- Page 3 of 17 - fashion lives here.

Transition to Fall.

September 22, 2015

Happy first day of fall! According to the calendar, September 23rd marks the first day of fall — but tell that to our Texas weather. The forecast is mid-nineties all week. I have noticed a change in the morning and evening temps so, we’re getting there.

PS. – How is it already September 22nd??

Since I can’t quite wear my booties and scarves (I really want to though!) I’ve decided to talk about transitioning to your fall wardrobe. You can’t quite rock the sweaters but tank tops aren’t enough for the cooler mornings. For me, the transition is all about layering. You want to find the balance in your wardrobe when heading into the fall season. It’s a pretty fun time to explore your closet. It’s the only time of year where you can easily pull together summer gear and fall staples which means the options are endless!

Layers are the key to maximizing your closet in the early fall months.

Throw a cardigan on over a summer dress or pair lightweight sweaters with shorts for weekend wear.

Always think about your proportions – only one aspect of your outfit will be on the heavy side. For example a fun bootie with shorts and a long sleeve tee or maybe your favorite summer dress worn with that chunky sweater you’ve been dying to start wearing again.

The great thing about layers is that you can remove and add as needed. Gives your wardrobe much more flexibility.

Just the other day, I came up with a cute new outfit using these ideas. I wore a cropped sweater with a midi skirt that I normally wear with a short sleeve tee. I received lots of compliments and created a new outfit by wearing something from the fall side of my closet.

(Just kidding. There isn’t warm vs. cold in my closet….just organized by color!)

dress: LOFT (similar, similar, and here) | sandals: Gentle Souls | chambray shirt: J. Crew (get a few)

Here’s to an exciting fall!
I’ve been thinking about my goals I set in the beginning of the year. I’ve accomplished a lot but I still have work to do! Finish strong!

xoxo,
cymone.

Linking up with: Classy Yet Trendy, Pink Sole

[Photos by the lovely Dusty Rose Darling Photography]

A New York Fashion Week State of Mind.

September 14, 2015

It’s September, and that means two things. Football & fashion week. While I’m super pumped that football is back (college & NFL) this post will be about the latter. New York Fashion Week is here. It’s definitely a big deal in the fashion industry but if you aren’t familiar here’s a few bits of info:

It’s a fashion girl’s dream to attend (I’ll get there one day!) & the most exciting time of the year.
Fashion week is really more like fashion month – all the fashion weeks around the world are back to back. (London, Milan, Paris are the major weeks to follow through October 8th)
Fashion week is always a season ahead – this September we will be seeing Spring 2016 collections.
Buyers from the top department stores are attending the shows and make appointments to start their selection process.
Some of the best parties between celebs, models, and designers happen during this time. Stay tuned to insta!
Fashion notables & blogger favorites from all over the world come out during fashion month, so bring your very best.

I’ll be doing a round up of my favorite shows later this week – come back to check out what’s to come for Spring 2016.

Which brings me to today’s post. Even though I didn’t make it to New York this year, I decided to show and outfit I might wear. Tell me what you think!

My photographer Dusty Rose Darling Photography really did some great work on this one! We had so much fun with this theme, we just couldn’t stop shooting!

Share your thoughts! Is this something you could see at New York Fashion Week? What would you wear if you get the chance to go?

Until next #NYFW,
xoxo.
-c.

Linking up with: Pink Sole — Mahogany Closet — Style Nudge — Beauty By Miss L — Still Being Molly — I do DeClaire — Tuesday Talk — Style Nudge

Life Lately.

September 9, 2015

Lately.

watching…Gilmore Girls! Going on a Netflix binge of one of my favorite shows. Loved it the first time around and it’s just as good re-watching.

eating…Everything in sight. My appetite has been up and down lately. All I know is I need to hit the gym before this gets outta control. What can I say? A girl likes to eat.

shopping…for a new computer. My MacBook has served me well these past five years but she is on her last leg. I was interested in the new rosegold MacBook but then my mom suggested I get the desktop based iMac. It’s cheaper, the big screen is very cool, and it has more space. It’s not portable which is the only draw back. Decisions, decisions.

recovering…From my family vacation and cruise to the Bahamas. All you can eat, open 24/7 buffets & key lime pie crawls are no joke. Pictures and posts to come, don’t worry!!

reading…The Consultant’s Calling by Geoffrey M. Bellman – preparing and learning all I can since consulting is my sweet spot & passion!

