Today's Everyday Fashion: The Same But Different

I am all about choices lately because today I'm showing you another way you can take an idea (hot pink + black/ivory print + turquoise) and make it work in different ways! On the left we have a fun and funky look for work, and on the right we have a casual outfit that uses the same color combo, but totally flips things around. Try doing this in your own wardrobe - take a color combo you love and use it for work and play. Or use this idea when you see something you want to copy, but need to flip-flop the top and bottom to use what you already have!

ps. Thanks for all the encouragement about my hair yesterday -- you guys really are the best. I still maintain that I look like fuzzhead, so these will be the last couple pics with my au natural hair for awhile. :-)

Left
Cardigan: Express, really old
Shirt: Banana Republic, $15
Necklace: H&M, $14 (recent)
Skirt: Limited, $30
Shoes: Steve Madden at Ross, $20

Right
Shirt: TJ Maxx, $13
Shorts: Forever 21, $15
Necklace: H&M, $14 (recent)
Shoes: Macy's, $13

Today's Everyday Fashion: Multiple Choice

I totally forgot I had this shirt. Or rather, I haven't worn it in so long, it kind of faded into the back of my closet. This inspiration photo reminded me so much of it though, I had to pull it out of the back of the closet to replicate this outfit. I went with a standard re-creation in the middle photo - but on the far right I'm showing how you can use what you have to make it work. Do you have a similar shirt, but pants only in a different color? Switch it up. Fashion isn't just a one-answer, it's multiple choice!

What are some of you "make it work" moments? Which color pants do you prefer? I like the outfit in the middle, with the hair on the right. (I can't stand my hair in it's natural, wavy state!)

Inspiration photo: Ann Taylor
Shirt: Banana Republic, $45
Cargos (left): TJ Maxx, $17
Cargos (right): Nordstrom Rack, $40
Necklace: Banana Republic, $20
Belt (right): Gap, $10
Shoes (left): Chinese Laundry at DSW, $40
Shoes (right): Chinese Laundry at Piperlime, $34
Watch: Michael Kors, family gift
Bracelets: Forever 21, $8

4 Ways to Wear a Statement Necklace

Accessories are a great and inexpensive way to change up an outfit, and nothing has a more dramatic effect than a statement necklace. They first appeared in retail stores a few years ago, but their continued popularity is proof that they are here to stay! Not sure how to wear them? Here are four ideas for styling statement necklaces with what you already own.

1. With an open neckline. Open necklines such as v-necks are very flattering to many body types, but what should you do with all that empty space? Fill it up with some gorgeous jewelry, of course! A statement necklace adds texture, detail and even color to an open-neck look.

Necklace (left) Stella & Dot, $89
Necklace (center) Aldo, $20
Necklace (right) Stella & Dot, $198

Just like J:
1. Hive & Honey Wood Bead Drop Necklace, $42 at Piperlime
2. Stella & Dot Casablanca Bib Necklace, $89
3. Stella & Dot Metropolitan Mixed Necklace, $198

2. Over a collared shirt.  Do you feel boring in your collared shirts at work? Add a statement necklace around the outside of the collar to spice up your base and add sparkle and texture. You can think of it as a gorgeous necktie for girls!
Necklace (left) Stella & Dot, borrowed
Necklace (center) J.Crew, $45
Necklace (right) JCPenney, $20

Just like J:
1. Worthington Trend Stone Necklace, $14.99 at JCPenney
2. Hive & Honey Mixed Metal Knot Necklace, $25.99 at Piperlime
3. Stella & Dot Musette Necklace, $79

3. With a high neckline. High necklines like turtlenecks and bateaus make great foundations for a statement necklace. Layer one over your shirt or dress to create a fun color combo and make your necklace really pop.
Necklace (left) Stella & Dot, $198
Necklace (center) Stella & Dot, borrowed
Necklace (right) JCPenney, $9

Just like J:
1. Mixit Pearl Flower Necklace, $24.99 at JCPenney
2. Stella & Dot Charlotte Statement Necklace, $89
3. Zad Gold Tone Metal Bib Necklace, $31.99 at ShopItLA on ebay
 

4. With embellishments. It may seem like too much at first, but statement necklaces actually look great paired with other embellishments like ruffled collars or sequin tops. Give it a try today!
 Necklace (left) Banana Republic, $35
Necklace (center) Banana Republic, $30
Necklace (right) Banana Republic, $25

Just like J:
1. Mixit Shaky Motif Necklace, $24.99 at JCPenney
2. Tasha ‘Electra’ Jeweled Bib, $48 at Nordstrom

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

Today's Everyday Fashion: The Magic Trick

You might describe me as part stylist, part magician. I am always thinking of ways to re-use what I already have, but this look is a J's Everyday Fashion first because I'm wearing this sweater backwards! I'm actually not totally feeling this one - I love it from the front, but I'm not confident about the back. (And really, confidence in what you are wearing is 99% of your outfit.) That said - would you have the confidence to pull off this look? Would you ever wear a top backwards?

