Happy Thanksgiving!

Happy Thanksgiving! by theclosetbychristie featuring autumn home decor

A special Happy Thanksgiving greeting from The Closet by Christie! I'm currently celebrating the holiday with my family and I hope you are, too!

For live as-it-happens coverage of my holiday, follow me on social networks:

Instagram

Twitter

Enjoy this special day of giving thanks!

The Power of Thank You

Give Thanks by theclosetbychristie on Polyvore

One of the things LuckyFABB reinforced for me is the importance of gratitude. The energy you put out into this world is so important and we truly need each other to achieve success. It seems like entitlement is becoming more and more common these days but the truth is, you are entitled to nothing. Do you deserve happiness and nice things? Yes, you probably do deserve it because you are amazing. But does the world owe you happiness and nice things? Absolutely not. There's a big difference between these two!

It's okay to work hard and savor the pay-off! I think it's necessary to enjoy and celebrate the sweet success that results from your blood, sweat, and tears! However, it's just as important to be gracious to those that helped you get there. A heartfelt 'thank you' will go a long way. When I go out of my way to help someone, that beautifully simple 'thank you' makes me feel the warm fuzzies. It makes me root for you! People remember emotion and how things make them feel above all else. When you need my help again, I will remember how it made me feel and that will urge me to help again.

I am thankful for:

1- Support: The humble success of my blog and those that supported me through it all (my family, friends, fellow blogger friends, and YOU)

2- Health: Most people say that without your health, you have nothing. I learned this first-hand at this time last year as I battled long-term lyme disease. I had lived with it for a year undiagnosed, so it was a tricky recovery. It left me with fibromyalgia and the lesson of the true importance of health and that it is not guaranteed at any age. I still have my challenges, but I am grateful to be lyme-free!

3- Stability: In this job and financial market, I am lucky to have more than I need. I have a stable job that I enjoy, a lovely home, and enough to live a comfortable life. 

4- My Dog: I am very thankful to have my Paisley in my life because she brings me joy, laughter, and love each and every day. 

As Thanksgiving is quickly approaching, let's remember to be gracious. What are you thankful for?

OOTD: Itty Bitty Houndstooth

Last month, I expressed my new-found love for the Fall 2013 print houndstooth (see previous post: Must-Have Fall Prints: Houndstooth). These days I'm embracing this classic black and white trend in real life! I got this button-up collared top last week from Kohl's. It's called a No Iron top by Chaps because it's made with wrinkle-resistant fabric. This is amazing because I really don't like to iron and these types of tops tend to get wrinkled easily! I love this top because it was affordable (only $39.99, plus Kohls always has great coupons) and it is the epitome of chic with the black and white print and classic silhouette. The houndstooth print is small-scaled so it's really versatile to style.

I paired the houndstooth top with a forest green piped a-line skirt from Banana Republic. It's on sale on their website for $79.99, but I also used a 40% off coupon. Can't beat that! The deep hue is perfect for the Fall and Winter seasons and it has trendy leather detailing on it. It's both flattering and comfortable! I accessorized with this amazing elongated bow belt that I got from White House Black Market. It was actually advertised in Marie Claire magazine when it first came out. I ordered it online on sale and it was SO worth it because it goes with almost anything. It jazzes up any look!  

Love my look? You can get it, too!

1- Forest Green Piped A-line Skirt: Banana Republic, $79.99

2- Houndstooth No Iron Top: Chaps by Kohls, $39.00

3- Black Elongated Bow Belt: White House Black Market, $38.00

4- Snake Print Pointed-Toe Flats: White House Black Market, $49.99

5- Black Opague Tights: Simply Vera Wang by Kohls, $7.99

6- Glittered Hinged Bangle: Charming Charlie, Complimentary Gift, Retail Value: $10.00

7- Crystal Dangle Earrings: White House Black Market, $38.00 

*the pair pictured is no longer available; try these instead!

Hunger Games Catching Fire Inspired Hair

Primrose Wrap-Around Braid by theclosetbychristie on Polyvore

Haven't seen the movie yet? Don't worry- I won't spoil it!

