Style Night Out; The Runway

This post is chocked full of runway looks from Style Night Out.  Everything was fabulous; the clothes, the models, hair, make up, people watching (oh yea), the friendly, happy vibe.  I've said this before, but my favorite thing about fashion is that there is so much room for interpretation.  I think you will see that in the images included.  Below is a list of the boutiques who participated, as well as a few personal notations.  Sadly, I have not included looks from every boutique either because of chatter, bad photography or the likes. I had an early morning to follow, so I left after my friend Cigi Guz (V.Vill) presented her line. I am unable to assign every look to a boutique, so if there is something you see here and you want to know where you may purchase it for yourself, let me know, and I will find out for you.  Enjoy the eye candy!

Capital L.O.V.E this look, and she wears it so well.  

Would love to have those pants if anyone out there with power is reading! 

A fellow fashion blogger, Blair Eadie, recently wore the below dress and knocked it out of the park. I was very excited when Our Place Boutique showed it here on our Queen City runway!

I'm feeling a Rachel Zoe kind of moment with this next look.

Love the ingenuity of this...

Then along came these nice little diversions...

Excellent display of class and sophistication...

Love these (again!) if the powers that be are out there reading, and they are size 9...

She is FAB-U-LOUS...

I love seeing a little relaxation when it comes to those fashion 'rules'.

Wear what makes you happy, when it makes you happy...

Trending uniform, studs and gold all in one...

I did not photograph the lingerie, but here's a daring swim look...

One of my favorite looks of the night...

And here's my other fav.  I'd wear this entire look in a skinny second.  

This skirt was made from a tablecloth... YES, yes, yes.

I would love to hear which looks are your favorites!

Hope you enjoyed this Style Night Out recap in pictures,

Whitley

Style Night Out; The Scene

I'll be sharing pics from Style Night Out in two installments. This post consists of the photos I took prior to and during the event.  The night was knee deep with excited party-goers; everyone putting their best personal style on display.  I'll start with the above photo of me with the adorable, fun, spunky and sweet Melissa Hess who served as co-host for Style Night Out. Melissa is a fellow Queen City blogger and talented photographer.  I am in awe that she takes all of her own pictures. Enjoy the scenery!

It was great to see the lovely Meghan Browne who came out to showcase her jewelry line, Meghan Browne Style.  Meghan offers a full line of classic, yet on trend, affordable pieces in her collection. Check them all out here.  I also enjoyed meeting Beverly Sokoll, North Carolina Merchandise Manager for The RealReal, an on-line luxury designer consignment site. So excited to learn more!

Shital Vaghasiya, owner of Lipp Boutique, striking as ever...

Here I am with Bryan Paschal, founder of Paschal Promotions.  I have known Bryan since I moved to Charlotte when our paths crossed over business.  Until a Style Night Out media event, I had not seen him in years.  What a pleasant surprise it was to bump into an old friend after so long!

I was so excited to finally meet fellow Queen City City blogger, Michele Jones of Pinque Blog, two weeks ago at the LuckyFABB conference.  We got to spend time together again at Style Night Out!

The night's dynamic hosting duo; fashion editor and stylist Joey Hewell, and Melissa Hess.

Lots of flavor for the feet...

One of the sweetest, most fun and hard working women in the biz, Amy Pickard, owner of Charlotte's Men's Upscale Consignment Boutique, Revolve...

Everyone knows my love for one of a kind fashion.  If you haven't already heard me say it, go to summerbird on East Blvd and see my sweet friend Cindy Siesel, in the middle, pictured here with her sister and Mom... triplets!  I will say it again.  Go to summerbird, and tell Cindy I sent you!

summerbird's Mom!  I could not stand it.  Cindy's mother's unique sense of style and all around fabulousness had me feeling super nostalgic over my Grandmother.  She gracefully tossed her arms in the air, and they floated down and landed on her hips like this.  I could not get enough of her wonderful spirit and charm.

See what I mean?  Cannot get enough.

Lady of the night, Effie Loukas, makes her entrance.  She was all smiles and looked so pretty.

