October 23, 2014
by Julia DiNardo
Right now is the time to see the best that spring 2015 has to offer, thanks to a bevy of press previews I’ve been attending. I think I have a solid grasp on the trends that we are now expected to see, as well as the pieces that I can’t wait to buy; I have a feeling that you’re going to feel the same way. My time at
Lands’ End this week displayed great versatile pieces that range from cool b sweaters to the perfectly pleated skirt and buttery soft leather beige bucket bag.
Not surprisingly, the brand had some nautical selections in stripes and sea motifs, but also meticulously worked a floral print into shorts, bags and dresses, as well as came full force with a swim and athletic collection that practically defines “athleisure” while being multifunctional, providing UPF protection against the sun’s rays. See the slideshow above for my favorite looks, which also include great scarves, ballet flats, and jeans in two length options. Getting excited for spring yet? I sure am!
October 22, 2014
by Julia DiNardo

There’s no doubt that pearls have been experiencing quite the renaissance lately, being seen across all jewelry types and evening being reborn from a classic piece to something quite edgy! I’ve noticed that cuffs, mainly slender, have gained a pearl on each end, and this seems to be the latest, coolest, iteration of pearl jewelry. Personally, I really like this trend, as it has versatility in blending with bangles, cuffs, and bracelets both large and small, and gives you a sampling of pearls without over doing it. See my collage above for some of my favorites, and the links below for where to buy them.
From Clockwise:
Cookie Lee High Style Pearl Cuff
Vita Fede Double Crossed Bracelet
Tory Burch Glass Pearl Cuff Bracelet
Sole Society C-Shaped Pearl Bracelet
Majorica MultiColor Pearl Bracelet
October 20, 2014
by Julia DiNardo

[All photos taken by my hot date!]
Want to know my normal date night attire? It consists of some sort of Pittsburgh-related tshirt, and flannel pajama pants. Seriously. My husband and I tend to use date night as a super mellow night at home to hang out, cook together, and watch our show of the moment, so oftentimes I strip out of my day attire and into something more comfortable to lounge around in. Plus, I’m not devastated if a little oil from the pan splashes onto my clothing. On the contrary, however, it’s really good to switch up the routine, and recently at a Marshalls event, dating expert Tracey Steinberg told me that a nice switch up would be to stay (or get) dressed up. Such a simple idea, but it truly adds to making the night special and memorable.
If I we decide to go out and I want to go somewhere fabulous… I better dress the part! After being together for over 12 years, it’s easy to succumb to whatever is easiest, but making a little extra effort, as Tracy points out, can go a long way. I punched up my work look for date night by layering a faux fur vest over top of my leather jacket, switching out my stud earrings for hoops, and an oversized handbag for a clutch.
Several of the pieces in this look had been found at Marshalls, with all of them being designer items at AWESOME prices, that made me do a double check that I was seeing the tag correctly! It’s easy to give your look a little oomph and take a bit of a fashion risk when you aren’t spending a lot, but still getting the quality you deserve.
How do you spice up date night with fashion?


Continue reading…
October 17, 2014
by Julia DiNardo

As a new season rolls in, it comes as no surprise that essie has a FABULOUS array of hues for winter 2014. Meant to be an ample companion for your holiday parties and events, the six hues skew a bit festive, a bit classic, but all in all, will look shiny and superb on manicure digits. The six shades, from left to right are Tuck it in my Tux, Back in the Limo, Jiggle Hi, Jiggle Low, Bump up the Pumps, Double Breasted Jacket, and Jump in My Jumpsuit. All shades will become available in November of 2014, retailing for $8.50 and found at essie.com, fine salons, and beauty destinations nationwide.

Continue reading…