Last Thursday, I saw the much anticipated Catching Fire premiere! I've been waiting over a year for this day, since the first Hunger Games movie came out in March 2012 and I read all three books just a short time before that. I have to say it- thank you to the production team for making us wait while they took the time to make it perfect! Every detail and special effect was amazing. It was true to the book and brought my vision of the book to life as I had imagined it. And did I mention the fashion? Ah, breathtaking. 

I am an all-time lover of braids and am known among my friends and acquaintances for styling my hair in unique braided do's. Naturally I was inspired by the many lovely braided hair styles in the movie; the Primrose wrap-around braid (as I call it) in particular.  When I was getting ready to go out Saturday night, I was in a bit of a pinch for time so I decided to give it a try. If french braiding is second nature for you, then it's a pretty quick hairstyle because the braid takes up about half of your hair. You'll have that much less to blow dry and style! I used my wand to curl the rest of my hair. This braid is pretty simple to do if you already have the braiding skills, but it really makes people say 'wow, how did you do that?' Trust me, it looks more complicated than it is.

Catching Fire Inspired Hair by theclosetbychristie featuring pins & brooches

Want to get my look? Check out this Wrap-Around Prim Braid Tutorial I found by Cute Girls Hairstyles blog. It gives very thorough step by step instructions and she really knows what she's talking about!

It's a Boho Chic Weekend!

A decade ago, the words 'bohemian' and 'chic' would never have fallen into the same sentence. They're two completely different styles! Bohemian is a hippie-inspired style centered around loose fitted clothing, fringe, and nature-inspired themes. Chic is often associated with high-fashion and is just another word for elegant or stylish. So how did these two styles ever merge? In the years 2004 and 2005 celebrities like Kate Moss and Sienna Miller embraced the boho style and added their own flair of glitz and glam. Boho-chic was born and influenced a style movement. Now, boho-chic can be found anywhere and fashion brands like Free People and Anthropologie are based on the style. Wikipedia: Boho Chic.

As a whole, my personal style would be considered classic, very feminine, and sometimes elegant with a splash of my own boho-chic. The look featured above is my own version of boho-chic styled for a crisp Fall weekend! 

This bow headband is perfect for a Fall to Winter season transition! The knit fabric isn't too heavy, but it would certainly keep your ears warm on a chilly day; this makes it ideal for both seasons! I love how the Croft & Barrow paisley scarf adds some detail and the Kluster Banana Split necklace adds a beautiful color pop to my all-natural color palette.

My little model, Paisley, was jealous! She kept trying to sneak into the shots, so I invited her to share the spotlight in this one.

I love a good accessory pic! Want to get in on the fun? Check out these affordable items!

- Croft & Barrow Paisley Scarf from Kohl's ($16.99)

- Kluster Banana Split Necklace (Complimentary Gift, Retail Price: $58)

- Charming Charlie Bangle Set (Complimentary Gift, Retail Price: $10)

- Gold Two-Charm Bracelet (Complimentary Gift from blogger Angelis at Angelisd)

- Call It Spring Bow Headband ($12)

- LC Lauren Conrad Lace Chiffon Top ($17.60 on sale now)

PS I'm linking up with The Tiny Heart and Penniless Socialite in their Look What I Got! link-up.

YOU Style! Tortoise Shell Accents

Contest Winners! Tortoise Shell Accents by theclosetbychristie on polyvore.com

Tortoise is the new neutral! It's stylish and classy, but the BEST part is that it truly matches with anything. Earlier this month, I demonstrated how to style it (see previous post: How-To Style Guide: Tortoise Shell Accents). I love this trend so much that I decided to keep the conversation going. I put YOUR skills to the test by challenging the always-fabulous members of my Polyvore group 'What's In Your Closet?' Here's the results!

Over 40 entries were entered and it was really tough to judge. All of them were so lovely in their own way! The above photo carousel (click 'right' arrow to see more) displays the top 3 winners of the contest. These sets are so beautiful, both artistically and fashionably. The color palettes on each are completely perfect for the Fall season and the tortoise accent gives each that extra ounce of class!

Congratulate my winners by following their Polyvore profiles: @carolinez1, @myfavoritethings-mimi, and @kginger!

