Sweater Therapy

Snuggled in between Soul/Funk and Reggae at The Record Exchange felt quite fitting :)

The current temperature situation in Boise, Idaho is 10 degrees. What that means my fine folks is that it's f-bomb cold! As I've discussed a few post back, there is nothing cute about shivering. So let's figure out how to add a little dose of goodness that helps to ease the impact of these frigid temperatures. I want something that says "hey girl, I've got your front, your back and I'm here to keep you cozy." ( this is said in an ultra smooth Barry White voice :) That leads me to coveting sweaters that do double duty: apply warmth to my body and of course, keeps my style game happy. 

This sweater tho!! This lace up detail is a a trend that I'm loving on because it offers a cool detail to an otherwise simple sweater.  That's right, my cozy sweater game just got upgraded and it feels so right. This goodness is by Endless Rose. It's a 100% wool but not itchy.  Here's a few other styles that will help us get through what we have affectionally call snowmageddon in Idaho (hehe) This cuteness from JCrew. I mean, stripes and warmth ( YES!!) and this v-neck cozy sweater from Topshop. Stay warm and safe my peeps and I'll see you next week for more fashion filled goodness. Let me know if you snag any of these styles and how you plan on rocking them. Hugging on YOU!!!

All photos by the talented Karen of Karenephoto

When I Said Yes To Love

There was this time when I thought I knew exactly the type of man I was going to marry.  We all have "the list"...you know.... tall, handsome, funny, kind, gentleman, giver, handy, well-dressed, superman, passionate....I could go on and on and on. Then I met James and the list got a bit fuzzy ;)  Add on stubborn, loner, doesn't care about stuff/ things ( seriously if it was up to him he would have 5 shirts and 5 pants). He was this long haired, hippie guy who was a bit odd,  interesting, ruggedly handsome and he really wanted to know me. Not in the "hey girl, can I get your digits" kind of way ( yah, we've met that guy....eewww). We just talked and talked about everything and anything. He was refreshing and I wanted to know everything about him. It also made me uncomfortable because I've never met anyone who was so comfortable in his own skin. Beating to his own drum or kicking his own hacky sack :) We are opposites attracting in the most exquisitely extreme sense. This flannel that he wore...I was not familiar. The direct way he asked me out....say what?! Yet all along, I was already at YES.

YES to moving across the country to be with you. YES, I will spend the rest of my life with you. YES to letting go and braving the unknown because that is the sweetness of love. The relentless want and need to be with another human. The complex way we at times can't control how it chooses to pan out...it dares to choose for us. The will we must have to keep our sanity in this union, together yet still our own person. 11 years together, 9 years of marriage and a life built together that reminds me that growth is what happens when you allow others to enrich you. I became stronger more certain of who I am and saw that the journey is the bliss. The memories we've created, the moments triggered by the little things and best of all, Maddie. A little girl in my world since she was a month old, who's given me pure meaningful, fulfilling love.  

He's still my mountain man and remains the same version of who I met 11 years ago but with more clarity. More certain of who he is and allowing me to see all of him. I see him. He sees me. I try not to edit who he is...socks with sandals, yah, I'll pick my battles. He sees me. Yes I'm wearing a blush pink tulle skirt with a denim shirt and heading to the grocery store. I'm allowing things to come to light that helps me figure out each day how to be a better person, stepmom, wife, friend, me. 

This day was so special not just because we got to celebrate our love but we were surrounded by those that gave love through their passions.  The photography magic of Ben and Joella made all of our visions come to life. The botanical bliss created by Flowers at Will made the beauty around us even more spectacular. The delightful creations that made our taste palate happy by Boise's Bakery. The incredible table scape and attention to the tiniest details by Pottery Barn Boise made our day beam with life. The flawless dress that draped my body made possible by LaNeige Bridal. The perfect makeup by the fabulous Blush by Jamie Rose made me feel like my most beautiful self. Our resourceful and awesome Sprout design_ Idaho who helped to coordinate this vision that was once in my head. I felt like the luckiest girl in the world to have the opportunity to style one of the best days of our lives, surrounded by some talented magic makers. Thank you for coming along this journey with me. 

