The back-to-school time of year marks the end of the summer, but it’s also an exciting time of year. Kicking off the school year in style always made me feel confident & prepared for whatever challenges were to come. While I’m no longer in the student phase of my life, I love checking out the newest back-to-school must-haves, especially since I’m always working on writing projects & reading in my spare time. There’s nothing wrong with a little stylish touch on with your school accessories, no matter what level of education you’re in. I’m mad for colorful paperclips & sticky notes for efficient note-taking, as well as personal journals for writing prompts. Also, being comfortable when I’m home studying or preparing something is essential, especially when I have to “tote” a lot of materials with me from one spot to another. Here are just a few affordable & fashionable extras to keep you organized, inspired, & stylish for the upcoming academic calendar.
What back-to-school accessories are you shopping for? Where do you go for the best in back-to-school? What favorites help you stay inspired from year to year? Happy Styling!
Retailers are currently faced with the challenge to reach shoppers in a new & innovative way, while trying to remain relevant, especially when online shopping is so prevalent. The ever-popular Target is headed in a new direction with A New Day, or A.N.D., an in-house collection of apparel, shoes, & accessories for any female shopper. This is evident in the availability of sizes from XS – 4X, ranging in price from $8 – $49.99. The line is full of fashionable fall finds, including denim, menswear inspiration, street pieces, outerwear, & more chic separates that will take shoppers from work to weekend to days off in style.
The line hits stores just in time for back to school shopping on August 27th. It’s sure to make a stylish splash, especially when seeking trend items like pleated skirts, military jackets, & bell sleeve shirts. A New Day comes just in time for Target’s change in clothing too, since announcing the phasing out of popular, staple brands like Merona & Mossimo.
Will you be shopping this new collection at Target? What are your favorite pieces from the line? Do you shop Target for new fall fashion must-haves? Happy Styling!
Summer is typically the season of the big earring (for me) since I don’t love feeling heavy metals layered on my skin during a humid & sticky day. However, when I’m headed to work or for a special occasion with friends, knowing that I’ll be in air conditioning changes the way I think about my outfit & accessories. I’ve been spotting so many gorgeous statement & bib necklaces lately, each that are perfect for these last days of summer in fun pops of color & whimsical designs. Also, discounted prices play a big role in what I’m willing to invest in, especially as my accessories collection grows!
Statement necklaces definitely do make a statement, which can be anything from elegance, confidence, & a chic sensibility. Even though they’re bold, statement necklaces work for outfits that include both patterns & solids, creating an interesting, layered look. Try one of these affordable options over a little black dress, printed maxi dress, blouse & jeans, or graphic tee & leather mini.
Do you like to wear statement necklaces? Which colors do you gravitate towards? What metals are your favorite to wear? How do you style bold accessories? Happy Styling!
Tonight marks the sixteenth season premiere of Lifetime’s Project Runway, the Emmy-winning series that showcases up-and-coming fashion designers who are challenged by time crunches & unconventional materials to create beautiful art. I’ve been watching the show since the very beginning, enthralled by the creative process & style inspiration. In celebration of the show’s newest season, JCPenney has debuted a new Project Runway Collection inspired by season 15 winner, Erin Robertson. The line features a fun & playful mix of separates & dresses in plaid scuba, yellow lace, & classic black lace to be mixed with street style favorites & elegant must-haves. The affordable & fashionable collection ranges in sizes XS-XXL & is priced between $24.99 (when on sale) – $44. Here are just a few of my top picks & I can’t wait to shop these pieces in stores, checking out their fit & the many ways to wear them with my current wardrobe staples.
If you haven’t already seen what’s to come on the newest season of Project Runway, check out the trailer below to get a first glance at the runway fashions & all the behind-the-runway drama!
Are you a fan of Project Runway? Are you excited about the newest season premiere? What fall trends are you loving? Where are you shopping for the newest fashions? Happy Styling!
The wave of celebrity fashion collaborations is still going strong & now that the best of fall fashion is hitting stores, there’s so much more glam on my style wish list, including pieces from Gabrielle Union’s collection for New York & Company.
The line is a blend of street style chic & high fashion with plenty of sleek dresses & modern separates that you can mix & match with your current favorite wardrobe staples. Shop the gorgeous & classic styles, ranging from size 0-20 & priced between $46.95 – $139.95, but if you sign up for store coupons, you can definitely get some great discounts on these must-have trends!
Which looks are you most excited to shop? What do you think of the sleek collection? How much do you invest in celebrity / designer collaborations? What fall trends are you interested in this season? Happy Styling!
In its fairest shade, pink is a neutral, perfect for matching up with nearly any spring, summer, or fall outfit. I myself do love a rose gold flat with some black tights, if the look demands it, in the winter too! And why shouldn’t a blush shoe be a neutral? It works very well for the upcoming fall season as well with a slew of hues, including navy, chocolate, olive, charcoal, burgundy, cobalt, mustard, hunter green, & so many more!
With all that build up, it’s no surprise that the pretty pink flats I’m featuring are not only pretty & pink, but also, they’re versatile considering their texture & design. I’ve never been a huge fan of the pink family, but over the years, my heart has started to skip a stylish beat when I see some rose gold jewelry. That’s extended into eyeshadow & accessories like shoes & belts too. However, for fall, take a look at these dressy, luxe, & feminine designs @Charlotte Russe to inspire a pop of pink where you might not have previously.