Tri-State Blogger Meet-Up

Credit: Moda by Monika

On Saturday, my fabulous blogger friend Monica, the lovely stylist behind Moda by Monika, hosted her very first Blogger Meet-Up! Myself, six other bloggers, and a photographer all gathered at Le Pain Quotidien in Soho for an organic and/or botanical brunch. The food was delicious, but most importantly, the ladies I met were completely amazing inside and out. Naturally as you would expect from fashion bloggers, everyone was dressed to the nines in trendy fashions. They all looked fabulous! That aside, everyone was so kind, down to earth, and very talented. From the moment I arrived, I was comfortable and felt like I'd been around this group forever!

Thank you for hosting, Monica!

#linklove

Monica of Moda by Monika

Sharon of The Tiny Heart

Sara of Sincerely Sara

Alexandra of Glory Boon

Mel of Simple Stylezz

Angelis of Angelisd

All of us (Credit: Moda by Monika)

Me and Monica (Credit: Moda by Monika)

Blogger Love (Credit: Yvonne, Friend & Photographer of Moda by Monika)

From Left: Sharon, Sara, Mel, Angelis, Monica, Alexandra, and me

How-To Style Guide: Chunky Cable-Knit Sweater

Chunky Cable Knit Sweater by theclosetbychristie featuring diamond earrings

It's sweater season! Winter is just around the corner and the Fall days here in New Jersey are beginning to turn brisk. But who knew there could be so many types of sweaters? There's cropped, oversized, jewel-collared, high-low, turtlenecks, and the list goes on! But the sweater of the season seems to be the cable-knit sweater. I've been seeing them everywhere! This type of knitting is achieved by crossing layers, most commonly in a style similar to a braid. The layering of textures causes the sweater to have a bulky look, which makes it a tricky trend to style while maintaining a flattering silhouette. 

In the above set, I featured a blush Carven chunky cable-knit sweater. Although it may be a style challenge, it's totally worth it because the cable-knitting adds a perfect textured look to the sweater. I say, the chunkier the better! I paired the cable-knit sweater with a Mulberry bouclé-tweed pencil skirt. The keys to styling the cable-knit sweater are balance and contrast. I find any chunky sweater best styled when tucked into a feminine skirt or worn oversized with a pair of skinny jeans. Both of these styles will offer a beautiful, flattering silhouette and is a great office to weekend transition. I added a pale yellow faux leather jacket to the look. I love this because it adds yet another element of style. Get it a size larger to style over sweaters! The asymmetrical zipper detail drapes so beautifully over the sweater. 

"I find any chunky sweater best styled when tucked into a feminine skirt or worn oversized 

with a pair of skinny jeans."

For this look, I accessorized with a cream Marc Jacobs leather shoulder bag and brown heeled lace-up ankle booties. I love both of these items because they have a classic look. Sometimes ankle booties can be unflattering because they may give legs a stumpy look. This particular pair dips down slightly in the front, which helps to prevent this and instead, elongates the leg. For jewelry, I chose gold diamond frame earrings from Barneys, a Lanvin yellow crystal ribbon necklace, and an orange J.C. Penney mixed media stretch bracelet.

Want to style your own cable-knit sweater? Here's some affordable options!

Merona Crewnecks & Scoopnecks · Liz Claiborne Sweaters · Notations Sweaters

What Is Rustic Style Fashion?

Rustic Fall by theclosetbychristie featuring a stretch bracelet

Although I'm by no means from the country, I love rustic style for the Fall season. It's known as country-inspired but more specifically, it's simple yet charming. Pertaining to furniture you may find unfinished wood or textured surfaces, exposed brick, or wheelbarrow decor. For fashion, the color palette plays a large role. You may see smokey greys, deep greens, and Fall foliage colors like orange, red, and brown. A few styles may include plaid, tweed, and elbow-patches. It's very Fall!

In the above set, I featured a rustic style look. I paired a chocolate Roberto Collina rolled neck top with a grey and orange Marni tweed wool pencil skirt and a grey Twenty Three herringbone blazer. This look is the epitome of rustic. Everything from the colors to the fabrics fit the style perfectly. I accessorized with chocolate suede and sweater ankle booties and a rust and brown Madewell vintage-style lovelock tote. I love the combination of fabrics on the ankle booties! It makes them look so cozy and unique. For jewelry, I chose a gold bird pendant necklace from Barneys, bronze Janis Savitt flower stud earrings, and a brown Forever 21 stretch bracelet.

Love the rustic style for Fall? Shop it for less!

