MCLV Style: Graphic Tees & Shopping
These shots were taken in the bustling Union Square area of San Francisco after a beautiful Saturday spent shopping and celebrity sighting with some of my favorite ladies - Donna of So You Agree, Alex of SF Shop Girl, and Sasha of Sasha Maks Vintage.
{You can shop similar pieces by clicking these hyperlinks: Cropped Jeans – Paige Denim, Tee – Zara, Blazer – Aqua, Bag – Givenchy & Heels – Zara}
{Check out outtakes from this shoot here – Just log into Facebook to view}
{Photos by Donna of So You Agree}
This look ended up being a great choice for this long day – We started at the Rebecca Minkoff handbag sale at 9:30am and ended with photos in front of Macys at 4:30pm. Like I said. Long day! 
Graphic tees are a fun trend to try out this Spring and the perfect way to spice up a simple jeans and t-shirt look is by adding heels and a statement bag.
And this wasn’t just any day - Definitely not - I was in Union Square to meet the beautiful and oh-so-talented Aimee Song of Song of Style at the Macy’s American Icons event.
I had gotten a chance to say hello to Aimee while I was at IFBCON earlier this year but I was still pretty excited to get a chance to chat with her on Saturday – The five of us talked blogging, shopping, and the differences between the San Francisco and LA fashion blogger scenes.
Do you have a favorite t-shirt for Spring? Have you tried out any of the cute graphic tee yet this season?
Looks of the Week – Workwear Edition
One of the easiest fashion ruts to fall into is not being creative with your work looks, whether that means defaulting to all black or never mixing in new pieces. So take some inspiration from the lovely ladies below and I challenge you to try something fun and new this week to keep your work style interesting.
{Hands down the greatest Spring work-appropriate look I’ve seen this season. It’s bold, yes, but absolutely perfect for a fun work environment!}
{Black & white separates are perfect for work so try mixing & matching some pieces and put together a fun new look!}
{If you prefer a classic pencil skirt and blouse combination take a cue from Britt with this beautiful combination of color & prints. Classic, but fun & Spring-ready!}
{A colored suit is a great option for warmer weather and while a navy or forest green work well for a number of offices, if you work in entertainment, fashion or other more casual fields you could try a bold hue like We Wore What’s pink Walter Baker suit.}
{My office staples always include chic dresses – I favor wrap dresses & sheaths with a blazer. Take your inspiration from Krystal above and find a flattering dress in a classic silhouette that you can add your repertoire.}
{Click on the pictures above to be taken to the original source}
What inspired you most in these pictures? If you had to try one new thing this week – What would it be?
{Collaboration} Voyage To Marrakech: Lookbook II
Did you enjoy the first lookbook from my recent shoot with The Factory? If you missed it you can see it here – {Collaboration} Voyage To Marrakech.
What I love most about this new collection is the vibrancy. The colors, the prints, the fabrics – They’re all dramatic and bold, they transport you to a bustling marketplace in Marrakech where you’re surrounded by people and sights and sounds.
{Clothing by The Factory}
{Jewelry can be shopped online at Sasha Maks Vintage, pieces will be available at The Factory through Summer, or you can contact info@sashamaksvintage.com for additional details & private appointments}
{Photography – Jennymay Villarete of J. Villarete Photography, Jewelry & Jewelry Styling – Sasha Maks Vintage & Clothing – The Factory}
I’m a dress girl through-and-through so I was a little surprised by just how much I adored those sporty powder blue shorts that I’m holding above. Not only does the casual style & relaxed fit make them PERFECT for Spring & Summer, they also come in various colors, prints & fabrics. They’d look great with a blouse, a cute graphic tee, or a tank paired with a blazer for nighttime. Definitely planning to pick myself up a pair for the hot Summer weekends in Sacramento!
What’s your favorite style of shorts for warm weather?
Beauty Corner: Sayuki Custom Cosmetics
During a recent trip to my cosmetics mecca, Barneys NY, I was introduced to the lovely Tracy Wells who recently started a company called Sayuki Custom Cosmetics. After hearing about her amazing new products I knew I was going to need to test them out so I made an appointment to meet with her and walk through the process.