What’s your go-to shoe color? Do you wear dressy ballet flats? Where are you shopping for the trendiest footwear this season? How do you like to wear pink? Happy Styling!
I’m a big believer in getting the most use out of an item as I possibly can. That means that not only am I considering how many seasons I’m wearing something, but also how many different ways a piece can be worn. While I’m a sucker for black & white looks, I also love a colorful piece that way I can play up my neutral & bolder separates to give something new life.
For example, during a recent venture to Target, I perused through their clothing department, knowing that I couldn’t buy anything (budget, budget, budget), but since I’m always seeking inspiration, I excused the detour as necessary for my blog. My eye immediately spotted the Merona stripe pleated skirt, which is available in sizes XS-XXL, & its colorful stripe pattern made my head spin with styling possibilities for spring, summer, & fall. To get the most use out of wearing a garment like this (with tops tucked into the waist-cinching band, of course), here are just six stylish examples. Not to mention that you can layer sleeveless tops with pretty cardigans or neutral jackets (like khaki, denim, or olive camou) to offset the bold color palette.
Because of the skirt’s delicate material & playful hues, I wouldn’t recommend it for winter, unless you live somewhere majestically sunny like southern California for those chillier months, perhaps with a ribbed turtleneck & cognac knee boots. Since I live on Long Island, I can’t fathom what it’s like to live somewhere without the extremes of both summer & winter.
However, the styling doesn’t end there, nor does the flair. The busy design & colors of the skirt shouldn’t hinder you from having fun with accessories either. Think of all the opportunities this skirt has to offer, as well as combinations of colors to wear when it comes to a statement necklace or dangly earrings.
How would you style this skirt? What colors do you like to play with most in your wardrobe? Where are you shopping for the best deals on summer-to-fall transition pieces? Do you like to go bold with texture, pattern, & sparkle for your looks? Happy Styling!
From the day-to-day, I am committed to the same one handbag to get me through my shifts at work, out with my boyfriend, and everywhere in between. I’m usually wearing just one bag for as long as I possibly can before switching from a lighter spring-summer design to something darker & more durable for the fall-winter months. However, when I spot a cute bag, my heart does do a little flutter. That’s exactly what happened when I spotted these lavender bags from New York & Company. I immediately pictured how I could style them, with a head-to-toe all-white look, a floral summer frock with wedges, & a little black dress accessorized with a pop of pastel.
Would you use a lavender bag? How would you incorporate pastels with your fall wardrobe? What’s your go-to handbag style? Where do you shop for your favorite accessories? Happy Styling!
This time of the summer is when retailers are rearing to go with the newest fall items for shoppers to clamor over. This includes trend items that might not stand the test of time, but there are definitely some worth seeking. For inspiration on the best of the newest arrivals for the next season, it’s easy to turn to luxury designers & brands. Those styles trickle down the price point pole & then look-alike items finally become affordable for a Style Darling on a budget.
One example is the lace-up ballet flat, a stylish option to help transition your wardrobe from summer to fall. The below styles range in prices from $685 (wowie!) to $24.99. These are examples of the next level of the ballet flat craze that’s obviously not going anywhere. What will designers think of next? A black ballet flat doesn’t have to be basic anymore, especially when styled with a little black dress or blouse & silk shorts ensemble.SHOP: 1. Gianvito Rossi flats @Neiman Marcus, 2. Sam Edelman flats @Bloomingdale’s, 3. MICHAEL Michael Kors flats @Macy’s, 4. lace-up flats @LOFT, & 5. SO flats @Kohl’s.
Which designers do you follow & invest in? What trends do you buy for less? Where are your favorite places to shop for shoes? What are you most looking forward to wearing for fall? Happy Styling!
Whenever I see a garment or item, the imaginative wardrobe archive in my mind starts churning out options of how to style it. I love considering how a statement necklace can be worn with both a dress and blouse, as well as how a jacket can transform other separates. It’s very rare that I invest in an item that I can only wear one way, although there are some outfits that I’ve repeated because it just feels perfect, which is usually the case, I find, with summer clothing.
I was immediately inspired by the jersey top with ruffles @H&M as soon as I saw it an email I recently received. I began to consider its styling possibilities. I love the subtle ruffle sleeve detail, which elevates it as a trend piece above other long sleeve tops. I was a little hesitant to share this one top specifically & singularly because it is only available in sizes XS – XL. I’ve been on a mission to blog about pieces that can reach readers of any size or shape, which is why I set out to find another trendy red & white striped top for plus size shoppers too. That’s how I found the Belle + Sky off the shoulder top @JCPenney, another unique & fashionable shirt that’s a step above the ordinary stripe tee & can transform your summer style.
However, when looking at clothes, I also like to consider how many seasons a piece is relevant for, which is why I’m styling both tops with affordable options for the summer (because there is still plenty of the season left to enjoy!) and fall (an exciting time to play with texture).
Stripes should never be feared by any shopper, especially when an off the shoulder trendy top is both flattering and versatile when headed to a night on the boardwalk or with a fall business casual ensemble.
With that, I’m always on the lookout for a little something extra to add some sparkle to my daily look. More than statement necklaces (which might be hard to believe), I’m all about earrings. I have five piercings in each ear, so I’m always playing around with what I like to call either a cocktail or bouquet of studs to create a pretty & interesting design of earrings each & every day. These studs usually range in flowers, sparkles, stones, & other objects like fruits or animals to make a seriously stylish look a little more playful & humorous.