Effie, Joey and Melissa with WSOC news anchor, Natalie Pasquarella.  Such a fun bunch!

Toward the end of the night with emerging designer, Cigi Guz. (Thanks for my dress!)  True love.

Cute ladies from across the catwalk having so much fun...

Lotus boutique owner, Jackie Rodney (in white), along with some of her stylish, fun friends!

And, lastly, a photo opp with the lady of the night!  Such a sweet soul this gal is.  I was so flattered to be included in a Style Night Out full of fashion and fun. I hope you enjoyed all the great people watching!  I'll be back tomorrow with some fabulous runway fashion.

Thanks so much for being here!  Whitley

Neiman Marcus Fall Preview and What I Wore

Dress: BCBG Max Azria Runway (old) from Luna. Jacket: Banana Republic. Belt: Pink & Blue. Shoes: Steve Madden. Sunglasses: Blinde, here's a pair. Necklace: Belonged to my Grandmother-in-Law. Bracelets: Gift, vintage. Rings: Melinda Maria, Tiffany, Diamonds Direct.

I recently attended the Neiman Marcus at South Park Fall 2012 Preview event to learn about many fabulous things they have in store for the fall season.  From beauty brands to fall fashion and accessories, despite falling temps, it's all hot.  Admittedly, I have a lot to learn when it comes to make up and beauty products, but I was so impressed by the featured brands and their products, I found myself yearning to take better care of my skin and immediately wanting to get to work on my personal beauty presentation.  Brands shared with us included:

• Amore Pacific
• Bobbi Brown
• Chantecaille 
• Clinique
• Dior
• Estee Lauder 
• Sisley 
• Veneffect 

The morning proceeded with a fall fashion and accessories trend report which spoke to every cell in my body:

• Mixed Greens: Alone or in a combination, it's all about green to spruce your wardrobe.
• The Jacket: Lots of great coats and jackets from which to choose!
• The Smoking Slipper: The luxury loafer is the most flat out chic trend of the season.
• The Leather Leg: Second-skin tight or a little more loose fitting, leather (and waxed denim!) is everywhere this season.
• Navy: I am loving this hot color paired with brights and, yes, black!
• The Statement Handbag: Lots of shapes and sizes from which to choose... all luxurious.
• Borrowed From The Boys: Nothing Coco ever did was wrong.  Many have watched and learned.  Menswear influences for her, also known as the Androgynous look, is back. 
• Digital Prints: Modern and chic.  Layer it on and layer it all over; give me pattern!
• Brooches: The hottest accessory of the season; be it one alone or in a cluster.  Love.
• The Fall Face:  Bright red cherry lips.  Nudes are out, brights are now!

If you are in the Queen City, hop on over for a visit, and tell them the Queen City Style sent ya!

As ever, thank you, thank you, thank you for reading! xx-Whitley

Style Night Out; What I Wore And...

We are heading into Fall, and it is still low 80's and sunny here in the Queen City.  I knew there would be an assortment of trending fall fashion at this event; lots of black, leather, peplums, studs and lace.  I love it all, but my worst fashion nightmare is looking the same as everybody else.  My friend and emerging designer, Cigi Guz, recently kindly gave this dress to me. I knew the clock was ticking on being able to wear it this year, so with my trusty denim jacket, I decided to non-apologetically break all the seasonal fashion rules.  I always say when it comes to fashion and style, wear what makes you feel good, so that is what I did.  Thanks to Cigi Guz for the beautiful dress and to BLo ouT for making me feel pretty with the perfect up do.

Dress: ASOS (old) from Cigi Guz. Jacket: Gap. Shoes: Steve Madden. Sunglasses: Blinde, but here's a less expensive pair. Earrings: Bauble Bar. Bracelets: Vintage. Rings: My Grandmother's, Tiffany and custom by Diamonds Direct. Hair: BLo ouT.

