50 Shades of Style

Fashion advice

Cabi Spring 2020 Collection Ambassador!

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I am so excited to share with you that I am a cabi Ambassador for Spring 2020!

This first ensemble screams spring!  For an effortless look, I paired their Drama Skirt with the Thespian Blouse for the perfect matching set. That is one of the great things about cabi is they make fashion easy and stylish.

For those of you who might not be familiar with cabi : they are an 18 year old, company known for its one-of-a-kind fashion experience.  What I love about cabi is they were created “by women for women.”  There are approximately 3,000 cabi stylists across the U.S., Canada and the U.K. that offer their clients personalized styling services.

How it works is you shop cabi, thru a personal styling appointment online where they can put you in touch with a cabi stylist in your area, or at a Fashion Experience which are also known as trunk shows.  Stay tuned for a future Blog Post where I will be taking you with me on a Fashion Experience with a cabi stylist.

 

 

Now let’s get down to the good stuff….The Spring 2020 cabi Collection!  “Spring is a time for renewal and growth, so let’s apply this to your wardrobe.”  As you can see in this next look I kept the Thespian Blouse and added the Grace Trouser and Blazer.  These contemporary  cropped pencil leg trousers are on trend and giving my wardrobe a breath of fresh air.

 

Not only does cabi offer amazing pieces of clothing, but they also have fabulous shoes and accessories.  “They say history repeats itself” – and cabi is bringing back a few “beloved vintage styles.”  These Bow Kitten Heels as shown in the photo above are the perfect example! From the kitten heel to the adorable striped bow detail, this shoe will definitely elevate any look.

I look forward to sharing with you my love of cabi’s Spring 2020 Collection over the next few months.

 

 

My new favorite accessory – Peepers!!

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One thing you must know about me when it comes to fashion is,  accessories are ALWAYS the star of my looks!!  I believe that when it comes to choosing accessories, they allow you to bring out your personality and uniqueness.  What comes to mind when I say the word Accessories?  Most likely you are thinking, a great pair of shoes, or an amazing statement necklace, a wonderful structured handbag right????  Well, I want to add one more important item that I bet NEVER entered your mind……….a fabulous pair of EYEGLASSES!  Think about it, if you wear glasses they are most likely the first thing that people see when they look at you.  So, why not make them take a ‘second look’ by wearing the most fabulous brand of eyewear I have found!  Peepers by peeperspecs!

Where do I even start with all the things I love about Peepers?!  They are so fashion forward with such a unique selection of frames and colors, I actually am more excited about choosing which pair I want to wear with each outfit than anything else.  When you see and feel the quality of their frames, you will be amazed when you find out how much they cost!!!  Their average pair range around $25 which makes me even more excited to share them with you.  Here are some of my favorite pairs that I think you will love.

 

 

 

Lets start with these fabulous and bold Bravado (Blue Light) fames in black.  If these don’t make a statement I don’t know what can.  I love that they come with Blue Light protection, since so many of us spend countless hours in front of a screen.  It is no surprise this pair was chosen as one of Oprah’s New Favorite Frames for 2019!!  They come in a variety of colors and you can even order them with no correction if you just want to use them as a fashion statement!!!

 

 

These Coffee Shop frames in Tortoise Wood were another pair that I knew I needed to have.  Between the oversized thick frames and the contrast of recycled bamboo arms, they will certainly cause you to stand out!  These come in several other color combinations that you are sure to love.

 

These ‘eye catching’ Center Stage Focus frames, shown above in Navy Tortoise, are listed as not only Peepers most popular frames, but also as one of Oprah’s Favorite Things!  These frames also offer their Focus Blue Light protection from harmful side effects that come from our computer and phone screens.  They also come in six other amazing color ways and trust me I will be going back for several more colors.

Last but not least, I am wearing these gorgeous Limelight frames in Gray Tortoise.  This pair gave me a fun animal print vibe when I saw them.  All eyes will be on you in this polished style that suits all face shapes.  They also include  Blue Light protection and comes in four other colorways that will compliment any skin tone.  You can see why these also made Oprah’s Favorite Things list as it did mine!

I can’t say enough great things about Peepers and I feel super confident recommending any of their fashion forward frames for you to purchase for yourself or as a gift.  The fact that they are so affordable makes me love them even more.  Lets face it, if you are like me we sometimes misplace our readers (does that come with age)lol, but seriously, as affordable as they are, you can buy several pairs to leave around the house in case of a mishap.

Now you understand why Peepers is now my New favorite accessory and hopefully it will be yours too!