Cozy Sweater Goals

All photos by the darling, sweet and talented Toni of sydneystudiosandco

If you're anything like me, the start of the dropped temperatures, has me dreaming of cozying up in the best way. That usually includes busting out my old favorites in the sweater arena and finding those new ones that'll keep Mama going warmly and stylishly. I'm what you called chill factor challenged, which means, I don't like being cold, not one bit.  I think of the many many times I ask my hubby to turn the heat up ( because I'm incapable of doing it myself ;)  or making sure I have a good cardigan, jacket,  something to throw over myself, just in case.  So here's a few of my favorite sweater styles to tackle old man winter. 

This cozy number and myself was featured in the launch of My Style Boise winter lookbook. There's nothing I love more than sharing the goodness with you guys and this fabulous duo, Marissa and Toni,  are creating a wonderful platform to do just that! Click here to view the first style guide that shows all the details on this look, the other lovelies featured and also our local shops for getting these styles. Can we say hello outfits?!!

This Vince, black cashmere sweater pairs well with just about anything and the funnel neck adds a fun modern edge. It's cozy, chic and will be my "go to" this Fall/Winter. The denim skirt was such a sweet find. You just can't go wrong with classic denim. This particular style is a bit shorter but packed with a whole dose of class because it's not too fitted. I love finding styles that do double duty. I can wear it Spring, Summer and Fall, just add a cool legging or tights and the cuteness continues! I found both of these beauts at Fancy Pants in downtown Boise. 

Want more of what I'm loving on in the sweater world?? There's a lot but right now click here and here to check out two of the sweater styles on my radar. The first at H & M and this playful one at Topshop. Did I mention they're way under a $100, yes please! Let me know if you snag any of the styles shown. Stay warm my friends!

Style Game Changer: rocking sneakers

Happy as a clam moment captured by the awesome Karen of karenephoto

Let me take a moment to send a little love letter to sneakers, sneaks, kicks ;)  Dear sneakers, thank you for coming back in style like a champ. My entire wardrobe and feet thank you! :) The resurgence of comfort wear for me is an exclamation that "we"  have entered into this median of style where we can create our own definition of style. Say hello to my converse. These beauties have been with me for years and have allowed extreme comfort  amongst my style game. Peeps, I'm going to preach it all day every day. You can look great and be comfortable.  Sneakers can add a bit of sass and ease to a dress, flirty skirt (or non -flirt;) anything. 

sneakers: Converse   Dress: ALC at Fancy Pants 

My quick tip is to maintain a sleek profile when wearing a dress or skirt. These converse are lightweight so they don't add bulk to my feet. It allows the dress to still be feminine because it's not trying to compete with a bulky sneaker.  I'm pretty loyal to great classics.  Brands like Converse and Vans are my main go to when it comes to sneaker wear for me. I'm also currently loving on a few of the Superga styles as well for a more edgy wear. 

Don't be afraid to mix your looks. This high/ low style is perfect with sneaks.  It can allow you to dress down just about anything without overdoing it. 

See you next week my awesome peeps. Fall is around the corner ( I know!! ) and I have some fun, easy and oh so stylish ways to make the transition from Summer painless. MUAH :)

When cuteness + comfort collides

top: JCrew  denim shorts: Forever 21   Sandals: Madewell

A really awesome thing is happening right now in fashion. You can look fantastic and guess what peeps, be comfortable. Yes!! Let's get it straight, not so comfy you're lounging hard on the sofa. I hear this word from clients all the time and my job is to show them how we can have both. Let's break down this "comfort" situation a bit. I want you to wear styles that look and feel great on your body. You want to feel comfortable and wear styles that won't sacrifice looking great. It's doable and I'll show you how.

How to keep the comfort whilst still engaging the cuteness: The things that I find a bit unusual is what I tend to gravitate towards. This darling bell sleeve top from JCrew was just that. It's fancy but in a cotton t-shirt type of feel, which brings it right back to comfort zone. Look for styles that allow you the versatility to pair with a dressed up or dressed down style. So I can easily rock this top with denim shorts or a fancy skirt. Look for prints and texture: polkadots, stripes, chevron or a modern floral. These types of tops pack a big punch for your closet and makes you look great, effortlessly. Hallelujah! :)

I'm not saying to stay away from trends but I only date trends, not marry them ;) I find the styles I love and my clients go to over and over again are the classics. Simple, chic and you won't regret the purchase 1 year later. That doesn't mean you're entering plainJaneville (I know, it's not a word but it just felt right).  It's best to look for styles that have a classic look like this stripe top but with a little fun, the bell sleeves. Include trends in small doses. So instead of an entire tassel dress, go with a darling tassel top. 

