Throwback Thursday: Eliza J

It’s officially #TBT time and I would be completely remiss if I did not recap the four gorgeous looks that were blogged with #ElizaJ ! *Eliza J is one of my top go-to brands for dresses of every kind. No matter what my style need may be, from casual to dressy, from chic to snazzy- they have me covered. I personally own just about 20 of their dresses, and that number is guaranteed to continually increase ;)

The first item that I styled for them was a fabulously faux stole (original post here). That’s right- not only do they design dresses, but also stoles, skirts, jumpsuits and more. I’ve got my eye on a jumpsuit, but that’s a topic for another post…LOL! Any who I initially planned to style this stole with all black, but it just didn’t give me that vibe I was looking for. Swapped out a black skirt for a white one and wa-lah, I was ready to hit the door.

The second item featured an a-line cable knit dress in my favorite color (original post here). I went monochrome for this ensemble pairing it with matching socks, pumps, and a handbag. For fun, a splash of citron in the form of a statement necklace served as the cherry on top.

The third item is just what every girl needs: A tea length full midi skirt (original post here) with petticoat in tow. Finally I went with an all black look, adding a touch of vintage with a netted hat, modern with a crop top, glitzy with a sequins blazer, and edgy with sleek booties.

The final item was last but certainly not least. It was the dress that my wardrobe has been waiting for-->you know, that dress that gives off WOW factor the very moment that you slip it on. Yes navy blue (original post here) with a sheer overlay, a jeweled neckline, and cut of genius.

Which look was your favorite one? It’s totally hard for me to pick, because I truly swooned over each look, as each one served different venues. But, if I just had to pick only one, well it would be...

 *Each featured item was gifted and a size 1X/14W. Item(s) are available for purchase at Nordstrom in-store or online, and at similar retailers.

Set in Stone

Before there was cobalt, there was navy…

BLUE in the form of navy serves up a dish of spectacular in the form of this dress. 

I mean really, it is  a m a z i n g, I cannot even tell you!!!

Sheer overlay - fitted dress- and a jeweled collar -->

Simply perfect for date night, girls night out, or any soiree that you might attend!

The moment that I first tried it on, I was captivated. The fit was generous, and it looked luxurious. 

When I got dressed, put my make up on, and styled my hair: I felt like ‘WOW’! 

Every woman needs a ‘WOW’ dress in her wardrobe. What is a ‘WOW’ dress? 

It is the dress that you always know that you can turn to, the one that instantaneously gives you 

***100% proof*** WOW factor!!!

Honey, I was feeling MYSELF in this dress! 
It's perfect for this time of year, yet can be easily be threaded throughout the entire year.

For instance: I can totally see myself in this dress for a summer wedding 
paired with strappy sandals, topped off with jewels.

For many women the LBD (little black dress, see here) is a closet staple, as it reliably adds in a dose of oomph. However, never underestimate navy blue Loves!!! 

It is is reminiscent of class, elegance, and glamour.

Dress: Eliza J. (gifted)| Suede pumps: Victoria’s Secret Catalog| Silver clutch: Vintage| Bangles: TJMaxx

Black, Blacker, Blackest

Friend: “That’s a different look on you…”
Me: “What do you mean?”
Friend: “You never wear black...”

That aptly describes a memorable conversation that frequently comes to my mind whenever I wear the color black. 

You see, for most of my life I rarely purchased black clothing. The first LBD that I purchased was in 1998- YES, I actually remember! Oh, and I still have it- see it here… Any who, it was just about a decade later that I purchased my second black dress.

However, since I moved out to the west coast, I cannot help but notice that I now have more black clothing in my wardrobe than ever before. Why is that? My only guess: I am undergoing a style metamorphosis!

Although an all black ensemble is still not my style staple (as of yet, that is), there is something about wearing all black that now feels classic, even timeless to me.

When I received this fabulous, yes luxurious midi skirt (I mean it has an attached petticoat!!!) that I am wearing in today’s post, I tried it on with a number of combinations. Initially I was quite set on pairing it with denim. But after several trial runs, I decided that I was feeling an all black look, and poof- here we are! LOL!

Like most of Eliza J.'s designs, this skirt is highly versatile and can be dressed up or down depending on your style needs and preferences. The quality is supurb, and the fit is generous (this is a 14W). Check them out at my BFF's, a.k.a Nordstrom, in-store or online.

