Get Me Bodied

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Yes, I know. Another week, another old school song reference. But can you blame me this time? Who doesn’t love Get Me Bodied from Beyoncé’s B’Day album (pause…serious question here…what do we call collections of songs nowadays? Albums were before my time and no one buys CDs anymore. So, what should I say? B’Day stream? I’m seriously lost).

Okay, back to fashion. Can you guess what trend I’m highlighting this week? Yes! No? Okay, it’s bodysuits! They can be your best friend and worst enemy all at the same time. They’re great at sitting flush against your bust and midsection, eliminating the need to constantly tuck-in the extra fabric from your shirt. But, they can be your worst nightmare when you’ve waited a bit too long to go to the bathroom. Not that I’ve had any accidents…in recent history. There was that one time in middle school (don’t judge me), but I’ve learned my lesson since then. And yes, I had a drawer full of bodysuits in middle school. Back then I’d pair them with my Bongo jeans and Timberland boots.

Bongo jeans never made a comeback (I think), but bodysuits sure have! I’ve even rolled a few back into my rotation after a long hiatus. If you’re curious about introducing this convenient/inconvenient item into your wardrobe, check out my suggested pairings below.

1. Full skirts

A full skirt is the perfect complement to a bodysuit. Why you ask? Any item that has a lot of volume, á la a full skirt, requires a top that is more fitted. It’s all about creating balance in your look. Here’s a rule of thumb…if your top has a lot of volume, then your skirt should fit closer to your legs and vice versa.

full-skirts

Full skirts

2. Wide-leg pants

This is the same concept as the full skirt. It’s all about proportions. Body suits provide great balance to the fullness of wide-leg pants. Consider pairing the bodysuit with a blazer or long cardigan sweater, chunky heels and wide-leg pants for a day in the office. I promise you won’t have to worry about keeping your shirt tucked in all day long. 

Wide-leg pants

3. Paper bag waist skirts or pants

First off, what’s a paper bag waist skirt you ask? Don’t worry. It’s not made out of a paper bag! The name actually describes what the top of the pants or skirt looks like. See below. I love the paper bag look because it gives the average pant or skirt a little more personality. Not to mention this style is an easy way to achieve a cinched waist look and can expertly hide a bloated tummy.

Paper bag waist skirts and pants

Now don’t get me wrong. There are tons of other ways you can style a bodysuit. These just happen to be my favorite. You can just as easily pair them with skinny cropped jeans, a duster and open toe booties.

What say you? Are you on-board the bodysuit train? I’d love to hear how you’re currently pairing your bodysuit or how you plan to style it once you complete your massive bodysuit order from Asos.

xoxo,
shannon b.

P.S. – I’m really serious about what I should call music now. If you have any suggestions so I can stop sounding like a grandma, I’m all ears. Help me!

Who Spot Ya?

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What’s with the title? It’s my lame attempt at relating a popular fashion trend with a classic hit from the late, great Notorious BIG. Get it!?! Check out this link. If you have no idea what I’m talking about, disregard my attempt at being somewhat clever.

Now, on to why you’re actually here. It’s obviously not for my trip down hip-hop memory lane! Let’s talk about a look that you’ve probably seen ten times over by now…leopard print! I’m sure you’re probably thinking that leopard print is always around, which in essence is true. But we’re seeing it pop up in more than just a sexy dress or skirt. The print is taking over every part of our wardrobe, from cropped pants, to belts and even booties.

With so many options, where do we even begin? Leopard print is a very busy pattern. It doesn’t take much for it to become too overwhelming. The key is to take a completely neutral look and substitute one item with something that is leopard print. See a few examples below.

The Reformation – Marlon Pant

A pair of black slacks or jeans can be very predictable. That’s why I’m really loving this cropped pant paired with a basic black short sleeve tee. It just makes this look a bit more bold don’t you think? Who doesn’t want more fun? Since it’s still winter (booooo!), try pairing these pants with a black or brown blazer. You could also pull in a fitted cashmere sweater in a fun color like candy apple green or pink.

