Today's Everyday Fashion: Blogger Dinner






































Anyone who knows me knows that I love meeting people, and I love to network. That's why I often organize blogger meet-ups in Orlando! Thursday night about 10 ladies and I met up for dinner and this is what I wore. (If you are a lady blogger in Orlando and want to join us, please shoot me an email!)

Styling tip: If you have a shirt you love, but it's too long on you, you can try "fixing" it like I did here. This top is gorgeous in person (may just be my favorite top of all time), but it comes down to my knees only in the front. After about 4 tries I came up with a belt trick to make it work! I belted it around my waist, and then pulled the material up to create a little pouf. The fabric is really sheer so it didn't add too much bulk, and it kept me from looking silly with a shirt down to my knees!

Occasion: Blogger dinner
Shirt: c/o Saivana
Jeans: Gap, $35
Belt: Limited, $10
Shoes: Chinese Laundry/Piperlime, $34
Earrings: Banana Republic, $15
Watch: Michael Kors, family gift
Gold bracelets: Forever 21, $8
Colorful bracelet: Stella & Dot, won in a raffle

Today's Everyday Fashion: Party Like a Rockstar






























Partying like a rockstar tonight? How about a dress that's super-sexy and yet as comfy as pajamas? I rest my case. :-)  I love the "slouchy" style of this dress (and all the clothes by Lamixx, an independent designer on Etsy). I've got plans to also pair this dress with brown and turquoise this summer and if I ever get pregnant I figure this could be one adorable maternity shirt. I am headed out tonight with the girls (karaoke might be in my future) - so tell me:  

Would you rock Nicky Hilton's/my look for a night out? What's your typical going out attire?

Occasion: Partying like a rockstar
Inspiration photo: FabSugar.com
Dress: c/o Lamixx, $35 (I'm wearing a size M)
Faux leather jacket (left): Forever 21, $40
Clutch: Urban Outfitters, $30
Necklace: LOFT, $20
Shoes: Carlos Santana/DSW, $33

Flashback Friday: Black and Brown




























[click the photo to view it larger] I'm switching it up this week for Flashback Friday! Instead of showing you one item multiple ways, I'm showing you how I wore black and brown together 14 different ways! Some styling tips: 

- The key to mixing black and brown is using a brown tone that is light and has a gold undertone. Chocolate brown is not enough of a contrast, but cognac works well.
- Animal prints such as leopard naturally contain both black and brown and can be an easy starting point for mixing the two colors in an outfit.
- If you are wearing black bottoms, try adding a brown belt and shoes like I did with many of the looks above. It's an easy switch that makes a huge difference!

Do you wear black and brown together? Which look is your favorite?

Today's Everyday Fashion: The Mascot






































I'm declaring this outfit the "mascot" for J's Everyday Fashion. Why? Because it's the same color blue and it's zebra print, just like I use in my blog header! <--- I'm probably a nerd for noticing this, but this is how my brain works. :-)

Styling tips: I love how the blue belt really makes this outfit. If you are already wearing belts, take it up a notch and try a colorful belt for fun! Bright colors look great with black and white neutrals like these.

Inspiration photo: Nordstrom
Dress: Moda, c/o MJR Sales.com, $27 (check out the MJR Sales $50 giveaway in the next blog post!)
Cardigan: H&M, $18
Belt: American Eagle, $15
Shoes: Steve Madden/Ross, $20
Earrings: Urban Outfitters, $5

Win a $50 Gift Certificate to MJR Sales! [now closed]


You guys know how much I love MJR Sales from this post a few weeks ago! That's why I'm so excited to be giving away a $50 gift certificate to one lucky reader. MJR Sales is a website full of discounted designer clothing - it's a mix between TJ Maxx (because the clothes are brand-name) and eBay (because items are listed separately and some have small defects). You seriously can't beat their prices - $5-10 for Victoria's Secret bathing suits, $50 for leather bags, Colin Stuart shoes, and tons of amazing tank tops and for $5. With this certificate you can get a whole new summer wardrobe!

Also, shop now and receive 10% off your order with code JSFASHION10 through Sunday, 4/10.

To enter the giveaway:
1. Follow this blog via the "Follow" button in the right-hand column.
2. Become a fan of the MJR Sales Facebook page
2. Visit MJR Sales.com and leave a comment below with an item you'd like to buy!

