Win a Dress from Line & Dot! [now closed]

How cute are these dresses?! I'm so excited to introduce you guys to Line & Dot, a fresh and contemporary brand of clothes sold in boutiques in more than 5 countries. The white dress (above) was featured in the March issue of InStyle and I was instantly smitten. And guess what - one of these dresses can be all yours! Just follow these easy instructions to win:

1. Become a fan of the Line & Dot Facebook page

2. Become a fan of the J's Everyday Fashion Facebook page

3. Leave a comment below and let us know which dress you like best! (include your email address if you want me to contact you when you win)

A winner will be chosen at random on Monday at noon. Good luck!

And the winner is... Beth! Congratulations!!

Today's Everyday Fashion: Well That's Just Random

Today's look is a bit of a loose interpretation. For some reason this random combo popped into my head when I spotted the inspiration photo in a J.Crew catalog, so even though it wasn't a close match, I just rolled with it. Sometimes going with your first instinct pays off!

Why this works: Some outfits are all about matching your colors closely. Other outfits work because they pair completely random colors. In today's look. I mixed three totally different tones (pastels, brights, neutrals) into one random but polished look. Don't be afraid to try this at home. :-)

Occasion: Work
Inspiration photo: J.Crew
Cardigan: H&M, $18
Shirt: Banana Republic, $15
Skirt: Banana Republic, $40
Belt: Gap, $15
Necklace: Banana Republic, $20
Shoes: BCBG/Ross, $23
Watch: Michael Kors, Christmas present
Bracelets: Forever 21, $8

Spring Shopping Guide (All Items Under $100!)

The spring 2011 runways were full of color-blocking, ’70s glamour, florals and lace. But for those of us who shop at the mall, what does spring 2011 look like? Here’s a guide to the top 10 trends for spring and where to buy them for under $100!

Pink: Pink is without a doubt the number one color on everyone’s minds this spring. There is no wrong way to wear it, and hues range from blush pink to brilliant magenta. Pick one that works for you!

1. Banana Republic Silk Flouncy Ruffle Tank, $69.50
2. Limited Yoke Panel Pencil Skirt, $59.90
3. Gap Skinny Leather Bow Belt, $24.50
4. Limited High Neck Ruffle Top, $39.90
5. Modcloth Second Interview Top, $52.99
6. Banana Republic Cotton Slub Roll-Up Tee, $39.50

Maxi dresses: Maxi-lengths were seen all over the runway. Try this trend in real life with a print or material you love (you’re wearing a lot of it, after all!). Pair with flats for a beachy look or dress it up with heels for a night out.

1. Victoria’s Secret Ruffle Maxi Dress, $78
2. Old Navy Jersey Cross-Front Maxi Dress, $29.50
3. Charlotte Russe Halter Striped Maxi Dress, $26.99
4. The Unique Closet Medallion Beaded Mermaid Maxi Dress, $42.50

Wedges: One of the easiest ways to update your wardrobe is with new shoes. This spring, the ’70s are back in a major way, and with that comes a resurgence of the wedge shoe. Bonus: they’re adorable and comfy!

1. American Eagle Strappy Wedge Sandal, $49.50
2. Nine West Nacia, $89 on Piperlime.com
3. MIA Biscotti, $59 on Piperlime.com
4. MIA Piazza, $79 on Piperlime.com

Tie-Neck Tops: I like to think of a tie-neck top as the woman’s version of necktie. It’s professional, but still super-feminine. Wear it with boyish trousers or a pencil skirt to work, or with a sweater layered on top so that the tie hangs down the front!

1. ASOS Pussybow Short Sleeve Blouse, $44.83
2. Modcloth Amour, Amour Top, $64.99
3. Gap Chambray Tie Neck Blouse, $59.95
4. ASOS Short Sleeve Chiffon Mix Pussy Bow Blouse, $35.86

Flares: As another nod to the '70's, the flare jean is also a huge trend for spring. Wear with the aforementioned wedge shoe for some seriously long legs and a laid-back style!

