Adios Amigos! + Giveaway Winner

By the time this post reaches most of you I will be on a plane to sunny Playa del Carmen, Mexico for a spontaneous (is there any better kind?) much needed get-away.  My girl Nic, super stylish and fun writer of Manners and Moxie is wing girlin' it with me.  Really, really looking forward to this view from the rooftop pool terrace.  Like our own little mini Sex and the City.

So on to the part you are all waiting for.  Click here to see if you are the lucky winner of the $50 Gift Card Giveaway to The Boulevard at South End!  Thanks to everyone who entered, and thank you, as ever for being here.  the Queen City Style and you bring me so much joy!

See you on the flip side! -Whitley

Will You Please Help Me Grow?

Happy Weekend Everyone!

Just one little ask of you...

This is a very ambitious goal, but that's the only kind to set, right? I would love to reach 1,000 Facebook thumbs ups by the New Year. If you are not already a fan of the Queen City Style on Facebook, may I have your stamp of love?

I often post unique things on the Facebook page and would love so much to share it with you.

Just click here.

I hope you are having a fantabulous weekend!!

Thank you, in advance!  I am so grateful!  Whitley

Six Years

Today I celebrate six years being married to Most Wonderful Man in the World.  I have really enjoyed peeks into the lives of so many other bloggers I follow, so I thought I would share this little bit about me and my family.  I hope you enjoy!

I appreciate Jon so much for believing in me and for always being understanding, caring and loving.  He encourages me to go after my dreams and to not worry so much about unnecessary things or others when I sometimes do.  He shows me proper perspective when I need it.  He helps me realize my gifts and talents when I sometimes doubt.  There are so many reasons I am so grateful for this man.  I am blessed and lucky beyond measure.  

I hope you enjoy this little peak at the man behind all the awesome pictures on the Queen City Style.

Where it all started.  We met seeing The Samples in concert. Me, Sean Kelly and Jon.  Pretty funny.

First year of dating; cheering the Tar Heels on to victory at the Continental Tire Bowl.

Year two of dating.  Lots of fun times spent on boats...

He popped the question just a little over a year and a half into it.  I was in so much shock I could not enter the room.  This was taken at a wedding shower.  So much fun with great friends.

Ta-Da!!

Thanks so much to our parents, friends and family.  I could not have asked for a more fun weekend.  For the sake of photos, my mother smartly removed cocktails from both of our hands as we exited the reception.  I grabbed two much needed bottles of water on the way out the door!

Here's a picture from our honeymoon tour of the French Polynesia, including my first time Scuba diving.  The instructor gave a 10 minute tutorial, pushed us overboard and instructed us to wave underwater if we needed anything.  Umm... okay?!

First year of marriage; I was a shocked but thrilled 11 weeks pregnant in this photo. 

And in this one.... with our sweet Macy girl.

Second year of marriage, along comes Precious Peanut #1.

Hank meets Rameses at his first Carolina football game!

A little bit of fooling around is always fun...

Year three.  I won't share all the details of this tough couple of months, but most wonderful man in the world swooped me up off my feet with a surprise 33rd birthday party at our house.  Here we are at one of our favorite wine bars while a house full of friends and family were getting ready to shout 'Surprise!'  Such a Sweet Pea!!

Year four; headed to the hospital to deliver Precious Peanut #2...

The two Peanuts meet!

Year five... 

A couple of weeks ago I very well may have run the race of my career, and there he was at the finish line with our two Peanuts.  My thoughts were consumed with so much joy from the hard work paying off, and all I could do was hug this man and feel so grateful for him always supporting me.  I wouldn't want to do any of this thing called life without you, honey!  Happy Anniversary.  I love you!

And I thank all of you...

So grateful for each and every one of you joining me here at the Queen City Style!

Whitley

Goodbye, Hello

Goodbye...

Hello...

The Saturday before last marked the first day of fall.  Yes, this is a fashion blog, but I thought I would share some of my favorite things about summer and fall as we look back at one season and welcome another.  I always hate to see summer go, but I never find it hard to welcome the cool, crisp temps and beautiful colors that accompany fall.  I love the beach, perhaps more than anything.  I've been wearing an old button down shirt of my fathers as my cover up for as long as I can remember.  It is the perfect summer weight, and I think it is a good looking shirt.  I grew up in the mountains of North Carolina, and so naturally, fall makes me think of hometown friends and football.  My Dad lives in the most special little place. We love going there for laid back days with the family, Gator Rides and fun times with friends.  Which season is your favorite?

I look forward to styling some fun fall fashion here with you!

Thanks so much for being here, Whitley

Two Things (Harem Pants Giveaway Winner)

Hello Everyone!  I hope you had a wonderful week.  I am still getting settled back here in the Queen City after a beyond amazing trip to NYC.  I can't wait to tell you all about it, but for now, just a couple of things. 

1. Please click here to view my new Facebook Fan Page.  I'm really proud of it :).  If you are a not already a fan of the Queen City Style on Facebook, I would love to have your thumbs up!  I share a lot of things on that feed that are not here on the blog.
2. Click here to see if you were the winner of the Woman Shops World Harem Pants!

