A Fashionistas Blog

Fabulous for Less Under $250: Dinner With My Valentine

2012-01-24T10:54:00.000-08:00

I love the romance of Valentine's Day. Do we really need a holiday to celebrate our love? No, but getting dressed up for a night out isn't so bad either. Each year, we take our son to his favorite place-usually one that serves mac n cheese. For us, it's pretty low-key. But I still like to dress for the occasion.

Doing a family dinner is a little different than a couples night. It's important to find a happy balance between sexy and appropriate. Either way you go, I think this MANGO dress has it.

Get the Look: I love how it feels classic yet oozes sex appeal. Throw in a super-flattering v-neck, curve-hugging silhouette, and flirty length... Gorgeous!!! Silver or gold accessories with this. I like pieces that feel both modern and edgy like this two-tone ring, gold hammered cuff, and spiked earrings from ASOS. Peep-toes are super flirty and a chic patent clutch is perfect for all your little things.

Note: For wet or snowy evenings, pair with black tights and ankle booties in black leather or fabulous leopard.

"Dinner With My Valentine"

MANGO Wrapped Dress $79.99
ASOS Spike Drop Earrings $10.74
Zad Sun Temple Gold Cuff $18
Giles & Brother Dresser Gold-Plated
Rhodium-Effect Ring $30.25 (sale)
Sondra Roberts Patent Clutch $48.95
MANGO Leather Peep-Toe $54.99 (sale)
(Total $242.92)

H&M Trend Guide for Mens and Womens SS12

2012-01-23T12:35:00.000-08:00

Seems odd we're thinking spring in the midst of all this rain and snow. But there's definitely some fun trends to look forward to this season.

Here's a great video from H&M of what's to come for Spring/Summer 2012.

"It's much more about a grown-up look; more about a well-dressed look. It doesn't have to be sharp. It can still be very soft and fluid and feminine. But it is a cleaner look and more tailored." ~Ann-Sofie Johannson, Head of Design H&M

"The must-have for this season is a functional jacket. You need to have a parka or an anorak. I think the most different thing this season compared to last one is the use of color in menswear. And also, the mix between the tailored look and the functional look."

~Ann-Sofie Johannson, Head of Design H&M

Style Inspiration: Morning Splash

2012-01-18T10:45:00.000-08:00

Seeing these photos brings me right back to that morning. There was the slightest breeze and stunningly clear waters. We were on our way to breakfast, but decided to take a quick detour to the beach to grab these shots.

"Mom, are we doing another style inspiration?" Our son likes to tease, but he's also incredibly understanding for a 9-year-old. His easy "go with the flow" nature has been such a blessing. Never a fuss-so patient and just happily playing nearby. Our boy.

I packed so many different options for this trip; printed dresses, bright little skirts, and shorts. I think a beautiful caftan is such a must for a beachy destination. The minute I spotted this piece on ideeli.com I knew it was vacation bound. The embroidery and crochet detail is so intricate with frilly sleeves that tie at the bottom. Accessories were very natural and fun. I love the contrast of this stone ring next to my dress. And the studded bag gave it just a touch of island glamour.

When: Jan 10th

Where: Lahaina, Maui; our resort

What:
Marigold Caftan Dress: ideeli.com
Oversized Sunglasses: Marc by Marc Jacobs
Leather Studded Hobo: Sara Berman
Cross Heart Stack Ring, Gold Stone Ring: Rachel Rachel Roy, Mango
Stacked Wooden Bangles: Wanderlust

Style Inspiration: Breakfast in Paradise

2012-01-17T10:22:00.000-08:00

Hello All! I'm so thrilled to be back and thankful to Theraflu for getting me through this past week. Despite getting terribly sick the last two days of our vacation, Maui was amazzzing.

We stayed on the west side of the island this time in Lahaina. I don't think it matters much which area you visit, Maui is such an inspiring place to be. Waking up to the ocean; taking in the vegetation and gorgeous colors... I fall in love every time. And even in January, we couldn't have asked for more perfect weather. It truly is paradise.