1. Express Rerock Flare Leg Extended Tab Jean, $98
2. Gap New Wide Leg Trouser Jeans, $69.50
3. American Eagle ’77 Hi-Rise Flare Jean, $49.50

White Dresses: White dresses are everywhere. This delicate frock will look great with a summer tan, but it can also be worn under a green army jacket and brown boots to transition it through spring!

1. American Eagle White Corset Tube Dress, $39.50
2. Reformed by the Reformation Blanche Dress, $78 at Urban Outfitters
3. Old Navy Gauze Crochet-Trim Dress, $29.50
4. Delia’s Lace Shirtdress, $44.50

Floral: Nothing screams spring like a bunch of flowers, and that is exactly what retailers are giving us this season. Florals come in all shapes, sizes and colors, so pick one that appeals to your style and body type, and wear away!

1. Express Ruffled-Front Belted Dress, $79.90
2. Old Navy Pintucked Blouson Tunic, $26.50
3. Ann Taylor LOFT Poppy Explosion Shell, $49.50
4. Modcloth Sequined Garden Top, $57.99
5. Limited Printed Poncho, $49.90
6. The Unique Closet Forever Young Floral Crochet Top, $42.50
7. Forever 21 Rosy Print Tunic, $17.80
8. Forever 21 Painted Tulips Skirt, $13.80

Pool Hues: Bright colors in all shades were seen on the catwalks, but bright blue pool hues really stood out. Don’t be afraid to give these gorgeous blues and turquoise tones a try come warmer temps!

1. ASOS Linen Tailored Pencil Dress, $53.79
2. Forever 21 Refined Capsleeve Dress, $27.80
3. Charlotte Russe Ruffle Front A-Line Dress, $19.99
4. Express Bubble-Sleeve Top, $29.90

Shoulders: It’s all in the details this spring—shoulder details, that is. Try an open-shoulder tee for a casual, funky look or wear this trend to work with a blouse that has ruffled shoulders.

1. LOFT Ruffle Shoulder Knit Top, $49.50
2. Nasty Gal Fresh Cut Top, $48
3. ASOS Layer T-Shirt, $35.86
4. Sparkle & Fade Cutout Detail Sweatshirt, $49 at Urban Outfitters

Lace: Lace popped up as a trend in fall 2010, and it’s still going strong! Pick summery, lighter pieces that will take you through the hotter season.

1. Modcloth Hello Doily Top, $67.99
2. Limited Lace Pencil Skirt, $69.90
3. Varga Love In Lace Dress, $36
4. LOFT Lace Tee, $79.50

YOUR TURN: What trends are you most excited for this spring? What pieces will you be adding to your spring wardrobe this year?

[This is a guest post for Shecky's.com. You can see the post on their website here.]

Today's Everyday Fashion: It's a Jungle Out There

You know those days at the office that feel like a crazy, messy jungle? Well, I suggest dressing quite literally for the occasion in an army jacket and camo. Show 'em you mean war. ;-) Okay maybe that's taking a bit far, but I do feel ready to take on the world (office) in this outfit!

Why this works: This outfit follows the general rule "volume on top, slim on bottom." The pencil skirt balances out the jacket in both shape and in style (jacket is masculine, skirt is feminine). The opposite also works: a skirt with volume works with a slim shirt, and masculine bottoms work well with a feminine, ruffled top!

Occasion: Work
Inspiration photo: LOFT mannequin (I snapped the photo with my phone)
Jacket: Gap, $25
Shirt: Banana Republic, $18
Belt: American Eagle, $5
Skirt: Limited, $50
Shoes: H&M
Earrings: Forever 21, $8
Watch: Michael Kors, Christmas present

Today's Everyday Fashion: The Pink Skirt

I am loving my new pink skirt! It was one of my easiest purchasing decisions, I knew right away this lovely was coming home with me. ;-) I have lots of pairings in mind, but when I saw this picture from Gossip Girl, I decided to give a printed shirt a try first. I like how the neutrals tone down the pink - this could easily be one of my favorite office looks!

Styling tip: Can't decide what to pair with a print? Focus on one color from the print, and pair it with another a piece that will make that color pop. This pink skirt brings out the color in this shirt. Pairing it with a colorful cardigan also does the same trick!