Break some rules: Wearing navy and black together was a no no in the fashion rules arena. We can wave goodbye to it and rejoice. I'm wearing a navy and white stripe top with black distressed denim shorts. For me, it's all bout texture and print. The stripe is forgiving and I don't have to worry about matching. So you can pair your navy polkadot shirt or navy stripe with black and go about your fantastic day :)

Don't forget the FUN : Accessorizing is a great way to add a little bit of fun and the unexpected to your style. This darling Rebecca Minkoff backpack does just that. It's practical and brings a dose of happy in this blush color. These sunglasses are from Fetch Eyewear. I saw them in Portland and fell in love with the unique and simple style. Then I learned more about what they represent and fell head over heels in love. I am constantly searching for great style and brands that serve a  bigger purpose with fashion as the medium. 100% of the profits ( YEP, 100%) is donated to animal rescue. This makes my better world momentum uber happy. Click here to learn more about this amazing company, it's mission and drool over the many fabulous eyewear #purchase. 

I have to send out a really BIG HUGE GIGANTIC HUG with a squeeze for the kind and sweet messages from my last post, Loving on U.S.A. This is what I meant about feeling like home. It's love, kindness and having each others back. Now go get you some comfy cuteness and share with me your favorite finds. 

You are so enough

This bag is from Mulberry Press Co, a wonderful lifestyle brand that's dedicated to delivering inspiration and positivity. What's not to love about that :)

Y O U   A R E   SO   ENOUGH

Words are so powerful. I remember my husband saying to me "babe, you've got this" when we were in the first stages of me diving into launching my personal styling company. His relentless support was the exclamation that I needed to take the chance and trust myself. It's love.

The phrase "you are so enough" resonates with me, especially in those moments where I felt I was not doing enough or I feared being inadequate. I believe as women we have these endless standards that are comprised to make us feel uncertain about our capabilities. However, what I've found is that the only barometer that matters is the one that you set for yourself. I'm constantly trying to figure out what I can do better with my business to best serve my clients. For me, it's been a whole lot of learning, researching, big time listening and allowing myself to be true to who I am. Along the way, I saw this merger of me working on being a better person contributed to me being a better business person. Trust me the process never ends and the learning is endless but I think that's a great thing. 

The eggs you surround yourself with matters in a BIG way so they better be good :) I have been blessed to meet some of the most intelligent, driven, passionate, kind humans who are at the top of their game in their careers. They have supported, inspired and encouraged me along the way. It's vital for me to know in my heart that I'm enough to do whatever it is that I want. However, it helps to have a village and that means surrounding myself with great eggs that are honest, kind, inspire and have some major integrity. 

You are so enough to be what you want and when you have moments when you don't feel enough, which we all do, just remember you are not doing this thing all by yourself. I've got your back.  

“You have worth, you have purpose and you are always more than enough in this life. When we love ourselves, we make room for others to love us and share our journey. Love is a powerful thing and it starts with loving everything you already are.”

— Sera, founder of Mulberry Press Co

Wear What You Love

I'm wearing a vintage high waisted gold pencil skirt with gold oxfords and it makes me happy.  It makes me want to drop it like it's hot ( aka dance) and walk with an extra skip in my step. Seriously, putting on this outfit sets my day. It says "girrrlll, it's gonna be a good one."  Wearing what you love is a blissful combination of self- expression embodied with whatever kind of sass you want to deliver. I can sense when my clients are not comfortable in an outfit, even when their words say otherwise. The body is incredibly expressive.  I pay very close attention to those movements that tells me we're out of the "comfort zone" or the uncertainty that comes with newness... "can I really wear this."  One of my goals as a personal stylist is to navigate style in a way that highlights the best path for my client in the simplest way. 

Style is ubiquitous, which fuels and inspire self-expression in so many ways.

So what does it take to wear what you love? I have to admit, when it comes to style I have a very strange six sense. My clients call me the "outfit whisperer"  :) because I  see the outfits I want on them. For myself, I learned all about what looks work on me and it doesn't hurt that I'm obsessed with fashion and style. So, this allowed me to discard any other stuff that comes along my way that I know won't work and spend that time on better things. I also listen to myself ( you know that gut feeling that says, take that BLANK off, it is not the one). I'm also blessed with  fantastic peeps who deliver honest critique with a hug :)  

Wearing what you love, with the emphasis on YOU. I had the privilege to style this fantastic Mom of 5, yes 5 kiddos :) She has amazing curves and struggled to embrace said curves and find styles that worked for her. We all have our own body struggles. What I saw when we met was her amazing waist, great legs and wonderful shoulders. My mission- liberate all that goodness so that she too can begin to appreciate them in styles that compliment all those great assets. In turn, feeling great in what she wears.

