Spring Fashion: Fringe, Mules + More
Okay, we had our snow day, so now I’m officially ready for spring. Can I get an Amen? At least dream with me for a minute while we discuss the spring fashion trends …
W I D E L E G P A N T S
High waisted and wide leg are the pants for spring. Typically these are not my style. I’m still lovin’ the skinny jeans, but how cute is this outfit?! I’ll definitely be trying this one out.
O V E R S I Z E D F L O R A L
Floral’s been having it’s moment for a minute, but now it’s all about the BIG floral. This totally makes it seem more wearable to me.
F R I N G E
Fringe: jackets, cardigans, dresses, purses, jewelry – it’s all over the place! Isn’t this jacket from Free People TDF??
S H O E S: M U L E S
I don’t know how comfortable these shoes are yet, but they’re certainly stylish. I’ve seen mule heels, platforms and flats, so there’s something for everyone.
C O L O R E D S U E D E
I honestly don’t think I own anything suede. This trend is all about suede in bold colors for the season. You could even mix suede and fringe together – and mules!
S H O U L D E R B E A R I N G
I love this trend. Shoulders can be so sexy, right? Off the shoulder is definitely the easiest way to go, but also cutout shoulders like in this photo.
Which trend are you looking forward to the most?
xo xo
You might also enjoy: 2013: Sunny Style, 2011: Spring [Fashion] Is In The Air, 2010: Fashion Week Designers Reveal Spring Trends
Weekend in Vegas: Wardrobe Prep
I’m headed to Vegas this weekend with the sistahs (mom and two new sisters, read more on that here) and I’m so excited!
I love traveling, but I’m the worst at packing. I usually just throw a bunch of clothes in a bag, with ideas of outfits in my head, but I never really plan it out. So, in an effort to save space (to of course make room for NEW clothes) and be less stressed deciding what to wear, I’m planning out my outfits for the weekend. What’s funny is for someone who’s such a planner, this actually kind of stresses me out – realizing I can’t change my mind at the last minute about what to wear!
F R I D A Y N I G H T
[comfortable for the plane, but cute enough to step into vegas || t-shirt, Forever 21; jeans, BlankNYC, booties + cardigan, Elysian Boutique]
S A T U R D A Y
[focus on comfortable shoes for walking and quick dress changes for shopping || dress, Elysian Boutique; shoes, DSW]
[dinner reservations at Nobu calls for fur + bling || dress, necklace + fur vest, Riffraff; shoes, BCBG]
S U N D A Y
Day outfit: I will be spontaneous and purchase something Saturday to wear for Sunday! Eeek!
[sunday afternoon show + evening drinks overlooking the strip || jacket, H&M; dress, Elysian Boutique; clutch, Ann Taylor Loft]
M O N D A Y
[after a weekend in vegas, it’s time for comfort and casual heading home || boyfriend jeans, J. Crew]
Come back next week to see our Weekend Picturebook from Vegas. Hope you have a wonderful weekend wherever you are!
xo xo
Oscars 2014: 5 Best + Worst Dressed
B E S T D R E S S E D
{Cate Blanchett, Armani // This dress and those applique details are just a dream. She looks like a goddess, just floating along without a care in the world. The nude could easily wash her out, but somehow it complements her skin and hair perfectly.}
{Lupita Nyong’o, Prada // Oh my goodness, breathtaking. She set the bar pretty high as she’s been killing it all awards season, but this “Nairobi” blue instantly set her apart from her peers. Only change in my opinion – lose the headband. It makes her look too young.}
{Angelina Jolie, Elie Saab // Angelina Jolie (and Brad Pitt) are practically royalty in the movie star realm, and she totally brought it. This is the definition of confidence and age-appropriate sexy.}
{Charlize Theron, Dior // Talk about a simple stunner. The fit of this dress could not be more perfect and I absolutely love the nude straps. Top it off with perfect hair, makeup and accessories and you’ve got a winner.}
{Kate Hudson, Versace // I really have no words except, just look at her. The plunging v-neck accentuates her fit figure flawlessly and that cape takes it from beautiful to outstanding.}
Honorable Mentions: Jennifer Lawrence, Olivia Wilde
W O R S T D R E S S E D
Okay, to be fair, there really wasn’t any look on the red carpet I thought was just awful. Overall, the gowns were beautiful, but the five below were just some of my least favorites.