First they take a bare-faced, close-up photograph of your face, then the computer program analyzes your skin tone and provides the machine with a breakdown of the percentage of yellow, white, red, and black in your complexion.
The process of inputting millilitres of each distinct pigment into the final products is such a delicate procedure that the machine uses both diabetic needles and heart pumps to get the job done.
In 2 minutes and 30 seconds you can have yourself a custom-made concealer, foundation, or tinted moisturizer in heavy, medium, or sheer, that provides all-day coverage & you can even a hearty dose of SPF with the oil-free sunscreen they offer.
Some of the ingredients they use are Hyalouanic Acid {anti-aging}, Squalene {promotes clear skin}, Sea Kelp {moisture}, 1/2 carat Diamon Powder {luminosity}, and Matrixly {collagen building}. On top of that – Their products are dye-free, fragrance-free, paba-free, and oil-free.
Where you do usually buy your cosmetics? Would you try a custom-made foundation, tinted moisturizer, or concealer?
MCLV Style: Black & White Florals
Even on lovely Spring days I’m not always in the mood for color – That’s why my wardrobe has a hefty dose of moody black & white prints. They’re dramatic and eye-catching without being overly in-your-face which I especially like for hot Summer nights.
{You can shop similar pieces by clicking these hyperlinks: Dress – Vintage, Belt – Banana Republic, Shoes – BCBG Generation, Crossbody Bag – Hobo International, Scarf – TopShop, and Jewelry – JewelMint & Vintage}
{Check out outtakes from this shoot here – Just log into Facebook to view}
My favorite way to spice up a clean black & white look is with a statement piece – A killer necklace, a dramatic shoe, or, as in this case, a bold scarf. I raved about this fun TopShop scarf earlier this Spring {Transitioning From Winter-To-Spring} and clearly the love affaire continues!
What’s your favorite way to spice up a simple look?
BloggerBelle at FashionElles Boutique
I had the great opportunity to spend last Saturday co-hosting a fun event called BloggerBelle at the boutique FashionElles in the Marina neighborhood of San Francisco.
{Beth Animal Print, Complacency Kills Us All, Oh To Be A Muse, Mallory & Whitney of Ready Two Wear, Style Worm, Moi & the hostess of this lovely lovely event – Tee of FashionElles}
In addition to adorable mini cupcakes & pink champagne, I was thrilled to get a chance to meet & get to know a lovely group of Bay Area Fashion Bloggers. I’ve been a big fan of Cheryl of Oh To Be A Muse for a while now so I was over the moon to finally get to meet her in person. I also got a great chance to catch-up with Bethann from Beth Animal Print - We have a fun collaboration coming out soon so be sure to stay tuned! And I was also lucky enough to meet Miss Sasha from the lovely blog StyleWorm, the oh-so-striking Lindsey from Complacency Kills Us All (how great is that blog name?), and the adorable duo Mallory & Whitney from Ready Two Wear.
{My look: Prabal Gurung for Target dress, FashionElles denim vest & my favorite monogrammed Spring clutch from Gigi New York}
Oh, and there was shopping. Lots and lots of shopping. If you haven’t had a chance to check out FashionElles on Chestnut I highly recommend stopping by – They have a fabulous selection of pieces for Spring, gorgeous jewelry, and a sweet & helpful staff to help you with your every styling need.
What’s your favorite boutique to shop at?
Links You’ll Love
I wanted to start off this week’s Links You’ll Love post with a motivational video from Marie Forleo aptly entitled How to Move Ahead When “Everything Sucks.” We’ve all been there and this is a great way to get yourself moving in a productive direction – Enjoy!
Health & Fitness:
When it comes to sweeteners there are more choices today than ever – Sugar, Splenda, Stevia, Agave Nectar, Sweet n’ Low… The list goes on and on. If you’re curious about which products are best for you check out this Guide To Natural Sweeteners.
If you want to make the most of your gym sessions there some common mistakes you should be sure to avoid – True or False: 5 Fitness Myths, Debunked!
Both athletes and gym junkies have their share of habits, routines, and superstitions when it comes to workout fuel. What to eat beforehand. What to eat afterwards. Read Five Pre-Workout Fuel Secrets for Athletes and learn more!
