Merrick's Art // Style + Sewing for the Everyday Girl: little black dress

Showing posts with label little black dress. Show all posts

December 2, 2015

CREATING A WISH LIST FOR SMARTER SHOPPING

OUTFIT DETAILS: BLACK DRESS (also loving this one and this one) || BLACK TOP || OLD FUR VEST, SIMILAR HERE, HERE and HERE || HEELS || RAY-BANS || SIMILAR BLACK BAG

A few years ago, I was such a random purchaser. I was still unsure of my style, and when I stepped into a store I'd suddenly forget everything that was already in my closet and would just buy random things that made no sense and often didn't even fit my style or my body type. Now I keep a running wish list so I purchase thoughtfully, and it's been so helpful in helping me become a smarter shopper, purchase things that I will actually wear, and find pieces that compliment the rest of my closet. Plus, having this list comes in handy when my husband asks for a few ideas for Christmas.

I have a few big ticket items on my wish list right now, including a fit bit, a leather band watch, and some gold aviators, but I also have some less expensive things like new nail polish, clear sunglasses, a new iphone case, and a travel makeup kit (how cool is that?!). I love shopping my wish list at Nordstrom because of their fast and free shipping, and easy and free returns and exchanges (which is especially helpful if I send items on this list to my husband or my mom and later need to exchange colors or sizes).

One piece that was on my list for a few years was a pair of all black Ray-Bans. I finally got myself a pair this summer and they've become such a staple in my wardrobe, and were well worth the wait and the investment. They go with everything from beach cover-ups and flip-flops, to little black dresses, fur vests, and red lips. I love the classic chic vibe they give any outfit, and they make such a perfect holiday gift that's easy for other people to pick out.

Here are a few of my current favorites:

Click the images below to shop, or find text links below

TORY BURCH FITBIT || NUDE HEELS or NUDE HEELS || LIP LOVER LIPGLOSS ||

BUTTER LONDON NAIL POLISH || CLEAR SUNGLASSES

INITIAL NECKLACE || RED POLKA DOT PAJAMAS (comes in other colors!) || IPHONE CASE || GOLD RAY-BANS || CLINIQUE FOUNDATION || WHITE BUTTON UP SHIRT

TRAVEL TOILETRIES BAG || TORTOISE SHELL SUNGLASSES || CHUBBY STICK CHEEK STAIN || STEVE MADDEN ANKLE BOOTS || MARC JACOBS WATCH

Anyone else write down their wish lists to make shopping easier and more successful? Tell me what's on your wish list this year!

photos by rad and happy || created in partnership with Nordstrom

October 15, 2015

HOW TO STYLE A STATEMENT BAG

As we head into Fall, my style starts shifting to darker colors, more layers, and more neutrals. But since I still like to have something in my outfit that reflects my personality, I’ll usually add one statement piece.

Statement bags are a fun way to add a pop of color or boldness, and with Coach’s new collection of Swagger bags, I’m totally inspired to rock the bold statement bag look. They have tons of gorgeous choices full of rich and bold colors, perfect for complimenting your Fall looks. And with Zappos fast and free shipping (my purchases literally come the day after I order them), it’s basically the easiest thing ever to snag yourself a beautiful new bag for Fall.

So today let’s talk about how to style a statement bag for the Fall.

Keep your outfit neutral. When it comes to statement bags, let them do the talking. Keep the rest of your outfit more low key so the bag really stands out. Don’t let your outfit and your bag compete for attention -- let it be one or the other.
Choose a smaller bag. If the rest of your outfit is pretty neutral (like my all-black ensemble), then a giant bold bag is going to overwhelm. Keep it all balanced by choosing a smaller statement bag. This black and white crossbody bag from Coach’s new Swagger collection is the perfect size -- big enough to hold my wallet, keys, phone, and lipgloss, but not so big that I feel like a walking neon sign.
Add one other semi-bold piece. To keep your statement bag choice from being completely out of left field, add one other small accessory or something to compliment the statement. For my outfit, I chose a pair of black and white shoes which add another pop of bold that compliment without competing. You could also choose a necklace, a ring, a hat, a jacket, or something else that helps the statement bag make sense with the rest of your outfit.