Friday Favorites

created by theclosetbychristie on Polyvore

Hi, friends! Happy Friday! I can't believe this month is over already. Where does the time go? It's all the more reason to seize the day! Does anyone have big plans for the weekend?

one // two // three // four // five

1- Express Silver Textured Metallic D'orsay Flat, $40

Who doesn't love a good flat? I've been loving the d'orsay two-piece style flat for a while now, but these metallic ones are truly fabulous.

2- Chicwish Bowknot Pleated Midi Skirt in Tan, $39 *on sale

So it's no secret that I love bows and midi skirts. Finding two in one? It's a real treasure!

3- Express Short Tiered Mixed Rhinestone Necklace, $40

I love everything about statement necklaces! They can take an already fabulous look to the next level or dress up a plain tee. I wear mostly gold, but I have been wanting to switch it up and get a silver one. This just might be it!

4- Express Snake Crossbody Bag, $50

Love, love, love! I'm obsessed with everything about this bag. The neutral color blocking is so chic and the pop of snakeskin is absolutely gorgeous. I loved this one so much that I ordered it online!

5- American Eagle Hooded Surplus Jacket, $90

I've been wanting to add one of these grungy olive jackets to my ever changing closet. This ones pretty cute, huh?

What are your favorites of the moment?

How To Style An Oversized Blazer Office Look

Blazers are a long-time favorite piece of mine! There is nothing else that can instantly transform a stylish piece into a professional look and turn a casual weekend look into the epitome of chic. It makes for a flawless transition piece!

What's even better than a blazer? An oversize blazer! It's big. It's roomy. It's so comfortable! But this can be a little bit of a tricky trend, especially when styling it for the office. 

Here's a few tips to get it right every time!

1- It's all about lengths and proportions.

The variance in proportions and lengths will make for a really interesting and unique look! This includes high-waisted skirts or pants and long or dainty accessories. The play on lengths and sizes just adds a sense of balance and will make your blazer look less out of place. 

For my look, I chose a high-waisted skirt, dainty necklaces, and a clutch with a long chain strap.

 

2- Add some feminine details.

I know I always say this, but it's really true! An oversized, or boyfriend, blazer can seem masculine. It's fun to take that and pair it with edgy elements- like ripped jeans or studded pumps- for the weekend. But for your 9 to 5, it's definitely important to keep it classy. Feminine details can be anything from ruffles and lace to color palette- like blush, nude, or mint.

For my look, I selected a ruffled skirt with an abstract floral print.

3- Less is more.

Keep your look simple! No need to go crazy with mixing colors, patterns, or textures. Try to stick with a basic color palette consisting of two or three colors and a few accessories.

For my look, I went with a classic neutral color palette of black, white, and grey with a pop of mint.

THE LOOK

NY&Co Floral Ruffle Skirt (similar: Express High Waist Studio Skirt)  //  Express 24 Inch Studio Stretch Notch Collar Blazer  //  Express Leather Detail Tee (similar: Express Lace Shoulder V-Neck Tee)  //  Movado Bold Luxe Chronograph c/o Movado  //  kate spade new york 'one in a million' initial necklace  //  Apt 9 Initial Bar Necklace *gift  //  Mint Envelope Clutch *gift (similar: J.Crew Factory Envelope Clutch)  //  Metallic Snakeskin Pumps (similar: Banana Republic Makayla Mid-Heel Pump)

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Linking up with these fabulous ladies!

Pumps and Pushups //  The Pleated Poppy // My Girlish Whims 

Because Shanna Said So // Style Elixir // I do deClaire

 Get Your Pretty On // Classy Yet Trendy  //  Lisa a la Mode

 Sun Fun Fashion  //  Mix & Match Fashion  //  Shopping My Closet

What's your favorite way to style an oversized blazer?

Now Trending: Snakeskin Accessories

created by theclosetbychristie on Polyvore

Snakeskin is a trend that seems to be turning into the new neutral. This season the luxe trend is taking over accessories, from bags to shoes- and even sunglasses! I love it because it adds a really cool texture to any look and it's versatile; it can be either edgy or glam.

When styling this trend, keep in mind that less is more! A little pop of snakeskin can take an already fab look to the next level, but too much can send you straight into the 'worst dressed' category.

Here are my top picks:

created by theclosetbychristie on Polyvore

one // two // three // four // five // six

one- express snake crossbody bag, $50

two- express snakeskin print pointed toe flats, $40

three- daisey fuentes snakeskin rectangle sunglasses, $22
four- banana republic averie ghillie bootie in sand, $168
five- vince camuto shimmery snakeskin belt, $30

six- banana republic factory faux snakeskin tote, $65

Are you loving the snakeskin trend as much as I am? What's your favorite way to style it?