Have a Wonderful Weekend!!!  Whitley

All My Bags Are Packed, I'm Ready To Go

I love this song....

All my bags are packed, I'm ready to go. I'm standing here outside your door.  I hate to wake you up to say goodbye.  But the dawn is breaking this early morn.  The taxi's waiting, he's blown his horn.  Already I'm so lonesome I could die. So kiss me and smile for me.  Tell me that you'll wait for me.  Hold me like you'll never let me go.  'Cause I'm leaving on a jet plane, don't know when I'll be back again. Oh babe I hate to go...

My mom took me to see John Denver at an outdoor concert in Black Mountain when I was a young girl.  It was a moment I'll never forget.  SO... by the time most of you read this I will be en route to the greatest city in the world, New York City!  It's fashion week, and I'll be attending two fashion blogger conferences, LuckyFabb, organized by Lucky Magazine and IFBCON, hosted by Independent Fashion Bloggers.  The keynote speakers are, respectively, stylist Rachel Zoe and the legendary model Iman.  I'm pretty freaking excited.  In the spirit of sharing that excitement, I thought I would show all of you what's in my packed bags, I mean BAG.  That's correct.  I am NOT checking a bag on the plane for NYC Fashion Week!!  Woot! Woot!  I'm pretty proud :). Anyway, here's how it all went down...

In addition to my toiletries, camera, book, healthy snacks, sunglasses, etc., above are five outfits, one of which I'll be wearing on the plane.  This outfit would include my fav new garment-harem pants!  What to wear to these conferences is all the buzz and several people have suggested I wear them, so I'm taking this pair by

Woman Shops World

, along with my

Gap denim jacket

and sequin top from my mother-in-law.

And this pair, styled with a crisp white wrap blouse and my trusty

denim jacket

again...

Then, there's this flirty little thing I call my house dress, which I've had for about 10 years, paired with

Steve Madden nude pumps

, vintage cuff and beads.  Love it.

Palazzo pants from

Anthropologie

I last wore

here

, (

here's a sweet pair

), paired with a fitted wrap blouse, and my newest accessory; a gold and black geometric print cuff from

Sloan Boutique

.

Then I have this loose fitting, silk blue dress with embellishments that I love, paired with a 

black jacket from an old J. Crew work suit

, BCBG pumps and lots of funky accessories, of course.

I rolled all of the clothing items tightly, put shoes into individual shoe bags, cut out any unnecessary toiletries, taking one purse, one clutch (my fav

JJ Winters

from

Lipp Boutique

), my small digital camera and... 

Voila!  I'm ready to go!  I cannot believe it.  The last thing I want to spend my money on is checking a bag.  Uh Oh.  What am I going to do if I go shopping in NYC?  Uh, how am I not going to go shopping??

Wish me luck!  Can't wait to share my experiences with you when I get back to the Queen City!

Ciao Baby!  xx-Whitley

Simplify

Outfit Credits Here.

I've been a busy bee working on some exciting projects, one of which includes the simplification of the Queen City Style.  This was originally a place to share anything and everything I deemed stylish--fabulous fashion, great home design, stylish places, entertaining and my enjoyment in writing.  Since November 2011, I've had such fun sharing my love of all things stylish, and more so, reading what you've had to say about it.  I was soon able to see that I was getting the most feedback on fashion-inspired posts, so I began tailoring my content to reflect that. I've enjoyed every step of the way, and I have excitedly embraced your interest in fashion.  I will continue to work to incorporate non-fashion topics of style into the content, be it through photos and/or abbreviated writing.  As the Queen City Style has evolved into a fashion blog, I've realized the look needs to be simplified.  In the world of fashion blogging, it's true; a picture says a thousand words. I feel this is exactly where I need to be, and I am so, so grateful you are here with me.  I write this post from Pawley's Island, SC, a place of joy, simplification and calm since childhood.  Thank you for making the Queen City Style that place for me now.  I hope you like the new look!  

So happy and grateful to share with you my style... Whitley

The Epitome of California Cool

This past weekend marked the annual Crook family reunion.

This is my father's mother's family.  My Grandmother, who passed away in 2010, was the youngest of 11 siblings.  At 95 years of age, she was the last of the siblings to pass.  As you can probably imagine, this brings a lot of people together at one time, which is so much fun.  We lost loved ones over this past year, and we remember them in our hearts as we celebrate this special family time together.  We also had two of our newest members join the reunion this year.  It is hard to believe there is a new generation at the helm.  Below is a group shot, which is always fun to try and get.  I would say this is only about half of the group, perhaps less, but it's a good showing.  I love being with each and every one of you!

So... onto the fashion!  My cousin, Leslie, who I consider to be more of a big sister to me has always had THE coolest style.  A Columbia, SC native, after college, Leslie moved to California to pursue a career in the film industry.  While the majority of her time was spent behind the camera, she's made a few appearances on the front side.  My favorite, of course, is in the movie Shag.  I couldn't find a clip on-line where you can see Leslie, but she was in this incredible scene that gives me goosebumps every time I watch.  

Best. Movie. Ever.