XO

 

 

Wooden Ship Knits- Fall in love!

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I want to share with you an amazing eco-friendly company that is passionate about providing high quality products to their customers with really unique sweaters that I have fallen in love with!  Meet Wooden Ships.

They are family owned and operated company that started 25 years ago.  The amazing founders, Paola and Mark are passionate about taking care of the planet and giving back.  Read more about them and their mission here .

Let me start with this adorable fox sweater , that is absolutely perfect for fall.  I styled it with a pair of dark denim and a pair of fabulous orange suede booties.  (I have linked a similar pair below). I kept it classic, easy and received so many compliments on my look that day.

 

My other absolute favorite is this cozy cropped ‘ride sweater’ .  I styled this sweater with a pair of black denim along with a pair of combat boots to give it a little edge.  Don’t be afraid to pair the sweater with something as simple as a pair of black leggings and throw a pair of ‘over the knee boots’ to complete your look.

 

I can’t say enough about the quality and fit of these sweaters.  For me when shopping for sweaters it is all about the material.  Wooden Ships knits are cozy, and soft on the skin and they have the most adorable designs.  Be sure to check them out and leave a comment below and let me know which one is your favorite.

 

XO

 

 

Still ‘WILD’ about Peach!

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A while back I introduced you all to my favorite activewear line Peach ! I am here to say that they are still my #1 go to for athleisure wear but also amazing wardrobe Fall and Winter wardrobe staples with the launch of their new Autumn 19 Collection ‘Into the Wild’ !

Let’s start off with this fabulous look that to me fall under athleisure wear AND also casual chic style!  I am wearing their Kora Pullover in this rich color Garnet (size S).   The satin detailing along the sides is gorgeous and the fit is a relaxed fit.  I sized up one size to give me a bit more length for wearing with leggings.  And speaking of leggings, can we just please talk about these FABULOUS Nina Leggings also in Garnet! (Size XS). These are beyond show stopping, with their leather-like front they will truly elevate any look!  I love wearing these pieces together, but they totally stand on their own.  Both pieces come in other colors but I highly suggest the garnet color as I promise you will get heads to turn in this beautiful rich color!

Now, to demonstrate my comment about how Peach is now my ‘go to’ for wardrobe staples, this amazing Mara Moto Jacket (sz XS) is from their new Autumn Collection!  I selected this beautiful Khaki color, but it also comes in a beautiful shade of olive.  This jacket is made of a stretch vegan suede, and has fabulous silver hardware details.  You won’t believe the best part of this jacket…….wait for it……..it is MACHINE WASHABLE!!  I promise this piece will be on major repeat for me all Fall and Winter!

I might have saved the best for last!  You all know much I love wearing dresses, and this gorgeous Marula Dress in black (sz XS)  jumped off the page for me and I knew I needed it in my closet ASAP!  It is the absolute perfect combination of Chic and Comfy!  The fabric is a French terry with polished satin details along the sides which elevates this dress to the nines!!!  I love it paired here with snakeskin boots, but I also can’t wait to style it with some fun sneakers for an edgy street style look.

You all know that I only share what I love and would wear myself and I am so honored to be a Peach Ambassador.  I am so impressed with all the pieces that I own from them and I give them the highest recommendation.  Make sure to check out this Autumn 19 Collection and don’t hesitate on ordering as their pieces tend to go fast as they are truly the ULTIMATE in style and quality.

 

XO

 

How to look ‘Slimsational’!

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I am super excited to introduce you all to SlimSation , a women’s clothing line that offers a ‘state of the art’ flexible tummy control panel in every piece of clothing they offer!  (Can I get an Amen)!  I was so excited then they contacted me to ask if I would like to try out a pair of their pants to see how I like them and share them with you all!  I didn’t hesitate for a second and was so excited for their arrival!!

 

I selected their Knit Ankle Pant in black and I am wearing a size 2 (which is the smallest size they offer).  I would recommend sizing down one size in this style pant, as I usually wear a size 0 and I had ample room in the fit.   They are a pull on ankle pant with hem vent &their amazing tummy panel (Yay)!  I am obsessed with their fabric as it is still in the high 90’s here in Florida, and they are so breezy and cool to wear.  Oh, and the best part is the range of sizes they offer in their pants, from size 2 to size 24w!  Fabulous!!

As you can see in the above image everything you are going to achieve when ordering one of their amazing selections of pants!  I can’t recommend SlimSation enough, and I highly encourage you to try a pair!  Who doesn’t want to look 10 pounds lighter and at the same time look so classic and chic!  Thank you so much Slimsation for letting me share the ‘Good News’ to my friends here at 50 Shades of Style!

