Here to stay: Hoop Earrings

Ask any chic stylista what three accessories every girl with pierced ears has tucked away in her jewelry box and they'll all tell you the same thing: rhinestone studs, grandma's pearls, and a hot pair of hoops. This month, People Style Watch highlights the 10 Best Hoop Earrings...

Hoop earrings are universally flattering and are the perfect way to spice up a simple outfit. Just ask Kris Jenner, who is usually spotted hooping it up! Jenner trades boring old gold and silver for gorgeous gunmetal and pavé diamonds. The earrings compliment Jenner's stylish cropped hairdo. Whether you wear your hair up, down, or somewhere in between, larger than life hoops are a fantastic, yet simplistic, way to show off your individual style.

           


What's on my wishlist??



Nadri Pavé Hoop Earrings in Rose Gold
Available at Nordstrom.


                                                        

Safari Chic



Elie Tahari Spring/Summer 2011


Safari style apparel, including structured utilitarian jackets, crisp blouses, and Bermuda shorts were a common theme amongst the Summer 2011 catwalks. The classic use of military green and khaki hues channeled our inner Indiana Jones and called for a fashionable sense of adventure.

Wild about this look?

Transform it from runway to reality by mixing the neutral elements with bold trimmings. Safari chic boasts clean lines, a subdued color pallet, and minimalist themes. This allows for sheer and utter freedom in the accessories department. Go wild!

Trust your animal instincts and opt for jungle jewelry. Accent your stylish safari duds with chunky tribal-inspired necklaces. A statement necklace is a stand out accessory that every well-dressed woman needs in her jewelry repertoire. Pair a bold necklace with your adventurous ensemble and delve into the wild with Summer’s safari-inspired garments.

Chic Suggestions:



Kenneth Cole



Sequin



Hive and Honey






All Statement Necklaces available at Piperlime.

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Get the Look: Monochromatic Menswear

Ever thought about wearing an entire outfit made from one color? The monochromatic trend is taking over this summer. Take note from the 3.1 Phillip Lim Spring/Summer runway collection and layer on monotones ranging from white and grey, to charcoal and black. Create interest to your usual t-shirt and jeans by experimenting with gunmetal watches, hoodies, vests, and shades. Try out this trend and bring new meaning to Jay-Z's All Black Everything...

Photos c/o Nordstrom

Want it. Need it. Gotta have it.

I'm currently obsessed with this Kate Spade "Cut to the chase Bib Necklace"

Not only is it bold and beautiful... It's bright pink! Make a statement this summer by pairing the necklace with your favorite tee shirt or white dress. Not in the market for a $148 necklace? Try out this similar look by Forever 21 that I scored for only $6 ...Who's gunna know the difference? We'll just have to keep it our little secret ;)

Xo Brittney

Sunny Delight

Welcome the summer season with golden hues! Brighten up any neutral colored item with a bold stream of sunshine, whether it's with a billowing tunic and shorts or a beautifully crafted handbag. A show stopping yellow cocktail dress is perfect summer wedding attire or for sipping champagne on a patio overlooking all that the season has to offer. This week, I'm trying out yellow polish, which adds a playful pop to any ensemble!

Xo Brittney

Calling All Biker Babes!

Summer is officially here! There’s something about fragrant flowers, birds chirping, and clear blue skies that call upon my inner-kid and sweet talk me into getting outdoors! Or perhaps that’s the sound of the ice cream truck perusing the neighborhood. Either way, it’s time to soak up some vitamin D and get my buns in gear. Literally. Today I’m dusting off the old cruiser and hitting the pavement!



Lea Michele on set for Glee. Photo c/o Idolator


Besides being totally fun, it turns out biking is a great form of exercise and eco-friendly! Did you know the average woman burns about 280 calories per hour on a leisurely ride? Instead of jumping in the car and polluting mother earth, grab your bike and pedal to your friend’s house or the market. The adorable basket upfront can serve as a place to store grocery bags, your purse, or a change of sexy summer shoes!

Plus, it is possible to cycle in style. Sans spandex, I mean. While a dress and high heels certainly aren’t the most functional option, shorts and cute flats are an easy substitute. Try pushing pedals in classic Chuck Taylors, like Miss Lea Michele. Or opt for your favorite sneakers, gladiator sandals, or ballet flats. This week channel your inner-child and lower stress, tone up, and reduce your carbon footprint by biking around your community.

My Style Icon…

Today I came across an article on how to capture Audrey Hepburn's style in the May 2011 issue of Lucky Magazine. The article featured cashmere cardigans, cigarette pants, and ballet flats. For years, I've considered her my personal style icon.  Not particularly for her timeless style of dress, but because of the lifestyle that she achieved.