Our first morning, we were all up at 5am waiting for the sun to rise. It's unusual for me to ever see this time of day-guess we were too excited to explore. My husband shot these pics right before heading off to breakfast at nearby Whalers Village. It's a nice short walk from our resort and a great place to stock up on extras for the day.

When: Jan 9th

Where: Lahaina, Maui; our resort

What:
Sheer Navy Top: Rennes
Colored Denim Shorts: Zara
Wooden Gold Bead Necklace: Wanderlust
Sunglasses: Marc by Marc Jacobs
Leather Crossbody Bag: ASOS
Two-tone Watch: Micheal Kors
Leather Gladiator Sandals: DV by Dolce Vita
Straw Fedora: purchased in Santa Monica, Third Street Promenade
Gold Bead & Friendship Bracelets: Shashi, assorted

A Winter Wonderland Holiday

2012-01-06T09:28:00.000-08:00

Sometimes, it's the little things... Just a sled and snowy hill; visiting family and a new puppy was all it took to make this one of the most memorable Christmas' ever.

I haven't gone sledding since grade school. It felt so freeing to be a kid again with our boy. Grandma and Dad enjoyed themselves too. We also met my little niece for the very first time. She's the sweetest thing; love those pretty brown eyes. And my parents' puppy was a sweet surprise. It wasn't easy saying "goodbye" to him. But the best was having snow for the holidays. Just perfect!!

Here's a "postcard" from our travels to Grandma and Grandpas.

Steal of the Day: Vacation Style by H&M

2012-01-05T14:00:00.000-08:00

Just back from a snow-filled holiday vacation... Soon, we'll be off to a warmer destination and will be packing much lighter. How perfect are these pieces from H&M? The acidy knit top would make such a cute topper for a bikini or swimsuit. And love the striped jersey dress for a casual lunch or just around town. What a steal!!!

Sleevless Knit Top $39.95

Short Jersey Drawstring Dress $12.95

This Christmas... My Love Gave to Me

2011-12-29T16:15:00.000-08:00

Hubby really surprised me this Christmas... Being married nearly 15 years, it's not easy to do. He's been known to take ideas from the blog. This year, I decided to give him some help (links included). But I still had no clue what he was getting.

Loving my new slippers from the Loft. They're like pretty little ballets. The chiffon flower detail is so adorable; love wearing them around the house. The black leather clutch by Pour la Victoire; absolutely love. It's oversized, casual, and sexy which makes it's perfect for many different events. These gorgeous sunnies are from Marc by Marc Jacobs. And, hellooo iPhone! For years, I've had my trusty Blackberry. He's been relentless trying to get me to convert, but I've been reluctant. "It's too much-too fussy." "I don't need all those apps." Blah, blah, blah... Anyways, looove it!!! I'm having a lot of fun with the camera. There will definitely be more twitpics and Instagrams. He added an iTunes gift card too. I'm such a huge fan of music!! So, major bonus points for hubby this year. It's much more than I asked for, but happy to know he gets me. Because, if he doesn't know me by now...

Merry Christmas & Happy Holidays to You

2011-12-24T18:01:00.000-08:00

We'll be traveling soon to see our families in Minnesota and Wisconsin. But tonight, it's a quite Christmas Eve with popcorn, movie, and hot chocolate. Heading to service then it's off to bed and wait for Santa to arrive.

I want to wish you all a wonderful and blessed Christmas!!! Hope you get everything you wished for this year!! xx

Fabulous for Less Under $250: A Glamorous Holiday

2011-12-16T12:04:00.000-08:00

I love the challenge of creating these looks for under $250. Particularly, during the holiday season when there's a zillion parties to attend and plenty of gifts to buy.

Now, sometimes working with a limited budget could mean foregoing or cutting corners where necessary. But I'm not one to buy just because it's cheap. That's never justified. When the result looks expensive-that's success. And in this case, there was no settling with this ultra glam holiday style.