Marni Skirts · Wanted Boots · Forever 21 Jewelry

YOU Style! Thigh-High Boots For The Office

Contest Winners: Thigh-High Boots For The Office by theclosetbychristie on polyvore.com

Thigh-high boots are all the rage right now in the fashion world, but it's one of those tricky trends to style. It's even tougher to style for the office! Infinite boots tend to have a negative image as they have been viewed as a sex symbol for decades. But that being said- every woman loves a good pair of boots! As I always say, it's all in the way you style it. A few months ago, I took on the style challenge and created a How-To Style Guide on wearing thigh-high boots for the office (see previous post: How-To Style Guide: Thigh-High Boots For Fall). I pinned the image on Pinterest and it went viral! That sealed the deal for me- this topic needed more coverage! 

So, I challenged the members of my Polyvore group 'What's In Your Closet?' to try their skills at styling this tricky trend. They were just as excited to try this challenge as I was! We got 60 entries entered into the contest- did I mention they were all fabulous? Well, this contest in particular was difficult for me to judge since the members of my exclusive group are all so talented.

The above photo carousel (click 'right' arrow to see more) displays the top 3 winners of the contest. Each of these fabulous fashionistas not only shined in styling thigh-high boots, but they styled the tricky trend in a classy and elegant manner for the office.

Congratulate my winners by following their Polyvore profiles: @simona-risi, @barbaratweten, and @kginger!

How To Use Polyvore As a Blogging Tool

How To Use Polyvore As A Blogging Tool by theclosetbychristie on Polyvore

Wonder how the magic of my blog comes together? Prior to starting my blog, I had no experience with photography, photoshop, or any graphic design for that matter. But I was passionate- I'm a writer, a true life-long lover of fashion, a trendsetter, and an artist. I had to start a blog to direct all of this energy to! Then I discovered Polyvore. I developed a real community there and in time, a pretty decent following. I gained my confidence, found my signature style, and then, launched my blog! I've found Polyvore to be such a useful tool for not only self-discovery, but what ended up to be the most important- a powerful blog tool.

How To Use Polyvore As a Blogging Tool:

1. Get Inspired. Polyvore is a serious community with inspiration everywhere. When I'm stuck in a writing slump, I grab a cup of coffee and explore Polyvore. You can search contests, trends trending on the site, the items of the day collection, and friends sets and item likes! I like to click around until something inspires me. Once it hits me, the rest falls into place and I can write from passion. I'm 11-months into blogging and I've yet to run out of ideas!

2. Create. Once you find your inspiration, you'll want to create. You can create a set or a collection using the Mini-Editor, which is basically a very-user-friendly type of Photoshop. As you've seen on my blog, I prefer to style complete outfits using clothing only. But Polyvore offers a wide variety of items not limited to clothing. They also have home & beauty products, photography, backgrounds, color blocks, symbols, numbers, etc. There's so many ways to create a million different styles of posts. 

A few ideas: Day to Night Look, Top 5 Favorite Winter Coats, Save vs Splurge.

3. Share. When you publish your set, it will be shared with the Polyvore Community. But there's now so many other ways to share your content on many different social networking sites. Polyvore sets are commonly found on Pinterest, Twitter, and Facebook. Most importantly, you can share your content to your blog. Link your blog to Polyvore and it always shows as an option to share. There's a few different layouts you can choose from so it is always customized. I always select to upload as a draft, so I can add my commentary and how-to style tips.

4. Your Photos. Your Way. Ok, so it doesn't always have to be about sets. Sometimes I go to events and take my own photos. A fun way to customize these photos is by clipping them to Polyvore and adding some creativity to them. As shown in my previous post Lucky Magazine Movado ESQ One NYFW Party, I added some cool graphics and my own captions to my photos. I then put the photos into a collection on Polyvore and uploaded to my blog. When you upload a collection from Polyvore to your blog, it gives the cool layout option of adding a slideshow. I love this feature because it makes my post look professional (and not a visual overload). It's similar to what fashion magazine's, like Lucky Magazine's 10 Tips For The Perfect Sweater, post to their websites!

Add to the conversation! What Polyvore features do you find useful for blogging?

