Ready, Jet, Go!

Every project becomes my favorite to date, but this one is so good my eyes burn. For anyone that thinks this work is glamorous let me just tell you it is anything but!  I am a freaking work horse.  Blue collar to shame.  That is a small exaggeration but not really.  It all just goes back to perception.  We think everything looks good from the outside, but there is always a story.  Okay Jody and Amy DO look good.  Maybe that's why my eyes burn.  Anyway, the amount of blood sweat and tears that went into these Louboutin corset boots, but it was all worth it.  

Joseph Bradley Photography Models Amy Lee Whero of Marilyn's Agency and Jody Lee Petty.  Hair and Makeup by Jami Svay.

Valentine's Day For Him

What can I say?  I'm a sucker for an All-American Southern Gent.  If you are too, or perhaps your love language is Gift Giving, I hope you'll find some of the below items to be great ideas for the Him in your life, be it your spouse, brother, Dad or son.  Can't see the below image in your reader?  Click HERE.  

Remember THIS post?  I had just chopped all my hair.  Seems like ages ago.  It was!  I remember feeling a kinda sassy but very goofy and nervous around this sweet guy Nick, who is a real model/actor who so kindly volunteered his time to do this shoot.

Happy Valentine's Day a comin', ya'll!

Advanced Style

For many years now I have been following Ari Seth Cohen's high fashion, documentary style blog showcasing the street style of mature women and men live from the sidewalks of Manhattan and other great cities alike.  The stylish ladies he features, and their conviction to always put their most fashionable foot forward, remind me of both my Grandmother and Great Grandmother.  If the mailman was the only person she was to see that day my Grandmother was dressed to impress, masterfully accessorized, donning a perfectly coiffed hairstyle, finished off with a bright red or pink lipstick.

Below are a few recent images from Advanced Style.  Be sure to head over there, and actually, you should lock this one in your feed.  We could all take a fashion hint from these fearless style setters. 

I ordered the documentary and cannot wait to watch it this weekend with a girlfriend over wine and pasta.  I'll be sure to share my review!

'Tis The Season

Photograhy: Zach Alston. Models: Emma Claris and Tyler Von Seggern (Marilyn's Model and Talent Management). Hair and Makeup: Tia Rivers. Freaturing Kristin Hayes Jewelry.

'Tis the Season from one very special young couple on their first Christmas together!  This photo shoot with models Emma and Tyler was so much fun.  Everything about it was so magical and perfect.  Thank you to a good friend for opening her gorgeous home.  It was all made for a very prominent magazine if you ask me!  I had to get in on the action in the last picture.  How do you like my sexy tough model pose?  Ha!  Merry Christmas Everyone! I hope yours was filled with love, laughter, family and eggnog to your hearts delight.

For The Rugged Cool Man

Just a few chic gifts for your favorite rugged, cool man.  Yes, I want the antler chandelier lighting up every room in my (imagined) chalet in the woods, although one would look quite perfect in my Dad's cabin.  And, what man wouldn't love a bottle opener that tells him "Yes! You Earned It!"?  Only the happiest stocking stuffer ever.

Flask, Quilted Jacket, Bottle Opener, Gold Carry-All, iPhone Charger, Decanter Set, Vest, Log Carrier, Antler Chandelier

What The Hell Is A Pork Lawn?

Photography by: Joseph Bradley Photography.  Wardrobe c/o: Taylor, Richards & Conger, Banana Republic.

Styling Darin McEntee was easy an the eyes.  What more is there to say?  Oh, well he did give me a replay of the most hysterical episode of Family Fued of all time, and I almost peed in my pants in his passenger seat.  Whether you like pork or don't care for it, you NEED this for your hump day.  

Behind The Scenes Fav For The Ladies

In preparation for an upcoming photo shoot on Thursday, I came across one of my favorite Behind The Scenes videos.  It is one of my favorites for many reasons, but if you are female (or not), there's likely really no guess work.  Happy play and rewinding. Click and watch.

Cowboy Baby

Model: Dustin McNeer (Directions USA) Photography: Zach Alston. Hair and Makeup: Shaun Colomb. On location: Sugaree Ranch of Horsemanship

Ride 'Em Cowboy Dustin!  Nothing more to say about this precious lad.  

