A Summer Wedding

Dress: c/o HERE| Necklace: HERE| Suede sandals: Jeffrey Campbell, old| Floral clutch: TJMAXX

Hey Loves! I'm not sure if you remember, but I had been searching high and low for a dress to wear to the wedding of a close friend. I had almost given up and retreated to wear something that I already have in my wardrobe but in the very last hour I finally found the perfect stitch at Finery London  💖
Not only is the bold yellow color stunning, but the cut and fit was totally complimentary on my frame. As soon as it arrived and I tried it on I knew that this was the ONE! Notice the updated twist on the cold shoulder trend? Classic yet trendy -Simply perfection in every way 😍
I got a few pictures of my entire look at the wedding on my cell phone, my apologies for the photo quality and limited views👀
I received so many compliments on this beauty that I just had to share it with you. 
I hope you're having an amazing weekend!
XO

Charmeuse in the City

Pink statement necklace: J Crew, similar HERE| Floral kimono/cami/pants: c/o HERE, HERE, HERE

Handbag: ZARA| Gold sandals: Old, similar HERE + another option HERE

Today’s look features the most comfortable coordinates that I have ever worn. This three-piece trio (charmeuse kimono, camisole, and wide leg lounge pants) packs a floral punch- laced with lush greens, gold, and a glimmer of pink. I wore it to the office (of course- as it is my style playground for just about everything😄) and out to dinner by the beach. In both instances, I felt like I had just stepped out of a high fashion couture shop, yet the pieces were as cool and comfortable as a silk pair of pajamas. I have a host of ideas of how I’d like to mix & match this trio, I can’t wait to live them out in real life.

This look is from one of my favorite plus size brands: ELVI. Every season their designs wow me- seriously, I am already considering their Fall line with great anticipation!  When my orders arrive (shipping is a breeze BTW), the fit is fantastic, quality superb, and the craftsmanship on point. I’ve shopped with them directly through their site, but they are also available online at Nordstrom (a great way to rack up points and get a Nordie's Note😉) + ASOS Curve.

This lush watercolor print is Asian-inspired, exemplifying vintage elegance and chic ease. Notice the golden lace insets near the hem of the pants? A perfect accent to the gold rope belt!

Until next time Loves,

Xx

In Full Bloom

Flower crown: DIY project| Dress: c/o HERE| Belt: Ralph Lauren, old| Booties: Similar HERE

We're almost there Babes: FRI-YAY is just over the horizon!!! Although this was a short work week for me, I am still anticipating the weekend. Do you have anything special planned? What about me? Well, I may hit a festival or two plus make my normal retail stops, but I'm also carving out time to do absolutely nothing - LOL!

The weather has been so inconsistent, I have no idea whether it will be hot or chilly. I guess I should check the forecast...I mean can it just be summer already?!
Switching gears: I shared on the blog last week that I had exciting plans that I couldn't fully divulge until the brand's designated time. If you follow me on Instagram you already know what they were, but in case you don't use social media I wanted to make sure that I kept you in the loop 😉
I traveled for a few days with Charlotte Russe to host kick-offs at two new 💥exclusively💥 plus size stores!!! Our schedule was packed and I was wore out- but I had such a good time!!! As soon as I get my photos together and a few from the professional photographers - I'll share them with you! In the meantime, if you're in Grand Rapids, Michigan or St. Cloud, Minnesota check out Charlotte Russe Plus!

Until next time,
Xx

Festival Fashion with Torrid | Part 2

Flower crown: c/o HERE| Denim vest: c/o HERE| White maxi dress: c/o HERE

Today's style story marks the final installment of a two part series featuring festival fashion with TORRID.
See Part 1 HERE.
Over the weekend we were enamored with festival style inspiration via the grand kick-off of the ever anticipated annual phenomenon COACHELLA!!! Although Beyonce did not perform as previously planned, festivities took off w/o a visible glitch, including what we're all most interested in↠ a great variety of style inspiration ★☆★☆✰
My favorite thing about festival season is most definitely the FASHION. It has amazingly become an eagerly awaited part of our yearly fashion calendar, along with resort and or cruise fashion collections. 
Linda Chang, vice president (and the owner's daughter) for retail and store operations at Forever 21 said: “Festival has become one of our most important seasons..it’s anticipated by our customer. Starting in March, they come in specifically asking for a festival look.”
Yes, word on the street is festival fashion has taken over the market and guess what: I'm not mad about it 😁
My style strategy for festival themed fashion is to utilize mix and match pieces that can easily be incorporated into other facets of my life- or should I say- 'style life' 😎 After all, who wants to be stuck with clothing that they have no desire to wear anywhere else or until the following year?!
I'm after bohemian flow at it's finest, classic pieces with embroidered details, tiers, a hint of flowers, a tassel or two for good measure,a touch of lace where possible, and of course an edge of fringe to finish it off.
Do share Babes, which look was your favorite (see look 1 HERE)?
Until next time,
Xx