3 Easy Steps for Styling a Scarf for the Office

Scarves are a winter staple! But you don't need me to tell you that. I don't know one person that doesn't wear a scarf at this time of year; simply because it's the practical thing to do. We love to have fun with fashion but the truth is, it serves a purpose- to protect us from the elements and to communicate who we are to the world. But what happens when we get creative with fashion? Style happens!

A scarf can give your look a fabulous, wintery vibe. It can also turn a casual look into a stylish one! But who said it can't dress up a look? Or, perhaps, become part of your office wardrobe?

 

So, let's get down to it then. How can we style a scarf for the office without looking casual?
Here's 3 easy steps to get it right every time!

1- Material Girl

That's right, consider the material and silhouette of your scarf. The best scarf to use for an office look is made of either silk or a luxe cashmere. The pattern plays a role here, too. My scarf is soft, but certainly not the finest material. It's the chevron pattern and black and gold colors that give it that look. The fancy tassels help, too!

You'll also want to choose a long, flowy scarf. This way, there are about a million different ways you can wrap it. Trust me- it will make more sense when you read Step #2!

2- Belt It
By adding a cute belt over the scarf, it gives it that gorgeous drapey look. It can even blend into your look, as if it's part of the shirt. It also makes it super obvious that it's part of your look. Otherwise, it can look like you're about to go outside!
 
3- Femme It Up
Add feminine elements to your look! For my look, I chose a bow belt and a lace skirt. The ankle booties also work because they have a little heel.

My favorite part about this look is it's versatility! You can flaunt it mid-week during your 9 to 5 and then wear it to a coffee date over the weekend.

THE LOOK

Apt 9 Turtleneck Top (Similar: Sonoma Essential Turtleneck)  // LC Lauren Conrad Lace Skirt // Jennifer Lopez Gold Glitter Ankle Booties  //  Simply Vera Wang Cable Knit Tights  // White House Black Market Elongated Bow Belt (similar: Mossimo Bow Belt) // Walgreen's Chevron Scarf (similar: Croft & Barrow Silk Paisley Scarf, Croft & Barrow Softer Than Cashmere? Houndstooth Scarf, or Target Ombre Ruffle Scarf)

Linking up with these fabulous ladies!

Pumps and Pushups //  The Pleated Poppy // My Girlish Whims 

Because Shanna Said So // Style Elixir 

 Get Your Pretty On // Classy Yet Trendy

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Today is an exciting day! I'm co-hosting The Oh, Hey Girl! Link-Up by Pumps & Push-Ups! 

Join in on the fun below and be sure to check out their site, too.

An InLinkz Link-up

Girl on the Go: From Office Chic to After Hours

If you're a working girl-on-the-go, then you get it! Just because the clock reads 5 o'clock, it doesn't mean that you stop. Maybe you're grabbing a drink with a friend, running errands, or heading to a casual networking event. Or perhaps you're attending a fabulous event! Whatever the plan is, if you work in the big city or commute- like me!- it isn't always possible to change into a more appropriate outfit. That pushes us to be creative! It's possible to transition a look from office chic to after hours. And sometimes, it's as simple as removing or replacing just one piece.

One of my absolute favorite work pieces is the blazer. It can transform any work look, no matter how daring, into a completely professional outfit. But these beauties aren't reserved just for the office. I love pairing a blazer with a pair of dark wash jeans for a super chic, stylish weekend look. 

Express and Banana Republic are two of my favorite stores- and two of the best places to find beautiful, quality work wear. Both stores can be pretty expensive, especially when it comes to blazers, but it's definitely worth it because of the quality. I try to catch them when there's a big sale. That way you get the best of both worlds- quality and semi budget friendly!

This blazer- from Banana Republic- is fabulous because of the detailing! The houndstooth pattern is very prepster-chic, which is very me 'to a t.' The big, gold buttons give it a very luxe look. Although it was probably somewhere in the $100-$150 range, I bought it last year on clearance for a pretty good price. The beauty of online shopping is that you can typically get better deals than in the store. Because the clothing is shipped from the warehouse, they usually have a better selection of sizes even when it gets down to a fairly low price.

The work day is over and now it's time to dash off into the evening! So, how can we transition this look so it's appropriate for an evening activity? Simply remove the blazer!

This is one of the simplest day to night transitions because the only difference is the blazer. It works for almost any occasion because it's fancy enough for an event, it's modest enough for a networking event, and the lace top makes it sassy enough for a social outing or date.

Now, let's stop for a minute to discuss this midi skirt! Can I just say I love it? I ordered it from Express during their big 50% off sale recently. The chic black and white color palette makes it versatile for styling and wearable for any season. And it even has pockets!