Winner will be chosen on Monday at noon. Good luck!



We have a winner... congrats to Shawnna!


Today's Everyday Fashion: Flower Child






































I love a floral tops. 1. When you're in a hurry, you can just throw one on with jeans and instantly look cute! 2. When the weather is rainy and yucky, it cheers up your day. Yesterday was both of these things. I was in a hurry (when am I ever not?), rushing to get to some meetings in the rain. I started with this floral shirt and decided to go 70's flower child and pair it with some flared jeans. Voila - instant outfit! :-)

Styling tip: This shirt has a shirred waistband and is already cinched at the waist. I added a belt over it purely for decoration/to dress it up a bit! Also, I'm a huge fan of using a beige cami underneath shirts instead of one that is stark white. This creme-colored is not as dark as my skin color but is also not as contrasting as white, which can make a huge difference in an outfit.

Occasion: Meetings
Shirt: c/o The Unique Closet, $34
Tank: Express, really old
Jeans: Gap, $14
Belt: H&M, $20
Shoes: Chinese Laundry/DSW, $40
Necklace: Banana Republic, $20
Charm: c/o Stella & Dot, $19
Watch: Michael Kors, family gift
Bracelets: Forever 21, $8

6 Ways to Wear Spring Scarves


Scarves are the ultimate accessory. You can fold them, tie them and wear them however you want! The possibilities are endless, so there’s no reason to let them sit in your closet. Here are six fresh ways to wear scarves for spring!

[This is a guest post for Shecky's. To see this article on their website click here.]






































Scarf as a belt: Some outfits don’t look quite right with a scarf around the neck, but that doesn’t mean you can’t use one to add a pop of color to your outfit. Loop a thin scarf through the belt loops of your skirt or pants, and the compliments are sure to start rolling in.

Scarf: Banana Republic, $3
Blazer: Gap, $70
Shirt: Express
Skirt: Banana Republic, $40
Shoes: Banana Republic, $50

Just like J:
1. Ann Taylor LOFT Diamond Mosaic Skinny Scarf, $29.50
2. The Vintage Scarf Vintage Multi Purple Sheer Long Neck Scarf, $14.99






































Scarf Under Your Belt: This scarf trick works best on top of a simple foundation, such as a solid colored dress or a monochromatic shirt and skirt. The scarf adds dimension, interest and a pop of color to your outfit, and the belt keeps it all in place. It’s a match made in heaven.

Shirt: Banana Republic, $35
Skirt: Banana Republic, $35
Scarf: Banana Republic, $30
Belt: Gap, $10
Shoes: DSW/Chinese Laundry, $40
Necklace: Banana Republic

Just Like J:
1. Old Navy Women’s Abstract-Floral Jersey Scarf, $10
2. The Limited Palm Leaf Scarf,  $26.90
3. Ann Taylor LOFT Summer Watercolor Floral Scarf, $34.50






































Scarf Around the Neck: There are tons of different ways to wear a scarf around your neck, but this is the “cowgirl tie.” To get this look, simply tie the ends of the scarf at the back of your neck. Use a colorful scarf, like the one pictured here, to dress up a plain white t-shirt and pencil skirt at the office this spring.

Scarf: Gap, $10
T-shirt:
Gap, $10
Navy skirt: Limited, $25
Shoes: Chinese Laundry/DSW, $40

Just Like J:
1. Ann Taylor Modern Resist Silk Scarf, $48






































Scarf on Purse: Is the weather too hot to wear a scarf around your neck this spring? Try adding one to your look by tying it onto your purse. The scarf adds a certain chicness to any outfit and personalizes the purse.

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: The Vintage Scarf, $19.99

Just Like J:
1. The Vintage Scarf Vintage Red And Gold Lion Head Crest And Tassel Square Scarf, $21.99
2. The Vintage Scarf Vintage Bright Pink Orange And Grey Geometric Print Neck Scarf, $16.99






































Scarf as a Tie: A second way to wear a scarf around your neck is to knot it in the front. I like to refer to this as the women’s version of a necktie. Pair this version with a collared shirt, but leave out the pencil skirt to avoid being mistaken for a flight attendant. Shorts or pants and some modern heels work well instead!