(Oh, and yes, he is an Abercrombie & Fitch model).

Styling Nick Silverstein At The Humane Society Of Charlotte

Clothing provided by: Belk, Blank Canvas, Silverfly and Taylor, Richards & Conger,

I reached out to some of the best in Charlotte's menswear for this comical and fun photo shoot styling Nick Silverstein at The Humane Society of Charlotte.  Photographed by the wildly talented young chap, Zach Alston, along with makeup and hair styled by Deme Fourtounis, Nick's exotic smoldering good looks deemed a perfect pair for our morning on set with our kittens and pups.

Hangin' With Paris

Shirt: J. Crew. Skirt: ASOS. Shoes: Cole Haan from Constance Consignment. Clutch: Vintage. Earrings: JewelMint. Bracelets: blydesign, Chelsea Charles, J. Crew. Cuff from Sloan Boutique. Cocktail Ring: Melinda Maria. Hair by: BLo ouT.

Such a fun impromptu meeting with Paris Pullen on the streets of Noda.  He'll probably want to kill me for saying this, but how adorably hip is this fresh prince of the Queen City?  Check him out four yourself at Higher Citizen. Untanned legs aside, I could not be more ready for spring!

Silverfly's School For Men

To all my savvy male followers and those who shop for them, I wanted to let you know about a fun event this weekend, School For Men. If you haven't shopped Silverfly, it's a fantastic men's store located at the Metropolitan offering "one stop shopping for denim, t-shirts, outerwear, work out clothes, grooming and accessories". Aside of the unique shopping experience Silverfly offers, owners Fidel Montoya and Keith Alyea are two of the nicest peole in the industry, and you know how I love local.  If you follow me on Instagram, you may recall seeing the below pic from a recent photo shoot of Mark Allen, AKA Mr. Tommy Bahama, styling Silverfly threads.  

School for Men isn’t just for guys — girls will love it too!  Also at the event, my fellow stylist and Sloan Boutique store director and jewelry buyer, Linda Martinez, will be on hand to offer seasonal fashion advice. RE Salon an Med Spa associates will be on site offering grooming tips, while you shop up to 50 percent off select items. SILVERFLY, 1111 Metropolitan Ave., Suite 150, Charlotte. (980) 819-7216, silverflybrands.com

I'm in Miami this weekend for a bachelorette party to celebrate this awesome, ridiculously hot, stylin' chic.  Happy Schooling!  Whitley

Revolve

If you live in the Queen City and ever shop for quality men's clothing, you're sure to know Revolve upscale men's consignment.  Voted Best of the Best by Charlotte Magazine 2011 and 2013 and Best of the Best by Elevate for years 2010, 2011, 2012 and 2013, Revolve offers savvy fashion forward men a more accessable way to shop the best of the best in fashion.  Revolve specializes in everything from t-shirts to tuxes in brands from Brooks Brother to Prada.  One of the hardest working, most community-centric people in the biz, I am proud to call shop owner, Amy Pickard, my sweet friend.  I couldn't resist not sharing with you the 411 on her Annual Winter Blow Out Sale.  As you see, most of the store will be up to 90% off the already killer prices, so this is a great time to stock your closet for next year.  You say you're ready to pass along your threads to another great closet?  Consign them with Revolve!
 

Happy revolving!  -Whitley

The Sporting Gent

All Men's Clothing: The Sporting Gent.  

My Outfit: Skirt: Woman Shops World. Tights: Gap (similar). Booties: Stuart Weitzman. Jacket: Gap. Purse: Chanel.

Charlotte friends, have you been to The Sporting Gent yet?  Located on the side of the historic Colony Shopping Center in the Myers Park neighborhood of Charlotte, The Sporting Gent is a gentleman's clothier and outfitter carrying some of the finest in outdoor and casual brands including Southern Marsh, Drake Waterfowl, Southern Propper, Rodd & Gunn, Hardy Fly Fishing, Sebago Footwear and more.  The Sporting Gent's mission is to preserve and support the true gentleman, from the field to the dinner table.  If you have been to The Sporting Gent, you know what a neat spot it is.  A missing niche has been filled with the finest. Whether you've visited yet or not, this Saturday is the perfect time to swing on by for some fellowship, refreshments (good bourbon) and holiday cheer. 

