Today's Everyday Fashion: The Company Party

Every year the hub's company throws a huge (400 people) party at lovely resort in Washington D.C. This is my fourth year attending, and we always have so much fun! (probably because I have the best date ever) I turned to an oldie but a goodie for my dress. It is the most expensive item I own. I purchased it two summers ago for a wedding and never looked back. After all, a. it will (probably) never go out of style and b. makes my zero curve body look like Marilyn Monroe - sometimes that extra money is totally worth it! :-)

Why this works: For a company party or wedding, pick one part of your body to show off. Here I chose my upper body - the long skirt balances all the skin I'm showing up top. This type of bustier dress is great for small-busted women like me, but would be too much (or not enough, rather) for a larger bust.

Dress: Guess by Marciano, $200
Belt: Express (came with another dress)
Necklace: c/o Stella & Dot
Purse: TJ Maxx/Juicy Couture, $70
Shoes: Marshalls/Guess, $30

A few drinks and much dancing later... :-)

Photo Shoot with Andi Mans

Here's lookin' at you, kid.

This week I had the opportunity to take photos with Andi Mans, an amazing Orlando photographer. She is so sweet, gorgeous and made me feel completely at ease. Check out her website to see tons more photos from our shoot and some outfit suggestions I put together for her clients on "what to wear to a photo shoot." Let me know what you think in the comments section!!

Dress: Express
Belt: Express
Necklace: JcPenney
Headpiece: on loan from Other People's Property
Shoes: Shoe Carnival

Someone get this girl a book deal! This screams back cover.

Enjoying the fro yo (and colorful furniture) at Tutti Frutti

I even dress cute when I hang out in alleys

Blazer: Gap
Shirt: Forever 21
Jeans: Gap
Belt: Gap
Shoes: Ross/BCBG
Watch: Michael Kors
Bracelets: Banana Republic, H&M

Yep, I'm pretty sure Andi did an amazing job!

Five Easy Fashion Resolutions for 2011

Do you have a resolution to be more fashionable in 2011? Here are five easy fashion goals, with tips on how to achieve all of them!

(This is a guest post for Shecky's, to see it on their website click here.)

1. Wear more color

Is your closet full of black, gray and other neutrals? Sounds like it's time to insert some color into your wardrobe! If you are unsure about a color one way to start is to buy a bottom like this red skirt, which keeps the color away from your face. Another tip: take baby steps. Pair your new colorful pieces with all neutrals and let that one colorful piece shine!

Navy blazer: Gap, $70
Shirt: TJ Maxx, $15
Skirt: The Unique Closet, $39.50
Shoes: Restricted/Endless.com, $39

Just like J:
Unique Closet skirt, $39.50
Restricted pumps, $34.99
Gap blazer, $98

2. Try a new shape

Are all of your tops v-necks and crewnecks? It could be time to try something new. A batwing sweater (shown here), a cowlneck, or a shawlneck are all flattering and fun options. And remember: if you are wearing a top with lots of volume, be sure to keep your bottom half slim with a skinny, bootcut or a straight-leg pant.

Sweater: The Unique Closet, $38
Jeans: Gap, $30
Boots: The Tannery (a Boston boutique)

Just like J:
Unique Closet sweater, $38
Lands End gray jeans, $23.99
Zappos boots, $99

3. Remix your closet

Trust me when I say that your closet is an untapped resource full of new outfits waiting to happen! This year, resolve to remix your wardrobe in new and different ways. Here, I show you three ways to wear a LBD: 1. With a turtleneck for extra coverage. 2. With a colorful jacket and tights. 3. Worn as a skirt with a blouse thrown over it. Have some fun in your closet this year!

Dress (throughout): The Unique Closet, $39.50
Necklace (throughout): JcPenney, $20
Turtleneck (first photo): Gap, $20
Pumps (first photo): Calvin Klein/Filene's Basement, $70
Blue jacket (second photo): Alice Temperely/Target, $40
Boots (second-fourth photos): Cynthia Rowley/TJ Maxx, $85
Striped shirt (third photo): TJ Maxx, $15

Just like J:
Unique Closet Strapless Dress, $39.50
JcPenney necklace, $24.99
Macy's turtleneck, $12

4. Wear more patterns

I used to think that I would get bored with patterns quickly so I never bought them. Now I'm realizing that they are really versatile and can be worn with many different outfits. Still not sure? Start with something easy with neutral colors and a pattern that's not too busy, such as the shirt here. Also, think of your patterned shirt as just another solid - a regular ivory shirt would also work in this outfit, but the addition of polka dots is even cuter!

