The Acquisition of Shorts

sunnies: HERE| lipstain: HERE| necklace: HERE| romper: c/o HERE| sandals: old| straw bag: vintage, thrifted

Hey there! Not too long ago I declared that 2018 would be 'The Summer of Shorts'. Now that we've landed smack in the middle of July, I decided now is the perfect time to conduct a self assessment, actually let's call it a progress report. 
Before I begin, in the event that you're new to my blog, despite being a plus size/full figured woman --> I ❤ wearing shorts! It has taken time for me to develop full appreciation for my body (flaws and all), but now that I have it, well the rest is history Babes! 
When I look back on my shopping habits over the decades (clearly I must've started shopping as an infant 😁), I've always heavily gravitated towards dresses. As a result dresses make up the majority of my wardrobe.  Within the last 10 years or so, I developed an increasing appreciation for wearing/styling separates, which include skirts and shorts. There are far more choices in my size to choose from now than there was in years past. Whoo hoo! 
However, let's get to it - how am I fairing in the acquisition of shorts for 2018? I'll let the facts speak for themselves:
Q: Do shorts now make up a considerable part of my personal inventory?
A: No. Although my love for wearing shorts continues to grow, my current inventory levels are quite low in comparison with the amount of dresses that I own.
Q: How many additional pairs of shorts should I add to my wardrobe?
A: I think starting with 10 is a good number. Rompers are also included, they are wonderfully versatile (like the one I am wearing in today's post).
Q: Have I created an action plan to meet my goal?
A: I have several specific ideas in my mind, but I plan to commit them to paper no later than tomorrow. Writing things down in detail always helps me to execute a plan properly😜
Until next time,
Xx

The Shoulder Show

Dress: c/o Gwynnie Bee - you can purchase it HERE| Sunnies: HERE| Necklace: J. Crew, sold out| Purse: Vintage, thrifted| Leopard Sandals: Old

Happy Friday Babes!!! Today's post features a stunning,RED, knit, off the shoulder dress, teaming with frills, ribbed details, and scalloped edges.... Can we just call it FUN for short?! I live for FUN clothes 😍 They rank highly - as in neck and neck -with pieces that I categorize as providing a serious happiness factor (read more about that HERE). I snagged this beauty per a recent shipment from Gwynnie Bee (learn more about them HERE + get a free trial offer) when I took it out of the box the very first things that I noticed was its intense red hue. Ladies, you cannot go wrong with a GOOD red piece! 
I subscribe to the philosophy: When in doubt, go with RED...
Until next time,
Xx 

Helpful Tips for Buying Clothes Online

Eyelet jumpsuit: HERE, other options HERE & HERE| Necklace: Similar HERE| Watermelon clutch: c/o  HERE| White leather mules: HERE

White after Labor Day?! All day, every day 😁Here in SoCal we are just barely outside the grips of a record breaking heatwave (and we're heading back into the 90s)! I snagged this jumper during a once-in-a-lifetime markdown + I was able to use a coupon!!!! Queue the applause!!! I am so happy that I stalked it & scored it before it sold out. If you haven't heard, the quality of Eloquii items never comes up short, and the fit is consistently on point 👍👍 
I purposely waited to wear and style this jumpsuit after Labor Day 😎.  I don't subscribe to the notion of so-called fashion faux pas and to be 100% transparent with you as I know I can: I pretty much don't care for rules in general 😌
When it comes to shopping for clothes online, I'll be the first to admit that in the beginning I was more than reluctant... My favorite way to shop for clothes is in-store, hands down. However, due to supply & demand logistics, I find myself shopping more and more online. Afterall, it is the way of the future...

I thought it might be helpful to share a few tips that I have found useful along the way:

SIGN UP FOR EMAIL LISTS/CLUBS
I know, nobody likes spam mail. But oftentimes retailers send out special discount codes via email plus you get a heads-up or early access to sales or discount offers. 

FILTERS ARE YOUR FRIEND
I get so overwhelmed in staring at page after page of merchandise. Using filters saves my sanity. I select my size, the type of item that I am interested in seeing, along with brands I like. If I am on a website that I frequent, I often search for 'what's new' from newest to oldest. 

SET RECURRING REMINDERS
For retailers that often release new merchandise that sells out quickly, using a recurring reminder to check them out is helpful. I hate it when I miss out on a great find simply because I didn't know it was available! A calendar reminder can also prove helpful when watching/waiting for an item to go on sale.

UTILIZE WISH LISTS
I often save items that I am eyeing at Nordstrom in my Wish List. I love that you can select the size that you want and keep a track of it until you are ready to make a purchase. The only caveat is that it may sell out...

REQUEST TO BE NOTIFIED WHEN AN ITEM IS BACK IN-STOCK
Several retailers that I shop offer this feature and it is the best! They send you an email as soon as an item is restocked in the size that you selected.

DON'T BE AFRAID OF FINAL CLEARANCE SALE ITEMS
This was such a touchy area for me...Final sale generally means that a refund or exchange is out the window. Boo! However, the best deals are often found this way. I only risk it with tried & true brands that I know and ❤. I can trust their sizing/quality to be consistent. Even if an item comes and you don't love it for one reason or another, remember that you can sell it online, or gift it away!

