Manners and Moxie

Sometimes you just want to take in the view and appreciate the beauty around you. What’s your interpretation of beauty? I believe there are elements of loveliness in most things. It just depends on your definition, vantage point and of course your individual “filter”. The photos below are from my few days of Charleston travel. Like a big dummy though, I left my battery charger at my parents so I didn’t get to play the role of fun loving photographer as much as I’d have liked. Wish I had a more and a greater variety to share but here are a few:

I’ve also included this little sneak peek of my next personal style post taken the day we arrived. Though for now, being that it’s Friday, I hope you have a wonderful weekend full of beauty; unexpected or otherwise!

XOXO

Nic

Yes. I will not deny borrowing this title from Portlandia but with today’s look I couldn’t help myself. But other than having a bird print on my dress no other fine feathered friends were used to capture this look.  I wore this adorable little frock while frolicking around Charleston with Mr. T a few weeks ago. Specifically, I wore it for an evening out and a delicious dinner at McCrady’s. Don’t you love wearing dresses come Spring and Summer?

One of my favorite things about warmer weather, and maybe the thing I miss most about living on the East Coast, is the changing seasons. For those folks, the heat & a cute little dress is right around the corner. Needless to say I took full advantage of my time back home in SC to keep things simple. Dress, bag, shoes, GO! Well actually, I take that back. Add jewelry. Maybe something like this necklace? THEN go.

I found this cutie pie of a dress at Kohl’s when I was searching for something else. I don’t shop there regularly (there’s not one near me) so if I swing by it’s usually for something particular. Of course, I never found that “something else” but this dress (at 40% off) was the happy accident of successful shopping dreams. The accompanying belt was missing (I couldn’t care less about the dang belt) so I requested an additional discount. Thank you Kohl’s! Hello additional 15%! That left me paying less than $25 which makes me excited enough to put a bird on ANYTHING! 

Even though these tweety birds are limey in color this bag paired wonderfully with them. Things don’t need to match, they just need to go; Unless of course you’re pairing matching prints then yes, THOSE have to match heh heh. I can see myself wearing this quite a bit during the warmer months and as it turns colder it’ll be great for layering with tights and sweaters. Is your happy place found in simple outfit pairings when it’s warm out? Maybe it’s a feeling we hold onto from childhood. That life is somehow simpler during Spring and Summer time. Carefree. Happy. Joyous  Or maybe, getting dressed just seems easier when you Put A Bird On It .

** I’m linking up with Amber of  Real Girl Glam for Real Girl Style today. Aren’t these ladies looking great?!

XOXO

Nic

Dress – Kohl’s – Use code BLOGGER10 for 10% off! // Bag (similar) – Urban Expressions // Sandals (similar) – Nine West // Belt – Banana Republic // Necklace – Forever 21 // Sunnies (splurge) – Charlotte Russe // Rings – Unknown and raided from mom // Bracelets – Banana Republic and unknown // Earrings (similar) – Forever 21

She’s a teacher, supporter, best friend, shoulder to cry on, cheerleader, nutritionist, soft place to fall, reason to smile, organizer, caretaker, mechanic, jokester, communicator and giver of life. She’s the reason I go through this world with an open heart. When I become injured, whether physical, mental or emotional she’s the reason I know there will be a brighter tomorrow. I’m open to adventure and the journey we call Life because I am loved, supported and always believed in. She taught me authenticity is the ONLY option. Give to the world and it will give back to you. I received the best gift the day I was born. She is my mother.

Happy Mother’s Day mom!

xoxo

Stinker Pie

As you probably know by now I like a good opposites attract mashup. So when Mr. T and I were strolling about in Charleston recently I took this look to the streets for a walkabout. Charleston is usually warm this time of year but the weather was playing tricks on us. Cool, but humid breezes had me frustrated and a hair up vs hair down battle ensued. “Damn you curly frizz!!!