Shirt: The Unique Closet, $36.50
Cardigan: Banana Republic, $35
Belt: Gap, $10
Jeans: Gap, $30
Shoes: Restricted/Endless.com, $39

Just like J:
Unique Closet shirt, $36.50
Gap cardigan in Dew Drop, $39.50
Lands End gray jeans, $23.99
Restricted pumps, $34.99

5. Have fun with accessories

The quickest and easiest way to update an outfit is to add some fun accessories. They are inexpensive and make a big difference. Without the leopard belt and necklaces in this photo, the outfit would be just another ho-hum collared shirt. Resolve to add some spice to your outfits this year with fun accessories!

Shirt: JCrew, $15
Jeans: Gap, $33
Belt: Urban Outfitters, $20
Boots: Aldo, $75
Diamond necklace: LOFT, $15
Fringe necklace: Stella & Dot

Just like J:
Ralph Lauren leopard belt, $24.99
Stella & Dot fringe necklace, $89
Gap cargo shirt, $59.50

Please note: the Unique Closet items featured in this post do not belong to me, they were borrowed for this post. All other items are my regular 'ole clothes.

Today's Everyday Fashion: A Preppy Twist

I love how Shopbop took the ultimate preppy look - a collared shirt and sweater - and gave it a 'tude (photo left). They inspired me to pair my preppy top with some skinny cargos, rockin' boots and a sparkly necklace - for this look, it's all in the details!

Styling tip: A sweater/collared shirt combo is classic look for women and perfect for the office. Try adding some fun updates to your look such as unexpected shoes, a belt and fun jewelry.

Occasion: Work
Photo left: Shopbop.com
Sweater: American Eagle, $30
Shirt: Ralph Lauren outlet, $20
Cargos: TJ Maxx, $17
Belt: Express
Boots: Cynthia Rowley/TJ Maxx, $85
Necklace: JcPenney, $20

Today's Everyday Fashion: Runway to Reality

Runway looks can be tough to re-create - they are, after all, the highest form of fashion fantasy. But this look from Tibi was just what I needed to pull this plaid blazer out of the back of my closet! It may be more than 5 years old, but now I'm loving it paired with wool pants and a ruffled blouse for work.

Styling tip: Most experts will tell you to get rid of a piece of clothing if you haven't worn it in 6 months to a year. But I recommend being a bit more of a pat-rack. My advice is to get rid of anything that doesn't fit or is worn out, bottoms that are out of style and anything that feels too young to you (we all outgrow our style eventually). Things to keep are blazers, items with intricate beading or sequins, and anything that you still love. You might just be tired of an item or need to wait until it comes back into style. I have been so thankful on many occasions for the pieces I held onto and this blazer is a great example!

Occasion: Work
Photo left: Tibi runway
Blazer: Express (more than 5 years old)
Shirt: Banana Republic, $15
Pants: Gap, $15
Belt: American Eagle/Filene's Basement, $5
Shoes: Restricted/Endless.com, $39

Best Dressed at the Golden Globes

These are my picks for "best dressed" at the Golden Globes last night! (Kyra Sedgwick was my #7 pick) What were your favorites?

Today's Everyday Fashion: Flares are Back

I have sooo been looking forward to wearing these jeans that I scored at Gap for $15 a couple weeks ago. Don't get me wrong, I still love my skinny jeans, but I'm also excited that flares have come back in style full-force! Tell me - what is your favorite style pants to wear and why?

Why this works: My favorite thing about skinny pants is that you can wear any shoe height and they work. For pants this flared though, it's important to get the right heel height so the bells look just right. With a heel too short the bells will "puddle" and look sloppy, and with heels too high your pants will be too short.

Occasion: Church and errands
Leather jacket: Banana Republic, $150
Shirt: Ralph Lauren outlet, $20
Belt: H&M
Jeans: Gap, $15
Shoes: Restricted/Endless.com, $39
Diamond necklace: LOFT, $15
Fringe necklace: c/o Stella & Dot Stylist Lori McMinn
Purse: Juicy Couture/Neiman Marcus Last Call, $115
Watch: Michael Kors, Christmas present
Bracelets: Banana Republic, $10-15

Today's Everyday Fashion: The Shopping Trip

Occasion: Shopping
T-shirt: Forever 21, $16
Jeans: American Eagle, $33
Belt: H&M
Boots: Bakers, $95
Necklace: c/o Designs by Mandi
Watch: Michael Kors, Christmas present
Bracelets: Banana Republic, $10-15
Purse: Juicy Couture/Neiman Marcus Last Call, $115

Here's the picture I tweeted yesterday of my new $4 H&M bracelets - they are the top two (black and small diamonds). The other 3 bracelets are by Banana Republic!

