Beth Lee Art (My Mama!)

Y'all, I am really, really proud of my mama and her newly discovered talent to paint.  I thought it had only been about 18 months, but today she let me know it's been three years since she's kinda sorta put aside her golf addiction for her painting one.  However long it's been, I'm really, really proud of her and I am so impressed by every new piece she paints. For all you South Carolina beach-goers, many of Moms paintings are of various scenes captured around one of our family vacation spots, Pawleys Island. While Moms work largely reflects her time spent on the North Carolina and South Carolina coasts, her love of beaches knows no prejudice. Just in time for the holidays, I'm showcasing several of her works of art currently for sale.  If you are intersested in learning more, or would like to place a request for a commission, please email her directly at: willalee@bellsouth.net.

Beth Lee, My Mama!

Outer Banks Sunset, 24x30, $400

Oyster Catcher Inlet 23x37 $450 (framed)

Balancing Act, 22x28, $375

Dunes at Frying Pan Shoals, 15x30, $300

Path Through The Woods, 16x20, $200

Just Beyond, 16x20, $250

Beaufort, 18x24, $350

Beach Walk, 26.5x33, $500 (framed)

Forgotten Path, 16x20, $250

Dunes, 16x20, $300

Thanks so much for checking out Beth Lee Art!

I'll be back with a post on Saturday, so in the meantime, 

I hope you and your loved ones have a very Happy Thanksgiving!  

 Gobble, Gobble! -Whitley

I.C. London

Lingerie: Cosabella; Shoes, Slip and Sleep Mask (similar here), all c/o I.C. London. Photography: Moments by Donna, Hair and Makeup: Deme Fourtounis. 

After serving as a flagship fixture on East Boulevard for 20 years, the Queen City's lingerie go-to has moved to a newly renovated, open air space at The Village at SouthPark. To share the excitement, the store has extended a private 20% discount to all readers of the Queen City Style through Saturday, November 23. Just mention this post at check out. The holiday season is getting close.  Ladies, in all the hustle and bustle of holiday shopping and buying and doing for others, I am here to tell you there is no time like the present to buy something for yourself.  Go get yourself some high quality comfortable jammies.  Feel good about yourself and still be cozy.  I.C. London carries a range of products from underpinnings to sophisticated negligees to cotton cozies and bedroom slippers.  I hope you will treat yourself (or someone you love).

Happy pampering!

xo-Whitley

Chic Local Products For The Entire Family

This one's for ALL the readers; comfy everyday wear for you ladies, affordable premium denim for the ladies and gents, precious holiday designs for the kiddies, chic accessories and the best in athletic gear.  It's all here!  See it all in this month's article for Charlotte Parent Magazine.

Check 'em all out!

-Whitley

Let Your Hair Down

Dress: c/o Belk. Shoes: Stuart Weitzman. Hairpiece: JewelMint.Photography: By Tatyana M. Hair and Makeup: By Heather Cole. Stylist: Caroline Hamlin Byrnes of Belk.

I adore this short dress I wore for the second part of my shoot with the Young Affiliates of the Mint. More glam, of course, but Caroline styled a more casual look, which Heather completed by curling my hair into a sophisticated bob. I hope you'll join me in letting your hair down at the inaugural Fall Ball this Friday, November 8th, benefiting the Mint Museum.

Click here to get your tickets to the Fall Ball!

- Whitley

1920s Glamour, Revealed!

Dress: Adrianna Papell c/o Belk. Earrings: c/o Belk. Photography: Tatyana M. Hair and Makeup: Heather Cole. Stylist: Caroline Hamlin Byrnes of Belk.

And HERE it is, the dress--dripping with sequins and sparkle! In case you missed it, I revealed just a hint of it in this previous post here. This is part two of my collaboration with the Young Affiliates of the Mint, who are hosting the inaugural Fall Ball on November 8th with proceeds benefitting The Mint Museum. I love that the theme for this first year is 1920s Speakeasy, a revolutionary time for fashion. Come to the ball to dazzle (think fringed frocks, feathered headbands and utter extravagance), and be sure to look out for the rest of the promo shots on the YAM's Facebook and Twitter pages.

Click here to get your tickets to the Fall Ball!

- Whitley

New Everyday Favorite: La Senorita Jolie

Maxi Dress: Thanks to La Senorita Jolie. Jacket: Gap. Boots: Charlie 1 Horse by Lucchese. Purse: Vintage Coach. Rings: Melinda Maria (love this one) and custom by Diamonds Direct.

I absolutely love the art of creating stylish outfits, but it's not how I roll in my everyday life. If you follow me on Instagram or know me personally, you know I am wearing either running shoes or cowgirl boots paired with denim shorts or a denim jacket along with anything else comfortable. Enter my new favorite line of everyday wearable clothing, La Senorita Jolie.  

