Designer Crush: Ulla Johnson

What can I say, but Ulla strikes again. If there is one brand that continues to turn out aspirational yet all the while wearable designs season after season, impressing all the rest, Ulla Johson keeps on remaining right up there at the top. Girly and flowy meets trailal and bohemian for a carefully clever mix. Cult-like individual pieces range from instantly indentifiable to cute but steady Sally staples that will remain in the forefront of your wardorbe for years and years to come. Shop all of these designer crush looks by clicking on the below images.

Shop The Post + Get The Look

SouthPark Mag: How It Went Down & Get It

Model: Chelsea Lewis, Photographer: Zach Alston, Hair and Makeup: Chelsea Kimrey.
Adrienne Landau Fur from Denim House, MinkPink Crop Top from KK Bloom, Alice + Olivia Loran floral jacquard skirt from Neiman Marcus, Eugenia Kim hat, Joie taupe suede boots and Nima jeweled clutch from Sloan, Twine & Twig Cowrie Collar, Chakoor silver bracelet from ChezElle.

I shared this photo last week at the bottom of a previous post.  This project is one of my favorites to date, if not my favorite.  A big thank you to SouthPark Magazine for putting their trust in me and giving me so much creative freedom for this shoot.  When I met with the Editor to discuss ideas for their Fall Fashion editorial, she asked me for my ideas.  My first question was "Do you have any parameters?"  Her answer?  "Fall Fashion".  Okay. Well, let's play ball!  I had not given it any forethought, because I was just so excited for a second opportunity to express my love of fashion on the pages of this great magazine.  But goodness, the proverbial flood gates were wide open.  No trends. No boring catalog sales pictures. Just straight up art, created with an amazing team and the intent to showcase the fall fashions available at some of Charlotte's hottest boutiques.  

The cover shot, taken in Dilworth, is one of my favorites. Just about every single items the model, Chelsea, is wearing, comes from a different store.  If you are interested in how the outfits came together, the crew came to my house; my basement transformed into a studio.  I mixed up some Buffalo Trace and Coke, along with fresh muddled cherries. We turned up the music, and suddenly I was that little girl at my Grandmother's house. Mixing and matching her clothes with my Great-Grandmother's.  This skirt, that hat, these shoes, that shirt, no this one, these earrings, this necklace, another necklace, oh wait one more.  Oh hell, just put 'em all on.  And so the outfits were born.  Not too much time, not a great deal of thought, but certainly a fair amount of discretion. If you live in the Queen City, be sure to visit these stores, or you may shop the post straight from this page, below the above image. 

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!

ZuZu Kim Clothing and Bow Ties

Since I write for a number of publications, I am constantly being introduced to new and cool fashions, brands and accessories.  One line of clothing I received a friendly hello from back in the fall is ZuZu Kim. Christina Kim, a classical pianist, created the brand by designing striking and romantic clothing for her performances. This, in turn, inspired her to create the ready to wear ZuZu Kim brand.  I was first introduced to the brand's line of bow ties I happen to think are perfectly chic for both him and her, but once I dove into the website a bit further, I realized I couldn't take my eyes off of all of her sleek and alluring collections.  Check them out here.

The Carolinas Most Stylish

As if ONE isn't enough, Carolina STYLE is fresh off of the heels of the Winter Book making plans to unveil their second coffee table book, The Carolinas Most Stylish, celebrating people in the fashion, beauty, entertainment, business and non profit industries who are making a real impact in their community.  My list of nominees includes clients and colleagues, as well as a few individuals I think already have killer taste, but I wouldn't mind adding to my client roster.  Nominate your picks for the Carolinas Most Stylish here!

Yes Sir! That's My Baby!

Photography: Ellie Lacey, on Instagram. Dress & Purse: Vintage, Sunglasses: Love Obsessed, Shoes: Cole Haan, Earrings: c/o chloe + isabel by ashlyn, Bracelets: Blydesign, Madewell, Jook and Nona. Ring: Melinda Maria.