Inspiration photo: Coach
Occasion: Work
Sweater: Moda c/o MJR Sales, $24
Skirt: Limited, $35
Belt: American Eagle, $15
Shoes: BCBG/Ross, $21
Purse: Juicy Couture/Macy's
Short necklace: c/o Stella & Dot
Charm: c/o Stella & Dot

Free Fashion Advice + Be In an Episode of My Show!

Ever wish I could come to your closet and help you make outfits? Well, now I can! :-)  My style makeover show (also named J's Everyday Fashion) is searching for women in need of fashion help in the Orlando area! Women are encouraged to submit themselves for consideration, and those selected will receive a free closet consultation and personal shopping session from yours truly, and appear in an episode of the show. To view the pilot episode, click here.

Submissions are being accepted now. We are searching for twelve local women to be in twelve episodes being shot in Orlando from September to November. Episodes will air approximately one month after they are taped. To be considered, applicants must submit an email to everydaymakeovershow@gmail.com. Details/eligibility are as follows:

- We would love to see a video! Videos should be 30 seconds to 2 minutes long and uploaded to YouTube with the keyword "izonorlando." High production value is not important – just introduce yourself and tell us why you should receive help on our show! (Note: video entries will become the property of IzonOrlando.)
- If you do not have the technology to create a video, then feel free to just send text and photos. Please explain the areas you would like to improve in, and tell us where you usually like to shop. You do not need a super-dramatic story! This show is for real, everyday women who may or may not be stylish, they just have fashion questions and would like free style advice.
- The style seeker must live within 30 miles of downtown Orlando and be willing to let us shoot video in their home. 
- The style seeker will receive free fashion advice, closet consultation and personal shopping. They do not receive clothes, but they also are not required to buy anything.
- Women who have already received free personal shopping from me in the past are more than welcome to apply to be on the show!

About the show

Based on the hit blog J's Everyday Fashion, J and IzonOrlando have teamed up to bring you a style makeover show for the everyday woman. In each episode, J takes one woman on a journey through her closet to identify several ways she can improve what she already owns. Next, they visit local stores to shop for new pieces to complement existing items in the style seeker's closet. Finally, J develops new outfits utilizing a combination of new and old items, ultimately helping the style seeker with several areas of fashion self-improvement by the end of the show! You can view the pilot episode here. 

(If you are a member of the press and would like to receive a full press release please email me at jseverydayfashion@gmail.com.)

J's Everyday Fashion: The Sequin Skirt

I have always loved sequins. As a little girl I had my mom make me a princess costume for Halloween and it was covered in blue sequins. It still holds true for me today - I love the texture, the shine and everything about them. They say "party" to me, and who doesn't want to have a good time everyday!? Thankfully the trends agree with me, because sequins are no longer reserved for New Year's Eve and cocktail parties, they are also okay for daytime and even the workplace (depending on your dress code of course). I have always loved J.Crew's mix of military and sequins, and while it's certainly a bold statement, I would wear this to the office, or to a retail job at the mall. How about you though - would you be bold enough to wear a sequin skirt to your job or a daytime event?

Inspiration photo: J.Crew
Occasion: Work
Shirt: J.Crew, $14
Belt: Bakers, $5
Skirt: New York and Company, $25
Shoes: BCBG/Ross, $21
Necklace: c/o Stella & Dot, $55

Today's Everyday Fashion: I'm on a Boat

I had WAY too much fun yesterday. Our friends Eric & Stacy took us out on their boat to celebrate Eric's birthday. I swear it felt more like my birthday though because it was so much fun!! They live on the Gulf side of Florida, and we spent most of the day in the middle of the ocean in waist-deep perfectly clear water, hunting for sand dollars, conch shells and we even saw a small shark! We also docked and dined at an adorable restaurant for lunch - it really was the perfect day. I meant to take pictures, but when you are having that much fun - you forget! :-)

About my outfits: The first picture is what I wore for our 2-hour drive down to the Gulf. Once we got on the boat, I took off my shorts and added a hat (the cover-up is a bit short, so I wanted extra coverage with the shorts for the road trip). For the swimming parts of the day I sported my new bathing suit from Love Me Chic. I am totally in love with this bathing suit, probably one of the most flattering and comfy I have ever owned!