While I firmly believe that every body has a different ideal diet, it is always interesting, and educational, to stay abreast of current studies and research when it comes to health and nutrition. Check out Reginery 29′s No Whey: What Milk Really Does To Your Body.
What’s better than a workout that turns your arms to jelly? A killer playlist that keeps you pumped up and motivated for the entire workout! Home Workout Help: 20 Minutes to Tank Top Arms from PopSugar.
Fashion & Beauty:
One of the most enduring and classic pieces a woman, or a man, can have in their closet is a well-made, well-fitting blazer. If you need some creative new ways to pair yours check out 14 Perfect-For-Spring Blazers We Want Now for some fun new styles.
Do you dress for men? Over the years my motivation and thought process when it comes to dressing for an occasion has changed – I mean, once you realize most men don’t notice if you chop 10 inches off your hair you realize how silly it is to agonize over which pair of shoes to wear. But what happens when a blind date comments on your outfit choice? Tales of Endearment – Skirting Around The Issue.
Are you a fan of nail art? Why not make your trips to the salon or home manicures last a little longer? Check out StyleList’s 6 Secrets to Make Your Manicure Last Longer.
Without a doubt my favorite event each year is the Met Gala – Check my past reviews here {Metropolitan Museum’s Costume Institute Gala 2011} and here {MET Maddness}. Are you as curious as I am about this year’s event? Read Fashionologie’s Everything You Could Possibly Want to Know About the 2013 Met Gala.
If retro inspired hairstyles are right up your alley for Spring then this Style.com tutorial is a must read – A Step-By-Step Guide to Zoe Saldana’s Thirties-Era Waves.
Are you following my adventures on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram yet?
Cupcakes, Champagne + Giveaway
Happy Friday my loves! What better way to celebrate a beautiful Spring Friday than to give away a $50 gift card to Target?
- Prize: $50 Giftcard to Target {Don’t worry, you can shop online if there’s no Target near you!}
- Eligibility: Anyone can enter – International or domestic!
Entering this little contest is QUICK & EASY – I promise – There are TWO different ways to enter so pick either of the simple options below:
- Leave a comment on this post telling me what your first Target purchase will be if you win
OR
- Leave a comment on Facebook telling me what your first Target purchase will be if you win
I’ll announce the winner on Saturday, May 18th!
I’d also like to take this opportunity to cordially invite all you Bay Area residents to join me this Saturday, May 11th at FashionElles. This sweet little Marina boutique is hosting BloggerBelle – Not only do you get a chance to meet & get styled by a handful of lovely bloggers, you also get an exclusive 15% discount.
In addition to myself you’ll get a chance to meet Cheryl of Oh To Be A Muse, Bethann from Beth Animal Print, Sasha from StyleWorm, and Mel & Whit from Ready Two Wear.
Bonus? Complimentary cupcakes & champagne while you shop. Hope to see you there!
Camille K: Vintage Spring Jewelry
I saw a picture of the Camille K Palladio necklace a few weeks ago and it was love at first sight. It’s dramatic and bold – The perfect statement piece for Spring – And it comes in a gorgeous warm gold that’s really flattering and versatile.
{You can shop similar pieces by clicking these hyperlinks: Dress – Zara, Bag – MICHAEL Michael Kors & Shoes – Zara}
{Check out outtakes from this shoot here – Just log into Facebook to view}
I love mixing styles of jewelry and I love mixing metals so I was thrilled with the pieces I wore in this look – The silver bracelet & ring paired with the dramatic antique gold necklace was a stunning combination.
You can shop these one-of-a-kind pieces and more on the Camille K website right here. Can you imagine a more gorgeous gift to get your mom for Mother’s Day?
Do you prefer gold or silver? Or do you like to mix metals like I do?
Are you following my adventures on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram yet?
Spring Must Have: Overalls, Dungarees & Pinafores
After my Spring Must Have: Little White Dress post I want to keep sharing fun new trends that are taking over the streets this season. Another great style that’s popping up all over the place as the weather warms up are overalls – From traditional denim to chic chiffon & lace to dress versions. There are so many options out there that everyone is sure to find the perfect pair to suit their style!