I recently came into possession of a number of amazing vintage frocks and accessories like this navy dress and purse.  A friend of mine was given piles upon piles of heirloom brand and quality pieces passed along to her by her mother-in-law who was the caretaker for a very stylish elderly woman moving into assisted living.  The woman lived in a beautiful home on one of Charlotte's prettiest streets.  She had no remaining living relatives close by, and so my friend's mother-in-law was given many of her possessions.  The mother-in-law wanted the clothes to be passed onto someone who would value and appreciate them.  Knowing my penchant for high quality vintage, my friend notified me.  I rushed right over for a look, and what I did not take was passed along to a local theater.  Bergdorf Goodman's, Dior and Bob Mackie name a few of the brands, many of the pieces purchased on her regular visits to New York City.  When I went to my friend's home to collect the items, I  had the pleasure of hearing a few sweet stories from the mother-in-law who cared for this dear woman.  I learned her favorite song was "Yes Sir! That's My Baby!" and how she would sing the lyrics strolling down the hall.  It reminds me of the stories I would hear of my Great Grandmother watching the Lawrence Welk Show.  The memories tied to the owner are what make the items so special.  I can't wait to share more of these beautiful clothes with you.

Ahead From The North

Photos: Ellie Lacey and on Instagram

Skirt: Mossimo Supply Co., Vest: Ralph Lauren, Shoes: thanks to Julie Lopez Shoes, Sunglasses: Blinde (similar), Earrings: thanks to Geoflora, Black Ring: Melinda Maria, Bracelets: Calf Hair, Geometric Cross Cuff thanks to Blydesign, Necklace: Jan Michaels

As you know, it's been a long, long time since I've hit the streets of Charlotte in search of the next coolest place for pictures here on the blog.  I ran into my precious cousin Ellie a couple of weeks ago while having coffee at 7th Street Public Market.  Can I just say I love family?  On my father's side my Grandmother was the youngest of 11, so as I'm sure you can image, there are a whole ton of them.  I was so excited when Ellie asked if we could take some photos.  I'm always up for an adventure, so when she suggested a spot North of the city that boasted amazing views of the skyline, I said let's do it! This expansive piece of pavement soon to be light rail served as a fun location for several photos to come.  It's a good thing we captured it when we did, because like most every other remaining piece of undeveloped land in the QC, as we look ahead, it is only a matter of time before it will be no more.

Holiday Gems

Do you shop Charm & Chain?  Here are a sample of my favorite holiday gems all at 30% off through Sunday. Good luck turning away!

Give The Gift Of Style

Looking for that perfect holiday outfit, but don't have anything to wear?  Or perhaps you simply don't have the time to shop. Whatever your wardrobe woes this holiday season, I'd love to be your help.  We'll have you looking better than the rest, and most importantly, absolutely feeling your best.  I am offering a three hour wardrobe consultation for $175 (regularly $225).  This holiday season treat yourself, your daughter, son, sister or spouse to something totally awesome and fun.  As we all know, confidence never goes out of style!  

Meeting Betsey Johnson

A big, huge thanks to Belk for including me in a private meet and greet with American fashion designer icon Betsey Johnson.  I've loved and worn Betsey's designs for years.  Known for her whimsical designs often considered over the top, I adore Betsey's ingenuity and joyful spirit. Three of my wedding party dresses were Betsey Johnson designs, all from Belk Southpark.. who knew?!  The day of the event was a typically frigid November one.  My satin plunging sweetheart neckline frock was the most temperature appropriate fabric, though still the furthest thing from warm.  That did not stop me from finding a way to wear it, and I'm so glad I did, because Betsey got very excited.  She spotted her "vintage" design immediately, and just as she did with everyone else she posed, she threw her arms around my neck in precious glee. If I had to narrow her (little) known attributes down to just two, aside from her effervescent splendor, it would be she still busts out a cartwheel like few 72 year olds can do, and I just read that she graduated from college Phi Beta Kappa.  Cool as sh&t and smart as a whip. Betsey Forever!