I've had the awesome experience of attending various fashion events and runway shows in NYC, be it for Fashion Week or some other unique experience, but Thursday, September 13th marked my first ever Style Night Out in Charlotte.  Actually, it marked my first experience with any major style event in Charlotte.  My previous line of work never really gave me a reason to attend such an event. I love style and I love fashion, so why in the world wouldn't I?  I will never forget being six weeks away from delivering Precious Peanut #2 and feeling much anxiety about managing everything effectively.  I ultimately made the decision to take a step back from my business, focus on family and let things fall into place as they may while hoping for the best.  It was a tough transition at first, then the Lucky story happened, which led me to the Queen City Style, which 9 months later has led me to here.  I am pursuing my passion, and I cannot put it down.  I've said from the beginning if I get nothing more out of this than pure joy, I will have achieved my goal.  My soul is so full, and I am skipping with every step.  I've never had more faith that when one door closes another opens.  This is that door.  I just want to say thank you very much for reading and keeping me so hungry for more!

Have a wonderful weekend!  Whitley

Style Night Out in the Queen City!!

I've just returned from NYC for two fashion blogger conferences, and I can't wait to share it all with you, but before I do I want to talk to you about Style Night Out taking place this Thursday night in the Queen City.

Style Night Out is produced by the lovely Effie Loukas, owner of Lotus Boutique.

Prepare to be blown away by a bevvy of style and talent procured by over 50 boutiques, salons and makeup artists and 130 models showcasing their finest du joir on the runway. This is one night of style you do not want to miss!  The main event takes place at Morrison Shopping Center Thursday night, September 13th, 6-10pm. I am particularly thrilled to be collaborating with one of my favorite boutiques in the world, summerbird, by way of putting my hands on the four fabulous looks being sent down the runway.  Eeek!  Very excited.

Then there's this one other gal I've been telling you about as of late.  

Remember this vintage beaded jacket?

And this totally Bad A beaded vest? 

They're by way of uber chic emerging designer Cigi Guz. 

She and her fabulous garb will be there too.

Here's how to get your tickets.  

PS--I don't have the slightest what I'm wearing.  Thoughts/Ideas/Recs?

 Maybe this guy has an opinion...

Hope to see you there!!  Whitley

Motorcycles, Mac's and Mojo

I've been sitting on this post for about two months, waiting for what felt like the right moment to hit the publish button. Yesterday's post was laced in all white conservationism and sophistication, so I felt now was that perfect moment.  In full Motorcycle Mama meets Sandy from Grease character at the one and only Mac's Speed Shop, I broke out my inner wild and racy for some fun and care free.  It's been kind of a rough several months (or year) for me, even mixed in with the abundant good.  Over that course of time, I've fallen off my bike, and I am still working to get back on it.  Let me tell you though, there is nothing like a pair of skin tight black pants and a bad ass bike to help you get your mojo back.  Like playing a part in a movie, this was certainly my most fun character to date.

Vegan Leather Jacket: Forever 21, here's one at a great price. Leggings: Milena (old), from Lipp Boutique, but I want both these and these! Shoes: Nine West. Sunglasses: Blinde, but here's a less expensive pair. Bag: Chanel, here's one. Earrings: Luv Aj. Necklace: Stella & Dot. Bracelets: Stella & Dot, J. Crew, My Grandmother's. Cuff: from Henri Bendel. Rings: Melinda Maria, Tiffany and custom by Diamonds Direct. Bike: Harley-Davidson Dyna Super Glide Custom from Pat Rogers Harley-Davidson in Concord, NC.

I've always wanted to do this.  Thanks Regina.  You and your helmet are super hot! 

Thanks for the fun Snoopy.  I hope to 'ride' again soon!

For the love of channeling your inner care free self, always in style....

As ever, thanks so much for reading!!  Whitley

Runner Fashion Round Up And A Giveaway

Hello Friends!  I hope you have enjoyed the runner fashion series collaborating with Queen City running store, Run For Your Life.  It's a bit of a diversion from the standard fashion post, but I like to exercise, and I like to shake things up a bit, so it just made sense.  On to the fun part....

It's GIVEAWAY TIME!

As a recap, below are the four runner fashion looks, as well as my street style interpretation of the outfit.

Here are the ways you may enter to win:

1) Mandatory Entry - Follow the Queen City Style by Email, Bloglovin' or Google Friend Connect.

