I am in desperate need of a perfect black blazer/jacket. I just realized this morning. If you spot one in your shopping adventures, would you please send me a shout out?
When I received this message, I immediatley thought of the blazer below which I had just seen at a Shopping Field Trip (which reminds me, I should post on what a Shopping Field trip is) at New York & Co. I love the mix of “polish”, which a black blazer instantly creates and the “casualness” the rolled up sleeve creates. However, it’s the detail of the lining that you can see when rolled up that is the true winner of this blazer. Highly recommend this jacket (or similar) with denim or a bright colored skirt with some pretty flats or pewter flops.
Black Blazer, New York & Co., $69.99
admin Career Women, Dressing via Text, Mommy-preneur, Plus Size Women, stay-at-home moms Black Blazer, New York & Co., Spring Layers
This morning I received an email blast from Ann Taylor with the unveiling of their new wedding collection. This message reminded me that there are other retail stores out there that not only carry everyday wear but also own great wedding collections or wedding type attire. Below are some gorgeous wedding dresses for bride and party which I’ve found while searching for denim and tops. I’ve gotta tell you, unless you tell, no one will know where that dress came from.
Ann Taylor Wedding Collection – Although Ann Taylor only had one bridal dress, they do have a beautiful selection of neck candy that I would easily recommend for any bride. Where AT shines in their collection debut is by doing what it already does best…gorgoeus sihlouttes via bridesmaid dresses! Here is a quick glimpse at some of my favorites.
Silk Taffeta Strapless Dress, $215. This is a color and style that fits a variety of body types and goes beautiful against many skin tones. I love that this dress comes in a size 18.
Silk Scoop Neck Bridesmaid Dress, $215. This is a great cut that will fit a variety of body types. However, if you're trying to sell "you can wear it after the wedding" you're wasting your time as it only comes in pastel colors.
J. Crew Wedding Collection - I triple heart the wedding collection J. Crew has to offer. If you’re the type of woman that wants to have the “what everyone is going to wear” component done in one day, then this is your place. Seriously, you can have the bride, groom, wedding party, even flower girls dresses via the Crew.
Silk taffeta Sabine gown, $696. Simplicity at its best.
Silk tricotine Tatiana gown, $750. Perfect style for pettites.
Ludlow two-button tuxedo jacket, $495. Pants, $195. In my opinion, every man should strive to OWN a tuxedo. What better reason than your wedding.
- Girls’ silk taffeta Alison dress, $168. This reminds me, a mom can easily use any of these dresses for a girl’s comunion ceremony. too.
admin Career Women, Mommy-preneur, Plus Size Women, stay-at-home moms Ann Taylor Wedding Collection, Budget Wedding Styles, J. Crew Wedding Collection
Once a week I do what is known in my home as Recon (short for Reconnaissance). This is the day I venture the streets of Austin, check out retail stores, and learn of new tools for my style tool box. I’ll visit everything from vintage/thrift stores, to your typical anchor stores at the malls, to small specialty stores, to stores like Melrose or The Dress Barn…that’s right, Melrose and The Dress Barn. The thing is, you never know what you can find at a store or learn on how a store is evolving into something better (or worse, headed down a retail slump!). More importantly, I’m looking for how much that retail store has to offer a variety of women.
What does this mean?
Well, when I step into a retail store I’m looking for clothing that ranges from a size 0 to at least 12-14 (higher is a bonus!); prices are attainable (I don’t consider a shirt at $185 a steal…a treat, yes, but not a steal!); and finally, but most importantly…that I’m treated nicely. I don’t expect red carpet, but good manners is definitely noted. So, after years of having all of this information, I thought it would good for other women to also learn a little more about the places I venture into. Some stores will be oldies but goodies to you, others you’ll say, “What?! No way…I’ve gotta check that place out myself to believe it!” Just a quick note: A store does not become a Well Styled Favorite until three women of different body types and go into the store and find a items that work for them.
I will try my hardest to keep Well Styled readers in-the-know of my Store Recon once per week, so I’m going to backtrack to the stores I’ve visited since early January. If there is a store that you would like for me to check out, send me a message or leave a comment. After all, Well Styled was created for YOU!
admin Career Women, Mommy-preneur, Mommy-to-Be, Plus Size Women, stay-at-home moms