Clever Clutch

This post is precipitated by that lovely little lad in the far left bottom corner.  I saw the lucite blox clutch (by Rafe New York) with it's tortoise and marble pattern swirling right off the pages of my InStyle Magazine, and it had to be mine.  Then, I got to wondering, how many other stellar box clutches are out there just waiting to be had.  Turns out there a right many. The only determination will be which one will you be carrying with your LBD this holiday season and to forever and eternity?  Shop below a few that caught my eye.

LIKEtoKNOW:IT

For those of you who follow me on Instagram, you may already know about it, but I want to introduce you to an exciting website called LIKEtoKNOW.it. Just in case you aren't already familiar, LIKEtoKNOW.it is a fantastic and convenient way that you can easily shop my Instagram photos (along with all of your other favorite bloggers). Once you sign up on LIKEtoKNOW.it with your e-mail, whenever you like one of my photos tagged with @liketkit you will receive an e-mail detailing my outfit or design collage for that photo! My favorite part about the service is that you can choose to receive e-mails ASAP, daily, or monthly and then conveniently shop right from your inbox. It’s that simple! It is the best way to simply like a photo and get the details you want as opposed to commenting and getting lost in the sea of others asking the same thing. It’s always nice to have quick access to easy information, so I hope that you enjoy using  LIKEtoKNOW.it as much as I do!  Happy Shopping!

Altuzarra For Target

Target is back with their most recent high fashion collaboration.  This time it's with Joseph Altuzarra. Blending French sophistication with American ease, the designer aims to "instill a feeling of power, confidence and beauty in women everywhere."  The line features Altuzarra's signature sleek tailoring, feminine dresses, shoes and belts.  Sure it's about the clothes, but I think one of the most attractive elements of this campaign is choosing Czech model and actress Eva Herzigova for the face of the collaborative line.  You may shop the entire line on both Target's website or via one of my favorite on line shopping sites, NET A PORTER.  I think the latter's styling does wonders in marketing the line.  Shop a few of my favorites here... 

Stroll

Shirt: Gap. Shorts: J.Crew. Shoes: Cole Haan, similar here and here. Bracelets: Jook and Nona and thanks to Blydesign. Ring: Melinda Maria.

Burning Torch

Dress: Burning Torch (here's one) from Our Place. 

Are you familiar with the line Burning Torch?  If you like Free People and Lucky Brand, you need to check out Burning Torch.  Donna took me to the most beautiful field of sunflowers, a true hidden gem, located in York County just beyond Rock Hill and near Historic Brattonsville.  Sadly, bloom season is now over, but if you would like to visit next summer, this is how you get there. With more than 10 miles of trails and two stocked fishing ponds, this little spot is a wonderful place to sneak away any time of the year.  Happy Friday y'all!

While We're On The Topic of Tory Burch...

In case you missed my post discussing American designer Tory Burch and her collaboration with Bank of America, Elizabeth Street Capital, an initiative designed to support women entrepreneurs with capital and mentoring opportunities, you may read that review here.  The evening was nothing short of awe-inspiring.  And so while we are on the topic of Tory Burch, I thought it to be only be apropos in sharing a handful of my favorite designs from her summer and fall collections, some of which are currently on sale.  Check 'em out here...

Oh, and just in case you were wondering...

Head To Toe, Hold The Middle

My mother-in-law wore this outfit for her first date with my father-in-law at a pool party in August of 1971.  As you can image, with her long legs, barely there midi and the cutest smile under the sun, for my father-in-law, the rest was history!  Knowing my obsession with one of a kind fashion, Mary pulled this precious two piece out for me several years ago.  I've worn it a couple of times, and it really does make the most fun pool party outfit I could imagine wearing.  In all honesty, it is this photo shoot that lit the fire under me to get cranking on the abs.  Breeze is da bomb! More to come there. In the meantime, I've pulled a few matching crop top and bottoms for your next pool party.  Ladies, trust me on this one...