But I digress… I’ve worn this blazer and lace tank combo before but usually with jeans. Denim would’ve been too hot so I paired them with cotton shorts instead for a new look. Wearing sandals during the previous few days had my poor tootsies begging for a change. These oxfords gave them a needed break and allowed me to “man up” with a menswear feel in this look. Did you see the last time I wore these oxfords? You can see them here.

Combining a black blazer, two tone oxfords and grey shorts feels very masculine. With this lace tank playing tug of war, routing for the ladylike win, additions were needed. So…. (trumpets sound in the background) a glitter belt to the rescue! Well almost. The glitter belt couldn’t do it alone. This Oxford Lady still needed a little more “lady”. Adding a bright bag, mixed metal jewelry and some cat eye sunnies gave me the final push I needed to get out the door.

Do you find yourself choosing comfort over style when discovering new territory? Or is it a balance like one between masculine and feminine? In my case, roaming the historic streets of Charleston with Mr. T always makes me feel like a lady; The oxfords aren’t required but are always welcome

** I’m linking up with Amber of Real Girl Glam for Real Girl Style. Check out all the great looks! 

XOXO

Nic

Blazer (similar) & lace tank (similar) – Banana Republic // Shorts (similar) & glitter belt (similar) – Target // Oxfords (love these & these with a few outfit details changed) – Steve Madden // Bag  (similar) – Urban Expressions // Necklace – Tiffany & Co // Earrings (like these) – unknown // Bracelets – Forever 21 (similar cuff style), Swarvoski and raided from mom // Rings – Forever 21, Jewelmint and raided from mom // Sunglasses – Tres Noir // Watch – Seiko 

Ladies love handbags. There’s no way around that and I’ll happily display my membership to what I call the “bag lady love club” any day of the week. No matter the size, shape, textile or fabric we need to tote our crap around so might as well do it in something we love! Right?! Last month while attending Lucky Magazine’s Lucky FABB conference I was introduced to d’andrea handbags. Getting clued in on this great designer easily makes my favorites list. These bags are a perfect blend of utility and luxury which you can now snag at 30% off during their Mother’s Day sale!

Nicole, the designer, was inspired by her grandfather who was a cobbler from Italy.  Through inspiration, experience & additional education d’andrea handbags and the Mister Collection was born. Initially, after seeing these bags I almost jumped over the table to abscond with ALL the Misters; they’re quite handsome! Luckily, I kept my cool and have been waiting patiently to give Mr. Player a friend. So when I heard about this special sale I couldn’t keep the news to myself! All the Misters can now be had at 30% off from May 4th -May 13th. Never had a One-Nighter? Well here’s a chance at your own with only stylish results for an outcome.

When Nicole started telling me the names of the Mister’s (Mr. Arrogant, Mr. Emotionally Unavailable etc…) I remarked to her that she must of had some interesting dates. Not only is this a girl I’d wanna hang out with but I think d’andrea handbags are a great combination of style and story; both of which I love! So grab your own Mister during this great sale and start making memories. After all, if we have to carry baggage it might as well be stylish!

XOXO

Nic

My Mr. Player (pictured above) was c/o of d’andrea handbags but all opinions and reviews given here are my own.

Sometimes we’re forgetful. Even if our first reaction or sentiment was excitement! Of course by “we’re’ and “our” I mean me.  Enter the Graphic Girl. These pictures were taken a while back and I forgot to post them. I really love this combo and though the colors don’t exactly shout “Spring” these leggings are on point for the season’s black and white/ graphic trend.

Leggings are tricky to wear if they’re basically spandex, like these.  A graphic print can help distract the eye if the pattern repeats plus black and white dresses up a look up without necessarily “dressing up”. I mean they’re leggings, right?! But who says comfortable can’t be cool? If you keep the silhouette slim on the bottom a long, sheer shirt can camouflage any concerns without covering you up. This one was a Christmas gift from my sister that she found during her semester abroad. I love the pearl detail on the collar which lends a delicate quality to this modern look.