Occasion: Boating and swimming in the Gulf
Cover-up: TJ Maxx, $17 (this is actually a size L shirt that I converted into a cover-up)
Shorts: Abercrombie, $50
Flip flops: Rainbow, $40
Hat: TJ Maxx, $13
Swim suit: c/o Love Me Chic, $49

Win $1,000 Worth of Goodies from Global Fashion Brands! [now closed]

I'm so excited about this giveaway! One lucky reader will win all 8 of these items - totaling more than $1,000 from Global Fashion Brands! The even better news? Everyone is a winner - because with code JSBLOG you can receive between 20-25% off of more than 14 brands on their website! (when you enter the contest, you will receive coupon details via email) 

To enter the giveaway simply enter your email address in the box below to sign up for Global Fashion Brands emails:

Email

Extra credit:

1.  Share the giveaway with your friends! Post a link to this giveaway on your Facebook page and be sure to tag the Global Fashion Brands Page and J's Everyday Fashion to get credit. (in order to tag, you need to "Like" the pages first, and if the post doesn't show up on our pages you can email me a screenshot to get credit for an additional entry)

2.  Tweet about the giveaway and include the hashtag #GFBgiveaway and the link http://bit.ly/ku1G5j.

A winner will be selected at random on Sunday, June 26th. Good luck and thanks for entering!

Items in this giveaway:

1. Estala Balan skirt, $173

2. Khari dress, $108

3. Lola Paige dress, $50

4. Adolfo Sanchez leggings, $105

5. Gay Boyer pearl necklace, $175

6. Taara Jewelry gold cuff, $25

7. Free Endearment handbag, $275

8. Maleku Jewelry pearl ring, $145

We have a winner... congrats to Kristen!

Today's Everyday Fashion: California Girl

I tweeted the other day: "There is way more to life than fashion, but you also can't go through life without getting dressed." Leave the house without clothes = you will get arrested. :-) That said, we've all had those days when you are running around and need to just throw something on. My strategy is to save time by not doing my hair, putting on a trusty pair of denim shorts or jeans, and a fun t-shirt. I added these beach-y necklaces and off I went! Not the most glamorous or put-together I've ever looked, but "California-girl casual" is one of my favorite types of outfits, and definitely my go-to when I'm in a rush. What is your strategy for getting dressed quickly?

Occasion: Running errands
Shirt: H&M, $10 (recent)
Shorts: American Eagle, $25
Belt: H&M, $20
Shoes: Chinese Laundry/DSW, $27
Necklaces: American Eagle, $5 each
Purse: Juicy Couture/Neiman Marcus Last Call, $115
White bracelet: c/o Pop of Chic
Gold bracelets: Forever 21, $8

Flashback Friday: Colorful Cardigans

Blues and greens

[Click the photos to view them larger.] Today I'm paying tribute to one of my all-time favorite pieces: the colorful cardigan. They come in so many wonderful shades, and I love the effect you get when combining them with other vibrant colors. Nothing transforms a look quite like a colorful cardigan!

Tell me - what do you love about cardigans? Which colors are your favorite?

Purples and pinks

Yellows and greens

My cardigans (from left to right, by row):
1. Turquoise - H&M, $18
2. Muted turquoise - Banana Republic, $35
3. Royal blue - Express, $20
4. Electric blue - H&M, $18
5. Purple - Banana Republic, $12
6. Pink - New York & Company, $22
7. Blush - LOFT, $15
8. Mustard - H&M, $18
9. Pumpkin - Banana Republic
10. Pale yellow - Banana Republic, $14
11. Pea green - LOFT, $20

Today's Everyday Fashion: A New Trick

Some trends are not for me. I like maxi dresses, but for some reason maxi skirts make me feel really tall, awkward and like I'm a school teacher on a prairie. They look great on other women but I'm just not ready to commit to buying one. I recently had a lightbulb moment though - what if I just convert a maxi dress into a skirt? (Taking my own advice from this post.) So I gave it a try! I added a silky collared shirt over my new maxi dress. I tied the ends in a knot, and then tucked them up to create a shirt that was the perfect length (bonus: knotting your shirt like this is also a big trend right now). I think it's a cute look that will be perfect for wearing this maxi dress in the fall, and makes it appropriate for work! Have you ever tried this trick with your maxi dresses?