{Jennifer Garner, Oscar de la Renta // I just don’t love this for the Oscars. She looks too much like a high-end flapper and the neckline is too grade school. Spice it up a little bit, Jen.}
{Kristen Bell, Cavalli // I ADORE Kristen Bell, so I hate to put her on this list. Again, it’s not horrible, but it’s not great either. The dress is fine, but the entire look is a little boring and safe. Also, the middle part hair? No.}
{Anne Hathaway, Gucci // This just looks strange. I can’t really put my finger on it, but it kind of looks like she’s wearing an armor breastplate on top of a gown. Sorry, Anne.}
{Sally Hawkins, Valentino// Sally, this was your moment! You were nominated for the first time! You could have killed it and you totally lost it. As we saw, the nude and applique were huge trends, but she did not pull it off properly. It looks like this dress was not fitted for her at all and she just threw it on last minute.}
{Amy Adams, Gucci // I was so excited to see what Amy was going to wear after her amazing dress at the Golden Globes … and this was totally underwhelming. It’s a beautiful dress, but the look is just so-so. I would have completely changed the hair and accessories to make this look more sexy.}
xo xo
Fall Trend: Pastels
Typically August makes me yearn for Fall because it’s just so hot you want to die. But this year, it’s the opposite. It feels like Fall is creeping in early and it makes me eager for Pumpkin Spice Lattes, football, cozy sweaters and beautiful foliage.
As I’ve been reading up on Fall fashion in my magazines, one trend has stood out: pastels. Pastels for Fall?? I know, sounds strange, so I’ve put together a lookbook of some cute pastel images to inspire you for the upcoming season.
Tip: the key is to mix with autumnal colors like browns, greys and winter white
xo
You might also enjoy: Hello Fall; Hello, Fashion, Coachella Fashion Awards
Coachella Fashion Awards
Coachella, according to my Instagram and Twitter feeds: Celebrities come together in a desert to outdress each other’s hippie attire and lounge poolside at picturesque parties. Oh and I think there’s something about music, too.
[best day to night transformation – julianne hough]
[best hat + sunglasses combo – alessandra ambrosio]
[best “trying to look like a hippie, but I’m so not” – paris hilton]
[best sexy day makeup – diane kruger]
[best poolside loungewear – sophia bush]
[best easy breezy – whitney port]
[worst dressed – vanessa hudgens]
[worst dressed couple – kristen stewart, robert pattinson]
[worst florals – katy perry]
[most out of place attire – sophia bush, eli roth]
* * *
[best poolside party]
Catch me next Monday when I’ll be reviewing weekend 2 of Coachella!
xo xo
Sunny Style
Today feels like the first truly spring day we’ve had. As I’ve been doing housework with the doors and windows open and Olli has been luxeriating in the sun, I’ve been daydreaming of permanently warm weather and its accompanying spring style.
1. Keds for Kate Spade New York; 2. Chino Shorts, J. Crew; 3. Textured Peplum Top, Banana Republic; 4. Henry, Marc by Marc Jacobs; 5. Mani Pedi Fund Cory Pouch, Rebecca Minkoff; 6. Summer Straw Hat, J. Crew
xo xo
life lately {media challenge edition}
So what did we do during those two weeks of our media fast? Here’s a peek at my life lately.
[NWAFW]
From top to bottom: NWAFW, The Chancellor Hotel; Friday night with Amanda; Saturday night walking the runway with Piper; Butternut Squash Ravioli = amaaazing, Union Kitchen + Drinks
[TRIP TO OHIO]
From top to bottom: Getting dressed up to see musical Sister Act with Mom; Commercial shoot in Cleveland; My Ohio welcoming meal – margherita pizza, homemade meatballs, pasta, fried artichokes, 3 Palms Pizzeria; Sleeping with my Roxie baby
[EVERYTHING ELSE]
From top to bottom: Two-day work session with Facebook, 21c Museum Hotel; Curling up with a good book + good wine; Olli soaking up the sunshine; One of many game nights; Norman Rockwell Exhibit + The Rail + Club Frisco = perfect Friday night
xo xo
Guest Blog: Little Dutch Wife
Happy Wednesday, friends!