Occasion: Work
Inspiration photo: Gossip Girl, submitted by a fan
Shirt: TJ Maxx, $15
Skirt: Limited, $35
Belt: H&M, $20
Shoes: Restricted/Endless.com, $39
Cardigan (left): Banana Republic, $30
Earrings: Forever 21, $8
Watch: Michael Kors, Christmas present

Today's Everyday Fashion: The Soccer Fan

My day consisted of three parts: church, soccer game and a family BBQ.  To find something that worked for all three I focused on the hardest occasion to dress for first. A sleeveless dress seemed like the best solution for the soccer game, since it was too warm for jeans and shorts aren't good for church. So I started there, then dressed up the dress for church with a cardigan and accessories!
Occasion: Church, soccer, BBQ
Cardigan: H&M, $18
Dress: Wish, won in a drawing on a blog
Belt: H&M, $20
Necklace: Forever 21, $8
Shoes: DSW/Chinese Laundry, $27

Today's Everyday Fashion: My New Obsession!

I'm so excited to share my new obsession with you guys: a website called MJRSales.com. It's packed full of brand-name clothes, most under $15. You can think of it as shopping at a TJ Maxx-type-store online! It almost seems too good to be true, so thankfully the folks at MJR let me try it out so I could share my experience with you guys.

What I got (left to right, below):
1. Moda short sleeve tunic top, $11.60
2. Famous Catalog embellished front bikini top, $13.60
3. Moda v-neck tank dress, $11.99
4. Famous Catalog open shoulder tunic top, $13.83
5. Famous Catalog open shoulder tunic top, $13.83

Here are my tips for shopping MJRSales.com:
- It works like eBay. Each listing is for ONE, single item. If they have more than one (and in other sizes), then they will be listed separately.
- Read each description carefully - some items may have smudges or small stains, but they do a great job of providing all the info so you won't be surprised when you receive it! In general I think they "under promise, over deliver" because I've always been pleasantly surprised and/or unable to even find the marks they were referring to. Items have always been better than I expected.
- There are thousands of listings, which can be overwhelming. Use the menu on the left to narrow things down. For starters, you will want to select the "Size Type" - either Regular or Plus, which will usually narrow your search by half. I also prefer to view things by category - so I will select "tops & blouses" then "Regular" (under Size Type), which narrows the search to only 10 or so pages. To view shoes, I select only the size(s) that I wear. Keep in mind that you can select as many sizes as you would like at one time. (Wait for it to load, then select another size.)
- The best stuff sells out within a day or two, so be sure to check the "New Arrivals" section regularly! That is definitely where I find the best deals.
- Some items are "pre-owned," but that usually just means that someone ordered the item, then returned it.
- Famous Catalog = Victoria's Secret and Famous Mall Brand = Express, they just can't say that. :-)
- When it says without tags, it means price tags but also usually part of the tag inside the shirt has also been cut-out.
- Shipping is usually $2 per item, so consider that when making decisions.
- Read the return policy. MJR charges a re-stocking fee for items, and in most cases you will also have to pay for return shipping. Choose wisely and only order items you are sure you want to keep.

Check out how I wore some of my new stuff in Miami this weekend! Left: my roadtrip outfit. Right: hanging out on South Beach!

Miami Fashion Week

Occasion: Miami Fashion Week
Dress: c/o Varga, $44
Shoes: Steve Madden/Ross, $20
Belt: Express
Necklace: JcPenney, $20

I'm not going to candy-coat it for you guys: Miami Fashion Week was kind of a mess. Between traffic, a poorly managed guest list, and trying to organize a camera crew, it was one of the most frantic experiences I've ever had. But let's focus on the positive here!! It was fun to visit Miami and my BFF from 4th grade Sarah. I loved interviewing designers and buyers to hear their unique perspectives. And I got to wear a gorgeous hot pink dress from Varga. I never get tired of getting dressed up and being girlie so that was probably my favorite part of the whole night!! Be sure to check out my hot pink number (it's only $44) on their website + tons of other cute dresses appropriate for Miami Fashion Week and beyond!

ps. A video of the runway and my interviews will be posted in about a week! Stay tuned. ;-)

Model walking the runway

Interviewing a jewelry design duo who are also sisters

Interviewing a buyer

Interviewing a haute couture designer and his daughter

The haute couture designer's daughter was the inspiration for his collection!