Providing wardobe staples like the Gabriella Maxi Dress I'm wearing here, La Senorita Jolie is a local endeavor that launched in 2013 by fellow Tar Heel, Jennifer Dixon.  All of the pieces are made of washable fabrics similar to what you will find in specialty boutiques at a much higher cost.  Hop on over to their on line store here, and be sure to use the code LSJ-QCS at check out to receive free shipping!  If you do see me across the produce aisle, I'll likely be wearing this top or this one.  Like butta.  You can thank me later.  Want to join the LSJ team?  Details here.

Happy Shopping!  

Whitley

P.S. How awesome are the photo bombers?

Get The Password

Dress: Adrianna Papell c/o Belk. Earrings: c/o Belk. Photography: Tatyana M. Hair and Makeup: Heather Cole. Stylist: Caroline Hamlin Byrnes of Belk.

The Young Affiliates of the Mint are gearing up to host their brand new Fall event, the inaugural Fall Ball on November 8th, with proceeds benefitting The Mint Museum. The theme for the event is 1920s speakeasy, and I couldn't have been more excited to participate with the photo shoot. I was totally blown away with the gorgeous hair style created by Heather Cole, and I got to wear this fabulous vintage-inspired black sequined gown from Belk. Want to attend?  You'll have to wait until next time to see the rest of this dress!  In the meantime, click here to get your password and tickets to the Fall Ball.

For the love of great style and art, Whitley

Get These Pants

Blazer, Corduroys, Shirt c/o Gap. Boots: Charlie 1 Horse by Lucchese. Sunglasses: Blinde, similar.

If you live in the Queen City, be sure to stop by GAP at Southpark Mall this Saturday, October 19, between 6pm-9pm to see how you can win your own pair of Gap Legging Jeans!

Thanks for reading!  Whitley

Fort Mill Magazine

If you follow me on Instagram or Facebook, you may have seen a few weeks ago the big news that my work as a wardrobe stylist made its first editorial cover. The news isn't completely fresh, but looking at these photos, I'm still so excited. Driving home to Asheville on a Friday to visit old friends, I got the call from one of the first photographers I ever worked with, Joseph Bradley, about a job that was to take place on that Sunday.  This meant I had to race back to Charlotte a few hours earlier than planned and put together seven looks in just a few hours.  A huge thank you to Joe for recommending me for the job and to Fort Mill Magazine publishers, Louis and Tracey Roman for taking a chance on me.  I had a wonderful time working with everyone on this set, and since it was shot at Fort Mill High School my Dad was there to cheer me on from the sidelines.  Such a fun experience all the way around, and I can't wait to collaborate with Fort Mill Magazine for the winter publication!  Be sure to check out the on line issue here for wardrobe credits, or please let me know if have any styling questions. I would love to hear from you!

Much love to all of you reading, Whitley

Green Jeans Love Plus

Blinde Eyewear, Charlotte, Donald J Pliner shoes, Donna Jernigan Photography, Green Jeans Consignment Sale, J.crew jeans, Merino's, NC furniture store, Southern Style Blog, the Queen City Style,

Blinde Eyewear, Charlotte, Donald J Pliner shoes, Donna Jernigan Photography, Green Jeans Consignment Sale, J.crew jeans, Merino's, NC furniture store, Southern Style Blog, the Queen City Style,

Blinde Eyewear, Charlotte, Donald J Pliner shoes, Donna Jernigan Photography, Green Jeans Consignment Sale, J.crew jeans, Merino's, NC furniture store, Southern Style Blog, the Queen City Style,

Blinde Eyewear, Charlotte, Donald J Pliner shoes, Donna Jernigan Photography, Green Jeans Consignment Sale, J.crew jeans, Merino's, NC furniture store, Southern Style Blog, the Queen City Style,

Blinde Eyewear, Charlotte, Donald J Pliner shoes, Donna Jernigan Photography, Green Jeans Consignment Sale, J.crew jeans, Merino's, NC furniture store, Southern Style Blog, the Queen City Style,

Blinde Eyewear, Charlotte, Donald J Pliner shoes, Donna Jernigan Photography, Green Jeans Consignment Sale, J.crew jeans, Merino's, NC furniture store, Southern Style Blog, the Queen City Style,

Blinde Eyewear, Charlotte, Donald J Pliner shoes, Donna Jernigan Photography, Green Jeans Consignment Sale, J.crew jeans, Merino's, NC furniture store, Southern Style Blog, the Queen City Style,

Blinde Eyewear, Charlotte, Donald J Pliner shoes, Donna Jernigan Photography, Green Jeans Consignment Sale, J.crew jeans, Merino's, NC furniture store, Southern Style Blog, the Queen City Style,

Blouse: Ralph Lauren. Jeans: c/o J. Crew. Shoes: Donald J. Pliner. Rings: Melinda Maria (new fav), Tiffany, custom by Diamonds Direct.

