Spirited

There's nothing that says holiday like a bold red dress! I paired this Black Halo design with these sparkly SJP pumps for a fun holiday work style just a few days before Christmas.

Outfit Details

Dress: Black Halo Antoinette Dress in Bonfire Red

The dress is a simple fit and flare style featuring a v-neck, ruffled collar and pockets. It's extremely flattering, and I think the dress works well to show off your shoulders and arms. (I work with three, eight and 12-pound weights six days a week, so I've earned my muscles.)

The dress is still available on the Black Halo website and on Saks. I'm wearing a size two for reference. Black Halo tends to run a little small, so be strategic with your sizing.

Shoes: SJP by Sarah Jessica Parker Trinity Embellished Buckle Pumps

These gorgeous pumps are no longer available, but here's a similar style from the SJP brand.

Happy Holidays!

Burgundy

I've been feeling more in the holiday spirit the last few days. Our Christmas tree is up and decorated, holiday music has been playing, and I've been listening to some holiday-themed audiobooks during my outdoor runs and work commute.

I'm currently listening to The 12 Dates of Christmas and recently finished Holidaze, which was predictable and not that well written -- but not nearly as bad as everyone said. When quarantine started back in March, we were just moving into our new home, and had planned to order a treadmill right away. Peloton put a stop to orders, though, so for months I was forced to run outside. Thus, my obsession with audiobooks started. It's a great way to get through a run and feel entertained, and I now actually prefer running outside to running on our new treadmill -- despite all the monster hills in our  neighborhood!

Today's outfit is comfortable and perfect for the weather; the day started out cold, but it was 60 degrees by the afternoon. Plus, I love the color. This rich wine, burgundy color seems to work on everyone - especially brunettes!

Outfit Details

Dress: Milly Cutout Fit and Flare Dress in Burgundy

Shoes: Jimmy Choo Love Logo Glitter Leather Pumps

Textured LBD

You can't go wrong with an LBD, and the all black dress really makes these Sophia Webster sandals pop!

Outfit Details

Dress: Milly Sleeveless Vertical Textured Fitted Dress

Shoes: Sophia Webster Joy Sandals

Surprise Slit

This dress from Milly takes a boring sheath dress and elevates it to a new and sexy level. The ruching is flattering, slimming you down and hiding flaws, and the slit adds that wow factor every dress needs.

Dress: Milly Hera Ruched Sheath Dress

Available in a beautiful maroon wine color at Neiman Marcus.

Shoes: Sophia Webster

Cityscape

 

Dress: Shoshanna

Sandals: Jimmy Choo

Splat

I'm doing print on print today, with both my shoes and dress featuring bold paint splatter-esque designs.

Outfit Details

Dress: Alice + Olivia Delora Abstract Print Bodycon Dress

The dress is super comfortable, with a flattering scoop neck and sleeves that go to the elbows. Since it's so cold in Atlanta today, it's nice to wear something so cozy.

Shoes: Schutz Miranda Bow Sandals (no longer available)

Come Back

It's always tough coming back to work after a long weekend. Although Thanksgiving 2020 was unlike any other -- no family or friends to see in person, but no hectic travel schedules, either -- I definitely worked in plenty of relaxing time. Chapin and I started reading Ready Player Two, a sequel I have been eagerly awaiting for years, and I binged The Crown Season 4, which was fantastic. Sometimes I wonder if I was British in another life!

Today I'm in another Rebecca Taylor dress. We had a beautiful few days, with temperatures in the low 70s, but that's over now. Today, I'm in a coat and long sleeves because it is windy and definitely cold out there! Chapin even lit a fire in our fireplace last night -- the first time we've used it in our new house.

Outfit Details

Dress: Rebecca Taylor Brigette Silk A-Line Dress

Shoes: Manolo Blahnik Campari Pointed Toe Mary Jane Pumps

This outfit is fairly conservative, but definitely comfortable and ideal for a cold Monday!