Dress: c/o The Unique Closet, $46 - Check out the product videos they recently added to their website - you might recognize the model! ;-p
Belt: Gap, $10 (recent)
Shirt (right): Gap, $10
Necklace: c/o Stella & Dot, $55
Charm: c/o Stella & Dot, $19
Shoes: Steve Madden Riddgge c/o MJR Sales, $40
Watch: Michael Kors, family gift
Bracelets: Forever 21, $8
Purse: c/o It's in the Bag, $70

Today's Everyday Fashion: Green with Envy

When I saw this DVF photo I was green with envy. So much so, that I decided to pull some green items out of my own closet and make my own green look. I love how colorful it is, and yet all the colors blend together and look almost muted. (Anyone seeing what I'm seeing?) What are some of your favorite unexpected color combos this summer?

I'm also asking for a quick favor today - would you consider becoming an official "follower" of the blog by clicking the "Follow" button in the right-hand column? I hate when people ask just to ask (and I'm honestly way less concerned with how many fans I have, than how much you guys like the content!), but would be really, really helpful for a couple projects I'm working on to have a higher # in that box. Thanks for your help ladies! ;-)

Inspiration photo: Diane von Furstenberg
Occasion: Work
Cardigan: H&M, $18
Shirt: Gap, $32
Skirt: LOFT, $55
Belt: Gap, $3
Shoes: Banana Republic, $50
Watch: Michael Kors, family gift
Bracelets: Forever 21, $8
Earrings: c/o Mikel Maia

Photo Shoot with Layne Haley

My friend Layne Haley is a genius. We went to high school together and I've been following her photography career for the past two years. She takes amazing pictures - everything from the usual weddings and engagements, to creative fashion and boudoir. Words can't really express how talented she is - so I will just show you. I was lucky to have her take some pictures while I was in Kansas, and she totally blew me away. It's hard to get a picture of me not smiling my big goofy grin that's not completely *awkward*, and I would have to say that she totally nailed it. :-)

To book a session with Layne email her at LAYNE@LAYNEHALEY.COM. Also become a fan of her Facebook page and website for more photos!

Today's Everyday Fashion: The New Staple

I have to admit that when I first spotted this white blazer, I hesitated to buy it. I was seeing them everywhere and loving them on celebrities, but I just wasn't sure if I would be able to style it correctly/pull it off. Fast forward to month later and this is now a staple in my wardrobe! Just try and get me to not post an outfit with it for a week, I dare you. :-) What items have you been reluctant to buy, but wound up loving?

Inspiration photo: Shopbop
Occasion: Work
Blazer: Victoria's Secret c/o MJR Sales, $35
Shirt: Banana Republic, $17
Skirt: J.Crew, $48
Shoes: Aldo, $50
Necklace: c/o Stella & Dot, $55
Watch: Michael Kors, family gift
Bracelets: Forever 21, $8
Purse: c/o It's in the Bag, $78

Today's Everyday Fashion: The Biggest Fish

Last week I talked about wearing a scarf and a necklace together in this outfit post, and today I'm using a similar trick, a la the Ann Taylor inspiration photo! It's a slightly different version with the scarf open, and I have to say I'm diggin' it. The other thing I love about this work look: the entire thing cost $100!!! A couple items I've had for years, and I used coupons and shopped sales (as usual). I also got the shoes at one of my favorite bargain stores - Ross. Don't you love it when you realize your entire outfit cost $100, or $50 or even $20?! Leave your best budget-outfit stories to see who has earned bragging rights. :-)

Inspiration photo: Ann Taylor
Occasion: Work
Cardigan: Express, $20 (really old)
Shirt: Forever 21, $5
Scarf: Banana Republic, $6
Belt: Express, came with a dress
Skirt: Banana Republic, $35
Necklace: Express, $15 (really old)
Shoes: Steve Madden via Ross, $20
Watch: Michael Kors, family gift

Today's Everyday Fashion: Hot Momma

Kate Hudson is one hot momma in today's inspiration photo. She may have a bit of an unrealistic lifestyle for many of us, but I am still hoping to rock outfits like these (and have her gams) after I have babies someday. I may even carry around a toy as an accessory/paparazzi shield like she is. ;-)

Styling tips: I love the idea of an all-white outfit with a fun or neutral colored jacket over it. One thing that is tricky about it though: you can't take the jacket off or you will look like you are painting someone's house. So check the weather and plan accordingly!  I also bet you won't believe me, but I've had this jacket for at least 5 years. I thought I was over it and almost sold it recently. That is, until I saw Kate wearing one and had a change of heart. Fashion is fickle.