My BFF from 4th grade lives in Miami & joined in the fun

Today's Everyday Fashion: Reader Request

A fan submitted this photo on Facebook for me to re-create. I immediately jumped at the chance because it's totally my style! I may be wearing jeans, but the jacket/v-neck/collared shirt feels professional and perfectly preppy for a casual Friday at work. Do you have a look you'd like me to re-create? Or want to share a look that you've re-created? Feel free to post your pictures to my Facebook page!

Occasion: Casual Friday
Inspiration photo: Le Chateau
Jacket: Banana Republic, $35
Navy sweater: Gap (really old)
Shirt: Abercrombie, $20
Jeans: Hudson/Filene's Basement, $70
Belt: H&M, $20
Shoes: Restricted/Endless.com, $39
Watch: Michael Kors, Christmas present
Earrings: Forever 21, $8

Today's Everyday Fashion: Like a Lady

I'm headed south today for Miami Fashion Week! Be sure to follow to follow me on Twitter @jevrydayfashion for updates and pictures! (If you don't have Twitter, pictures of what I'm wearing will be up on Saturday.) Now for today's outfit...

Why this works: I love a super-feminine look and this outfit is an example of how to rock it at the office. The suit skirt is professional, but the pink cardigan and polka dots say "I have a soft side."How do you balance looking professional and feminine at work?

Occasion: Work
Inspiration photo: Bloomingdale's
Cardigan: New York and Company, $20
Shirt: LOFT, $20
Necklace: LOFT, $15
Skirt: Express (really old)
Shoes: Steve Madden/Ross, $20

Today's Everyday Fashion: True Blue

Don't tell the other colors in the color wheel, but if I had to choose a favorite it would be blue. Maybe it's my obsession with the ocean as a kid, or maybe it's the fact that there are just so many beautiful shades of it, but blue really is hands down the best color. ;-)

Why this works: I love outfits that use various shades of the same color. Here I'm wearing three shades of blue (my skirt is navy), but you can easily try this with other colors in your closet like different shades of green, pink, or neutrals like beige. Give it a try and let me know what you think!

Inspiration photo: J.Crew
Occasion: Work
Sweater: Express (really old)
Shirt: Express (really old)
Skirt: Limited, $25
Belt: Limited, $20
Shoes: BCBG/Ross, $23
Earrings: Forever 21, $8

Today's Everyday Fashion: The Slacker

Today's title has two meanings: 1. I've been a real slacker lately about taking outfit photos so please excuse my insane hair and the fact that I've worn these pants way too much this week. 2. This outfit is so easy, even a fashion slacker can do it! (I'm looking at you, moms with absolutely no time to devote to getting dressed!)

Why this works: This look is a recipe for looking chic while being a total bum. Start with some skinny cargos, then balance them out with a loose-fitting top (if your cargos are loose, do the opposite and pair them with a tighter shirt). Add a colorful scarf for interest and some nude booties or sandals. Voila! You look chic but feel like you are wearing pajamas. That's a win-win in my book. :-)

Inspiration photo: Banana Republic.com
Shirt: Gap, $15
Cargos: TJ Maxx, $18
Scarf: Banana Republic, $30
Shoes: Chinese Laundry/Piperlime, $34

My February Budget

There's so much that goes into creating a well-rounded closet that I could literally fill up a book (<-- I'm working on one of those right now). I thought I'd at least show you how I used my budget this month and how I made decisions on what to buy. This post does come with one disclaimer though: I am quite finicky, so it's possible that I might return something! ;-) For now, here is what February looks like for me: 

Overall: I have spring fever and color was on my mind! I also allocated a big chunk of my budget to bottoms. I never feel like I have enough, so that's an area of my closet I wanted to work on. 