Get the Look: Talk about making an entrance in this little black dress by MM Couture. The one-shoulder has simplicity and elegance with an asymmetrical drape that's beyond flattering. There's just a note of shine with a bead encrusted waistline to accent your curves. It's also the perfect moment to bring on more sparkle to the look. I went for super glamorous crystal drop earrings, a rhinestone cutout ring, crystal accented satin clutch, and stunning glitter heels from Nine West. In love!!

"A Glamorous Holiday"

MM Couture Sleeveless One Shoulder
Draped Beaded Mini Dress $64.99 (sale)
Tinley Road Deco Crystal Shell Drop Earrings $20
FREIDA by Nina Designs Black Satin Box Clutch $48.95
Forever 21 Cutout Ring $3.80
Nine West FREE SPIRIT Pumps $109
(Total ($246.74)

Fabulous for Less Under $250: Holiday Office Party Style

2011-12-10T09:17:00.000-08:00

From neighborhood get-togethers to company parties, it's all about holiday celebrations right now. In this fabulous for less, we're stretching the budget and creating festive designers looks for just under $250!!

Get the Look: The secret to creating luxe looks for less... It's about mixing high impact pieces with rich and interesting textures. Dressing for these events, nothing says "holiday" more than shimmering sequins. For an office party, I'm going for glamorous separates with a black sequin skirt and cashmere blend sweater in a gorgeous winter bright. The result is a super chic, super flirty colorblock effect. Love, love the cobalt blue. And this tulip style mini is just incredibly sexy. For accessories, spice it up with a gold spiked collar necklace and sparkling accents. I think the danger factor is unexpected and brings a nice balance to this look. An envelope style clutch and fabulous booties are essential for the party rounds. These pieces will carry you flawlessly throughout the holiday season.

Note: Black tights are optional here. Love the winter white sweater too. Also, available in many colors.

"Holiday Office Party"

Victoria's Secret Silk & Cashmere Sweater
in Cobalt $29.50 (sale)

ASOS Spike Collar Necklace $27.27

Tinley Road Sequin Tulip Skirt $49

Forever 21 V Rhinestone Bracelet $5.46

Lipsy Gold Mix Stone Long Ring $14.54 (sale)

ALDO Reckling Black/Gold Clutch $50

Gabriella Rocha Abbyrose Black Suede Booties $70.99

(Total $246.76)

Holiday Gotta Have Its: All That Glitters

2011-12-06T17:35:00.000-08:00

Pretty little things that make the season bright.

Alice + Olivia Barret Sequined Stretch-Mesh Top

French Connection Twinkle Glitter Bag

Anya Hindmarch Marano Glitter-Finish Box Clutch

French Connection Lucinda Sequin Shorts

Jimmy Choo Glitter Platform Pumps

Style Inspiration: Made the Grade

2011-09-22T11:09:00.000-07:00

School conferences... Can't believe we're already here. I was a little nervous this time. Although he seems to be enjoying the new school year and doing well, we've had a big jump in homework. I think we're finally getting into a good routine. He assures, "Oh, it will be good Mom. Really." Why I worry so much, I don't know. So far so good. His grades were beyond our expectations. Yay!!!!! So proud.

My outfit choice: For some reason, wearing a dress always makes me feel more "mommy." I wanted a dressed up look, but didn't want to be too "boardroom." This particular style just has that very classic ladylike "Jackio O" feel about it. The shape is so flattering and I love the print. Early morning, I layered with a cardigan. But by noontime, temps had reached nearly 90 degrees-it had to go. A slouchy hobo instead of structured bag felt more casual and less formal. Fun caged wedges and gold accessories to finish the look.

What I wore:

When: Sept 21th

Where: Neighborhood

What:

Dress: Zara

Leather Hobo: Michael Kors

Tusk Ring: ASOS

Leather Wedge Sandal: Lovely People

Gold Bangle: something old but love

Style Inspiration: Brightest Day

2011-11-08T17:11:00.000-08:00

Spent another morning with the kids today. Guess I'll keep going until it "isn't cool" for Mom to be hanging around anymore. Hopefully, we are still far from that. I know I'll be holding on for as long as I can.