Quick post today just to refer you to go read my guest blog over at Little Dutch Wife. As part of my dear friend Erin’s blog series Operation Revamp she’s been writing about revitalizing her wardrobe by getting rid of excess and defining her style. I was so honored when she asked me to share my closet essentials and how we have been getting rid of excess in our life through our 7 study. I don’t want to give it all away, but below is a sneak peek at 1 of my 5 closet essentials … now go read about the rest!
xo xo
The Best and Worst of Gossip Girl Fashion
As a tribute to the series finale of one of my favorite shows, I wanted to reminisce over the ups and downs of Gossip Girl fashion. Throughout the six seasons I’ve always had my own commentary on the choice of clothing. Known for its fashion forward and exquisite pieces, Gossip Girl will always be heralded as a fashionista’s guide to living in the city.
[The Best]
B certainly knows how to mix her florals
Chuck can pull off anything, including pink
My all-time favorite Serena look
Can I start riding horses, and dress like this?
Relaxed and suave, just the way I like it
Adore the dress and the necklace
Bright and beautiful
A best for S & Lonely Boy
Simply exquisite – B’s wedding dress by Elie Saab
[The Worst]
Very Lonely Boy and very terrible
Just.too.much.
This is probably Little J’s best look, and it’s still on the worst list
This is just dowdy, and B, you are anything but
You’ve come a LONG way, Mr. Bass
aaaand so have you, S
As adorable as this picture is these are not your best looks, S & B
* * *
Similarly, check out this article from The Huffington Post – 10 Things Gossip Girl Taught Me About Fashion. I couldn’t have said it better myself.
you know you love me, xo xo
from day to play
I find it can at times be difficult for a young professional to look young and professional at once. My biggest fear when I first joined the corporate world (this is very telling of me) was that I would turn into a dowdy, average dresser. I want to keep my personality in my clothes while still looking appropriate. Another challenge is often quickly changing from a work day to an evening play date a la happy hour or dinner with the girls.
So below are some tips for how to stay fresh, cute and professional from day to play.
[for play = take hair down + red lip]
[for play = change pants for dark skinny jeans + fun heels]
[for day = + black skinny pants, flats]
[for play = + chunky necklace, switch bag for clutch]
[for play = change into colored/patterned top + leather jacket]
[for day = + shrunken blazer]
What are your day to play tips? XO
hello, fall; hello, fashion
Day 12: I’m thankful that I’m financially blessed enough to be able to celebrate good news by going out.
Day 13: I’m thankful for an unexpected compliment today at the post office. Don’t those just make your day?!
* * *
FALL = fashion
I vow this year to take more risks in my fall wardrobe. So I’m sharing some inspiration for the season I hope to shamelessly steal from and make my own. My 2012 fall fashion advice = brights on bottom, nudes on top.
{mint!}
{best ombre}
{current fall obsession – Michael Kors Hamilton Artisan Tote}
{need more fur}
{burgundy + metal tip shoes = both hot fall trends}
{leopard, always}
{hat, yes yes yes}
{super bright, super cute – also, the shoes}
{chunky gold}
{glam + slouchy sweater = perfect}
What’s your fall style?
You might also enjoy: Falling for Fall, Northwest Arkansas Sartorialists {fall fashion}
Pre-Weekend Pop Candy
I love pop culture. I love entertainment news. I love celebrity gossip.
So before we’re interwined in our own weekend gossip, let’s revel in some pop candy.
The young engagement? I approve. Aren’t they just dazzling? {Liam Hemsworth + Miley Cyrus}
Speaking of couples, here’s another cutie. Spiderman better not let me down. {Emma Stone + Andrew Garfield}
Okay, so this hottie is gettin’ all the buzz lately from True Blood to Magic Mike – but, who remembers him as bartender Owen from One Tree Hill?? {Joe Manganiello}
*sigh* Is anyone else dying without Revenge on Wednesday nights? Tidbit: the show is moved to Sundays in the fall.{Connor Paolo, Emily VanCamp, Gabriel Mann, Joshua Bowman}
Hot. Hot. HOT. As always. Blake is one of my girl crushes. Did you hear she and Mr. Reynolds just bought a house together in Bedford, NY? {Blake Lively}
How quaint.