@Madame Tussaud's Wax Museum Hollywood, CA

 Lady-like, stylish, carefree, and philanthropic...  All of which are qualities that I aim to embody in my everyday life. As most of you who read my blog already know, I am fashion obsessed and would love to contribute to a fashion magazine one day.  However, I think that you can only talk about clothes so much. Going forward, I'd like to talk about fashion (and lots of it) but I also want to blog about faith, love, health, happiness, and other topics that I hold close to my heart.

I'm a very lucky girl who has had the privilege of meeting many wonderful people, attending great events, and traveling to fabulous destinations. I'd like to share some of these experiences here.

I'll leave you with a quote that I think we can all gain something from...

I believe in pink. I believe that laughing is the best calorie burner. I believe in kissing, kissing a lot. I believe in being strong when everything seems to be going wrong. I believe that happy girls are the prettiest girls. I believe that tomorrow is another day and I believe in miracles.
--Audrey Hepburn



Photos c/o Biography.com and Lucky Magazine

Accessory Report: How to Transition from the Cubical to Cocktails

With so little time between work and play, cut back on early-morning closet rummaging by transitioning your classic sheath dress from a day at the office to a night on the town. A sheath dress is a simple, yet sophisticated, style that when paired with the right accessories displays nighttime versatility. Headed out after work?

Dump the frump. Start out by removing that conservative cardigan or blazer and add on a stylish statement necklace. Think less clothing and more jewels! A top pick for spring is a versatile long gold necklace. The multilayered chains will add texture and gold contrasts well against a solid-colored dress.

Get Gorgeous. The working girl doesn’t always have time to make a pit stop while en route to a post-work soirée. Create a travel-sized kit stocked with beauty essentials like mascara, a comb, and your favorite tube of lipstick. Keep this tucked away inside your handbag for spur-of-the-moment after hour activities.

 Put your best foot forward. Complete the look by swapping out your comfy flats for soaring high-heels.  Bring along a pair of pumps that will take your ensemble from functional to fabulous. Also make sure to always keep a neutral-colored clutch on hand, so you won’t have to lug around your handbag all evening.

As any working girl knows, a little preparation goes a long way. When shopping, seek out dresses that will transition easily. This will diversify your closet and save you some cash. Follow these tips and you will instantly travel from office bleak to nighttime chic!

Photos c/o HBO, Ann Taylor, Simply You, and Steve Madden

In the press: Hervé Léger

A week ago today, I had the fantastic opportunity to preview the Hervé Léger spring and fall 2011 collections at David Lawrence for Downtownvue, an up and coming digital magazine catered for classy, young professionals in downtown Bellevue. The dresses were absolutely stunning! Someday I'll be able to afford one ;)

Here are 3 of my favorite dresses on 3 of my favorite Jennifers... enjoy!

 photo c/o OnSugar

 photo c/o Vogue

photo c/o InStyle

If you didn't get a chance to check out the article, you can do so here! And be on the look out for future articles from me, as I'm working closely with their staff as a freelance fashion contributor!

Xo Brittney

Look of the day: Maximized Style

Photo Courtesy of Duonam.com

Colorful floral maxi dresses are having a MAJOR moment this spring. The 70’s inspired dress looks great with a pair of wedge sandals, which add height. Think cork, espadrille, and wooden wedges! This prevents the floor-length dress from dragging. Shoes, however, aren’t the only accessories that go well with the cool and comfortable look.

Metal Knot Necklace



Call upon your inner Bohemian beauty and make a statement with a tribal-inspired necklace. My top pick is the Hive & Honey "Metal Knot Necklace" available on Piperlime.com The combination of brightly-colored patterns and earthy metals will create a chic daytime look.

Modern Royalty

With the royal nuptials just around the corner, be sure to channel your inner princess with these chic suggestions! Envious of Ms. Middleton's sapphire engagement ring and elegant style? Get the look by pairing Tahari's Halani Sheath Dress with Simply You's stunning Penelope Necklace and Phoebe Earrings! Add on a classic trench coat and sleek nude pumps for a regally royal look with a modern twist!

Golden Girl

Feeling a little pale from the long winter? Gold instantly adds warmth to any skin tone. Get your glow on this season with Simply You's Lilianne Necklace, Liz Bangles, and Lana Cuff! Lately, these three staples have been in my heavy jewelry rotation. They literally match everything! Mix em' up or wear them as separates to glam up any ensemble!

LILIANNE: Gold finish link necklace. Add a dramatic impact to your outfit with this elegant piece. 32" $45

LANA: Simple, yet stylish cuff. Fine hammered texture is accentuated with a shiny gold finish and hinged closure. $35

LIZ: Vibrant and trendy gold plated bangles. Hammered texture accented with clear crystals add to the sparkle. $40

Get yours today at http://www.bhiggins.mysimplyyou.com/ Each piece is sent out in a beautifully packaged velveteen pouch and has a LIFETIME guarantee! Love it!