Today's Everyday Fashion: The Snowstorm

Between the snowstorms across the country and the chilly temperatures in Florida, I've been feeling a little cold-weather inspired lately. So I decided to put together an outfit fit for a snowstorm based on this photo (left) from Refinery29.com!

Why this works: Black is slimming, but pile on enough black layers and you'll start to look like a blimp. Adding a bright layer breaks up the black and adds visual interest!

Occasion: Snowstorm
Photo left: Refinery29.com
Coat: Express
Sweater: H&M, $18
Jeans: Gap, $35
Necklace: Forever 21, $6
Boots: Forever 21, $33
Scarf: H&M, $13
Hat: Nine West/Macy's, $20

Today's Everyday Fashion: Blogger Dinner

I had the pleasure of dining with some lovely Orlando bloggers last night to talk social media, blog hosting and comment moderation (that might sound a bit boring but it was a blast!). It was really cold, so I dressed accordingly. I have been obsessed with this Cat Deeley look forever and while my jacket is navy, not green, I decided to copy her look anyway. I threw on my faux fur collar from H&M for extra warmth and off I went!

Styling tip: If you own a fur collar such as this one, you can easily turn it into a scarf. I simply used a large safety pin to attach the two ends together. When I arrived at the restaurant, I removed it by just slipping it over my head. Easy peasy!

Occasion: Blogger dinner
Photo left: FabSugar.com
Navy jacket: LOFT, $50
Belt: Forever 21, $8
Black jeans: Gap, $35
Boots: Cynthia Rowley/TJ Maxx, $85
Faux fur collar: H&M, $15
Watch: Michael Kors (Christmas present)
Earrings: Urban Outfitters, $5

ps. There is some slight variation in the photos because I took the right one on my way out the door. I couldn't find a black t-shirt and I was in a hurry, so I had to go with a gray one. Life happens. :-)

Today's Everyday Fashion: The Vintage Scarf

What does a fashionista wear to a business lunch? This is my answer right here. :-) Technically, I'm wearing a plain sweater over a white collared shirt, which has been done a million times over. But the fit and textures and little touches are what truly make this outfit tres chic!

Why this works: The key to this outfit is the white collared shirt. A regular, stiff collared shirt wouldn't look quite right with the tails hanging down this low. But this particular H&M shirt is super-sheer and thin, which looks great paired with heavy wool pants (a silk shirt would also have the same effect).

Occasion: Business lunch
Photo left: InStyle magazine
Sweater: Gap, $20
Shirt: H&M, $13
Pants: Gap, $15
Brooch: Banana Republic, $15
Shoes: Endless.com/Restricted, $39
Purse: Juicy Couture
Watch: Michael Kors
Scarf: c/o The Vintage Scarf, $19.99

One of my favorite details in today's outfit is this scarf from The Vintage Scarf! If you are looking for authentic, one-of-a-kind vintage scarves for under $20 then you should definitely check them out. I'm looking forward to wearing my silk square knotted around my neck and as a shirt in the summer!

Today's Everyday Fashion: Copper and Magenta

This is my third outfit inspired by an article from Refinery29.com on unique color combinations. (You can check out "green and cobalt blue" and "marigold and neutrals" if you'd like to see the other two.) This type of look is what I like to call a "Florida winter" look. It's winter colors and winter textures (the skirt is wool and the boots are suede) but it's short sleeves and bare legs so you don't sweat to death in the 80-degree weather we've been having. :-)

Occasion: Work
Shirt: Banana Republic, $50
Skirt: J.Crew, $45
Belt: Forever 21, $8
Boots: Cynthia Rowley/TJ Maxx, $85
Bracelets: Banana Republic, $15 and $20

Today's Everyday Fashion: The Grad Student

I call this look 'the grad student' because my inspiration photo and I look like we are headed to the library to study. :-) You don't have to be a student to rock this look though. This comfy and incredibly warm outfit is perfect for grown-up errands and playdates alike!

Why this works: Lots of layers keep you warm in the winter but they can also make you look bulky. Keep your layers unbuttoned and open for a much slimmer silhouette that will still keep you warm. (you can always wrap your sweater tighter if you catch a chill!)

Left photo: Shopbop.com
Sweater: Gap, $50
Denim shirt: Gap, $14
T-shirt: Forever 21, $8
Jeans: Gap, $35
Boots: Aldo, $75

ps. I added a shiny new toy to the blog (Disqus) so the comment section looks different. I'm really excited about it and hope it makes commenting and responding much easier for everyone! Let me know what you think!

Today's Everyday Fashion: Winter White

Despite the fact that it's January and the dead of winter, I totally rocked white jeans for church and errands yesterday! It was a comfy and warm look for a chilly day in sunny Florida.