Y'all know how much I love a Green Jeans sale, and the Green Jeans Consignment Lake Norman sale starts THIS week!  For those of you living in the north part of the metropolis, please make note of the new location.  This year's sale will take place at Merinos Home Furnishings in downtown Mooresville.  This means you get a two-fer. Yep.  Shop for awesome designer duds at a discount price at the Queen City's largest consignment sale, and check out some killer home furnishings for every style of decor while you're at it.  Have any questions about the sale?  Check out all the info here.  

I hope to see you there!

-Whitley

Organizing a Closet of Personal Style

This is me...

And this is my closet*...

Organizing a Closet of Personal Style, the Queen City Style, Simplicity Organizers, closetlog, Janet Caponi, Charlotte Fashion Blog, Southern Style Blog, Joshua Galloway Photographer,

Organizing a Closet of Personal Style, the Queen City Style, Simplicity Organizers, closetlog, Janet Caponi, Charlotte Fashion Blog, Southern Style Blog, Joshua Galloway Photographer,

Organizing a Closet of Personal Style, the Queen City Style, Simplicity Organizers, closetlog, Janet Caponi, Charlotte Fashion Blog, Southern Style Blog, Joshua Galloway Photographer,

It's okay. I'm not ashamed to admit it, and this is just one of four closets that house my clothes.  I am not a hoarder by any means, though this closet might seem to indicate otherwise.  As part of my job as personal stylist, I purge closets with clients all the time.  You don't need a closet full of things you never wear. It is mind cluttering, overwhelming, annoying and wasteful. My personal wardrobe comes in handy often with my work as a wardrobe stylist, and I will never ever rid of any of my Grandmother's or Great Grandmother's clothes.  That doesn't mean I wouldn't love a beautiful, more  organized closet however... Oh, how I would!

I am really looking forward to the upcoming Lunch and Learn, Thursday, September 19, with Simplicity Organizers and Closet Log. Together we will share tips and strategies to help you create a closet of personal style. Simplicity Organizers will discuss how to organize the keepers and donate or consign the rest. I will next explain how to streamline your wardrobe in order to help determine your own personal style. Finally, we will unveil Closet Log, a new site that catalogs your wardrobe all from your PC or heldheld device! Whether your style is girly, glam, classic or fashion forward, or you are still working to figure it out, please join us. We will have a great time getting it all organized! Click HERE to register.

Organizing a Closet of Personal Style, the Queen City Style, Simplicity Organizers, closetlog, Janet Caponi, Charlotte Fashion Blog, Southern Style Blog, Joshua Galloway Photographer,

For the love of great style, and I hope to see you there! Whitley

*My photos courtesy of Joshua Galloway

One last thing, if you're a working mama, check out the the 16th Annual Moms@Work Breakfast sponsored by Charlotte Parent Magazine.  This will be a fun opportunity to get a more balanced approach to social media, work-life balance and quick and healthy family meals. 

Click here to register.

Lunch And Learn

Together with the talented ladies of Simplicity Organizers and closetlog, I am very excited to be a part of a unique Lunch & Learn where we will teach you how to get organized and create a closet of personal style. Organizer Laurie Martin will offer tips and strategies on organizing the keepers and how to thoughtfully donate or consign the rest.  Then, yours truly will show you how to streamline your wardrobe and develop your own personal style.  There will be a special sneak preview from Janet Caponi introducing Closet Log, a fabulous new site that catalogs your wardrobe all from your PC or handheld computer device!  Please bring a friend, and join us at the Junior League of Charlotte.  

Click here to register.

Cost is $25 per person if you register on line. $30 at the door.  

Free for all Junior League members who register through the JL membership site. 

What to bring: A salad topping to share.

I hope to see you there!

-Whitley

Front Row

Image by Green Valley Photography

Presented by Scott Jaguar, this season's Front Row Charlotte will be a show you don't want to miss. Get ready for Fall 2013 with an intimate runway show from men's clothing stores Abbeydale, Blank Canvas, Nordstrom, Silverfly, & Taylor Richards & Conger. Pop-up shops from each participating vendor as well as Revolve Upscale men's Consignment and Dilworth Eye Associates will follow the show where you can purchase everything you see on the runway that night. Everyone gets a front row seat to the best in men's style. Bring out your friends for the ultimate show & shop! All proceeds from ticket sales go toward the Charlotte chapter of Coalition to Unchain Dogs.  I attended last fall's first Front Row event, and though I don't label, this just might be one of my top picks for all time best runway shoes since my first ever under the tents at NYC's Bryant Park in 1999.  In other words, it's an event to get out of your comfort zone (jammies on the couch) and not miss. 

Don't wait! Tickets are selling out fast.

Hope to see you there!

