Back to the 70s

The title of today's post has a dual meaning:

First, after some chilly, rainy days, Atlanta is back in 70-degree weather (hooray). Although it's been rainy off and on today, as I write this post, the sun is shining. I think it's the first time I've seen the sun since Saturday!

Second, I am getting a distinct 70s vibe from today's dress. I think it's the explosion of different reds, golds, oranges and pinks in the skirt. Those colors definitely mean "the 1970s" to me.

Dress: Cynthia Steffe Ivy Fit and Flare Pleated Dress

Find it on sale at Amazon Fashion.

Sandals: Manolo Blahnik Perpia Strappy Stretch Sandals

Earrings: Stella & Dot Aurelia Drop Earrings

Necklace: Blue Nile Mini Feather Diamond Pendant

Always With Me

I had a wonderful experience early this morning that I just have to share with all my readers. To be honest, I've had a tough week. Chapin has been working crazy hours, so I've been on my own quite a bit. Whenever I'm alone too much, I wallow and start to cry and miss George more than ever. Last night, I broke down while emptying the dishwasher. I just cried and cried, my heart aching.

I've asked George often to give me a sign that he's alright, but I've never received an answer... until this morning.

I was thinking all week that the weather has been nice, but I haven't seen any bunnies. That may seem strange to you, but there are bunnies all over our neighborhood. I'm still not used to seeing them every once in awhile, because I'm a city girl, and I never saw any growing up in Alpharetta.

Anyway, this morning, as I was walking home after my workout, I saw one. It stared at me from a half block away, and I stared right back. I know you might think it's some big coincidence, but I do believe George was sending me a sign. I know, it's silly, but it makes me feel better to think he is with me, listening and watching over me.

So that's my story, cheesy as it might be. Now, on to the outfit.

Dress: Shoshanna Teal Sweater Dress

Yes, we are back to sweater weather today. It was only in the 50s in Atlanta, and so windy.

Shoes: Schutz Irma Ankle Strap Sandals

Also available in black or the same nude color from Neiman Marcus Last Call. You can also check out these Schutz booties - same pattern, different style.

Tip: If you ever want your legs to look longer, try a nude sandal. It really works.

Schutz Sandals (close-up)

Happy shopping!

Celebrate Good Times

This week, Chapin and I went to Bacchanalia for the first time to celebrate Chapin's birthday. What an experience. If you haven't eaten there yet, I highly recommend it. Yes, it's pricey, but it's worth it for one of the best dining experiences I've had in Atlanta. I can't decide if I enjoyed Bacchanalia or Restaurant Eugene more - both were fantastic.

Dress: David Meister

Here is Sofia Vergara wearing a similar style.

Shoes: Jimmy Choo

Chapin is wearing Hugo Boss.

Sparkles and Stripes

Today's Outfit of the Day

Dress: Nanette Lepore Belted Square Neck Dress

Pumps: Pour La Victoire

I've Never Seen Purple Underwear Before, Calvin

Today's dress, being purple and from Calvin Klein, reminded me of a certain scene from my favorite movie of all time, Back to the Future. I am super stressed at work this week, so thinking of that movie makes me smile.

In other news, I am re-reading The Hunger Games: Mockingjay, since Part I comes out in theaters in just a few weeks. I already bought tickets for the opening weekend. Go Team Peeta!

Dress: Calvin Klein

Shoes: Stuart Weitzman

Neon Lines

Lines can be so important on a dress or any other item of clothing simply because they can play tricks with your eyes. Horizontal stripes can make you look wider, while vertical stripes have a more slimming effect.

I love the strategically placed neon lines on this Shoshanna tweed dress, which is cozy and warm (as my dresses go) on this chilly Atlanta day. You will rarely see me in pants, even if it's freezing out. During the winter, I just add tights!

Dress: Shoshanna  Ayala Neon Piped Tweed Sheath Dress

Shoes: Kate Spade New York Licorice Pumps in Black and Gold

Studded

I have been sick all week, and am finally going to the doctor today. I think I have a sinus infection! You can see that even though I went to bed at 9 p.m. last night, which I haven't done in forever, I still look exhausted. I have so much pressure and pain in my sinus area... I just want to feel well again.

Dress: Nanette Lepore Caravan Studded Stretch Sheath Dress

Shoes: L.A.M.B. Peep-Toe Platform Booties

The shoes are no longer available, but here are some similar styles:

• L.A.M.B. Deedra Booties
• L.A.M.B. Shelbie Booties
• Fergalicious Eliza Booties
• Vince Camuto Klayton Boots

The Structured Sleeve

Happy Columbus Day! I am working on this (faux) holiday, but things seem calmer than usual. I am getting so much done!

Today I'm wearing what I think is a very fine example of a structured sleeve. I think the quality and detail here is just fabulous, and the puffiness makes my arm look more slender.

Dress: 4.Collective City Stretch Cap Sleeve Dress in Black and Ivory

Shoes: Kate Spade New York Nouvo Dress Pumps in Maraschino Red

Lip Color: Bobbi Brown Treatment Lip Shine with SPF 15 in Desert Rose

Here is a look at the dress and sleeve from the front:

Choosing the Unexpected

Sometimes I think I am a little too traditional when it comes to my style. I have always liked simple, elegant, feminine pieces. So, today I thought I would try something a little different: pairing a green dress with purple shoes. I know it doesn't seem like much, but for this classic dresser, it's (hopefully) a step in the right direction when it comes to taking more risks with my fashion sense. (In Sex and the City terms, I'm definitely more Charlotte than Carrie.)