Vici Dolls – Logan Faux Suede Loafer in Leopard

Aren’t these loafers fun? Can’t you imagine throwing them on with some cropped jeans, a basic white tea, hoop earrings and a beige boyfriend cardigan before you head out to run a few errands on a Saturday? These loafers exude just the right amount of panache and upgrade the typical “running errands” fit (short for outfit) to look effortlessly cool.

J. Crew – Demylee™ X leopard-print scarf

Since the cold weather is still upon us (if you’re an east coaster), then you know a scarf will remain an essential part of our wardrobe at least for the next couple of months. Since that’s the case, why not have a little fun with it? I know heather grey is a safe, neutral choice, but let’s take a little risk! Try pairing this scarf with a green coat or on top of a denim collar shirt.

I don’t know about you, but I think this post was ‘spot on’, if I have to say so myself. Okay, okay. I’m done trying to witty. Let me know what you think about leopard print, if you already have it in your closet, or will be doing some online shopping immediately after reading this post!

xoxo,
shannon b.

One Sweater…Three Looks

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Know how to get the best bang for your buck in your closet? Make sure to invest in pieces that can be paired with multiple items in your closet. Sound hard? Not really. I’ll show you how.

Let’s take the following sweater.

Polka dot short sleeve sweater

One might see this sweater and think it can only be paired with a black pair of slacks or ankle length skinny jeans, but there are so many other options that can create multiple looks in your closet.

Pleated skirt

This pleated skirt is a great option for pairing the short sleeve sweater. Although unconventional, this skirt paired with the sweater and over-the-knee boots creates an incredibly fun look for the office or a lunch date.

Leather leggings

These black, faux-leather leggings are a simple way to add a little edge to an otherwise classic-looking sweater. Paired with open-toe booties, hoop earrings and a cropped jacket, this look can take you from a client meeting to happy hour with your girlfriends.

Cocktail dress

Lastly, pairing the sweater with a simple cocktail dress is another way to expand your wardrobe options. This is a fun look that you could wear on a date with your beau or to a fancy brunch with friends.

Now, that I’ve given you a few ideas, take some time and look through your closet. See if there is a random blouse or pair of pants that you’ve never matched before. This can be a fun exercise…kind of like playing dress up in your closet. I’d love to see the new combinations you come up with. Please share below!

xoxo,
shannon b.

Wardrobe Essentials for Today’s Woman

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I’m sure we’ve all picked up a magazine in the past 10 years and read an article about the top five items EVERY woman should have in their closet. The list usually consists of a white collar shirt, basic black pumps and a brand name handbag. These are known as classic pieces. In other words, they are fashion items that never go out of style, so making a sizable investment in each item was not only accepted, it was warranted! I will admit, there was once a point in time when I tried to make sure that I had every item in my closet. That was the old me. The new me often rebels against society’s norms…check out my Down with Corporate Suits and An Open Invitation to Judge Me blogs for proof.

Back to the list. It think it was relevant for the 80s, 90s, and early 2000s everyday woman. Women back in those days had more traditional roles…worked traditional 9 to 5 jobs, blah, blah, blah. Today’s woman looks and operates completely different. Today’s woman comes in many different shapes, sizes and hues, and they wear so many hats…entrepreneur, mother, leader, influencer, wife, innovator, sister, boss, friend, activist, blogger, etc. You get the picture. Today’s woman needs flexibility not only in her professional and home life, but in her closet too. Today’s woman wants an outfit that will take her from the school carpool lane, to a client meeting at her WeWork office space, to lunch with her business partner, back to her home office for a conference call over Zoom, and then to the soccer field to cheer on her child star athlete.

All this to say that I think that the essentials list of yesteryear badly needs an update, so here’s my advice.

