Cole Haan Bradshaw Pump



I am in love with my new shoes. I bought these beautiful Cool Haan pumps at DSW. They are very comfy for a pump. The heel is 2.5 inches, so not too tall. I've been wearing them at work, and so far so good. On the website, the pumps go for $248. Holy moly! I got mine at DSW for $100, which is a lot more than I would spend on heels, but I've decided my feet are worth the investment. My last pumps, from Michael Kors that I got on sale at DSW, didn't stay comfortable for long. Don't  you just hate it when you try on a shoe and it feels great only to have it betray you later on and hurt your feet? Yeah, me too.

My feet are wide, so it can be tricky finding a pump that works. I had just about given up on a pointy one until I found these. I remember my first pair of grown-up black pumps I bought in college. They were gorgeous. The heel was about an inch or so, and I just loved them. I wore them out. I'm hoping these new one will work as wonderfully as my first pair.

Timeless Elegance

Sometimes I like to fantasize about the goodies I would invest in if money weren't an issue. Yes, invest. There are many pieces of fashion that are timeless and are meant to last decades, like a beautiful Burberry trench coat or a pair of pearl earrings. Some investments are for comfort, like a pair of great fitting shoes. I've created a collection of timeless elegance that I would purchase if I had an unlimited budget. Some items I already have, like the Chloe perfume. I love a timeless, understated, elegant look like the items below would create.


I'd love to hear what you think and what items - not necessarily from below, you find timeless and/or elegant.

Burberry slim coat, $1,840 / L.K.Bennett round toe suede pumps, $300 / Kate Spade red crossbody / MELANIE GEORGACOPOULOS 18k earrings / FOSSIL stainless steel watch / Bare Escentuals mineral lipstick / Chloé lily perfume

Pacific NW Style

If you haven't noticed, I love living in Puget Sound, WA. It is such a wonderful place. Seattle and Vancouver, Canada are less than two hours away, and it's so easy to find healthy and natural food/products. It's wonderful. I have trees, I have mountains, and I have the sea. I am in paradise.

I've been adopting a NW style over the months I've been here. So, what exactly is the style like here? It's part sophisticated, part quirky, and part relaxed. Many of us tend to be drawn to the outdoors, and it's reflected in our dress. For me, I love wearing my Bean Boots with yoga pants, a plaid shirt, and a warm zip-up vest topped off with a beanie. Another cute, common look out her and a breezy dress with a cardigan, tights, flats, and scarf. I typically don't wear the last look as I don't have the cute dresses yet. I'm hoping this year more of the dresses will be available in the style I like.

The first style is one I adore. Maybe this will be the year I brave the second look.

Librarian at Work

I love being a librarian. After years and years of waiting, volunteering, and working at jobs I was over-qualified to do (and who hasn't been in that situation?), I finally made it! Thank you, God! It was worth the wait, I think. I learned more about myself and learned what truly matters most. My attire for this position is different and yet the same as some previous jobs. So, I realized I need some new clothes for it. I can now be freer with what I choose and more relaxed. My first professional job was as a high school teacher right out of college, so I had to dress to make myself look older. Now, I can wear what I like to work, which is always a nice, neat, and sophisticated look. That is what I naturally gravitate toward, even when I'm not going to work. What does a librarian wear? At least, what does this librarian wear? Well, let me break it down for you.

I'm a reference librarian primarily, so I'm typically sitting a lot. I'm also under an air vent, which causes me to get chilly at work. I'll have a nice shirt and slacks paired with dress shoes; I prefer wedges as they provide a lot of support. Plus, they just look cute, especially for the Fall. I do love dressing up and wearing make-up to work. So many people don't, but I just feel more pulled together when I do.

As a huge Kate Spade fan, it's not uncommon to see me wearing some jewelry from the brand. I gravitate mostly toward watches and earrings, and Kate Spade earrings tend to be affordable. At least for a designer brand. The handbags from the line are amazing. They are sturdy and of great quality. I carry a lot of books and notebooks with me (I never know what mood I'm in), so I need a bag with space.

