Shoulder Show

January/February: time of the year when everyone is sick of winter (and ALL their winter clothing options), but spring is still so far away that the thought of wearing a sundress is a far off dream. This is considered a transition period by most, but there isn't much of a move toward spring weather in my eyes. An easy solution to these winter blues is throwing a cold shoulder top into the mix. This adds immediate interest to any outfit, and you get to show a little skin without sacrificing warmth.

I found this cold shoulder at H&M, and have worn it so many times in the past two months! It's an easy piece to layer, or make the center of attention; a very versatile and much needed addition to any closet (and at a price that won't break the bank). I chose to pair my cold shoulder top with this gorgeous faux leather Ann Taylor skirt for a slimming "I didn't completely lose my summer body" look. I topped it off with a faux fur Ellen Tracy jacket, velvet and leather Ralph Lauren bag, and BCBGeneration studded heels. What staple pieces help you get through the never-ending last months of winter?! Leave a comment below! Happy shopping loves. xoxo

Top: H&M

Skirt: Ann Taylor

Jacket: Ellen Tracy

Bag: Ralph Lauren

Shoes: BCBGeneration (Similar Here)

Bracelets: Alex and Ani

The Perfect Winter Party Dress

I love dressing up and going to fancy events, but in the winter it is undeniably harder to find the right outfit. It seems like store racks are filled with LBD's and sequin-covered dresses for the holidays, but a girl can only own so many of those before she gets bored. I recently came across this gorgeous Nicole Miller dress (linked below!) and knew it had to be mine. The floral brocade fabric is appropriate for winter months, and the sparkly cobalt blue makes the pattern pop off the dress. Not to mention the open lace back makes any entrance, and exit, one to remember.

I recently wore this for a New Year's Eve party, and received many compliments! I kept the accessories simple by adding black suede ankle strap heels and a black velvet Ralph Lauren crossbody bag. The mixing of fabrics added interest without taking away from the stunning fabric of the dress. If cobalt isn't your color, this dress also comes in a gold/bronze option as well. Happy shopping loves! xoxo

Dress: Nicole Miller New York

Jacket: Betsey Johnson

Shoes: Sam Edelman

Bag: Ralph Lauren

Bracelets: Alex and Ani

"Fashion Comes from Within"

I think for many people, fashion means wearing famous designer names from the runway, or following unrealistic trends that are often seen in couture magazines. In reality though, fashion is all about taking risks and trying new things. When was the last time you thought a pair of skinny jeans and a plain t-shirt was on the brink of the fashion scene? I'm guessing not recently; it's a safe outfit. When you find the drive to seek out and create fashion though, there are often great results. And that doesn't mean dropping hundreds of dollars on a dress. I've found many of my favorite pieces at H&M and TJ Maxx. It's all about the desire for something different, and the willingness to go find it.