Classic Denim
{Left – This adorable cropped pair is perfect for Spring courtesy of Dash Of Fash & Right – Go old school like B Jones Style with a classic pair of full-length denim overalls. Bonus points for adding a hat!}
If you’re a traditionalist than a pair of overalls in classic denim is probably the right style for you - But that doesn’t mean boring, there are still plenty of styles & silhouettes for you to try out!
{Left: BDG Denim Overalls - $69 @ Urban Outfitters & Right: !iT DenimOveralls – $128 @ Zappos.com}
Fun Prints
{Left – Flirty polka dots & an off-the-shoulder shirt from Lovely By Lucy & Right – Be bold and go for a bright print like Amanda Ware}
If you’re a risk taker who likes to stand out from the crowd a one-of-a-kind look like printed overalls is a must for Spring. The pairs below will make sure you’re anything but a wallflower!
{Left: Motel Dungarees Overalls in Paisley – $85 @ Miss KL & Right: River Island Floral Dungarees – $65 @ Asos.com}
Feminine Pinafores
{Left – Classic black & red combo from Cherry Blossom Girl in Paris & Right – The perfect weekend look from Ordinary People with this cute denim pinafore}
Is a pinafore – aka an overall dress – more up your alley than traditional overalls? Then these sweet styles below will definitely appeal to your more feminine tastes.
{Left: River Island Pinafore Dress – $59 @ Asos.com & Right: Safari Pinafore Playsuit - $68 @ TopShop}
Are you going to try overalls this Spring? Which pair above is your favorite?
{Collaboration} Voyage To Marrakech
One of my favorite trends in stores this Spring are all the fabulous retro-inspired pieces {Looks of the Week – Retro Edition} so I was thrilled to get a chance to wear the newly launched Marrakech-inspired collection from The Factory. Combine these vibrant colors & bold prints with gorgeous vintage costume jewelry from Sasha Maks Vintage and you’ve got a winning look!
{Clothing by The Factory}
{Jewelry can be shopped online at Sasha Maks Vintage, pieces will be available at The Factory through Summer, or you can contact info@sashamaksvintage.com for additional details & private appointments}
{Photography – Jennymay Villarete of J. Villarete Photography, Jewelry & Jewelry Styling - Sasha Maks Vintage & Clothing – The Factory}
If you enjoyed these pieces as much as I did you’ll have to join Sasha Maks & I to celebrate the launch of this beautiful collection tomorrow at The Factory – You can RSVP here.
I hope to see you there!
Looks of the Week
What better way to kick off a new week than drooling over a round-up of stunning looks from around the world? These Spring looks are great and feature all sorts of fun Spring fashion, but I’d like to start with one of my favorite looks so far from 2013.
{Leave it to Atlantic-Pacific to put together a look I adore, head-to-toe, in a hue that normally wouldn’t turn my head. Nope, I’m not a pink girl. But I couldn’t possibly love this Ann Taylor dress more!}
{Denim-on-denim is one of my favorite trends for Spring and I’ve been having a great time putting together unique looks and finding fun new pieces for pairing. This look from Zanita however completely refreshed my love of this trend – From the DIY scarves tied to her H&M heels to the tropic print denim this is a fantastic, chic look.}
{Here’s proof that ladies aren’t the only ones who can have fun mixing things up for Spring – Gents, why not try rolling your jeans to take your look to a whole new level?}
{I adore a good ladypants look and these wide-leg white pants really caught my eye. It’s a simple look but oh-so-chic. Perfect for Mercedes Benz Fashion Week Mexico.}
{I love a good pencil skirt – Obviously – So if you add a bold print and a fun midi length you’ll certainly capture my attention. This Spring-ready Baroque print is beautiful, versatile, and flattering. Great choice!}
{Click the images above to be taken to the original source}
Comment below and tell me which of these looks is your favorite!
Need more fabulous Spring fashions? Check out last week’s post Looks of the Week – Retro Edition.
{Five Facts} Learn About Moi!
My dear friend Brittany of The Subtle Statement tagged me in the oh-so-fun Five Facts post so today I’m going to share some things that you might not know about Moi.
[1.] I hate talking on the phone and prefer any other method of communication. Including snail mail.
{Pompeii, Italy}
[2.] I lived in Rome for six months studying Art History and spent the month before I started classes traveling around Europe with my best friend, and then spent a few weeks in the UK afterwards.