I hope to see you there after we finally get up our tree!

xo, Whitley

On The Farm

Donna and I shot these family photos last spring at my Dad's house.  Paw Paw's Massey was parked in the shed, so cousin Russ drove his new big blue Ford over to Dad's for an all hands on deck photo shoot in efforts to get Garden & Gun Magazine's attention.  My dream job would be styling and/or writing for them. Don't y'all think they totally need me?  Hoping they'll soon bite in my relentless pursuit!  Take a look and let me know what you think.

Thanks so much for being here! 

-Whitley

PS-How cute are my people?  Hoping to get them ALL in a shoot together soon!

Peachy

Whitley:

Dress and Earrings: Both vintage, thanks to Frock Shop. Clutch: JJ Winters. Shoes: Stuart Weitzman. Rings: Custom by Diamonds Direct. Hair and Makeup: By Cassie Hayden.

Matt: 

Suit, Shirt and Shoes: Matt's own. Tie and Pocket Square: c/o of Taylor, Richards & Conger

You may recognize this peach stunner from a previous shoot in which I used the dress in styling Victoria Vesce, Miss North Carolina United States. I originally purchased the dress for myself from my friend Caroline over at Frock Shop, but after I saw Victoria wearing it, I decided it had to be hers.  I can't wait to see her flawlessly donning it in more photos to come.  In the meantime, if you are looking for some unbelievable one of a kind frocks of your own, dating from the 1920's through the 1990's, take this as your official tip to get on over to Frock Shop.  A house full of treasures awaits you.

Mens Fall Fashion Preview at Belk

Recently I attended the 2013 Fall Fashion Preview at Belk where Vice President of Trend Merchandising and Fashion Direction, Arlene Goldstein, reviewed the men's fashion must haves for fall. Whether you're in the workplace or out for a night on the town, you can't go wrong with a sports jacket. This is an essential piece, because you can wear it with a nice pair of slacks or throw it over a pair of jeans for a comfortable but fashion forward look. Guys, be on the lookout for a variety of wine inspired hues from textured knit shirts, fine gauge sweaters and the classic corduroy pant that is making a major comeback this year. When it comes to shoes for the fellas, invest in a nice pair of desert boots. Desert boots are very versatile, so you will be sure to get your money's worth with a pair. Men, are you ready for a fashionable fall? I know we are!

Here is the Mens Most Wanted list for Fall 2013:

1. Plaid shirt

2. Textured knit shirt

3. Corduroy pants

4. Wine inspired hues

5. Sport coat

6. Fine gauge sweaters

7. The vest, tailored or a sweater vest

8. Five pocket pants- Denim inspired fit

9. English country tie

10. Desert boots

It's been a real treat expanding fashion and material for you male readers.  

Thanks fellas, (and ladies), for reading!

-Whitley

Abbeydale and Three Floor

Dress: Three Floor from Shopbop, also love this one and this one. Shoes: Cole Haan (old). Clutch: JJ Winters. Sunglasses: Blinde, similar pair. Earrings: Luv aj.

Two things I am loving right now: Abbeydale and Three Floor.  If you are a sharp dressed man living in or around the Queen City, or if you simply love a sharp dressed man, head uptown and check out David Watkins' new men's clothing store, Abbeydale.  My other current fav is my newest fashion encounter, Three Floor.  I recently purchased this dress (on sale now), as well as this dress.  The designs fulfill my never ending desire for totally unique and fun, and they are amazingly affordable designs.  Check out more from their collection here.  This was my first night out with our team of three!!  Thanks Donna and Cassie for a great shoot!

Thanks so much for reading! 

With love, Whitley

Night On The Town

This photo shoot is the third and final group of photos taken with the very debonair Jason Locust. Donning some of our finest garments, mine all inherited pieces from family, and Jason's, a collection of some of his favorite pieces, Reid's Fine Foods served as the perfect location for our throwback in time. One of Charlotte's oldest neighborhood anchors, a visit to Reid's is a treat and pleasure in every way.  If you haven't been, you must.  Treat yourself to some of the region's freshest produce, rarest cuts of meat or sweetest treats fresh made by some of Charlotte's best bakers.  To top it off, take home a unique bottle of wine, or have a glass in the appropriately posh seating area designed by one of Charlotte's finest in interiors, Barrie Benson.  Don't forget to put your most fashionable foot forward, and have a lovely time!