A pair of earrings that I recently discovered & love is the opaque shimmer solitaire studs @Charming Charlie. Not only are these amazing & versatile studs $5, but they’re available in 23colors!
Which color is your favorite? Do you like to wear big statement studs? How would you style these earrings? What’s your budget for fashion jewelry? Happy Styling!
For this summer, I’ll admit that my shoe game isn’t always the win that it could be, mostly because I’m always on the go, whether I’m headed to work, hitting up a local festival, & running errands, all while beating the heat. I’ve stuck to my favorite ballet flats, flip-flops, & most sparkling sandal flats, saving my high heels & wedges for only the most very special of occasions. This means that I haven’t made good use out of all my heels this summer (I’m nodding a bit in style shame), but comfort is also such a big deal because I’d never want how my feet feel to dictate if I’m having a good time while out with my beau or working the day away. With this, there’s one thing I can’t deny—a shoe sale!
That brings me to the Taylor cut-out tie heels @dressbarn in navy. I have the blush pair, which were such a big hit when I wore them this spring (though quantities are now very slim fr the paler neutral). I had no idea that the heels also came in a navy—a tricky color for those all-blue looks when you just don’t know what to wear since navy is uncommon, as opposed to a go-to black option. I love that these heels (originally $45 & now they’re only $14.99 on sale!) are so feminine & fancy, while also lending a modern edge when matched with a fit & flare dress, blouse & skinny jeans, or graphic tee & denim skirt. Like I always say, “Oh the styling possibilities!
Keep in mind that this time of year is one of the best to shop for in-season sale items, especially when there are so many coupons available (don’t delete those emails!) to get you some extra discounts on stylish finds, just like these heels! While all the fall goodies are hitting the racks, retailers are marking down perfectly wearable summer pieces (though varieties & sizes might be limited) that can elevate your summer style with bargain-priced shoes, a statement necklace, flirty shirt dress, or an on-trend, off the shoulder top.
So, it’s definitely been a minute since my last Darling of the Day post (hello 07/18/2016 with Gwyneth Paltrow!). Trends are always changing—I’m not so crazy about all this 90s-inspiration returning. Also, life is just busy & there’s so much to talk about. However, I just recently came across this image of Oscar-winning actress Jennifer Lawrence (whose new movie Mother! looks terrifying) who was out & about in New York City this summer wearing the most elegant & casual of outfits that anyone can pull off. I knew I had to share the styling details, especially since so many of these pieces probably already reside in our wardrobes. What makes this look so special is Jennifer’s uber chic Elsa Peretti knotted necklace that completely elevates the whole ensemble from casual to genius. I’m always saying that accessories have the power to transform a look & here’s the proof with one simple gold necklace.
The ingredients for Jennifer’s look are easy to put together: white tank, black skinny jeans, & a gold knotted, tassel necklace. Here are three sources to recreate this outfit for the budget-minded shopper of any size because you shouldn’t have to sacrifice your entire income for your style.
In addition, Jennifer’s outfit gets some help from classic tortoise sunglasses, a minimalist black crossbody bag, & platform wedges so she can live her most stylish & best A-list life.
When it comes to putting together an outfit, one of two things will happen for me. First, I’ll plan ahead of time for a special occasion what I’d like to wear to honor or celebrate whatever the event is—& I won’t budge away from that outfit idea. On the other hand, for day-to-day styling, I simply go by however I feel. I consider the weather, how long of a work day is ahead of me, where I’m headed socially, as well as how I’m feeling health-wise to measure how much I’m willing to fuss with a garment. While it might look like a lot goes into an outfit, sometimes spur of the moment ideas hit me & I’ve created something unique & detailed.
However, when I want to experiment with my wardrobe to try something new with staple items (usually a cardigan, belt, statement necklace, or dress), my instincts lead me to pattern mixing, which is just my kind of fashion risk & something that I’ve happily & successfully explored over the last year. I love discovering the result of pairing stripes with florals or animal prints with polka dots, as well as metallics with chevron, just to have some fun while reinventing old favorites in a new way. When taking a fashion leap just such as this, I make sure that accompanying items are subtle, such as a patent leather flat, black pant, or opaque tights.
Last week, I was inspired to play with some new fall finds from dressbarn, pieces that are also perfect for a cool summer afternoon too. As soon as I saw the black & white tiered floral blouse & diamond print ankle pants, I knew I loved them, but hadn’t immediately thought of putting the pieces together. A black & white color combination is possibly my favorite because of its timeless & clean vibe for any season. When I play around with mixing patterns, I always keep in mind that the best way to execute an ensemble is by keeping with the color scheme. I added an extra special touch to finish off the look with my older floral printed pointy toe flats (shop similar here), a classic denim jacket (shop here), & silver jewelry (shop similar here) since the busy patterns need neutral companion accessories.
Of course, either of these pieces can be styled in multiple ways. For example, the blouse would look cute with a pretty pink cardigan & skinny jeans, but it can also be a flirty option for night with a blazer & leather leggings. The printed ankle pants are screaming for a pop of color with a bold yellow tank & cobalt heels, or with a red turtleneck for fall & embellished ballet flats.
For a little more black & white mixed print inspiration, here are a few more pieces in classic patterns like polka dots, stripes, floral, & houndstooth to get you thinking about all the ways to wear these two very versatile & chic colors.