Oh, just lunch in Paris for the famous Kimye. I still don’t approve, though I do enjoy reading about their lavish relationship. Check THIS out. That boy can spend money. {Kanye West + Kim Kardashian}
Until next time,
Dear Spring Santa,
{more lace}
{red blazer}
{dodocase for iPad}
{spring flowers}
{bright skinnies}
{a fun, outdoor soiree}
{rose gold}
{vaca}
{Vince Camuto flats}
{goldendoodle}
2012: resolutions via Kate Spade
Dear Kate Spade,
How do you know me so well? How did you so perfectly capture my 2012 resolutions that I couldn’t seem to form into words? Well, no matter that now, but thank you.
P.S. My birthday is this month, and if you’re searching for something to get me, Kate Spade will do ♥
Head, heels & standards
“Keep your head, heels and standards high.”
– via a chalkboard in my best friend’s kitchen, i.e. why we are best friends
05.28.11
Our wedding pictures have finally arrived! Below is a snapshot of my perfect day.
*
“Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity.
Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful. Let the message of Christ dwell among you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom through psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit, singing to God with gratitude in your hearts. And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.”
– Colossians 3:12 – 17
{Botanical Gardens of the Ozarks}
{story time with my girls to calm my nerves}
{BFFL}
{so darn cute}
{olivia + emma + zoe = most adorable flower girls ever}
{my new father-in-law}
{what a studly group of men}
{the best part of the bride walking down the aisle – watching the groom}
{so many emotions}
{maid of honor + best man}
{best bridesmaids a girl could ask for}
{so epic}
{“I’ve only waited 7 years for this!”}
{beautiful mother}
{first dance}
{I definitely get my dance skills from my dad}
{my new parents-in-law}
{most incredible speech I’ve ever heard}
{bromance}
{time to party}
{so much dancing}
{and it comes off}
{pink mustang getaway car}
{one of my favorite parts of the night}
{Aruba here we come!}
*
and finally the wedding video, which shows the entire evening so perfectly.
PSL, Boots + Candy Corn
Something happened —
fall, er, winter it seems, came quickly
and so did the busyness of the holiday season.
*
Life update:
*this week (and presumably next) has been a blur with work + finalizing media relations/scripts for the Charity Challenge of Champions next weekend
*a new second job that I am SO excited about: Northwest Arkansas Associate Editor for AY magazine
*PSL (Pumpkin Spice Latte) is back and boy is it exciting – but please don’t ask the husband how he feels about it
*a lot of my friends/family are following after their passions in an inspirational way, and though I admire and often envy them, God has given me contentment with where I am, which is a really wonderful place
*I’m starting a 3-day detox diet tomorrow in preparation for a new healthy living plan that includes no sweets for a month – so pardon my grumpiness for a few days, and please don’t tempt me
*husband bragging update: taught his first rock climbing class at the fitness center today; is now a buyer for L&C; and is just as adorable and fabulous as ever
*
Fall anticipation:
*Boots, boots BOOTS – I need new fall working girl boots, suggestions?
*Halloween – although it’s a month away I’m already terribly excited for pumpkin carving, hay rides, brainstorming couple costumes and CANDY CORN.
*Scarves – I just bought a fabulous leopard print one at BR today and quickly paired it with a thin crewneck sweatshirt, leggings and cowboy-esque rainboots to update my rainy day ensemble for dinner out with a girlfriend
*a particular October weekend that includes Ben Rector and Auburn at Arkansas
*oh, and fall TV that starts this week – Gossip Girl, Heart of Dixie, New Girl, Castle, Glee, Modern Family, How I Met Your Mother – so many shows, so little time!!
P.S. I’ve been watching High School Musical while writing this and it still makes me as giddy/unbelievably happy as it did when it came out, and yes I’m 22. (If you didn’t already know this about me, you have a lot to learn.)
“It’s a crowd favorite. Everybody loves a good jazz square.”
“It’s just dancing. Sometimes I think it’s cooler than homework.” XO
Northwest Arkansas Sartorialists {Fall Fashion}
Fall is almost here! So in preparation for fall fashion, I asked a couple of my fashionista friends with two different, but equally wonderful styles to share what they’re looking forward to the most.