Leslie has always had the most chilled out, relaxed, casual cool style, and now that she is a California girl, I call her the Epitome of California Cool.  Befitting, right?  The icing on top... guess her age?  Forty three next week.  Can you believe it?  Happy Birthday my dear!  You look amazing!!

Leslie's Outfit: Shirt: Nordstrom, here's a cute one, Shorts: Old Navy, or similar here, Wrap Bracelet: Sundance, Silver Bracelet: Gift from husband for birth of son, Lois Hill at Nordstrom, here's one or here, Belt: Lucky, Sunglasses: Dolce & Gabbana, Flops: Havaianas, Earrings: handmade of vintage buttons and guitar strings, Northern California designer. Rings: Custom by LA designer.

My Outfit: Dress: Mossimo Supply Co. at Target (old), similar here and here, Shoes: fibi & clo, Sunglasses: Kate Spade (old), here's the current version, Earrings: World Market ($5 score!), but I adore these, Bracelet: old, but love this one, Ring: Tiffany.

For the love of being with family, in great style,

Happy Monday, Y'all!  Whitley

My Weekend in Pictures and Sale Alerts: Shopbop, NET-A-PORTER

I would like to thank most wonderful man in the world and most wonderful mother-in-law and father-in-law in the world for their participation in my fabulous weekend! Friday Precious Peanut #1 and Precious Peanut #2 and I went down at Hall Family Farm for some strawberry pickin'. Farmer Worth inspects Farmer Hank's work.

Farmer Worth had one to many.  Completely drunk off strawberries.

It was a wonderful Friday activity with my boys, and so begins my wonderful, totally relaxing weekend.  Most wonderful man the world and Precious Peanut #1 hitched the boat and trailer to the back of the truck ready for a weekend of boat time at Jordan Lake with an old college friend and his son.  Enter most wonderful in-laws in the world.  They took Precious Peanut #2 for their own little bit of fun at the lake. 

Which left me home.  Alone.

Image via.

Raise up! The first thing I did was strap on my shoes and hit the trails. Free at last, free at last; thank God Almighty, I'm free at last! No, just kidding.  Well, maybe not.  Yea, just kidding.  Okay, no.

I returned home to find these precious personalized note cards by the very talented Stephanie Jimenez delivered at my door.

You may recall she drew this custom illustration.

So talented that Stephanie!  Check out her website and Etsy shop.

Friday night included a very tall glass of wine, and to my own surprise, on a whim I ventured out of the house for a going away gathering. Saturday morning entailed me cleaning the house from top to bottom. I'm pretty sure I could run circles around any housekeeper in Charlotte. Saturday afternoon looked like this.  Freaking fabulous. An afternoon by the pool with one of my besties and a new book.  

So I hear, bring on the raunchy!

After the pool, a trip to Rountree Plantation, so I could get potting!

A few more pages at the book, and that was enough for me. Sunday morning, rise and shine much earlier than planned... 6am!  What the?!  Birds, really??  Must you chirp so loud and happy so early? Strap on the shoes once again for a 10 miler with my running pal. Perfect weather.  Sunshine, cool, crisp.  Heaven.

We have a tradition in our house. Pancake Saturday. I know it's Sunday, and I'm the only one eating, but I just had to. Fresh picked strawberries for my pancakes!

Aaahhhh. Shower, breakfast and book on the patio.

After breakfast, four hours of working on the Queen City Style, then I couldn't resist not getting more flowers on such a pretty day!

Worked on a few baskets. Met our new neighbors and their cute dog. Macy was in doggy Heaven on her little doggy play date.

The sun is starting to go down, so I've retreated back into the house for a delicious salad, topped with fresh strawberries, of course, and one of my favorite everyday Chenin Blanc's, Spier Anno 1692.

 I expect my boys to be pulling down the driveway any second! One last thing,a couple of my favorite on-line shopping sites are currently having some major sales. Shopbop...

I love these little faux-suede shorts

.

and NET-A-PORTER. I'd be totally down with rockin' this romper, if only!

Happy Shopping, in the very best style of course!- Whitley

Sale Mania + Meet JoJo Loves You!

The Memorial Holiday Weekend is approaching, and this typically means there are a few things on which you can count. Lots of sunshine, a day of rest, cold bevvies, the lake, the beach, the pool... Some form of water. And yes, you know it, all kinds of fabulous sales!

Have you met JoJo Loves You?

If not, please allow me to introduce you to all of her fabulous BLING!

Each of these beauties are hand made of Swarovski crystals, and the earrings come in literally every color of the rainbow!

Naturally, I'm drawn to the blingiest of them all. 

Immediately Bridesmaid Gifts comes to my mind.

I did have the most precious earrings made by a friend for each of my maids, but how perfect are these earrings for bridesmaid gifts? Or just to have and to hold all to yourself.

I think these psychedelic bauble bombs are going to have to be mine.

Naturally, JoJo Loves You is on board with the weekend's retail madness. The Bling you see above normally retails for $30/pair, but this Friday through Monday, here's what you're looking at:

Oh Geez.  I didn't need to see this. I just took a glance at their SALE page, and now I see this Agate Pendant. AND, there is only ONE remaining. What am I going to do? Surely somebody out there is feeling guilty about forgetting my birthday, or you just pity me and think this necklace will help. It really will make everything better. 