ALWAYS READ THE REVIEWS
Literally the best information about an item is usually found in the reviews given by actual buyers. Is the fit true to size? How is the quality? Is sizing up or down recommended? Will it need to be tailored? Best part ever: See pictures of the item on everyday women versus the model that the brand has selected and tailor fit clothing to.

CHECK THE MEASUREMENT GUIDE
To be sure of how an item will fit your body, don't skip the measurement guide! Here you can usually find out if the brand lists an item as a size 14, what that really means IRL, i.e. inches in the waist/hips/length/etc. Sizing can vary greatly from brand to brand- especially when merchandise caters to a different demographic than your own.

HAVE ITEMS SHIPPED TO THE STORE
If there is a store near you that you frequent anyway, have the item shipped to the store. You can dodge shipping fees...plus browse new displays in-store while you're there for pick-up.

10% OFF REALLY DOES COUNT
I have griped about this before, like what good is it really? Well, it just might cover your shipping costs! We all know how much we hate shipping fees! LOL!

GOOGLE FOR COUPON CODES BEFORE YOU HIT THE PURCHASE BUTTON
I try to remember to do this every single time prior to checking out. Who wants to pay more for something than is necessary? I ❤ a last minute deal!

REMEMBER THAT YOU CAN RETURN IT- OR CAN YOU?ALWAYS READ THE RETURN POLICY!
Read the fine print! What is the return policy? Is this item from outside your country? Are return labels provided? If all is kosher, ship the item back ASAP, using the provided return label. Double check that they will not bill you for shipping costs... If possible, return it in-store! All shipping hassles can be entirely avoided when you take that route.

Well that's it for now Babes- I hope you've found a tip or two helpful! Now it's your turn 😁 What tips have you learned along the way? Please do share!

Until next time,
Xx 

Silver Lining

Hat: Nordstrom, similair HERE & HERE| Bodysuit:Old, sold out (also worn HERE)| Statement necklace: Nordstrom

Jeans: c/o HERE| Velvet mules: c/o HERE| Purse: Thrifted

As much as I love tossing prints (see recent examples HERE & HERE) along with being drenched in bold tantalizing hues, I also thoroughly appreciate neutral color palettes. My personal style is a mixture, or maybe I should say a combination of a number of style genres. To be 100% transparent, I dress according to my mood, which fluctuates. LOL! I would be bored to no end if I could only delve into one style genre. VARIETY IS THE SPICE OF LIFE!!! I don't like to always look the exact same way style wise 😊

Today's look features a bodysuit that I scored last winter, along with newly acquired distressed denim jeans. Instead of adding in a pop of color (a familiar routine), I added in pops of black by way of a tweed pom hat, leather purse, and velvet shoes. This gave the look textural interest, which is yet another form of variety. This look was perfect for a chill evening, out and about shooting the breeze.

Until next time,

Xx

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

Take Me to the Tropics

Printed top & wide leg pants: c/o HERE (size up + save with code "XOJOI")| Handbag: Kate Spade, older| Statement necklace: From my trip to Kenya

When I was little, I often went on road trip with my family during the summer. A constant question that I can remember asking while enroute was: Are we there yet? Fast forward decades later, I am constantly thinking: Is it time to go on vacation again yet?! LOL! Clearly not much has changed with me 😎
When I spotted this two piece set HERE I knew that it would be perfection for an upcoming island vacation. It has a wonderful print, is lightweight, and totally tropical. 
I think I will have the top altered a wee bit (it's supposed to be a crop) along with having the length of the pants shortened. That way I can wear them with lower heels/flats whilst island hopping 😉 But then again, I do love the billowy length- but I also don’t want to be forced to wear 4 ½ + inch heels all the time…hmmm. I guess altering the pants requires more thought...
Whichever way it goes, one thing is for sure: This 2 piece set will be on the plane with me in just a few short months!!!

Until next time,
XO
P.S. Is it time to go on vacation again yet?!

Seeking Spring

Can you believe that the very first day of spring is nearly 70 hours away?! Some parts of the country are still digging out from the wrath of Stella, a storm that dumped a fresh batch of snow on the east coast. Here on the sunny side of the States, we are enjoying a run of mild temperatures. However, temperatures can vary significantly from city to city, as well as when transitioning from day to night.

In an effort to cope with this common inconvenience, I employ lightweight, breathable layers. Today’s ensemble features cotton and a fantastically breathable knit. Although this femme fatale-ish blouse may seem like the star of the show, in reality it is the vest 😉

Vests are a great way to pull an entire look together, not to mention they add in a layer of warmth (which I always appreciate). My favorite features about this vest is the ruffled hem and high-low profile. Don’t miss out on the cohesiveness that a vest can add to your look Babes!

By the way, I snagged this vest via my Gwynnie Bee membership. GB is a great way to try out different styles and trends without commitment - to better learn exactly what works for YOU! I’m working with them to spread the word this month Don’t forget you can sign-up for their services FREE HERE!

