Today's Everyday Fashion: Office Barbie

Is it possible to look professional and still be feminine and sexy at the office? I think this picture says it all. We've got brunette Barbie on the left, and blond Barbie on the right. :-)

Styling tip: Don't wait for a special occasion to wear red shoes, and don't only wear them with black and white. Give them a try them with pinks and purples - the colors right next to red on the color wheel!

Occasion: Work
Inspiration photo: J.Crew
Trench coat: New York & Company, $50
Shirt: Limited, really old
Skirt: Limited, $35 (recent)
Shoes: Delicious/Shoe Carnival, $10
Earrings: Forever 21, $8
Watch: Michael Kors, Christmas present

Today's Everyday Fashion: Secrets of Shopping at Forever 21

We established how much I love rainbows last week, so there's no need for me to explain why I had to have this Forever 21 dress! :-) You guys also know that I am a frequent Forever 21 shopper, but it can be an overwhelming and frustrating store to shop at, so I though I'd share my tips and secrets for finding the best deals!

1. Shop online first. Shopping at a Forever 21 store can be soooo overwhelming. Shopping online can be frustrating because items don't always fit like the picture. Do what I do: shop online, then head to the store to check things out in person. This will help you navigate your way through the store and find things you like, but it will also help you avoid buying a bunch of stuff that doesn't look great in person.
2. Check new arrivals daily. The other frustrating thing about Forever 21 is that items sell out really fast. To find the best items, check new arrivals daily. The really good stuff only lasts for an average of 2 days.
3. Check online quantities. Want to make an online purchase, but need more time to make a decision? You can check how many are left in stock by adding 20 (the maximum quantity) to your bag. If it says out of stock, then there are less than 20 remaining and so I wouldn't wait much longer to order. You can also see the exact number that are in stock by selecting quantities until it no longer says "out of stock."
4. Return whenever you want. Forever 21 does not offer refunds (they only give you store credit). They also don't take returns after 21 days. But what you might not know is that you can get around store policy by EXCHANGING (not returning) an item whenever you want as long as the tag is still attached. (one exception: jewelry is final sale) This is NOT the official return policy!! But if it's 6 months later and the tags are attached - take it to the store and make an exchange without the receipt, I've done it many times!
Update 5/16/12 - While I personally haven't shopped much at Forever 21 over the past year, I have heard numerous reports from readers that their return policy has changed. This little exchange trick I used to do was never the official policy, however, it sounds like they are cracking down now and this trick has not been working lately. 
5. Check for quality. Forever 21 offers shirts and dresses that are 100% silk for under $35. These higher-quality items have a special tag that specifies 100% silk and are the ones to go for, since other stores charge at least $80 for a silk tank top!
6. Compare prices. Don't fall victim to the mentality that just because you are in Forever 21, all of the prices are great. They seriously overcharge on some items - so take a second and think about the item you are purchasing to make sure it's worth what they are asking.

Occasion: Lunch date, shooting promos for my upcoming show on Izon Orlando!
Dress: Forever 21, $20
Cardigan: Gap, $18
Belt: Gap, $40
Shoes: Guess/DSW, $20
Earrings: Banana Republic, $15

J's Wedding Dress Picks

Frothy

My friend Stafford recently got engaged (yay!) and asked for some help finding a dress. I immediately went to Priscilla of Boston, which is my favorite bridal line and I also love that the website shows you the price of the dress + a video of a model walking in it. As I selected dresses to show her, I noticed some trends:

1. Frothy
I'm loving all the super-feminine, whispy details of these dresses! (above) If I was getting married today, I would totally rock this style, but I'm guessing these will be a little too "sweet" for my friend Stafford.

Unique necklines

2.  Unique necklines
Stafford specified that she doesn't want strapless, which is a good thing because so many dresses now are featuring straps! Check out the unique necklines on these awesome dresses.

Pockets

3. Pockets
Even without the pockets, these dresses are gorgeous, but the pockets do add a certain chicness, no? Overall, these were my #1 pick for Stafford based on body type and her preferences. I think the second one has her name written all over it!

Congrats Stafford! I'm so honored to be a part of your big day in November! Now we just need to work on finding cute bridesmaid dresses. ;-)

Today's Everyday Fashion: The Weary Traveler

I had a very full day yesterday. I had lunch with a couple girlfriends, headed to Izon Orlando to edit my Miami Fashion Week video (will be posted next soon, I'm so excited to share it with you guys!), then visited my friends at OPP for a clothing swap they hosted (I was too tired to shop at that point, so went home empty-handed). I also squeezed in a stop at TJ Maxx. *whew* Because it was hot, I subbed in black shorts and folded up the sleeves of my new cardigan (don't you love the pea green color!) but essentially this is what I wore! What is your go-to outfit for a full day of errands? (I usually wear gladiator flats but I gotta say I'm loving how comfy these wedges are!)