Freak.  Why did I have to see this?

I gotta go get my piggy bank and calculator. In the meantime, get your own JoJo Loves You Bling here! Also on Facebook and Twitter.

For the love of all things stylish and all things Bling,

I hope you are having a wonderful week!  Whitley

New Hair--Ombre or Color Streaks?

I got some new hair yesterday, and I am so excited! I could do back flips right now! Well, maybe cartwheels.  I think I might be too old for back flips. But anyway, I am VERY excited. There is a reason you see me with a scarf on my head so often. Besides the fact that they are the single best accessory known to woman, did you know that they are excellent at hiding unsightly roots?

Not that you have any grey roots shining through on your pretty head. Much to my stylist's chagrin, however, I have more than few roots to hide. I don't seem to find (or perhaps make) the time to get in to see her... Youch.

For a while I've been wanting to do something different with my hair. An almost unavoidable magnetism to all things exciting, fun and different has been overdrive for me ever since I pursued this blog, and perhaps I've felt my hair would be an appropriate channel for some of my creative frustration.

What do you think?

Image via

Just kidding.

But really, I have been thinking about a fun dose of color. Rachel McAdams is certainly a good inspiration. I know I'm no Rachel McAdams, but her display of confidence and independent style certainly fuels my "I don't give a S*#T what people say" inner self.

Image via

Image Via

Blue Hair Streak

Image Via

Aurora and I decided we would not take that plunge (just yet :), but she knew I wanted something to shake things up a bit. She sent me these next two images which are examples of the Ombre style.

Image Via

Image Via

Excitedly, I agreed, "Let's do it!" So we did...

BOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!  That's some scary stuff. I think I'd rather take a few style notes from the Nuns. (I finished those last few pages of my first book since LAST summer!) How fulfilling getting your hair did is for so many reasons!

Without further adieu...

Introducing... MY NEW HAIR!!!

Man, I feel good.

There's definitely going to be an issue with me trying to get this look. 99.99% of the time I'm not patient enough for more than an elastic, but I'm definitely motivated now more than ever to ditch the pony!

Day 2 (today)... I think I smiled during my sleep through to this morning!

I will say that on the days that I do manage to wear my hair down, I've gotten some really nice compliments, all thanks to Aurora. If you are on the market for a new stylist and would like to meet Aurora, she is offering 10% off of your first service if you mention this post!

Aurora's salon, Borealis, is located in the Dilworth neighborhood. She is available by appointment only, so give her a call! 704-497-3323.

She'd love to meet you!  

Oh, and Aurora did tell me how to DIY the color streaks, so expect to see some of that fun color!

Tank: Gap, Linen Shorts: H&M, and here's another bright pair, Belt: Wink (unfortunately no longer made), Sunglasses: Ray-Ban Aviators, Earrings: gifted, Bracelet: from Ivy & Leo, but here's a great everyday chain link bracelet, Shoes: LOFT (old), but here's a great pair, or the frugal find. One last thing before you go...

Check out Ashley's, Charlotte-based blog, Sweet Southern Prep. She's offering a pretty sweet giveaway for this awesome python embossed leather wallet by GiGi New York.

Be sure to let her know the Queen City Style sent you!

I'm so excited for tonight's Charlotte Magazine BOB Awards Party!

I can't wait to share pics with you next week, but for now, I better go figure out what to wear!!?!

For the love of feeling good in great style, 

I thank you SOO much for reading!  xo-Whitley

Happy Mother's Day

 Happy Mother's Day to all the Mothers, 

Grandmothers, Aunts, Sisters, Godmothers, Girlfriends

and anyone else out there who has played a loving role in a child's life.

It truly takes a village to see that the precious little beings of our world have the necessary guidance, love, encouragement and support to feel confident and realize their full potential to be great and become the next generation of role models. I am grateful to all of the women in my life who have instilled confidence, love, faith and courage, not only in me, but in my two precious boys. Happy Mother's Day to all of you who have touched the life of a child!

My Hanky

My sweet baby Worth

My Mom and Hank

My loving mother-in-law.

Mary and Hank

Hank's Godmother, Anna.

Hank's Godmother, Ashley.

Worth's Godmother, Katherine.

One of my Godmothers, Susan. I cannot seem to put my hands on a picture of Aunt Jane, (mama has them all) but you know I love you very much!!

Me and my mama and Hanky.

My Mom.

Go on which ya bad self!

With my Mom at the Rhododendron Brigade Mother-Daughter Luncheon, 1996.

Four generations: my Great-Grandmother, Willa, my Grandmother, Martha, my Mom and Me.

These are the two stylish ladies you read about on the Queen City Style!

Not long before Willa passed.  She lived to be 96.  She was so lovely!!

The two leading ladies during their "finest hour," as my mother calls it.

Me and my precious boys.

This one's for you, Mom!

Happy Mother's Day!  

I love you.

