What To Wear: BOB's Pop-Up Pre-Party

Thank you SO much to everyone who voted.  I am humbled, flattered and honored to have received the Charlotte Magazine Best Of The Best award this year for Best Stylist/Personal Shopper.  I have so much fun doing this job that I so love, and I'm super excited that I have the opportunity to style it out with some of the QC's hottest boutiques and YOU!  Please bring a friend (or a few!) and join me this Wednesday night, May 13th, 5:30-7:30pm, at Mezzo1, for a fun night of shopping, styling, cock-tailing and fun!

Of course, this night of fun is in anticipation of the really BIG night of fun, the Big Bad BOB Awards official party. This year's party will be hosted at The Fillmore.  I've been to the party several years, and it really is quite fun (read between the lines... absolutely fantastic PEOPLE WATCHING for DAYS).  Get all the details below, or click here to register.  Hope to see you there, and if you do come, please find me and say hello!

Your Head Looks Weird

If you live in the Charlotte area, next time you are at SouthPark Mall or in the area, be sure to snag a copy of SouthPark Magazine.  I very worked hard on this one, along with an amazing team of individuals, businesses and boutiques, and I am flattered, humbled and excited to be a part the May issue.  The below picture is one in the series of images where I get to show off some really amazing clothes from a few of my favorite local boutiques.  My oldest son, Hank, now 7, saw the below image come up on my facebook page.  I couldn't help but chuckle at his reaction to seeing me dressed up like this.  (Let's be honest, I am a working mom of two active boys, the only time I look like this is for a photo shoot.  The next closest I come is on Sunday for church, date night or when I am meeting clients, but it is a loooong way off from this.

Hank: Mommy, is that you?
Me: (Excitedly) Yes!  What do you think? 
Hank: I don't get it.  it's weird.  Your head looks weird.  You look like you are someone else.
Me: Okay, well, does the rest of my body look like me?
Hank: Yea.
Me: Well, then do you at least like my outfit?
Hank: Why would I like it?!  I'm not a girl! (Runs upstairs to yell at little brother Worth for singing Let It Go again).

Ahh.  The honesty of a child.

Photography: Zach Alston. Hair and Makeup: Deme Fourtounis. Jumpsuit: Yoana Baraschi (from ChezElle), here in black. Kimono: Tracy Reese (from ChezElle), and here. Wedges: Jimmy Choo (from Coplon's) or here. Earrings: Kenneth J Lane (from Coplon's), similar here. Ring: Available at ChezElle. Necklace: by boe.

Spring Cleaning Tips and Trends With Goodwill Industries

I'm back with another update for my wonderful partnership with Goodwill Industries of the Southern Piedmont!  Today I'm sharing some Spring Cleaning Tips and Trends. Click here to read the entire post over on Goodwill's WOW! blog.

I did a little shopping earlier this week in preparation for my tv segment on Wilson's World, bright and early Monday morning.  Be sure to tune in to see all of the amazing items I found, including these groovy duds that totally reflect the bohemian trend, as well this pair of fantastic brass herons.  We had these same birds at my house growing up, handed down from my Grandparents!  I think they hit the donation bin when we moved out of my house in Asheville. I'm so glad to have this most stylish pair of birds back in my life again!

Okay, if you're up at the crack of down Monday morning, please be sure join me at 6 a.m. on Wilson's World!

I Wore Self Portrait

I recently attended the Carolina's 75 Most Stylish event hosted by Carolina STYLE Magazine.  It was so flattering to be included on their chosen list of most stylish, and boy was I in good company.

Roxy Owens, Richard Petty (let's just be honest, with his signature hat, belt buckle and dark sunglasses, the man is a style setter!), Liz and Clary Hilliard, Linda Martinez, sisters Elizabeth and Jacquelyn of Twine & Twig to name a few.  

I decided the event would be the perfect place to wear this little jumper by Self Portrait.  As you can see in the picture below, when they called my name first to come have my picture taken, I had no idea what to do before the camera in a sea of people standing and watching. When in doubt jazz hands and say cheese! 

Here are a few of my favorite current pieces from Self Portrait.  You can shop them all here, here and here, including my jumpsuit.

Get Your Stretch On With Run For Your Life

I'm back with one more post with my running partners over at Run For Your Life. Today's post is about the importance of stretching.  While I won't be running the Boston Marathon this year, I think about my training last year and all of the friends I'll be cheering on in spirit this year.

If you are a runner who likes to visit the Queen City Style, here are a few stretches to keep your body flexible and muscles conditioned.  We used the Pro Tec Foam Roller to help stretch and stimulate the muscles for the following - hamstrings - IT band - quads and calves.  Roll each muscle back and forth 10 times, and do at least three sets. By doing these exercises on a daily basis it will help alleviate muscle and soft tissue tightness of the upper and lower back, IT band, hamstring, abductors, and upper arm + more. We also used the Deep Tissue Massage Ball which targets similar muscle groups but focus on smaller areas.

The key to Running is COMFORT! Running is hard enough, so it's important to be as comfortable as possible by wearing and using the following items... Moisture wicking clothes and socks...NO COTTON, Hats and Sport Sunglasses, Proper Shoes, Body Glide, Water Bottles and Belts.  With regard to nutrition, you should put something back in your body every 45 mins. All of these stretching and nutritional products are available at your local Run For Your Life.  Check out Run For Your Life's four locations.