2) Mandatory Entry - "Like" Run For Your Life onFacebook.

Additional Entries:

3) "Like" the Queen City Style on Facebook.

4) Share this giveaway.

5) Tell me which runner outfit or which outfit interpretation you like most.

Please indicate in the comment form below each of the ways you have entered.  It's easiest to list 1,2,3 etc. Last thing, if you can't wait to see if you're the winner, you may still save 15% off all apparel (men AND women) at Run For Your life when you mention the Queen City Style!  

Giveaway ends Tuesday, August 14 and the winner announced Thursday, August 16!

Good luck, and thanks for participating!

For the love of running and winning...

Love, Style and Peace, Whitley

And the winner is....

Liz Cogswell

August 13, 2012 10:39 AM

I entered via 1, 2, 3, and 5 - my favorite outfit is #1. Thanks!

Thanks so much, everyone, for entering! Liz, please email me within 48 hours at thequeencitystyle@yahoo.com to claim your prize!  If you did not win, you can still take advantage of the 15% discount at Run For Your Life through the remainder of the week when you mention the Queen City Style.

I hope you all have a wonderful day!!  xx-Whitley

Interpreting Yesterday's Runner Fashion Outfit

Hello!  Today's outfit is my street style interpretation of the last of four runner fashion outfits from Run For Your Life.  This outfit is not a dead-on interpretation of the colors in the runner fashion outfit, but it is the closest I had to pull from in my closet.  I preach to use what you got, so dare I be hypocritical for the sake of an outfit post!  Very little was used for this simple ensemble.  A little vintage Lilly, my favorite ribbed tank from Gap and all the usual suspect accessories.  I revisited the scene of my beloved old neighborhood for this post, Dilworth, which always feels right at home.

Skirt: Lilly Pulitzer (belonged to my Grandmother), last seen here, here's a current skirt I love. Tank: Gap. Shoes: fibi & clo. Clutch: Coach (old), here's my current fav. Sunglasses: Blinde, here's a less expensive pair. Earrings: (old), but here's a pair I love. Bracelets: My Grandmother's and Stella & Dot. Rings: Tiffany and Custom by Diamonds Direct.

For the love of interpreting in fun style,

Have a wonderful day!!  Whitley

Runner Fashion: Check Shorts & Sexy Back Tank

Hello Everyone!!  Today's runner fashion outfit is the last of four showcasing Charlotte running store, Run For Your Life.  I've so much enjoyed my running and shopping experiences with the store that I couldn't resist approaching them about this fun collaboration.  Two things occurred to me.  There is definitely such a thing as runner fashion, and most of us who get into fashion want to look our best wearing it!  Chances are there is some kind of exercise involved, unless you're just naturally gifted.  I, for one, have some room for improvement in the exercise/runner fashion department, and writing this series has given me some great inspiration to break away from the free poly tech racing tee's!  I hope you've been inspired too!  

Tank: Adidas, c/o Run For Your Life. Shorts: Adidas, c/o Run For Your Life, or similar.

Shoes: Mizuno. Sport Watch: Garmin. Sunglasses: Native. Earrings: JoJo Loves You.

.

Stay tuned to tomorrow's fashion interpretation of this running outfit, and then it's giveaway time!!  Don't forget to take advantage of Run For Your Life's 15% discount on all apparel when you mention this post!

For the love of runnin' in great style,

Thanks for reading!! Whitley

Ready To Style, Consign and Shop!

This post is primarily dedicated to my friends of the Queen City, but I am super excited to share with everyone a little itty bit that applies to the Queen City Style. Green Jeans, the consignment sale of the century, is back!  This weekend, August 3-5, is the weekend for shopping fun! 