For the love of being the very best role model, in the very

best of style.  I wish everyone an absolutely lovely day!  Whitley

Southern Wedding Shower

Dear Friends,

I am very excited to be hosting a virtual wedding shower today for my beautiful, super stylish, sweet friend, Ivana.

When Ivana and I decided to host a blog swap with one other, we immediately got to thinking about what this would look like. Ivana reminded me of her wedding date, exactly one year from today!

I've been keeping an eye on Ivana's fun fashion sense, from all the way over in Austria might I add, ever since I started writing the Queen City Style. A contentious risk taker with her own style, trends and fashion, Ivana's got a flair for all things fun, fabulous and French. She has fond memories of a strong bond with her stylish Grandmother, reminding me of my relationship with my own.

Not to mention, that pretty face. Precious Peanut #1 star gazingly pointed out the obvious one day: "Mommy, is that pretty lady your friend?" 

Ivana loves the finer things in life as much as the rest of us. Her blog, Macarons and Pearls, is the perfect channel for vicariously living such a fine life, unless of course, you already do.  

And in that case, cheers to you! As you can see, like the rest of us girls, Ivana loves an opportunity to be creative and play dress up, so today I am giving her that by way of throwing her a Southern Wedding Shower. I thought this would be a fun way to share with her a little about our culture and traditionally conservative and classy way of doing things, for which we Southerners are all so proud. So cheers to you, Ivana!  I hope you enjoy your special day today!

Let's start with the location. 

Since Ivana's shower is being held right here in the Queen City, I immediately turned to the The Duke Mansion. I've attended a number of events at this gorgeous home, now operating as a Southern Bed and Breakfast, and I've never been less than enamored with the home and ground's interior and exterior beauty. I know Ivana and the closest ladies in her life will enjoy their stay here. I thought it might be nice for Ivana's guests to enter the Mansion,

and as they pass through the foyer...

 ...delight themselves with either one of these tasty treats. A peach green iced tea with mint,

or if you are feeling extra festive in celebration of Ivana's upcoming nuptials, perhaps treat yourself to something a little more bold; a Mint Julep garnished with fresh mint, served from a Julep cup.

The gardens at The Duke Mansion are a lovely place for conversation and good tidings. 

It's starting to get warm in the South, so we'll make sure the gardens are flanked with lots of Sago Palms and Ferns to help us feel a little more breezy in the heat.

What shall we serve?  Nothing to heavy.  We will dine on a light lunch. How about a few passed hors d' oeuvres, consisting of finger sandwiches? Cucumber Tea Sandwiches, of course.

Naturally, Deviled Eggs.

Without question, little ham biscuits.

Making our way back inside, we'll take our seats at tables draped with white tables cloths and delicate doilies placed at each setting.

I'd find a way to work them into this table, which cheerfully displays all of the traditional elements of a Southern table, with a modern twist thanks to the chevron napkins an colored candlesticks.

The table will, of course, be accessorized with pink peonies and white hydrangea galore.

We'll serve a delicate lunch consisting of avocado and grapefruit salad, supplemented with fresh lump crab meat.  No filler.

Passed garlic cheese biscuits.  Hhhmmm Hmmm.

If you've saved room for desert, I was thinking Bananas Foster prepared table side.  

At least that is what I was planning on, until saw this. Bananas Foster Belgium Waffles.

Ivana, I know about you and your little sweet tooth.  Eat your heart out!

But I must warn you, this might be you...

We must shower you will gifts, my dear. I can think of nothing more southern or luxurious than monogrammed linens from Leontine Linens.

You'll need this as you exchange vows with your lucky lad, Philippe.

As parting gifts, I hope your guests will enjoy Quartz Votive Holders and Worcester Jar matches, both by Design Darling. Store owner and Blogger, Mackenzie, offers just the cutest things!

Since Ivana has a thing for pastels, I thought I would wear this ensemble I recently styled.  Ironically enough, the photos were taken just doors down from The Duke Mansion. How do I look, Ivana? The floppy brimmed straw hat, a warm weather staple for any Southern Lady, is good for keeping cool on sunny days.

You certainly don't need me to tell you this, Ivana, but...

You already are, my dear, and I'm having so much fun watching your stylish self do it.

I hope you have had a lovely day! I look forward to following along with more preparations leading up to your big day!!

For the love of celebrating with friends, in the very best of style-- Whitley

Bits of Charleston

I had a wonderful time celebrating my mother-in-law's birthday in the Holy City with her and my sister-in-law this past weekend.

Charleston is the loveliest place, and at just about three hours drive time from the Queen City, it's one I could stand to take any 'ole time.

I share with you my weekend in pictures and notes...

The Charleston City Market is one of the most recognizable landmarks of Charleston. Since my last visit, the Market has undergone massive renovations. Much of the Market is now enclosed and air conditioned. History is beautifully restored.

Throughout the years, my family has stayed in Charleston by way of Historic Charleston Bed & Breakfast.  It is such a lovely way to stay in the city, see the sights and feel right at home. For our stay on this particular visit, we rested in a newly renovated loft condominium.  Our location could not have been better.