It's been really nice though. The kids have been so much fun. And of course, I'm keeping mental notes on all the girls he's mentioned. Actually, he doesn't have a clue about any of it yet-which is great. Learning more about his friends and seeing that he enjoys school is joy enough for me.

What I wore: I wish all Fall days were this gorgeous. Just a sweater and jeans today; no jacket needed. In this case, it probably wouldn't have worked anyways. The kimono sleeves are quite voluminous and meant to be shown. It just feels like I'm wrapped in a soft blanket-which I love. And the bright sapphire color is so stunning this time of year. Some favorite accessories... Classic studded riding boots by Michael Kors. They're so comfortable and endlessly versatile. I'll have these in my closet forever. And chic gold hammered cuffs and earrings to complete the look.

When: Nov 8th

Where: Around Town

What:
Kimono Sleeve Sweater: BCBGMAXAZRIA
Skinnies: Blank Denim
Gold Hammered Cuff: Nordstrom
Studded Riding Boots: KORS Michael Kors
Gold & Ivory Earrings: ??? So Old

Fall Leggings Trend: The Dos and Dont's

2009-09-01T11:14:00.000-07:00

Leggings for fall...no new news here. Personally, I've been fighting this 80s resurgence for the past two seasons. But with its ever-so-glaring presence, it's time I finally address the trend.

There seems to be no slowing of its popularity. Fortunately, designers are giving us something "new" with the latest installments. You'll find the styles to "do" comes daringly shredded, in fresh prints, designed with fabulous leather inserts, and fashioned with cool zipper detailing.

Now, although I'm warming up to the leggings trend, there are still certain styles you should caution. Check out the reasons why I've separated the "dos" from the "donts."

Dos

Dylan George 'Antoinette'
Ultra Skinny Leggings "jeggings" = combination of jeans and leggings. This latest addition gives you the look of skinny jeans with the super snug fit of leggings.

Rachel Pally Super Long
Leggings -graphic, arty, and subtle colors gives it a modern feel for fall. This style looks fresh with a loose white tee, black boyfriend blazer, and ultra high platforms.

Rag and Bone Moto Leggings
with Leather- replacing the leather pant comes this uber sexy and edgy hybrid of leather and jersey.

David Lerner Half Ripped
Leggings -naughty girls have your fun with these shredded versions. Just keep the cut-outs to a minimum; too much is just overload.

Dont's

Nightcap Clothing Equestrain Leggings -remember the skort? Same idea with this one; it's either a legging or skirt...not both.

Siwy 'Hannah' Slim Crop Leggings- Sequins are a big trend for fall and I love me some shine. But if you want to bring the sparkle, do it with accessories. This is just blinding.

Rag and Bone Moto Leggings
with Mesh- even for those who dare, mesh detailing along the derriere falls on the offensive. Unless you're Lady GaGa (who prefers walking around half naked), don't do it.

photos/shopbop.com

BB's Holiday Gift Guide 2011: For the Stylish Couple

2011-12-01T09:43:00.000-08:00

I love the holiday season. Putting up the tree; sweet-scented candles burning; decorations everywhere... It's a month long celebration. The tradition of giving to others and spending time with family-that's the best part.

In putting together this season's gift guide, I had the avid traveler and girl on the go in mind. There's everything from a little monogrammed bag, cool pendant necklace to a chic comfy hoodie for him. I love the versatility factor of these pieces. Statement watches... I'm obsessed. I think a beautiful timepiece has a place in everyone's wardrobe and will never go out of style. Now, a shimmering sequin jacket for her-that's "night out" magic.

Happy Holiday shopping all!!