To help kick off the big sale, I am one of three Charlotte fashion lovers who will be scoping the sale's massive inventory to style it out with three shoppers.  I will have one hour to create an ensemble under $100 with my model and partner in crime. Shoppers, there are over 20,000 items in this sale, including designer demin and bags, costume jewelry and accessories, dresses and more.  Green Jeans' fans will judge and decide whose style is their most fav.  The model with the most outfit votes will get to keep her fabulous garb.  If my outfit is the chosen winner, I will get to donate $100 to the charity of my choice, YWCA Central Carolinas.  The competition is fierce, but I say, bring it on!  In all seriousness, I am so delighted to be a part of this fun event.  I can't wait to shop the event, myself, and if you are interested in consigning, there is still time.  If you read the Queen City Style regularly, you know I am an advocate of usin' what you got!  There is no need to break the bank in order to look and feel good.  Below are some examples from my own closet.  I am so excited put my hands on the racks at Green Jeans!  Wish me luck!!  Click HERE for info.

For the love of stylin' and consignin',

Hope to see you at the sale!  Whitley

Runner Fashion: Skirt, Ruched Tank, Wrap Top

Hello!  I hope everyone had a wonderful weekend!  I went to Charleston, SC for a little getaway and had a full weekend of quality time with some old friends.  It was gorgeous and sunny, albeit a bit hot, but a fulfilling diversion from life on the homestead.

Tank: Moving Comfort, c/o Run For Your Life. Skirt: RunningSkirts, c/o Run For Your Life. Wrap Top: Saucony, c/o Run For Your Life. Shoes: Mizuno. Sunglasses: Native. Sport Watch: Garmin. Earrings: JoJo Loves You

Today I am sporting my third of four runner fashion looks in my collaboration with Run For Your Life.  I was intentional in picking four looks that were completely unique from one another.  First I wore the black running dress, then I got a sporty with tight running shorts and a tank, and today I'm wearing a pretty skirt and ruched tank topped off with a comfy wrap.  Certainly not exclusive to, but I think this is a perfect style for moms on the go.  It is cute enough to wear all day--first and foremost for exercise, but also great for preschool pick-ups, errands and play time.  Comfortable, functional and cute.  I think we all feel good when we look good.  This runner outfit allows you to put your best foot forward in your gear!  What do you think?   Want this outfit for yourself?  

Head to Run For Your Life and mention the Queen City Style for 15% off any purchase on apparel.

Oh, and here's a sneak peak at tomorrow's fashion interpretation!

For the love of running around, in great style...

Have a wonderful day!!  Whitley

Runner Fashion: Tight Shorts and Tank

I hope everyone had a wonderful weekend! Today I resume my collaboration with Run For Your Life by styling my second of four picks showcasing women's runner fashion.  I wore a black running dress last week, and today I'm taking things in a slightly different direction with these tight shorts and tank.  As per one of my training partners, I'll admit, in the past I have fallen victim to cotton.  I do love the fabric of our lives, but running in the dead middle of the summer's heat is not the time or place.  Thanks to this collaboration, I'm thrilled to know there is some super stylish running attire out there just waiting to be worn!

Tank: Saucony, c/o Run For Your Life. Shorts: Saucony, c.o Run For Your Life, also in plain black. Shoes: Mizuno. Sport Watch: Garmin. Sunglasses: Native. Earrings: JoJo Loves You.

Of all the runner outfits I will be styling here, this one definitely reminds me most of what all those marathon record holding female runners wear on the cover of the magazines.  I could not bring myself to wear an athletic sports bra that shows the midriff, but if you are as ripped as those ladies are, go for it!

If you are in the Queen City and would like this runner outfit for yourself, head on over to Run For Your Life!  

Mention this post for 15% off your purchase!! See you at the $100 Gift Card Giveaway!

One more thing... Please nominate Run For Your Life as One of the 50 Best stores in America!

Here's a peak at tomorrow's street style interpretation of this runner fashion outfit!

For the love of running in great style...

Thanks for reading!  Whitley

Charlotte Web Award Nomination

I am proud to share that the Queen City Style has been nominated as one of 10 blogs in the category of Best Personal Blog for the Charlotte Web Awards.  What a pleasant surprise it was to open my email and read the news of this nomination.  A very warm thanks to all of you for reading the Queen City Style and the to responsible party for submitting my nomination.  I am beyond flattered by this vote of confidence.