First stop, my absolute favorite spot for lunch, Sermet's Downtown. This quaint, Southern and hospitable dining establishment has also been renovated since my last visit. Along with the new look came this handsome, friendly father-son duo to greet you at the door. Love, loving the bow ties, dinner jackets, curtains, ceiling, floors, white table cloths....Oh Heavens, loving it all!

When you go, please say hello from the Queen City Style!

 You know I had to get Precious Pea #1 a searcy. He is always so cool with his sunglasses on... until his loses them. We solved that problem with his very own pair of SC Croakies! How aprapo.

No visit to Charleston is complete without a stroll down the boardwalk.

I proudly kept my spending to a minimum with the exception of the Croakies, a shirt for most wonderful man in the world and this ring, which my mother-in-law so kindly helped me purchase.  LOVE! It's by Los Angeles jewelry designer Melinda Maria from the adorable eclectic boutique, Cose Belle.

Did you this about the College of Charleston? 

I did not.  Wow.

So beautiful.

Not my bike.  Just posing and pretending.

Perhaps one of the most beautiful characteristics of Charleston is all the lovely homes, their gardens and flower boxes.

I leave you with a discovery brand new to me. I stumbled across this Church pathway while on my Sunday morning run. It's just off of King Street.

As you approach the gates...

... and pass through the entrance...

...and travel down this magical path...

... an old cemetery is the destination. 

So enthralling to me. Has anyone else this? There is so much history and richness to discover in Charleston, SC. It is just the most lovely place.

I hope you enjoyed these images and notes from my weekend. For the love of magical findings just down the road, I hope you are having a marvelous week!  Whitley

See You Next Week!

Just a quick hello, and wishing you a happy weekend! I'm heading here with my mother-in-law and sister-in-law to celebrate my mother-in-law's special birthday...

Yep.  The one and only Charleston, South Carolina. Oh, the Carolinas. Do they come any lovelier? I hope you and yours have a splendid weekend!

See you next week! -Whitley

Glimpse of Summer

Happy Weekend Friends! Not much to say today other than a quick hello! I'm getting ready to head out for one of these. Not a race, but just a run. I find there is no better way to start your weekend, or your day for that matter. It feels so good to get the juices flowing.

It's looking to be low 70's and party sunny today. For those of you who don't already know, our family loves the lake. Most wonderful man in the world skied on the water ski team in college. One of our very first dates included him asking me if I'd like to go test drive a boat with him he was thinking of purchasing. It was the dead of winter.  He strapped on his wet suit. Spandex from head to toe (yikes), and started hopping around, doing things like this.

And this.

That pretty much did it for me. Then he got to giving me lessons. I'll never come remotely close to looking as good as he does, but I've had fun doing my best to impress him.

It's safe to say we all love the water. Macy girl is usually leading the charge. Get me there as fast as you can!

Toby and Lucy, my mother and father-in-law's dogs, howl at the water.

All the water dogs doing their best to exercise restraint.

Hank's second summer, and first time "skiing".

My third proudest moment as a parent,  following the birth of my boys, was watching Hank do this last summer.

We'll see what summer 2012 holds for Hank and baby Worth. Last summer, Worth spent his days on the boat just chillin'.

No matter what, the lake always promises a good time.

Blue skies, sunshine, wind blowing... Sunnies on, hat backwards, cold bevy in hand. Perhaps my favorite part about the lake is the calming affect. You are forced to do nothing, but kick your feet up and relax. We can all use a little relaxation. Ready for summer to begin.

 Macy girl certainly is.

One thing's for sure. You won't find me on a boat without a handful of inspiration. I hope you like what you see is to come...

What's your favorite summer enjoyment?

For the love of nothing more stylish than chillin' out... 

Happy Weekend!  Whitley

A Splendid Weekend

Hello my stylish friends! I hope you had a lovely Easter weekend. Here in the Queen City, the weather could not have been more gorgeous. Low 70's, sunny and a slight breeze. It's no wonder everyone wants to move to the South. God's country indeed.

I thought I would share with you a few pics from our weekend. Big Boy Hank turned four on Saturday. As if I need one more project, I added cake decorator to my resume once I started having children. This year I took on the biggest Bad Daddy of them all in decorating Hank's Lighting McQueen birthday cake.

Given I did not have the mold until 9pm the night prior to, nor did I have any but one of the icing tips for which the instructions called, I was pretty freaking scared. Not gonna lie. However, judging Hank's expression upon entering the kitchen the morning of his birthday, I think it all worked out just fine. Cake for breakfast?  Why, yes!

Happy Birthday Hank! We took it to my Dad's cabin at the Crook Family Homestead just across the border for a day of celebration. Such a glorious day!

Most wonderful man in the world and precious pea #2.

A little Gator riding.

 An Easter Egg Hunt.

Presenting Red Velvet Lightening McQueen!

Make a wish!

Boys and their toys.

Macy Girl had a blast swimming in the pond.

And today...

Hallelujah!

A Blessed Easter Weekend indeed.

I can't believe we got a picture of both boys smiling and happy. Here's hoping your day was just as glorious! On a finishing style note, I am soooo excited about my new sunnies, which you will be seeing on the Queen City Style all sunshiny season long. I borrowed this pair of Blinde Natural Born Thriller's from a friend for the recent Trunk Show post.