Lastly, when seeking some style inspiration, I usually turn to Pinterest, which is where I can find some amazing red carpet & street style shots of my favorite fashionista celebrities who are experimenting on the daily, just like me, when it comes to mixing prints. Some admirable & professional pattern pushers are style icons Olivia Palermo, Solange Knowles, & Jamie Chung.
Look how each of these fashion forward ladies uses neutrals to play up the busier pieces of their outfits, while also offering a sense of balance among the stylish chaos of their outfits. Olivia uses a black blazer as a topper, as well as gold ankle strap heels for some glamorous edge. Solange is all about yellow with her handbag & cropped pants. Finally, Jamie’s gray booties & black heels complete her effortless looks.
Do you like to mix patterns in your outfits? What questions do you have about this risk-taking outlook? Which celebrities do you turn to for style inspiration? How do you feel about the classic black & white trend? Happy Styling!
When it comes to summer, there are so many prints that make for a fashionable look, but among them, gingham gets top billing! The typical gingham button down is classic for a variety of outfits, but this summer is all about the trendy, off-the-shoulder, ruffle, or halter gingham top available for shoppers of all sizes! Celebrities even love gingham, as seen on Baby Driver star Lily James, style blogger Olivia Palermo, singer / actress Vanessa Hudgens, A-lister & fashion mogul Reese Witherspoon, & Shameless actress Emmy Rossum.
For a trendy, one-season item like a gingham top, you don’t have to break the bank. There’s so much fashion out in the world & online for shoppers of all budgets, but I do love checking out high-end designer duds for a little inspiration when it comes to finding something to write about, as well as putting together my next outfit. Here are a few examples that range in price from $88 – $265, but still worth keeping an eye on for an end of the season sale item.
The six gingham tops below are much more affordable & perfect for styling with white skinny jeans, red chino shorts, a denim skirt, or with bottoms in a bold pop of color like yellow, green, or orange.
Which summer trends are on your wardrobe wish list? Do you prefer the black, navy, or red gingham color scheme? Where are you shopping for summer favorites? Happy Styling!
Right now is a very interesting time for fashion & retail. Summer is here & thriving, the best seasonal styles are on sale, but also, the newest fall pieces are starting to hit stores. More than anything, I want to stay in a summer state of mind, especially since the weather has been beautiful, just sunny enough & not oppressively hot (at least here on Long Island). My eye keeps catching what’s next for fall, which brings me to this Roz & Ali lace bell sleeve sweater @dressbarn, available in both misses & plus sizes.
The lightweight top is both flattering & versatile when it comes to styling. The airy, feminine sleeves are my favorite part, inspiring me to think about other patterns & color schemes to experiment with. Since these summer evenings have been on the cooler side lately, this is the perfect top for now & next season too. Making the investment in future pieces that you can wear now is the best way to get the most use out of your wardrobe. However, I especially love the always classic look of black and white separates, which is perfect for Style Darlings of any age or size.
Styling the sweater with a pair of shorts offers a polished look for a weekend brunch with some sandals & drop earrings. A pencil skirt is party-ready with a statement necklace & strappy heels. For a relaxed feel, a maxi skirt is easy-breezy when paired with wedges & layering necklaces. Lastly, cozy palazzo pants are effortless & cool for a day of errands or casual Friday at the office with ballet flats & stud earrings.
When I’m styling other women, I always encourage them to try pieces that can not only be worn multiple ways, but also for multiple seasons. This ensures that the garment’s value is really worth it. While I don’t want to wish summer away, I can’t get over all the possibilities for this sweater. Here are a few more suggestions of how you can play up your best fall style when coordinated with any black lacy sweater for work, day, date, or weekend.
What pieces do you have your eye on this season? What fall trends are you most looking for to next? What staple items do you get the most wear from? Happy Styling!
Summer is all about no-fuss style. While I sometimes fuss & muss over what I’m going to wear in order to be comfortable when running from work to do some errands to going out with my beau, the temperature continues to rise. Effortless comfort is most important in the end, even when I want to wear a scuba dress & some wow-worthy high heels. However, what’s more fuss-free than a canvas sneaker? I know, some jaws might be hitting the floor at my mention of a sneaker here on Style Darling Daily.
I’ve never been much of a sneaker fan, only because I don’t find most sneakers attractive. I’ve owned the same one pair for years that I’ll break out for the occasional woodsy walk or hiking venture. Sneakers have an athletic function & not much of a presence in my life when I’ve found so many comfortable ballet flats that I can wear for work & while going about my daily routine. Aside from that, sneakers have just never equaled fashion to me… until now. Sneakers have taken on this whole new street style vibe, as seen on celebrities in Converse & tennis shoes, such as style icon Olivia Palermo, singer Rihanna, performer Dita Von Teese, as well as models Gigi Hadid & Karlie Kloss.
As a kid, I grew up wearing Keds-adjacent sneakers since the look-alikes at Caldor (remember Caldor?) & other bargain-centric stores were just more reasonable for my budget-conscious family. The white canvas material would only stay white for about a day until the remnants of nature, as well as the wear & tear of childhood stained the exterior. Honestly, I never quite looked back on that shoe style until today when I received an email from Payless about their latest canvas collection, featuring shoes in up to 17 different colors & pattern varieties, ranging in a limited time sale price from $10-$15, available in women’s sizes 5-13, with their summer-ready American Eagle Bal Sneaker.
