It’s a new day

Shorts: Banana Republic.  Tights: Macy’s.  Shoes: Nicole Miller.  Pink Ruffle Top: Target.  Vest: Antonio Melan.  Bracelets: Thrifted.

 

 

It’s just been announced that we can wear “whatever we want” at work, which definitely open a door to fashion creativity.  At least that’s how I registered that announcement…  While I think of that decision as a great way to give employees more freedom, most people seem to automatically assume it means “wear jeans every day”.  I actually got several comments / questions when I showed up in something other than jeans after the announcement! 

While jeans may be an American staple and while I definitely appreciate them from time to time, I don’t think I’ll be making them my 5 day a week work wear attire. 

With this change - I would like to find more ways to be a little more funky and fun in my everyday business looks – while still keeping the chic simplicity that I like as well.  May sound like a difficult combo, but I’d like to try and make it work!  This outfit was my first effort  :)  What do you think.  Did I succeed?

Rolling out of bed

   

Dress: INC.  Belt: thrift.  Shoes: Jessica Simpson.  Olive blazer: DKNY. 

This was one of those mornings that I just had trouble rolling out of bed.  Actually, this whole week was hard for me.  I’ve just been super tired.  Maybe it’s because summer is winding down and I am in much need of a vacation.  I’ve taken a couple long weekend trips this year, but no REAL vacation – it’s definitely time!

All that said… I did manage to pull myself together and get dressed for the day.  I went more feminine with the dress and then added the contrast of the casual blazer.  I pulled my hair back because I just didn’t feel like doing it today!

A little sugar goes a long way

Polka Dot Dress: Worthington.  Belt: gift.  Bracelet: Forever XXI.  Shoes: Jessica Simpson. 

I’m feeling sweet in my sweetheart neckline dress.  The little polka dots on the dress and matching shoes are kinda sweet too…  Good thing I was able to get some spicy Thai food for dinner tonight or I might have had a sugar overload!

 

Ruffle Love

 

Pink polka dot cardigan: Target.  Ruffle top: Macy’s.  Jeans: NY & Co.  Shoes: Newport News. 

 

I love that ruffles are still “in” this season, but really – I’d wear them whether they were or not. 

 

The good on ruffles:

1. If your smaller on top, ruffles can balance out your frame and bring symmetry to your figure.

2. Ruffles are an easy way to bring visual interest to an otherwise basic outfit.

3. Ruffles can fit almost any personality – they can be big and bold, or delicate and dainty.  Choose the ruffle style that works best for you!

4. Ruffled items are everywhere now, so they’re easy to find if you want to purchase.  If you’re trying ruffles for the first time, try Forever 21, H&M, Alloy.com, or Delias for affordable ruffle experiments.

The bad on ruffles:

1. Be wary of where you wear them on your body, because ruffles add bulk.  If you are looking to slim your hips, or camouflage broad shoulders – those are not the places to add ruffles.

2. Just like any bold pattern or color, ruffles can overwhelm. Remember when you look in the mirror – your should first see YOU, not your clothes.  If all you see is ruffles, you probably need to scale down.

3. They are a trend, so they won’t be around forever.  I suggest spending less on trendy items and more on staple items, so look for affordable ruffle options vs. spending high dollar for something that may not be in style next season. 

On a quest….. can you help?

Yay for bare legs!  I’m still feeling “springy” and am loving the little bit of warmer weather we’ve experienced recently here in Cincinnati.

I felt a bit more overdone today than normal – tie top, stud detailing, belt, ruffle & polka dots on the shoes, etc.. it was a lot of “stuff” for me, but I decided to go with it and I ended up really liking the mix.

Black Studded Cardigan: INC.  Navy Silk Tie Top: Forever XXI.  Skirt: NY & Co.  Belt: gifted.  Shoes: Fioni.  Earrings: Macy’s.

 

So yesterday is finally past and I was able to get up on the right side of the bed this morning.

It also helped to listen to “Bright Side of the Road” by Van Morrison and “Say Hey I Love You” by Michael Franti & Spearhead.  Seriously – I couldn’t help but smile and do a little jig  :)

Now my focus is to keep myself more active and busy outside of work.  That always helps me from getting overwhelmed about work and will keeps me energized and motivated overall. 

I’d like to get out and visit some of the extended Cincinnati area museums, parks, restaurants, shops, etc…

Any recommendations?  send them my way!