Here's where I could use your help!  If you would like to vote, please click on the image below before July 23rd, and then click on the "Like" Button in the bottom left hand corner to vote for the Queen City Style.

THANK YOU from the bottom of my heart for your readership and support of the Queen City Style!

I am excited every day to share my passion with you!

For the love of great friends, always in great style--Whitley

Fun Fashion with the IT List!

Hello Everyone!  Today I am participating in the IT list, a fun fashion initiative designed to introduce awesome style to our readers by way of other uber stylish fashion bloggers. This will be my first of four times participating, and I am so exciting to be included in such a fun group of stylish ladies.  I was tickled when I found out, my black running dress post was the one chosen for the feature!  Do you see your style reflected in any of the images here?  I hope you will check them all out!

• Rachel's Look Book is showing us some European flair by recreating outfits she saw while across the pond! A must see! (find Rachel's Look Book on Twitter!)
• Crazy Style Love is in full-on "ladies who lunch" mode with a pretty pastel look. Monochromatic at its best! (find Crazy Style Love on Twitter!)
• 100 Inspirations recreates a casual Jessica Alba look complete with mint jeans and pink loafers. Head over to find out where to get the goods - all for under $140!
• High Heeled Style is having a polka party with her fun top! Paired with green accents and a pencil skirt, it makes for an office look that is sure to stand out! (find High Heeled Style on Twitter!)
• Ash 'N' Fashn loves the classic combination of red and blue together long after Independence Day! Head over to see how she pairs blue with a little red dress! (find Ash N' Fashn on Twitter!) 
• Pink Margarita Pearl remind us how important accessories are to our look! Pop over to see how she turned an all black outfit into something special with a few key pieces!
• Urban Frill goes red-hot while pairing a long, flowy vest with her usual work attire for an unexpected twist to business causal! So cute! (find Urban Frill on Twitter!)
• Here & Now is sporting a little drop-hem number that is reminiscent of the 20s. A seriously sassy look for date night! (find Here & Now on Twitter!)
• Fabulously Average shares with us her "Tall Girls Guide to the Mini." Head over to see how she puts her rules to use! (find Fabulously Average on Twitter!)
• Runaway Style is letting her shorts take center stage in this California cool look that is ready for any warm weather you can throw at it! Love those shorts!
• The Queen City Style has discovered something all you fashionistas need... a running dress! Yes, a running dress! Go check it out! (find The Queen City Style on Twitter!)
• Olive and an Arrow is channeling Jess from "New girl" with her adorable polka dot number! I'd say she wears it better than Zooey, what do you think?? (find Olive and an Arrow on Twitter!)
• Second Street East is letting her hair down with a geometric skirt and denim top - a fun look to brighten the day! (find Second Street East on Twitter!)
• Sweetie Pie Style looks ahead to cooler weather with Madewell's fall preview. Head over for tips on how to predict fashion trends for next season! (find Sweetie Pie Style on Twitter!)

the IT list is brought to you weekly by Jill of Good Life and edited by Michelle of Second St. East. For more information on how you can be involved - click here.

For the love of fabulous style, whatever your style...

Have a wonderful weekend!  Whitley

Runner Fashion: Black Running Dress

I'm so excited about my collaboration with Run For Your Life.  If you run in Charlotte, more likely than not, you are familiar with the store.  I have always purchased my running shoes from their store, possibly because of the close proximity to my home.  Or perhaps, it is because I worked with the company on races they helped facilitate and sponsor way back when I worked in not for profit.  It's fair to say the main reason I continued to buy my shoes there was because of their knowledge and expertise, but above all, for their excellent customer service.  In Run For Your Life's case, you get it all.  I was more eager than ever to get back into shape after Precious Peanut #2 was born, and after a tip from one of my husband's co-workers, I contacted the store about joining a training group.  On a personal note, it turned out to be one of the best things that's happened to me in a long time.  It was like being reunited with an old friend (running) and making some new friends in the process.  I have so much enjoyed my reunion with running and my connection with Run For Your Life that I reached out to them about collaborating for this series on runner fashion.  I mean, we all work so hard to not only look but feel good in our clothes.  Why not want the same while exercising?

