Manners and Moxie

One of the best ways to update your wardrobe and put some pep in your step is with accessories. An update like this is a favorite of mine but also easy to pull off. Statement making sunnies are the perfect Spring trend accessory to get people asking if you’re somebody special. I know, I know. You’re all like “Duh, of course I’m special”. While I couldn’t agree more adding some shady specs will really seal the deal.

Expensive sunglasses are beautiful but dropping a lot of dough isn’t necessary. Great style is great style. Period. If you DO want to go that route I’d suggest investing your money on a pair of timeless frames. Though today I want to touch on the trendier type which are a bit more bold. I’m loving this sunny superstar trend! Are you? Why not try something new? Statement making shades are great conversation piece and I guarantee people will remember you long after the moment has passed.  

Here are a few favorites that won’t break the bank:

Blinding Daze Cat-Eye Sunglasses

Of course I had to finish this list with something glittery! These are the first glasses I would have grabbed while playing dress up as a kid. I guess some things never change. Besides this list and other specs on the webernet, a few more stores are great for inexpensive sunnie finds. In my experience great selections can be found at T.J. Maxx and Marshalls along with Target.

Here I am with my “hide and seek” selfie traveling back from LuckyFABB. I found these A.J Morgan sunnies at Marshall’s and snatched them up! So where are your stunner shades? Let me see how you werk your Shady Lady  

XOXO

Nic

Life has been holding down my fast forward button lately and much as I’d like to say it’s over, this week will be much the same. Nevertheless, I can’t stand to be away from you any longer so I’m back and powering through. I thought this post would be a little shorter but apparently I don’t have an edit button. I’m ridiculously happy you’re here so we’ll get down to the stylish business at hand.

Great trends abound this Spring and this outfit combines a few. I wore this a few weeks ago to a wonderful store opening in San Francisco. Azil Boutique is a great jewelry & accessories store that opened it’s second location in Russian Hill. I’ll be sharing more about Azil with you soon so stay tuned. Color is always popular when warmer weather arrives but florals have been especially popular this season and last. They’re fun and feminine but like any print it’s a matter of preference; You have to find a color and pattern you like. Not all florals are created equal so take the time to find one that won’t make your eyes bleed.

Another HUGE trend? Black and white. Stripes in particular, especially bold ones if you’re game. While these aren’t bold I like this shirt because it’s wonderfully versatile. Any combination of black and white is great but this season go graphic if you can. This combination is great news for those to don’t follow trends as closely because black and white will never go out of style. You can veer a little trendier with small wardrobe updates while still being able to shop your closet.

Leather is another big player this season though you’ll be finding it in colors other than black. White, blue, brown, blush. Whatever your heart desires! For this look I couldn’t help but sneak in a little more time with these black pants but I’m loving lighter colored leather for Spring and Summer. Have you jumped on that bandwagon yet? To keep things interesting I choose purple suede shoes and then doubled up on necklaces for texture. If you haven’t tried layering necklaces yet I highly recommend it.

If you work in a more creative field you could easily wear this to work. If not, these piece’s could be broken down and paired with other items to make them work appropriate. Or wear them whenever you want! What’s your favorite trend this Spring? Is there a particular one you’d like me to post about? So the next time you’re starring at the closet consider tossing pieces around like this Spring Mix. Let me know what you come up with!

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

XOXO

Nic

Pants – Walter Baker (similar) // Blouse, Earrings – Forever 21 // Sweater (similar) – Merona // Shoes (similar) – Steve Madden // Bag – Kooba (love this one)// Necklaces – H&M (similar) & gifted (similar) // Rings – Forever 21 and raided from mom // Bracelets – J.Crew, Forever 21, Swarvoski and raided from mom // Watch – Seiko // Glasses (splurge) – Old Navy

Hi people! Sorry for the hot minute around here but the past few weeks a proverbial bulldozer dropped a pile of “Life” on me. I’m climbing out, dusting myself off and clearing away the rubble. My most recent days have been busy but fantastic! I was hanging in LA for Lucky Magazine’s Lucky FABB conference. There were bloggers, brands and industry folks abound with a “FABB” time had by all. I’ll share a more detailed recap later but in the meantime here are a few Instagram photos from the last few days.