Shirt: Abercrombie, $20
Scarf: The Limited
Shorts: Forever 21, $20
Belt: Gap, $10
Shoes: Piperlime/Chinese Laundry, $34

Just Like J:
1. ASOS Oasis Animal Print Scarf, $28.69
2. The Vintage Scarf New York & Company Black And White Stripe 100% Silk Long Neck Scarf, $12.99


Scarf as a Shirt: When the weather is hot, opt for a breezy scarf worn as a shirt. This look requires a bust that’s on the small side, and a strapless bra or bandeau top is recommended in case of any wardrobe malfunctions. Simply tie the scarf (tightly!) in a knot around your back for a chic cover-up at the beach or on a hot spring day.

Scarf (worn as shirt): The Vintage Scarf, $19.99
Belt: H&M, $20
Shorts: American Eagle, $25
Sandals: Bakers, $40

Just Like J:
1. The Vintage Scarf Vintage Berkshire Black Red Gold Jeweled Print Square Scarf, $21.99
2. The Vintage Scarf Vintage Cejon Accessories Red White And Blue Print Square Scarf, $14.99

GIRL TALK TIME: Will you be wearing any scarves this spring? Do you own a lot of scarves? What do you think is the coolest way to wear one?

Today's Everyday Fashion: Take Two






























This is a J's Everyday Fashion first! I've used this inspiration photo before, and I'm using it again! The first time I created a casual look (photo below), and today is a dressier look for work. Both times, I stuck to a palette of periwinkle, olive, khaki and mustard. But for this second outfit, I switched the colors around and did an olive skirt instead of an olive jacket.

Styling tip: Find a color combo that you love in your closet? Chances are you might be able to achieve a similar look with the same palette like I did here. Try switching around the colors in your favorite outfit to come up with something totally new!

Occasion: Work
Inspiration photo: J.Crew
Jacket (left): Banana Republic, $35
Shirt: Banana Republic, $35
Belt: Gap, $10
Skirt: Banana Republic, $50
Shoes: Bandolino/TJ Maxx, $25
Earrings: Urban Outfitters, $5
Watch: Michael Kors, family gift
Bracelets: Forever 21, $8

Today's Everyday Fashion: Cupcakes and Cotton Candy




































I just couldn't resist the confectionery power of this top. It reminds me of cupcakes, cotton candy, ballerinas and so many happy things. That's why when we had a "cold" streak last week, I immediately pulled this out of my closet. A friend and her husband were in town, so we met them for dinner and ice cream on Monday night. It was pouring rain, hence the curly hair, but this outfit proved to be perfectly comfy for the occasion!

Styling tips: The many layers of this shirt adds bulk to my frame, so I added a belt to help create a waist. I also kept my pants slim to balance out the volume up top.

Occasion: Double-date
Shirt: TJ Maxx, $15 (recent)
Belt: Gap, $10
Jeans: American Eagle, $33 (recent)
Shoes: Banana Republic, $22
Necklace: Banana Republic, $15
Charm: c/o Stella & Dot Tara Anderson, $19

Jewelry tip: Check out this 3-charm pack from Stella & Dot (below). The charms hook on to any existing necklace, immediately giving them a little makeover. The pack is on sale right now for $19, which is a heck of a deal since you are basically getting three (awesome) necklaces! I'll be wearing these charms often, so thought I would pass along this deal while it's still available! :-)

Today's Everyday Fashion: Earth Tones






































It's Sunday so we are headed to church + a soccer game. I've got the usual problem of figuring out how to be appropriate at church, and how to stay cool at the soccer game. I decided to go for a breezy sundress for the game (right) and a leather jacket to cover up for church (left). I'm totally digging this outfit because I love earth tones (with olive being an all-time favorite of mine) and this outfit is full of 'em!

Occasion: Church, soccer game
Dress: c/o Varga Store, $44
Belt: came with the dress
Leather jacket: Banana Republic, $150
Shoes: Guess/DSW, $20 (recent)
Necklace: c/o Stella & Dot Stylist Lori McMinn

Today's Everyday Fashion: Pretty Plaid






































I love plaid, but I can't help but envision lumberjacks when thinking about plaid, and lumberjacks aren't pretty. So what's a girl to do? I took a page out of Harper's Bazaar book (literally) and decided to make my own pretty plaid look. The leather jacket and jeans may be "rough" but the diamond necklace and pointy pumps don't get much more girlie.