*Click on photo for larger view

Parker Draped Sequin Jacket $352
Rag & Bone Zip Up Hoodie $127.50 (sale)

House of Harlow 1960 Black Leather

Totem Pole Necklace $110

Michael Kors Large 2-Tone Watch $225

NIXON 42-20 Chrono Watch $500

Herschel Supply Co. Novel Bag in

Navy/Khaki $88

Rebecca Minkoff Black Monogrammed Mini M.A.C. $220

Fall Accessories Trend: The Crossbody Bag

2009-11-09T14:05:00.000-08:00

For the girl who loves her bags... Personally, not only are they an obsession, but it's the one thing I budget for each season. Today's post is an absolute "gotta have it" if you're searching for the bag for fall.

The crossbody is designed to be hands-free and worn across your body (better to carry all those extras). Fellow Moms, I would definitely recommend this style for you. My faves are chic with the perfect combination of functionality and style; fab everyday bags. Love the slouch and hobos-especially with dual handles to alternate as a satchel!!!

Note: Crossbody bags will continue to be a big trend for spring. To really get the most for your money, be sure to invest in a sizeable bag. *Click on photo for larger view.

1. Olivia Harris Trapezoid Satchel in Wood
(also available in grey)
2. The Sak Flap Crossbody Bag

(available in 5 colors)

3. Marc by Marc Jacobs 'Petal to the Metal' Sasha Hobo

4. Linea Pelle Dylan Folding Tote in Teak
(also available in black)
5. Marc by Marc Jacobs Totally Turnlock Aggie Satchel
6. Botkier Aiden Crossbody Hobo in Plum Lambskin
(available in 3 colors)

7. Rebecca Minkoff Loveletter Satchel

(available in 3 colors)
8. Tory Burch Leather Studded Messenger Bag
(also available in cognac)

9. D&G Dolce & Gabbana Convertible Bag

Holiday Weekend Sales

2009-12-19T09:55:00.000-08:00

This is it!! The last weekend before Christmas... Still need to find the perfect gift? Check out these can't miss deals!

Foley + Corinna All sales items are 60% off this weekend!!! Happening now: 8117 Melrose Ave 323-944-0169 and NY location too.

Hayden-Harnett Huge savings on handbags and apparel. Love the KRISTY Lined Trench Coat (60% off). Limited quantities.

Ann Taylor Fab weekend wear and separates for the office. Shop online or stop in your nearest Ann Taylor retailer for 40% off your entire purchase. Today only!!!

Mens Holiday Gift Guide 2010: Last Minute Picks Under $200

2010-12-21T15:28:00.000-08:00

It doesn't get any closer than this. And I'm scrambling too! But you won't have to settle on the perfect holiday gift for him. From hoodies to a great weekend bag, everything is priced under $200.

Note: Be sure to select overnight shipping to ensure delivery before Christmas!

DIESEL Slipiz Zip Sweater

A cool hoodie for his everyday style. More streamlined than your average hoodie. Great neutral color; love the asymmetrical zipper.

life/after/denim Skinny 5 Pocket Cord

(available in black & grey)

Dress these cords up or down, you can't go wrong. So chic with knits, button downs or hoodies. Nice slim fit!

OBEY Uptown Duffle

He'll love this for a weekend getaway or trip to the cabin. Chic antique hardware and leather accents.

Mosley Tribes Becker Aviator Sunglasses

Classic yet modern sunnies he can use year-round. These aviators look great on every face shape.

DIESEL Chronograph Watch in Black

A blacked-out timepiece is perfect for day or night. Obsessed!!

Bring on the Holidays

2011-11-30T12:11:00.000-08:00

Black Friday here and gone. Writing letters to Santa. We're ready for the Holiday season.

Fabulous for Less Under $250: Daytime Glam in Faux Fur

2011-09-26T12:23:00.000-07:00

Whether it's faux or the real thing, fur is definitely a major trend this season. Maybe not top on everyone's list, but certainly fun to try. For daytime, I love the idea of glamming up a blouse and jeans for an afternoon with the girls or just around town. It's one of my favorite looks for fall and we're doing it for under $250!