Inspiration photo: FabSugar
Jacket: The Limited, really old
T-shirt: Gap, $10
Belt: H&M, $20
Shorts: American Eagle, $25
Necklace: Banana Republic, $20
Shoes: Steve Madden "Riddgge" c/o MJR Sales, $40

Today's Everyday Fashion: The Comfort Zone

This is one of those looks that I will throw on to wear pretty much anywhere - to run errands, have a lunch meeting, or even a casual dinner. It includes so many of my favorite items from my closet - white jeans, a turquoise necklace, and my favorite wedges.  It's an outfit I definitely feel the most comfortable in, especially when I'm not in the mood for a complex or "loud" outfit. Tell me - what do you wear on days when you're just not feeling fashionable?

Occasion: Versatile. Errands, dinner, pretty much anywhere!
Shirt: Victoria's Secret c/o MJR Sales, $14 (you can buy it for $34.50 at Victoria's Secret here)
Necklace: H&M, $14 (recent)
Jeans: Gap, $35
Belt: H&M, $20
Purse: Juicy Couture/Neiman Marcus, $115
Watch: Michael Kors, family gift
Bracelets: Forever 21, $8
Shoes: c/o Chinese Laundry

Today's Everyday Fashion: Mixed Messages

Last week I did Flashback Friday a day early, and this week I'm going to do it a day late. (whoopsie!) I totally forgot Friday was coming up and didn't prepare, so instead I'm showing you what I'm actually wearing today. It's the last day for us to use our Disney passes so we are spending the late afternoon/night at the parks. I'm going to show those kiddos that even adults can rock hot pink shorts. :-)

Styling tips: When it comes to color right now, throw the rules right out the window. The most unexpected combos that may seem like they may clash can be some of the best. Such as pink and red like I talked about last week, or orange and pink in today's look. If you have been wanting to try some fun colors, now is the time to try!

Inspiration photo: J. Crew
Occasion: Disney
Cardigan: Gap, $18
Shirt: Banana Republic, $18
Belt: Gap, $10
Shorts: Forever 21, $18
Shoes: Chinese Laundry/DSW, $27
Necklace: c/o Stella & Dot, $55
Watch: Michael Kors, family gift
Bracelets: Forever 21, $8
Purse: c/o It's in the Bag, $78

Today's Everyday Fashion: The Cold Shoulder

Today, I am giving you the cold shoulder. And crossing an item off my fashion to-do list - because this is my first one-sleeve dress! I've always loved this type of dress and have been seeing them in stores a lot lately so I was excited to try this one out (and as an added bonus, it was perfect for re-creating these People.com looks I've had saved forever). What's your take on one-sleeve dresses? Do you love 'em or leave 'em?

Inspiration photo: People.com
Dress: c/o Shop Ruche, $39.99 (comes in a bunch of other colors!)
Belt: Limited, $10
Blazer: Victoria's Secret c/o MJR Sales, $35
Fringe necklace: Banana Republic, $13
Pink necklace: J.Crew, $40
Clutch: Juicy Couture/TJ Maxx, $70
Watch: Michael Kors, family gift
Bracelets: Forever 21, $8
Shoes: BCBG/Ross, $20

Today's Everyday Fashion: The Purse Challenge

Call me crazy, but I don't like purses! I know it goes against every fiber of my fashion-loving being, but I have always viewed them as a place to store things, and I use the same one everyday, even if it doesn't go great with my outfit (the horror!). So, I decided to challenge myself this year! If purses are my weakness, then I am going to work on it. My biggest obstacle though - budget. I can't bring myself to carry a faux leather purse (no judgment if you do - that is purely a personal preference), which means I have to lay down at least $150-400 if I want a new purse. And I don't have that kind of cash.

So... lucky for me (and you!) I stumbled upon the holy grail of purses. It's called "It's in the Bag" and they have something I've never seen before - purses in the $50-100 range that are real leather. SIKE. They are totally not real leather, but I can't tell the difference!! I don't know how they do it, but it pretty much rocks my world. I have a feeling that my closet (and outfit posts) will never be the same. We are staring a new era on J's Everyday Fashion, mark my words ladies...

About this outfit: I love the idea of wearing a graphic tee and a pencil skirt like this! I also adore the hat, but I always feel funny in hats (unless I'm on the beach) so I showed it with and without. And the purse... oh the purse! I love that it adds a pop of color to the outfit and is actually part of the outfit and not just a place to store stuff. I can already feel my fashion horizons expanding. :-) 

What is your take on purses - love 'em or hate 'em? Would you wear the hat with this outfit - and if so, where?

Also comes in turquoise & black!

Inspiration photo: Madewell
Shirt: Zara, $13
Skirt: LOFT, $55
Belt: Banana Republic, $30
Shoes: Chinese Laundry/Piperlime, $34
Hat: Banana Republic, $20
Watch: Michael Kors, family gift
Bracelets: Forever 21, $8
Purse: c/o It's in the Bag, $78