flattering neckline, small flutter sleeves and a ruffled hem, making it super chic for work, weekend outings and more.

Outfit Details

Dress: BCBGMaxAzria Striped Ruffle-Hem Dress

The dress is still available at several online retailers -- and it's on sale! Find it at BCBG.com, Neiman Marcus Last Call and Saks Off 5th.

Shoes: SJP by Sarah Jessica Parker Giddy Dress Sandals (no longer available)

Body Con Black

This body con LBD is chic and professional, yet still shows off your curves, so it's perfect for work -- and after work -- engagements. It's simple but still has some surprise design elements, like the higher neck, cleavage cutout and little flutter sleeves.

Outfit Details

Dress: Bailey 44 Bewitched Cutout Body Con Dress

Unfortunately, both the dress and shoes are no longer available. But you can still shop for a little black dress on the Bailey 44 website, or browse the brand's full collection on websites like Bloomingdale's.

What I love most about an LBD, aside from making you look slim and fabulous, is that they tend not to go out of style. An LBD is a great investment piece, one you can definitely plan to wear for years to come.

Bailey 44 is not actually an expensive brand, though. Most dresses retail for around $200, and go for much less on sale.

Shoes: Prada Patent Leather Cap-Toe Pumps in Nude and Black

Chapin bought me these pumps last Christmas, and they are ideal for work, going with just about everything. Prada pieces tend to be so classic -- another great investment piece. What's on your wish list this Christmas? Leave a comment and let me know!

Chill

It's so cold in Atlanta! Today's dress is one of many new long-sleeve dresses I have recently added to my closet. It's one of my favorite looks for winter. I don't mind bare legs -- but give me sleeves, please!

Outfit Details

Dress: Maje Ralina Fit and Flare Dress (options available on eBay)

Shoes: SJP by Sarah Jessica Parker Fawn Pumps in Pewter Prismatic

I know the shoes seem like an odd pairing with the dress, but the prism pattern picks up reddish hints from the fabric, making for a beautiful effect.

I look exhausted today, probably because I didn't get enough sleep last night. Am I the only one who feels off every time there's a full moon?

Step Into the Sun

Happy Monday! I feel like I got so much done this past weekend, even though it wasn't really much. Highlights include brunch at Buttermilk Kitchen, seeing Terminator: Dark Fate with some friends, baking chocolate chip-walnut-banana bread, finishing a book (The Islanders) and spending some good quality time with the hubby and our dogs. I love being a mom to three pugs, even though I will never get to sleep in again. Tulip is usually up by 5:30 a.m. -- demanding her breakfast -- no matter what day of the week it might be!

Today's dress is one I thought I would wear while the weather is still decent. Although the mornings have been cold, by afternoon it's in the 60s... but that all changes tomorrow when an Arctic Blast moves in. UGH!

Outfit Details

Dress: Kate Spade New York Poppy Field Shirt Dress

The dress is cute and comfortable, and I love the bold floral pattern and ruffled edges. It's definitely a "me" dress!

You can still buy the dress on the Kate Spade website or 6pm.com.

Shoes: Prada Bow Tie Platform Sandals (no longer available)

P.S. Since today's dress is called Poppy Field, I immediately thought of that scene from The Wizard of Oz where Dorothy and her friends must trek through a field of poppies to get to the Emerald City. The name of today's post is a lyric from the song that plays when they finally head to that infamous gate.

Sporty Spice

I'm feeling so sporty today in this polo dress from the Parker brand! The dress is super comfortable and perfect for this crazy busy day in the office.

I also wanted something comfortable because I'm feeling so off today... I didn't sleep well, then struggled through my entire morning workout. Hopefully I can get some rest tonight! I hope I'm just feeling this way because of the time change and not because I'm getting sick. Ugh.

Outfit Details:

Dress: Parker Monty Knit Polo Dress

Shoes: Stuart Weitzman Soundtrack High Heel Sandals (no longer available)

80s Throwback

This dress immediately takes me back to my preteen days in the late 1980s, when ruffled skirts were all the rage. I love the modern twist that the Alice + Olivia brand has given this simple little black dress (LBD), with a sheer neckline, fitted bodice and short hem. It's probably more suited to a cocktail party than the office, but I just have to consider my work my own private runway. Where else would I wear such a fabulous dress?

Outfit Details:

Dress: Alice + Olivia Janice Ruffled Black Dress (no longer available)

Shoes: Jimmy Choo Bronx Black and Gold Buckle Sandals

Milestone Celebration

This past weekend, Chapin and I celebrated a fairly huge milestone: two decades together! This month marks 20 years since Chapin and I had our first date, and 16 years since we got married.

We decided to celebrate at a local restaurant called Arnette's Chop Shop. We both wanted to try it just because of the name, but the food was also supposed to be very good.