Bohemian Chic

If you follow me on Instagram, you recently saw glimpses from my wonderful relaxing vacation in Mexico. My husband and I stayed at a fabulous adults only ocean-side resort, in a quiet part of the city. I spent most days basking out in the sun, eating and drinking to my heart’s content. Despite my mega relaxed frame of mind, I did manage to get a few shots of several resort style ensembles. Now whether or not each look will actually make it to the blog is a whole other story…and of course remains to be seen-LOL!

 

Today’s post features a look that I wore to breakfast one morning, and on a leisurely stroll throughout the resort grounds. When it comes to resort style, a maxi dress truly is a no brainer. It’s easily packed, highly versatile, and simply styled.

To be honest, as I believe I have mentioned before, maxi dresses are not my favorite style of dress. In fact, for some time I shied away from wearing them altogether. Generally speaking, I do not find maxi numbers to be flattering on my frame. Despite the current banter of ‘wear whatever’ – that is not and never will be my personal style mantra. I like to wear items that look good to me (personally), and in turn make me feel good. That being said, there are several maxi dresses and or skirts that have made their way into my heart and wardrobe. See examples here, here, and here. This dress won me over because of its captivating shade of hot pink, and fantastic flow of the fabric.

For me, the key to wearing a plus size maxi dress is the cut and flow. I like the way this one cuts in around my waist area, and then gently flows outward. The fabric although beautiful is a bit thin for my taste - wearing shape wear underneath provided a smooth silhouette.

 

My floral headband is a product of one of the easiest DIYs that I’ve ever done. I cut the flowers off of some old stems from Pier One, then used a hot glue gun to glue them to a plain black elastic headband, about 1 inch apart and wa-lah, bohemian chic done the easy way!

Floral headband: DIY (also worn here)| Necklace: Nordstrom| Dress: Cynthia Rowley| Clutch: Vintage

Style Evolution

Through the lens of this blog, I have the ability to watch from the sidelines as my personal style evolves over time.
Have you noticed that your personal style has evolved over the years? Some outlets have identified this process as a 'style evolution'.

At times our personal style may evolve because we literally physically outgrow clothing that we have had for years – and in turn we found ourselves in the exhilarating space of purchasing a new wardrobe, piece by piece. In other instances, personal style may begin to evolve as a result of mentally outgrowing one’s current wardrobe. As we learn and grow, previous style preferences may no longer seem to represent the woman that we are today.

Case in point: Some of my previous go to pieces have been relegated to my recurring “Give Away” pile…I can still fit them, they’re in great shape, and they are still in style- yet…I just don’t seem to want to wear them anymore!  This is evidenced by the fact that I have not worn them during the past 6 months or in some cases, longer ;(

Whatever the reason, a style evolution allows for a fresh perspective and a rejuvenated wardrobe.

Until next time Style Lovers!

Sunnies: TopShop| Vest: BCBG MAX AZRIA| Floral top (worn here): Nordstrom| Waxed denim (worn here & here): NYDJ| Belt: Banana Republic| Fringe booties: Marshalls| Clutch: F21

Autumn Dreams

As temperatures soar into the 100's, it is so hard to grasp that the Fall season is upon us! SoCal basically has two seasons: Spring and Summer.

Nevertheless, being the Midwest gal that I am and always will be, at times I long for breezy Fall days, drifting leaves, and going to my favorite cider mill.

Not to be mistaken: I have come to appreciate living in mild temperatures all year around, and the natural beauty that is California. Just look up,  you’ll see beautiful blue skies 90% of the time, and palm trees swaying gently in the wind.

