Monthly Favorite - Braided Belts

I've always been terrible about wearing belts - something about the belt is just uncomfortable.  The buckle always sticks out and if you want the belt to show you have to wear a short top.  It's so annoying!

Recently, belts have been appearing in a less traditional sense.  They are used to cinch the waist of a shapeless dress, add detail to an otherwise plain top, and are a great way to accessorized any look.  The most popular style currently is the braided belt - another throwback look that was very popular in the 70s.

I'm a big fan of the skinny belt when you use it as a simple accessory.  This Club Monaco Harper belt is great for just that.  I love how they have styled it with a feminine skirt.  It adds a little edge.

Club Monaco Harper Belt, $79

Other braided belts are used to cinch the waist when a style may not naturally define the waistline. It's a great way to make the outfit look more stylish and flattering.  To me, the dress below look so much better with this double braided belt - even on a model as skinny as she is!  

Rag & Bone Double Braid Belt, $175

Although I've shown you some more expensive options, you can always head to Target, Forever 21, and other retailers for a great selection of belts.  Just make sure you pick out the right belt for the right style.  Keep your tags on in case you have to return it!  

Monthly Favorite - White Watches

White watches have officially surpassed the "short-lived" trend phase and have emerged as a favorite summer look.

There are several different kinds of the white watch.  The most popular (and most expensive) is the ceramic band white watch.  They can range from $300+.  Although this look is gorgeous, you better be in love if you want to spend the extra dough!

Burberry, $995

Skagen, $275

For something more affordable, try the silicone or "jelly" band.  I'm a big fan of this sporty Marc Jacobs look.  It's got a classic look and looks great with the silver.  

Marc by Marc Jacobs 'Rock' Watch, $225

There's something about white that just makes me thing summer!  Heck, even the bride can rock a watch now :) 

Monthly Favorite - Chic Backpacks

Do you remember back in the 90s when little backpacks were all the rage?  Everyone was switching out their canvas crossbody purse for a little backpack.  Your biggest question when going out was one shoulder or two?

Well...the backpacks are back.  However, this time they are looking much more chic and are the perfect bag for the airport or a trip.  Most designers, being tech geeks themselves, have realized that if it won't fit all of your gadgets - you won't be buying it.  Therefore, these bags are not only fabulous looking...but they are also functional.

Always ahead of the curve, Marc Jacobs has emerged with some great pieces that fit the backpack trend.  I'm always loving his Marc by Marc Jacobs line thanks to it's youth-inspired look and luxurious leathers and colors.

Marc by Marc Jacobs Classic Q Backpack, $458 

Marc by Marc Jacobs Totally Turnover Backpack, $299.60

And of course, when Marc Jacobs does something everybody else jumps on board. 

Juicy Couture Flap Backpack, $378

Rebecca Minkoff Studded Backpack, $385

Almost makes me wish I was back in school :) 

Monthly Favorite - the Sleeveless Button Up

When it starts to get warmer it gets harder to look professional on the job or for special occasions when all you want to put on is a sweatshirt.  That's why I love that this season sleeveless button ups are in and easy to find!

Another reason why I like the sleeveless button up is that it's versatile.  It's hard to find a sleeveless top that you can wear to work - especially if your a little chesty.  I end up having to wear a cami underneath the blouse and a jacket or cardigan over the blouse that it ends up being a huge pain and I'm just as hot as I was before!

One of the ones that I've seen lately that I love is this Patterson J. Kincaid beauty.  It's shear and airy allowing for a great, breathable silhouette.

Patterson J. Kincaid Kayla Sleeveless Top

Great stores for these classic pieces are J.Crew, Gap, and Banana Republic.  You can guess that there classic chic style is perfect for this easy style.  I love this Military Tunic from J.Crew.  The tie cinches the waist and creates a slimming silhouette.  

J.Crew Military Tunic, $59.50

Or for something a bit more professional try this Banana Republic top.  I love the feminine touch of the ruffled shoulders!

Silk Swiss Dot Blouse, $69.50

Verstaile, Fresh, and Airy...and hopefully less sweat on those warm summer days!  

Monthly Favorite - the Messenger Bag

I've always loved the messenger bag.  It's the perfect bag for travel, business, and personal use.  If you find the right one, you can compartmentalize it as well.  Normally there are pockets on the outside or inside that allow you to throw in your lipgloss or necessities, your mobile device (or devices for me...), your laptop, and a book or a magazine.  Heck, some women even opt for a messenger bag as a diaper bag!