Styling tips: Try adding some feminine accessories to create your own pretty plaid look!

Inspiration photo: Harper's Bazaar
Jacket: Forever 21, $40
Shirt: Forever 21, $18
Necklace: LOFT, $20
Jeans: American Eagle, $33
Shoes: Calvin Klein/Filene's Basement, $70
Watch: Michael Kors watch, family gift
Bracelets: Forever 21, $8

Flashback Friday: The Camel Skirt






































This camel skirt from J.Crew ($45) was an item I knew I wanted right away. I loved the color and texture and the comfort of an elastic waistband and pockets are hard to beat. One downfall: it can be tough to wear a ruched waistline like this. Shirts either have to be thick enough to cover the waistband entirely (look 6) or tucked in (the rest of the look). Beyond that, this skirt could not be more versatile. It can be dressed up with sequins or a blazer, and dressed down with flat boots or an oversized sweater and pretty much any color goes. Which look is your favorite?

Looking for a similar skirt? I've seen similar styles at LOFT, H&M and J.Crew recently (but no links online). Also check out these from Modcloth, ASOS.com and Express.

Win a Beaded Top from Saivana! [now closed]


















I am so in love with this gorgeous line of beaded tops by Saivana! I've seen them in person, and ladies, these pictures seriously do not do them justice! All of the tops are beaded by hand, and the quality and workmanship is clear. I am thrilled to be giving one away to a lucky reader! Simply follow the instructions below - the winner will receive their choice of Saivana blouse, color/size based on availability but similar to the ones pictured above. Everything by this designer is gorgeous so you really can't loose! Good luck! :-)

1. Become friends with the Saivana Facebook page
2. Become a fan of J's Everyday Fashion Facebook page (if you haven't already)
3. Follow Saivana on Twitter
4. Leave a comment below

We have a winner... congrats Whitney!


Today's Everyday Fashion: Neon, Neon






































I love neon. Maybe it's because I'm a child of the '80's, but I love it so much I wanted to find a way to wear it to work. The colors in this outfit remind me of the diving sticks I used in the pool as a kid = I'm in love.

Styling tips: The top half of this outfit is punchy and colorful. When making a large statement in your outfit like this, keep the rest of it simple. The choice to wear nude, super-professional shoes and neutral accessories was on purpose, to help keep the color within reason. Tell me - would you wear neon to work?

Occasion: Work
Inspiration photo: Boden USA
Cardigan: Banana Republic, $12
Shirt: Forever 21, $8
Belt: Gap, $15 (recent)
Skirt: LOFT, $55 (recent)
Earrings: Urban Outfitters, $5
Shoes: BCBG/Ross, $23
Watch: Michael Kors, gift
Bracelets: Forever 21, $8

Today's Everyday Fashion: Make It Work... For Work






































Today's look is all about dressing up your casual, basic pieces for work or another occasion where jeans aren't appropriate. At the core, this is a T-shirt and cargos, but with the shirt tucked in, and the addition of some heels, a belt and long necklace it really transforms the outfit! Make it work... for work. :-)

Styling tips: Are your pants too long for your shoes? (In other words, are your pants scrunched up around your ankles and/or won't fit over your shoes?) My favorite trick lately is to just roll them up! I've done it here with my skinny cargos, and the LOFT model also did it with her looser-fit pants. Give it a try!

Occasion: Work
Inspiration photo: Ann Taylor
Shirt: Forever 21, $18
Cargos: Sanctuary Surplus/Nordstrom Rack, $40
Necklace: LOFT, $20
Belt: Limited, $15
Shoes: Aldo, $50
Watch: Michael Kors, Christmas present

Today's Everyday Fashion: The Hunt for a Mustard Cardigan






































Let's cut to the chase. I could say a bunch of stuff about my outfit, but all you guys really want to know is where you can buy a mustard cardigan. :-) Here are some options:

1. Forever 21, $18 (this will sell out quick, so act fast!)
2. Urban Outfitters, $38 (use code THEMUSICISSUE for 10% off)
3. JcPenney, $36 
4. LA Posh Style, $29

Styling tips: Okay, now let's talk about today's outfit! If you have a bunch of black and white pieces in your closet and no color, today's look is an example of how you can pair those neutrals with new colors. A mustard cardigan is a great addition - so is a red shoe. Together they are a bit mustard and ketchup, but I happen to like the combo. :-) What colors do you use to spice up your basic black pieces?

