Fall Into Pantone

Hat: Nordstrom| Sunnies: Forever 21| Scarf: Nordstrom| Vest: Coldwater Creek| Dress: Rachel Roy| Socks: Nordstrom Rack

Riding boots: Unisa| Gloves: Vintage, thrifted| Wood watch: c/o JORD| Handbag: Michael Kors

It’s that time again- I am back with the Blogging Beauties of Unitedly Plus, featuring our very first post of Fall 2016! This post is all about a play on color, namely the Fall 2016 colors forecast by Pantone. 
I actually wore and shot this look a few weeks back, totally unaware that I was rocking Pantone’s ‘Potter’s Clay’ by way of this over sized vest & matching riding boots. This color reminds me of changing autumn leaves. 
In Fall-like fashion, I added in layers as temperatures can vary greatly…  Exasperatingly hot in the sun versus frigid arctic breeze in the shade- you know how it goes, LOL!
I really liked how this color palette came together, and I got a number of compliments on it at the office. I’ve also worked it with short socks and my silver penny loafers. When it comes to my personal style, I am always switching it up (notice that my scarf was styled in 4 ways), incorporating a number of pieces from my wardrobe. That is what makes getting dressed enjoyable! I never follow a set of rules, so-called trends that I MUST have per so and so, or any other nonsense. I simply wear what I like, and what I feel best in ;)
*Don’t forget to check out Sheena of I am She Global (Instagram) and Sahily of Pretty in Pigment (Instagram) today to see what Pantone color they're rocking!
#UNITEDLYPlus a blogger collaboration between Sahily of Pretty in Pigment (Instagram), Sheena of I am She Global (Instagram) and myself. Unitedly Plus is a dedicated place to celebrate every woman, every body type, every clothing size, and every ethnicity.  We embody inclusivity, honoring the unique beauty that each woman possesses. We encourage all women to embrace and love who they are today. We show how personal style can encourage body positivity, foster self-confidence, and provide an outlet for personal self-expression. 
Join us in our mission of uniting women from every part of the world, showcasing individual beauty, and authentic creativity! Use the hashtag #unitedlyplus  to be featured on our social media platforms and follow our journey on Instagram (here) and Facebook (here)!

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.

30PlusStyle: Sangria on the Rocks

As a perfect follow-up to Friday’s post Red Hot for Fall, #30PlusStyle returns today (click here to see our last post) and we’re rocking SANGRIA, Pantone’s top forecast for Fall 2014! Follow us on FB: www.facebook.com/30plusstyle. Oh, and check out my FB page too: https://www.facebook.com/InMyJoi1

Let's be honest, is there anyone who does not enjoy a glass of Sangria?! 

I mean seriously, Sangria when made properly is delicious!!! I especially like mine COLD and sweet ;)

In my opinion, the same description fits when it comes to describing dark red colors. Fall 2014 is officially Code Red. Actually the top 10 fall colors for women and men are just about the same, according to Pantone, the authority on the hues used in paint, fabrics and manufacturing.

Sangria is celebratory, yes, even intoxicating. I’m wearing a darker rendering of Sangria; the manufacturer actually calls it “Wine”.  

I am so pleased with this shift in color palettes for Fall, although attempting to dress Fall-like in 100+ degrees Farenheit is a C H A L L E N G E…

I added accessories that speak to my #vintagelove, and that aid in creating an illusion of Fall-like weather. See more of my vintage ensembles by clicking here.
When it comes to wearing red, whether you choose a little or a lot, plug it into your wardrobe and watch things heat up!

There are so many color combinations to try using dark reds, I will share a few of my favorites here on the blog. Follow me to be sure you don't miss a post! Please do share, are you excited about the shift in reds for Fall?

Check out all the #30PlusStyle Babes in SANGRIA today:
www.mode-plus.com
www.grownandcurvywoman.com
www.prettypluspep.blogspot.com
www.pumpsandstudz.blogspot.com
www.thejenesaisquoi.blogspot.com

We're looking for guest bloggers to join us for a future #30plusstyle post. If you're interested, contact us at 30plusstylecollab@gmail.com. Please be sure to include your blog's URL!

Hat: Vintage
Dress: boohoo PLUS
Gloves: Vintage (also worn here)
Clutch: Vintage
Shoes: Nine West

Thank you very much for stopping by and commenting below =)

Interview Attire: Idea Number 1

After months of searching and applying for positions, you finally land an in-person interview! While you are elated at the prospect, herein begins the big debate: "What Should I Wear?" Everyone usually opts for a navy blue or black suit. Let's just say that you don't have a suit, or perhaps you don't like wearing suits. Guess what? There are other options!

It may be possible to select pieces from your current wardrobe that will provide a business appropriate look. 

I invite you to take a step outside of the "normal" interview attire box with me. 

I've worked in corporate America for almost two decades (Yep, I started working as an infant :-). Over the years, through three Fortune 500 companies, I have observed interview attire of every sort. I am not a traditional dresser, so it is not surprising that traditional attire rarely impresses me. I am impressed when I see someone who manages to show a glimmer of authenticity (the person that they truly are), yet still looks professional and polished.

Idea Number 1 features uncommonly considered neutral colors, grey and eggplant purple. I inserted hints of the authentic me by choosing: grey (not cream) pearls, jeweled earrings, a jeweled bracelet, and patterned tights.

Instead of purchasing a new grey blouse, I opted for a short dress, and wore it as a blouse. I added a full silk skirt, and peep toe pumps. In some places, showing your toes on an interview is an automatic "No", so to be safe I wore opaque tights.