Outside view from our upstairs balcony. I think the color of the shoes pops a little more in the outdoor lighting:

Dress: Shoshanna Green Peplum Dress

Shoes: Kate Spade New York Licorice Pumps

Good as Gold

Dress: Moulinette Soeurs

Shoes: Kate Spade New York Pumps

Golden Delight

Dress: Ali Ro Lurex Mini Stripe Fit and Flare Dress

Sandals: BCBGMaxAzria

Suddenly Fall

Today was the first day I truly realized that the season of tank tops and flip-flops has come to an end. It was actually chilly this morning, and I am wearing long(ish) sleeves!

Dress: Shoshanna

Shoes: Stuart Weitzman

I think you can really see the red in my hair in this outside shot. Here's one from inside:

Friday LBD

I love a "Little Black Dress," and I'm especially in love with this Roland Mouret for Banana Republic design.

Dress: Roland Mouret Collection Lace Sleeve Dress

I love the design of this dress, and since I normally can't afford Roland Mouret - his designs sell for $1,000 or more - I was so excited when Banana Republic launched this small collection (priced for the average consumer). If you are looking for a professional, chic, polished look, Roland Mouret is the answer. His fans include Sandra Bullock, Jennifer Lopez, Cameron Diaz, Eva Longoria, Blake Lively... the list goes on and on. His designs look especially great on women who want to emphasis curves, like Kim Kardashian. He is the aptly name King of the Body-Con Dress.

The dress is fabulous, but beware: it's not lined. If you are self conscious at all about your body, you might want to add a slip or Spanx.

Shoes: Jimmy Choo Bronx Black and Gold Buckle Sandals

Lips: Christian Dior Addict Fluid Stick in Vertigo

I'm currently obsessed with this lip color line, mainly because I have finally found a lipstick that stays on my lips longer than one hour. If I put this lip color on in the morning before I go to work, even with drinking coffee and having a snack, it's still on my lips by lunchtime. That is amazing to me! If you don't have time to constantly re-apply lipstick throughout the day (who does?), definitely check out this lip color line right now.

Stained Glass

Dress: Shoshanna Tanya Dress

I went a little more casual with today's dress, mostly due to the fact that I have a rare day with no (in-person) client meetings.

I think the pattern on the dress looks like stained glass up close, but it's essentially a paisley lace pattern. I love Shoshanna dresses not just for their flattering cuts, but for their uniqueness as well.

Necklace: Alexis Russell Pave Diamond Key Necklace

I love Alexis Russell's simple yet elegant designs, and I hope to get more of her jewelry over time. They key necklace is one of my favorites.

Shoes: Charles David T-Strap Calypso Sandals

These sandals are no longer available, but here are some similar styles:
- Charles David Integrity T-Strap Sandals

- Charles David Suede Isadora Sandals

- Charles David Integrity Sandals

- Manolo Blahnik Worty T-Strap Sandals

- French Connection Nella T-Strap Sandals

Hazy Shade of Winter

I love a fabulous print, and the green and navy tartan pattern on today's dress is no exception. I bought the Nanette Lepore Pretty Plaid Dress back in 2009, so it's no longer available for purchase, but you can find other fabulous plaid prints from the designer online, including the Nanette Lepore On the Beat Plaid Dress.

There are a myriad of reasons why this dress is both flattering and chic:

- The cap sleeves are endearing and help slim the arm. If you're self conscious about your arms, a cap or puff sleeve is always going to be your best bet. It cuts off to help make the arms look thinner.

- The silhouette defines the waist, yet doesn't hug the hips to make you look bulky.

- It's made with 100% wool, so it's quite warm for a cold day like today, but it's lined inside so the wool doesn't touch the skin directly. (I have very sensitive skin, so this feature is a major plus!)

As for accessories, I went pretty light today, since the decorative buttons on the dress are enough to grab the eye (so no necklace needed). I am wearing my sapphire and diamond earrings and using my Michele black purse. The shoes are the Black Suede Braid Elisha T-Strap Pumps from Modern Vintage. I could only find them on eBay; I bought these shoes over a year ago.

I also thought today's picture looks pretty cool. We own a loft, so from first glance it looks like the wall above me just kind of ends... but we painted part of the upper wall and ceiling dark green to get that cool visual effect. I think the photo captures it just right.

9-02-10 Day!

Today is September 2, 2010, or 9-02-10. As someone who grew up watching Brenda, Dylan, Brandon, Andrea, Kelly, Steve and the whole (original) 90210 clan, I can't help smiling at the date. Hopefully that means it will be a good day. George is getting his teeth cleaned at the vet, so I will be a nervous wreck until Dr. Woods calls to tell me he's recovering. I have been very nervous about vets every since our experiences with Izzie.

Anyway, here is my 9-02-10 outfit:

-Grey/ cream Cynthia Steffe dress with front and pocket zippers and a tie in front.

-L.A.M.B Veena heeled sandals

In case you had not noticed, I am in love with these L.A.M.B sandals. I think they are so beautiful! They are not Fall/Winter shoes, so I'm trying to get as much use out of them right now as I can! :)