You may already know of my love for all things from the Flower Beauty line of makeup. It's amazing! High quality (like Bobbi Brown quality) at great prices. I little bit of lipstick, some blush, and I'm set. That's on a day when I have to rush to work. On slower mornings, I do the whole shebang: foundation, corrector, brightening powder, eyeliner, eyeshadow, and mascara in addition to the above.  

Yes, I did include reading glasses. But the computer screen resolution at the reference desk is terrible, and when I change it, it always gets changed back. So, reading glasses are needed.

Kendra's Night Out Challenge

Not too long ago I was asked by the lovely Kendra to participate in her challenge:

"I am heading to New York City in a few weeks with a group of friends, and I'm inviting you to help me put together the wardrobe that will complement my travel plans. It should include ideas for a night out at The Standard High Line Hotel. With being a mom to three wonderful kids, I don't always know what the latest trends are or how to dress for a night of wining and fine dining - that's why I need your help!"

Well, I am very happy to help out! Summers in NYC can be warm, so I suggest an easy summer dress with sandals. NYC is a city for walking an exploring, so I suggest exploring the neighborhood of the restaurant. The sandals, which are vegan, are low wedges, which will be comfortable and provide good back support, both vital for walking! Kendra also mentioned in her emails that she and her friends plan on playing some games of ping-pong, so the height of the wedges is perfect for it.

I stuck with bright colors, perfect for the summer. The statement necklace is the only piece of jewelry aside from the watch so that it won't overwhelm the look. Sunglasses complete the ensemble for keeping out the rays of the setting sun.

Here's more on what Kendra wants:

Big Apple Eats
I am so excited that I am getting to go to New York City some sightseeing and shopping. With all the excitement of buying tickets and booking hotels, I did not think about what to pack. As the trip draws closer, I have begun to look through my closet in earnest and discovered that I have nothing to wear! Okay, I do have clothes, but as a mom with 3 children my wardrobe will not leave me looking my best in the Big Apple. I have created the Kendra Fashion Challenge so that my wardrobe will get the tender loving care that it needs and I will look amazing on my trip. 

While visiting the Big Apple, we wanted to spend an evening out wining and dining. After a little research, we decided on some yummy German food at Biergarten in the Standard High Line Hotel. True to the beer garden theme, during the summer this restaurant has an outdoor seating area, but in the winter it becomes a glass-enclosed haven with scrumptious sausage and pretzels. Chef Kurt Gutenbrunner oversees this delightful German restaurant. After eating, we can play a spirited game of ping-pong and enjoy our beer. I actually got the idea to eat here from a friend who just returned from a trip to Los Angles where she ate at the Biergarten at Standard High Line Hotel there. 

As I finish up finding the last few things to do, I will take the time to get some real opinions from other travelers on gogobot.com. I know that I am going to have in the Big Apple, but when visiting the Standard High Line Hotel, one of the most luxurious hotels in the city, I will enjoy it more when I am dressed in the latest fashions from my fashion challenge. 

One other suggestion while in New York City: eat at Laduree!

Fashion on Film: Charade

I love Audrey Hepburn. I could watch her movies over and over. One of my favorites is Charade. One of the best parts of the movie is the fashion. Givenchy created the gorgeous outfit's for Audrey's character. Each piece is simple yet elegant, and the outfit is styled perfectly. Timeless elegance. Just about all of Audrey's movies are just lovely to watch for the fashion. She and Givenchy made an amazing team with their sense of style they both had.

I remember vividly being in college and discovering Audrey. She was my first fashion role model. She was my inspiration to create a grown-up look and how to actually do it. I read and watched all that I could about her and her style. That's what's so amazing about her; even decades after her films were made, she still inspires so many with her fashion sense. Amazing.

