Chanel – Black & White & Just So Right …Inspired by Chanel

Who wouldn’t be inspired by Chanel?  It’s a name synonymous with classic style, effortless beauty and sophistication.

Image: 1stDibs.com
Image: 1stDibs.com

Today’s post is inspired by an image I saw on 1stDibs.com.  I typically do not buy white shoes but this pair of Chanel heels caught my eye and how I wish I could purchase them!  To me these shoes whisper of undiscovered alleyways in Paris and lingering kisses in the night air before tip toeing away into a chic hotel.  Inspiring indeed!  Au Revior!  Cortneybre…

Blouse: Worthington Skirt: DH Styles Shoes: Chanel Jacket: Monteau Jewelry: Bealles
Blouse: Worthington
Skirt: DH Styles
Shoes: Chanel
Jacket: Monteau
Jewelry: Bealles

Peppy in Peplum! {A Friday Favorite!}

I just love peplum tops and dresses!  They are instantly slimming and refined.  Today I have on double trouble peplum!  I have a peplum jacket paired with a striped peplum top underneath.  You would think this would be peppy overkill but it really just gave me a little more flounce, which is just fine.

Did you know that the term peplum is derived from the Greek word peplos meaning tunic or shawl?  It is described as a short overskirt that is usually attached to a fitted jacket, blouse or dress.  Essentially this makes your waist appear smaller and your hips fuller.

The peplum look was popular in the 1940’s and again in the 1980’s.  It is now considered a vintage look although I feel it can look quite modern depending on the fabric and the cut of the skirt.

I find that peplum tops are very versatile.  I can wear them with pencil skirts or full skirts as well as slacks or jeans.  Adding a belt to a peplum top can change the entire look of the outfit!  Also, as I’ve done today, don’t be afraid to layer your peplum top or dress with a peplum jacket!

As a tip, should you find yourself overeating at lunch or dinner during this bountiful Holiday season, the extra ruffle of the peplum skirt can hide a multitude of indiscretions – both past and present!

Peplum IIPeplum I

Live Life Colorfully…A Guide to Wearing Bright Colors…

It’s a rainy day here and very drab.  I was thinking about how “ugly” it was outside today when I picked my attire this morning.  I chose a bright (as in, don’t look directly at it for fear of blindness!) yellow jacket with a black and white striped skirt.  Why not wear something bright on a rainy (or in some cases snowy) day?  Bright colors are always so happy and eye catching yet many people shy away from them.  Here’s a little guide I use for choosing and wearing bright colors.

When in doubt choose one bright color:

As you become more comfortable, you can possibly add an accent color but when first adding color to your wardrobe, stick to simple.

Start with a bright blouse or shirt under a dark jacket:

A bright blouse will shine underneath a darker jacket.  This POP of color will brighten your wardrobe and your day! (as will the tons of compliments you receive!)

Be careful when wearing brightly colored jewelry with brightly colored clothes:

I see this very often, especially in summer.  Someone is sporting one color from head to toe and to top it off, a beautiful necklace (and maybe earrings) of the same hue.  Too much of a good thing is…uh… a bad thing.  When you wear too much of one color (bright or not) it appears overwhelming and the outfit loses focus.  Plus you can be identified as “the lady who wore that REALLY “insert bright color worn” outfit that day and caused everyone’s eyes to water”.  No one wants to be that lady.

 Pair a bright color with black and white patterns:

This is an instant hit!  No matter what the black and white pattern, you can typically wear it with ANY bright color and it looks great!  Browns and denims can also be used this way as they are neutrals.  Check out my look for today as I’ve used this rule and paired my yellow jacket with a black and white striped skirt!

If at all possible, wear bright red lipstick:

Ok…this is just my personal mantra but I do SO enjoy red lipstick.  And it often pairs wonderfully with bright colors!  Give it a try!

When you’re ready…add a compatible color:

This can be tricky but if you get it right, the result is a whole lotta awesome!  It may sound silly but you can use a color wheel to pick your wardrobe.  Here are the rules:

Pick colors that:

  • Are directly next to each other (example: yellow and orange or yellow and green)  OR
  • Form a right angle with each other (example: orange-yellow and red or red-orange and violet) OR
  • Directly across from each other (example: yellow and violet or orange and blue)

colorwheel

 

Live life colorfully, my friends!

Cortneybre…

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