1. White collar shirt OUT/Blazer IN

What can one say about blazers? They are the quintessential article of clothing that classes up any look in a matter of seconds. And there are so many different variations. From the classic, structured black blazer to a boyfriend style in Heather gray. Historically blazers were always paired with a matching pair of pants or pencil skirt. Today blazers are paired with everything from stretch pants, to joggers to jeans. Tip: Invest in one structured blazer and a more casual style like a boyfriend blazer. Also, try fun prints and colors like this yellow one from my fave J.Crew.

Boden Elizabeth Ponte Blazer
J.Crew Regent Blazer

2. Basic black pump OUT/Casual shoe IN

Read my lips…I’m not saying you need to throw out your pair of black pumps. You might need a pair one day when you attend a funeral or go on a job interview. Pumps have a purpose, but they’re not practical for everyday wear. What if you’re a city dweller and depend on subways and Uber’s to get around? Or what if you’re a suburbanite like me who drives barefoot because you’re afraid your heel may get stuck under the gas pedal (don’t judge me)? Heels look amazing and add an extra layer of sophistication to any look, but today’s woman needs practicality. Casual shoes are not only functional, they are extremely fashionable and will take you from a business meeting to the after school bake sale without having to change in the parking lot. Tip: Consider purchasing a pair of causal shoes from Keds. You’ll thank me later.

Sam Edelman Emory Pom Pom Sneakers
Kate Spade New York Keds Glitter Lace-Up Sneakers

3. Brand name handbag OUT/Crossbody bag IN

Can I just say that besides dresses that have pockets, crossbody bags are my favorite fashion invention? There are so many benefits to wearing a crossbody. They keep your hands free and even if there is no scientific evidence to back this up, I feel like they are better for your back and shoulder alignment. Crossbody bags tend to be smaller, which means you can’t cram all of the junk you would carry in a normal sized bag. And…crossbody bags deter thieves! How Sway? Think about how the bags sit. The crossbody sits diagonally across your torso instead of vertically on your shoulder like a regular handbag. It is much easier to steal a bag that is just sitting vertically on your shoulder versus one that it is sitting on it diagonally. Boom! I’m sure I’ve just blown your mind! Tip: Trade in that handbag for a crossbody and see how your life will change. Your shoulders and back will thank me.

Mansur Graviel Crossbody Bag
Charlotte Crossbody Bag

4. Jeans OUT/Stretchy, casual pants IN

So, I think it’s been almost two years since I’ve worn a pair of jeans. Isn’t that crazy? So what do I wear you ask? I found the most amazing pair of pants at my Holy Grail J. Crew Outlet almost three years ago and I haven’t gone back to jeans since. They are super stretchy, but the fabric is thick, so they don’t look like thin leggings. They have four pockets and come in black and blue. I have two pair in each color and am on the verge of buying two more. They are so comfortable. I don’t know if I’ll ever go back to jeans. And don’t get me wrong. There are some really comfortable jeans out there, but nothing compares to these pants. I wear them all the time. They are perfect if you are doing a lot of moving around, getting in and out of the car, going from meeting to meeting or even going to the grocery store to pick up dinner. They are the perfect pair of pants for any occasion. Tip: Find the perfect pair of pants with a great amount of stretch and quality fabric that will take you from point A to point B, and all of the points in between.

Boden Hampshire Skinny Pants
Loft Floral Embroidered Riviera Pants in Marisa Fit

Now that I’ve shared my updated list, what do you think? Do you have most of these items already? Are there items I missed? I’d love to hear your feedback, good or bad, so let’s get a discussion going. What’s the one go-to item in your closet that you can wear for any occasion? Let me know in the comments section below.

xoxo,
shannon b.

Make Room in Your Closet for These 3 Spring Trends

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The time change yesterday is one of the last indicators that Spring is officially on the way! Goodbye winter coats, chunky sweaters and over-the-knee boots or OTBs. Hello Spring dresses, open-toe everything and pastel colors.

There are so many Spring trends popping up all over the place and it might be hard to figure out what trend will work best for you. Not to worry! I’ve scoured all of the latest blogs, magazines and clothing stores for you (you’re welcome) and have come up with a short list of three items that you should add to your wardrobe for Spring. Are you ready? Let’s go!