Wearing what you love is REALLY loving you in what you wear. What's not to love about that :)

Easy ways to rock neutrals

Wearing neutrals just makes me swoon about summer. It's light, fresh and modern. Summer will be here in about 6 weeks peeps and I'm counting :)  Wearing all neutrals is about texture and picking the right shade. I'm a fan of whites, ivory and grays. Since the weather will be slipping on its fancy 70 degrees and up temperature our way,  here are a few of my "how to" tips to rocking all neutrals and keeping your cool. 

Texture is your friend. I'm wearing these  ivory denim shorts from JCrew and paired it with this darling eyelet  top from Banana Republic. The eyelet gives this color palette some texture and makes the outfit more playful. By the way guys, this top was on super sale in the store so go snag yourself one now :) The ivory top was a bit darker than the shorts but this is why having texture is so great. The shades do not have to be an exact match, which makes pairing easy. Mama likes that!

the sun shining through :)

Accessorize to add a little something something ;) I paired this grey bag from JCrew ( so cute right) and my little coral puffball name Javi  ;)  to give the all ivory look some anchor. When it comes to styling myself and my clients, looking great should be a simple and easy process. Neutrals allows this ease because you don't have to worry about matching or coordinating since you're using the same color palette. They all play nicely with each other. 

If you want to wear all white, choose white denim and a silk-like top or knitted top with a smooth cotton bottoms. If you want an all grey look, wear light grey on top, dark on the bottom with a fun printed bag. Are you guys picking up what I'm throwing down?! Wonderful!! Now go and get your style on. MUAH!! :)

The perfect white tee: DO GOOD + LOOK GOOD #TheStitch

feeling the great vibes in our #TheStitch white tee...SO MUCH FUN!!

Do you believe in magic?? Well I do and not the hocus-pocus kind but the belief that we can create moments that can transform someones day, life, world and our own.  We can find these avenues in so many different ways and it doesn't take much. When I was asked by Ashley, the absolutely adorable and wonderful wife of Speak Your Silence founder Matt Pipkin to style this fun photoshoot featuring cool ways to rock #TheStitch white tee, I said hello outfits!!! ( insert hands in the hair emoji ;)

We got our style on with the adorable Ashley, the beautiful Lacey of Ditching Normal and the fantastic photography skills of Jean Mazac of Double Take Photography. 

By wearing "The Stitch"  you become a voice that can help move the issue of child sexual abuse from a taboo to a cause people love and support. 100% of the proceeds, yep 100% of the proceeds funds counseling that is transforming lives. To learn, join and become a champion for this great cause visit www.speakyoursilence.org. 

The perfect white tee is certainly a staple that I covet. A perfect white tee that promotes a greater good, even better. Here's some great ways to rock this pretty rad tee!! 

Casual Styles

I'm all about comfort. Ashley looks so fresh and cool with these skinny cargo pants and Adidas kicks #yesplease 

Boyfriend jeans and metallic silver sneaks, ummmm need I say more. Okay a little more, this look is all about effortless cool. Lacey nailed it! 

Babes!! Shorts and sandals. It doesn't get any easier than that. This look gets me ready for cruiser rides and summer strolls. Who's ready?!!

Classy Styles

I wanted to feature some dressed up ways to rock our white tee. I love showing the versatility of styles. Remember your clothes should work for you not the other way around. I'm rocking all white by pairing my #TheStitch tee with this white denim skirt from JCrew. Hey, Summer date :) Lacey has a bit of edge with her look with her streamline leather skirt, so cute!! The ankle boots brings a cool print to a very minimalist look. I saw these shorts on Ashley and immediately loved them on her. The print and the bow are so darling, which is perfect on this beauty. 

Fun Styles

Cue Cyndi Lauper, girls just want to have fuunn and we sure did! :)

How happy and playful is this look on Lacey with this amazing gold metallic skirt from JCrew and perfect nude gladiator heels?!! It's so fun!