Summer Reading, Summer Watching

There's something about the summer. Somehow, everything seems more relaxed. More time to stop and smell the roses and expand our horizons. This summer, I've been reading like crazy and taking full advantage of the library where I work. We have an amazing collection, especially movies. I've been reading more books on style. My style changes about every 9 months or so. I've been moving from a laid back, nature-girl look to casual chic. Another quest of mine, if you will, is rediscovering my artsy side. I wanted to share some of my finds in case you're doing the same as I.

Lessons from Madame Chic by Jennifer Scott is a wonderful read. Jennifer recalls twenty lessons she picked up while studying and living in Paris as a college exchange student. One lesson I really enjoyed was watching French films to get a sense of the women's style and makeup.That lead me to watch Priceless with Audrey Tautou. I really enjoyed it. I highly recommend it, especially if you're looking for French style.

How To Look Expensive by Andrea Lustig is a must read for anyone who loves fashion and beauty. It's filled with great suggestions, tips, and how-tos based on your personal needs and style. I loved it so much that I went out and bought it. Yeah, it's that good.

I really love the summer. So full of possibilities. I'd love to hear what you're reading!

Summer Style

My current style inspirations.

Outfit Creation

I love wearing neutrals with touches of color. A moss green shirt is a favorite in my closet. I wanted to create a comfortable outfit inspired by the colors of nature. Casual chic, if you will. I really want this outfit. I created this with Polyvore, my go-to site for outfit inspiration.

Leather, Lace, and Gold

Lately, I have been loving the idea of a white lace dress with brown leather riding boots. I love white and brown together; so natural and calming. There's something about the structure of the boot pairing with the softness of the lace that just seems perfect.  Add a bracelet and earrings to compliment, not steal the show, and I'm all set. I think this would be great in the Spring. I created this using Polyvore; sadly, it's a bit hard to see the bottom half of the gorgeous dress, but I still love it.

Staying Warm

Sometimes in the winter, it's just too cold to get all gussied up. You just want to wear comfy, warm clothes. I hear you on that one. In the past few days, I have just about gotten the warm and comfy look down. For years, during the winter I was never fully warm and comfortable; it was an either/or for me. My look has become a little more casual; either that or I'm now starting to focus on looking good while being comfortable. Fabrics I would have worn before are no longer allowed. It makes for a better frame of mind for me. Clothes are one of the ways I express myself, and I'm sure I'm not the only one.

I want to share with you my favorite ideas for being warm and comfortable. Bear in mind, the items below are not an outfit; rather, they are items I love for the Winter. Right about now, there are sales galore, so take advantage of it! I know I am with item #3; it goes on sale for 20% plus the 20% off coupon! Score!

1. Bear Paw Emma Boots
I just got this exact pair the other day on sale. In the past, I would never be caught dead in these. I didn't like the look of Uggs. Now that I live in Puget Sound, I feel differently. I don't tuck my pants into them; this helps to keep my legs even warmer. The soft, warm lining inside the whole boot is amazing. I can't believe how much I love them. When I wear them out and about, it's like I'm wearing house slippers.

2. Cuddl Duds Women's Climatesmart Long Legging
I can't go a winter without these. I never wear them by themselves; they always go under pants for added warmth. Other brands exist, so be on the look-out. I will give you a warning. Many times these run out quickly, so be sure you pick up some as soon as you see them. I'm probably going to grab another pair in the next few days.

3. The North Face Microvelour Pants
Where have these been my whole life?! I cannot wait to get these. They are made of fleece and super warm. I finally have a solution for my problem of not having warm pants to wear for outdoor activities.

4. Infinity Knit Scarf
I love scarves. A knit scarf provides so much warmth, and having it as an infinity creates a sleek look. If they are big enough, the infinity can also go over the shoulders.

5. Aloe Vera Snowflake Socks
Body heat leaves via the feet, so warm, thick socks will keep the heat in. With aloe vera socks, not only are you warm, you're also helping your feet be smooth and soft.

6. Dash Long Sleeve Fleece
I have a fleece shirt and love it. I got mine from Old Navy last year on the cheap. Fleece is so comfortable and very warm. I like to wear a shirt underneath to trap in the heat of my body. I highly recommend something like this. They are more flatteringly designed than before, so you can look cute and be warm.