When I ooo-ed & ahh-ed at these cute options, I began to imagine how to style these sneakers, especially with sweet & casual summer dresses. Of course, any of these dresses can be worn with wedges, sandals, or heels to add a little more dressy flair when headed out for a night on the town, but why not consider a sneaker if you’re going to the local carnival, on a sunset walk, or just enjoying a casual lunch with some friends?
The yellow-red combination might not be for everyone, but the primary color mix of the linen blend swing dress @Old Navy (available in sizes XS-XXL) with the bold red sneakers is a daring & summery way to play with color blocking, especially when paired with a denim jacket & layering necklaces!
White is the color of the summer & you really can’t go wrong with this ruffle off the shoulder dress @Express when looking at all the footwear possibilities. You could wear the purple eyelet or the dark blue stripe one day & then embrace the chambray polka dot sneaker the next! This look can be styled with some colorful tassel earrings & a basket weave belt too!
Some days, even in the summer, we just wanna wear black. Maybe it’s a New York thing, but here we can turn the dark hue into something playful & casual-chic with the plus cargo dress @H&M & the black eyelet sneakers. Try a gold chain choker & chunky ring to dress up the monochromatic look!
Lastly, use online coupon code 15CANVAS for an additional 15% off, expiring 07/09/17, because we could all use a little help when it comes to summer shopping! What’s your take on the summer sneaker-dress combination? What color combinations are you looking to try this season? Where are you shopping for your favorite footwear finds? Happy Styling!
One of my favorite things to do when I wake up in the morning (without the ring of a rowdy alarm clock) is to check my email. While I’ve been trying to discipline myself to disconnect from technology a little more each day, especially in the summer where there’s just so much to do & plenty of fresh air & sunshine to take in, I can’t help but still be a little obsessed with clicking through emails from my favorite retailers, blogs, & fashion news sources. It’s like having my own personal fashion show & bargain shopping experience while I’m still in the comfort of my own bed. With that, I’ve created SHOP NOW!, a new category of blog posts here on Style Darling Daily where I’ll be sharing the most exciting fashion buys & sales from the day. These are the styles that make me do a double take, inspire me to explore the latest in fashion, & even get me excited to get ready for another stylish day. So let’s get to it!
Getting into the spirit of summer isn’t hard to do, but when you can’t find anything to wear (oh, I’ve been there!) & you’re on a budget, there are plenty of options to resolve your style rut! Classic tops, flirty dresses, chic shoes, & effortless accessories are the key ingredients to a summer of superb style. Right now, TJ Maxx is having a major clearance event with plenty of brand names items, seasonal essentials, & trendy must-haves for unbelievable prices. Keep in mind that when it comes to clearance sales, sizes & quantities are sometimes limited, but finding a last chance deal makes for a great story!
These tops are perfect for a cool night with a pair of skinny jeans, headed to the local festival in cut-off shorts & sandals, or mixing it up with capris & wedges for a sophisticated summer take.
Like this season’s hottest summer tops, dresses with ruffles & cold shoulders are the way to go. These affordable & versatile dress options can be accessorized in so many ways with statement necklaces or layering chains, espadrilles or peep toe flats, & belted or not!
It wouldn’t be summer without a fun & flirty shoe. While I’m always touting comfort as my first shoe priority, I love how a neutral wedge offer balance & elegance to a floral frock, whereas something with interesting details like polka dots, a laser cut trim, or animal prints can really express your personality & create some lovely style memories.
Playing with accessories can completely revamp an old favorite like a shirt dress or t-shirt & jeans. Seek out details like pattern or texture in your extras. When it comes to jewelry, a mix of sparkle & simplicity is always the best way to go,
Where are you shopping for your best summer deals? Which store emails do you wait for in the morning? What seasonal trends are you seeking on sale? What’s your summer shopping budget? Happy Styling!
The word “lemonade” will never be the same. Thanks in part to Beyoncé’s epic album, the “when life gives you lemons, make lemonade” cliché is reaching a whole new generation, and it’s inspiring me to continue to stay positive no matter what lemons roll at my feet. Lately, life overall has been pretty lemon-free, in that I am happy. Life is good. It’s summer. I’m in a wonderfully fulfilling relationship. The most important people around me are well.
However, as a writer, there’s this complicated thing that always happens when I’m actually happy: I can’t write. That’s because I have this unconscious routine of writing best when I’m in desperate need of answers, struck with worries of the heart and soul. While I’m always in search of what’s next for Style Darling Daily, my writing, and my professional life, I’m not necessarily haunted by any lack of progress to the degree where I have to write it all out to come up with a plan to advance my career. When I’m happy personally, I’m much more carefree with other parts of my life. My hard-working nature isn’t any less apparent, but I let inspiration find me like a cinematic meet cute. Inspiration is like an old friend I run into at Starbucks. I know the words are there, but I can’t always find them.
Well, since I’m writing now, there must be something on my mind. Let’s take a little trip down memory lane. With all that’s been going on lately, I’m reminded of my mission as a blogger. I wish to portray what I really wear on the daily (hence my “one stylish day at a time” tag line) and where I invest in my style because after all, I’m a budget shopper who believes in always looking my best out of respect for myself and those around me. I don’t dress just for a picture or to represent myself lolling about in some luxurious life of high fashion and glamour. That’s certainly not the life I live. I mean, I live on Long Island! I support myself financially. These aren’t complaints either, just my reality. Also, I don’t have a fancy camera or nearby scenic locations for spur of the moment photo shoots, nor do I often have backup to set up where and when I can share my daily outfit images. There’s plenty of evidence (with pictures taken in my bathroom or at my parents’ house) of how I’ve styled my summer thus far on Instagram (@styledarlingdaily). In addition, there also aren’t many words that go along with those posts. I know, I know. Writers should be writing.
