Gift Guide For The Style Obsessed Coffee Table Book Collector

A few clients and friends have texted and emailed to ask if I'll be sharing my top Gift Guide picks for this holiday season. You ask and you shall receive.  SO.... here is my first of the season; Coffee Table Books For The Style Obsessed!  My own coffee tables, chairs, radiator box covers and side tables are piled high with them, so I thought I'd share a few of my favorites with you.  Since I'm equally in love with one of a kind fashion, emerald shiny interiors and impeccable manners, none of which ever go out of style, there's a little bit of all three here.  I hope you enjoy, and stay tuned for me in His, Hers, Wee Ones, Hostess Gifts and more!

Draper James, Honey Pie!

"In the South, you can never be too kind, too gracious or too well-dressed". I don't know about y'all, but I have always loved my fellow Southern gal, Reese Witherspoon. She's smart, talented, brainy and my favorite, you got it, absolutely to the manor born.  If you adore this sweet Southern Belle as much as I do, now you can purchase a piece of her southern hospitality and genuine way for yourself, your home or for a loved one.  Reese has created the Draper James line, named after her Grandmother and her Grandfather.  At Draper James, you'll find "the perfect dress so that you feel pretty always, stationery for every occasion, and all that you need to make your space feel like Home, Sweet, Home".  I could not help but love how these gentleman's handkerchiefs just happen to spell out my Alma mater.  Coincidental? And tell me this hat doesn't make you want to go to the Derby. Here's a look at my current favorites.  Just click on the image to shop 'til your heart's delight, y'all.

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!

Royal Tenenbaum

Photography: Ellie Lacey and on Instagram, Shoes: Thanks to Julie Lopez, Sunglasses: Love Obsessed, Earrings: from ChezElle. Ring: Melinda Maria.

I actually have not seen the movie The Royal Tenenbaums, but for some reason when I saw these dark and moody images Cousin Ellie took, immediately I thought of Gwyneth Paltrow's character in the movie.  Perhaps it is the fur and side barrette, or again, the dark patina of the images.  It was a fun opportunity to wear this blush and metallic vintage dress I love so much from Charlotte's Hong Kong Vintage and my Julie Lopez python pumps.

Don't Stop Til You Get Enough

Photography: Ellie Lacey and on Instagram.  Pants: ASOS. Blouse: Cynthia Rowley. Jacket: Vintage from summerbird. Shoes: Brian Atwood. Hat: Eugenia Kim. Square Ring: Melinda Maria. Cross Bracelet: Thanks to blydesign. Earrings: from ChezElle Boutique.

I call this one of my "train wreck" or "sh&t mess" outfits.  I love it.  I just keep going and going and going. Coco said take one off.  I put one on.  I love it so much I just can't stop.  Michael said it too.  Don't stop 'til you get enough.  On this day, I just could not get enough.

So Long, Farewell Piperlime

Ugh ugh ugh.  One of my favorite on line shopping sites, Piperlime, is closing their virtual doors. They also had a storefront in SoHo in Manhattan that, sadly, has closed doors too.  I went with Nic to their Grand Opening party.  It was so exciting to be able to step foot into the store that so quickly became one of my favorite on line destination go-to's for client shopping. Piperlime has masterfully carried (or at least I thought) a mix of everything from denim shorts to beaded sequin gowns in brands from 7 For All Mankind to Cynthia Rowley, at price points from $50 to $550.  Something for everyone.  Piperlime will close by the end of April, so get moving on the savings before the good stuff's all gone.  I've included a few of my current favorites here. 

Lace + Lace

Blouse: Vintage. Skirt: Thanks to The Boulevard at SouthEnd. Shoes: Cole Haan.  Purse: Chanel.  Earrings: Thanks to Chloe + Isabel by Ashlyn Milosch

More amazing photography by my very talented cousin Ellie.  Her eye from behind the lens is so hip and chic, and I love the hint of patina on her photographs.  It has just been very fun to spend this treasured time with family. This pink lace blouse is another piece I recently inherited from the sweet woman I have yet to meet and so badly want to.  (Read and see more here). I We spotted this fantastic old building and Airstream from across the highway while we were shooting Piles + Pipes.  I hope you have survived last week's rush of winter weather!