Embrace Boho-Chic At The Office With Aztec Print

Aztec Cape by theclosetbychristie featuring patent leather bags

Aztec print is the epitome of a bohemian style. It's cool, it's artistic, and it even has an ethnic vibe to it. Common boho-chic characteristics include loose, flowy clothing and layered jewelry. However the style is not limited to just this, as it's really all about individuality. So, how can we pull off this free-spirited look at the office? The best way to achieve this is by incorporating accessories with warm tones into your look.

In the above set, I featured a Warehouse aztec cape. This is a great piece for the office because of the warm color palette. The silhouette gives it that bohemian look, but it drapes in such a feminine way. For the look, I chose a white bow blouse and navy Orla Kiely quilted flower pencil skirt. I love this pairing because it's a classic business look with a modern bohemian twist. It's perfect for the office because it's chic professional with just a splash of the aztec print. I pulled the deep reds from the cape and used it for my accessories and jewelry. I accessorized with a patent leather Vivienne Westwood handbag and Brian Atwood leather booties. I really love these booties because of the cut-out design in the back and the tassel bow detail. The pointed toe also helps to elongate the leg, which is always a great thing! For jewelry, I chose a red Lanvin pendant necklace, Target teardrop earrings, and a gold leather Banana Republic bangle.

Want to add a splash of boho to your work wardrobe? Check out my 12 Affordable Aztec Accents-

Topshop Scarves & Wraps · Topshop Sweaters · Ettika Diamond Bracelets

Adding Style to a Basic Sweater

Cobalt & Sweaters by theclosetbychristie featuring black pumps

It's sweater season! But that doesn't mean you have to throw your style away. There's so many ways that you can doll up a basic sweater. You can glam it up with a statement necklace, drape a beautiful shawl over it, or even accessorize with bold, bright colors. There's a multitude of options! This is one of my favorite aspects of fashion. When you have some basics in your closet, it gives you a chance to customize your look. You can transform that same old simple sweater so it looks different every time you wear it!

In the above set, I featured a beige Rag & Bone oversized sweater. I like this sweater because it's simple and allows endless options for styling. It's perfect for any occasion; apple picking, shopping, work, and even an evening out. It's all in the way you style it! Now, that's a versatile sweater! I paired the sweater with a Paul Smith cropped blazer in an eye-catching cobalt and a plaid midi skirt. The blazer is perfect with this sweater because it adds the perfect color pop and has beautiful lines, while the skirt is the pattern of the season- plaid. I accessorized with a cobalt Emilio Pucci leather bag and black Vivienne Westwood ankle booties. I love the leopard print bow on the boots! For jewelry, I chose to glam up the sweater with a sapphire BaubleBar statement necklace, a blue BaubleBar cuff, and blue Tory Burch geometric studs.

Want a basic sweater you can add your flair to? Check out my 11 Basic Sweaters For Under $40-

Merona Crewnecks & Scoopnecks · Dorothy Perkins Sweaters · Merona Sweaters

Lace-Up Ankle Booties For Fall

Lace-Up Ankle Booties by theclosetbychristie featuring a heart bracelet

One of my favorite parts of the Fall season is breaking out my boots! This year, I'm especially in love with ankle booties. Whether you pair it with skinny jeans or bright tights, it's a must-have accessory for this season. 

In the above set, I featured bright orange Kate Spade lace-up ankle booties. I absolutely love these boots because of the bright, fun color and silhouette! It's such a classic, beautiful shape with a modern color-pop. For the look, I paired a black Dolce & Gabbana bow blouse with a textured Orla Kiely boucle skirt and a nude La Marque cascade leather blazer. There's so many things to love about this look! I love that it's a neutral color palette with small color-pops. I also like the modern details and feminine silhouette. I accessorized with a tan Alexander Wang satchel. For jewelry, I chose colorful Kate Spade chandelier earrings, a black Kate Spade bow watch, and a black Kate Spade glasses ring. 

Are you a fashionista on a budget? Check out my 50 Fabulous Ankle Boots For Under $50-

Fahrenheit Boots · Mossimo Boots · Merona Boots

How-To Style A Modcloth Wire Headband

As a Fashion Blogger I'm always dishing out the Style Challenges to you, but it's rare when someone challenges me! I was elated when Modcloth gave me a Style Challenge. I have a competitive nature and always welcome anything that gets my creative juices flowing! The challenge was to style a Modcloth Through the Wire Headband that I received as a gift in the LuckyFABB gift bag. It's a wired headband that comes in many different styles, colors, and patterns. The best part about styling this is the fact that there's a wire beneath the fabric; it can be positioned in so many different ways!