-Whitley

https://frontrowclt.eventbrite.com/

Golfing For A Cause

Rain didn't stop me and my new fun pal Bruce Barber from having a little fashionable fun at Cedarwood Country Club earlier this week.  Presented by LITTLE Diversified Architectural Consulting and The Humana Foundation, the club is home of the 13th Annual Links For Lupus Golf Tournament which tees off Monday, August 26.  While the tournament has sold out, there are still plenty of ways to get involved. Sponsor a beverage cart or hole, or make a donation to the tournaments beneficiary, the Lupus Foundation of American, North Carolina Chapter (LFANC). Proceeds from Links for Lupus support the programs and services offered by LFANC for the 14,000 people in our area, among the 45,000+ individuals living with lupus for which there is no known cause or cure.  Click here to learn more about how to participate in the tournament.

If you're in the Queen City, don't forget to come see me here tonight!

For the love of great style, and fun, thanks for being here!

-Whitley

J. Crew Style Sessions

It's no secret I heart J. Crew.  If you live in the Charlotte area and love J. Crew as much as I do, please join me this Thursday night, August 22nd, at Southpark Mall for the J. Crew Style Sessions.   J. Crew's very Personal Stylists will be on hand to show off their favorite pieces from the new fall collection.  For all your social media fans, the store is asking guests to hash tag their fitting rooms pics with #jcrewstylesessions and post them them to Instagram or Facebook.  A lucky few will be selected to be in the stores next catalog!  So, grab a friend or come solo, and if you go please find me and say hello! 

Hope to see you there!  

-Whitley

Green Jeans, Who's That Girl?!

Don't miss the most talked about semi-annual, 4-day consignment sales for WOMEN in Charlotte! 

Green Jeans features new and gently worn brand name, boutique and designer clothing, shoes and accessories from petite to plus sizes, including maternity for WOMEN & TEENS.  

Shoppers have come to expect a wide array of brand name and designer labels including: Seven for all Mankind, Dooney and Burke, Kate Spade, Ella Moss, Milly, Tory Burch and everyday favorites like Banana Republic, J.Crew and Ann Taylor LOFT. Fashionistas of all sizes and styles will enjoy this FUN and organized shopping event! 

The main event kicks of this Thursday with the SouthPark sale, followed by a second sale in downtown Mooresville in September.   Get all the details here.

Black Tie Cowgirl

Dress: Vintage Nipon Boutique, a few similar options: one, two, three, four. Boots: Charlie 1 Horse Luchese. Hat: Forever 21, (similar). Purse: Chanel. Sunglasses: Blinde (similar pair).  Necklace: by boe. Earrings: Luv Aj.  Bracelets: All hand-me-downs from my Grandmother.

I'll say it, and I'll say it again, not that I need to.  I wear my cowgirl boots with everything, even with a cocktail dress for a fun night at Rooster's.  I know it doesn't really match (you know the Queen City Style is not a matchy matchy place anyway), but I like what I'm comfortable in, and I'm sticking to it.  My cousin gave me this little black tie number about 20 years ago.  It has seen many many grab-a-dates, cocktail parties and various other cocktail functions, not just on me but by a number of girlfriends.  I have to do a fairly choreographed shimmy to get it over my 10,000 body parts, but I dig it, so it's worth the dab of perspiration. Hi-Yo, Silver! Away!

Thank you ever so much for bein' here!

xo-Whitley

Women's Fall Fashion Preview at Belk

Last week I was lucky enough to attend the Fall 2013 preview at Belk, and I am so excited to share the trends that will rule the racks this fall. Arlene Goldstein, VP of Trend Merchandising and Fashion Direction, kicked off the meeting going over some seriously chic trends such as drop waistline dresses, geometric/architectural inspired patterns, as well as ankle boots being the fall go to shoe. Studs, spikes, and jewel embellishments are here to stay and you will see them on anything from boots, jackets, to oversized sweaters. When it comes to jewelry keep your eyes open for beautiful gold tones from rose gold to brass. This fall you will see clothes experimenting with neutrals and pieces that allude sexiness.  So get ready; here is the top ten Most Wanted list for Fall!

1. Slim trouser

2. Button up shirts

3. Statement jackets

4. Fashion sweatshirts

5. Patterned sweaters 

6. Anything leather or vegan leather

7. New knit dress

8. Satchel handbags 

9. Bold jewels

10. Short boots

From left to right, having fun with my amazing intern, Cassie Hayden, Charlotte Magazine Style Editor Laurel Benedum, Arlene Goldstein, and Charlotte Observer/Southpark Magazine Social Editor Olivia Fortson.

I had such a fabulous time at the Fall Fashion Preview.  When it comes to trends, just remember they are great to know, but you can always mix your own personal style to achieve a unique look all your own! Are you most excited about any of the fall fashions you see here?  I would love to hear!

As ever, thank you so much for being here.  

-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