To keep up with the latest Manners and Moxie news I can be found on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter and Pinterest. You can also click on the floating icons in the corner and I promise an outfit post is on its way! Thanks for the love and support!!!

XO
Nic

There are few things I find so lovely as lace. Decidedly feminine, with its light quality and intricate nature, it holds a special place in my fashion loving heart.  Anytime I saw lace as a child it immediately conveyed to me a sense of maturity and elegance. Almost like a secret that’s whispered in your ear; Though quiet, it bears heavy minding. A woman seen to be wearing the fabric somehow said “Pay attention kid. I know what I’m doing”. 

As you can imagine I’ve been thrilled at it’s reemergence into the fashion favorites category.  Have you been a long time lover of lace? Or are you a recent convert?  Either way, welcome to the party! I find lighter colors, like this blush colored cardigan are easy pieces to mix into a wardrobe. They can dress up your denim, add texture to leather skirts and pants or give menswear a subtle, feminine touch. As you see I buttoned the collar all the way on my shirt to emphasize the ladylike quality of the lace.

This look is great for transitional weather because even though I have tights on, I’m still wearing shorts. The shirt and sweater are enough to keep you covered and comfortable. If necessary add a jacket for cooler days. The lace back on this cardigan is a modern take that’s unexpected. Details like this are an easy way to add something into your wardrobe without it overwhelming you. A little can go a long way, so decide what kind of statement you want to make. 

Since I wore mostly neutrals, (Yes. Animal print is a neutral these days.) I added a pop of citrus color with my bag. Though bright, the structure of it compliments the other pieces. One of the reasons I like lace is because it’s complicated and has dichotomous qualities. It’s delicate but shows strength. It’s prim, yet seductive. It carries a history but can appear as trendy. Complication at its best! Do you find lace lovely? How will you be wearing it in the coming months? 

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

XOXO

Nic

Shorts (similar)- via Piperlime // Shirt - Banana Republic // Cardigan (steal)- Ann Taylor // Booties – Vince Camuto // Belt – Target // Tights – DKNY // Bag – Kellie & Katie (splurge) // Necklace (cool option)- Nordstrom Rack // Rings – Jewelmint, raided from mom and Darling NYC // Bracelets – Ofina, Forever 21, Swarvoski and raided from mom // Earrings (steal) –  ? // Glasses (similar steal) – Charlotte Russe  

What’s Your Personal Style?                                                                                                                                                                     **Partnered Post**

They say that money can’t buy style. However, you can certainly develop your own personal style by paying attention to your preferences in fashion, art and design. If you can pin point what your’re drawn to then it becomes easier to mix and match trends with classic, tried and true pieces. That way your personal style (and closet) can develop longevity but remain current. Sound like a difficult task? It’s easier than it may look and just takes the right kind of practice. For example learning to distinguish hyped up trends that are short lived versus something timeless and effortlessly chic. A small amount of knowledge can help you create a look that’s truly your own. Of course you can also check out the newest trends at sites like Opening Ceremony..

When starting a personal style journey begin it with a love of self. Knowing what you appreciate about your body vs what you find challenging will help when deciding what’s best suited for your body type. You don’t need to be model thin to wear anything and everything. Just figure out what works for you to make you feel comfortable and confident. How? By learning to highlight your best assets of course! For example, if you have a boxier figure, then maybe you’ll want to highlight your great legs. Or if you love your arms then wear something sleeveless. When trying out a new trend, find the best way to incorporate it into your life and know it may change depending on the trend. Is it a piece of clothing? Or maybe just an accessory? You decide.