A New Peachy!

I am so excited for my feature in the newest edition of Peachy the Magazine!  These ladies are so talented in every way, and the material is... STYLE FOR DAYS!  There is a wonderful feature on my very sweet dear incredibly talented running pal Taylor. Check it out here!

Rick Lee Photography, Model: Amy Werho, Marilyns Model and Talent Management, Hair and Makeup by Deme Fourtounis, Featuring Julie Lopez Shoes.

Recap: East Boulevard Style Night

Photography: Ellie Lacey. Blouse: Andrew Gn. Skirt: Zara. Coat: Banana Republic (old). Shoes: thanks to J.Crew. Scarf: Vintage. Purse: Loeffler Randall. Ring: Melinda Maria. Necklaces: Stix + Stones

Such a fun night with fellow stylist, Julian Michael Clark at summerbird and Revolve, two of Charlotte's best for upscale consignment clothing.  It was a big 'ole party including vodka tastings of the magically delicious Three Hunters Vodka, noshing on yummy to the tummy chips, salsa and guac from Bakersfield, touch ups from Jeffre Scott and so much more. Earlier that day I received a fantastically fun surprise gift from J.Crew, these Roxie glossy leather pumps.  I couldn't not wear them, so like any excited girl with only 5 minutes to get ready would, I put them in front of me and started grabbing at whatever was right in front of me.  It was one of those I can't stop moments, as you can see.  After the party, I made a milk run in classic Carrie Bradshaw style.  Where else am I going to wear all of my beautiful things?!

Join Me For Style Night On East Blvd

I'm thrilled to be a part of a fun night of style, style and more style next Wednesday, February 18th.  Won't you please join me  for an evening of style hosted by one of my most favorite boutiques in town, summerbird, (think all things couture at the girl next door's price point) and the QC's leader in men's upscale consignment, Revolve Consignment.  Music will be playing, discounts will be discounting throughout both stores, fantastic art work and jewels will be on display, Three Hunters Vodka is hosting a special tasting, light bites provided for all, Jeffre Scott Apothecary will be on site to doll you up, and I will be styling the night away along with fellow stylist Julian Clark.  Oh, and who doesn't love a raffle giveaway?  Style, fun and more style.  And oh, did I say fun?  Grab a girl or guy friend, and come on!

Olivia Palermo + Charlotte Style Icons

This girl kills it. Every. Single. Time.  Olivia Palermo and your style, be still my beating heart.  Since my Grandmother, she may be the only one I have so admired. Honestly, at times, and I say this with total poise and confidence and without fear or hesitation (because I realize the bold nature of this statement), I truly feel she is one of the few I feel who gets it like I do.  Except for maybe Blair Eadie.  And, if you are here in Charlotte, Chezelle Boutique owner, Lauren. Girl is a trend setter.  The incomparable Alex Holleman and Interior Design one of a kind, Barrie Benson. None of this copy cat head to toe preppy prissy stuff.  Straight up original, craft, strength, talent.  

One thing I do want to point out is that money CAN buy you amazing garments that not only ARE but aldo look and feel rich.  We cannot all dress this way, but that does not mean it cannot be achieved.  I would like to think I am an example of this.  More on that later... Below are a few of Olivia's recent shots for Cosmopolitan Magazine. And, yes, I have already reached out to Zach to shoot me as close to this as possible.  I have an email into said person to borrow house for location, and I hope the stores will see it their worthwhile to lend me their most magnifique clothes and accouterments!

Kate Spade Surprise Sale!

Kate Spade is having a surprise sale.  If you know, you know I am a stickler for shopping at discount both for myself and for my clients, even if you don't have an immediate need. Doing so allows you to purchase higher quality items that will stand the test of time, but at a lesser cost.  I also love unique, one of a kind items that will allow you to stand out in a crowd.  Here is a link to the site, and below are a few of my top picks.  Just click on the image to shop the item. Feel free to share with all your peeps, and enjoy!  Hurry!  This sale only last two days!