[3.] Photography and writing short stories are two of my favorite hobbies.
{BCBG}
[4.] I’m a speed shopper. I’m serious. I can look through racks of clothes at warp speed and decide if I like something in seconds.
[5.] I would rather wear heels than flats. Not for sartorial reasons though, but because I trip more frequently in flats.
Happy Friday, hope you enjoyed this! What are your plans for the weekends?
Styling 101: Spring Shorts + Vintage Jewelry
There are a few major sartorial milestones throughout the year – The first time you need a coat in the Fall, when it’s time to break out the rain boots during the rainy season, and – Drumroll please – When the weather starts to warm up and it’s time to pull your shorts out of the back of your closet.
{Sasha Maks Vintage Jewelry: Trifari Geometric Lucite Pendant Necklace & Stone and Shell Tassel Necklace}
{You can shop similar pieces by clicking these hyperlinks: Tuxedo Shorts, Tank, Floral Blazer, Heels & Clutch}
{Check out outtakes from this shoot here – Just log into Facebook to view}
The perfect way to start sneaking in shorts while the weather has yet to even out is to add layers on top. This floral blazer is a great piece for transitional dressing because it adds a touch of traditional Spring style to the basic black shorts. Need more ideas for how to pair your shorts this Spring? Check out this Looks of the Week – Shorts Edition post for inspiration.
*Photography & Jewelry Styled by Sasha Maksutenko
Join Sasha Maks & Caity of Moi Contre La Vie to celebrate the launch of the new Spring collection for The Factory {check out our recent collaboration with The Factory for a taste of their amazing clothes – A Retro Day At The Factory}.
You can RSVP for the Voyage to Marrakech Collection Release Party here.
Are you following my adventures on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram yet?
April Round-Up
Rather than focus on the fact that April has somehow just come to an end, I’m trying to focus on all the great things that 2013 has already held and all of the great things I have to look forward to in May and the rest of the year.
- Social Media - I feel like I’m doing an excellent job of staying on top of my main social media outlets {Facebook, Twitter, Instagram & Pinterest} but unfortunately some of my favorites have fallen to the wayside. Time to make them a priority & add updating to my daily To Do Lists.
- Writing, Writing, Writing – Between freelancing, guest blogging, and writing copy for a fabulous new website I’m really enjoying this creative outlet. Stay tuned for more.
- Expansion & Growth – I’m thrilled to announce that I’m available for hire for all your styling needs – From special event & photo shoot styling to season wardrobe updates to closet organization. Check out my Styling Services page for more information & get started today!
- Be Positive – April was a month that taught me quite a bit on this front, including how much my health effects my mindset. When I’m rundown and burned out I have trouble keeping a positive mindset and tend to get off track easily. Time to put some additional time & effort into this goal.
{April Fashions: Top Left – Maxi Skirts For Spring, Top Right – Tribal Prints at Lucky FABB West, Bottom Left - Mixing Animal Prints & Bottom Right – Spring Workwear}
Fashion:
I’m thrilled with my April fashion choices, breaking out my warm-weather clothes, and expanding my boundaries. My biggest sartorial accomplishment this month? Definitely rocking my beloved floral short suit in LA during Lucky FABB West.
{Floral Shorts Suit in Los Angeles}
Food & Fitness:
Unfortunately due to excessive traveling my health went downhill during April – From a poor diet on weekends to stress to back problems this wasn’t the ideal month on this front. But rather than beat myself up I’m going to focus on what changes I need to make for May in order to get back to a happy, healthy place.
May Goals:
Fashion:
May is going to be a month of photo shoots – I’m thrilled to be shooting with three different photographers whose work I really admire this month. Stay tuned for some great new projects & collaborations that I’ll finally be able to share with you!
Food & Fitness:
My goal for May is to get back to basics – No more eating out, no more processed or pre-made foods. Lots of cooking, lots of whole foods, lots of raw, fresh produce. My plan is to eat raw for more of the day with cooked foods at night and lots of supplements and coconut water to help even myself out.
How was your April? Did you achieve your goals for the month?
Are you following my adventures on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram yet?