1. Polka dots
I know what you’re going to say. “Polka dots! Really?” Yes! Polka dots are big this season, but don’t feel like you have to go crazy and buy a whole polka dot ensemble. It’s definitely a statement making pattern, so you don’t want to go overboard. Too much can be overwhelming and a bit childish looking. Pick one polka dot piece…a blouse, pencil skirt or cigarette pants and pair it with a solid color. Maybe try polka dot accessories like a clutch bag or an umbrella (ella, ella, ella, eh) for those rainy Spring afternoons. Polka dots always seem to find their way back into the “on-trend” rotation, but this time they have returned with a twist. Instead of the traditional white dots against a black or navy blue background, we’re seeing white dots and multicolored dots against non-traditional colors like forest green and copper. Give this trend a try and after it runs its course, store them somewhere in your closet. I’m sure it will come back around as a “must-have” trend in the next few years.

Natasha Zinko Polka Dot Blouse
Polka Dot Rain Boots
Saloni Portia Polka-Dot Crepe Peplum Midi Skirt

2. Straw bag
Nothing says Spring/Summer more than a straw bag and this new trend comes in so many fun shapes and sizes. Up until this season, most of the straw bags I’ve seen were typically a large tote size. Now, I’m seeing them in clutch, bucket and medium size. And if you think, straw bags are only for the beach, then I beg you to think outside of the box. Straw bags are making their way into the corporate office, on brunch dates with your girlfriends and to happy hour with co-workers. Though I’m a big fan of a neutral color straw bag because they basically go with any and everything, bold colored straw bags can be the pop of color you need to break up a monochromatic ensemble.

San Diego Hat Woven Straw Bag
Loeffler Randall Straw Travel Tote
Sophie Anderson – Nilsa Circle Toquilla-Straw Cross-Body Bag

3. Flare sleeves
I’m happy to report that flare sleeves (or bell sleeves) are still on-trend. I actually wrote about them in my last Spring trends blog and I guess they have now become sort of a classic. I don’t know if it’s the way they flow when you move your arms back and forth, but wearing flare sleeves always makes me feel really feminine and graceful. Nowadays there are so many flare sleeve options…from blouses to jumpsuits and dresses, and the flares come in various sizes from extremely voluminous to slightly narrow. Flare sleeves are the quintessential Spring piece because they normally come in light, breathable fabrics that provide enough coverage for those cool days, but not too much to where it seems like you’re dressed for a snow storm. Flare sleeves are a perfect Winter to Spring transition piece. Try pairing a flare sleeve dress with OTBs and a sleeveless duster.

Avenue Lace Bell Sleeve Top
Eloqui Emerald Bell Sleeve
Charlotte Russe Off-The-Shoulder Floral Bell Sleeve Top

Now that I’ve taken all of the hard work out of figuring out what you should wear this Spring, which piece or pieces are you going to add to your closet? Let me know below. Or if there is a trend that I didn’t mention, but you plan to wear, let me know below too.

xoxo,
shannon b.

An Oldie But Goodie

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A few weeks ago us residents of the DMV-area got a break from the coldness of winter and received a visit from the warm rays of the sun. It was glorious! I walked outside for lunch and people were picnicking like it was Memorial Day weekend. The hardcore runners were out in their athletic shorts and sports bra to match. Convertible owners were riding around with the top down. It really felt like summer was finally here and I was SOOOOO here for it. I mean I like winter and all…Christmas, my birthday, Valentine’s Day all happen during the coldest months of the year…BUT, summer has always been my first love! So fast forward a couple of weeks and now we’re back in the 40s. What happened? This type of back and forth weather drives me crazy.

So, what do you wear when the weather can’t make up his/her mind about which season he/she wants to be in? I thought that this was would be a great topic to blog about, but then remembered that I wrote about this very conundrum before. I went back and read what I wrote back then it’s definitely still relevant today, so here you go…check out my blog about how to dress for wishy-washy weather.