Yes, I'm this excited!!! Overall and gold oxfords makes any look a bit more playful. 

Kauuttee!! This pop of happy colors on Ashley with the coral skirt and yellow Bit necklace gets me Summer mode ready. 

I know exactly how you're feeling right now. YOU WANT THIS TEE!! For the month of April Piece Unique  in downtown Boise will carry #TheStitch tee and 100% of the proceeds goes to this great cause. I know April is almost over but don't worry you can head over to www.speakyoursilence.org to snag your new favorite tee! Hello doing good!! I'm so proud of you guys. Remember to show how your rocking your #TheStitch tee :)

Temperature control styling

Yep!! Springs here y'all!! We've sprung forward and the light stays with us a bit longer. This gets me all revved up for warm sunshiny drenched days. I know, you want to put on your shorts and run into the sunshine. Hold your horses because the chill factor lingers but thankfully the freeze has gone bahbye :) So what can my babes wear when the weather is nice but you might need to bring a jacket?! Layering is our BFF. 

You can't go wrong with a little fur vest ( faux or real...your preference).  It's a great layer that looks chic and will actually keep you warm (win win). I paired it with this awesome fitted stripe skirt by Greylin that I snagged at Piece Unique downtown.  There is so much cuteness in that store! It's high-waisted and holds all the goodness in with its structured fabric. This light weight sweater is from JCrew and is slightly fitted as not to compete with the fur vest. So it's time to wear those puffer vest like this and pair with your button down shirts. Really digging on this style. You'll stay warm but when the temperature decides to up its game 5-10 degrees, all you need to do is remove a layer to keep your cool.  I also want you to give cardigans some love!! You can pair with a tee, skinny jeans and some great sneaks ( I love these).  Before the release of our little piggies in the full sun,  ankle boots are still on full rotation. These are from Fancy Pants downtown, they have such a great selection so brace yourself. I wear these boots with almost everything!!

I love the four seasons because it allows me to refresh my wardrobe and venture on a fun style journey with the change in weather. There's a bit of renewal that comes with Spring, at least for me. I get this extra charge from the excitement of nature changing it's decor as well. It's a pretty fantastic welcome, don't you think.  

I have so many ideas brewing under this curly poof!! It's kind of crazy! Thank you for connecting with me and giving me your feedback.  I'll be sharing more of my plans/outfits,  including the style workshop details on my Instagram @seelaurastyle. If you want to join, email me at fashion@lauratully.co subject style workshop.

What I know for sure is that I will make the relentless efforts in my own way to let EVERY girl and woman know that she is wonderful, special and necessary. I know I'm not alone and I'm so happy that you're joining me. HUGS!!! 

Black tie wear...upgraded

I got the opportunity to do a photoshoot at the Owyhee place with the fantastic Deborah Hardee and let's just say I was in a happy place. Allow me to croon for just a moment about my crush on Boise and why The Owyhee Place adds that uber extra layer of cool. It's modern and has a great grown up and fabulous vibe. If you haven't visited the renovated and ultra amazing space, grab your friends and have a cocktail at kindness bar in the chicest lounge. Let me know what you think or better yet, send your girl an invite...hello cocktails.

Smiling bright at Kindness Bar at the Owyhee Place

So let's talk outfits, shall we. Oh what to wear to the fancy and sometimes schmancy events. It always seems that no matter what newness is in our closet, a black tie, gala or the like brings out the feeling of having absolutely nothing to wear. I know!! When it comes to dressing for those events, a little black dress is of course a great staple but I know we can have more fun! "Girls just wanna have fun"...it never gets old! I love to mix it up for my clients and find a style or look that they're beyond excited to wear.  My mode is wearing something that allows me to express my personality, reflect pure chicness and of course I've gotta feel comfortable.

I'm obsessed with this JCrew blazer and I will warn you now that It will be on heavy rotation in my style arsenal ;)  I paired it with these great lace pants which feel like pajamas but your chicness is not compromised whatsoever. To add a bit of edge, I layered jewelry to add a modern edge to what was expected...i.e a cami. Not ready to commit to the no cami action...try layering styles like this and this underneath your blazer. It provides interest and steps up the camisole game.  Next time you're out looking for that LBD, look for a pair of lace,  printed or drapey crepe pants instead, like these.  It's flattering, sleek and can be paired with other styles in your closet to create different looks. Mama love options!!

the curls

I have so many happy outfits coming your way!! Brace yourself! I'm digging the subscribes and all the hearts. Let me know what you're ready for in your fashion horizon...Spring here we come, almost.