MCLV Style: Classic Workwear
I’ve shown some love for the classic pencil skirt before {Pencil Skirt: Day-To-Night} but I wanted to share an example of my work style. No, I don’t usually wear head-to-toe black during the Spring, but it was a Friday and I prefer clothes that don’t show stains when I’m traveling!
{You can shop similar pieces by clicking these hyperlinks: Pencil Skirt – BCBG, Peter Pan Top – Forever 21, Heels – Zara & Bag - Just Fab}
{Check out outtakes from this shoot here – Just log into Facebook to view}
I fell in love with this Peter Pan Top when it arrived – It’s a really versatile, fun piece. I’m a fan of Peter Pan collars and the studs are perfect for Spring, this piece looks great with jeans, shorts, or for work with a classic pencil skirt like this one.
What’s your go-to style for work?
Are you following my adventures on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram yet?
Looks of the Week – Retro Edition
With retro styles and Mod fashion being such popular styles this Spring I wanted to do a round-up of some of the fabulous looks I’ve seen lately that make me want to run out and buy all of the Louis Vuitton collection that sparked this trend!
{I can’t imagine a more dramatic or striking look – The black & white color scheme is eye-catching and the styling is spot on!}
{What I love about this look is not only the color combination but the layering of the turtleneck underneath the top. Too. Cute.}
{This eye-catching checkered dress is taken to the next level with great styling - The cap toe ankle strap heels and neon clutch are perfection!}
{Such a sweet dress – I love the subtle print and the flattering color paired with the simple styling.}
{The best way to make these retro styles & prints look great on you is to style them in a way that’s modern and gives it a dose of personality.}
Are you digging all the retro fashions in stores and on the streets for Spring? Which of the great looks above are your favorite?
Links You’ll Love
Health & Fitness:
Rest days and giving your body time to heal itself are vital in not only maintaining a healthy life, but in losing weight or gaining muscle. Read 7 Often Overlooked Signs of Overtraining from Fit Bottomed Girls for some tips on making sure you’re spacing out your workouts.
Sweet potatoes are one of my favorite foods and I love finding new recipes to add to my repertoire – I loved The Fitnessista’s South West Sweet Potatoes so I was excited to try her Mexican Stuffed Sweet Potatoes.
You know that relaxed, unhurried, peace-of-mind you have when you’re on vacation? Well what if you could channel that mindset during your 9to5? Intriguing. I know. Check out The Practice of Work Mind & Vacation Mind, Simultaneously from Zen Habits and prepare to be amazed.
Finding a healthy protein bar that doesn’t cost a small fortune can be a challenge, so why not try making your own? You can’t lose with OhSheGlows’s amazing Banana Bread Protein Bars.
This time of year allergies are a frequent hot button issue. From insomnia and headaches to depression and fatigue – They can be at the root of many common ailments – 4 Hidden Allergy-Related Problems.
Fashion & Beauty:
I’m an avid blog reader and as a result I see lots of DIY posts. But rarely does one jump out at me and scream “make me now!” quite like this one did – Pardon My French DIY from The Daily Savant.
Why not go green and celebrate this Spring by trying out some fun, eco-friendly pieces? WhoWhatWear rounds up some seriously cute lines that you should try – Get Green With This Completely Sustainable Outfit.
It’s happened to all of us – The dreaded wardrobe malfunction. And I’m not talking about Janet Jackson, I mean tearing a seam, realizing your hemline came unraveled, visible bra straps, breaking a heel… Check out how the experts deal with these issues with Lucky Magazine’s 17 Lucky Editor Secrets For Surviving a Wardrobe Emergency.
Does anything say Spring better than a flirty ponytail? Check out A Trendy Life’s adorable Ponytail Round-Up for all the fun inspiration you could need for warm weather updos.
In the market for some cute new sunglasses for Spring? Check out Warby Parker’s Great Gatsby themed 1922 Collection or some of these other great retro versions – Spring Sunglasses.
Spring Inspiration
Happy Thursday! Here’s a little Spring eye candy to help you get through the week – Just one more day left and we can all enjoy this gorgeous weather by doing as little as humanly possible.