I loved them so much, I had to have a pair for myself. I had a hard time locating these bad boys on line, but I did manage to find ONE retailer in the Queen City, Doctors Vision Center, that carries the Blinde brand. Head on over, and get you some shade for the sun.

I look forward to seeing you again soon, through my new stylin' sunnies. For the love of a Stylish, Holy, Joyful and Fun Family Weekend, all rolled into one...

Happy top 'o the week to ya! -Whitley

Well, hello, Living in Yellowers! How do you do?

Hello Friends of Living in Yellow! This month I am a sponsor for one of the most fun blogs written by one of the most fun gals I (cyber) know, Erin at Living in Yellow.

For those of you who are new to my blog, please allow me to introduce myself. My name is Whitley, and I am so delighted to be here today.

I am a wife, mother to two boys ages four and one years of age, and a recent retiree, (well at least for now). Here I am getting a little help from my boys, Hank and Worth, as I blow out the candle on my 35th birthday slice this past weekend.

While I have loved every second of every day with them, shortly into my new occupation of Stay-At-Home-Mom, I started feeling the itch, just as I suspected.

SO, I scratched.

And...

I started renovating furniture.

Making baby Worth's room a BOY room (finally),  since we did not know his gender prior to his arrival.

Making all of the accessories for Worth's room.

Repairing mirrors.

Turning vases into lamps.

Rearranging every room in my house five times over and then again.

Etc...etc...etc.

I submitted an article to Lucky magazine about my Grandmother and Great Grandmother.

Lucky ran the story in their December issue, and I was over the moon.

The next morning I sat straight up in bed and said, "I know what I need to do.  I'll write a blog!" It's been almost five months. I haven't looked back.  I haven't slept a wink.  I love it. Well, writing the blog, not the not sleeping part.

Oh, how I wish this were me. I'm obsessed with vintage fashion,  and I am super lucky to have inherited so many fabulous pieces that belonged to my Grand mother and Great Grandmother.

Anyone love the flashy and fabulous 80's as much as I do?

An original Mr. Blackwell dress and cape!

My 'Elvis Presley' Belt

My favorite winter coat.

A Pendleton classic. At the Queen City Style, I write about, as the bi-line states, all things stylish in the Queen City and beyond. Fashion, Home Design, Entertaining, DIY...

Anything I deem stylish.

I love to play dress up, and the Queen City Style is my platform!

One other thing I love is hearing what makes other people excited. And, I would L.O.V.E nothing more than hearing what is most stylish to you!

Blog

Facebook

Twitter

Pinterest

For the love of making new friends, in great style... love... Whitley

It's My Party!

Hello Blog Besties!

I had my usual Fashion Friday post all ready to go, 

but I came up with this little blog post diversion on my run today.

Perhaps I threw you off a little by the post title, but please hold the tissue box out for me 'cause It's my party, I can cry if I want to! Yep, today is my birthday!  Woot! Woot!  Yipppeeee!  Wahoo!  

I'd break it down for you with my best MC Hammer if I could. Or better yet, just be glad I don't have Stevie Nicks rockin' 'Stand Back' or Madonna chanting 'Holiday' through your monitor, because you might actually be reaching for the Kleenex out of tears of jealousy laughter.

Just a little tap tap tap for you.

Cindy Lauper meets Punky Brewster meets Madonna Wannabe plus Footloose and Flash Dance obsessed (even though my mama yanked me and my innocent eyes  from the theatre 30 minutes into the former) means how freaking fantastic were the 80's?

Today I am....

plus

years old.

If you put those two together, and it came out to be...

Image

Via

...then you are worse at math then I am, which actually works in your favor, because I hate math, so now I like you even more than I already did!

You are close. I'm 18! How did you know?! Okay, just kidding.  I'm 28.

Oh goodness.

Most wonderful man in the world, my boys and I headed over to Bad Daddy's (formerly Big Daddy's) for a little pre-birthday fun.

This picture is a favorite of my mom's, so I couldn't help a little reenactment.

I felt a little silly, but I am, so it's all good. Most wonderful man kept reinforcing how silly I felt, by saying how silly I looked, so then he said to "do that sexy pose you always do". Really?  This is the most unsexy thing IN THE WORLD. Whatevs.  All in the name of a little birthday fun!

PS- those of you who know me well...

That is Jon's chicken sandwich being used as a prop. Anyway, it isn't that hard for me to incorporate great fashion into a post any day of the week, but since it IS Friday, what a opportunistic time for me to share with you some lovely things I wish for on my birthday.

Image Via.

Really, I'd giddily take a whole stack of em, like the ones I recently showed you from summerbird.

Hermes Scarves

It's no secret, I'm all about the head scarf these days. It's the ultimate accessory.

But I'd likely do this with it...

I love it so, and I would want to see it on display everyday. Any Hermes scarf will do.  

I chose the one I did, since I think it would pair nicely with the new colors of my living room. I can't wait to share it all with you, but here's a glimpse.

Oh yes.  Me likey.

A few other pretty little things I'd enjoy having around the house.