How navy + black became friends

When I was moving to Boise Idaho a few of my friends (ok more than a few) thought I was crazy. It was true...I was crazy IN LOVE with then boyfriend now hubby and knew I had to be here otherwise my heart would explode (drama queen).  I've also fallen for Boise in a big way :) This city has a unique vibe all on its own. As the years go by I can feel and see the city growing with the injection of culture on so many different platforms. Fashion in Boise is certainly on its way forward and I'm thrilled to be apart of the style journey. 

One of the things that excites me with my job is showing my clients the many varied ways they can wear their clothes. This includes mixing colors and prints they normally thought MUST be kept apart.  Black and navy is that taboo combination that I think we've all had on our style radar as a DON'T at some point. Here are a few of my ways to make it a definite "DO". Let the happy dance begin! WOO!

Pastel tones like this yummo melon brushed scarf works well to soften the navy and black.

I paired these black distressed skinnyjeans with a navy metallic sweater and printed pumps. It's simple and works because I said so (haha!! just kidding). If you want to pair your navy with black, I believe that one of the color must be textured. So we could pair this black pencil skirt with a cable knit navy sweater, like this .  This navy lace top ( so darling) with black skinny or boyfriend jeans. BTW, this is a great way to make those dressy pieces more casual. If the texture matches ( cotton with cotton, wool with wool)  then it looks like we got dressed in the dark and we don't want that...righttt. Eyes wide open :)

I'm working on some cool updates and projects coming your way on the blog and on my website.  I'm dying to share it with you!!! AHHHH!! You've asked and I now have an easy peasy and pretty aqua SUBSCRIBE button in the side bar for your fashion viewing pleasure. It's the new year and I know there are things on your style agenda that you want, need and are a must! Share away!! I'm listening :)

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!

10, 9, 8, 7, 6, 5, 4, 3, 2, 1 HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!

2016 will be spectacular!! Throw on some swanky goodness and let the party begin! Okay, you want to know what I'm rocking!! I'm a denim shirt lover and no one does it better than Current Elliott. I paired it with these must have, super comfy skinny jeans from Banana Republic. This was my first time trying their denim and it was a love y'all.

Dance...even if you're the only one on the floor!

A big awesome filled THANK YOU to my mountainman hubby ( this could be the year we upgrade the flannel- or maybe not), adorable stepdaughter, family and absolutely amazing friends that fill my happy cup. My vision would not be possible without the amazing photography talents of Deborah Hardee and Karen Krum ( hugging you both really hard right now). I feel the love and support and cannot express enough what that means to me!! Well I can try....it means the freaking world!!! The fashion filled adventure is going full force for 2016 and I'm so thrilled that you will be joining me along side some pretty awesome peeps!! It's going to be a great ride!!!!!

and so this is Christmas

"Laugh hard, love big and wear something fabulously YOU" LT

Do you feel it?! The laughter in the air! The happy tearing sounds of wrapping paper! ahhhhhhh!!! The gleeful squeals as you open up your presents that has the you know what inside that you've been wanting forever!! Hallelujah!!  In my mountain man case ( the Hubby), stuff and things are not high on his priority list. Therefore, I locate said stuff and things and voila... a herringbone gray tweed goodness is all mine...YAY!! He's happy, I'm thrilled....It works :")

I love the holidays. It makes me want to hug everyone even harder than I already do (it may inflict a few eye rolls but fa la la la la la la la la ). Believe it or not I'm not a huge gift person...WHAT????!!!!!! I know what you're thinking but let me explain. I grew up in a non traditional Jamaican home, where we cooked a ton and enjoyed being with each other most of the time. Everything was at a shouting level but once the protocol was explained that my family communicates on a speak loud and respond louder level, it was cool :) Stuff was secondary. So back to the gift situation. Don't get me wrong, I love the stuff/things but I know it's always there, so it's not a main focus during holiday happenings.

There's a bit of magic that I hold on to about Christmas. A few weeks ago, I got to attack my friend Sam's closet, so freaking FUN!!  In my "make it pretty mode", we found a ton of goodness, one of them being this amazing traditional Irish kilt that belonged to her mom Nancy. I loved them ALL and this was one of my faves. Nancy bought them more than 45 years ago while living in England with her husband, who was in the Air Force. SO COOL!! These kilts are beautiful and especially more meaningful because Nancy is no longer with us. I wanted Sam to know that she can rock these kilts in a modern chic way. Nancy would love it!! At times the "stuff" can seem trivial but then I get moments like this and it melts me.