(1) Prints - Bold prints mixed w/ bright heeled sandals – Try these geometric print pants from Asos {$49} and these purple wedges from J.Crew {$179 on sale}
(2) Color - Jewel tones are a must – Get your fix with these Calvin Klein emerald cropped pants from Zappos {$79}, this amethyst tank from French Connection {$22 on sale}, or this yellow denim moto jacket from Steve Madden {$98}
(3) Statement Jewelry – Make a statement this Spring/Summer with a dramatic statement necklace like this spiked crystal Bar III necklace from Macys {$42}, this tribal bib from Forever 21, or this bold blue collar from TopShop {$30}
(4) Chambray - Denim-on-denim is a great weekend style for Spring so try out TopShop’s chambray shirt {$58} or Express’s light wash denim shirt {$57}
(5) Black & White – Whatever the season, whatever the weather, there’s a chic black & white look that’ll suit the occasion perfectly – Give this black & white striped dress from White House {$150} or this black & white printed maxi dress from Calvin Klein {$78} a chance and you’ll be thrilled with the results
(6) Florals - Between brilliant colors & fun mixtures florals are anything but boring this season. You’re bound to find something eye-catching to wear for Spring/Summer so get the look with Prabal Gurung for Target pieces or these bright floral dresses from BCBG {$115} or Asos {$47}
(7) Lucite - My obsession with clean clutches knows no bounds and I’m not the only one so check out these versions from Juicy Couture {pink – $148}, Alice + Olivia {black & white – $295}, or Urban Outfitters {clear – $40}
(8) Embellishments - The perfect finishing touch for your warm-weather looks this season are a pair of fun, one-of-a-kind shoes like these BCBGeneration studded sandals from Piperlime {$68}, these colorblock peep-toed wedges from Franco Sarto {$60}, or leopard print pumps from Nine West {$40 on sale}
(9) Colorblocking - Be bold in not only your color choices this Spring/Summer, but also in your mixing & matching by trying styles like this pleated Land’s End skirt {$45}, this one-arm Victoria’s Secret top {$20 on sale}, or this BB Dakota Lewis dress {$88}
{All pictures from my Spring 2013 Fashions Pinterest board}
So tell me – What’s your inspiration this Spring? What trend or style are you dying to try out?
Spring Sunglasses
With The Great Gatsby coming to theatres and Rules of Civility on my bedside table I’m in the mood for fabulous Jazz Age fashions. So with that in mind here are some fabulous sunglasses for Spring that’ll make you feel like Daisy.
The new 1922 Collection launched by Warby Parker is something to keep an eye on – This company has been on my radar since one of the founders, Neil Blumenthal, spoke about the company and their inspiration when I was in NYC in February for IFBCON.
Their round sunglasses come in tortoiseshell and metallic frames and will suit nearly every face. You can also pick up a pair of their eyeglasses if you’re not currently in the market for sunglasses!
This sweet collection put me in the mood for some retro worshiping so here are some other gorgeous sunglasses to get you in the mood for a Great Gatsby field trip this Spring!
Or if you’re in the mood for some high-octane glamour check out this stunning editorial styled by her Highness Karl Lagerfeld for Harper’s Bazaar featuring Arizona Muse, Joan Smalls, and Saskia de Brauw – Cafe Society.
Are you inspired to try some Great Gatsby inspired fashions this Spring? What’s your favorite 1920′s style?
MCLV Style: Floral Shorts in L.A.
Last week I shared some of the amazing women that I met at Lucky FABB West {Lucky FABB: Bloggers You’ll Love} as well as my first look for the conference {Tribal Prints at Lucky FABB West} - For Day Two of the conference I doned this adorable floral shorts suit and snapped some fun photographs with Beth of Beth Animal Print in the hotel lobby.
{You can shop similar pieces by clicking these hyperlinks: Shorts + Blazer – Aqua, Heels – Zara, Necklace – Zara & Bracelet – BCBG}
{Check out outtakes from this shoot here – Just log into Facebook to view}
{How ridiculously cute is this Just Fab bag? Tres chic!}
I ordered this shorts and blazer combo from Bloomingdale’s back in February and have been waiting with bated breath for an opportunity to wear it. What better place than Los Angeles in the Spring and what better venue than a Fashion Blogger conference?
Are you following my adventures on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram yet?