Linen fabrics are so popular this season, so it's no surprise that many messenger styles have emerged with the neutral colors and airiness that it provides.  I love this updated Cole Haan version.  It's seasonless and classic - meaning that you will get a ton of use out of it!

Cole Haan Varick Messenger Bag, $348 

And of course there are so many edgy styles to the updated messenger style.  In fact - some of these pieces don't even look like messenger bags!  Rebecca Minkoff is one of my favorite bag designers, and I love this leather and hardware that she's put on this piece.  Amazing!  

Rebecca Minkoff Main Squeeze Messenger, $395

And of course there's the mini messenger bag for the woman who wants a smaller version of this fashion favorite!  

Bryna Nicole Square Mini Messenger Bag, $231

You can never have enough bags...

Monthly Favorite - Colorful Bottoms

Now don't be confused, I don't want you to paint your rear end or go to the tanning bed and get scorched - I just want you to add a little color to your jeans or pants!  Fortunately, there are lots of options for those of you who want to go bold, or for some of us who want something more subtle.

Your stature definitely affects how you can wear this trend.  If you are tall - go all out!  You can wear red trouser pants like the Alice + Olivia pair below.  Pair them with a simple black top and nude colored shoes.  Everyone will be chatting about how sophisticated you look - very Jackie O!

Alice + Olivia High Waist Wide Leg Pants

I've always loved the tuxedo pant trend but with my short legs it usually ends up looking like I'm 5 and trying to wear my mom's clothes around the house - not pretty!  That's why I almost always have to go for a very tailored fitted straight leg pant.  In many cases these are ankle pants on people, but for me they are normally the perfect length!  I love this Jenni Kayne style.  

Jenni Kayne Straight Leg Pants $295 

And of course for you skinny legged ladies (who I despise - just kidding!) you can go for the cigarette style.  I love this light yellow look from J.Brand.  It makes me think of Grease or something the Pink Ladies would wear!  

J. Brand 11" Ankle Skinny Jeans, $172

Just remember to let the pants do the work and pair them with simple tops.  You will look incredible!

Crochet - Not just for your Grandma or Cat Lady

I have to admit that I kind of giggled to myself when I thought of my clever title.  No offense to you grandmas or cat ladies - we love each and every one of you in your own quirky way, but let's be honest...crocheting hasn't always had the best wrap.  I once took a interest in knitting and quit shortly thereafter.  Let's face it, some of us were just meant to buy the overpriced version at the store.  Hence, my May Favorite!

Crocheted pieces have been emerging on all of the runways - and some of them are as chic as they get.  I tend to go for intricate detailing and bright colors - so I love that this "hobby" has showed up in stores this season.

I love this dramatic Milly dress.  The brand Milly is so fabulous and luxurious - it's got that 60s and 70s flare while still being tailored and fitted.  One of my favorite aspects of this trend is that when you go bold - keep it simple with the accessories!  Pull out a classic pair of heels or sandals and a simple pair of studs - you're ready to go!

Milly Tangier Dress, $595

I also love this twenty8twelve vest.  Too bad I have a chest - b/c if I had more demure breasts (or mosquito bites as members of my family have been known to call them) I would totally rock this look!

Twenty8Twelve Amelie Crochet Vest, $270 

Not ready for something so bold?  No problem!  Head to accessories for a touch of this trend.  Here are a few of my faves!

Unleashed Juliette Crochet Ballet Flats, $110

Free People We the Free Crochet Top, $88

Just don't go overboard...we don't want you to look like your grandmother's afghan now!  

Monthly Favorite - Neutral Pieces

Neutrals have always been in - but this season keeping your whole look neutral that is no longer understated but completely on point!  There are so many ways to perfect this look - whether you throw on a sand colored dress, a pair of perfect sandals, or a classic top - you will look fabulous.

I'm always trying to find a romper that I can rock - and it's been extremely difficult.  However, I'm a big fan of this simple one from IRO.  What I love about the look (as with any neutral) is that you could take it so many different directions.  Throw on a colorful scarf or bold accessories to wear it out, or tone it down with flip flops to wear on a day out.

IRO Karia Romper, $235

I'm also a huge fan of this great top from Gap - for only $59.99 it's a classic top that you can pair as they have here, with a great pair of shorts, throw on a cardigan - so much versatility!  

Gap Cascade Trim Top, $59.95

Old Navy also has some fabulous neutral sundresses that are great for the summer!  I stumbled upon this crocheted look (another monthly favorite...) and I think it's great.  Accessorize with gold pieces to keep it neutral or throw on a belt and colorful accessories to bump it up!