Some Days Pants

Today's dress isn't a dress at all! I'm actually wearing pants in the form of this chic Rebecca Taylor jumpsuit, a gift from my sister-in-law, Stacey. The fact that I can squeeze into a size zero jumpsuit is also a miracle.

In addition to wearing pants, I'm also wearing flats! Since the jumpsuit is cropped, heels just wouldn't work here.

Outfit Details

Jumpsuit: Rebecca Taylor Ottoman Pleated Cropped Leg Jumpsuit

The jumpsuit is sold out in black, but Saks has it in a beautiful teal color.

Shoes: Sophia Webster Daria Flats in Bronze and Gold Glitter

Spotted

Today's dress is so cozy and comfortable - and the crepe material is ideal for pug owners. Tulip wasn't feeling well over the weekend, so I brought her to the office with me to keep a close eye on her. Normally, when a pug sleeps in my lap all day, I come home covered in pug hair. Today... not so much!

Outfit Details:

Dress: La Vie Rebecca Taylor Le Faune Pink Leopard Print Dress

Shoes: Jimmy Choo Alissa Platform Wedges in Blush and Gold

No Such Thing As Too Much Flutter

The flutter sleeves on this smocked Shoshanna dress are so dramatic. Combined with the bold red/ orange hue and smocked bodice, the dress truly draws the eye.

I went with a light colored lip and gold shoes so that all the emphasis is on the dress.

Outfit Details

Dress: Shoshanna Navia Dress

The dress is still available in select sizes at ShopBop, Neiman Marcus and on the Shoshanna website.

Shoes: Jimmy Choo Love 85 Pointed Toe Pumps in Gold

It's been a busy week, and feels like we should be farther along than a Wednesday! I've been so stressed at work lately, so I'm looking forward to the upcoming Thanksgiving holiday... even though I'll just be staying home and enjoying turkey and sides with Chapin and the dogs. I told Chapin he doesn't even need to bother to cook a turkey (he is anyway), because when it comes to Thanksgiving dinner, I'm all about the sides: mashed potatoes and gravy, stuffing, sweet potato pie. You'll notice there's nothing green on this list -- oh well!

Studs on Studs

My dress features studs today... and so do my Rockstud Valentinos! 

Outfit Details

Dress: Parker Joy High Neck Fit and Flare Studded Knit Dress (no longer available)

Shoes: Valentino Garavani Rockstud T-Strap High Heel Pumps

Tossed Bouquet

The leaves continues to fall from the trees and the temperature is dropping; it's finally beginning to feel a lot like Fall in Atlanta.

Outfit Details

Dress: Shoshanna Julietta Floral Velvet Dress

Today's dress is a little different but still extremely flattering - especially if you have curves. The ruching throughout the skirt is ideal for hiding flaws, and the polka dotted lace eyelet detail really draws the eye. The floral pattern in velvet is described as a "tossed bouquet," and it's a fun and flirty print in colors perfect for the season. The long puffed sleeves, while a little different, also make the dress an ideal choice for a chilly Fall day. 

Shoes: Jimmy Choo Emsy Lizard-Embossed Leather Sandals in Black

The Beauty of Fall

The colors of Fall - deep maroons, vivid oranges, subtle yellows - are colors that also work extremely well when it comes to Fall fashion. Today's dress is perfect for the season; it's easy to wear, with a simple empire waist and tie in back, beautiful neckline and lace overlay.

Outfit Details

Dress: Tularosa Coraline Dress in Cabernet

Find the dress at Revolve and on the Tularosa website. This dress is the first I'm wearing from the brand, so I wasn't sure about sizing. I bought an XS, but the brand must run large because it's actually a little big on me.

Shoes: Sophia Webster Freya Platform Sandals

Sometimes

It's been so long since I went out -- to dinner, to a comedy club, to a friend's home... just OUT! I miss hugging, traveling and spending quality time with people I care about. We've even canceled our Thanksgiving celebration -- we were going to host family for the first time in our new house -- due to the ongoing pandemic.

So sometimes I just need to wear a dress that is probably more appropriate for a night out than a day in the office... like today's dress.