On the upside, when I don’t have the words to express what’s going on with my style, I let the images (and hashtags) do the talking for me. I share my style inspiration for my two jobs where I can thankfully wear clothing that actually suits my personal style, so there isn’t much distinction in my closet between work and non-work apparel. At most, I pack an extra pair of shoes to switch from power heels to ballet flats for the change in shifts when I have to work both in the same day. Because of these day-to-day experiences (which don’t allow for proper photo shoot scheduling), I’m always seeking great deals on unique pieces that lend a stylish hand in how I express myself amid the chaos that is being a working woman in 2017 (not to mention, a happy one at that)! I digress… we were talking lemonade earlier.
Without getting into the lemon details (because I would never use my blog, writing, or social media to bully or hurt anyone whom I love), I recently found myself in a situation where I was no longer in need of a formal gown. The money I’d spent on the garment could not be refunded, nor was I permitted a store credit to use in the future. The dress itself was lovely, but certainly not a color that flattered my skintone or shape, so keeping it was simply not an option. In order to lemonade the whole thing, I realized I needed to reinvest the dollar amount in something that I would get much more use from, therefore resolving my predicament in the best way possible.
To relieve some of the mystery, I’ll share that I was at a local David’s Bridal, where their staff was very helpful and supportive as I pursued stylish options. However, I was not very impressed by their in-store dress selection to make an exchange. Certainly, there were plenty of beautiful colors, flattering styles, and youthful designs to shop through, but nothing special was speaking to my style blogger soul. One of my jobs is working as a stylist at a dress store, which also contributed to the fact that I wasn’t necessarily in need of a fancy party dress anyway. In a last stitch (pun!) effort, when looking at the rows and rows of pastel, sparkly, and ruffled chiffon, I sorted through my mental wardrobe catalogue to assess my existing dress options, what with three weddings and a Sweet Sixteen all scheduled in the span of a very busy and exciting month this coming fall. Basically, I didn’t want a new dress because I was already well-equipped in that department.
Suddenly, it occurred to me that shoes and accessories were often easier to pique my interest when in a shopping rut just like this. When it’s summer, I will only wear shoes that are comfortable. There are so many factors concerning weather (sweating in a heavy garment or taming my curls in the humidity) that invade my style routine for this hotter season, so I’m more than likely to be seen in flats, sandals, or flip flops on a regular occasion, rather than opting for the super fashionable high heel. Low and behold, David’s Bridal has a pretty amazing selection of footwear that had me in giggles. Generally, my everyday outfit will have some sort of sparkle to it, and if it’s not a statement necklace or big earring, my shoes will shine with studs or sequins. Of course, the selection of shoes at David’s Bridal is so blingy and meant for a bride, but that doesn’t mean that I can’t make these “bridal” shoes a reality for what I like to wear. I was so pleased with the discovery of finding fashion that fit my style in this unlikely place, especially when I’m not in the bridal market.
For the price of one gown, I was able to take home six pairs of shoes with only spending an additional ten dollars to offset the difference I owed, on top of a Buy One, Get One 50% off sale and coupon discount for the most expensive item. I felt accomplished and that I was making lemonade to benefit my style, shopping savvy, as well as quelling my soul of the recent circumstances that brought me to David’s Bridal in the first place. Furthermore, I rediscovered my love for the sandal. Gladiator flats and those pom pom sandals are all the rage every summer, but neither trend felt quite like me. Typically, I embrace trends that best work for my body type and personal style. I never encourage anyone to do the reverse. What happens is that we start asking ourselves what’s wrong with our bodies just because we don’t fit into some industry mold of what’s current and fashionable. I’d rather be of the mindset that something doesn’t work for me, as opposed to me being unsuccessful with that external force.
I love to wear pieces that best represent the feminine and detailed way I approach fashion. These metallic sandals (here, here, and here) are neutral for any summer ensemble, including a maxi dress or blouse and skirt outfit. Also, the ballet flats (here and here) will be the perfect way to dress up a casual look, while the lacy white pair (here) will definitely serve regular rotation with my floral summer dresses that I can wear either to work or for date night with my boyfriend.
Upon this shopping win, what came next was a swarm of reminders that bargain buys and surprise fashion finds are happening at so many unlikely stores that we as shoppers and busy women might forget about. A few months ago, my boyfriend and I were at BJ’s in pursuit of a discounted movie ticket package deal when I saw rows and rows of clothing. I’m not a regular BJ’s shopper, so I was shocked to learn that the warehouse store sold more than just fleece jackets or packaged underwear. I scanned the racks to see cute fit-and-flare scuba dresses, classic jersey frocks, and striped maxis, all perfectly priced if one was in need of a proper summer wardrobe update without breaking the bank. I’m always saying that shopping should be easy. While it comes more naturally to some than others (because some know their style and body type so well, while others are more hesitant or uninformed), to conveniently access fashion in an unexpected way is a delight and inspiration to write about.