7. Bound Seam Duffle Coat
Sometimes a comfortable coat that looks stylish is hard to find, especially if your wearing a lot of layers already. Many duffle coats are a bit roomier, so you can really bundle up and be comfortable. With a hood on top, your all set to be warm!

Timeless Elegance: White Lace Dresses

I'm loving white lace dresses right now. I'm not a believer of no white after Labor Day. I think that's rather silly. White lace dresses are all over the place now, and it's easy to get one ready for Fall. Add a cute jacket, pair of boots, and you're set. If you're like me and you're calves are too big for knee boots, tights and flats or wedges look great, too.

I really like the idea of hard and soft with this: biker jacket and boots with the dress. I also like the look of a nature-loving girl: brown booties with a soft brown jacket. Do the flower child look by adding a feminine headband with beachy waves in your hair.

Just don't wear it with a blue belt or people will be singing "girls in white dresses with blue satin sashes."

 
Jigsaw dress - $135

 

Dorothy Perkins dress - $44

Dorothy Perkins dress - $25

 

Monsoon dress - $130

 
Allyfashion.com - $40

Styling Idea

Images via Pinterest

Coach Love

One of my favorite labels is Coach. I've had a love affair with the brand for years. I love the range of materials used and that the handbags can be very pricey or affordable-ish. I was initially drawn based on the bags, but I also love the shoes and jewelry. I'm not a big fan of the perfume because they tend to be soft and subtle, and I like a strong scent that lasts.

I remember my first Coach handbag. It had purple leather and the signature fabric material and gold hardware. It was beautiful. I wore that handbag out. I used it everyday for two solid years. Then, I moved on to a purple handbag from the Poppy line. It had a longer strap with the option of handles to create a traditional handbag look. I wore it out, too. I wore it out faster since it was all fabric and no leather. I used it for about a year and a half and mentioned it here.

After that, I discovered the Coach Factory Outlet. My last bag was from there. I use it when I travel to different cities and such. It's a crossbody, cream, and the perfect size for traveling. Not too big, just the right size for essentials. I mention it here. I loved this one, too. What I failed to fully realize what how quickly it gets dirty, and not from the front either. It would get jean stains on the back. I had the cleaner, of course, but it can be a pest to clean.

I live close to a Factory Outlet and the typical Coach store. I love my Michael Kors bag I have now that I blogged about here and don't plan on replacing it for a long time. My attention is now toward the Coach jewelry and other accessories. It being Coach, the items are a bit pricey, so I just stare and dream of them. These are my current loves and wants.

Scarf - $98

Earmuffs - $88

Small Pave Disc Pendant Necklace -$68

Watch - $358

Wallet - $198

Do you love Coach or is it just me?

Loafer Heels and Wedges

I've noticed a stronger presence of menswear inspired fashion this year, and a lot of the trends I'm loving. I think my favorite time of the year is Fall. I love wearing the cute layers without the bulkiness that comes in the winter. I'm always ready to wear some nice pants and sweaters. I've noticed my Pinterest boards tend to reflect this love. Lots of Fall clothes are pinned! For me, once September gets here through January 1, it's the most wonderful time of the year. I love Fall.

This year, I'm wanting to try a loafer wedge. I might venture into the heel area. I love wedges, so I would gravitate that direction first. Like all wedges and heels, I don't like mine too tall - no higher than three inches. What I love about this style of shoe is that they are work appropriate - if I ever get a job - and they can be dressed up or down. I like to pair them with a pant. I personally feel they would look funny with a dress or skirt, but that's my opinion.

There are some crazy takes on the loafer wedge, such as this one from Urban Outfitters:

That's just too dangerous for me to attempt.


How do you wear yours? Will you be rocking this look this Fall?

Stuart Weitzman - $475

Old Navy - $28

Bernie Beneto - $115

Marni - $615

Aldo - $85 (a bit too tall for me, but very pretty)