The Look: In this fabulous for less, it's retro-inspired with flared jeans in a great dark wash. The faux fur vest adds such amazing texture and interest to the look. Leave it open to bring out the gorgeous color of the blouse. I love a sheer or silky top for this; it has such great movement and so easy to wear. The shoes... In looove with these leopard wedges by N.Y.L.A!! The print adds just that touch of sexy and wow; a little peep-toe and done in calf hair-insane!!! Another fabulous option are lace-up wedges in black suede; so rich and chic. A chunky gold bracelet and playful pendant necklace is all you'll need to get daytime perfect.

Note: Love this look for petites too. The jeans are cut so perfectly and not too wide or flared to overwhelm your frame.

"DAYTIME GLAM"

BB Dakota Janika Faux Fur Vest in Black $65
Forever 21 Semi-Sheer Oversize Button-Up
in Teal $17.80
Free People Linked Bead Bracelet $28
ASOS Extra Long Mixed Medal Viola
Pendant Necklace $10.98
Forever 21 Longline Basic Cami $2.80
Diesel Flare Jeans $45 (sale)
N.Y.L.A Marce Wedge Bootie in Leopard $79.95
(Total $249.53)

Get Ready for Spring: Tibi Spring 2011 Launch Video

2011-02-04T16:23:00.000-08:00

Can't help it... Nothing gets you in the spring mood more than 70s temps. We're practically in shorts season here in LA. Here's a little style inspiration from one of my fave designers, Tibi. New pieces are already available online. Loooove the Cloister Beading One Shoulder Dress. For night out or cocktail with nude heels... Gorgeous!!

Spring 2011 Launch Video

b.tempt'd by Wacoal Spring 2012 Presentation at the Sunset Tower Hotel

2011-11-17T09:27:00.000-08:00

How often do you shop for lingerie? Once, twice a year or almost as often as your trips to the mall? Well, on my part, it's too embarrassing of an admission. Don't get me wrong, I love beautiful lingerie. But unlike my everyday wardrobe, it has seriously taken a back seat.

My invitation to preview Wacoal's b.tempt'd by Wacoal Spring 2012 Collection must have been sent from the lingerie Gods. I needed this!

The presentation was held in West Hollywood at the Sunset Tower Hotel. Champagne and a bevy of beautiful intimate apparel awaited in the penthouse suite. For Spring, b.tempt'd by Wacoal offered a collection of flirty brights, touches of lace, sexy bustiers, and gotta have it shapewear.

My fit specialists Gina and Dawn Kenney were nearby to answer all of my questions and ready to measure me. It was pretty difficult to hide my anxiety. Yes, the idea of a stranger seeing me topless was a scary thought. But the ladies were incredibly professional and put me at ease. I found my new favorite bra, the b.tempt'd Soft Touch Contour. It's super comfortable and pretty too. I love the lace detail and smooth molded cups look flawless underneath blouses, tees, and with anything jersey.

In my fitting, Gina also discovered I was wearing the wrong size. Surprise!! Not really. According to Liz Smith, the national spokesperson for Wacoal America ("The Bra Lady"), it turns out that 8 out of 10 women wear the wrong sized bra. She also suggests getting fitted once a year. Because, if you experience a weight gain or loss of just 5-7 pounds, your bra size will change.

I was also excited to learn of Wacoal's involvement in the fight against breast cancer. Every spring and fall the company hosts Fi(GH)T For the Cure events all over the country. To date, Wacoal has donated more than $2.5M to Susan G. Komen for the Cure. For a list of upcoming events, please visit http://btemptd.wacoal-america.com/content/our-community//fit-for-the-cure/content.html. What a fabulous way to support the campaign.

When: Nov 16th

Where: Sunset Tower Hotel, Sunset Blvd

What: b.tempt'd by Wacoal Spring 2012 Presentation
and Cocktail

Fabulous for Less Under $250: The Blazer

2009-11-11T00:07:00.001-08:00

For most, Thanksgiving is an easy day of eating and relaxing with loved ones. So for this week's "fab for less," I wanted to create an outfit that was casually chic and also very family-friendly.

