Bright Colors…a la Color Wheel

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It’s another bright day here and I’m enjoying the milder temps and sunny days! I took a hint from my color wheel and assembled today’s outfit.

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I started with a new Kate Spade skirt I bought off of eBAY. It was a steal and is the most beautiful shade of pink. The blue top really picked up the blue undertones in the pink skirt and I am as bright as a Christmas ornament!

As I’m wearing the outfit at work, I toned down the brightness by adding a tailored denim jacket and added a statement necklace. Voila!

Remember – Every day is a fashion show and the World is your runway…

Cortneybre…

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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!

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Lace, Silk & Ruffles…A Beautiful Ensemble

I must share the beautiful, light pink, silk, pleated Banana Republic skirt which I recently found on eBay.  I was so excited when I won it for $19.99!  What a bargain!  I had no idea the skirt would be so beautiful and I literally gasped when I pulled it out of its wrapping.  It’s a wonderful, pale pink with just the right amount of shimmer.

I paired the skirt with a white blouse with ruffled sleeves and a black and nude lace jacket.  The result was a riche and delicate look which was just informal enough for work and could easily transition to an evening dinner look.   “I feel pretty, oh, so pretty…I feel pretty, and witty and bright!”  Cortneybre…

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The Battle of the Kate Spade Belt…

Several months ago I bought the perfect belt.  In fact, for me, it was the Holy Grail of belts.  The heavens parted, birds sang and a soft golden glow emanated from its clasp.  And I found it on sale…ahhhAHHHahhhh…

Enter a bright pink, leather bow belt by Kate Spade.  (See, told you it was intimidating).

After I brought my purchase home, I soon realized the sad truth – no outfit was good enough for this belt.  After several failed attempts, where I removed the belt in exasperation as I headed out the door to start my day, I started to feel as if I would never wear this fabulous find.

I tried the belt with everything but to no avail.  Defeated, I hung my head as I hung the belt up in my closet.  Week after week, I stared longingly at the belt, hanging in my closet with its promises of Kate Spade happiness galloping just out of my grasp.

I finally realized the sad and ridiculous truth – this belt had gotten the best of me.  It had psyched me out, intimidated me, said in its snotty little voice “You can’t wear ME with that” and I wasn’t gonna take it anymore!

So last night I resigned myself to stand up like the fasionista that I am and find something suitable for this…this…accessory!

And so I did find a nice neutral black skirt and blouse to pair with it.  I think the outfit works.  I’ve even gotten several compliments on my ensemble today.

One of the hardest fashion battles I’ve faced has come to an end and victory looks divine.

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