Have a great week!

xoxo,
shannon b.

 

If I Lived in Wakanda…

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Two weeks ago…
Obviously, you can tell from the title of this post that I’m still basking in the greatness that was Black Panther. I, like millions of other people, had anxiously awaited the movie’s debut since 2017 and needless to say, I was not disappointed. I was so confident in how amazing this movie was going to be that I actually started writing this post before the movie even came out!

Present day…
So now that I’ve actually seen the movie and all of the beautiful costumes, I started to imagine how I would dress if I was a citizen of the technologically advanced Wakanda. Since my trip to Nairobi and Cape Town (read my last blog for details), I have been inspired by African designs and prints and have acquired more than a few pieces that I absolutely love! Check out a couple of my favorite designers below.

Chinero Nnamani
Vibrant! What more can I say about this brand? I was first introduced to this designer last summer as I spent my lunch break burning calories (sike!) walking through Tysons Corner Mall in McLean, Va. The clothes were beautifully displayed in a pop-up shop near one of the mall entrances. I normally don’t stop by pop-up shops in the mall, but I was lured by the bright colors. After giving a few of the pieces a thorough hand inspection (get your mind out of the gutter!), I was pleasantly surprised by the thickness and quality of the fabric. Each piece is durable and well made, and the best part is that I’m not nervous that they will completely fall apart when I throw them in the washing machine. Anyone who has ever purchased ANYTHING from Forever 21 (no shade) or H&M (serious shade INTENDED), you know what I’m talking about! I could definitely see myself wearing one of these gorgeous outfits wandering the streets of Wakanda. If you’re interested in any of these pieces, check out the Chinero Nnamani website soon. In honor of Black History Month and the release of the Black Panther movie, Chinero Nnamani is offering 50 percent off of merchandise through February 28 (woot, woot!)

Kofi Midi Dress
Amai/Soludo Reversible Crop Top and Skirt

Melange Mode
So, I’ve been eyeing the beautiful designs on the Melange Mode website for a few years now and I finally pulled the trigger and purchased the following jumpsuit. Two words…bomb.com! It fits so well and did I mention that it has…POCKETS?!?! Ughhh, I am literally on pins and needles waiting for the first 75 degree weather day to break out this hot number. Paired with some bold hoop earrings, a neutral clutch bag, and some sky high heels, I’ll definitely be Wakanda-ready in this look. The quality of this jumpsuit is also impeccable and will hold its own against the rigors of the washing machine. Even though I can’t wait to wear this look, I was a bit hesitant to include it on my blog, because I haven’t been able to find it online anywhere. I would suggest that you regularly check the beehive Atlanta website for updates. The designer, Yvonne Ghyselink Pearson also has other great pieces like maxi and midi skirts that would serve as great investment pieces for anyone looking to include original African print designs in their wardrobe. To add to her street cred, Mrs. Pearson’s designs have appeared on the likes of celebrities like Destiny’s Child member Michelle Williams and Rev. Run’s daughter Angela Simmons.

Melange Mode Jumpsuit
Melange Mode Jumpsuit

Quick soapbox moment…
Black Panther and the beautiful setting of Wakanda gave me all of the warm fuzzies I felt when I visited Africa last year. And even though Wakanda is a fictitious country, it reminded me of the greatness that lies in the lush greenery, natural richness and thriving metropolis-feel so many countries in Africa already possess. Yes, television shows and movies will have you thinking that Mother Africa is all dirt roads, wild animals running amuck, and shanty towns with no running water or electricity. That could not be further from the truth. What I experienced was sophistication, elegance, and vivaciousness…which perfectly describes Wakanda, the beautiful African countries I’ve visited and the beautiful pieces from Chinero Nnamani and Melange Mode.

Off my soapbox…
For more warm fuzzies and a few “uh-huhs”, check out the #InWakanda hashtag on Twitter. You’ll thank me later!

xoxo,
shannon b. 