Occasion: Lunch with friend, video editing, clothing swap
Inspiration photo: Madewell.com
Cardigan: LOFT, $20
Shirt: TJ Maxx, $13
Necklace: H&M, $8
Jeans: Gap, $35
Shoes: Guess/DSW, $20
Watch: Michael Kors, Christmas present
Bracelets: Forever 21, $8

Flashback Friday: Utility Belt

[Click the photo to view it larger.] This is one of my favorite belts (Banana Republic, $30), and yesterday's outfit made me curious to see what other ways I've worn it! Florals are a recurring theme, as is the color olive. I also tend to pair this belt with the same H&M sandals because the colors go together, but I also recommend branching out and trying a lighter brown shoe with belts like this.

Styling tips: Use an elastic belt to cinch in a loose dress (like I did in outfit #3) or to keep a cardigan in place (like outfit #4). Also - I've seen this belt at tons of stores over the past few months including LOFT and Limited, but Banana Republic has an identical belt in stores right now!

Which look is your favorite?

Win a Stella & Dot Necklace! [now closed]

You guys know how much I love Stella & Dot necklaces, so I'm excited to be giving one away to a lucky reader from Stylist Tara Anderson! Up for grabs is your choice of the Audrey, Chloe, Bridgette or Charlize pictured above. (I have the Charlize myself, and it's sold out so this is your ONLY way to get this necklace!) To browse the whole collection click here. To enter the giveaway follow these 3 easy steps:

1. Become a fan of Tara's Facebook page

2. Become a fan of J's Facebook page (if you haven't already)

3. Leave a comment below and let us know which necklace you like best!

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

We have a winner! Congrats to Lisa!!

Today's Everyday Fashion: Military Florals

I'm noticing a trend: I like to mix military and floral trends (like I did here last week) so I'm dubbing a new term - military florals. Or should I call it "milorals" or "flilitary"? haha! In other news, this is also a sneaky way to wear green to the office on St. Patrick's Day. :-)

Styling tip: Take a page from my book and mix some military and florals this week! Don't have a floral skirt? Try a pair of military cargos or skirt with a floral top, or a military jacket with floral underneath.

Tell me: what are you guys wearing for St. Patty's Day today?! Feel free to share a picture to the Facebook page!

Occasion: Work
Inspiration photo: LOFT
Shirt: Gap, $10
Belt: Banana Republic, $30
Skirt: J.Crew, $48
Shoes: H&M, $30
Watch: Michael Kors, Christmas present
Bracelets: Forever 21, $8
Earrings: Banana Republic, $10

Today's Everyday Fashion: Runway to Reality

Runway looks are not easy to re-create. They are often meant for one thing and one thing only: the runway, which means turning them into a real-life clothing situation can be a long shot. But I fell head-over-heels in love with this Rachel Roy look and knew I had to give it a try! This navy-turquoise-camel/orange could be one of my favorite color combos yet (thanks Rachel!) and I love that it's work-appropriate to boot. Do you follow any runway designers or high-end fashion? If so, who are your favorite designers?

Occasion: Work
Inspiration photo: Rachel Roy/FabSugar.com
Cardigan: Gap, $18
Shirt: Express, really old
Navy skirt: Limited, $25
Shoes: Restricted/Endless.com, $39
Watch: Michael Kors, Christmas present
Bracelets: Forever 21, $8
Earrings: Forever 21, $8

ps. Look who's in the April issue of InStyle magazine! (page 72)

Today's Everyday Fashion: A Shoe Miracle

Friends, I experienced a shoe miracle this weekend. I have been obsessing over finding the *perfect* pair of cognac wedge sandals for spring/summer. I wanted to spend less than $40, and I wanted the heel to be around 3 inches so that I could wear them all day long and still be comfortable. I scoured the internet but couldn't find the right pair, so I decided to make a trip to DSW on Sunday. And there they were... with a halo around them (j/k), a pair of Guess wedges in my size, and get this, with coupons they were only $20!!! I have enormous feet so between the fact that I found a wedge that actually makes my feet look smaller, and the fact that they were only $20, can only mean one thing. A shoe miracle!! Have you ever experienced a shoe miracle? What's your must-have shoe this spring?

Occasion: Work
Inspiration photo: Refinery29.com
Cardigan: Banana Republic, $14
Shirt: H&M, $15
Pants: Banana Republic, $14
Necklace: Banana Republic, $15
Belt: Gap, $10
Shoes: Guess/DSW, $20 (The DSW price before coupons was $50. The style name is WGCYDNEY, but a Google search didn't bring up anything.)