THE LOOK

Banana Republic Houndstooth Blazer (similar: J.Crew Factory and The Limited) // Express Baroque Lace Top (similar: Express Baroque Lace Tank) // Express Striped Midi Skirt // White House Black Market Elongated Bow Belt (similar: Express Bow Skinny Belt) // Merona Natasha Mid-Heel Pump // Simply Vera Wang Opaque Tights // Old Navy Statement Necklace (Similar: Target) // Movado Bold Luxe Chronograph c/o Movado

What's your favorite way to mix-up your work wear or transition from day to night?

Linking up with my girl today! Join us!

Friday Favorites

Created on Polyvore by theclosetbychristie

Happy Friday, friends! I hope you all made it through the work week with zero casualties. Now as we start our weekends, it's time for Friday Favorites!  

What are your favorites of the moment? Here's mine!

1- Valentino Gold Metallic Patent Leather Flats, $645

This is definitely a lust item! Maybe one day I'll be able to afford a pair of these but for now, Friday Favorites it is! I'm obsessed with pointed toe flats and this pair is extra luxe because of the metallic gold color. Fabulous!

2- Marc Jacobs Fur Pom Pom Beanie, $39

How cute are these? The fur pom pom beanie has been a must-have winter accessory for this season. I really love this one because of the color!

3- BCBGMAXAZRIA Harlow Sequined Envelope Clutch, $98

Sparkle sparkle! This gorgeous clutch is so fancy! I love that it looks like a disco ball. This is fantastic for evening wear, but it would also be great to dress up a simple tee. Trust me if I were fortunate enough to have this beautiful thing in my closet, I would definitely find plenty of use for it!

4- Netflix, $7.99/month

I recently signed up for Netflix and omg, it has been amazing! In the past, I signed up to watch Revenge but didn't see much else on there so I canceled. I chose the online streaming option again this time and so far, there has been plenty to watch. It also helps that I have that Chromecast to cast the movies/tv shows onto my TV!

5- Choies Black Bowknot High-Waisted Skirt, $33

Ah, can you believe this beauty is only $33? I want need it! Stay tuned- you could see me wearing this soon. I do have a weakness for midi skirts!

Valentino Gold Metallic Patent Leather Flats // Marc Jacobs Fur Pom Pom Beanie // BCBG MAXAZRIA Harlow Sequined Envelope Clutch // Netflix  // Choies Black Bowknot High-Waisted Skirt

Dominique Cohen for Miss Me: Fleur de Lis Earrings

One of my favorite things about fashion is that it allows you to feel completely fabulous! Running around town in clothing adorned with sparkles, glitter, gems, and other embellishments is a sure-fire way to feel that way. That's why I love the Miss Me brand! They specialize in fine quality denim; each pair of jeans is dazzled in some sort of sparkly embellishment, typically on the back pockets.

On Christmas Eve, I was thrilled to find a big box on my porch. It was a holiday gift from my friends at Miss Me! They very kindly gave me a pair of black embellished jeans (which I still need to get hemmed because I'm a shorty!) and a pair of fleur de lis drop earrings, both from their holiday limited edition Dominique Cohen line. I'll feature a look with the jeans soon but for now, I've been obsessively wearing these earrings daily!

QUALITY

I'm the type of gal that really values quality in a product and these Miss Me earrings don't disappoint. Even the post on these earrings is thicker than the average piece of costume jewelry. This makes it nice and sturdy! I mostly wear gold jewelry, so I love that these are gold and crystal because I can wear them with anything.

COST

They were listed on the website at $85, which is pretty pricey for me. But as I said the quality is fantastic and since they're very versatile, I think it's worth the splurge.

LOVE THEM, TOO?

The collection was limited edition so it's no longer available on the Miss Me site, but it can still be found on Dominique Cohen's website: fleur de lis drop earrings.  Keep checking back on Miss Me's site because they have pretty awesome jewelry, too! Here's a few other must-have earrings that match the drop style:

Anthropologie Sonabia Drops // Anthropologie Rainbow Moonstone Earrings // Anthropologie Aniara Drops // Baublebar Bubble Drops // Baublebar Tulip Tassel Drops // Charming Charlie Foil Drops

THE REST OF MY LOOK

Jennifer Lopez Metallic Gold Foil Tee (similar) // LC Lauren Conrad Tulle Mini Skirt // Hanes Silk Reflections Opaque Tights // Express Chunky Gold Chain Link Necklace (similar) // Movado Bold Chronograph in Gold c/o Movado // Victoria's Secret Sparkly Silver Envelope Clutch (similar)

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Linking up with these fabulous ladies!

Pumps and Pushups //  The Pleated Poppy // My Girlish Whims 

Because Shanna Said So // Style Elixir 

 Get Your Pretty On // Classy Yet Trendy

What You Didn't Know About Buffalo Check- & How to Dress It Up!