A wardrobe doesn’t just have to include the season’s newest pieces or designer items. Try mixing it up with something vintage from a thrift shop or your mom’s closet. Shopping and styling should be a fun, relaxing and enjoyable activity. Another relaxing activity is playing online games with Cheekybingo. With its fresh and vibrant community, you could meet new fashion minded friends and swap style tips and tricks. Looking closer at your style icons may also help you recognize your personal style. Can’t think of any? What about your favorite movies, music or celebrities!/ Each Spring and Fall much of the world watches the collections from designers and labels during New York Fashion Week. Paying close attention there will give you a leg up on what to except in stores the following season. If you haven’t already, consider creating a mood board or an inspiration wall to pin pictures and photos from which you can draw style inspiration. There are a number of ways to accomplish that and like me, you may start finding inspiration everywhere you look! Where do you find style inspiration? 

So what can I say? Some days are just made for chillin’. When you’re in that kinda mood it’s time to throw on your jeans, tee and some sneaks. This is one of those outfits you don’t really “plan”, it just kinda happens. The sporty trend is in full affect for Spring and this jacket fits the bill at a great price point. Originally I planned on pairing it with a pencil skirt to give it more polish. Except when I started getting dressed, it just didn’t feel right. Ever had one of those moments?

I’m a firm believer that if you’re not feeling it, no one else will. Confidence is like a silent partner in the styling game; You won’t succeed without it. In this case it was more a matter of mood than confidence. but they’re still close cousins. A skirt just felt too restrictive so I nixed it and threw on some of my favorite Gap jeans. They’re super comfortable and this style of fit is great for rolling up.

Since I was switching gears already, next I grabbed a bright, colorful t-shirt to brighten things up. I’ve had it for years and there’s something about it I find appealing. The color? The pattern? Probably both.  Do you have any favorite t-shirts you can’t part with? My Converse sneakers are another old favorite. While these are navy I also love them in white, especially when it’s warm out. Adding an animal print belt felt right and gives these basics a little extra personality  Anyone else feeling a sporty 90′s vibe here?  

When I’m out “running the streets” I can’t be bothered with holding a purse, so only a crossbody will do.  This one is just big enough to hold my essentials.  When it comes to layering jewelry, I find it a bit like piling on personality; Sometimes less, sometimes more. After a decent dose of  jewelry sunglasses were next on my list. Mirrored sunnies felt like an obvious choice and no one does aviator’s like Ray Ban. Does your mood play a role in what you choose to wear? If so, is that a help or hindrance? As for my all star “point” in the last picture, how could I not?!

XOXO

Nic

Jeans - Gap // T-shirt (cute option) (splurge) – Forever 21 (old) // Jacket, belt, bag (similar) (splurge) – Target // Shoes - Converse // Rings – Darling boutique in NYC and Raided from mom // Necklaces – Tiffany & Co, The Name Necklace and local artisan // Earrings (splurge on sale) (steal) – Jewelmint // Bracelets – H&M, Forever 21, Swarvoski and raided from mom // Watch – Seiko // Glasses - (steal) Ray-Ban 

For many of us grabbing a basic top and bottom completes our look 7 days a week. You’re good to go and OTD (out the door), right?! If simplicity is your thing, no problem, but you can easily step up your basics game while keeping stylish and easy breezy. I love this look because it’s pretty darn simple but appropriate for SO many occasions! Add a cardigan and this will get you through a day at the office straight out to a night on the town! Change the heels out for sparkly flats and you’ll look chic running all those errands on your list.

Next time instead of wearing jeans just grab another pair of dark, slim fitting pants. Anyone can wear this style it just depends on the fit. I also recommend a dark color because the pairing of dark top and bottom is just so chic! For this outfit I chose a warm, toffee brown but black, grey, maroon, olive, etc… any of those would be a great choice. 

Pair them with a single colored dark top. Sexy, but not TOO sexy.  This one has a nice drape to it and a deep neck line elongates your frame. Of course, I’m pretty minimal in the “girls” department so you may not feel as secure with this open of a neckline. Decide what you’re comfortable with because your confidence level will make all the difference when trying something new.