Crop tops are making the rounds again too and a long, sheer shirt makes them more wearable. The shoes I kept on the tougher side and these oldies, but goodies always treat me right. With dark colors playing major roles in this look a few pop’s of color were necessary. This bag is one of the best purchases I ever made along with this statement cuff from Ann Taylor. The bead design ties in to the pearl collar while the color is a great compliment to the bag.

What’s your favorite detail or trend in this look? Would you change something to make it your own? I realize I was forgetful about posting this look initially but I hope Graphic Girl makes an impression that won’t quickly be forgotten.  

XOXO

Nic

Leggings (polka dot version) (another here & denim version), top – H&M // Blouse (steal) (patterned pick)- Zara // Shoes – Nine West // Bag (similar) – Urban Expressions // Bracelet – Ann Taylor // Earrings – Banana Republic // Rings – Jewelmint and raided from mom // Sunnies – Charlotte Russe // Watch – Seiko 

It’s so nice to see the sun! I’m currently in South Carolina for a little visit on my home turf with Mr.T. This of course means a feverish attempt to soak in time with family and friends but the clock keeps ticking! We also snuck in a mini vaca during our visit by scurrying down to Charleston for a few days. It’s a gorgeous city with so much to offer so get your butt there if you’ve never been. With so much to do and never enough time I kinda resemble a juggler with a few balls on the ground. A new outfit post will be coming up but in the meantime here’s an Instapeek at the past few days and a sneak peek at my next outfit post. To keep up in real time you can follow me on Instagram here.

Happy Friday!

XOXO
Nic

I’m sure you follow Manners and Moxie on Facebook and Twitter (just click those site links or the floaters on the side) but in case you don’t (I posted this news there), I didn’t want you to be left out in the cold. And by cold I mean I didn’t want you to miss out on J.Crew’s amazing sale going on through April 28th! I buy a lot of my J.Crew pieces on sale which I’ll freely admit. It’s even more exciting when they offer an additional 20 or 30% off their already reduced prices! Those promotions are usually final sale so I either go to the store or err on the side of caution if I’m not sure on fit. Well, right now J.Crew’s offering 25% off EVERYTHING! Which means those pieces you drool over, but sell out while you’re hoping they make it to the sale section can now be yours at 25% off! Here are some pieces I’m currently craving:

No. 2 pencil skirt in navy-white stripe

AUDEN® lenox bib necklace Goldsign® for J.Crew Jeane jean in sunset wash

Midrise toothpick jean in grey Collection toulouse floral short Translucent stone bracelet

Perfect shirt in mint plaid Graphic dot underwire tank

AUDEN® devon cuff Kira metallic sandals

Collection featherweight cashmere shell in microcheck Sparkle dot dress

Swoop top in punk floral Collection leather pant

Bouclé jacket in colorblock Lillian glitter low wedges Liberty bow tie in Emma and Georgina floral

Any favorites from my lineup or pieces on the site that I didn’t add here? What’s on your MUST HAVE list? This 25% off promo is great because you can return something if it doesn’t fit or you just don’t like it. Here’s a shopping tip for you. If you like something, try it on no matter the cost. If it’s not in your budget at regular price cross you fingers and hope that it makes it to the sale section. If or when it does you can pounce on the item and not worry if it’s final sale; You’ll already know your size, how it fits and if it’s something you want to buy. Also, take note that sometimes they offer free shipping & returns on certain sections so it may “pay” to consider purchasing an item from the highlighted category. Right now they’re making that offer on swimwear, which happens to be pretty darn cute. Enter code SPRINGBEST to receive your 25% off. So shop away and let me know what ya get at Club Crew!

