Cocktail Hour

Jacket: c/o HERE | Red & white bowtie: Borrowed from my Hubby| Sequin joggers: c/o HERE, similar HERE & HERE| Fishnets: OLD 
Patent leather stilettos: Similar HERE| Movie reel novelty bag: SOLD OUT

Another thing that I simply love about this time of year: The fabulous variety of special occasion wear available at practically every retailer, varying from low-end to high-end. Yes Babes, now is the time to shop special occasion wear! Retailers are stocked to the brim with fits and accessories for just about any occasion that you can think of. I always stock up on items that I may want to wear to venues throughout the following year (like weddings, outdoor parties, blogger events, etc), as stockpiles have a tendency to dwindle down to non existent after January. 
Today's look is a perfect alternative for a cocktail themed event. Perhaps you're like me and want to switch it up a bit-  out of the typical LBD, sequin dress, or formal suit routine. This jacket gives me a total tuxedo vibe, with a feminine twist by way of a tie at the waist. The sequin joggers are casual yet playful. Absolutely ❤ them! I added in a bow tie, fishnet stockings, and a novelty bag to seal the deal. 
Note: Although I love the fit and look of these sequin jogging pants, they may not be practical for frequent wear. I noticed that persistent friction causes sequins to get loose and fall off. This was not a total deal breaker for me- yet an important factor to point out 😉
Until next time,
Xx

Gingham For the Win

Sunnies: c/o HERE| Earrings: Old, another option HERE & HERE | Shirt: JCP, similar HERE
Dress: Old, similar HERE & HERE| Shoes: Zara| Handbag: Kate Spade, similar HERE

Hey Babes, I'm back in yet another print toss, this time by way of pinstripes and gingham. I mentioned HERE how simple playing in prints can be when using black & white as a base. 
The base for this look is a classic gingham shirt dress with an a-line skirt. In a somewhat unorthodox way, I layered on an over-sized pinstripe shirt, knotting it at my waist while letting the back of the shirt hang down. I purchased this shirt 3 sizes too big with the sole intention of styling it this way. Since it features side slits, it is easy to knot it in the front while still enjoying length in the back 😉 I've also styled it tied around my waist, worn as a kimono of sorts, and next up I plan to wear it as a shirt dress.
Both pieces pictured here are 100% cotton, classic prints, and 100% versatile. 
I look forward to styling both of them again and again!
Until next time,
XO

Checkmate

As Indian Summer rages on here in Los Angeles, I’ve taken full advantage of the sweltering temperatures by playing in warm weather fashion(s) once again. Take for instance this cotton gingham dress by JNY. Nothing feels cooler than breathable cotton and I have a soft spot for black & white color duos. The cut and fit of this dress is fantastic, and reminds me why I truly appreciate well established brands such as JNY. I’ve been wearing JNY for more than twenty years, and have never been disappointed in the sizing, quality, or workmanship of any of their garments. Yes, JNY a.k.a Jones New York, has a fine longstanding reputation of integrity to their consumers. Side bar: On a cooler day not too long ago, I also wore this dress with my suede fringed jacket, black wool fedora, and silver penny loafers ;) 
-->Gingham CAN be carried over into Fall fashion successfully<--
I scored this dress brand new with tags attached via THREDUP, an online consignment and thrift shop. THREDUP encourages buyers to think of second hand shopping first, and also provides great options for cleaning out your own closet. The Co-Founder and CEO says, “We are transforming the way people think about secondhand, and we have the capacity and the energy and the vision to make that a part of people’s lives for 20, 30, 50 years.” 
THREDUP has a vast variety of sizes available, including a wide assortment of plus size options. I found the selection process to be a bit time consuming, but well worth it when I scored this brand new dress-with tags intact :) For a limited time, THREDUP is offering a 50% off promo code just for YOU! Score 50% off all cocktail dresses as a first time user, up to $50. Browse their selection here, and use code “COCKTAILS50” at checkout ;)

Until next time Babes,
XO

Sunnies: ASOS| Earrings: c/o Rocksbox, get it for free| Dress: c/o THREDUP| Ballet lace-ups: Me Too| Handbag: Coach

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.

For the Tulle of It

Hey Style Lovers! Today's post features yet another way that I have styled my tutu/tulle skirt. I wore this about 3 a few weeks back, and I'm already ready to wear it again! I feel tulle-licious each and every time that I wear my tulle skirt. If I had my way, I'd have more opportunities to wear tulle, as in at least once a month! 

I wear what I LOVE, over and over again. I currently have one tutu (although I have aspirations of making one via the many DIY tutorials available), purchased via etsy almost two years ago. I love it's 'pouf factor', in my mind there are at least 99 ways that it could be styled (see previous looks here, here, and here).

So far I've only worn/styled it four times, so that means that I have about 95+ additional rounds to go, right?! LOL! I just might be on a mission to document each and every single look that I can come up with; Stay tuned!