Running Dress: Moving Comfort, c/o Run For Your Life. Under Shorts: Mizuno, c/o Run For Your Life. Shoes: Mizuno. Sunglasses: Native. Sports Watch: Garmin. Earrings: JoJo Loves You.

A running dress you say??  It's not something I've worn before, but I REALLY like this dress!  It's easy to move in, and it's comfortable.  Not to mention it would be perfect for tennis or even golf!  I kinda feel like it's time to set a new trend.  Do any of you own a running dress?  

Here's a peak at tomorrow's fashion interpretation of the running dress!

For the love of running in comfort and style, thanks for reading! Whitley

(Credits are listed for all items.  However, if you live in the Queen City, please call or visit your local Run For Your Life store for inquiries about anything you see worn here!)  

Run For Your Life Runner Fashion and a KK Bloom Gift Card Winner

Hi Everyone!

Just in case you weren't able to decipher yesterday's note (though I'm sure you were, because you are all so smart, creative and can read), here's another crack at it.

Got it?

Run For Your Life!

I'm sure you got it, and yes, I know I look terribly silly.  Anything to whip out the old cheer leading moves.  In case there is any question, that second pose is the number four.  I worked hard on this, so if anybody has a better body number four, bring it!  If you read the Queen City Style on a fairly regular basis, you know I enjoy running, so I am super excited about the upcoming post series.  I'll be collaborating with Run For Your Life to share with you four of my current favorite runner outfits.  Like the room to outfit interpretations, I could not hold back on an opportunity to get creative, so I'll be interpreting each runner outfit with an ensemble using only items from my closet.  To make this all the more fun, there will be a giveaway at the end!  

One lucky reader will be the winner of a $100 gift card to use on your favorite running outfit, a pair of shoes or whatever you'd like at Run For Your Life!

 Can't wait to see if you're the winner?  

Run For Your Life is offering a 15% discount to anyone who mentions the Queen City Style with your purchase.  I hope you enjoy, and of course, I can't wait to hear which outfit is your favorite! Click here to see if you were the winner of the KK Bloom $50 Gift Card Giveaway.

For the love of exercising in great style, thanks so much for reading!

Whitley

Just This One Thing

Happy Weekend Everyone!!

I've got just this one thing to say...

Run For Your Life

Have a healthy, active and fun weekend!  I'll see you Monday!

Whitley

Romper Ease

Yesterday I shared with you some cocktail party outfit ideas as an alternative to the little black dress.  As I mentioned, I've really been in to wearing shorts for an evening out on the town.  They are comfortable and cool in this 100+ degree weather we are experiencing here in the Queen City.  They are so versatile, because you can style them with different accents and accessories for so many unique looks!  Another thing I'm in love with right now is the romper.  Talk about easy.  There are so many fun options in both short and long lengths.  I think it is a playful alternative to wearing a dress.  I recently snatched this number from the 75% off sale rack at one of my favorite boutiques, KK Bloom, voted Charlotte's 2012 Best Boutique by Charlotte Magazine.  Using the scarf as a headband, pearl necklace and woven clutch, I've styled it in sophisticated manner below, but last week I wore it out for dinner, paired with tough metal accessories for a  much edgier look.  One other note of interest, I am SO excited to let you know KK Bloom will be offering a  $50 Gift Card Giveaway here on the Queen City Style!  Stay Tuned!!

Romper: Wink at KK Bloom. Shoes: Maria Sharapova by Cole Haan. Clutch: Coach (old), but here's one, or here. Pearl Necklace: J. Crew (old), but here's one I like. Pendant Necklace: An old ring belonging to Grandmother, turned into a necklace.  Earrings: Gift from a friend. Sunglasses: Blinde, here's a similar pair. Sash: Old Navy (old). Right Arm Bracelet: Custom Made by Clewis Reid. Left Arm Bracelets: Stella & Dot here and now on SALE here, J. Crew.  Right Hand Ring: Melinda Maria.  Left Hand: Tiffany and Custom by Diamonds Direct.