Daily blog reads
Tomboy Style (tomboystyle.blogspot.com)
My New Roots (mynewroots.blogspot.com, I think…)
Cup of Jo (joannagoddard.blogspot.com)
Three words to describe my style
Classic, vintage, quirky
Fall must-haves
Navy and white striped J.Crew dress
High-waisted, wide-leg jeans
Fairisle cardigan
(Plus, colored cords, pleats and menswear — with a bicycle and crunchy orange leaves to pedal through!)
One go-to fall piece I already have
Brown leather Report penny loafers. Not only are they a classic shoe investment that I’ll be able to wear for years, but they are a fun reminder of the first days of school of my childhood — yes, I was one of those little girls who wore little skirts and knee socks and penny loafers. Needless to say, I’ll be re-inventing the back-to-school uniform now that I’m older: think trouser jeans, a gold boyfriend watch, a striped blouse topped with a blazer and an ethnic-inspired scarf with, of course, the classic loafers.
Fall thing, not fashion related, I’m looking forward to the most
Caramel apple spice, from Starbucks!! Amazing!
Three words to describe your style
Classic, chic, sometimes bohemian
One store for fall fashion
Banana Republic. I can always find something that’s classy and spot on trend. 
Great fit and great choices! And their quality can’t be beat!
Foolproof fall looks
Boots boots boots! I’m OBSESSED! Oversized sweater, skinny jeans, and riding boots.. and an amazing bag. Cardigans are a must.. I’d say invest in a NICE neutral cardigan. Look for fabrics that don’t pill easily. It’s hard to tell with wool and silk fabrics – stay away from cheap merino/silk/angora they use shorter threads so it’s cheaper but will start balling up the first time you wear it! Oh, and clogs!
What fashion piece are you dying to wear this fall?
Travel Chic
How do you dress when you travel? Is it all about comfort? Style? Or in-between? I’ll never forget my mom telling me that my grandma was always dressed to the nines when she traveled – that’s how she was raised and that’s how she thought it should be. At first, I thought this was absolutely ridiculous, but as I grow older (and wiser, I hope) I’m starting to find a good balance between my grandmother’s legacy and my personal style for the airport runway.
First, let me share a taste from one of my new absolutely favorite books of all time that sums it all up perfectly – Classy by Derek Blasberg “Because if you’re not a lady, chances are you’re a tramp.”
Though it’s too small to read, you get the picture. At the airport (and life, of course), we want to be a lady, not a tramp. So here are a few celeb examples I think wonderfully depict airport fashion:
{Rachel Bilson – my go-to style girl. Simple, modest and chic.}
{Lauren Conrad – keeping warm in an oversized sweater, but pairs it elegantly with comfortable black boots and tights. And of course a hat, because you may not have time to fix your hair, but can still look classy.}
{Kim Kardashian – huge fan of her, huge fan of black, huge fan of leopard. Fabulous, fun outfit.}
{Cat Deeley – though the shoes are too odd for my taste, again love the all black ensemble with a statement bag – modern and comfortable.}
{Beyonce – while this isn’t exactly my style, it’s worth sharing. Her oh-so-comfy outfit is updated to more than pajamas with the cardigan, jewelry and heels.}
{Kim – I couldn’t resist a second picture that is a great example of how to update jeans for a classy airplane ride.}
So please share, what is your airport style?
This is your life, is it everything you dreamed
Last time I saw you bloggers, I was “An Apple A Day.” Don’t be alarmed, this blog will be very similar – simply chronicling a new life and due to a new last name, we had to part ways.
As an introduction to the new blog, here’s a tidbit about me:
Recently married to my highschool sweetheart.
Recently graduated from the University of Arkansas with a degree in Journalism.
Recently employed at Sam’s Club as Public Relations and Social Media Coordinator.
My life is changing from a single girl livin’ it up in college to an eight to five working girl who’s just trying to figure out life in between.
This is my blog of all things mille – love, faith, fashion, food, adventure and life.
*
I’ve thoroughly missed blogging. I’ve seen pictures, recipes, advice, inspiration and so much love that I wanted to share with you. To make up for it, my goal is to post something every day this week. (Hey, we’ve got a lot to catch up on. I’m MARRIED!)