The thought of tulle skirts ooze femininity in my head, as a result, each time that I've worn this one, I have targeted the feminine angle. I decided to try for 'feminine edge' this go (worn and photographed a few weeks ago), I already had most of the items that I needed on hand. Rocksbox  provided the icing on my cake, as the earrings, statement necklace, and bracelet came courtesy of my membership from them. If you'd like to check out their jewelry styling service for free, visit their site, and use code InMyJoiXOXO at checkout.

So, how'd I do, is this look feminine with edge? I certainly felt edgy and feminine at the same time!

Until next time,
XO

Sunnies: Betsey Johnson (worn here) | Denim jacket: Michael Kors (worn here) | White button-up shirt: Jones New York | Tutu: etsy/Princess Doodle Beans (worn here, here, here) | Cowboy boots: Steve Madden | Rhinestone evening bag: Vintage

Thrift Store Score: Vintage Trench Coat

I recently spent several days in Las Vegas along with family and friends, today's post features a look that I wore out one night. My pictures aren't the best quality, as I hadn't planned on blogging this look initially, but nonetheless here they are :)

My jeans are the product of a DIY project (or actually DIM=do it myself) that was super easy: distressed denim. A more detailed post on that project is to come, including better shots of the finished product ;) The gem in this edition of #ThriftStoreScore is this fabulous vintage coat, I love it.

Ciao Style Lovers, until next time!

Tie: Brooks Brothers

Necklace: Natasha

White shirt: Jones New York

Distressed Jeans: Thrifted & DIM

Shoes: Victoria’s Secret (worn here)

Coat: Vintage, thrifted

Tote: Coach (worn here)

Chocolate Covered Graham Cracker

Have you ever looked at a color combination that you wore and it later reminded you of a particular food? Perhaps it’s because I’m a shameless foodie, but sometimes after I wear something, I suddenly realize that it looks similar to a combination of something edible, LOL! Today’s look reminds me of chocolate covered graham crackers…

This look is perfect for a Fall-esque day. I had planned to wear more shorts this summer, but it just didn’t happen. For the cooler months, I treat shorts just as I do skirts: add tights and push on!

Fur-trimmed Hat: Lord & Taylor| Velvet Blazer: Jones New York| Shorts:Mango (also worn here)| Tights: Lord & Taylor| Mary Jane Shoes: Victoria's Secret

About Truthful Thursdays:
You might remember that back in June I started a new series here on the blog entitled, “Truthful Thursdays”. I created it as a space for me to share more of my authentic self with my readers. Style and fashion is a very small part of who I am as a woman.  Unfortunately, I slacked off in keeping up with “Truthful Thursdays” as a result of a busy schedule. I didn’t carve out the time and energy necessary to sit down and create quality content. Now that the winter months have rolled in, my schedule has settled down somewhat and I plan to get back on track with Truthful Thursdays. Well today is Thursday, and there’s no better time than the present, right?! 

As I’ve mentioned before, I share my style with the intention of inspiring girls and women to confidently OWN whatever body size and or body type they have. Styling options are not limited because of your size, body type, or age. Generally speaking, when one dresses well, and actually likes the way that they look in their clothing, they feel happier as a person. Despite my intentions in blogging my style, I am a ‘private’ individual, one who does not like to open up to ‘strangers’, but rather only those whom have shown themselves to be worthy of trust. This fact causes me to battle within myself: What would I like to share with my audience versus what would I not like to share. However, I realize that for women to truly connect with me, I MUST (as I repeat this to myself out loud) let my guard down even further, and share my feelings. 

Here we go:
So, I’ve been in a reflective state as of late, as to what direction I’d like to go with my style blog. Would I like to talk more about my love of vintage fashion, perhaps sharing tips that work for me? Or, is it my ultimate dream to design a clothing line? I’ve learned that a number of style bloggers across the globe are interested in monetizing their blogs in one way or another. Some do it through advertising for brands on their personal blog and or social media accounts, for which they receive a commission. Others work with specific brands, including attending events and such. This awareness has caused me to ask myself: What are your long term goals? You see, when I started blogging I only set ONE goal. I had planned that if I did not reach that one goal, I’d move on and pursue other interests, discontinuing blogging altogether. Fast forward to now, just over a year of blogging my personal style and guess what? I actually reached my ONE goal! LOL! So now the figurative elephant that is looming in my room: What’s next? I didn’t plan out previously exactly what I wanted to do if/when I actually reached my ONE goal! Lesson to self: Always believe that you can and that you will.

As I continue to reflect on my objectives and goals going forward, I’ll begin implementing changes here and there to align my vision. 

But first, I’d like to get your feedback! What would you like to see/read about here on InMyJoi? How did you learn about this site? What makes you follow my blog?