Why this works: There is definitely an art to wearing white denim in the winter. But paired with tall leather boots and a navy wool jacket, white jeans are just as appropriate in January as any other month! Tell me - do you wear white denim during cold weather?

Occasion: Church and grocery shopping
Photo left: AnnTaylor.com
Wool jacket: LOFT, $50
Shirt: Forever 21, $18
Belt: H&M, $18
Jeans: Gap, $30
Boots: Bakers, $95
Short necklace: Banana Republic, $18
Long necklace: LOFT, $15
Purse: Juicy Couture/Neiman Marcus Last Call, $115

Today's Everyday Fashion: Dinner Date

I went on a fancy schmancy dinner date last night and this is what I wore!

Why this works: I toned down a gold sequined skirt by pairing it with a plain ivory sweater. I tied the look together by adding a sparkly belt and plenty of luxe jewelry.

Occasion: Dinner date
Sweater: Gap
Skirt: New York & Company, $25
Belt: New York & Company, $10
Necklace: Banana Republic, $20
Bracelets: Banana Republic, $10-15
Boots: Cynthia Rowley/TJ Maxx, $85

Today's Everyday Fashion: 5-Minute Outfit

Sometimes I plan an outfit in my head for days. Other times I have 5 minutes to get dressed and throw something together. This was a result of #2. I had planned to wear a cute polka dot outfit (from Thursday) but it was chilly and overcast and I was in the mood for boots. I threw these pieces together and was one happy camper. (Speaking of campers...)

Why this works: The chunky, sparkly necklace and bracelets are the key. Without them I look a bit like I'm going camping. :-)

Styling tip: When you're in a hurry, lay a potential outfit out FIRST to see if the colors work together. Look okay? Go ahead and try it on to see if the fit is rigjht. If the colors + the fit work, then you are a go!

Occasion: Business lunch and errands
Cardigan: H&M, $18
Shirt: Forever 21, $16
Belt: American Eagle/Filene's Basement, $5
Necklace: JcPenney, $20
Pants: Sanctuary Surplus/Nordstrom Rack, $40
Boots: Aldo, $75

ps. I was in an article about blogging in the Orlando Sentinel yesterday, check it out!

Fabulous Finds

The day-after-Christmas sales have come and gone, but now is still a great time to find deals at the mall. Case in point:

1. Zara shirt, $19.99. (orig. $39.99) This shirt looks almost identical to a $35 H&M shirt I returned a few months ago. Cheaper and a better fit = win.
2. Gap jeans, $15. (orig. $70) Who else is excited that flares are back in style?! Note: these go for $59.99 online. Remember what I always say about prices being better in the store? Yeah, that couldn't be more true here. I don't make these things up.
3. Forever 21 earrings, $6. Keeping with the theme of me not being able to turn down things that are sparkly, I had to take these faux diamond beauties home with me!

Today's Everyday Fashion: Uhma Limited

I am loving graphic tees lately, so when Uhma Limited got in touch I was thrilled. This Delware-based company is all about cool graphic design, placed on soft, comfy t-shirts that are between $8-30. They also offer custom-designed t-shirts, so if I ever need "J's Everyday Fashion" shirts I know where to go. :-) I decided to rock the 80's look with my shirt today, but I'll also be pairing my tee with some skinny cargos for trips to the grocery store!

T-shirt: c/o Uhma Limited, $29.99
Blazer: Express
Necklace: LOFT, $15
Skirt: Forever 21, $16
Boots: Cynthia Rowley/TJ Maxx, $85

Today's Everyday Fashion: Retro Chic

I have been in love with this inspiration photo for months, so I was really excited to finally have all the pieces to create it! This look has a bit of a retro vibe and reminds me of a 60's diner for some reason (maybe it's the polka dots? or the mix of aqua and mustard?).

Why this works: This shirt has a lot of volume, so I balanced it out with some super-skinny pants. Belting it also helps contain the volume and create more of a waistline. 

Photo left: BananaRepublic.com
Cardigan: Banana Republic, $35 (I think it's the same one in the inspiration photo)
Shirt: LOFT, $20
Belt: Gap, $10
Necklace: Banana Republic, $20
Jeans: Gap, $35
Shoes: TJ Maxx, $25

Today's Everyday Fashion: The Color Red

Apparently I made some sort of truce with the color red. I used to hate it, but lately I'm really, really diggin' it. I had these pants on my wish list for the past couple months and was finally able to score them for $17 in the day-after-Christmas sale. I have lots of outfit ideas for them and here's the first! I know they are tad flashy so I'm curious to see - what's your take, would you wear red pants?

Pants: Gap, $17
Jacket: Gap, $25
Shirt: Abercrombie, $20
Faux fur collar: H&M, $15
Belt: Limited, $15
Boots: Aldo, $75