I started off with the Louie Salad, which is appropriate since Chapin's first name is Louie! It's a seafood salad, with bits of crab and shrimp, so of course I loved every bite. It's a fairly large salad, though, so next time I will probably get another starter. I worried if I finished it, I would not be hungry for the next course!

I had the tuna special for my entree, which was fabulous. Chapin started off with the Wagyu Beef Ribs and had a steak special for his main meal. He only eats red meat a few times a year, almost always when we go out for a nice dinner, so don't think he eats like this very often. ;)

For our sides, we agreed on two: the Loaded Twice Baked Potato and the Brussels Sprouts with Smoked Bacon & Apples. Chapin said just about everything on the menu had bacon, and he was right -- even a dessert!

The staff was extremely welcoming and even the owner came over to say hello. He wanted to meet this other Arnett!

And finally... dessert! The staff brought us a chocolate flourless cake with espresso ice cream for our special anniversary dessert, and then I topped that off by ordering the Chop Shop Sundae! Ice cream is my weakness!

We got a huge bowl with a scoop each of chocolate, vanilla and strawberry ice cream, then three "sauces" (caramel, hot fudge and strawberry), then a variety of little bowls of toppings. There was everything from sprinkles and Oreo crumbles to the aforementioned bacon! It was heaven.

I'm glad Chapin and I could celebrate our anniversary doing what we love best: eating and drinking! Ha!

Fashion Details:

Dress: Black Halo Bowery Ruched Floral Velvet Dress

Shoes: Jimmy Choo Emily Crisscross Platform Sandals in Ballet Pink Metallic

Rosy Outlook

I didn't get a chance to wear this dress over the summer, so I'm wearing it now while the temperatures are still nice. The high today is 76 degrees in Atlanta -- just beautiful!

Dress: BCBGMaxAzria Rose Bloom Floral Lace Dress

The dress is so feminine, with an old-fashioned rose floral print on a very modern silhouette. The square-neck neckline is sexy -- in a subtle way -- with a handkerchief hemline that completes the look.

The look is a combination of all my favorite dress attributes: comfortable, chic and ultra flattering.

As for sizing: I'm wearing an XS for reference. BCBGMaxAzria tends to run big, so I would size down if you're between sizes.

Shoes: Manolo Blahnik Khan Clear Strap Sandals in Gold

The clear style seems to be sold out, but you can find this same shoe in a variety of other options at stores like Bergdorf Goodman online.

Necklace: Kendra Scott Elisa Silver Pendant Necklace in Dichroic Glass

Weekend Update

As it's Monday, here are some highlights from my weekend:

• Chapin and I went out Saturday night to our favorite local Mexican restaurant, Zama, to split a plate of nachos (our weakness) and enjoy some drinks -- beer for him, margaritas for me!
• Sunday, I had the opportunity to meet the author of Sex and the City, Candace Bushnell, at an event moderated by Atlanta writer Emily Giffin, whom I have met off and on throughout the years. It was a fun night!

With Candace Bushnell, wearing a Shoshanna Dress

With Emily Giffin - You can see my SJP shoes in this photo!

Over the Head

The only thing I don't like about today's dress? There is no zipper! Since I put on all my makeup, including lipstick, before finally getting dressed, anything that has to go over the head poses a potential makeup-smudging-on-clothes problem. Fortunately, I managed to get the dress over my head without incurring any damage. Phew!

Dress: Maje Rayom Daisy Print Eyelet Dress

The dress is lightweight, and perforated in this eyelet pattern all over, so you must wear a white slip underneath (it comes with the dress). Overall, it's very comfortable, and ideal for crisp Fall days that are a little on the chilly side -- like today!

I also adore the long puffed sleeves. Long-sleeve dresses are getting easier to find, but they still probably make up less than 10% off my closet.

Shoes: SJP by Sarah Jessica Parker Strut Dress Sandals (no longer available)

Red Warrior

I'm gearing up for a busy week, so I thought I would start things off in a bold color. Red is such an attention-grabbing hue, and when it's paired with a unique silhouette, it makes for such a memorable ensemble.

Outfit Details

Dress: Shoshanna Giana Ruffle Sheath Dress (no longer available)

Shoes: Jimmy Choo Romy Embroidered Satin Pumps (no longer available)

I wasn't feeling that great this past weekend -- the changing weather, going from temperatures in the 90s to the 40s, makes my head hurt with the pressure -- so I tried to rest and relax as much as possible. Sometimes you need that downtime to be at your best!

Our fridge died, so one of the highlights of my weekend was picking out a new one. It was delivered today!

I also hit a new PR (personal record) on the Peloton bike for a 45-minute ride. I have been loving the Tabata rides from Robin Arzon. She really gets my heart rate up.

• Output: 537
• Calories Burned: 444

I really feel like I get more out of the bike than any other cardio machine. I've been working out consistently for almost 20 years now, so at this point, I'm fairly fit. I have a slow heart rate, and it takes a lot to wear me out. Even running... I definitely don't burn as many calories in the same time frame. If you want to switch up your workout routine, I definitely recommend this bike.