Photos & Descriptions Courtesy of c/o Simply You

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Trend to Try: Running Late? Save Time With This Chic Solution

Picture this. It's 8 o’clock a.m. You roll over from a peaceful night’s rest and realize you’ve overslept. Your alarm didn’t go off, or you simply didn’t hear it. Too busy dreaming about Spring Trends? Or Zac Efron perhaps? ;)

Whatever the case may be, you need to get your tush in gear and out the door in the next 15 minutes…

The Solution:

A classic straw and cotton fedora by Mossimo for Target! $13
This is a chic and spontaneous way to cover up messy or unwashed tresses. Pair the hat with a T-shirt, Toms, boyfriend jeans, and your favorite unique mix of beaded jewelry for an effortless cool and casual look.

Chic Suggestions:

Toms Natural Classic Canvas, Alohi Necklace Set, Gypse Bracelet Set, Crew Pocket Tee, Seven for All Mankind

Trend to Try: Pretty Pastels

With Easter right around the corner, it's time to give your dark denim a break and "hop" into a pair of pretty pastel jeans! Muted mint, pink, lavender, sky blue and yellow have been spotted on the likes of the lovely LeAnn Rimes, Miss Cameron Diaz, and stylista Whitney Port! What ever you do, don't pull a Mischa Barton circa last year... The colorful skinnies aren't forgiving, so opt for a low waisted pair and keep your accessories on the neutral side. Brands like Rag & Bone and J Brand are offering a variety of fun colored jeans, but the thrifty fashionista can score hers today for $27.80 at Forever 21!

Look of the Day: Trendy Trousers

Take note ladies, chinos are back in a big way! Based on the Spring/Summer 2011 catwalks, chinos are the summer alternative to jeans. Dress them up or down. Pair them with a solid colored tank and your favorite wedge heel for a daytime look. This would be a good time to break out that fabulous turquoise tribal necklace you’ve been dying to wear. A blazer and pumps will instantly add a hint of sophistication. For a more casual look, wear your chinos cuffed at the ankle with gladiator sandals. A whimsical scarf adds interest and keeps you warm on windy days. No matter how you choose to style your chinos, this classic look will help the trendy girl on the go keep her cool this summer.

Look of the day

Vintage Vixen

Nothing says vintage vixen like chic old-fashioned clothing, accessories, and home decor. Here I've rounded up samples of the best vintage options around, including A-line skirts, heirloom style jewelry, and antiquities to revamp your pad. If you’re a sucker for lace, chiffon, floral, and uniquely-fashioned finds, this is the collection for you! Scour your local thrift store, garage sales, and second-hand shops. Don't like the idea of wearing gently-used clothing? Check out www.modcloth.com for retro-inspired options. For me, vintage shopping is about the thrill of the hunt and the history behind each garment or piece. What are you waiting for? Get out there and reinvent the past with timeless style and a touch of glamour.

Vintage Chanel Haute Couture

 I'm loving the florals, sequin, fringe, and silhouette's of these vintage dresses!

 Add timeless trinkets to your jewelry collection...

Fabulous antique finds and shabby chic decor!

Preppy + Hipster = Prepster

Just because an Ivy League education costs an arm and a leg doesn’t mean you can’t rock the polished “Prepster” look! The selection of casual, evening, and business-minded duds will take you from day to night. Nautical hues and carefully selected neckwear, topped off with a double-breasted jacket create clean lines and ooze a sense of sophistication. The combination of stripes, slim-fit, crisp collars, and oxfords will leave you looking quirky, yet refined, cultured, and elite

Spring Forward with a Blast from the Past

Spotlight on Derek Lam’s 2011 Spring Collection where bell bottoms swept the runway, literally.

Almost a half-century later, the 70’s inspired jeans still manage to look cool! Worried that you can’t pull off this vintage look? Nonsense! Flared jeans are universally flattering. For girls with curves, the width below the knee will help to balance out a wide hip, in contrast to the popular skinny jean. Pair them with a tucked-in blouse and towering wedge heels for a long and lean look. Complete the look with wooden bangles and a cross-body bag. You’ll be lookin’ outta sight and feelin’ groovy! 

7 for all Mankind Jeans, Top Shop Blouse, Giuseppe Sandals, Roberto Cavalli Bangles, Marc by Marc Jacobs Bag

Flirty, Fierce, and Fiscally Responsible...

With Cupid’s arrow fast approaching, many are stressed out about what to wear for the big night. Get your gorgeous on with my top picks for Valentine’s Day dresses from Nordstrom B.P.  Whether you have a hot date out on the town with your sweetie, or are celebrating Single’s Awareness Day with your best girlfriends, you’ll be sure to break a few hearts in these fabulous dresses. Opt for sweetheart necklines, ladylike lace, and sexy one-shoulder frocks that will show off both your romantic side and killer curves. Not looking to burn a hole in your pocket? Don't fret! In true recessionista style, every dress shown is under $88.00 Enjoy!

Photos courtesy of Nordstrom.com