Zumba Fashion Is Perfect For The Streets

Cute Cousin Holly is back today with another round of Zumba fashion!  This time Holly is talking about the versatility of her Zumba brand work out gear.  I'm not sure about other Moms on the go, but when I am wearing my Mommy hat, it is straight up comfort or bust.  I dress for the occasion, and when I am with my boys, I've got to be able to move and move fast. That said, I'm always looking for cute work out gear to wear on the job.  Today I am totally taking a cue from Cousin Holly.  Take it away Holly!

Take a look at these hot new items from Zumba, and you will see why I love the line of clothes as much as I do.  The Sew Unusual Shoulder Slash Tee is a stylish top that I threw on with my jeans. You can take this top from the studio straight to the streets!  I love the wild print, my shoulders peeking out, and the drawstring at the waist makes it even more flattering.  The blue and pink Zumba Impact Max shoes are some of the cutest I have ever seen. I love the color options available.  They give tons of support and feel great.  I wear these even when I'm not teaching.  And, who can't use a good lightweight zip up hoodie?  I love to have a jacket to throw on over my tops in the morning when it is cool or after my night classes. The pink and purple Ziptastic zip up hoodie is made of the softest fabric and looks great with tons of my other outfits.  The feather print Lift Me Up Long Leggings are to die for!  This print is so fun and different. Every time I wear them I am asked where I got them.  I TOTALLY rock these while I am out running my errands or picking my kids up at school.  A big benefit of these leggings is the  Z-Dri™ technology...they keep you nice and cool while teaching and don't show sweat! 

The So Shaded Capri Leggings are the best!  I love the zipper on the bottom of the legs,  as well as the faded grey to black pattern. Pair these with a black tee, and you're ready to meet your friends for lunch. I love a comfortable sweatshirt you can wear with anything, and one of my favorites is the Boat Neck Sweatshirt.  It can be worn super casual or dressed up, paired with a cute skirt and fun gold earrings. The inside is so soft.  I think I might live in this in the fall and winter.  This is why Zumba clothes are so amazing!  Most everything can be worn from the class to the street and not feel like you are in your work-out clothes.  As an on the go Mom of two small children, I wear my Zumba gear pretty much all weekend long.  You can't beat style and comfort!

Keep it rocking!  Holly

Find Your Own Sexy This Mother's Day

                                       Pajamas: the cat's pajamas c/o I.C. London.  Hair: c/o BLo ouT                                           (Pay no mind to the styling of Precious Peanuts' jammies.  Hand me downs and comfort are king for my wild ones).  

The word sexy offers a lot of room for interpretation, and we know it doesn't mean the same thing for everyone.  What is sexy, however, is loving yourself and your body and embracing your sexuality.  When it comes to sleepwear, this may mean pin-up style lingerie for some or a cotton pajama set for others. Whatever it is, if you feel confident wearing it, that is what matters most. That is Finding Your Own Sexy.

Mother's Day is this Sunday, just right around the corner.  Donna and I had such a great time working on this sweet collaboration with Charlotte lingerie boutique, I.C. London. For over 20 years I.C. London has been dressing the Queen City with the very best in sleepwear, loungewear and lingerie.  I.C. London is known for offering the widest selection of sizes in sleepwear, ranging from XS all the way up to 3XL and offers an equally expansive selection in bra sizes. From cotton lounging pajamas to sexy baby dolls, boy shorts and camisoles, I.C. London has the perfect Mother's Day gift for the mom in your life.  If you're not completely sure what to buy, I.C. London is offering the value of $10 off every $50 Gift Card you purchase.  This way mom can get exactly what she wants.  We all know when mama's happy...!!