Top Row: It's rare to see pencil skirts in unique colors like these, so I immediately jumped at the chance to buy these two. Bottoms were also a high priority this month, which is why I spent almost half my budget on these two items alone. 

Middle Row: Accessories are my weakness. I have plenty of belts and jewelry but I just couldn't pass up these unique, colorful extras and their amazing prices! 

Bottom Row: A mixture of tops for many occasions. The cardigan and silky shirts will work for professional and casual situations alike, and the neon pink t-shirt is perfect for summer errands.

1. LOFT aqua pencil skirt, $55
2. Limited magenta pencil skirt, $35
3. Gap pink belt, $10
4. Forever 21 turquoise necklace, $8
5. Charlotte Russe green necklace, $9
6. American Eagle blue belt, $15
7. H&M blue cardigan, $18
8. Gap olive shirt, $10
9. LOFT coral/camel shirt, $20
10. American Eagle neon t-shirt, $12                 = Grand Total, $192

Note: prices differ online because I bought all of these items in the store (where they are usually cheaper). I also shopped during President’s Day weekend while many stores were having promotions.

Today's Everyday Fashion: Should I Keep this Blazer?

After several attempts to style this pink blazer, I think the writing is on the wall: it's just not that flattering on me (H&M, $35). I love the color, but I think the shape adds unnecessary bulk to my frame. What do you guys think though - should I return this blazer to H&M?

Today's Everyday Fashion: The Visitors

Another day, another night we have friends in town. I swear, Orlando is THE place to live if you want to see your faraway friends because they will always come to visit! :-) Last night we headed to Downtown Disney to hang out with friends who were in town. It's still pretty warm, but I packed a jacket just in case. The place was packed, and we had dinner at the House of Blues, then walked around and looked at some of the shops. I love that you can have a slice of the Disney experience without paying to go to the parks!

Why this works: The lace top is super-girlie and a tad dressy so I purposely picked "rough" pieces to pair it with. Worn-in jeans, an army jacket and sandals resembling work boots did just the trick! :-)

Occasion: Downtown Disney
Jacket (left): Gap, $22
Shirt: Charlotte Russe, $20
Jeans: American Eagle, $33
Shoes: Aldo, $50
Necklaces: LOFT $15, c/o Stella & Dot
Purse: Juicy Couture/Neiman Marcus Last Call, $115
Watch: Michael Kors, Christmas present
Bracelets: Banana Republic, $10-15

Special Occasion Dresses for Spring

One of the questions I get the most is - what should I wear to a wedding? This spring, I found a hidden gem to help you answer just that: David's Bridal prom dresses! Affordable, gorgeous and the best part - they are giving one away. (To enter the drawing, click here.) These are some of my favorite wedding-appropriate styles from their collection. You can check out the entire collection here and tell me - which one is your favorite?

1. Short Pleated Satin Strapless Dress Style F14212, $129.00
2. Long Chiffon Strapless Dress with Beaded Bodice Style 54602, $129.00

3. Strapless Lace Dress with Floral Embellishment Style F14166, $149.00

4. Strapless Tulle Dress with Caviar Beading Style INT3143, $139.00

5. Strapless Stretch Satin Leopard Print Dress Style 40225, $59.99

6. Short Stretch Taffeta with Rosettes Style MD1062, $59.99  

7. Flower One Shoulder Mesh Gown Style 8420Y033, $99.00

8. Pearl Jeweled Necklace Halter Mesh Gown Style 8420Y039, $99.00

 

And for more stores I recommend for special occasion dresses check out my shopping guide!

Today's Everyday Fashion: The Happiest Place on Earth

I dig his outfit

Occasion: First trip ever to Magic Kingdom!
Shirt: Forever 21, $19
Shorts: Abercrombie, $50
Belt: H&M, $20
Shoes: Rainbow, $40
Necklace: Banana Republic, $20
1st Time Visitor Button: c/o Disney!! ;-)

 Why this works: When visiting an amusement park or outdoor festival where you will be on your feet all day, the first priority is comfort. Consider the weather, plus what you'll actually be doing. It was hot (85 during the day), but a sundress isn't functional getting in and out of rides. I went with shorts, added a comfy shirt that would also keep me cool and some accessories to complete the outfit. Shoes are also hugely important. It was too hot for socks and sneakers, and I'm most comfortable in flip-flops so although they weren't the cutest part of my outfit they did the trick! What are your tips/ what do you wear at an amusement park?