Thanks for stopping by today Style Lovers! Stay tuned for my next post, which features another beauty from Eliza J. ;)

Xx

Hat: Vintage| Sequin Blazer: American Rag (worn here, here, and here)| Crop top: LEITH| Midi skirt: Eliza J. (gifted)| Booties: Chinese Laundry| Jeweled evening bag: Vintage

Sweater Weather

Around this time of year in the States, we are greeted by brisk morning temperatures, considerably less hours of daylight, and in some parts- practically no sunshine at all. Leaves fall off of the trees, flowers slowly wither, and expectations of rain and or snow are in the forecast.

For style lovers however, only one thing is crystal clear: It’s officially Sweater Weather!!!
{Insert happy dance emoticon}

I live in a part of the country that is generally mild year round, so Sweater Weather season is even more celebratory than normal. Warm weather 90% of the year can actually become tiring (I wouldn’t believe that if I hadn’t experienced it), the excitement of a genuine cool down is undeniable.

Since I am gal that practically lives in dresses, sweater dresses are my preferred ammunition. I’ve been showcasing how one of my go-to brands, Eliza J. can meet all of your style needs  (see here) and Sweater Weather is no exception!

This beaut of a blue is cable knit, ribbed, and a-line= A winning formula in my book. Comfortably worn to the office, out to dinner with friends, and even jazzy enough for a dressier event- total versatility. I simply love the cut and the drape of the knit. Ok, let’s face it: The color alone is tantalizing!

Blue is MY FAVORITE COLOR see a few examples here, here, and here.

Sweater dresses can be worn practically anywhere, dressed up or dressed down, layered or not- either way you’ve made the style mark! I decided to go monochrome with this look, only deviating slightly with a splash of citron (Check out my friend JewelryFetishGirl).

Now it's your turn Loves, do share your favorite thing about Sweater Weather!

Sunnies: Tod’s| Necklace: @JewelryFetishGirl (IG)| Dress: Eliza J. (gifted)|Socks: Nordstrom| Pumps: Vince Camuto (also worn here)| Handbag: En Cuir

Black Friday

Today I’m gabbing about one of my absolute go-to brands: Eliza J.!!! I acquire Eliza J. at Nordstrom, but several major retailers also carry them. My current inventory shows just how much I am enamored with this brand...I have purchased just under 20 of their dresses!

Today I am pleased to showcase one of several fabulous editions to their deluxe style soiree: faux fur stoles! As you know, this time of year is full of festive events alongside cooler temperatures. What’s a style loving gal to do?

Layer, layer, and layer! Vary up the textures. Deviate from your normal color palette with an unexpected splash of color.

White is fantastically versatile. Time and time again it has been proven that it can be worn successfully during the winter months. Try pairing white with rich hues like currant, eggplant, turquoise, and need I say: black.

This combination serves my textural interests very well: faux fur, silk, wool, patent leather, and calfskin leather. Faux fur is a great way to add umph, texture, and glam to any look. 

Added bonus: Faux fur also keeps you warm during the winter chill.
Stay tuned for more style goodies and outfit ideas via Eliza J.!
Xx

Sunnies: Nordstrom| Faux fur stole: Eliza J. (gifted)| Silk blouse: Ralph Lauren (worn here)| White wool skirt:1 State

Patent leather boots: Penny Loves Kenny (worn here)| Patent leather clutch: Vintage| Calfskin gloves: Old, Victoria's Secret Catalog (worn here)

This & That

Today’s style edition features a typical merger of Summer and Fall. An easy way to maximize your wardrobe: Layer seemingly seasonal pieces to make them suitable for your local climate at present , along with your personal style preferences.

Admittedly I have an inordinate amount of purple colored pieces in my collection, which makes it easy for me to mix & match this & that. Sidebar: Purple is not my favorite color but rather functions as a neutral color. Basically, purple is like the color black, in my style world.

I typically wear this dress during the summer months, but as it stands it is Fall, so I opted to layer up with my staple silk blouse which is only about a decade young.

On cooler days and or nights this combo can easily be paired with matching tights/boots/or booties. Better yet, if you’ve already had your first snow this cool weather season, I can envision this look with a fun faux fur coat and equally fab knit hat ;)

Sunnies: Tildon| Dress: Ivy & Blu by Maggy Boutique (Nordstrom), worn here| Silk blouse: Ralph Lauren| Suede clutch: Vintage| Sandals: Victoria’s Secret, also worn here

Ambiguity

I once worked with a Manager who had a very ambiguous style of speaking. Each and every single time that we had a meeting, she would wow the room with colorful speech, inspirational ideals, all the while imparting a sense of personal worth to each person. Yet once the meeting was over, I walked away with a fuzzy understanding of exactly what objectives were on and or off the table! When recapping meeting outcomes with colleagues,no one was able to offer any clarity (For a minute I just thought it was me). I came to the realization: No conclusive answers were ever offered, despite direct questioning. Instead, new ideas were often introduced in a fanciful, non-practical way (IMO).