Nonetheless, having four seasons, when each are truly in balance versus extreme (hat or cold) is a real treat. One of my favorite things about Fall is FALL FASHION! Who can resist the fantastic textures, colors, layering effects, snuggly scarves, boots and so on?!
I longingly looked in my wardrobe last night, at a recent vintage score (a coat that is just so ME), and wished for cooler temperatures so that I could wear it properly.

Perhaps I need to take another trip, to ensure that I stay in sync with my Midwestern roots :) 
Oh, and better yet, so that I can fully bask in the glory of Fall fashion!

Until next time Loves,
X

Sunnies: Forever 21|Necklace: Sponsored from Rocksbox| Dress: Burlington Coat Factory| Suede bag: Vintage| Pumps: Victoria’s Secret

Wall of Flowers: Casual Stroll

Welcome back! Today's look is mega casual, and perfect for running errands and or an evening out and about.

I mixed prints in a subtle way by adding a pair of floral print sunglasses that I scored at TJMAXX.

Since I knew I'd be walking a considerable amount, I wore a comfy pair of sandals, complete with a fun gold bow embellishment. I prefer thong sandals over any other style of shoe. My feet can be a tad fussy, they feel most comfortable with the least amount of confinement possible.

I don't consider my feet to be "pretty", but I roll with what I have and keep them well manicured.

These red jeans are one of my favorites; I've styled them on this blog in other ways here, and here. Also I've worn this floral crop top as a beach cover-up here.

Thanks for joining me, have a wonderful day!

Sunnies: TJMaxx
Crop top: Nordstrom (also worn here)
Skinny Jeans: NYDJs (also worn here and here)
Sandals: Ross
Handbag: Brahmin

Thrift Store Score: Flowers in the Dark

Hello style lovers! 

Not only is it hard to believe that Monday has rolled around again, but even more so that today actually marks the last day of June! Where has the time gone? 

Nonetheless July means that summer is indeed in full force and that there are many good times just ahead =)

Today's #thriftstorescore highlights a vintage dress that I nabbed for 7 bucks and a quarter ($7.25 USD). 

Would you believe that I deliberated on paying that price?! 

Yep, that's right, you read here from Confessions of a Bargain Shopper Gone Rogue!

Not only is this dress a cutie with it's rich floral print, but I also appreciate anything that gives me an excuse to pull out my mustard colored classic Coach handbag! Isn't the pigment the absolute best version of mustard (see 'Cousin It' photo above)?

I'm glad I cast aside my apprehensions and made this purchase =) This time around I paired this vintage number with textured socks and my red Baby Jane's; It was such a fun fit to wear!

Thank YOU for stopping by! Please feel free to comment and have a wonderful day!

Until next time,

Joi

Heart shaped sunnies: Nordstrom

Dress: Vintage, thrifted

Handbag: Coach (worn here)

Textured socks: Nordstrom

Baby Jane shoes: Nine West (worn here)

Other #ThriftStoreScore posts can be found here, here, and here.

Mad Men Inspired

Doesn't this dress scream out, "Mad Men?!

Side note: I'm trying to hold in my laughter in the photo below as my hubby suggests how I should pose-LOL!

Back to Mad Men: in case you are not familiar, “Mad Men” is a period drama series based here in the United States. It is set during the 1960s. One character in particular has a style mantra that suits my fancy:  gorgeous, curvy Joan (Christina Hendricks). Joan’s style is FANTASTIC to me and I so wish that I could step through the TV screen and raid her wardrobe department!

 When I spotted this dress at Nordstrom and tried it on, I simply could not leave the store without it. My husband says that he is glad that I made that decision, because this dress is now one of his favorites ;)

After purchasing a new piece, the ever imminent question arises: ‘What will I wear with it?’ Fortunately, I had this fun vintage veiled cocktail hat, matching vintage earrings and strappy sandals in my stash.

I am quite pleased with how it all came together!  
I’d love to hear from you: Are you inspired by fashion worn in period pieces?

Vintage hat: Thrifted

Sunnies: Nordstrom

Earrings: Vintage, thrifted

Dress: Ivy & Blue for Maggy Boutique (Nordstrom)

Sandals: Via Spiga

In other news, I am super excited about a post coming up later on this week! I stepped completely outside of my comfort zone, and I hope that it will inspire you to love the skin you’re in ;)
Stay tuned & thanks for stopping by!
Xx