Thanks for stopping by Style Lovers, I can’t wait to hear from you!
Xx

30PlusStyle: Animal Instinct

The 30PlusStyle Collaboration (www.facebook.com/30plusstyle) is back on the scene (for previous posts click here) and today we’re flashing our animal instincts. We had the option to choose from animal prints, leather, fur and or all of the above!

A few weeks ago I debuted 3 looks in leopard print (click here, here, and here), which solidified my decision that today's post would not contain leopard print ;) 

Warm temperatures have returned to SoCal (despite the fact that it’s now mid-October), so warm that it is simply unthinkable to slip into a fur or anything remotely like it, no matter how much I would like to, because I heart all things FUR.

Hoodie- Jones New York| Moto Jacket-Jones New York (worn here)| Jean-Not Your Daughter’s (worn here)| Booties-Chinese Laundry

As a believer that the color white can be worn successfully all year around, white jeans were an easy pick. I immediately thought to pair them with this zebra print hoodie that I purchased a few years back. 

Next I added my lightweight fabric and faux leather motorcycle jacket as a topper for night temps. 

Now, I’m generally not a hoodie type of woman, but there was something about this one that struck me as feminine, fun. I love the way that it’s made, and the easy drape of the knit.

Usually I opt to wear it with a black knit skirt. Pairing it with white this go round was a fresh and welcome change.

This ensemble was perfect for date night, and my husband was especially a fan of the peep-toe booties =)

Check out all of the #30PlusStyleBloggers T O D A Y:

www.mode-plus.com

www.grownandcurvywoman.com

www.pumpsandstudz.blogspot.com

www.thejenesaisquoi.blogspot.com

www.prettypluspep.blogspot.com

If you’re a Blogger and would like to join us for a future #30plusstyle post please send an email to: 30plusstylecollab@gmail.com. Please be sure to include your blog's URL! Click here if you'd like to see previous #30PlusStyle posts. 

Don't forget to join me on Facebook: www.facebook.com/InMyJoi1

Have a great weekend Style Lovers!

30PlusStyle:The $30 Challenge, Mad for Plaid

The #30PlusStyle Collaboration (www.facebook.com/30plusstyle) returns today with a budget friendly post: Mad for Plaid! PSA: Women do not have to compromise their budget to stay on trend and to look great!

First off, I'd like to extend a warm welcome to our Guest Blogger Gaëlle-Vanessa, the Creator of French Curves!!!

Plaid or tartan, is a classic staple and wool variations naturally resonate with cooler seasons. Inquiring minds want to know: What exactly is the difference between plaid and tartan? Here's what I gathered from dictionary.com: "Generally, we think of tartan as the name for the cloth and plaid as the name for the particular pattern, but the words are often used interchangeably so that tartan can mean any checkered pattern and plaid can mean any checkered fabric".
Now that we've gotten that out of the way, let's move on with today's post!

Fall is officially underway here in the States, which means in my mind that it's time to break out the Plaid =) Red and black tartan is everywhere around us, but how often do you cross paths with colorful plaid combinations?

I'll give you one guess at where I picked up this beaut of a maxi skirt!

Sunnies: Betsey Johnson, $10 (also worn here)

Shirt: Jones New York, $5

Skirt: Vintage, $6

Clutch: Vintage, $2

Shoes:Tildon-excluded from budget friendly portion (also worn here)

Don't forget to pop over and visit our special Guest Blogger, Gaëlle Vanessa: http://thecurvyandcurlycloset.com/

And of course all of the #30PlusStyleBloggers today:

www.grownandcurvywoman.com

www.mode-plus.com

www.pumpsandstudz.blogspot.com

www.thejenesaisquoi.blogspot.com

www.prettypluspep.blogspot.com

If you’re a Blogger and would like to join us for a future #30plusstyle post please email us at: 30plusstylecollab@gmail.com. Please be sure to include your blog's URL! Click here if you'd like to see previous #30PlusStyle posts. 

And last but not least: Join me on Facebook! www.facebook.com/InMyJoi1

A New Love: Black & White

I reluctantly typed the words to today's post. I almost felt like I was cheating on the love of my life, you know: Color! I have worn saturating colors for as far back as I can remember. When I was a little girl, red was my favorite color, and my uncles used to call me Blood (long before that had a street meaning). I almost hate to admit it, but it is undeniably true: I now find myself drawn to black and white color palettes. 

There is something refreshing to me about wearing black and white together. I kept asking myself, why am I drawn to black & white?

I finally realized the answer: black & white clears my palate.What do I mean?

A palate cleanser generally introduces a neutral element that enables one to clear the palate from one flavor to another. I believe that black & white clears my palate and prepares me for my next color combo. 

I won't be giving up colors anytime soon, but I'm happy to add a new element into regular rotation.

Have a great weekend everyone and thank you for stopping by & commenting!

Sunnies: Betsey Johnson

Floral top: Jones New York

Pleat skirt: Talbots

Booties: Chinese Laundry