Laugh Despite the Rain

We've been getting our fair share of rainy days this season, which is technically GREAT considering the fact that we've been in a record break drought for XX amount of years. However on the practical side of things, torrential rain can be a headache, especially when you have to take account factors such as extreme traffic congestion (think sitting in your car 2-3 ours to travel less than 20 miles), mudslides, flooding, and the like... If I don't have to leave my house, I find the rain to be enjoyable, it has such a soothing effect that cannot be duplicated. 

Any who, I decided to get a few shots in of this look, and wouldn't you know it- it started to sprinkle - lightly... There was a damp chill in the air, I simply refused to take my coat off, LOL!
That instance gave me the chance to reflect on how all too often in our lives we have to learn to laugh through the 'rain', even through 'storms'. 

Keeping on laughing Babes, don't let a little 'rain' kill your flame 😉

Until next time,
XO

Coat + gloves: Vintage, options here & here| Blouse: Sold out, similar here| Pleat skirt: Sold out, similar here 
Handbag: Vintage Coach, updated option here| Sheer socks: Nordstrom| Yellow sandals: Old, similar here & here

A Touch of Glamour

Hey Loves! It feels like it has been forever since we've spent some time together, how are you?! I’m doing very well, it feels good to be back!!! Did you miss me?!  I missed you! I won't keep you in suspense; I've been away a few weeks on holiday, in AFRICA!!!! It was the trip of a lifetime; You may have seen a few snippets of it over on my Instagram page. Let me tell you,I took in every single moment- rather than attempt to capture every moment on film-I lived it- I breathed it! It was magnificent!!! Now I am completely refreshed and ready to play… dress up that is! Ha!

Today's style story features my December picks from Kevin Jewelers, a beautiful 14K rose gold and diamond duo. I really like the design, the combination of champagne and white diamonds together <3 
You can save an additional 10% off when shopping online with code JOI564.

REMINDER: Don't miss out on KJs Diamonds, Deals, and Destinations promotion!!! In short, if you spend $299 or more you score a FREE trip to VEGAS; if you spend $2,999 or more you score a FREE trip to HAWAII! 
Please note that this deal is applicable IN-STORE ONLY. Visit your closest store for additional details.  

Now, let’s chat about what I am wearing =) I’ve been dying to pull out this vintage coat scored from a thrift shop in my home state of Michigan last year. Winter-ish temperatures have finally made a stop in Southern California – I feel so excited! For the grand debut, I paired my newbie with this fabulous after 5 style maxi dress. The material of the dress is thin and it does not have a lining- the added warmth from my furbaby was essential! Truth be told, I almost froze to death while trying to get in a few shots w/o my topper, LOL! It is hard to believe that I grew up in waist deep snow!  Any who, I couldn’t miss out on showing you the detail of this beautiful dress, it is so complimentary on generous curves ;) I sized up to allow for the dress to drape in the manner that I desire, but it you prefer a bodycon fit I'd say it is pretty true to size.

Until next time Loves,

XO

Fur coat: Vintage, Similar here| Jewelry: c/o Kevin Jewelers| Dress: c/o GCGME| Sandals: Similar here| Beaded handbag: Old

Gray Matter

“Baby it’s cold outside” or at least that’s how the song goes…LOL! Here in SoCal early mornings and late evenings are cool- but not exactly cold. Nonetheless, if ever there was an ideal time to pull out pre-existing cool weather items (I’m from the Midwest)- this is it! I love layering up in cozy knits, varying textures, and adding touches of furrr : )

This ensemble is ideal for Fall-like days spent at the office, shopping, or catching a meal. I have a basket (literally, from Pier 1) of sweater dresses that wait patiently all year for days just like this. This gray number is neat because it features a cable print + an a-line cut. The two aren’t often designed together, although I’m not entirely sure why not.

Because monochrome styling has been my thing since the beginning of time, I added additional grey matter via a velvet BF style coat (c/o ELVI), a vintage fur collar (detached), leather gloves, and knit knee high socks. For color contrast, I wore cognac boots and a leopard print clutch. Stay warm out there Babes!