Where I’ve Been, What’s New and White Boots

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It’s true. I haven’t touched this blog or my Instagram page for more than a year, and I wish I had some really elaborate and exciting reason as to why, but the truth, is I don’t. Life happens and I took a break, but I’m back now, so let’s catch up!

1. Where Have I Been?

Well, in the last year I started a new PR job in corporate America, celebrated six years of marriage, dedicated countless hours to the Women’s ministry at my church, helped launch two satellites into outer space (crazy and random, I know!), hosted our first Thanksgiving dinner, oooo and I spent two glorious weeks in the Motherland…Nairobi and Cape Town to be exact. Can I say that my time in Africa was ABSOLUTELY amazing, life-changing, and all of the good words ever invented? I loved it so much that I want to spend my next few vacations on the continent of Africa exploring new countries. The whole experience was phenomenal. I can’t even put it into words. I was so inspired by the people, the beauty, the fashion, the energy, the EVERYTHING! From going on a three-day safari and seeing elephants up close and personal, to feeding giraffes and traversing up Table Mountain, it was definitely an experience of a lifetime and I can’t wait to go back. I’ll share some snaps below.

2. What’s New?

So, remember that new job I literally JUST told you I started last year? Well, I’m actually about to start a new one in a few weeks. Crazy right? I still can’t believe it myself! Even though I feel like I’m always starting a new job, this time around I really didn’t see this new opportunity coming.  I wasn’t even looking for a job. God has definitely blessed me in the “job getting” business, so all glory to Him! Other than a new place of employment, I really can’t think of any other new things to report. Still no dog (sad face). Still no kids (happy face, happy dance, happy life, etc.). Still no endless clothing budget (double sad face).

3. White Boots?

Okay, so this section is a little random. At its core, this is a style blog, so I have an obligation to talk about some element of style. So here goes. I’ve noticed this trend of wearing white boots with almost everything. I’ve seen celebrities rock white boots. I’ve seen girls in the street wearing white boots. If you love the look and have a pristine pair of white boots sitting in your closet right now or if you have a pair sitting in your shopping cart on NastyGal.com, then I recommend you don’t read this any further. Okay, I warned you! Here’s my verdict on white boots…I’m not a fan. Period. That’s it. No more to say about it.

I think this is it for now. Writing this first blog of 2018 wasn’t as daunting as I thought it would be. I already have a few fun ideas for some future posts, so stay tuned and thanks for reading!

xoxo,
shannon b.

3 Style Resolutions for 2017

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Can we you hear the sound of people cheering, champagne popping and Auld Lang Syne (the NYE song) blaring in the midnight air? I just described what New Year’s Eve looks and sounds like for many of you. Can you believe we are less than a week away from 2017? This year has flown by!

As traditions go, the end of an old year and the start of a new one inspires people to set resolutions. So, in conjunction with the same old resolutions you make every year, like losing weight, eating healthier, saving money and praying more, let’s include a resolution about how we’re going to present our best selves in 2017. I came up with three style resolutions below and I invite you to adopt one or all for 2017! Let’s go!

