50 Shades of Style

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Cabi Spring Style Statements

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I am back again with another blog about one of my favorite brands cabi!!! 

Today I am excited to share with you my take on a capsule wardrobe I created using 15 pieces from cabi’s spring 2020 line. What is a “capsule wardrobe” you ask? 

A capsule wardrobe is made up of a few essential items of clothing that will not go out of style; which then can be augmented with seasonal pieces. It includes everything from outerwear, tops, pants, shoes and accessories!  

Using the 15 pieces from cabi I created what I like to call a  “chic” capsule wardrobe that breaks down into 3 different categories of “chic” creating a total of 9 different looks. The first mini capsule I want to share with you is what I dubbed “Spring Chic” let’s take a look…

 “Spring Chic” Mini Capsule Wardrobe 

Look 1

The base of this look is the Grace Trouser  A pair of high rise, cropped length, pencil leg shape pants. This is a great work pant and fabulous for a nice luncheon too! Then I added the The Handy Cami This elegantly simple cami puts a fun spin on a wardrobe staple with the flutter cap sleeve. I paired it with the gorgeous Shrimpton Scarf a great addition to any outfit and the styling options are endless! To complete this look I added the Siren Sandal – which has an ankle strap with a 2 inch block heel design done in this irresistible red skin print! Don’t be afraid to mix colors Navy, Pink and Red go beautifully together!

Look 2 

Again with the base being the Grace Trouser I paired it with the Go-To Button-Up  with a darling floating flower print against a navy background, this swingy, oversized blouse will leave you feeling easy & breezy. You can dress this blouse up or down, stay tuned for other ways I styled this scarf! To finish off this look I added the Bow Kitten Heel – Slip right into a high-fashion shoe, minus the high heel for a dressed up look that saves your feet! 

Look 3 

Starting again with the lovely Grace Trouser I am wearing The Handy Cami underneath this gorgeous  Headline Topper  this is a fun multi-stripe pattern and easy shape jacket! It features a printed lining and matching buttons that are unique to each jacket. Hit the headlines in this unique piece! I ended up pairing this look with the Bow Kitten Heel because beauty is not always pain, these heels are proof! 

“Classic Chic” Mini Capsule Wardrobe

Look 1

The base of this next mini capsule is the Cinch Skinny white jeans. Everybody needs a pair of white jeans in their wardrobe! Fear not, these jeans are opaque enough for full coverage, yet light enough for the warm weather – just one reason why they are the perfect addittion to your wardrobe! I then paired the cinch skinny jeans and the Bow Kitten Heels with the Reef Knot Blouse – perfect for summer with its nautical rope and anchor print! I topped it off with the Harbor Jacket – This playful topper hits at the high hip and has a boxy shape. The drawstring tie at the waist will cinch you in for a flattering finish.

Look 2

The base of this look is the Cinch Skinny jeans along with the versatile Handy Cami and the gorgeous and comfy Siren Sandal. Remember the Shrimpton Scarf and the endless ways you can style this? I decided to use it as a belt this time! How cute right? Perfect for date night!

Look 3

Starting with the Cinch Skinny  jean I added the Go-To Button-Up blouse, but this time I didn’t tuck in. Instead, I left a few of the bottom buttons undone and tied it into a cute little knot. A simple style edit like this can change an entire look. It can take it from dressed up to casual in a snap! To complete this look I added the Bow Kitten Heel I love a good bow! 

“Sporty Chic” Mini Capsule Wardrobe

Look 1

The base of this look is the Spotted Jogger – Let me say Leopard Print will ALWAYS be on trend! These joggers are done in a slouchy jogger cut with a cuffed hem. Making them the perfect pair of lounge pants to take from day to night by just simply changing your shoes and accessories. For the first look of 3 I kept it real simple and added the Fold Pocket Tee – A classic white tee should be a staple in every woman’s wardrobe. This Tee has an origami pocket detail with a V-neckline and a high-low hem. I did a half tuck and finished it off with a pair of tennis shoes! 

Look 2 

I started with the Spotted Jogger but instead of going with a lounge wear look I wanted to create more of an edgy, street style look. So I added the All-Purpose Cami – This cami truly lives up to its name. Done in a sleek black with a lace overlay at the neckline, it offers enough coverage to be worn alone and can also be layered underneath your favorite sweater. To make this look edgy instead of adding tennis shoes or flats I added a pair of black patent leather heels and some simple jewelry. (Not pictured), But a great idea…you could add a jean or motto jacket to finish it all off! 