This Banana Republic sweater is a cozy knit of chicness...my stepdaughter kept petting me because it's SO soft.

I'm all about a balancing act when it comes to my style. This ivory sweater added a simple texture to the traditional style of the kilt. The kilt was the main player and I wanted a soft co-star. I want you to find styles that bring meaning to you. Whether you found it on a road trip with your peeps, at a flee market, in your Moms closet or bought it with your first real cha-ching paycheck. Wear it and make it count.

I'm working on a bonus post for next week MONDAY 12-28-15 that brings the glam right to your screen and of course, I'll tell you where to get it. HELLO OUTFITS!!!! WOOHOO!!

I wish you ALL the most amazing holiday. I hope that it is filled with all sorts of good LOVE and stylish goodies. I feel incredibly blessed to have such awesome peeps in my life that love on me and I won't give it up. I'm loving you back ( insert big ass hug here). I want to know all about your holiday happenings. Was Santa good to you or does he have some explaining to do :) Share below, love on the little heart icon and lets spread some fashionable holiday cheer together!!! MUAH!!!!

WORK and play, PLAY and work

Wake up, get things done but first, coffee!

I had this moment in my life where I had to wear a uniform...I was in it 5 days a week, 8-10 hours a day. Each time I removed it from my body, I told myself that whatever it was I was planning on doing with my life...I WILL NOT WEAR A (insert expletive of choice) UNIFORM. I wanted to choose what I wore everyday, own it and feel good in it. That's a big part of why I'm a fashion stylist and my never ending obsession with fashion ( we are in a long term relationship and he put a ring on it).  I get the chance to make my clients feel great about what they wear...all the time.

Let's talk work wear. Looking professional means reflecting your confidence, competence and compassion on the outside. It presents itself before you even open your mouth to speak. Your professional attire should be the armor that allows you to speak confidently and go after your career goals like a champ. I am incredibly blessed to have the opportunity to style some amazing women who are at the top of their field. This commands looking polished, professional and respectful. My job is to tie in all those layers, make it stylish, womanly and of course with an element of fun!!

I'm going to get bossy so brace yourself.  There are two main styles that everyone should have have in their closets. The first, is a great fitting suit, like this one, that MUST BE tailored to your curves, NOT TIGHT, tailored. What makes an outfit look professional and stylish?? It comes down to FIT (amen).  The second must have is a classic blazer that can anchor any outfit. I'm a fan of this style and this one.  These styles are professional but injected with style and for the love of Carrie Bradshaw, some fun. I adore the soft pink blazer, so chic. If you can splurge and get that amazing goodness like this one (OMG, I WANT TO MARRY THIS BLAZER), #purchase.  If that doesn't vibe with your just out of college need to pinch your pennies but want to look great budget, then consider this one or this style... both have a great look that is classic and won't break your bank. Let me chime in again on fit...if the shoulder pad sits off your shoulder, it's too big or the lapel gaps outward or you must remove your blazer before driving your car (yep, yep...guilty), it's too small. It should feel comfortable but not to the point where you want to lounge on the sofa with your Cheetos and Netflix in it.

Wearing JCrew grey toothpicks denim, JCrew silk Carrie cami top and anchored with this cool as hell blazer by Maison Scotch.

This particular look can be worn in so many different ways. Each piece can be styled casually or dressed up to create another layer, so that I utilize what I have in my closet. It's a big part of what my style service provides. Mama does not like to see good clothing go unused...it makes me sad and I will not allow it.  Trust me, your wallet will thank me.

2016 will be here in 2 weeks!!! Seriously....are you excited and if not why the hell NOT?!!  WOW...I'm head over heels excited and ready to dive in. Come in with me, the water is great!! I'll continue bringing all things fashionable directly to you with some fun surprises in store. There's a party going down and you're invited. Not sure what to wear...let's just say I have you covered!!

I am loving HARD on all the great comments, texts and emails! It feels like the biggest and best HUG EVER!! Continue sharing and if your friends, friend, cousin, sister doesn't know...tell her to visit me, comment below and click the heart ( it's so pretty).