Until next time,

XO

Vest: c/o of GB, get a free month of clothes HERE| Blouse: HERE| Necklace: From Kenya
Culottes: HERE (on sale for $17!!!),plus additional options here + here
Suede sandals: HERE (Red is sold out, other options here + here)| Clutch: Kate Spade

The Golden Hour

I scored this shimmering beauty when gold/sequins/and the like were in ample supply for the holiday season.  I’ve mentioned before that I like to stock up on ‘special occasion wear’ during the months that they are in an abundance, and then spread out the wear of them all throughout the year 😚 I don’t wait for special occasions to dress up- when I look good, I feel good!

The best thing about the items in today’s look is that everything is on sale!!! Check out the links below 😉

Until next time,

XO

→ Photography by Lydia Hudgens

Top: Similar| Necklace: Here| Skirt: Here| Shoes: Here & here| Handbag: Here

A Classic Case of Fall Fever

Every woman needs a moto that she can count on, through thick and thin.  I am happy to say that I have found my match, and she is a BEAUT! Gold hardware, zippered pockets, perfect length, and a belt- be still my heart! Of course the biggest style factor of all is it's phenomenally classic leopard print!!!

Fall continues to evade us here in SoCal, I managed to sneak this look in a few weeks ago on a cloudy, cool day :) The way I see it, I really have to seize every opportunity to enjoy Fall fashions, because truly the very next day I could be in the grips of Summer weather!

Now back to this moto: This is a relatively new addition to my collection, I’ve only styled it two or three times to date (I generally like to wear new items at least three times in short succession to get a true feel for them). However, in my head- the style options for it go on and on!  I am most certainly looking forward to playing each one of them out in real life : ) This time around, I took a classic style approach, pairing my leopard friend with a black jersey turtleneck dress and black leather + wool heels.

Moto jacket: http://bit.ly/2dFPE8l | Statement necklace: http://bit.ly/2eUfW3k

 Turtleneck dress: Karen Kane + similar here on sale | Handbag: similar here on sale | Shoes:Aldo | Gold ring: c/o Kevin Jewelers

This was totally an easy #ootd, adding in elements of style yet 100% ease of wear and flow. Speaking of style, have you noticed all of the retail sales and deals currently brewing for Black Friday?! Several retailers are going above and beyond – actually hosting sales for the entire month of November versus just on Black Friday! My buddies over at Kevin Jewelers are doing just that! I’ve mentioned previously that I am working with them as an Influencer; A highlight for me each month is being in the know about all of the fantastic deals to be had : ) Of course it isn’t fair for me to keep them all to myself- I always pass on savings to my readers! Here are two current offers that I want to make sure you’re in the know about:

DIAMONDS, DEAL$ & DESTINATIONS

1       For NOVEMBER ONLY (in-store)-

Spend $299 or more and get a FREE VEGAS TRIP

Spend $2,499 or more and get a FREE HAWAII TRIP (Includes airfare for two!)

2         Online offer (cannot be combined with any other offer)-

      Take 10% off your Kevin Jewelers website purchase through December 31^st, using code JOI564!

Until next time Loves,

XO

About Purple

Today’s post features a double dose of genius by way of designers A Leapof Style & K. Jones! Can we discuss this beyond fantastic purple-licious ankara “Garden Midi” in Aztec Berry?! If you follow A Leap of Style on Instagram, no doubt you’ve been swept away by her exhilarating designs and color implosions. I have several personal favorites...

I was so psyched about the opportunity to showcase one her creations that I just had to go double duty and style it in two ways!!! The first look (scroll down for the second look) is my idea of a gander on the casual side- think taking in a meal, meeting friends for Sunday brunch, date night, or even an afternoon of shopping.

I mentioned in my previous post (see here) how I love incorporating suede elements during warm weather versus saving it solely for cool temperatures. I added in a touch of teal by way of suede pumps (previously worn here) and a satin oversized clutch. It seemed like the perfect accompaniment to the purple dominated color palette. 

This custom-made, one of a kind necklace was designed and created by K.Jones. I first discovered it on Instagram. It is exquisite in every single way. I think it goes with this Ankara midi skirt in a way like no other. The necklace is from her “Sienna Sun Collection”. It is made of purple cedrella calantas pods, hand painted wood beads and coconut shells creating a statement in an effortlessly chic way. Visit K. Jones here, and take 10% off your order by using code “JOI10”.

For look number two, I aimed for a more classic approach, but with the unexpected element of a print toss-up. I heart mixed prints!!! See examples here, here, here, and here. This look translates well at the office, for worship, and for an evening out.

Truly, I like this skirt styled both ways, and I already have several additional ideas in mind...which may very well play out on the blog, eventually - stay tuned! 

Separates are made to be mixed and matched; Experiment with multiple ways of doing so, and never forget to have fun with it!!

Until next time Dolls,

XO

Sunnies: Nordstrom & Marshalls |Statement necklace: c/o K. Jones| Tops: Express & Ralph Lauren| Watch: c/o JORD Wood Watches

Skirt: c/o A Leap of Style| Shoes: Audrey Brooke & Victoria’s Secret catalog| Clutch: Thrifted