Highlighting this season's blazer, I chose to layer with an embellished tank to dress it up. The beaded neckline serves double duty as our necklace (big money saver). Again, I opted for skinnies to highlight curves, but straight-leg denim would work just as well. The idea is to go with a tucked-in bootie look for a streamlined effect. Doing without a coat, a striped scarf is the perfect cozy extra and provides a fab contrast to the solid jacket. Finish with chunky standout bracelets, an oversized crossbody bag, and sexy platform ruffled booties; another huge trend this season. All yours for under $250*!!!!

Note: Love this look for everyday dressy casual. Eternity scarves are another fave accessory; so easy to wear. Click on photo for larger view.

"Thanksgiving Chic"

Lulu's Going Corporate Blazer in Navy $43
Forever 21 Metallic Bead Necklace Top $22.80
Express Mixed Stripe Eternity Scarf in Ivory $29.50
Lulu's Wicked Handbag in Black $41
Forever 21 Soft Skinny Jeans $27.80
Forever 21 Metallic Spot Suede Bracelet $6.80
Zigi Soho Zoom Ruffled Suede Bootie in Tan $79.95
(Total $250.85* just slightly over budget)

Fabulous for Less Under $250: Date Night in My Little Black Dress

2011-11-15T11:13:00.000-08:00

When dressing for date night or dinner with friends, I tend to go for something more elegant and refined. A little black dress always looks amazing and it's the perfect opportunity to showcase gorgeous accessories.

The Look: With a high neckline, open v-back design, and mini length, this Zara dress combines both sexy with sophistication. There's something about showing a little skin in the back that's so alluring and unexpected. And the shift silhouette is such a classic; this LBD will definitely have many uses. For jewelry, I love a bib or collar style necklace for mega boldness. Because the attention is along the neckline, I went less heavy with the rest of the accessories. For me, it's one major statement at a time, i.e., big necklace with a cocktail ring, a chunky cuff with subtle necklace or none at all. This sparkly stacked set from French Connection is gorgeous. Super sexy platform pumps are a staple and beautiful metal clutch finishes this evening style.

Note: Also love this idea for the holidays. Add a glamorous faux fur coat and semi-sheer black tights to complete the look.

"Date Night"

Zara V-Back Dress $79.90

Freemdom by Topshop Luxurious

Deco Collar Necklace $30

French Connection Stack Ring Set $17.97 (sale)

Zara New Square Purse in Gold $49.90

Zigi Soho Staple Leather Pump in Black Leather $59.95

(Total $237.72)

Style Inspiration: Finding Balance

2011-10-25T16:46:00.000-07:00

Juggling work and family... I think within our busy schedules, it's important to find time for the things we love. When it comes to our son, that means volunteering at school whenever possible. It's fun to just be a part of the classroom. Secretly, I love seeing his reaction when I walk into the room. Gosh, I hope he doesn't read this. He would die!!

Here's what I wore: Quick, throw on, and go. That just about sums it up. And since it was drizzling off and on all day, I didn't want anything too fussy. So the poncho was perfect. Plus, for an afternoon with the kids, it doesn't get more comfortable than this. Love the crochet design and loose, swingy silhouette of this piece. To balance it out, I went with denim leggings. Nude peep-toe booties and a bright bag for some much needed color. This vintage clutch was an amazing find-in beautiful condition and right on trend for fall.

Note: stacked wooden bangles were added just for the photos (not to cause a distraction in class).

When: Oct 25th

Where: Around Town

What:
Crocheted Poncho: Macys

Long-Sleeve Tee: H&M
Jeggings: J Brand
Stacked Wooden Bangles: Wanderlust
Wedge Booties in Nude Suede: BCBGeneration
Leather Convertible Bag/Clutch: Vintage