Since my summer shoe game is all about comfort and function (of course, style never goes by the wayside either), I’m often acquiring my favorite selections at Juniors’ stores where shoes and jewelry are basically the only items available where size isn’t an issue. Juniors’ stores such as Mandee, Charlotte Russe, and Forever 21 all size to fit a younger and mostly slimmer-figured consumer. Although, it is worth mentioning that these retailers have expanded their brands to include stylish options for shoppers of all sizes. However, I’m a most frequent patron of accessories in these stores. Albeit, they don’t always cater to uncommonly smaller or larger shoe sizes, nor are wide sizes always available, but I’m more often than not able to find jewelry, shoes, and other accessories at reasonable prices to build a unique and special collection that works with my everyday style.
During the holidays last year, when I was in pursuit of gifts for coworkers, I sought festive bulk items like ornaments or tea and hot chocolate varieties. I have that “last one picked in gym class” complex (which I basically accept now since I usually never wanted to play in a sport anyway), so I wanted to make sure I extended the joyful spirit of the season to everybody at both of my jobs, an effort that annually proves to be quite the challenge to my budget. However, as I loaded up my cart at a local Big Lots, I found a display for sterling silver jewelry, decked out with chic drop earrings and charm bracelets (all in the vain of modern costume / fashion jewelry) that made my heart sing a song of style. It was such a lovely surprise and while these pieces were all under five dollars, I treated myself and some close friends to a little extra sparkle.
Speaking of a little extra sparkle… that’s all that any Style Darling really needs. It doesn’t have to be the holiday season or literal sparkle in the form of jewelry either. Sparkle and lemonade are basically the same metaphors to me: doing one’s best and making the best out of a negative. That’s all that really matters. If the solution results in six pairs of shoes, or a stylish bargain buy that represents who you are as a strong, kind, mindful, creative, beautiful individual, then any lemons along the way are worth their trouble.
Here’s a video of a live performance of “Silver Lining” by one of my favorite country singers, Kacey Musgraves. The silver lining, lemonade, or sparkle aren’t always obvious during an unfortunate circumstance, but I always have faith that I’ll find that positivity. Happy Styling!
The world is our runway. This phrase couldn’t be truer. When a lot is happening in life, I sometimes feel stuck in my wardrobe, seeking something refreshing & exciting to recreate old favorites & discover new trends to move my style forward. However, inspiration is always just around the corner with every click & keystroke on different social media forums.
This spring is probably my favorite spring ever, possibly because so much in life seems to be aligned personally, & I’m also feeling more confident in my style. This knowledge has also informed my newfound respect & developing radar for how accessories can transform your look. While I’m experimenting most right now with separates (mixing prints & color combinations), I’ve noticed how the playful pom pom movement isn’t going away. This includes all sorts of accessories: bags, shoes, earrings, & necklaces. When so much of spring is about light layers & pastels, pom pom accents make a bold statement without being too over the top.
One easy way to embrace the pom pom is with a straw bag, which is perfect for the everyday Style Darling looking to try something different, as well as for a variety of occasions like a weekend away or luncheon with the girls. Sure, there are plenty of expensive designer options making waves in the fashion world, including selections by (above) Kate Spade New York, Rebecca Minkoff, Loeffler Randall, Alice + Olivia, & Nannacay. When seeking out this look, you certainly don’t have to break the bank since the following styles (below) range in price from $29.99 – $43.00.
What spring trends are you most interesting in trying? Where do you shop for new seasonal accessories? How much do you invest in trend items? Happy Styling!
Spring is all about color! Pastels & bright hues are emerging from the darkness that is winter with lighter layers & softer palettes across the board. However, one of the edgiest ways to mix up your spring wardrobe is to pair a pattern or monochromatic outfit with a bold black & white heel. Since spring offers so many clean prints & floaty fabrics, a more modern shoe alternative in black & white will set you apart, changing the way you build a look. Combine stripes with floral or polka dots with animal prints to rediscover a new spring style.
Where do you like to shop for the latest spring shoe trends? Do you mix & match patterns with your outfits & accessories? Do you love sleek black & white outfits? Happy Styling!
In getting ready for spring (because it still isn’t here on Long Island—though we experienced two very magical spring-ish days before massive blizzards hit), I’m looking ahead, specifically to the trends I can’t wait to explore. One of the easiest ways to get into the mood of a new season is with accessories. My goal is to turn to some staple & classic pieces that I’ve collected from past seasons for my own looks. However, for some inspiration, I love seeing what’s new & stylish in stores & online right now to get me even more into a spring state of mine. Since I’m always interested in ways to mix patterns & textures to create a detailed & sophisticated look, I love the idea of laser cut accessories, which are typically faux leather, modern & feminine, & created in soft & neutral tones, to offset bold hues, floral prints, & abstract color combinations, especially when it comes to handbags, shoes, & belts. To achieve an affordable & fashionable take on spring, I’ve scoured the web & some of my favorite go-to stores to find the chicest ways to elevate your outfit, as well as help Style Darlings to transition from these last remaining chilly winter days & into a brighter & lighter spring style.
What spring trends are you most excited to wear? Where do you shop to refresh your wardrobe from season-to-season? What neutral accessories do you like best? Happy Styling!
Happy belated 2017, Style Darlings! Hope you’re having just as wonderful and smiley a year as I’m having! The proof is in my Instagram traffic, with a whopping 900 followers as of today! I couldn’t be happier about the progress I’m making in spreading the joy of living the stylish life, one positively coiffed day at a time!