Until next time,

XO

Velvet boyfriend coat: Here | Fur collar/scarf: Similar here| Dress: Similar here| Leather riding boots: Similar here| Leopard clutch: Similar here

avant-garde

Sunnies: Marshalls| Coat: Vintage| Two piece coordinates: Vintage Liz Claiborne| Leather gym shoes, similar here and here| Wallet: Kate Spade, similar here

noun \ˌä-ˌvän(t)-ˈgärd, ˌa-; ə-ˈvänt-ˌ; ˌa-ˌvōⁿ-ˈ, ˌa-ˌvȯn(t)-ˈ\

'the advance group in any field, especially in the visual, literary, or musical arts, whose works are characterized chiefly by unorthodox and experimental methods.'

Today's post is in collaboration with Project Sister Act, created by Sheela Goh to showcase examples of how irregardless of age we each display personal style in our own individual way(s)! The theme for this installment is 'avant-garde'.

I'm am siked to collaborate with the following bloggers, by way of Sheela's invitation, each representing different age groups:

• Teens- Eve, theworldaccordingtoeve
• 20's- Chasmine, theglamazonuniverse
• 30's- Joi (ME!)
• 40's- Sheela, sheelawrites
• 50's- Jacqueline, petitesilvervixen

Check out their individual take on avant-garde fashion :) I personally love how each look incorporates layers (perfect for Fall fashion) and their own style personas!

Eve, theworldaccordingtoeve.com

Chasmine, theglamazonuniverse.com

Sheela, sheelagoh.com

Jacqueline, petitesilvervixen.blogspot.co.uk

About my look: 

I purchased this blue print vintage 2 piece set a year or so back. I got it for a great deal, and it was by one of my vintage favs, Liz Claiborne. Yet, I wasn't sure exactly how I wanted to style it. 

Last month I shared on my InstagramStories the unexpected acquisition of these cobalt blue gym shoes (I tend to buy gym shoes about every 10 years), it immediately occurred to me that they needed to be styled with a dress/skirt - like stat, LOL! 

When Sheela reached out to me to participate in this initiative, I took some time to think about what avant-garde style means to me. I thought of the unorthodox, stepping outside of so-called style norms- even my own comfort zone, and incorporating all of those factors with style options that are still authentic to me: vintage pieces + bold color.

Nonetheless, I still wasn't sure exactly what look I wanted to put together. When I have a case of 'style block' (and even when I don't) I head to my trusty Pinterest boards :)  Low and behold, I spotted an image that inspired this look (see here)! Finally an opportunity to wear my vintage set, new gymies, topped off by a fabulous vintage coat! I love how this came together, and I'm looking forward to wearing it again in a modified way.

Please do share, what's your avant-garde style forte?!

Until next time,

XO

Vested Interests

A few weeks ago I mentioned that I had a mini shopping haul over at Forever 21 Plus. Admittedly, I am not a woman that frequents Forever 21, in part due to my age, style aesthetic, and preference for high quality/designer clothing.

With that being said, for some items that I purchase, I understand that my desire is not one for a long lasting 'classic piece'. It may be more so a trendy number, or something that I only desire to wear a few times for various reasons. For items that fall under those categories, fast fashion stops are perfectly suitable, along with thrifting of course! Not to mention, F21 has stepped up its plus size fashion game, like seriously. In addition to the romper that I purchased (blogged here), and the two piece stripe stunner (blogged here), I snagged  two items off of the BOGO rack =) I’ll reference this one as Exhibit A, LOL!

What I love about this vest/Exhibit A in addition to its print is the cut and length. I opted for a larger size so that I can wear a number of things underneath, including a coat if I so desire ;) I’ve worn it a number of ways thusfar, but happily I had a chance to blog this one. Denim on denim never gets old for me, and pairing denim with tan makes for a classic combo.

This look went off well at the office for a casual Friday, plus errands and dinner afterward. Accessories can gear this look in either direction, more casual or not so much. I opted for a dressier approach with a fur trimmed hat & booties.