Looks of the Week
Welcome to another Looks of the Week post featuring some great daytime and nighttime looks for this Spring – Everything from brights and dramatic jewelry to great denim pieces and fun separates.
{Bright colors, bold prints, and fun colorblocking. Fabulous from head-t0-toe.}
{While a head-to-toe black look might not necessarily be the first style that comes to mind when you think about Spring but I adore this look – The silhouette of the skirt is flirty & fun, and the statement necklace is really dramatic & eye-catching.}
{I love a great denim-on-denim look and this one is fabulous – I especially love the patchwork chambray shirt.}
{Retro fabulous! I love everything about this look – From the silhouette of the coat to the bell bottom jeans to the fur hat!}
{Floral dresses are perfect for Spring and I love how the sweetness of this butterfly print dress is tempered by the denim jacket & twisted belt.}
Which of these looks is your favorite? Are you inspired to try anything new this Spring?
Spring Cleaning
When Spring starts to peek out its head my need to clean, reorganize, and purge become overwhelming. I want to redecorate and cut my hair and rethink my beauty routine and clean out my closets. Needless to say it’s a productive time of year in my household.
Closet:
The first task that I tackle each Spring is rearranging and inventory my closet – Move your warm weather clothes so they’re more accessible, store your Winter pieces, and make a list of new pieces that you want to add for the season.
- Simple Sorting Trick For Closet Cleanouts from Apartment Therapy
- Get It Together: Tips For A Closet Overhaul from Refinery 29
- Creating An Intentional Wardrobe from Holly Would If She Could
*Need more inspiration to get into your closet and start cleaning? Check out my Closet Porn Pinterest board for some seriously gorgeous closet shots that’ll motivate and inspire you!
Home & Office Decor:
My go-to reorganization tip for Spring is adding color or fun prints to a room – It’s amazing how much of a change a boldly colored pillow or bouquet of flowers or new piece of art can change the feel of a room!
- Cheap Challenge: $50 Desk Makeovers! from Refinery 29
- Glam Tip: Spring Cleaning from Olivia Palermo
- Spring Cleaning: 12 Things to Do to Spruce Up Your Home from Babble
*Not sure where to start? Check out my Belle Maison Pinterest board for home decor that’ll make you swoon!
Beauty:
Something that’s easy to forget is that your beauty products, skin care, and makeup all have expiration dates. Spring is a great time to go through your makeup bag and bathroom drawers and throw out old or never used bottles – Make room for something new!
- 5 Steps To A Clean Makeup Bag from Glitter Guide
- Spring’s Full of Delicious New Scents from WhoWhatWear
- Spring’s Best Pastel Polishes from Harper’s Bazaar
*Check out my Beauty Must Haves board on Pinterest for some fun new products to try & new ways to organize your goodies
Are you a fan of Spring Cleaning? Tell me – What’s your #1 tip or go-to project each Spring?
Spring Must Have: Little White Dress
The Little White Dress – Otherwise known as the LWD - Is always a Spring and Summer staple. They’re light, airy, and come in an unlimited number of shades, silhouettes, and styles. From flowy maxi dresses & flirty minis to boho lace & chic chiffon - There’s a cut, style, and silhouette ideal for you out there!
{I love the way Nicolette styled her lace LWD – The belt, statement necklace, and bold, colorful bag are all fabulous}
{A fun way to mix up a white-on-white look is interesting fabrics and textures to draw the eye like in this shot.}
{Or you can try a flirty little number like these fabulous Dolce & Gabbana party frocks – The perfect day to night dress for hot Summer nights!}
The key to picking the perfect Little White Dress is in finding what works best for you. If you’re pale like I am a snowy white is going to do nothing for your complexion – Try a shade of ivory or antique white instead.
{Left: Splendid White Maxi Dress - $118 @ Piperlime, Center: Donna Morgan Lace Shift Dress – $80 @ Last Call By Neiman Marcus & Right: Textured Knit Dress – $79 @ Express}
Another thing to keep in mind whenever you’re shopping for white pieces – Be sure to try them on and test the transparency of the fabric before you walk out the door!
{Click on the three top images to be taken to the original source}
Are you going to try out a Little White Dress for Spring? What’s your favorite style?