XOXO

Nic 

Some people are just meant to be friends. The same can be said for clothing. Enter leather, moto jackets and t-shirts; Especially t-shirts depicting famous books about life On The Road. The credit for how I acquired this tee actually goes to the other T. in my life. I’m referring to Mr. T of course. He was kind enough to stuff my Christmas stocking with this little prize and I’ve wanted to share it in a post for a while. When I was deciding what to wear it called to me from my dresser drawer saying “Pick me! Pick me!”  

Once the lead role was chosen I moved on to the supporting fashion cast. I love this blush leather skirt and it’s right on trend for Spring & Summer. Did you see this  post the first time I wore it? Not only is lighter colored leather on trend but it’s a chic way to dress up a t-shirt. The shape of the skirt is also important. Pencil skirts are classic and denote a ladylike quality. I know there’s nothing about pencil skirts that say “ride a motorcycle” but for some reason I want to ride one wearing this… Well, maybe sit on one… sidesaddle.  

Moto style jackets are maj every way you look at it. Though I do love them in leather, that would have been a bit too much. For me, I found this denim jacket to be the perfect pairing of style and texture. This style of jacket gives whatever your wearing a little edge. Pair it with a silk dress, boot cut pants, cargo capri’s, maxi dresses, full skirts… etc. I’d say it’s one of those few pieces that if you can pick it, you can pair it. Do you like moto jackets?

A few finishing touches help pull everything together. These Chinese Laundry pumps are one of the best shoe purchases I’ve ever made. The gold toe is a must have detail that gives off sophisticated, strong, sexy all day, every day! Aviators sunnies keep things cool in addition to some delicate jewelry for a ladylike touch. Would you wear a t-shirt with a pencil skirt? What about dressing up a t-shirt? If you find me wearing this sitting sidesaddle on a borrowed motorcycle don’t be surprised. That will be the ONLY kind of moto on roading I’ll be doing.

XOXO

Nic

Skirt (similar) (splurge), Jacket  (similar)- Forever 21 // T-shirt – gift from Mr.T // Pumps – Chinese Laundry // Clutch (splurge) (steal)-  Raided from Mom // Necklaces – Tiffany & Co and ? // Earrings – gift from Mr. T // Rings – Forever 21 (similar), bought in Mexico and raided from mom // Bracelets – H&M (similar), Swarvoski and raided from mom // Watch – Seiko // Sunnies (steal) – Ray Ban  

We are all creatures of habit at times. Of course it’s much easier to recognize it in someone else than in ourselves. So this past week when a coworker pointed out I’d worn stripes 2 days in a row it caused a little internal hmmmmm. It was true of course. Recently I noticed, on occasion, I keep cozy to a color or pattern combo during my work week. It’s like once my brain wraps its tentacles around my Monday outfit I boycott other possibilities. In this instance it wasn’t intentional but there it was, glaring at me from my OOTD pics.

You can prevent this styling “step and repeat” by settling on a look the night before but if things are chaotic (please see my picture in the dictionary), your brain may be waving the white flag for a time out. Following recent patterns can become the order of the day which is how I ended up in a weeks worth of stripes. Normally I like to vary my looks whenever possible but my work attire is a little more curated. Obviously there’s a certain dress code but beyond that I’m always cold so I favor pants and long sleeves. If I’m going to be waking around a lot then I prefer flats or a mid heel (which are very trendy right now. YEAH!).

I’ll do my best not to wear stripes this week. Not because I’m giving them up. No, no, no. That will never happen because I’m a firm believer in their awesomeness (and a closet staple(ness;)). They do however, deserve a break for working overtime last week. Since these pics were quickly taken with my iphone I know they’re not the best but that doesn’t mean they should go to waste! Just in case you have a hectic week ahead and need some ideas I thought I’d share my stripes gone wild week plus a few more from various days. Stripes not your thing? No problem. Pick a color, pattern or other detailed theme for the week to make your life easier.

So whether it’s this week or one far, far away you may find yourself needing to take a brain break. When that happens, listen to your talking head; Plan a Stripe Cast so you can concentrate on your other needs. I promise your closet will understand.

XOXO

Nic