Look 3

This last and final look is great for traveling in fact the Spotted Jogger is the ultimate pair of travel pants! I paired it with the Fold Pocket Tee and my tennis shoes. To top it off I added the Cropped Cable Pullover –  This ultra-lightweight sweater features a boxy, cropped design, perfect for layering over your favorite tanks and tees. The neutral tone is ideal for easy pairing. It’s a great addition when you need to add a layer when chilly…perfect for traveling! I love to front tuck so that is the style edit I made to complete this look.

There you have it 9 different looks using 15 pieces from cabi’s Spring 2020 Collection to help make your “Chic Capsule Wardrobe.”   Be sure to check out my instagram today for an IGTV video I did featuring these 15 pieces.  Also, if interested please visit cabi to find a stylist to help get you started shopping!   

Xo, 

Kelley 

 

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

 

 

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

Labor Day Beach Essentials!

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It is hard to believe that Summer is almost over!!!!  With that being said, I am looking forward to our annual Labor Day beach vacation for one last ‘Big Hurrah’ to Summer!  I thought it would be fun to share with you all a few of my ‘Beach Trip Essentials’  I am currently loving and taking with me!!

Let’s talk bathing suit, hat, and shorts!  This is how you will basically find me as I sit poolside (facing the ocean, under a huge umbrella)!  Yes, that is right, I am not a fan of getting sandy (don’t laugh) and I definitely am done with the days of ‘oiling up’ and tanning myself as golden as I could get!  No way, No more!!  I am in LOVE with this new bathing suit I found on Amazon, the quality and fit is AMAZING!!  I have always loved wearing cut-offs to the beach with my bathing suit.  These are my FAVORITE shorts!  They are the perfect length (gone are the days of short shorts) easy to get on and off, and if we decide to grab a quick bite to eat on the beach, I feel totally comfortable wearing them in the restaurant.  Probably the most important thing that I make sure I am ALWAYS wearing at the beach is a great hat!  Even when I am sitting under a huge umbrella, I always make sure I have a hat on to protect my face from getting sun!  This hat is the perfect size and I absolutely love its color and design!

 

Now let’s talk Beach Bag!!!  Oh, do I have an AMAZING one to share with you all from a company I just was introduced to, called Dewdrop Designs!  They are an American-made collection of lifestyle accessories that evoke a sense of wanderlust!  They have so many amazing themed bags, unique pieces of hand crafted jewelry and accessories.   I selected the Eat, Beach, Sleep, and Repeat Canvas and Leather Tote made from sturdy leather and recycled canvas!  I absolutely love it as it not only makes a great beach bag, but it also is a perfect ‘Getaway Bag’ and I am purchasing a few more as they make the perfect gift for that special person in your life.  My favorite thing that sets Dewdrop Designs apart are their monthly one of a kind sales!!  These sales are offered to their Dewdrop Design client email list, and they are all exclusive products that are not offered elsewhere! So, make sure to sign up to be a part of their email list so you benefit from these private monthly sales!

 

 

You can’t go to the beach without a great book can you?   I want to share with you all the book I am currently reading and is absolutely life changing for me!  ‘Fear is My Homeboy’ by Judi Holler.  I can’t say enough great things about this book.  I am a huge fan of personal development books and if this book doesn’t light a fire under you, I don’t know what will!  Promise me you will pick this book up and read it (you will thank me later)!

 

Well, that is it for now!  I hope you enjoy your Labor Day weekend and maybe grab a few of my favorites to take with you, as I know you will love them as much as I do!!

 

XO

 

 

 

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

 

Classic Black and White

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Classic Black & White Outfit www.50shadesofstyle.com

I believe there is nothing more classic (and simple) to put together than a black and white outfit.  I can’t tell you how many compliments I received when I ventured out today to run some errands around town.

The best part is how affordable these pieces are.  The top and the jeans are from Old Navy (one of my favorite places to shop for basic pieces for my wardrobe).  These black slides are by Steve Madden (purchased on sale from DSW) and this amazing fedora (sounds so fancy) is from……are you ready?????  Target!!!

So, the next time you are having a ‘moment’ and can’t figure out what to wear for the day, go for a tried and true black and white ensemble and watch how many compliments you will get too!