I styled my metallic silver wire headband into a look that can only be described as a modern turban meets boho-chic style. Want to DIY? It's simple!

You'll need:

- A Modcloth Through the Wire Headband (it's only $13.99!)

- An embellishment of your choice

How-To:

1. Wrap the headband around your head and over your hair

2. Fold one end over the other

3. Twist the ends around each other once (Tip: If it doesn't feel secure, give it another twist)

4. Add your embellishment (I used a flower clip!)

5. And... voila!

Want to see how other bloggers styled it? Search #modFABB on Instagram!

How-To Style Guide: Tortoise Shell Accents

Tortoise Shell by theclosetbychristie featuring tortoise jewelry

My latest obsession is tortoise shell accessories! It started out a sunglasses craze in the summer and now it's taken over all accessories for fall- from jewelry to shoes, bags, and hair barrettes. This chic trend is a perfect neutral accent and pairs well with a bright color pop look. I also love that it's a trend inspired by nature. It's so amazing that we can take something ordinary and make it so extraordinary in fashion!

In the above set, I featured fabulous tortoise shell accessories; a J.Crew tortoise shell flower statement necklace, a Michael Kors tortoise shell bangle, and tan Tory Burch tortoise-accented block-heels. I love each of these accessories because they are very trendy, yet the tortoise shell brings a timeless elegance to it. For the look, I styled a bright yellow wool Gianluca Capannolo dress. I love this dress because of the bright, fun color and flattering silhouette. It's the perfect example of a fit-and-flare dress, which is really on trend right now too. I accessorized with a brown Fiorelli snake-skin handbag. I like this print paired with the tortoise shell accessories because it's also inspired from nature and the color palette remains cohesive. It also adds some texture to our look, which you know I love!

Crushing on tortoise shell? Check out my 15 Must-Have Tortoise Shell Accessories- 

J.Crew Sunglasses · Michael Kors Watches · J.Crew Hair Accessories

Studded Loafers For The Office

Studded Loafers by theclosetbychristie featuring studded flat shoes

The rockstar style- everyone from celebrities to bloggers and everyday fashionistas are rocking this look! It's all about studs, leather, and chains; it's so edgy and fabulous! The accessory that I've been just loving lately are studded loafers. Loafers capture the essence of classic and traditional, so I love that the studs modernize and switch up the style of them. It's such a lovely contrast! My personal style is far from edgy; it's feminine, romantic, and crisp. If you're like me, these loafers are a fun way to add some edge to your look without having to compromise your personal style.

In the above set, I featured a pair of black J.Crew studded loafers. These are the perfect pair for the office because the studs are flat, so it lessens the edginess. I especially love that it alternates between silver square and gold circle studs. It gives it more of an embellished look, which adds a bit of elegance. For the look, I paired a tan Toast wool skirt with a black Tory Burch bow blouse and a black and white Alice + Olivia striped tweed jacket. I love this look because it's simple, yet contains a lot of feminine details. The color palette is lovely for Fall! I accessorized with a black H&M handbag; the classic silhouette really goes great with the look. For jewelry, I chose black Kate Spade pansy chandelier earrings and a color block Kate Spade bow hinged bangle.

Love it, Want it? Here's 10 Studded Loafers for Under $100 (P.S. I have the Rock & Republic pair!)-

Jeffrey Campbell Flats · Sam Edelman Flats · Aldo Flats

YOU Style! a #LuckyFABB Look

Style a LuckyFABB Look Contest Winner by theclosetbychristie on polyvore.com

One of the BEST aspects of LuckyFABB was interacting with the other bloggers and of course, checking out all of their fabulous looks! There's nothing like being in a room with 300+ fashionistas! Everyone has such unique taste, so it's interesting to see how differently each look is styled. Now I'm including YOU in all of the fun! I challenged the always fabulous members of my Polyvore group 'What's In Your Closet?' and the entries were impeccable!

The above set is the lovely work of our 1st Place Winner, Lisa! I absolutely love her look! The combination of textures is what makes it unique. I love the fur, leather, and snake-skin! Congratulate Lisa by following her Polyvore profile: @fantasy-closet.