Today's Everyday Fashion: The Rainbow Connection

I have a serious crush on rainbows. Always have, always will. This crush could easily be blamed on the fact that I'm obsessed with colors. Seeing them all together makes me happy! Let's not leave anyone out! All colors are welcome on my shirt! :-) I loved the plethora of colors on today's shirt, so I immediately had to have it (even though it was the dead of winter when I spotted it). I also love the model's shirt. How do you feel about rainbow colored clothing - yay or nay?

Inspiration photo: Bluefly.com
Jacket: Kansas boutique (really old)
Shirt: Nordstrom Rack, $15
Necklace: c/o Stella & Dot
Jeans: Gap, $33
Shoes: Restricted/Endless.com, $39
Watch: Michael Kors, Christmas present
Bracelets: Forever 21, $8

A Review of Target's Designer Collective

Target's Designer Collective launched today, so I headed to my local Target to check it out. (To shop online click here.) What is the Designer Collective? Essentially, Target brought back 34 dresses from past designer collaborations and they are selling them together. Some were good, and some were not so good. Here's my take:

1. Zac Posen polka-dot print dress, $39.99
I wear a size 2 at stores like Gap, Express, etc. I needed a size 7 in this dress. I was impressed with the quality, but felt a little bit too much like a 50's waitress to purchase it.
2. Libertine striped tunic, $24.99
I was excited to try this one on, and I was planning to buy it. I hated the bubble-sleeves though (I wish it was more of a loose T-shirt fit), and like many dresses it was too short on me. (I'm 5'7" and tried on the size S.)
3. Thakon gathered dress in cyber floral, $39.99
This print was adorable, but the fit was awful. Looks cute in the picture, but there was literally enough material to make 3 more dresses out of it, and I tried on the size XS. I also thought the price was too high. I will opt for a cute print sundress at Forever 21 for half the price!
4. Tucker ruffle-back dress, $39.99
I was surprised at how much I loved this one. I'm wearing it backwards in the photo (looked better that way!), and the only thing keeping me from buying was how short it was. :-( I tried on a size S.
5. Rodarte lace-print dress, $39.99
This dress gets my vote for being the highest quality material out of the whole collection. It was gorgeous in person, and the size S fit perfect.
6. Rodarte slip dress in peach, $44.99
I also loved this dress. The S fit great and I felt like a princess. Not sure where I would wear such a whimsical dress though so I decided against it.

Dresses that were not-great quality in person:
- Tracy Feith strappy dress in white
- Jonathan Saunders colorblock dress (it was stiff, itchy cotton)

Dresses that were awesome quality in person:
- Alice Temperley crepe dress in black
- Tucker button-front dress in floral print

Verdict: All of the dresses had at least one thing "wrong" with them, so I went home empty-handed. I also have a hard time spending that much on a dress, when I can get the same quality at Forever 21 for half the price. Tell me though - have you checked out the collection? What were your thoughts?

Today's Everyday Fashion: Spring has Sprung

Well, it happened. I wore my first summery white jeans outfit. It has been in the 80's for a couple weeks, I got a nice tan when I spent the day on South Beach last week and I just couldn't wait to bust them out (they are probably my most favorite clothing item ever). I used to wear my white jeans in the snow when I lived in Boston (with boots), but I know some people prefer to wait until after Memorial Day. What's your take - is it too soon to wear white jeans where you live?

Occasion: Facebook coaching session & lunch with a friend
Shirt: LOFT, $20
Trench: New York & Company, $50
Necklace: Forever 21, $8
Jeans: Gap, $30
Belt: H&M, $20
Shoes: Chinese Laundry/DSW, $40

Today's Everyday Fashion: Cardigan Collector

A couple nights ago I attended a women's networking event. It was a chilly night, which gave me the perfect excuse to wear my new Gap cardigan! It's the closest thing to camel I've been able to find, so of course I had to have it. :-)

Style question: How many cardigans do you own? A fan recently asked me, so I counted and I have 15 (make that 16 with the purchase of this one!). Is that unusually high (am I a "cardigan collector")? Or is that less than you would have guessed?

Occasion: Women's networking event
Inspiration photo: Ann Taylor
Cardigan: Gap, $18 ("winter ochre," price is lower in stores)
Shirt: Arden B, really old
Jeans: Gap, $15
Belt: H&M, $20
Necklaces: Banana Republic $18 and $13
Shoes: Restricted/Endless.com, $39
Bracelets: Banana Republic, $10-15

Flashback Friday: Skinny Cargos

[Click the photo to make it larger] Check it out ladies... 17 ways to wear skinny cargo pants!! To be fair, these are actually two different pants. One is light khaki (top row) and the other is dark green (bottom row), but no matter what shade your cargos may be, any of these color combinations should work!

Styling tips: Shoes in all shapes and sizes work with these pants. Flat boots, lace-up boots, round pumps, pointy pumps, tie-up wedges. In colors like soft gray, cognac, black, dark brown, nude, and mustard yellow.  Clearly the options are endless. :-)

Which one (or two or three) are your favorite?

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