The French & Skirts

I finally paid a long overdue visit to the glowing Lluvia (and her newest adorable addition to the fam, Uma) and Amy at Wildflower. I came across lots of one of my favorite designers, French Connection, as well as a new favorite look, involving long skirts. Traditionally, long skirts have been set aside in my "teacher" wardrobe in the event I were to stumble into that profession. However, with the right fitting, length and print or pleat, I think I just became a huge fan without having to step foot in a classroom. The skirt to the left above is pictured on me below, and at a great price point ($48)! The French Connection top in the middle is the perfect combination of luxury material, nudes paired with bright stones in a geometric arrangement that brings joy to my little heart. Far right is a long-sleeve maxi, which I recommend pairing with a jacket at nearly all times.

A few other related pieces I found on the interwebs:

French Connection Navajo top, French Connection Fantasy Lace Blouse, Zara Skirt, Alice & Olivia Skirt

EOW Suit For Thought

So, I'm really pretty ademante about maintaining a positive focus on all things published via this blog. I mean, it is one of my "happy places," "as they say, "and I can't be bringing bad fashion or lackluster end tables to the C&T mix here. However, I'd like to take a minute to "discuss" the above photography, and then learn what we can do about it.

I'm a huge Tibi fan; if you follow my blog, this you know. And I think that both of these suits have huge potential, particularly paired with their respective cropped tops and in light of the color blocking. I saw this image yesterday via Twitter, simultaneously smiled (inner smile) and cringed (outer cringe) and it actually came up in conversation last night at a little shindig I was hosting at the lovely Noble's Grille, so I know it's not just me. Two things: I dig oversize sweaters, etc. but when it comes to a blazer, always err of the side of fitted unless you want to look like Amanda Bynes in "She's the Man" (guilty movie pleasure by the way-shout out to katelyn), or, one of these poorly postured models pictured above. I mean, it is a blazer, after all, and that speaks "bossy" not "your boss." I get that the bare midriff angle can be grounds for covering your other bodily part bases, but this a suit, so your entire body has ample material stretching across your wingspan and legs. Some favorites (as for cropped tops, let's hold off till Spring and I'll hunt those down):

Pictured above: J. Crew Ludlow Jacket in Irish Linen, Theory Narolie Wool Blend Blazer, Vince Shawl Collar Leather Blazer, Trina Turk Alfred Blazer

Fashion's Night Out, WS

So it's the kickoff to a long holiday weekend and a short blog post. Just wanted to get the word out about little ole Winston-Salem's very first Fashion's Night Out to be held at Hanes Mall next Thursday, September 6th from 6:00pm - 9:00pm. Susan G. Komen will treat shoppers to a Pink Label ribbon along with raffles and refreshments. Macy's Fashion For a Cause Runway show will feature breast cancer survivors at 7:00pm in the Belk Court.

Hope y'all have a terribly relaxing Labor Day weekend. xx

Love Quotes

The time of the year when scarves become more abundant, and when I'm happiest, is encroaching. Fall. Just four letters... bearing cooler weather, chunky knit sweaters, boots, football season, the fair, Marisaween (my birthday/halloween) and oh-so-much-more. I'm going to FALL back into my blog writing with summertime laziness fading. #puns

I briefly mentioned a Love Quotes scarf last year here, but upon further discussion with a dear pal (shout out to Elizabeth), I believe it needs more dedication. In my investigation, I've discovered many a celeb enjoyeth rocking these amazing jewels of fabrics (love how Sofia uses as a wrap above). Not shocking, seeing as they come in nearly any color under the sun, and they are lightweight but also do their job as a scarf.

I love that each scarf comes with an actual love quote, and there are daily love quotes posted on the site. Because, isn't above all, love, the greatest thing? So, thanks Phyllis Wiener for these... xx happy weekend!

Eye Heart Stationery

Maybe I'm a little biased because she's my best friend, but these pieces are darn cute and you know it. Amigas, I give you, Eye Heart Stationery by Katelyn Applegate. That's the store, but you can also view her blog here (and by can I mean do). Ms. Applegate is a freelance designer who has a passion for creating unique pieces for every individual. And for every event that's near and dear to your heart, it will be near and dear to hers too, so you're in good hands. 


Katelyn's personal style is fresh, clean and modern. I have no idea why, but I want to also call it New Mexico or Arizona or something. So that will always speak through in her designs, but when she's creating something especially for you, your personality and vision are her focus. Hope y'all enjoy!!!! Friday! xx

Tuula

What sort of crap is this being at work the day after the 4th? It's bad crap, that's what it is you guys.

Let me apologize for starting out on a cranky note... how about, I hope everyone had a marvelous 4th of July, that you got too much sun, ate too many hot dogs and were impressed with fireworks. I'm taking July by the horns now and vowing to give a lot more love to posting again.

I need to thank my adorable friend Sarah for introducing me to Tuula. Beautiful photography. Wardrobe style is romantic and sexy, lace accents (see black shorts-precious) to black leather stiletto booties (pictured just above). And the gold sharks teeth necklace piece... I DO! xx

COCOA & HEARTS

How about these pretty pastels? Instant mood enhancer. I need one of these in every room of the house. And my office. Speaking of the office, whilst doing some research for a project, I came across this savvy blogger slash artEEst. That's artist in case I lost you. Check out COCOA & HEARTS. Happy Saturday!