For outerwear I opted for a classic pinstripe coat and grey gloves. 

Keep in mind that your outerwear selection does matter, as it may be the first thing your interviewer sees. 

First impressions are usually lasting impressions.

That wraps up today's post. What are your thoughts? What interview attire do you prefer?

Coat- Vintage Christian Dior, also worn here

Jewelry- Assorted

Top- Komarov Dress

Silk Skirt- Kate Hill

Tights- Hue

Shoes- Anne Klein

Handbag- Michael Kors, also worn here

The Roaring 20's

Happy Friday!

Today’s post takes place at a very busy transit station in Los Angeles. 

My husband thought that it would provide the perfect backdrop for this vintage outfit. 

I believe he was right J

 The architecture and design is simply magnificent. 

I wish I could go back in time, and truly experience it in it's 'Hey Day'.

I’ll admit, being photographed in such a busy terminal took me well outside of my comfort zone. 

There were so many people, and I like to avoid a crowd when possible. 

We seemed to draw attention but I'm not sure why. 

Trust me: There were a number of sights that were by far, more interesting and entertaining - LOL! 

I believe that I am learning to mentally disengage from my fears (at least some of them). 

This was a great exercise to test out that theory.

As I have said time and time again, I am smitten by all things vintage. 

For me, that does not mean that an item must be old or used. 

Rather, it means that something about the item represents a style era that resonates with my personality and style. 

We vacationed in Sweden a little over a year ago. 

I spotted this dress inside an Indiska Shop in Old Town Stockholm.

 What a fabulous, eclectic place it was! 

It reminds me of the roaring 20’s with it's delicate and feminine feel.

This time around I paired it with a vintage feather hat, and a vintage cashmere overcoat - both already in my collection. 

The air has been somewhat cool the past few days, which affords me wonderful opportunities to dabble in my winter stash. 

After all, I am a gal from the Midwest J

Hat: Vintage, thrifted

Earrings: India, gifted

Statement Necklace: Nordstrom

Dress: Indiska

Gloves: Vintage, thrifted

Clutch: 'The Block'; Vintage, thrifted (worn here)

Jeweled Heels: Kelly & Katie

Cashmere Overcoat: Vintage, thrifted

Have a great weekend and thanks for stopping by!

Scuba Meets Vibrant Graphic Print

The weather has been unseasonably mild here in Southern California. It's hard to fathom that we are nearing the end of January.

Today's post features an outfit that's perfect for a mild evening/night out. 

Of course, being the lover of vintage that I am, I "needed" to wear my elbow length vintage gloves. 
No, but seriously, they are a nice alternative for milder temperatures when going sleeveless. 
If temps are cooler, a shirt can be worn underneath and tights along with boots.

The dress is easily transitioned to the cooler night air with a moto jacket.

 I really like my crochet collar necklace, as it dresses up the neckline. 
For a more casual look, I remove the necklace, gloves, heels, clutch, and moto jacket. 
Instead, I pair it with a black sweater, ballet flats, and a handbag. 

 The colors and the print in the skirt of this dress are very vibrant. I wanted them to be the main focal point. 
To accomplish that, I kept all accompanying colors dark. 

Jewelry: Nordstrom Rack (For those that follow me on IG, you know that I scored the earrings for $1.00 USD!)

Dress: Just Taylor

Leather Gloves: Vintage, thrifted (similar worn here)

Faux Leather Moto Jacket: Jones New York

Booties: Kelsi Dagger (also seen here and here)

Clutch: Vintage, thrifted

Lady in the Blues

Hat: Vintage, thrifted

Sleeveless Peplum: TJMaxx (also seen here)

Chambray shirt: Forever 21 (also seen here)

Jeggings: Forever 21

Leather gloves: Thrifted

Clutch: Vintage, thrifted

Booties: Mia (also seen here and here)

Sequins Dress & Vintage Pinstripe Christian Dior Coat

Can you believe it is Wednesday already? I can, and I am happily rooting for the next two days to past by very quickly! 

Today's post features pictures I took over the weekend while on vacation. 

My outfit has an 'all black everything' theme, with the EXCEPTION of this fabulous vintage Christian Dior coat! This coat was one of those finds in the thrift store (for all my thrifty fashionistas) where you feel like music starts playing in a loud melodious tone, a bright spotlight shines on the item, and it seems to have been waiting just for you. You try to contain your excitement as you speedily walk toward it before anyone else takes a grab at it.

This coat, I mean, OH MY! Beautiful cream dyed wool with silver pinstripes, beaded buttons, and quarter length sleeves! I could not ask for anything more. It was originally marked for $20 (gasp), but being the nifty thrifty gal that I am, I insisted to the salesman that the coat was over priced. Did I fail to mention it is by Christian Dior from Saks Fifth Avenue?! The salesman fell for my routine, and marked the coat down to $9.00!!!! I pretended to reluctantly go along, repeatedly saying how much I didn't need it, just in case he was willing to go down even further on the price. 

But alas he didn't budge, so I nabbed it for the FABULOUS price of: $9.00 USD!! Whoo hoo!! 

Can you tell how much I love the coat? I forgot to take it off so that you could see the full detail of the dress! Tsk, tsk...

Here's the roundup:

Earrings: Vintage, thrifted

Beaded Necklace: TJMaxx (also seen here)

Sequins Dress: August Silk, thrifted

Coat: Vintage Christian Dior, thrifted

Riding Boots: Ciao Bella

Leather Purse: Vintage, thrifted

Gloves: Victoria's Secret, online (at least 5 years ago)