4 Pieces That Creates Outfit Wow

Photography bliss with the uber talented Denise of Studio Boise

"Mmmmmm".... that's the sound I sometimes I make when I see a style that will "up" my wardrobe game. Yep, that's the same "mmmm" sound that Homer Simpson makes as he embarks on a deliciously glazed donut. Now I want a donut...okay let's focus people. What's all this about other than the need to now eat a donut?! Well my awesome peeps, it's about 4 styles that we've all seen that can make an ordinary outfit climb the "wow" scale. 

1. Stripe top                       2. Pencil skirt                    3. Blazer             4. Ankle boots            

These styles are classic, plays well with other pieces, looks great on every shape and my fave, affordable!

Stripe Top 

I have yet to meet a stripe top that I didn't love. I mean, it's so good!!! The DNA of a stripe top: creates an automatic classic look, adds pattern/ interest and can be found in a price range that doesn't break the style bank. I went with this fitted bodysuit from Nordstorm Rack that was a major score. I'm talking under $10 people!

Pencil Skirt

Don't be scared as I mention this style. The game is changing on pencil skirts. That means there are so many more styles out there to flatter those yummy curves or in my case lack thereof.  It's classic ( see the trend here) and allows you to inject a feminine style which can be edged up by changing up the texture or pattern. This luscious mustard suede skirt I'm wearing is by Topshop and also a great find from Nordstorm Rack. This style is a bit high waisted which makes this look scream chic and it's so comfy!!

Blazer

Oh the fun to be had with blazers. Get out there and just try on a few. It can be tailored or boyfriendy ( aka loose fit). Whichever you choose, it'll bring a serious dose of style to your looks. The bevy of prices can vary but it really comes down to fit. If it looks great, get it!! I'm wearing a great find by Rag and Bone that I snagged on sale at Fancy Pants in downtown Boise. I've worn this blazer with shorts, denim, over a dress....I could go on. The masculine element of a blazer paired with all of our ladylike assets screams style wow....yes please!

I was probably texting you ;)

Ankle boots

You guys know that I will preach it all day every day...I refuse to be uncomfortable! Why? Because there is so many styles out there that provide comfort and yasss girlll, looks amazing!! One of my go to in my shoe arena is a great pair of ankle boot!! Comfy, versatile and provides a modern fresh look to any outfit. I'm a fan of a lower ankle boot like these when wearing skirts. They show off the ankle and creates a leaner silhouette.  These are one of my new favorite pairs on heavy rotation from Target. YASS!! Target. That's the great thing about style, you can find it any and everywhere. 

If you snag any of these styles let me know!! I love LOVE hearing your comments and feedback. It keeps this poofy hair gal on her style toes ;)

Get dress + do GOOD

Wearing this tuxedo lapel blazer with my favorite tee from The Stitch.

As a stepmom, I want nothing more than to do everything in my powers to help my stepdaughter be a great human. I want her to know, TO KNOW, that she's capable of anything. That means allowing her to learn that progress requires productive action from her, no matter the size. She is kind, smart, conscientious and pretty darn cute. With Valentines day approaching, I wanted to do something that highlighted more than just the flowers and candy. So I thought I'd share what's near and dear to my heart by featuring styles that look great( hello outfits) and contribute to an even bigger cause (Hello "doing GOOD").

I met Matt Pipkin a few years ago and we immediately clicked. He's a ball of energy (like myself) and funny as hell (I ain't too shabby ;)  Matt is the founder of Speak your Silence a nonprofit on a mission to end the stigma associated with child sexual abuse. 100%, yes 100% of public donations and profits from the Stitch funds in-person, one-on-one counseling nationwide for those personally affected by sexual abuse. Maybe it's age or just life making a little more sense to me, I'm more mindful of what steps I can take to make a difference. I think that's what creates the volume for change, is each and every individual making efforts within their own arena to foster a movement.

"I want people to smile more...it feels better and looks better" LT

I've had the opportunity to participate with Matt and the amazing team of Speak Your Silence whenever needed to support his cause. This awesome tee that I'm rocking is a very cool part of how you and I can support the Stitch. The Stitch represents a non-verbal way to communicate your support and really make the conversation happen without as Matt puts it "...feeling heavy and dreary".  Speak your silence has created a space that "...moves child sexual abuse from a taboo issue to an inspiring cause that you can be excited to champion." Matt presented a great feature on his SYS blog that really touched the core of it's mission. You can read it here. He mentions that "It became clear to me that child sexual abuse is not a cause, but rather, it’s an issue. There’s a BIG difference. To me, issues represent problems; problems with no obvious solutions. They don’t leave me feeling excited, but instead, feeling heavy. Causes, on the other hand, represent solutions. They inspire me to take action. They leave us feeling enthusiastic, feeling good about ourselves, and feeling confident about a bright future." I couldn't have said it any better if I tried. I have about 20 different ways to rock this awesome tee and it comes in gray!! LOVE!!! Learn more by clicking here, your outfits and your heart will thank you.

When I decided to start my own personal fashion stylist service it was to feed my endless passion for all things style and design but also to create a platform where fashion was accessible and intimidation free. I want you to feel great about how you look which builds confidence and is empowering. Style then functions as this great supporting role that acts as a catalyst for you to conquer your fears and make a difference in your own way. I want to use my passion as a way to fuel a path which leads to making an impact for the better.  Sounds a bit cheesy but oh how life changing it can be.  I'm doing a little happy dance because there is so much GOODNESS, awesome outfits and great features coming up. I feel blessed that I get to share it ALL with you!! The love is real y'all!!! Comment, share and do GOOD!! MUAH :)

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.

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).