Whenever we were scheduled to meet one on one, I’d prepare a list of detailed questions, specific in nature. As in, choose one of the following: Yes or No. I rehearsed in my mind a game plan to keep the conversation on track, and how to ensure that clarification would be provided.

Yet, once I entered her office, the nostalgia began. Time and time again, each question was met with optimism and addressed ambiguously. I felt powerless to enforce a straight answer... 
When I look back, I can clearly see: We never had an insightful conversation!

To be sure, there are varying styles of speech. However, I would have to say that ambiguity is my least favorite. 

I have a direct style of speech by genetics; I like to ask straight forward questions and to receive straight forward answers. The coveted acquisition of T A C T is consistently a work in progress! Truly it makes no difference to me whether I like the answer or not (usually)- I solely desire a straight answer-preferably one that is also truthful.

In this current era of tolerance and permissiveness, I've observed that ambiguous speech seems to be a safer space than the room where one can state direct thoughts and or opinions. Why? Well, the moment a person states a direct opinion, especially one in conflict with the majority- well social media/the media is in a frenzy about how wrong such said comment was… Which leads me to: Does that mean that it is no longer acceptable to have any real/sincere thoughts/beliefs anymore? Must every word be uttered with the idea of pleasing the masses and not leaning in one direction or another?

Over to you, are you appreciative of ambiguous speech or do you prefer a straight arrow?

Until next time Style Lovers!
XO

Hat: DSW| Leopard vest: Vintage| Orange skirt: Vintage| Leopard sandals: Ivanka Trump (worn here)| Floral 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

Square One

Hey Style Lovers <-----> heyyyyy!!! It’s been a while,  how have you been?! I’ve been doing well! You’ve most certainly been on my mind, YES - my readers! As you may know, I’ve always periodically taken breaks from social media, and or fashion blogging because down time gives me the necessary space to recharge myself (read more here). However, this Summer I noticed that my break intervals became longer and more frequent. Why? I had to brainstorm to find the answer. Is it simply because my life schedule is full? No, because my life schedule has always been full. So why had I begun to feel a sense of dread, even at times disgust, whenever I thought about sitting down to actually blog a look that I wore? It took some time, but the answer finally became apparent to me. 

Perception
It takes quite a bit of work to write, edit, publish, and promote one blog post, especially when you consider how many social media platforms there are. Many bloggers use a variety of platforms to engage with more readers. My main platforms aside from this blog are Instagram, Facebook, and Tumblr (although I am also on Twitter, Google + and Pinterest). In the community of fashion blogging, the current general perception seems to lend itself towards the idea of working one’s way into becoming a full-time paid and or endorsed fashion blogger and or model. 

To say that setting that objective as your own - is a challenge, is the understatement of the year. Consider that this (fashion/blogging regular and plus size) is an industry where literally tens of thousands of people are seeking one common goal- to be The One…The One who all fashion brands (or otherwise) want to work with… The One who all fashion related magazines want to feature… The One who makes it… The One who turns his or her lobby turn into a lucrative career, yes --> to be The One who is on top.

Realizations
Blogging for me began as a hobby. Sure, I thought it might be fun to work with a brand here and there; I had no intentions of marketing for any company/brand for free! LOL! However, focusing on trying to obtain partnerships with brands began to have me feeling some sort of way. Again, I had to think about why. The answer reached the surface. Simply put: I don’t want to “make it” as a fulltime blogger/model/socialite or any of the like. I do not aspire to be “The One”. My beliefs, morals, and priorities are non-negotiable and uncompromisable. I want to blog, on my own terms, in my own way.

Not only am I an appreciative introvert (read more here) BUT I’m truly and genuinely happy with my life as it stands right now: in this very moment :) My hope for the future, my genuine circle of friends, my close family, my long-term personal goals (which have nothing to do with fashion), and my career! I’m grateful to have a comfortable place to live in, a bed to sleep in each night, a variety of foods to choose from for each and every meal that I eat, and in my city: transportation! When I bring myself back to center, shifting out all of the noise, I am able to truly focus on what’s important to ME as an individual/woman, what my intentions are in blogging (read why I started here), and what aspiration is appropriate for me as the whole person. Irregardless of the cut throat ambition, fakery, dishonesty, and cliques present within the fashion blogging industry, my purpose remains the same: Blogging is for me a recreational hobby, I am decidedly different, and I will continue to do ME! 

I am so appreciative of you, my readers! I hope that something you see and or read today will inspire you!

Dress: Eliza J. | Statement necklace: JCPenney | Pumps: Victoria’s Secret | Tote: Dooney & Bourke