Outfit Details

Dress: BCBGMaxAzria Snakeskin Print Bodycon Dress

The bodycon design shows off your curves and the snakeskin print is fun and eye-catching.

Find it at Bloomingdale's, Saks OFF 5TH and Zappos.

Shoes: Sophia Webster Daria 100 Snake-Embossed Pointed-Toe Pumps (no longer available)

Check

Who out there has watched The Queen's Gambit? I watched the whole series this weekend and just loved it. I don't even understand chess all that well, but I was transfixed by the story -- and the fashion! The 60s dresses the main character, Beth, wore in the Netflix show were so charming.

Today's black and white dress also has a lot of charm. It's simple yet elegant and beautiful, with short sleeves and extra lace detail at the neckline and waist.

Outfit Details

Dress: Shoshanna Astraea Lace Sheath Dress

Find the dress on the Shoshanna website as well as retailers like Saks and Neiman Marcus.

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

Waiting Game

I'm trying to immerse myself in work as the country waits to find out who will officially take office come January. It's hard not to refresh CNN every hour as the vote counts come in from the last remaining states. It's amazing to see how much my vote here in Georgia counts!

Today's dress is one that is perfect for a crisp Fall day, featuring long sleeves, a flattering v-neck and beautiful maroon and purple hues. I like the handkerchief hem and how the dress flows and moves when I walk.

Outfit Details

Dress: Rebecca Taylor Claudine Long Sleeve Handkerchief Hem Silk Blend Dress

The dress is still available and on sale now on the Rebecca Taylor website and at Nordstrom Rack. 

Shoes: Manolo Blahnik BB Ankle Strap Suede Pumps (no longer available)

Vote!

Election Day is here again! I voted early, and I hope everyone here in the U.S. reading this post is exercising his or her democratic right to vote. Let your voice be heard!

Since I'm in a patriotic mood, I decided to wear blue and red today. This dress has been sitting unworn in my closet since the end of last season, so with the weather turning cooler, I finally have a chance to wear it. I'm definitely missing those long summer days, though. With the time change, it's pitch black by the time I leave the office in the evenings.

Outfit Details

Dress: Sandro Paris Navy Stretch Fit Flare Pleated Knit Dress (no longer available)

The dress is super comfortable, and the fiery red/orange trim matches my sandals exactly.

Shoes: Jimmy Choo Lang Sandals in Flame

I just love these sandals. I have had them forever and they still look great. Plus, they are really comfortable for a pair of high heels. Jimmy Choo is the most comfortable of the designer brands, in my opinion.

It's a Zoo Around Here!

It was quite a weekend! Not only did we celebrate Halloween (safely at home), but Chapin and I celebrated our 17th wedding anniversary (and 21 years together). I have now been with this man exactly half of my life! He made me pancakes for dinner to celebrate (an inside joke in our house).

Halloween 2020: Zookeeper and Animals

Starring Chapin as the Zookeeper, Michele as a monkey, Norman as a panda, Wally as a koala and Tulip as a penguin. Don't they look happy to be wearing their animal hats?

Today's Outfit:

It's cold here in Atlanta, so out come the long sleeves!

Dress: Halston Heritage Metallic Knit Long Sleeve Dress in Black/Silver

Shoes: Sophia Webster Giovanna Crystal-Embellished Glitter Slingback Sandals

Sea

Today I'm wearing my first dress from the Sea brand. The smocked bodice and flutter sleeves really caught my eye, so when this dress went on sale, I had to buy it! The dress runs large, but otherwise, I love it.

Outfit Details

Dress: Sea Monet Smocked Midi Dress

Shoes: Sophia Webster Natalia Snake Embossed Platform Sandals

Feminine Power

This whole outfit seems like a little girl's fantasy come true. The dress is colorful and the shoes and purse are pink and fabulous. And yes, you can still be a bad ass in pink!

Outfit Details

Dress: Milly Mesh A-Line Dress

Shoes: Sophia Webster Andie Bow Pink Satin Pumps

Purse: Sophia Webster Patti Top Handle Bag

Button Up

Who doesn't love a little black dress? 