Pinocchio loves the ladies

Feeling the magic

Gorgeous!

My favorite ride: Space Mountain

I love Disney at night

About our day: at the risk of sounding like a curmudgeon, I've never been all that psyched about visiting Disney. As a child, I had my sights set on visiting SeaWorld, and I've never been that into Disney characters or movies. As a lover of thrill rides, I also didn't really understand what you did at Disney? Just walk around and look at characters? Aren't the rides just for little kids? BUT after living in Orlando for 1.5 years, having friends in town was the excuse I needed to go see what all the fuss is about. And... I loved it. I would still rather visit Six Flags for the thrill rides, but now I understand that comparing the two is really apples to oranges. Disney rides are about the thrill of sight, and Six Flags rides are about the thrill of adrenaline. There is a time for both, just like some days you might want to go to a museum (Disney) and some days you want to go for a hike (Six Flags). Consider me the newest Disney convert! ;-)

Today's Everyday Fashion: The Staycation

Yesterday was day #1 of my Orlando staycation. I have friends in town and we had planned to hang out Friday/Saturday but... a flight got screwed up and it wound up being Thursday/Friday. Our first night was spent hanging out on Park Ave (a street full of cute restaurants, shops and bars). Since it was in the mid-80's I dressed light and broke out my new shoes. (I've had them since before Christmas but haven't worn them yet!)

Today we are headed to Disney - my first time EVER and I am sooo excited! I've never been anxious to go, but now that we are going I'm super-duper looking forward to it. I'll do a "Flashback Friday" post this weekend, but excuse me while I unplug from the internet today and tap into my inner child at the happiest place on earth! ;-)

Inspiration photo: Zara.com
Occasion: Dinner and drinks
Shirt: Forever 21, $18
Pants: TJ Maxx, $18
Necklace: H&M, $10
Shoes: Aldo, $50
Cardigan: Banana Republic, $14
Purse: Juicy Couture/Neiman Marcus Last Call, $115
Watch: Michael Kors, Christmas present
Bracelets: Forever 21, $8

Today's Everyday Fashion: Black and Brown

This shirt is black and off-white, so my first instinct was to pair it with black like I did in this outfit. But then I saw the left photo on Anthropologie.com and realized that it would also look great with browns and greens! Mixing black and brown is one of my favorite color combos when done right. My styling secret: Pair black with a yellow-toned browns (like my cognac shoes and belt) for a winning look. What doesn't work? Chocolate brown and black. Just don't do it. :-) 

Inspiration photo: Anthropologie.com
Cardigan: H&M, $18
Shirt: TJ Maxx, $15
Belt: H&M, $20
Cargos: Santuary Surplus/Nordstrom Rack, $40
Shoes: Restricted/Endless.com, $39
Necklace: c/o Designs by Mandi, $14
Bracelets: Forever 21, $8

Today's Everyday Fashion: Feels Like Home

Something about this outfit reminds me of home. I grew up in a brome field in Kansas surrounded by cows and while I may have thought it was lame as a teenager, I now get all gooey inside when I think about it. I can't put my finger on exactly why this outfit reminds me of home. Maybe because it has just a hint of country? Or maybe these colors remind me my American Indian heritage? Either way, I feel very much like myself in this outfit, and that my friends, is the best kind of outfit of all. :-) 

Why this works: Turquoise and camel are an amazing color combination, don't be afraid to try it at home! The left outfit is perfect for casual occasions, while the right look could be a colorful ensemble for work.

Shirt: Banana Republic, $20 (really old)
Skirt: J.Crew, $45
Belt: H&M, $20
Necklace: c/o Stella & Dot
Boots (left): Bakers, $95
Shoes (right): Restricted/Endless.com, $39

Here's a closer look at today's necklace just as an FYI (I don't think it's available for purchase anymore, but it's hard to see in the pictures above):