Dumpling Dress, $24.95

So simple, so chic, so versatile...no problems!  

XOXO, Allison

An April Favorite - Water Repelling Wellies!

April Showers...are here.  And I don't know about you, but I HATE when the bottoms of my pants get soaking wet from the rain.

After moving from a home to an apartment, I forgot how much I would be going in and out letting my 2 boys Snickers and Rufus out.  I also didn't realize that Memphis gets a lot of popcorn showers...and of course the area that the dogs love is always flooded.  I basically ruined my UGG slippers from stepping in a huge puddle.  Ugh.  That's why I have been on the search for some Wellies and let me tell you that there are some great pairs out there.  

Now when it comes to a purchase like this, I have to go with function over fashion.  Fortunately, there are some brands that offer both.  I've tried the cutesy ones, and let me tell you - they don't keep all the water out!  Gross!  Nothing worse than trapped, damp feet. 

I have eyeing the Hunter Classic rain boots for quite some time now.  When I lived in Indianapolis, snow boots were a need over rain boots, so I could never justify the purpose.  However...with all of this moisture down south it is getting harder to resist.  

Hunter Classic Tall High Gloss, $125

Now these babies are not cheap - so you better get a lot of use out of them if you decide to purchase.  The boots run $125 and have extras like socks for the colder weather months which range from $30-50.  Like I said, it better be a need!

A few friends have pointed me in the direction of Tretorn.  For about half the price, you get a great boot that is already lined - no needed for the boot socks.  My cousin's favorite attribute of these boots is the optional style with the "converse all star" white sole - allowing you to wear them all day.  

Tretorn Skerry Rubber Rain Boot, $60 

Not a fan of the white "tennis shoe" bottom?  No problem!  Here's something a little more traditional - also from Tretorn.  

Tretorn Kelly Rubber Rain Boot, $65

Still need something with a little extra something.  Well, Kamik offers rain boots in patterns and bright colors as well - for those of you who need a little girly in your rain boot.

Kamik Janis Plum, $48

Now you'll actually forward to the rain when you step out in any of these great boots!  Who wants to jump in puddles? 

XOXO, Allison

An April Favorite - New Fashion Line Twenty8Twelve

You have to admit that any fashion line backed up my Sienna Miller would be a success...but with her designing the line and modeling for it - it's a sure in.  Sienna has been a style icon more well known for her bohemian style rather than her acting chops.  Well, and there is that relationship with Jude.

Twenty8Twelve is a fashion line created by Sienna and her sister Savannah.  The goal of the line was to bring the natural coolness factor of young London to life in a clothing line.  The line offers something for everyone - with funky high waisted shorts, bold patterned dresses, and a romper that I would buy in a heartbeat if I could pull it off.  Honestly, I don't know how you could possibly look uncool in this line.

Here are some of my favorite pieces - enjoy!

Bow Shorts, $315

Ava Romper, $395

Marigold Dress, $180

Auriole Crochet Skirt, $280

Now if only I could look like Sienna Miller.  A girl can dream...

XOXO, Allison

An April Favorite - BRIGHT Separates

As Joan Rivers said on Fashion Police, "who would have thought Sinbad had it right all of these years?"

Well, bold and bright separates are in right now - and the bolder the combination the better.  Stars have recently been shown pairing purple pants with orange tops - and making the best dressed lists!  If done right, this look can be exceptional!

Joe Jonas ex, Camilla Belle

One of my favorite sites, Shopbop has dedicated an entire lookbook to this trend and here are some looks that I am dying to emulate!  

I'm obsessed with how chic and fun this Rachel Roy blouse and skirt look together.  It looks like the perfect look to hit the town on for a casual luncheon with the girls.  Unfortunately, most of us aren't on the Real Housewives of (Insert your city here) so we can afford $700 on a "social" outfit.  So here's how to mimic this look for less. 

Frenchi Silky Sleeveless Tunic, $32

Express Quilted Wristlet, $15.90

T-Bags Skirt $160

Another look from the look book that really stood out to me was this gorgeous purple and pink  ensemble.  Now as most of you know, purple is my favorite color so perhaps I am a bit biased.  Again, a bit expensive for the girl on a budget.  

So here's how to achieve the look for less. 

Purple Skirt, American Apparel - $54

Clear Frame Sunglases, $16.99

Loft by Ann Taylor Woven Back Pullover, $20

So say hello to  brights and jump on the bandwagon. This is when my engineer mind needs to walk out the door and my very minute artsy side needs to take over - the more eclectic the better!

XOXO, Allison