  1. Only buy or wear what you absolutely LOVE. – Why is this important? Because, we spend a lot of money and closet real estate on items we only feel lukewarm about. Would you stay in a relationship with someone who you feel indifferent toward? Then, why would you want to buy or wear something in your closet that doesn’t make you feel fabulous? And I don’t mean that it made you feel fabulous three years ago. If it doesn’t make you feel like a goddess today then let it go. Clothes are an investment. We wear them everyday. Make sure every dollar you spend on clothes is toward an item that makes you excited to wear it. Do an inventory of your closet. It might take you a while to get to a place where you LOVE absolutely everything in your closet, so start with baby steps and eliminate the pieces that you can live without.
  2. Embrace a new color, print or pattern. – Notice I said “a” new color, print or pattern. I’m not asking you to adopt the whole rainbow! We are all creatures of habit, which is reflective in our closets. If we like the way we look in a particular color, then we’ll buy everything under the sun in that color. Let’s commit to trying out a new color that’s not currently in our closet (for me, it will probably be pink). For example, if you’re partial to only wearing stripes, why not give polka dots or floral print a try?What will introducing a new color do? Glad you asked! It will widen the buying field for you and you’ll have more options of things to wear.
  3. Take better care of what’s already in the closet. – How many of us are guilty of turning a blind eye towards blazers, sweaters, dresses, etc. that are dry clean only? How many of us hang our sweaters instead of folding them? How many of us just kick our shoes off and don’t place them back in their box? How many of us have a tangled mess of necklaces and earrings in our jewelry boxes on our dressers? How many of us throw the handbags that we once treasured on the floor in our closet? Did I just describe myself? I, for one am guilty for committing a lot of these atrocities (too dramatic?). The clothes, accessories and shoes in my closet are an investment and I must admit, I don’t always treat them that way. Sure, when I first get a new bag or pair of shoes, I’m extra careful to store them properly…but after six months, all of the tender, love and care is out the window. Let’s take better care of our investments all year round, that way they’ll last longer!

So as we bring in 2017, think about how you want to present yourself in 2017. It might start with one or all of the resolutions I shared above. Or you might have your own, which I would love to hear. Comment below and let me know if you are committing to these style resolutions or creating your own.

xoxo,
shannon b.

In Case You’re Feeling Generous…

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And have a few extra dollars to spend on gifts for the holiday season, I’m sharing my wish list below. We’re less than a week away from Christmas and I don’t want you to stress about what to get me, so I’m laying it all out for you. You’re welcome!

  1. Arimas Jewelry – I’m not sure how I stumbled upon this handmade jewelry line, but I’ve been obsessed for months. Every piece from the Sparkling Chocolate Africa Ring II to the Africa in Bloom Earrings are absolute perfection and I can’t wait to start building up my collection. I’m super inspired by the African themes that are reflected in a lot of the pieces and hope to wear them on my trip to the Motherland next year. I’m typically drawn toward big, bold statement pieces, but I really love the subtleness of this particular line. Check it out for yourself and let me know what you think! P.S. The Sparkling Chocolate Africa Ring is on back order, but don’t get discouraged (I’m talking to myself). There are still tons of other fabulous pieces that are in stock and waiting for you to purchase for me!
    Arimas Tiny Statement Studs
    Arimas Elephant Armlet
  2. Carmine Heel Slingback by Coach – I’ve had a pair of slingbacks on my “nice to have” list for a while now. I’ve just been holding out to find the right pair and I’m confident these are it! This slingback screams class and quality, which are two adjectives that come to mind when I think of Coach. Though it might be too cold to break these out just yet, spring is around the corner and I can’t wait to pair them with an off-the-shoulder top and skinny jeans. Also, good news to report… these slingbacks have been reduced significantly in price since I first spotted them, so I’m optimistic that they’ll magically appear under my tree. Don’t all jump at once now!
    COACH Carmine Slingback – Saddle
    COACH Carmine Slingback – Black
  3. Mae B. Stationery – Maybe it’s the old lady in me, but I have always collected different kinds of stationery. I am almost ashamed to admit how much money I’ve spent in Papyrus, Paper Source and Hallmark over the last several years. So, as you can imagine, when I found Mae B.’s online store I completely fell in love! From the personalized note cards to the thank you cards and the 2017 weekly calendar, I could totally add every item from the online store in my shopping cart. Since I go completely crazy for stationery, I couldn’t exactly wait for Christmas to unwrap these paper beauties, so my mom snagged a notebook and personalized note cards for my birthday. See below. I absolutely love them, but of course I want more!

Mae B. Notebook
Mae B. Personalized Note Cards

So there you have it. A few items that are on my Christmas wish list. I really think this list is obtainable for you, but you have to order now so that I’ll get them in time for Christmas. Got it? Okay! Happy shopping!

XOXO,
shannon b.