That Time I Dressed Like A Ballerina...

Fashion confession:  I have dreamed of donning a tulle skirt since Carrie Bradshaw posted it on the side of a cross town bus, all those years ago.  Alas, it's lack of practicality has kept one out my closet.  Until now.  It's not like 30-something mother's of three have suddenly deemed Whole Foods black tie optional, or anything crazy like that.  I just (finally!) have some pretty things around, that require a gorgeous backdrop.  It's official shop business!

 And, I have to say, this blush beauty from Space 46, was well worth the wait!  Because it was part of a "merchandising" venture, I kept the look simple...with a fitted white button down shirt.  A necessity I've been on repeat with, of late.  The outfit is ladylike, and pretty, and the perfect way to showcase the accessories...the jewels, in particular!

 And...we'll talk about those in a minute.  But first, the shoes!  At least once a year, I find a shoe that does the job of a dozen.  The Lanie stacked heel is that shoe, especially in this cracked copper hue.  It came in such a varied range of colors and fabrications that, I may have, picked up an extra pair.  They are currently on sale, so now is the time to explore your options...

 A statement necklace has always been a signature for me, and it's always a bonus to find a great one in mixed metal.  It opens a world of possibilities for piling on the jewels elsewhere...a must for merchandising this outfit up, a bit.  In total, this look is rocking three different "metals"...silver, gold and copper!  Luxe, luxe, luxe!

This particular necklace was a KMV signature statement piece, but it is nearly sold out!  Just one piece (message for details) left!  Looking to restock this beauty for Fall!

 I could not get enough of this clutch this Summer!  The Sprinkle Clutch, in all it's multi-colored glory,  has gotten major play...with everything from this fancy-pants skirt, to jeans and a tee!

And, because this post has become a confessional, of sorts...I am, just now, getting into the layered bracelet, "arm party," situation.  I know, I know...forever late to the party.  In this case, however, there was good reasoning.  With twin babies, any wrist wear was forever getting caught in hair, or risking a scratched face.  I ditched it all, including my trusty watch.  Now, with those babes at nearly five years old (yikes!  where did that time go?), and my big girl (9!) getting into the bracelet craze, I'm ready to embrace again!  And, come Fall, you are going to benefit!  A gorgeous array of stackable, arm-party ready bracelets are en route to the Shop!  The blush beaded cuff, shown, is still available in limited quantities.  Stay tuned for more beauties, including one with a cause dear to my heart...

So, that's it, my "ballerina" moment.  Too much fun!  So much, in fact, that I may very well be sporting this tulle fabulousness at Whole Foods sometime very soon!

Beautiful photography by the fabulous Erin Galardi!

Demystifying the Maxi....

There is nothing like a good maxi dress in the summertime.  Despite the extra fabric, they always feel airy and light.  I love the flow of a longer skirt, and feel infinitely taller when wearing one...particularly, because I usually pair with a super high wedge.  This dress will stand as one of my favorite fashion finds.  I've always been a huge Mara Hoffman fan and, although this is not one of her covetable pieces, the bold color pattern has the same feel.  The thing I love the most, however, is that I found at my local T.J.Maxx (whilst looking for housewares for a friend of mine...multitasking, people!) for a mere $19.99.  A total steal, I know!  And a great way to get the designer look, for an affordable price.

Of course, for less oppressively hot days, the maxi pairs perfectly with my signature denim shirt.  Which, I promise, I do not wear ever day!  Although, according to my Instagram feed, it would seem otherwise!  On this day, I combined a high/low look, accessorizing with one of my favorite jewelry pieces... a double green agate lariat necklace, and the best bag ever!  This silver sequin beauty is by Monserat de Lucca, and ...wait for it...was another T.J. Maxx find!  Can you believe it???  Sadly, I don't think the company manufactures this style anymore.  A shame...it is so gorgeous!  My gain, however, as it was a steal on my Maxxinista trek!

Photo Credit:Erin Galardi Photography

A closer look at the bag...stunning!

I get a lot of questions about the maxi dress...generally from more petite friends.  They feel that they cannot pull off the style, in general.  Not the case!  The maxi I'm wearing is a bit on the longer side and, due to the nature of the pattern, could not be shortened.  This wouldn't be an option for you shorties...but there are many styles that are!

Anything in a solid, that fits well in the shoulders and chest, can easily be shortened to height.  This bordeaux silk is a stunner on any body type.

A consistent all-over pattern is another great candidate for hemming to length.  This pattern is summer perfection, and currently on sale!

With stripes, I tend to avoid shortening, instead looking for a style that is available in a petite size.  Stripes can be tricky and, in general, don't hem as well.  This style comes in regular, petite and tall...and also comes in black!  Love the linen!

So fear not, my height-challenged fashionistas!  You, too, can rock a maxi!