Feeling Like Fall

It's mid-October and it's now truly starting to feel like Fall. I just want to enjoy this mild weather while I can. Even though today's high is 78, I still felt it was time to bring my long-sleeve dresses out of hibernation... like this beautiful floral dress from Parker.

 

Outfit Details

Dress: Parker Brooke Floral Long-Sleeve Dress

I adore the teal color -- it's so on trend right now -- and the design is ultra flattering. The dress is also really comfortable, so it's perfect for the office. Mondays are always so busy for me, so it's nice to wear something that isn't binding on these stressful days.

Shoes: Sophia Webster Andie Bow 100 High-Heel Sandals

These shoes exemplify why women love shoes -- they are so gorgeous and chic. I have been loving the designs from Sophia Webster lately, so hopefully more styles will go on sale soon. You really have to keep an eye out for a good deal on this brand.

Jailhouse Hot

I guess I'm sticking with stripes this week! This Parker dress is casual and chic, but does remind me a little of an old fashioned prisoner outfit.

Outfit Details

Dress: Parker Penny Striped Knit Dress

The dress is so comfortable, made of a knit material that shows off your curves. I'm wearing my normal size in this brand, a small, but it's a little big since the material stretches so nicely!

Shoes: Prada Black and White Striped Bow Pumps (no longer available)

I sure went matchy-matchy today with the shoes and dress both being striped, but that's how I roll.

It's Finally Sweater (Dress) Weather!

It finally feels like Fall, which means I am not sweating profusely the moment I step foot outside. Today's dress is still sleeveless, but it's made of a heavier, sweater-like material that is perfect for this grey day in Atlanta.

Outfit Details

Dress: BCBGMaxAzria Dotted Stripe Body Con Dress

While horizontal stripes aren't the best choice for a body con dress, I was drawn to the flattering details and overall design and color scheme.

You can find the dress at several online retailers, including the BCBG website, Lord & Taylor and Saks Off 5th.

I know the dress is a little casual, but hopefully the fancy pumps help dress it up a bit!

Shoes: SJP by Sarah Jessica Parker Arielle Suede Pumps

The photos really don't do a good job showing off the beauty of these shoes! I just love them. They are sparkly in the front and have sparkly heels, too! I love a girly shoe.

Weekend Update:

Since it's Monday, here's a quick rundown on what I did this weekend. It wasn't much... which is a good thing:

• I slept -- a lot. Saturday morning I slept in until 11 a.m. Getting 12 hours of sleep is a rarity for me.
• I finished Demi Moore's book, Inside Out: A Memoir. I gave it three stars. I enjoyed it, but felt she could have revealed a lot more. For example, I was interested to know about how she built her career, how she made certain choices and why.
• Chapin and I finished the Netflix show, Unbelievable. It's very compelling, and very relevant in today's "Me Too" society. It's definitely worth a watch, though you won't want to binge it all at once -- it's too heavy for that. I think we watched two episodes at a time. There are only eight total, so you'll still finish fast. 
• Chapin cooked for me both Saturday and Sunday nights. He is such an amazing chef. I am so lucky he's my husband.

Allison

TGIF! It's been a long week, so I'm extra glad today is Friday. As you can see from my face, I am exhausted; I have been stressing about work and not really sleeping well as a result. I'm looking forward to a restful and relaxing weekend.

Today feels like the unofficial last day of summer, even though it's October 4th. The last few weeks have been so hot in Atlanta, but temperatures are supposed to cool down starting tomorrow. I can't wait. 

Outfit Details

Dress: ALLISON New York Cotton Stripe Maxi Dress

This dress is my first from the ALLISON New York brand. I was drawn to the neckline, the sweet, ruffled straps (adjustable!) and the overall look; it's the perfect dress to wear on a hot day, when you want something light, airy and just really comfortable. (It's also ideal for a more casual Friday at the office!) I will definitely buy the brand again! #ALLISONGIRLS

Shoes: Loeffler Randall Miranda Espadrille Wedge Sandals

These shoes are no longer available, but you can shop espadrilles and other sandals on the brand's website.

Cornflower Blue

I was mostly drawn to this dress due to the color; isn't it an amazing shade of blue? It reminds me so much of the Cornflower Blue straight out of a box of Crayola crayons.

Outfit Details

Dress: Kate Spade New York Flora Dress

I bought the dress on sale, mostly because I knew the fit would be slightly off at the top. Anytime you have something fancy around the armpits, even a detail as small as scalloped edges, it just never works. Overall, though, it's just a pretty dress, so the benefits do outweigh that one flaw.

Shoes: SJP by Sarah Jessica Parker Infinity Pumps

The shoes are sold out, but here's a very similar style.