Get excited. My theme for tomorrow?
Life Lessons From An Aruban Honeymoon
Spring Fashion Must-Haves
With the beautiful weather we’ve been having all I can think about is spring fashion. These are a few of the things currently on my wish list.
{I love white pants, and this white suit is stunning for the spring}
{I found this image and couldn’t resist. Yes, men can pull off white jeans and this is exactly how. Absolutely ADORE this look}
{I’ve been wanting a biker jacket all winter and never got one. This is a beautifully updated version for spring from J. Crew}
{As is this one from Rag & Bone, except, minus the pants. Don’t you just love the zebra detailed lining?}
{I’ve never been a huge fan of maxi dresses, but this one from Cavalli is fabulous. I’m hoping to find one similar for my Aruba honeymoon!}
{Nail polish of the season? Coral. Thank you Tay for demonstrating it so elegantly}
{Must have shoes: neutral wedges. These from Aldo will go with anything and everything}
{As much as I try, I’m not one for wearing bright colors. Thus, for spring it’s time for bold accessories like this eccentric Balenciaga watch}
Spring [Fashion] is in the Air
As a tribute to March and a prayer for warm weather (and no more snow, tornadoes, earthquakes, etc.) I’ve decided to start my spring fashion list of hot trends and must-haves. And what better way to begin than by my favorite Oscar 2011 fashion look, Mila Kunis.
This look exemplifies everything I want for spring: sexy, lacy, bold, confident, unique.
To be honest I wasn’t sure what I thought about this dress at first glance, and then it just hit me. I think it’s reminiscent of love at first sight — I was unaware of it at first, because I’m not sure if I believe in that sentiment, and then I just realized, this is the one.
For those of you non-fashion lovers out there this probably sounds very cheesy, but for those of you like me, you know exactly what I mean.
Anyway, this Elie Saab dress is stunning in so many ways and will provide the basis of my spring look book.
Lace
Though I’ve never been much of a lacy fan, I’m reconsidering it for spring. My problem with lace has always been one of too much femininity. It’s romantic, delicate, girly, sweet — none of which I’ve never used to describe my personal style. But this trend saw a lot of diversity at the spring fashion shows and is bringing a new generation of lace that I can definitely get behind — sexy and glamorous.
Bold colors
Let’s turn to another example from the Oscars to prove the power of bold.
This was the first dress I saw on the red carpet and it nearly took my breath away. I didn’t even know who this woman was. Now I know. Twenty-year-old Jennifer Lawrence from Winter’s Bone. 20 years old! Can you believe that? Studies have shown that red is the sexiest color for girls and guys to wear. And doesn’t she look sexy AND confident?
Bold colors should be worn head held high. They make a person stand out in a sea of safe LBDs. And though I am often guilty of choosing the safe black route, which will always be a classic, if you want to turn heads this spring stick with my mantra: Go for the bold!
Michael Kors
Accessories: Gold & Lucite
Gold has always been a favorite of mine and seems to be a hot accessory for winter and spring. Gold accessories come in such a wide range they can make a simple outfit more elegant or a party dress more funky. The gold metallic perfectly complements the spring break tan and bold colors, showing off the body’s natural shimmer.
Though lucite was really a big trend last spring, it’s still hot for 2011. Lucite is a solid, transparent plastic, seen everywhere from necklaces to earrings to bangles to high heels. The fun look is a mix of sophistication and innocence. (Aren’t these similar to the plastic bangles I wore growing up?)
Add the two hot accessory trends of gold and lucite together, and you get some amazing modern jewelry.
Celebrity Style of the Week: Rachel McAdams
Rachel McAdams is one of my favorite stars in Hollywood and always exudes beauty and grace in everything she does. Though my initial thoughts for this portion of my blog was to include stars that had a unique sense of street style, I came across this photo and couldn’t turn away.
McAdams wore a ruched metallic Lanvin dress with black mesh pumps and Fred Leighton diamonds to the Morning Glory premiere in New York. With tousled locks and a perfectly curve-hugging dress, McAdams shows her equal affinity for the girl next door look and a sultry, but classy style.
m.davis xoxo 