Occasion: Work
Cardigan: H&M, $18
Shirt: Banana Republic, $35
Belt: Forever 21, $5
Skirt: Limited, $35
Shoes: Delicious/Shoe Carnival, $10
Earrings: Urban Outfitters, $5
Watch: Michael Kors, Christmas present
Bracelets: Forever 21, $8

Today's Everyday Fashion: Day to Date

































What I love most about today's look is that's transitional. Just remove the jacket and go from day to date! The first outfit with the suit jacket is perfect for work, and the bit of lace peeking out is super-stylish but still professional. The second outfit without the jacket works for a date or a night out with the girls. You could also throw on skinny jeans instead of the skirt for a totally different look! How do you transition your clothes from work to a night out?

Occasion: Day to Date
Jacket: Banana Republic, $90
Lace shirt: Charlotte Russe, $20
Belt: Gap, $10
Skirt: Banana Republic, $35
Shoes: Bandolino/TJ Maxx, $25
Watch: Micheal Kors, Christmas present
Bracelets: Forever 21, $8
Earrings: c/o Pop of Chic, $12

Today's Everyday Fashion: Maxi Dress Mania






































I've got maxi dresses on my mind this spring! I talked about them being a big trend in my Spring Shopping Guide and I've been on the hunt to add one to my collection ever since. Thanks to the folks at the Unique Closet, I got to try on a bunch for size. Here's what I found:

Dress: The Unique Closet, $42.50
Shoes: Guess/DSW, $20
Earrings: Banana Republic, $20
Details:This one has lightly padded top (which I love) and a slightly silky material. Overall this one was my favorite! I'm 5'7" and wearing 3.5 inch heels. The dress is a size Small.






































Dress: The Unique Closet, $44
Flats: Macy's, $10
Necklace: Forever 21, $8
Details: This one would be perfect for a petite woman (because it was quite short on me). I loved the colors on this dress though - and especially how it made the turquoise necklace pop. I'm 5'7" and wearing flat shoes. The dress is size Small.






































Dress: The Unique Closet, $34
Shoes: Guess/DSW, $20
Necklace: Banana Republic, $40
Details: This dress is perfect for the tall girls out there! This one has a super-comfy feel, so I dressed it up with some fancy jewels. I'm 57", wearing 3.5 inch shoes. The dress is a size Small.






































Dress: The Unique Closet, $30
Sandals: Chinese Laundry/DSW, $27
Necklace: Aldo, $20
Details: This dress could not be more perfect for a music festival! It has plenty of room for a curvy figure, and you honestly can't beat the price! I'm 5'7" and wearing flat shoes. The dress is a size Small.

Disclaimer: These are not my clothes. I simply borrowed them for this blog post. I got to keep one - I chose dress #1 and am wearing it to church and a soccer game today! :-)

Today's Everyday Fashion: Pop of Chic

Yesterday my styling skills were put to the test. Brink magazine asked me to take guys off the street and give them mini-makeovers for their upcoming issue! The fact that I've never done men's clothing only added to the excitement. :-) Overall, we had a great time and I can't wait to show you the before and after pictures. Turns out men's fashion is more fun than I thought!

Styling tips: I'm a huge fan of short-shorts, but I'm always careful to balance them out with a loose-fitting shirt with sleeves. If you prefer to show off the top-half, the same rules apply. Don't pair a tube-top with tiny shorts - wear it with jeans or a loose skirt.

Occasion: Photo shoot with Brink magazine
Shirt: c/o Varga Store, $44
Shorts: Forever 21, $20
Belt: H&M, $20
Shoes: Guess/DSW, $20
Necklace: c/o Designs by Mandi, $14
Watch: Michael Kors, Christmas present
Bracelets: Forever 21, $8
Earrings (photo below): c/o Pop of Chic, $12

Pop of Chic earrings