Thank you so much for being here, Whitley

Little Black Everything + J.T. Posh Giveaway

Whitley: Dress: Available at J.T. Posh. Shoes: Sam & Libby (old). Birdcage and Cuff: c/o J. Major's. 

Matt: Shirt, Suit and Shoes: Model's own. Tie and Boutonniere: c/o Taylor, Richards & Conger.

J.T. Posh is having an anniversary and to celebrate six years as one of Charlotte's most unique boutiques, they're having a party!  I've been a loving fan of J.T. Posh since they opened.  If you are anything like me and love one of a kind pieces at affordable prices, you love (or will love) J.T. Posh. Remember this necklace?  Not only is it a great place to find something fantastic for every corner of your wardrobe, it's one of my choice spots for consigning some favorite pieces who are ready to retire from life with me.  Whether you already are a regular at J. T. Posh or not, be sure to visit this Thursday, June 27th, 6-8pm.  There will be refreshments, fun and giveaways galore from local businesses. A little more fun...

Enter for your chance to win a $50 gift card from J. T Posh.

1) Mandatory Entry: Must be a follower of the Queen City Style via Email, GFC or Bloglovin'

2) Like J. T. Posh on Facebook

3) Like the Queen City Style on Facebook

4) Follow J. T. Posh on Instagram

5) Follow the Queen City Style on Instagram

Please let me know in ONE COMMENT all of the ways you have entered.  This giveaway ends Saturday, June 29th, and a winner will be announced Monday, July 1st.  Can't wait to see if you're the winner?  Mention the Queen City Style now through Monday, July 8th, and receive

20% off

your total purchase.

I hope to see you Thursday night!

-Whitley

Cool Men's Clothing, Myers Park, Microbrew + Giveaway

Shirt: Lucky Brand, other fav. Shorts: Lucky Brand/Irving and Fine. Boots: Charlie 1 Horse. Jacket: Gap. Sunglasses: Blinde, similar pair. Belt: old, similar. Necklace: thanks to Melvin Jewelry. Rings: Melinda Maria, custom by Diamonds Direct, Tiffany. Bracelets: J. Crew, thanks to Chelsea Charles, belonged to my Grandmother. Earrings: Luv Aj.

Charlotteans, there's a new men's store in town.  Located in the heart of Myers Park, Jilson's Men's Consignment carries an ever-changing variety of top quality threads including jeans, pants, shirts, sport coats, suits, shoes, accessories and more.  I cling to the philosophy that you don't have to spend a fortune to look like a million bucks, so when my running mate, John, let me know he was on the market for some fresh, new duds, Jilson's was the perfect time and place to apply my mantra to men's dressing.  With a sampling of brands including Brooks Brothers, Gucci, Hermes, J. Crew, Polo Ralph Lauren, Salvatore Ferragamo and more, Jilson's did not disappoint. After a full morning chasing my boys, the cold Natty Greene's Kevin offered me upon entry, kept the pleasantries coming. Fellas, the Jilson's Grand Opening party is this Saturday, June 1st.  This is the perfect time for you to check out the store, as well as the exotic luxury cars on display, and enjoy some complementary food, Natty Greene's brew, Outland Cigars and a few Giveaways. Visit the Jilson's website here for additional information including store hours, consignment and more. Perfect in time for Father's Day...

Jilson's Giveaway

New Ike Behar tie + two Natty Greene's Beers + two Outland Cigars + one sleeve Dunlop DDH Golf Balls

To enter:

1) Mandatory Entry: You must follow of the Queen City Style by Email, Bloglovin' or Facebook.

2) Like Jilson's on Facebook for a DOUBLE entry.

3) Follow Jilson's on Twitter.

4) Follow Jilson's on Instagram

Please let me know in ONE comment the ways you have entered.  This Giveaway ends Saturday, June 1st, and the winner will be announced the following Monday. 

Thanks so much for reading, and we hope to see you at the party! 

xx-Whitley