Spring Cleaning With Goodwill

I could not be more excited about my partnership with Goodwill Industries of the Southern Piedmont.  Today I had the wonderful opportunity to stop in again with my friends over at WCNCTV Charlotte Today to visit Colleen and Eugene and talk about spring cleaning and a few of this season's most fun trends you can shop at Goodwill while making your donations.  I won't write any more, because I hope you will watch and enjoy the short segment here! It's really amazing what goodies you will find while helping others obtain employment.  As always, thanks for tuning in here to the Queen City Style!

GoodWill Good Deeds Week + Me

Goodwill Industries recently celebrated their 50th Anniversary. In observance, Goodwill of the Southern Piedmont teamed up with Charlotte Today for Goodwill's Week of Good Deeds, one for each week day. Goodwill was so kind to include me in this celebration.  As I said in a teaser on my Facebook page, it's not about the designer shades, fancy handbags or shoes. THIS is what it's about.  Thank you again Goodwill for letting me share this wonderful experience with you, sweet Raven and my friends at Charlotte Today!

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!

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.

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!

Give Back With BeautyKind

Thanks to our good friends at Peachy the Magazine, the Queen City Style is excited to be partnering with BeautyKind, a new online retailer of beauty products with an interest in giving back. For every purchase, BeautyKind gives back 5% of the purchase price to their customer's cause of choice. What could be better than giving back while purchasing the brands you love and discovering new favorites?

And it's so simple. Just sign up with BeautyKind and select your cause. Login and complete a purchase, and 5% of your purchase price automatically goes to your cause. I have chosen the ALS Association, in honor of my Grandfather, but there are many causes from which to choose. If you can't find your favorite cause, let them know and they will work to get it added!

Another perk is that 1% of what you spend turns into points that can be used for future purchases, donations, or simply cashed out. If you choose to refer friends to BeautyKind you can earn 1% on their purchases. And as your friends share with their friends, your community will grow. The larger your community, the more you earn AND the more that's given back. 

Receive 20% off your first order when you sign up for BeautyKind using this link.

Below are some of my picks for this holiday season…all available through BeautyKind. Just click on the link of the item you would like to purchase.

Body Oil, Folding Dryer, Holiday Candle, Rollers, Body Scrub, Nail Polish, Room Spray, Hand Cream, Hand Lotion

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!

Three

It's been three years since I launched this little place in internet space.  I can't believe it's been three years!  It's been so fun growing, learning, all the challenges, all of the fun, the amazing, awesome people I meet. The creative opportunities, my BUSINESS which has grown out of this little place in internet space.  Never did I think a private hobby would grow to be my dreams coming true.  Literally!  This whole fashion/style obsession started for me as a teeny thing, and now I have finally found a way to make my passion into something REAL!  I don't think I will ever be able to fully convey the joy I have felt, as a result.  Every. Step. Of. The. Way.  And new even more exciting things are yet to come.  Thank you to everyone who has commented here, not commented but enjoyed reading, reached across the produce aisle to introduce do themselves to me or flung themselves into a late night introductory embrace at Selwyn Pub. Meeting readers is the coolest thing... until that person says "Whoa Crazy Nelly. We just met. You can stop hugging me now!"  That's really the only way I know how to be though.  Grateful. Happy. Overjoyed. Thanks for being here.  Whether you've been following along the journey for the last three years, or you stumbled upon the Queen City Style yesterday, thanks for being here.  A few favorites from over the years...

Organize Your Closet

Here's your quick and easy, free advice folks!  My friends over at Simplicity, Charlotte's organization guru squad share the quick and dirty on how to organize your closet.  Check it out for yourself, or learn more about Simplicity here.

Laugh And Glo

Grab a girlfriend or five and join me at gorgeousGlo, my favorite spray tanning boutique in the QC, for a night of bubbles, bites, laughter and fun.  (Operated by the same awesome gals who style my hair at BLo ouT, in my most important times of need!)  Come see what all the gab is about!

Green Jeans Consignment at Lake Norman

The Green Jeans Consignment Sale for Women and Teens returns to Lake Norman this week.  It's the Charlotte area's largest consignment event. Don't miss your chance to score great deals on clothing, shoes, jewelry and accessories. The sale opens to the public on Wednesday, continuing through Sunday afternoon, but you can shop early at the Charity Pre-Sale on Tuesday night. Get all the details here.

In The Pink With Ralph Lauren and Belk

We all know that October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month.  With that comes a whole lotta pink, and there is NO shortage of this pretty color over at Belk!  Last week I visited the Belk Corporate Headquarters for an exciting announcement of all things PINK at Belk during the month of October and year round.  At the event, through a special collaboration, the Lauren Ralph Lauren brand presented their Lauren Pink line of products to be sold at all Belk stores and on line where 10% of all of products sold are donated to the Belk Women's Health Fund at Foundation For The Carolinas. I also took a tour of the Belk Mobile Mammography Bus that visits Belk stores around the country, year round, offering free mammograms to the community. I had no idea... what an impressive way to give back! View tour dates here to get your free mammogram, and of course, outfit details are at the bottom of this post!

Dress: W By Worth. Shoes: Calvin Klein (old). Earrings: thanks to Chloe & Isabel. Purse: My Great Grandmother's. Ring: Melinda Maria. Sunglasses: Kate Spade (similar here).