My Arthritis Today Cover Party

Happy Friday! I am so, so, so excited to finally share my Arthritis Today cover release party with you. Around 50 of my closest friends and family (my mom flew in from Wisconsin) came to celebrate with me. It truly was a night to remember. I mean, it isn't everyday you are on the cover of a magazine!

  

The party took place at one of my favorite restaurants, Américas, in River Oaks. They have the most stunning, unique decor, as well as a fun 'Pan Latin' menu. They also have several private event spaces, which was perfect for my intimate party. Not to mention the entire staff was incredibly accommodating, and made party planning a blast.   

The menu for the evening consisted of their signature plantain chips and salsa, ceviche and plantain crusted chicken. I've always been a firm believer that finger food is a must for any cocktail party, but that you need to always keep it simple. Paired with champagne and wine, how can you go wrong?

 The most important part of any party is planning the perfect outfit. Luckily I didn't have to look far because I have some amazing and talented friends. My beautiful dress is by local designer, Chasity Sereal, and my statement necklace was made by the talented Jessie Dugan. 

The firey red dress, and bold statement necklace not only complemented the space, but also the cover of the magazine - a true match made in #girlboss heaven. It was topped off with amazing hair and makeup by my girl, Sara of Cara Dulce Makeup. She literally makes my beauty dreams come true. 

My amazing friend Holly from Vera Bradley sent cosmetic cases for the goody bags. Yes, I had to have goody bags - doesn't every good party?! ha. The goody bags were also filled with a gift card from my wonderful friends at Trina Turk, as well as passion fruit and blood orange dark chocolates from local chocolate maker, Macaw Confections. 

Lilian, from Macaw Confections also made the fabulous 3D chocolates that had my name on them. I had no idea that chocolate could be a work of art! It really added to the theme of the night, not to mention they were the perfect sweet treat....almost too good to eat!  

My good friend Ludgier, owner of RAV Technologies did all the AV work, and set the mood with the gorgeous pink uplighting. Of course, you knew I'd pick pink as the lighting choice! 

The photos were taken by Lauren Anderson of LA Photography, my lovely fashion photographer and friend. If you think you're being bombarded with photos in this post, blame her! I had to pick my favorite 25 to share with you out of 812!!! 

The thank you's could truly go on forever. From all my friends, to my doctor and her great staff, not to mention Adam and my mom, I truly feel so lucky and blessed to be surrounded by such a supportive and loving group of people. 

I'm so garetful I was able to share this special celebration with you. I have appreciated all your interest, love and kind words along the way! xxxooo

Must Have Accessory: Scarves

Top | Scarf (similar style) | Jeans (only $65!!) | Shoes (similar style - 25% off with code FAMILY) | Handbag (budget friendly version) | Cuff  | Earrings | Gucci Sunglasses (sold out, similar style) 

I may have a wall full of shoes in my office, and have more handbags then anyone truly needs, but there's nothing my heart desires (and buys) more, than scarves. Blanket scarves, silk scarves, plaid scarves, leopard print scarves, head scarves - you name it, I have it...or want it!!

When did this love affair start? I am not sure, but it's been long enough for me to have seven, yes SEVEN, shelves filled with them. It truly is the best, and most useful accessory money can buy. 

Not an avid scarf wearer? Here is why you need to jump on the bandwagon and start a scarf collection now!

1) They make traveling a breeze. Instead of traveling with jewelry (which creates a lot of bulk and a lot of weight), switch out that statement necklace for a scarf. You'll always look chic and effortlessly pulled together. Bonus, your neck won't hurt at the end of the day, either. 

2) They're an easy way to try out a trend. 

3) They're perfect for every season! Just make sure you're paying attention to the weight and material, and you're good to go. 

4) Scarves ares multi functional. From example, they serve a practical purpose by keeping your neck warm in colder climates. They also can be used to keep you warm, or as a blanket on a long flight or drive. Most importantly they can take any outfit from drab to fab;)

5) You can dress them up or down. 

6) You'll never get bored, because every scarf can be worn multiple wayy. Seamlessly knotted around your neck, worn infinity style, or loosely draped around your neck, the possibilities are endless. 

7) You can bargain shop them! Cha-ching!!

... and that's only the beginning! Check back here later this week for a recap and photos from my Arthritis Today cover release party! Until then, xo! 

Photos by LA Photography

10 Stripe Dresses You'll Live In All Season Long

Photos by LA Photography

Dress | Shoes | Purse (vintage, similar here) | Sunglasses | Necklace | Bracelets | Earrings 

Year after year, season after season, stripes never seem to go out of style. If anything, they are constantly gaining popularity. From horizontal, to vertical, crisscrossed, subtle and bold, it's easy to see why everyone falls in love with this simple pattern. 

With Spring already in full swing (how is it almost April?!?!), stripes are getting an update in different hues, styles and materials that are perfect for a warmer season. 

Below I've rounded up my top ten favorite stripe dresses that are perfect for every occasion. With prices ranging from $13 to $238, there's something for every style and budget.

 See something you like? Simply click on the image and you'll be taken directly to the retailers website. 

Happy shopping!

My Stay at The Langham, Chicago + My Travel Guide for the Windy City

Happy Thursday!! I hope everyone is having a great week, and cheers to the weekend being right around the corner.

I just got back from spending a week in the Midwest with my family and absolutely loved every minute of it - family time always goes by way too fast. We've always been spread out around the U.S., but as I get older, I really wish we all lived a lot closer to one another. It is hard always having to be a plane ride away, and I envy those families that are in the same city, or even the same state as one another. But, it does make you appreciate the time you have that much more! 

The vacation started with two fun filled days in Chicago with my sister, before heading home to Wisconsin. We stayed at The Langham, Chicago, which opened late last summer, and definitely lived up to it's five star rating. From deluxe accommodations with river front views, to their afternoon tea, and amazing spa with a 67 foot swimming pool, the hotel left no stone unturned. 

The location cannot be beat either. Whether you're there for work or pleasure, you're equally as close to the business district, as you are to the acclaimed Magnificent Mile. It's within 30 minutes of both of Chicago's airports, which also makes it easy and convenient. 

With a knowledgeable concierge on hand, he was able to tell my sister and I all we needed to know about the St. Patrick's Day celebrations, new store and exhibit openings, as well as getting us last minutes reservations at our favorite restaurant Hugo's Frog Bar (a must try)!

Having been to Chicago more times then I can count, here are some of my favorite things to do on any trip to the Windy City! 

Stroll through Millennium Park, and snap a pic in front of the Cloud Gate (aka the Bean). 

Bar hop on Rush Street after finishing dinner at  Nico Osteria

Go to The Signature Room at the top of the Hancock Building, and sip on a Gold Coast. 

Visit The Art Institute of Chicago, one of my favorite museums ever. If gazing at works by Seurat, Picasso and Chagall (just to name a few) made you hungry, kick up your heels at the yummy Terzo Piano restaurant. 

Go to the 103rd floor of the Willis Tower, and soar in the clouds when you step out onto Skydeck. Be sure to take in the gorgeous views, too! 

 Go to the Field Museum and get up close and personal with Sue, the most complete T.rex  ever discovered

Visit Oak Street for the best shopping.

Share a delectable meal with friends at The Purple Pig

Take in a comedy show at Second City 

I'd love to know what some of your favorite things are to do in Chicago, so I can put them on my list for next time! 

This post is in partnership with The Langham, Chicago. As always, all thoughts and opinions are my own. Thank you for supporting the brands that make Ashley Nicole Style possible. 

Photos 2,4, 5, 6 and 8 courtesy of The Langham, Chicago website.