Belk Spring Fashion Preview

I recently attended the Belk Spring Fashion Preview with Belk VP of Trend Merchandising, Arlene Goldstein.   According to Belk, Spring 2015 is going to be all about the "Modern Mashup"  As with each preview, Belk presented their take on the versatile yet striking trends for the season to come.

• Garden Party - I for one, can't imagine I'll ever tire of flowers used in fashion.  Belk presented this trend for Spring to include dreamy pales and mid-tones, a wardrobe of whites, florals and beautiful botanicals. Lace-like textiles, sheers, intricate appliques, embroideries, and crystal pleats. Flower-motifs and amazing accessories like colorful stone treatments, pearl variations and statement earrings.

• Sport Chic -Borrowed from the gym. Performance fabrics like jersey, double knits, nylon mesh and scuba complemented by innovative perfs, color blocking and contrast zippers. Athletic-inspired hoodies, bombers, halters and jog pants paired with more polished items. Stylish sneakers, new-age backpacks and totes.

Spare Me - Architectural forms like A-line, columns and trumpet skirts, along with tunics, over-sized shirts and trapeze dresses. Advanced shine, sheers, unexpected fabric mixes and coated surfaces. Bold stripes, artistic scribble, and grids. Bold cuffs, chokers, over-sized clutches, mini bags, and shoes with bottom interest.  You had me at "Unexpected"

• Islander -Pattern mixes, wraps, ties, tassels and fringe. Exotic details include beading and embroideries with eye-catching bright colors. Arm candy, big gold hoops, statement earrings, head wraps and strappy sandals with bold bottoms.

Be sure to also check out the Women's Most Wanted and Men's Most Wanted List!  Fellow stylist and my new friend Chelsie Ravenell styled the Men's Most Wanted List.  Check out his Instagram here.  So fly.

Even Paris Hilton Does Not Have This Closet

Pictures via Pink Peonies

If you are a fashion blog-o-sphere junkie, there is no way you've missed Rachel Parcell's uber popular blog, Pink Peonies.  Rach is the leading brunette beauty fashion blogger of all beautiful brunette fashion bloggers... with amazing clothes... for days.  And shoes. And bags. And so on and so forth.  But her closet is what I am drooling over most of all.  I mean have you ever seen anything more magnificent than putting your home office IN your closet surrounded by the beautiful things that inspire you most?  One day.  I will say, however, I've done quite an amazing job DIYing my way into an aspiring home office.  I mean, I have kelly green quilted artichokes dancing across my prized vintage sofa couch.  Paris NOR Rachel have that.  SO. There you have it.  OR, below, you really can have it. 

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.

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.  

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!  

Styling Mollie Bradford

From a styling standpoint, this is probably one of my favorites of all time.  It's no secret I love, love dichotomous fashion.  In this case, I mixed some of the most fantastic vintage garments I could find.  If you are in the Charlotte area, surely you've visited Sleepy Poet Antique Mall. Sequestered in the middle (only because everything is sequestered in this unfathomable shop within a shop warehouse) is Kitschy-Cool-Vintage.  From costume to everyday wear, you will find some of the most unique pieces at an accessible (thank you for turned me onto this word Emily Maynard) price.  Zach Alston captured model Mollie as a China Doll dream.

Killer Dresses Right Now

So yes, I have a thing for dresses. A  major thing, and I've had it since high school. I have been collecting cocktail dresses for longer than I remember.  Even if there was no occasion.  Literally, I have dresses with tags on them since high school.  As a wardrobe stylist, I would tell you to purge 'em... unless they are just works of are that are that cool.  OR unless you write a fashion blog and you think there might come a day you will use it if for no other reason than to play dress up and get your picture taken, acting like you didn't actually know you were having your picture taken, but you did.  Because you write a blog.  If you do, you know.  Look, I've been playing dress up since I plopped from my mother's womb, and I don't think I will ever stop.  Consider this an invitation to in-box me if you want to pop a cork on the bubbly, turn the tunes way up high and join the twirling fantasy.  The only question is: Which dress shall we wear when we do?