The last and most fun part (I think) are shoes and jewelry. Personally, I think every lady should have a sparkly pair of shoes. It’s kinda like a rule, right?! They may seem over the top but trust me when I say you’ll be happy you got them. Next you’ll need a necklace that gives a POP and draws peoples attention. This top provides a deep v neck so I played off the shape with a bright, geometric choice. Another great thing about wearing solid color neutrals? It allows your accessories to take all the glory. So have fun with them, be adventurous!

While I don’t see myself leaving color and pattern for a full time relationship with neutrals anytime soon it’s a nice, easy change. As you see I couldn’t help myself and threw in a printed bag to mix it up. What’s your best simple style trick? Are a sparkly set of shoes in your future? Oh! One other thing I wanted to mention… In these photo’s I appear to be tan. If only! Trust me when I tell you it’s NOT the case, though I wish it were true.  So the next time you want to keep your style no fuss, but fresh, step it up. It’s simple

*** I’m linking up with Amber of Real Girl Glam for Real Girl Style and Catherine of Small Town, Big Wardrobe for Whatever Works Wednesday. Check out the other great gals!

XOXO

Nic

Top – H&M (splurge)// Pants (love this color) – Banana Republic // Shoes – Nine West  (open toed splurge) (pointy toe)// Bag (fun option1, option2) – H&M // Necklace (black version) – Forever 21 // Bracelets – J.Crew, H&M, Swarvoski and raided from mom // Rings – Forever 21  and Banana Republic // Earrings – raided from mom // Watch – Seiko //  Glasses – Target 

You say leather, I say peplum. Leather! Peplum! Leather! Peplum! Seriously though, how could you not wanna get down with this?! What a great combination of ladylike toughness! Leather has been huge this season. Do you remember this post? Or this one? Well if you’re late to this party don’t fret. The leather trend is continuing through into Spring but you’ll be seeing it in lighter, brighter colors. Nevertheless it IS still February (at least for today) so I’m breaking out my black one before Spring fever blinds me.

Traditionally peplums are such ladylike pieces but I wanted to combine a look that played off the leather instead. My style is a bit like a pinball machine, always bouncing from one idea to the next. So it’s really all about what I’m feeling in that moment and for this particular look I wanted some strength. Do you like ladylike pieces with an edge?

I headed over to boyfriend land with these jeans from Gap; Completely versatile and relatively affordable they are a must have denim style for everyone!  Keeping them rolled up allows these shoes to flirt with someone’s sight line a bit and I love the strappy, corset like quality they exhibit.  Already follow me on Instagram? If so you’re probably yawning over this necklace, since you’ve probably seen it but just in case… I LOVE IT! I’m a Leo, so show me anything with a big cat and I’m sold! And it’s sparkly? Swoon!

With all this tough girl business swirling about adding a blouse brought back some femininity. This one has a delicate feel since it’s slightly sheer with gold polka dots… and nothing about “dots” says tough hehe. Cat eye glasses lend this look retro warmth and style in contrast to the other black pieces.  A clutch and other jewelry, some vintage, some modern rounded out my additions. 

Have you been wearing leather this season? Peplums of course have been big news but how do you feel about them in this material? One of the many great things about fashion is choosing the elements that speak to your personal style. This time around that means I’m moving into Tough Girl Territory. 

XOXO

Nic

Jeans – Gap // Blouse, leather peplum – Piperlime // Shoes – Topshop (similar) (love these)// Necklace (so cool) & earrings (similar) (love these) – J.Crew // Rings – Jewelmint and raided from mom// Bracelets – J.Crew (good option) (so cool), Swarvoski & raided from mom // Bag – raided from mom // Shades – Tres Noir // Watch – Seiko

Happy Monday to you all! Who says you must give up your sparkly weekend dreams at the start of a new work week? Pas moi, mes amis! If anything, why not treat yourself and have dessert first this time. Of course if you want ACTUAL dessert you’ll have grab that yourself, but at least I’m here to help you with the metaphorical kind. A touch of sequins never hurt anyone and there’ll be plenty of time to get serious later.