This Ted Baker design has a few stunning details, like the black and rose gold buttons going up the front, the large pockets and the thick fabric, that truly help it stand out.

Outfit Details

Dress: Ted Baker London Octavia Button Up Dress

This dress is perfect for Fall -- if you live in the South -- since the day usually starts out cool (temperature in the 50s) and ends up warm (high 70s/low 80s). 

Shoes: Sophia Webster Amelie Black Suede Pearl-Studded Sandals

I thought the pearls on the shoes played off the buttons on the dress for a nice overall effect.

Unfortunately, both the shoes and dress are no longer available.

Fun With Prints

This navy dress from Shoshanna is dotted with fun florals in bright, vivid colors. It has a belt that cinches at the waist, three-quarter mesh sleeves and a smocked bodice, so it's super flattering.

I wanted to wear something eye-catching today to help wake me up; lately, I can't seem to sleep through the night without waking up at least two or three times, whether it's the dogs, Chapin or me having a weird dream or needing to go to the bathroom. I would love just several hours of uninterrupted sleep! Last night, I dreamt I had to take the SATs again, and I opened my booklet early and got in trouble. Anxiety manifests itself in weird ways, doesn't it? Usually it's the math class dream -- I have a big test, but haven't been to class all semester -- that wakes me up and has me reminding myself that I already graduated from high school, college and grad school!

Dress: Shoshanna Walker Navy Floral Dress

Find the dress (on sale) at ShopBop and Saks. This same design is available in several different prints and colors.

I've been watching episodes of Seinfeld lately on Hulu just for some guaranteed laughs. My favorite episode is still The Marine Biologist, but The Junior Mint is a close second. 

Fun Fact: Jerry Seinfeld dated founder Shoshanna Gruss for years in the 90s at the height of his fame, even though she was about 30 years younger. I guess it's appropriate that I'm wearing her design today!

Shoes: Jimmy Choo Lang Sandals in Flame

I've had these shoes for years and they are still in such good condition. I love me some Jimmy Choos!

Fluttering Floral

Today's dress is chic and fun, with a black and nude color combination that perfectly pairs with my favorite Valentino shoes.

Outfit Details

Dress: Milly Leila Floral Guipure Lace Short Dress

The dress is slimming, with fluttery sleeves and a wide black band at the waist.

Shoes: Valentino Rockstud Pumps

Ruffles and Eyelet

This sweet dress from Alice + Olivia is so feminine and chic; I can't resist any outfit that combines ruffles and eyelet and packages it up in this gorgeous shade of lavender. Purple is definitely a color that looks great on everyone!

Outfit Details

Dress: Alice + Olivia Remada Ruffle Eyelet Dress in Lavender

You can still buy the dress online in select sizes at Alice + Olivia, Neiman Marcus and Shopbop. Saks is selling the dress in white. (I don't think the dress is nearly as appealing in white, though.)

Shoes: Sophia Webster Rosalind Mermaid Glitter Sandals

There are so many pastel colors swirling in the design of these fun sandals from Sophia Webster that you can wear them with a variety of different outfits. I think they add to the whimsical nature of the whole look.

Just Another Day

The work days are just flying by -- and I don't seem to get any real work done until the phone stops ringing around 5 p.m.! My company continues to grow and thrive, but there is so much going on that I feel stressed all the time. Growing pains, right?

Outfit Details

Dress: Shoshanna Evan Floral Sweater Dress

I love the bold navy and maroon color combination; it's a perfect fall/winter floral print. The dress is professional and made from a heavier material, which means it's well suited for cooler days when headed to work -- not that I leave my office much during the day. Oh well!

The dress is also still available to rent!

Shoes: SJP by Sarah Jessica Parker Buckingham Satin Ankle-Tie Sandals (no longer available)

Fly Me Away

This week feels so long already. Work has been extremely stressful, so today's post will be short and sweet.

Outfit Details

Dress: Avec Les Filles Mock Neck Smocked Maxi Dress

Shoes: Sophia Webster Women's Riva Butterfly Wedge Heel Espadrille Sandals