 

XO

Five ways to wear leopard!!

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I have to say I am SUPER EXCITED about today’s blog post!  Why do you ask?………….Because I love to incorporate leopard when I can in my outfits!

There are so many ways to do this, from ALL OUT to just a subtle touch.  So, depending where you fall in this category, let me show you some examples of how to accomplish this, starting with ‘just a sprinkle’!

#1.  Hair Accessories

Since leopard is the rage right now, you can find some really fun hair accessory pieces and sprinkle it in this way to get your feet wet.  🙂  Whether you select a fun headband like I am wearing or a scarf, or leopard scrunchie, that would be the easiest way to start!

 

#2.  Add a leopard purse OR shoe

First of all notice I said add a leopard purse OR shoe, not BOTH!!  That would be too much!  Look how each look pictured above because that much more interesting by adding a leopard print to the mix.  Super easy to do right?  Make sure to scroll down to the bottom of this article when you are finished reading to see all these great pieces that you can shop directly from here.  🙂

3.  Add a fun leopard skirt

This is probably my most favorite way to add leopard, a leopard skirt!  Whether it is a pencil or a maxi skirt, this is the look I love to style the most.  Just add one of your favorite graphic tees, and you have the perfect ‘casual chic’ look, and you will be the envy of all your girlfriends (trust me)! 🙂

 

#4.  Add a great leopard jacket

So, hopefully I have gotten you excited about what a game changer adding leopard to your look can be!  Are you feeling a bit more comfortable about stepping up your leopard game?!  If so, let’s add a leopard jacket to the mix!  This is really a simple formula (don’t be scared) just start with something all black, like in this example above I am wearing a fun black jumpsuit (notice I am wearing black shoes too) providing the perfect canvas to introduce an amazing jacket!!  (p.s. I will have some good ones linked at the end of this article for you) Trust me on this one, add a great jacket (like above) to your wardrobe to add an amazing impact to your ‘style game’!

 

#5.  Add an all leopard piece

Yes!  We graduated all the way to wearing an ALL LEOPARD for the main course!!!  What do you think?  It looks really great right?  Not too much right?!  Whether it is an all leopard dress (as seen above) or a maxi dress, or a jumpsuit, you will look like you walked right off the cover of your favorite fashion magazine!  But, there are a few rules you need to follow to pull of this look.  1.  Keep the accessories very subtle.  No, wild earrings, shoes, or purse.  In the photo above, notice you can’t even really see my earrings (I am wearing gold hoops BTW) and my purse if solid black.  This is really important to follow along, also notice my shoes are really toned down.  The 2nd rule to pulling this off is really simple, BE CONFIDENT!

I promise you can pull this all leopard look off, but you need to ‘feel the part’ to ‘look the part’, so hold your head up high when you walk into the room looking like the million bucks that I know you are!!!

 

 

 

 

How to wear denim on denim!

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One of my favorite looks to style is wearing denim on denim!  Have you ever tried it?  Well, I hope after reading this post, you will be excited to give it a try.  So, let’s start with something easy yet very chic.

So, if you want to play it safe, there is nothing better than a great all denim dress.  When the temps are rising in the summer, a classic shift dress works perfectly and can be worn to a number of occasions.  This particular dress shown above is a darker wash, lightweight denim and I think it is perfect for brunch, a work function and even church.  The fact that it is a dark wash really makes the difference I believe, in why it works for a dressier daytime event.  When it comes to accessorizing dark denim, my suggestion is keep the purse and the bag light. (especially in the summer).  You can see, I chose neutral tones, in all of my accessories above and it creates a really nice blend.

 

Next, we are going to pair two  denim pieces together and create an outfit.  It might sound like too much, and that you couldn’t see yourself doing it, but I hope from seeing the look above, you see that it looks great!  I started with this great midi-length denim skirt, and added a slightly lighter shade chambray top.  Yes, they are right next to each other and it works perfectly.  In fact, I think it looks very chic, and I bet you your friends will tell you how much they LOVE your outfit when you try this!!  Once again, I kept the accessories, light, and in this case, added fun bright colors.  They work perfectly together, as you want your denim pieces to be the canvas for these colors to work off of.  Am I winning you over yet?   Okay, let’s keep moving.