Mr.T’s birthday was earlier this month so a bit of celebrating was required. With my amazing cousin in town the 3 of us headed to Twenty Five Lusk for dinner. Of course HE thought it was to be a quiet night after tying one on the previous night with coworkers. Little did he know I’d arranged for friends to surprise him and meet us for drinks. After arriving to find a friend in line I thought he may have figured me out. Luckily, he was blissfully oblivious and happily surprised by a lot of friends.

So a girl wants to look cute for her guys bday… And this sequin skirt was calling my name. Do you remember seeing it here? I wanted to balance the light color of the skirt with something dark but still keep it sexy. This sweater provides the kind of unexpected sexy details I love and was the first piece of clothing I bought after moving here. Azalea is a wonderful boutique in San Francisco but you can shop them online if you don’t live in the city. Their selection is stellar!

Booties seemed like the obvious choice to keep my toes warm and the tough, but sexy look going. An animal print bag only adds to that feel but then I veered back towards femininity with a single, delicate necklace. This gorgeous necklace c/o by boe is a such a beauty, as are all her pieces. Many have unusual shapes or details which drawn me in. Do you like unusual jewelry too? The earrings I wore are vintage and a few other baubles finished off my look. I’m always drawn towards the unexpectedly sexy or unusual details like this sweater. What would you wear with this skirt to keep someone guessing. Will you be searching for your own Out Back soon?

XOXO

Nic

Skirt – H&M (longer length) (good option)// Sweater – Something Else via Azaela boutique (colorful option)  // Bag (similar) – Rebecca Minkoff  // Booties – Vince Camuto  // Necklace – c/o By Boe //  Rings – Jewelmint and Forever 21 // Earrings – unknown vintage // Bracelets – Forever 21 (or this one), Swarvoski and raided from mom // Sunglasses – Old Navy (love these) // Watch – Seiko

There will be some skirting around today’s conversation…. Corny enough? I thought so too, but I couldn’t help myself. Just like I couldn’t help myself when I found this maxi skirt and it was INDEED a find! Not in the way that it was on super sale (because it wasn’t expensive to begin with) but just that I found it all by it’s lonesome and thought it needed a good home… like mine!

This skirt’s been residing in my closet about a year; The only one to be found in the store. I’m guessing it was either a random return or just happened to be the last skirt standing.  Are you a maxi skirt maven? They’re fantastic but so far I only have a few. I’m rather picky selective about maxi’s so when I find one I like I scoop it up! Maxi skirts are great transitional pieces! Try layering one with tights (long johns in the Midwest?) boots and a sweater during the Winter. When it’s warm, be cool with a tank or t-shirt and sandals. They’re great for travel too so roll one up in your getaway bag on your next jaunt!

My affinity for prints and most things graphic is no secret. This skirt checks those boxes and at $15ish; a no brainer. It’s sheer so I wore a long slip here. Pairing the skirt with a pop of blue in this classic sweater keeps things simple and chic. A statement necklace brings it up a notch and makes this a great look for a party or date night. I kept the jewelry more minimal than usual but suede sandals and a clutch finish it off.

Do you like to wear maxi skirts? How would you style this one? I was attracted to this skirt because it’s different than other’s I’d seen. It’s also got the twirl factor and makes me feel a bit like floating when I walk. What’s your maximum effect? This is mine.

XOXO

Nic

Sweater – J.Crew // Skirt – Forever 21  (love this one) // Sandals – Steve Madden (another option) // Necklace – NYC street vendor (love this one) // Rings – Banana Republic, Forever 21, raided from mom //Glasses – Old Navy ( splurge) // Clutch – Vintage. raided from mom