Friday, April 27, 2018

Causal Chic Under $40!










Tweed Vest | T-Shirt | Jeans | Purse (budget friendly version here) | Heels (similar style) | Earrings | Watch (similar style)

How cute is this tee? The tassels are so fun, and of course the Parisian lover in me thinks the "Bonjour" signage is great! It comes in three other colors and is only $9! 

I love using blazers to dress up a causal outfit because it makes any outfit look more polished. This blazer is under $40 and makes this tee look chic and dresses it up. This "blazer" is actually a vest, but when I put it on it looked a little long when paired with the jeans. If it was wintertime, this tweed vest would look great worn buttoned up with a pair of leather leggings, but during the spring/summer it looked a little heavy. I tossed it over the shoulders, and voilĂ  - cute, right? 

Wednesday, April 25, 2018

Sachin & Babi High-Low Gown












Happy Wednesday, my friends! 

It has been a busy few weeks of back-to-back events here! Last week we had our second Bone Bash committee meeting - did I tell you that I'm chairing the event again this year? I cannot wait! Then I had the annual Heroes & Handbags luncheon, where I was the Handbag Solicitation Chair for the second year, and lastly, Adam and I attended the Theater Under the Stars Gala! By far my favorite event of the week!

I love any excuse to get all dolled up, and I definitely had a movie star moment in this dress. My friends at Sachin & Babi sent me this gorgeous high-low gown to wear to the event, and it was an absolute dream. I loved how the classic black and white combo had a modern spin with the over-sized sequin bow. I wanted to add a little extra youthful trendiness to the gown as well, so I paired it with these popular and fun Starbust beaded earrings (also by the brand). 

The TUTS Gala was a beautiful event, and I loved getting a chance to support my good friend Houston designer David Peck, who co-chaired the event. From live performances from several Broadway stars, to a beautiful dinner that took place on The Hobby Center stage, it was truly a night to remember!


Thursday, April 19, 2018

Multi Color Tweed Mini-Dress










Mini Dress (only $19) | YSL Purse (budget friendly) | Pumps | Earrings (similar style) | Bracelet (similar style) | Sunglasses 

Hello, teensy--weensy mini dress! Verdict is still out whether this cute tweed piece is a dress, or a long top! Ha! I guess it's a matter of perspective (or height)?! Whatever it is, there's no question that it is darn cute. When the cooler temps roll around again, I definitely plan to wear this with tights and OTN boots! Tweed is typically a more winter friendly material, but the bold multi-colors certainly make it seasonally appropriate, and perfect for Spring. 

It has been a whirlwind of a month with lots of travel and more to come! As you know, we had a quick getaway to Mexico, and when we got back, we had a few days before heading to NYC! We had a blast in the Big Apple (we go at the same time every year), and got to enjoy a few Broadyway shows, one too many great meals, and of course, some shopping! 

The day after I got back from New York, my mom came in to town, and we had a great time spending time together, and attending several events! More on that to come! It's always so nice having her in town, and I love going shopping with her because she has a keen eye for style - especially interior decorating. I've been waiting to get a few things for the house, and she definitely encouraged me to purchase some amazing pieces while we were out shopping. 

Be sure to head to my Instagram to enter the $500 Urban Decay giveaway that I currently have going on! Entering is simple and easy, and who doesn't love to win some gorgeous beauty goodies?! Click here to enter now! xo




Monday, April 2, 2018

On-Trend: Basket Bags








Dress (sold out; similar here, here & here) | Bag | Sandals (must have!) | Hat | Cuff | Bangle | Sunglasses 


Top handle bags gained popularity a few seasons ago, and once the summer season started to roll around, this closet staple has been popping up everywhere! We're seeing everything from straw, to rattan, wicker, and bamboo in all shapes and sizes. The most popular this season seems to be the smaller, the better. 

I feel  like this is a trend that everyone loves to hate. From the Cult Gaia Ark Bag (I've used it in my last two posts), to bucket bags like this one, I've received so many questions and gotten a lot of comments.  "How do things not fall out?" "Aren't they impossible to pack?" "The price tag is ridiculous." "Isn't this fad over?" "Cute, but impractical." Although I won't argue with any of the above, this trend is here to stay, and if anything, it's getting bigger. 



For the record, I haven't had any issues yet with things falling out, and when I pack them, I either put them in my carry-on or stuff them with items in my suitcase to maintain the shape.

My suggestion for dabbling in this trend? Find a great dupe! I love trendy pieces as much as the next girl. but I steer clear of investing in 'of-the-moment' pieces. This trend has stuck around for a while, but who knows how much longer that will last. Just like all popular 'it bags,' there is always someone creating the same thing (or something similar) for less! 

Here are 10 of my favorite basket bags that won't break the bank!

 

design + development by kiki and co. creative