Buffalo check has been all over the racks this season! Uh, buffalo... what? I know, it's kind of a weird term but the truth is- this pattern is unlike any other! Plaid has overlaying stripes that are varying in size, while gingham is overlaying stripes of the same size. What makes buffalo check unique is: it typically comes in red and black on a flannel fabric and it's a larger scale print. So basically, it's like putting a big magnifying glass up to a gingham top.

Other than size, gingham and buffalo check are still quite different. Gingham, in my opinion, has a preppy, upscale style. Buffalo check, on the other hand, is a little more casual and laid back. Think... lumber jack! But just like anything, there are ways to dress up buffalo check so it doesn't look like you're trying to become one with the wilderness. Keep reading for some tips!

MY LOOK

Abercrombie Buffalo Check Top (similar) // Simply Vera Wang Banded Hi-Low Skirt (similar) // White House Black Market Large Flower Ribbon Belt (similar) // Elle Color Block Bow Bag (similar) // Julie Vos Crystal Drop Earrings (similar) // Movado Bold Luxe Gold Chronograph // Target Gold Chain Link Necklace // LC Lauren Conrad Chunky-Heel Ankle Boots

4 Must-Know Tips for Dressing Up Buffalo Check-

1- Pair it with a skirt:

It doesn't get any more feminine than a skirt! I find that skirts are super girly and it makes just about anything look a little bit fancier.

2- Glam it up with eye-catching jewelry:

Whether you choose a delicate pendant or a flashy statement necklace, jewelry sure can dress up a look!

3- Add a frilly accessory:

I own a few of these... well, a lot more than a few. I ended up choosing this large flower sash belt to femme up my look! You could also add a bow belt, a glitter bag, or a cute hair accessory- just to name a few.

4- Throw on some heels:

Do I have to say it? Heels are a fantastic way to dress up any look! If you want your style to fall somewhere in between casual and dressy, try a boot with a chunky heel.

 

 

Just like humans, dogs also like to keep up with the current trends! When I saw this adorable buffalo check hoodie at Petsmart, I just had to get it because it matches mine. Paisley really loves this sweatshirt because it's nice and cozy. I love that the buffalo check print is on the hood and the heart, which is surrounded by rhinestones. It's so cute for a little fluff-ball!

PAISLEY'S LOOK
Top Paw Small Red Bow (similar) // Top Paw Buffalo Check Heart Hoodie


Who else has a buffalo check top? How do you style it?

Friday Favorites (Linkup)

Anthropologie Vintage Lipstick Holder // kate spade new york Cedar Street Monday Bag

Nastygal Blue Suede Ankle Boots // Google Chromecast // Cartier Gold Desk Clock

Happy Friday! How was everyone's week? This must have been a more difficult week than usual for everyone since it's the first full week back from the long holiday. I hope everyone had a fabulous holiday break and glad we all made it through the week!

Here's my favorites of the moment!

1- Anthropologie Vintage Lipstick Holder, $38

I'm obsessed with this! Lauren Conrad once said to use your most beautiful clothing and accessories as home decor. Building a fabulous wardrobe is expensive, so why keep it all locked up in a closet when it can be displayed? That's what I love about this lipstick holder! It's totally not a necessity, but it's a great decoration. Plus, it's easy access to your favorite shades!

2- kate spade new york Cedar Street Monday Bag, $148

I love Kate Spade, so naturally I love this gorgeous bag too! I love the envelope style and the bright red color.

3- Nastygal Blue Suede Ankle Boots, $150

I have been really into ankle booties lately. This pair is so unique because at a first glance, it looks black... but they're really a dark blue suede!

4- Google Chromecast, $35 *I got this on Groupon for $25

I finally got one of these earlier in the month and my god- it has been the biggest blessing! It's incredibly useful because you can use it to cast popular apps like Youtube and Netflix to your television. Instead of huddling around a laptop to watch a series on Netflix, you can now comfortably watch it on TV! It's the type of thing that you don't know you need until you have it... and then you can't live without it.

5- Cartier Gold Desk Clock, $20,000

Based on the price alone, this is definitely a dream product for me! It's so gorgeous! There's just something about a desk clock that is so vintage and chic. I actually tried to find a 'for less' version of this and can't find any other one just as beautiful. I guess I'll have to keep dreaming!

Have a great weekend! What are your favorites of the moment?

Now it's your turn! Join our linkup!

Friday Favorites is all about sharing and promoting your favorite things! Whether it's an outfit post, a round-up of new obsessions, or a new DIY project- I want to hear about it. Every Friday I'll post my current favorites and you can link-up to share yours!

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