Note: After wearing this vest several times it has begun to develop a layer of fine lint balls all over. Since the cost for the two items off the BOGO rack (Exhibit B is coming up) was only $14.99 + tax - I am not as disappointed - but still somewhat disappointed. I mean if the fabric is already having issues, what will happen when I wash it? I’m not sure that this vest will make it to next year’s cool weather season, but I will certainly be happy if it does.

Until next time Babes!
XO

Hat: Lord & Taylor| Vest: Forever 21 Plus, size 2XL| Chambray top: Forever 21, size large| Jeans: NYDJs, size 12|Red booties: Aldo

Gray Areas

Fabulous news: I teamed up with SWAK Designs for today’s blog post!!! Check out how their fantastic cardigan can be styled in not one, not two, but yes ----->THREE ways!!!
Stop the press… Isn’t it gorgeous?! When I tried it on after having it freshly pressed, I thought to myself: ‘Where have you been all of my life?!’ To be honest, "The Parker" EXCEEDED my expectations. Its soft texture, glorious flow, added with the fact that it is just short of duster length scores 4 gold stars in my book. SWAK has a variety of styles for the curvy consumer, yes plus size clothing options that are wonderfully affordable for the working class woman. Let’s review each look, starting with my personal favorite first: RED, WHITE, AND GRAY

The Parker Cardigan is the shining star and clearly steals all the thunder.  I snagged the idea of trying out this color combo from an outfit that ‘Dorothy’ of The Golden Girls wore. Do you watch that show?! I have it on DVD, so even when it’s not on Hallmark/Lifetime on cable, I can always pop in a DVD and get my GG fix! Oops, I digress…moving on... This look is great for a night out with your guy or with the gals! I believe accessories make the 'fit', so I added a wool fedora, aviators, and a faux fur collar. Notice that I’m wearing white in the winter! I’ve said time and time again that white is easily worn year round. Granted, I live in a mild climate. It does not snow in the winter, which definitely allows for greater flexibility, which may not be possible in extremely cold climates. However, imagine layering this cardigan with a ankle length coat, and swapping out the sandals for pointy toe booties. Do you see what I see? The possibilities are endless!

Hat: D&Y| Aviators:Fashion District| Faux fur collar: Old (worn here)| Top: Dress to Kill (worn here)| White denim: NYDJs (worn here, here, and here)| Sandals: Tildon

Now let's move on to what I like to call, MODERN GLAMOUR

This look targets monochrome for the win. If you’re unsure about which colors to pair with what, monochrome is a safe bet for simple slayage. This look features multiple shades of gray, which work hand in hand to generate cohesiveness. I want to keep it 100% with my readers, so I’ll let you in on something: This look was actually my least favorite. Why? It reminded me of the extra pounds that have recently joined me and have since become unwanted house guests. I keep offering them options for departure, however they love me so much that they just do not want to leave. I can appreciate their admiration. Nonetheless, they must go! To be completely clear:  Yes, I love my body. I embrace being plus size. However, I prefer to stay within a certain size range so that I can fit ALL items in my wardrobe. Buying a new wardrobe in a different size is not an acceptable option. 
Moving forward, a cardigan is a great way to add coverage and additional volume to body con dresses and skirts (see more plus size cardigan options here). I am definitely in the market for long cardigans in multiple colors!

Sunnies: Nordstrom| Dress:Komarov (also worn here)| Fur collar: Chinchilla (thrifted)| Suede clutch: Vintage| Shoes: Anne Klein (worn here)

Last, but certainly not least, take a look at THE STATE OF GRAY

A look perfect for daily wear: Think running errands, casual day at the office, or even a lunch date. I paired My Parker* with a classic pinstripe button-up, gray denim, and black open toe booties.

 Sunnies: Fashion District| Pinstripe shirt: Jones New York| Statement necklace: Nordstrom| Gray denim: NYDJs| Booties: Chinese Laundry (worn here)| Clutch & gloves: Old

Now that I've chatted non-stop, I’d love to hear from YOU! Which is your favorite look and why?
Until next time Style Lovers,
XO

*The Parker Cardigan worn and referenced above was gifted by SWAK Designs.