For the love of styling fun and free, hope you have a wonderful holiday!!

xo-Whitley

Vintage Lillie Rubin, Craft Beer and Burgers

Let me just start by saying this post has a few more pictures than I normally include.  I blame it on this new outfit for which I am completely obsessed, head over heels in love.  The dress and matching jacket, a recent Etsy find for me, are a rare maxi dress outfit collaboration by Lillie Rubin and Don Luis de Espana.  After wearing this dress that belonged to my mother, I set out on a mission to find more equally fabulous styles by the designer.  I've always adored that dress, but I think I am now at the stage of full blown unhealthily obsessed over Lillie Rubin design.  Two things I love just about more than anything when it comes to fashion are bright color and classic vintage design, and this outfit has it all.  If you share this same affinity with me, be sure to check out Diana's Etsy shop.  I was not familiar with Don Luis de Espana before now, but after a quick Google search, I found this little bit of info, this novelty print dress, and this awesome maxi dress.  Definitely now a Don fan.

For a quick night on the town, Father's Day style, most wonderful man in the world and I took it to NoDa for a some tasty craft brew.  First stop, one of our favs (co-owned by an super cool friend of mine), Birdsong Brewing Co.

Everybody loves large and in charge Jenga.

We then hopped over to NoDa Brewing Company for some more tasty.  Sorry I don't have any pictures.  Things were starting to get a little out of focus by now.  Thank goodness, however, for Auto Burger & Fry Guys.  I am not lying to you when I say I think I had the BEST vegetarian burger of my life straight from this... old milk truck?  

Like their Facebook page to see where you can try for yourself!

Vintage + Craft + Burger = Me all smiley happy.

Dress: Vintage Lillie Rubin, here's a hot print, Sunglasses: Blinde, but here's a similar pair, Shoes: Calvin Klein, Bag: JJ Winters from Lipp Boutique, Bangles: Henri Bendel, Red and Pink are Bakelite thanks to summerbird, Earrings: thanks to JoJo Loves You, Rings: Turquoise-my Grandmother's, Tiffany and Custom at Diamonds Direct.

Orange You Maxine?

I recently learned that the Queen City Style won this year's Charlotte Magazine Voters' Choice Award for Best Blog. I'm still not really quite sure how this happened, but I am super excited, stoked, grateful and on and on some more.

I also feel like the pressure is really on now. If you voted for the Queen City Style, thank you SO much! If you are reading this right now, thank you!! I can't tell you how much I appreciate you being here. I am looking forward to my first BOB Awards party this Thursday night.

If you are in the Queen City, you should come! Here's how to get your tickets.

To celebrate, most wonderful man in the world and I ventured up to the NC Music Factory for some good eats at Bask on Seaboard.

Chances are if you enjoy good live music, you've ventured to the NC Music Factory, but if by chance you have not, you really must. The location serves home to a vast assortment of excellent restaurants, hip new bars-whether it's brew ha ha or cocktails you're thirsting- and the Queen City's hottest spot for listening to live music.

Hangin' with my new friends, Brody & Choch, and crew. If old school hip hop with a smooth twist is your thing, have a listen.

Inside Bask on Seaboard.

Dress: BCBGeneration (old). I am absolutely DYING to have this one, so if you get it, may I pretty please borrow?! Two more Maxi's I'm loving: here and here, Elvis Belt: My Grandmothers Blazer: Banana Republic (old), here's one, Sunglasses: Borne Natural Born Thrillers from Doctor's Vision Center, here is a similar pair at a lower price, Scarf: H&M, here's one, Bag: JJ Winters, mine is from Lipp Boutique in the Queen City, Bracelets: My Grandmothers, J. Crew Crystal Rope Bracelet-select stores, Stella & Dot Nugget Wrap and Renegade Cluster Bracelets, Earrings (old), Rings: Custom by Diamonds Direct, My newest statement piece- Melinda Maria, Tiffany Interlocking Circles Ring For the love of feeling oh-so-grateful, and yes, stylish too...

Thank you again so much for reading.  I am so appreciative!

Whitley