I'd give my right arm for either one of these to adorn me.  

It's so hard with jewelry.  My list is about a zillion miles long.

Rachel Zoe's entire jewelry collection would be the quickest way to get my fix. That dress pretty much kills me too.

I borrowed from a friend a similar pair of Blinde sunglasses for the recent mega Trunk Show post, and now I am dying for my own.  So awesome.

How about a space as fabulous as one of these to play home to it all?

This wallpaper for my foyer.

And this for the hall bath.

Bright curtains to go with my new living room.

I'm leaning toward yellow and love these.

A fun rug for the dining room.

Although we pretty much could use rugs throughout the house.  

Here are a few more I love.  

This bad boy is new at Ikea.  Can you believe?!

And perhaps most of all, a lovely bedroom inducing nothing but a good night's sleep and sweet dreams.

And, of course, a pair of fabulous night stands to flank.

Oh Pinterest. The most fun time suck I've ever known. If you're on Pinterest, please come see me. On the topic of sleep, it's time for me to say night night. But before I go, I reflect on so much richness that exists in my life. I've got most wonderful man in the world.

Precious Peanut #1

Precious Peanut #2

A wonderful family.

The North Carolina Tar Heels.

I thank God for these...

...allowing me to do this.

And, even though I feel I've been a bit removed for the last year, since the arrival of Precious Peanut #2, I've still got these...

Not really bad shots.  The best girl friends for which a girl could ask.

So grateful for it all. Welcome 35! We are going to have fun!

Thank you to each and everyone one of you reading. This blog has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life, and I am grateful for your eyes and the support of every single one of you.

For the love of welcoming a new year in the very best style, Whitley

I Did It! And, it's the Consignment Sale of the Century!

Hello! I hope everyone is having a wonderful weekend! Thank you so much for all the texts, calls, Facebook messages, Everything!! Your support means so much!

It was an interesting morning for us. Yesterday, Hank and Worth posted fevers of 103 and 102, respectively. And, this morning, Hank vomited twice in the car on the way to the race and again back at the house. I was sure after each water stop, it would be my turn. So far, most wonderful man in the world and I have not had been called for meetings in the oval office, but I am holding my breath. Otherwise, race conditions were perfect with a cool but sunny day. I finished with a PR, so I am happy! Here's a shot at mile 6, Hanky ready with the High Five. I love it!

Coming down the pipeline for the finish.

And a family shot, just before baby Worth went tumbling forehead first down the cement stairs.

Thank you, again, for all the LOVE.  I was definitely feeling it!

Now, on to the FUN part...

For those of you in the Queen City who love to shop, you are in for a real treat this week. And, if you love to shop AND save, then you could say this is a Double Whammy!

In case you haven't been to a Green Jeans Consignment Sale, you are in for a real treat. Green Jeans Consignment is a semi-annual, 3-day women's shopping event that attracts up to 400 consignors and over 1,000 shoppers each season. Organized by a pair of adorable, stylish sisters, Green Jeans Consignment features new and gently worn brand name and designer clothing, shoes and accessories from petite to plus sizes, as well as maternity jeans.

What you can expect to see there is a host of designer labels including Trina Turk, Seven for all Mankind, Dooney and Burke, Kate Spade and Coach, as well as everyday favorites like Banana Republic, J.  Crew, LOFT, Clarks and even Birkenstock.

There is something for everyone!

Now, we all know that the proof is in the pudding, but here's a little sample to whet your shopping appetite. (How's about my TWO catch phrases?!  Whoa, I'm so clever.)

Coach Straw Bag

Designer Denim Galore!

Red Gucci Sandals

Donald J. Pliner Booties

Gold Rivet Embellishment Dress

New Coach Scarves.  Tags and All!

VALENTINO Black Satin Kitten Pumps

Do you know that Valentino is of my top three fav designers in the whole wide world?

Would you rather SELL than Shop?

As a Green Jeans Consignor, you earn 65% of your sales with the potential to earn up to 75% by volunteering during the event. The ladies of the Green Jeans make consigning easy and fun.  After prepping your items for sale, all you do is drop them off, and you will receive a check within TWO weeks of the sale. So, feeling kinda hungry?

Here's the scoop....

Lake Norman Green Jeans Consignment Event

Thursday, March 15 - Saturday, March 17

17105 Kenton Drive, Cornelius

Behind Birkdale Village & Near Brusters Ice Cream

Fort Mill, SC Green Jeans Consignment Event

Thursday, March 22 - Saturday, March 24

The Broadcast Group Complex

1400 Convention Drive, Fort Mill, SC

Located behind Regent Park

(Follow Regent Pkwy. 2.6 miles from Hwy 21 S)

Shopper Hours – 3 Days ONLY!

Thursday    9am-8pm

Friday   9am-6pm

Saturday  8am-3pm (Most Items Half Price)

Want to be a WINNER and shop before everyone else?

Check back tomorrow, and I'll tell you how you can win a pair of VIP Pre-Sale Passes to the Green Jeans event of your choice!

For the love of shopping in great style at an oh-so-great price....

Thank you for the LOVE, xo - Whitley