 

Okay, this is basically a play off of the last denim on denim skirt I showed you previously, but now we are going to take this look ‘on the town’!!  So, we are starting with this adorable denim frayed skirt, took the same top as previously shown, (which is also a little bit of a lighter wash than the skirt) and now we are going to take this up a notch!  How do we do that?  We do it with the accessories, which you all know I believe are the ‘star’ of any look!  So, since we are wanting this to be a ‘fun night out’ look, we need to add some amazing shoes and a gorgeous bag.  I would say we hit a ‘home run’ with these multi-colored snakeskin booties and this rich colored velvet bag!  Can you see how that totally changed everything!!  Pretty easy formula wouldn’t you say?

 

Lastly, I want to show you that you can mix you denim with other colored denim!  Now, don’t go crazy with this.  I would just keep it monochromatic for the most part and have your one piece be the different color.  It is really important to keep your shoes black as well, to achieve this affect.  So, in this example we are taking an all black denim look and adding the blue denim jacket as the ‘pop’ and focal piece of this look.   Do you see how your eye gravitates towards the denim jacket?  This trick really will set up apart and you should feel very proud of yourself for pulling off such a chic look.

I hope these examples gave you the confidence to put together your ‘own’ denim on denim looks and I would love to hear from you how you did and most importantly all the great comments that you are going to get!

xoxo

One Outfit Styled Two Ways

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Since I love fashion and shopping SO MUCH (who doesn’t)?  I have learned to be pretty good at getting the most BANG out of my buck by learning how to take one outfit and styling it two ways, that works for different occasions.

It actually is a really good way to think when you are out shopping.  You need to ask yourself, will I really get some good wear out of this, and would I be able to change it up just a bit, and take it from day to night?

I am excited to show you three different outfits, styled exactly that way.  Day to Night!  So, here we go…………..

 

First up is Athleisure-

Athleisure Day Outfit

Here I have an example of a fun Athleisure outfit that works perfect for daytime.  Whether I need to run errands or meet a girlfriend at Starbucks, I am feeling comfy and chic in this oversized sweatshirt and fun leggings.  Notice the accessories in this outfit (because those are the things I am going to change out to take this into night)!  This fun cross body bag and leopard sneakers add the right touch and pops this outfit just perfectly!

 

Athleisure Outfit for Night

So, notice here how I took the same exact outfit (oversized sweatshirt and leggings) and just added a sleek pair of mules, a fun studded black bag and this amazing black bolero hat!  Now, I am ready to hit the town, whether it is meeting my husband for a date night, or having a girls night out for dinner.  Either way, I am feeling chic, dressy and most of all comfortable!!

 

Example #2 –  Cropped Pants and Blouse Option – Daytime

Cropped Pants and Blouse- Day Outfit

For this outfit which consists of these amazing herringbone cropped pants and fun red Versace inspired blouse, I am styling this for day by choosing the right accessories.  These silver oxford lace up shoes are just the right touch to take this outfit out for a business appointment, luncheon or a fun day of shopping.  I grabbed this clear lucite with black accent tote bag which also adds the right feel for daytime.  Once again, I think this looks daytime chic and also bonus points for it being comfy (with these great oxford flats)!

 

Cropped Pants & Blouse Nighttime Version

Once again, you will see  I just changed out my accessories, adding these sleek black mules (yes, they are one of my favorites), changed out my tote for a fun dressier shoulder bag and grabbed a great pair of sunglasses for the perfect look to head out for an early dinner with friends.  (It really is that easy to do to achieve a different look).

 

Example #3 – Taking an outfit from Desk to Dinner

Blazer and palazzo pants- Office Attire

In this last example, I wanted to show those of you who wear work attire, how easy it is to take this perfect outfit for work and just carry with you a change of shoes, bag and jewelry to swap out when the clock hits 5 o’clock.   I love this particular combo that I put together consisting of this stunning white blazer (which btw we all need to have in our wardrobe) a great grey tank, and these amazing floral palazzo pants!!!! (Obsessed)!  I accessorized this day look with these great suede flats and this white leather bag with fun gold hardware.  I finished it off with some great hoop earrings and a pretty  gold necklace.  So chic for work wouldn’t you say??!!

Work outfit – Styled for a Night on the Town!

So, the clock hits 5pm and all you have to do is take off your jacket, reach into your bottom desk drawer and pull out these gold suede platform mules, the fun leopard clutch (always remember, leopard is a neutral), and these amazing rose gold statement earrings and you are ready to get in your car to head out to meet your significant other (or the girls) either way they will gasp when they see you!!  I mean how easy was that??!!!

I hope this article was helpful to you, and by giving you these examples you will now be able to take some existing pieces already in your wardrobe and use this same formula I gave you to go from day to night!!!

xoxo,

Kelley