I'm a September Baby

“AÑO nuevo, vida nueva” translates: “A new year, a new life.” 

Each time a new calendar year rolls in, many people choose to use it as an opportunity to try to create a fresh start for themselves. Usually the thought is to set new goals with the aspiration to live life somehow differently than one did the previous year.

 I’ve read some criticism on social media concerning this annual process. Truthfully speaking, studies indicate that an overwhelming amount of “New Year Resolutions” are never seen to fruition. A change in date is simply not enough for an individual to work to make momentous changes in their life. The desire to change, yes the drive, has to come from deep within. When you’re truly fed up with something, you generally feel ready to flip things upside down to be where you want to be, and you take steps to do so immediately, no matter what the date. 

In my opinion, self-reflection along with self-examination is beneficial. I'm in a more reflective state of mind each year during my birth month, September (and now that I think of it, also during my wedding anniversary month). I think about how l lived the previous year, what goals I accomplished, what things I wish I would have done differently, and what types of things I would like to accomplish in the future. I even think back on previous years, how I felt at each age. I find that it is important to have consistent, realistic, attainable goals. They give me something to look forward to, and I feel a satisfying sense of accomplishment whenever I reach a goal.

Officially in my mid-thirties, I have entered what I like to think of as ‘Operation 40’. This operation/goal spans several years, and calls for continuous action. To be clear, I created a Pinterest board for it (LOL!); Check out all of my Pinterest boards here. As far as ‘Operation 40’ is concerned, my main objective is to take better care of ME. My body is changing and my organs have to work a little harder than they used to. My goal is to do what I reasonably can to make the inevitable aging process somewhat easier on my body. This includes making the time for weekly facials (my skin is changing, plus I have too much exposure to sun and other pollutants), moisturizing daily, utilizing treatments for eczema and psoriasis, as well as regularly cleansing my internal organs and taking in what will help them work at an optimal state. 

I may from time to time share things concerning 'Operation 40' via the blog or on my social media accounts ;)
Follow me on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter!

Until next time Style Lovers!
Xx

Hat:Borrowed from my husband | Sunnies: LA Fashion District

Fox trim sweater: Vintage | Statement necklace: TJMaxx

Blouse: DKNY | Maxi skirt: BCBGMaxAzria (worn here and here)

Gloves: Victoria's Secret Online | Handbag: Kate Spade (worn here)

Riding boots: Ciao Bella (worn here)

30PlusStyle: LBD Lookbook

The #30PlusStyle Collaboration returns today for it’s final run! In true celebratory fashion, we’re rocking the classic little black dress (a.k.a. LBD)! Please join us in welcoming two Special Guest Bloggers for our last collaborative blog post: Cynthia of www.FlightoftheFatGirl.com and Jennae of www.GreenandGorgeous.net!

I went with a casual spin on the LBD theme. My style recipe includes a flash of sparkle, a hint of shine, trim of fur, and a top of vintage ;)

Coat: Vintage (worn here)

Leather gloves: Victoria’s Secret

Sequin dress: August Silk (worn here)
Statement necklace: Natasha

Leggings: Nicole Miller

Patent leather boots: Penny Loves Kenny (worn here)

Handbag: Vintage

In closing, I must say that today’s post is close to my heart. As I mentioned, this is the final blog post for the #30PlusStyle Collaboration. I’ve been graced with the privilege to work with and learn from an amazing group of women: Georgette, Nefferth, Delilah, Jeniese, and Pepper.  I continue to stand unitedly with them, advertising for the world to note:  Neither age nor size present limitations when it comes to expressing one’s personal style! Each of the #30PlusStyleBloggers have inspired me by their sense of style, and encouraged me to continue to try new things. 

Thank you to everyone that has supported #30PlusStyle over the past few months. I hope that you too will continue to be inspired by these wonderful women, as am I!

www.mode-plus.com
www.prettypluspep.blogspot.com
www.pumpsandstudz.blogspot.com
www.thejenesaisquoi.blogspot.com
www.grownandcurvywoman.com


Until next time Style Lovers,
XO