I’ve had a great deal of time since the holidays to consider the goals I want to achieve this calendar year, especially when so many new adventures and responsibilities are headed my way. The countless windows of opportunity are open to me in all personal and professional aspects of life, which is why this year, more than any other, will be MY year. Of course, it’s possible that anyone with a keyboard and Wi-Fi connection is declaring just such ownership of 2017 (I mean, I can share)… or perhaps the public is more concerned with other crucial national / international issues regarding where our country is headed. Not to be an ostrich in the sand given the clamorous climate during this weekend’s emotional marches, but I know that the best way I can be true to myself as an American woman, the woman I want to be, and the woman I want my readers to know, is to just be me, to talk about the magic that is life, love, positivity, inspiration, fashion, and all things creative—all the things that give me hope.
You may begin to wonder (if you’re out there reading and wondering at all) where this Style Darling chick is going with this setup of resolutions? The title of this post basically points to “shopping your own closet” (and I’ll be getting to that more directly in just a moment, so please bear with me). Well, the arsenal of style that I have packed away on hangers, stuffed under my bed, and still stored at my parents’ house from over three years ago are the external representations of what I wish to express as my hopes for this year. On the inside, the strength that I’ve recovered from thirty three years of life experience has allowed me a much greater and more valuable inventory, if you will, of knowledge that I will claim as much as I possibly can. When I’m putting together an outfit. When I’m making my morning tea. When I’m listening to the La La Land soundtrack. When I’m tutoring students about syntax. When my hand is held while hustling through the streets of New York City. And for every lovely moment in between. That knowledge simply includes the promise that I will embrace the richness of every day. I will be present. I will speak up. I will appreciate the time I have to myself and with my loved ones. I will always be my best self; both the world and I deserve it.
In doing so, there are also some worries that make the drive to win the year a little more challenging. Among these, finances are always on my mind, which is why I’m committed to better shopping resolutions, only seeking unique and special must-haves unlike anything I currently own, as well as reinvesting and shopping my very full and fashionable closet with favorite wardrobe staples. In a conscious effort to mind my spending, I’m looking at how unexpected pieces can be played down and how basics can be styled up.
Since I have the liberty of taking my style into my hands at both of my jobs, as an educator and stylist, I’m free to explore what inspires me on social media, in magazines, from the people around me, and within my imagination. However, it has been quite the exercise in self-control since I will no longer, at the swift swipe of my credit card, buy any and every affordable sparkly thing I see online or in stores. No matter how sparkly it is. Really. I’m certainly not punishing myself for past indulgences, but in moving forward to wherever the future takes me, I hallucinate a little bit that I’ll end up being a real-life Miss Havisham of the 21st century, but of the clothing hoarder variety.
And now for the moment you’ve been waiting for… I’ve also recently been very careful about what I look at when it comes to seeking out style inspiration in stores and online, because it is oh-so tempting. However, I found the below affordable and chic graphic tees (gray, cream, black, & navy) from Old Navy for $15.00. I was immediately inspired to give these t-shirts the style blogger treatment they deserve, especially since I’m all about Prosecco and Paris. Upon discovering these tops, I went on a sort-of text rant about how they should have been presented on the Facebook post I initially saw them on, but also in how they are so plainly styled on the website.
A simple pop of jewelry takes these tees to the next level, while staying true to any mix of ladylike and modern style where casual meets cool. In addition, to build a budget-friendly shopper-savvy collection, these tees are perfect for Style Darlings of any size, ranging from XS-XXL in each of the designs. As for the jewelry (filigree earrings, drop earrings, choker, & statement necklace) from Forever 21, there’s no better place to shop when selecting something special, while also saving some cash instead of splurging on luxury sparkles.
To take these tees even further, think beyond your favorite pair of skinny jeans and try a sequin pencil skirt with a denim jacket, or a midi skirt and blazer. Also, when it comes to footwear, t-shirts are always compatible with ankle booties, ballet flats, strappy sandals, and knee boots. If you need further proof, just click around on Pinterest and take a fashion risk!
That’s all from me. Have questions? Have inspiration you wanna chat about? Let’s hear it. Happy 2017 and Happy Styling!
Baby, it’s cold outside, which means that you better bundle up in style! That includes hats, headwraps, scarves, & gloves when facing the brutal change in temperature. Not to mention that for Cyber Monday, there are plenty of great buys to help solve your holiday gift giving dilemma, & why not treat a loved one to something cozy & chic like a pom pomp beanie or luxe infinity scarf? Here in the Northeast, it’s been windy & chilly, which means that I’m not leaving the house without layers of elegant extras that won’t add too much frompy bulk. However, as an avid collector of scarves, I’ve found that when it comes to cold weather accessories, there’s such a variety in colors & textures to create an interesting & stylish outerwear look to play with how you style your go-to winter coat.
One of my latest obsessions this season, to pair with my other obsession: the pencil skirt, is an embellished cardigan. I’ve always been a cardigan girl, opting for the softness of a button-down topper that could be mixed & matched with skirts, jeans, pants, & even over a dress. This is the perfect season for just such a cardigan, one with dazzling sequins, beads, & stones, in designs inspired by a winter wonderland, feminine florals, or holiday sparkle. There are plenty of high-end cardigans on the market, but as always, I’ve selected some style that will surely fit any budget & heighten your holiday ensemble!
SHOP: pom pom paper clips @Forever 21, gold tassel charging cable @Icing, bed rest pillow @JCPenney, large purple scarf @H&M, striped 2017-2018 agenda @TJMaxx, nylon tote handbag @Target, Yes I’m Reading This bookmark @Francesca’s, & staineless steel water bottle @Old Navy. 
stitched sweater dress
Style Darling Daily 