The Faux Dress

Whenever attending a special occasion or fashion event, I love to get all dolled up by wearing a dress.  We all know you can only wear an outfit so many times before feeling like it's been overexposed to the public eye.  Especially in the days where Instagram and Facebook are here to suggest to the world that your favorite dress is the only one you own.  My closet used to be overflowing with these dresses until I figured out this little trick. 

Lately, I love mixing and matching blouses and skirts to give the appearance that I am wearing a dress.  For example, I found a body suit and skirt that happen to match each other seamlessly.  However not every pairing you use needs to be the same color or fabric. 

Chartreuse

I pounced on this fringed top when I was in New York - the movement it gives off when I'm walking and the texture makes it super swank. I used chartreuse as a contrasting color (my shorts and clutch); it transforms the outfit into a spring time style . Also mixes it up from using my usual grey and black combo. 

Mixed Prints

I find it very entertaining to mix and match different patterns and materials to end up with a conglomerate of awesomeness. I started off with this Nine West A-line dress: worn by itself, it is classy and dainty, perfect to wear to a girls brunch or a spring time family gathering. 

Since my personal style is funky with a hint of rock n roll, what better way to make a lovely summer dress my own than to sprinkle spikes and studs all over it. I threw on an Akira crop, top that instantly turns the dress into a skirt, with shoulder cut outs that are lined with daunting spike.

This look is very attainable ladies! If you are going to wear an A-line or more of a flouncier dress, loose fitting crop tops seem to look better since they lay right on the waist line hem of the dress. I slid on my vintage BCBG boots to pull down the black all the way through to even out the color pattern, and topped it off with my Akira clutch that is also used my secret weapon. ;-)

Summer's Coming

 I'm yearning for the summer's warm breeze and the feeling of light silky fabrics that float in the air during an evening stroll while the setting sun kisses my skin intensely. Inhaling fresh air deeply and knowing that it isn't a dream during a dark desolate winter.

The cherished months we have all been waiting for are about to be amongst us where the days are longer and the nights are alive with buzzing energy. The excitement of each week dances in our minds as we outline adventures that only come this time of year.

It's almost here.

Styled: Jumpsuit two ways

Jumpsuits were basking in the lime light on the S/S 2013 runways and a versatile item that is a must have in your closet. If you are afraid to go out and buy one because you think you can't pull it off,  you can. 

Spring Tweed

Tweed is one of those classic fabrics that never seems to fade away no matter what new and exciting trend is among us. Its popularity catapulted thanks to Coco Chanel when she created the famous women's tweed jacket over 90 years ago. Ever since then it has been a staple item in many women's closet and  a prominent fabric for every season.

Beauty Talk: Morgan Marie Beauty

Source: Marcin Cymmer

I love discovering local designers, boutiques, makeup artists, you name it.  So, when I came across Chicago- based cosmetic line Morgan Marie Beauty, I was eager to test out their vitamin E enriched lipsticks and hear about their makeup tips and secrets to staying beautiful.

Morgan and Marie, two local beauty gurus who have been successful makeup artists for years, joined forces to create MMB last year.  Their goal is to make their clients feel beautiful and glowing with their makeup services or cosmetic and makeup brush line.  What woman doesn't want to feel pampered?

Their lipstick and lip gloss line features high vibrancy colors that will give life to any look this spring and summer.  I personally love wearing a bright lipstick with minimal face coverage and no eye makeup for a night out.  It is simple, chic and brings attention to a nice smile. Shop their line here!