buying…Nothing at the moment. Which is rare for me, let me tell you. The goal is to save money, take care of some things (new brakes, ew.) and then build a rainy day fund.

searching…For some new fall gear at a sale price. Leggings, tights, & sweaters are all on the list. If I score some deals I’ll be sure to share!

craving…some chill time with my friends and god-daughter. Working on this blog requires a lot of time but family is most important!

doing…Camp Gladiator! Sounds way more intense than it is but it’s great to get my butt in gear. Gotta look fine, not just in the summer time! It’s motivating being around a group of people are all shapes & sizes working as hard as they can. If you do your best going non-stop for the full hour you’ll leave feeling so good about yourself.

needing…To catch up on blog stuff! I’ve left you high & dry while on vacation. So back to the grind it is!!

Yay for a short week!
xoxo,
-c.

Linking up with: Mix & Match Fashion, Red Closet Diary, Living In Color Style, Passion4Fashion, The Closet by Christie

#LifeGoals : Work Life Balance

August 26, 2015

If anyone tells you they have found the secret to work life balance, they are probably giving you false hope. Finding balance is an everyday juggling act and the formula to achieve this balance changes constantly.

I relaunched my blog at the same time I started a rigorous new position at my job in corporate retail. It has been challenging, but a great growth journey as well. I’ve been able to discover new passions, make connections with new people (yay DBC!), and it’s helping me determine what I really want to do in my life.

As a newer blogger with a full-time job, late nights are the norm. Work life balance is on my mind quite frequently. These are some of the things I remind myself as encouragement to keep going:

Make time for yourself!

For me, doing things outside of blog work and work-work is so essential. I have to take some down time for reality tv, reading a book, or playing Two Dots on my iPhone. Even if it’s just an hour, that time allows me to not worry about anything else while I get a few minutes of enjoyment. I’m a simple girl so it doesn’t take much. Once I’ve had a little me-time, I find it easier to get back to work.

Structure is key.

Set aside blocks of time for each task you need to complete so that you have a gauge if you are ahead or behind schedule on what needs to be done. Estimate how long it will take you to finish a task, like doing the dishes in 30 minutes or uploading/editing images for the week in an hour, and see if you can beat that time.

Motto: “It’s a marathon, not a sprint!“

Create lists!

Lists are so important to helping me achieve balance. I have my task list at work where I check things off like your standard to-do list. Then my blogging and business list is a rolling list of things I would like to work on, bloggers to reach out to, and events to cover. I actually have multiple lists for each area of my life. Brunch lists, shopping, Christmas lists, etc. The Evernote app is my go-to where I keep them all in a handy spot for quick access on my phone or laptop. Using an app to keep your thoughts all in one place is a great way to keep record of all your great ideas!

Enjoy the process.

If you aren’t having fun, stop. While not everyday will be butterflies and roses, you should have an overall good feeling about the work you are doing. If that is not the case, then find a new passion. Don’t complain about where you are at, just work on a strategy to make it to an environment that will make you happy.

Quoted: “Welcome changed plans.“

Reward yourself.

Set goals for yourself and assign rewards to them so you have something to look forward to. I tell myself, “if I do an hour of work on xyz, then I can watch the latest episode of The Real Housewives of Wherever.” Your treat could be a Starbucks run or even a nap. That way, you feel accomplished by getting through your list and also get a reward and a mini-break to celebrate!

My final suggestion is to create the life you want to live. So many people have found a niche to offer a product, service, or design app that people needed and responded to. In our current world, we have the freedom to make our own path. The beauty of it is that your path will look like no one else’s so don’t get caught up in the comparison game.

Check out these other great bloggers & their stories on finding a balance:

Bake Love Give
Jasmine Crockett
Ware is the Vodka?
MOZDEB
Oh So Cynthia
Southern Elle Style
The Charm Scout
Stephanie Drenka
Gelie Beans & Sparkly Things

Take some time to reflect, really think about your work-life balance and how you can work towards your goals. Please share your tips as well, I’d love to know!

And as always, remember to…

#LiveLovely,
xoxo. | cymone.

photo via Ashley Ella Design

Pastel Party. Lavender & Coral.

August 25, 2015

Hello Tuesday!

Today on the blog, we’re having a pastel party! Pastels aren’t only for spring, they also work in the summer season. I love the light and airy feel that pastels give. What’s fun is bringing in a pop of color to keep things interesting.

This lavender look gets a little punch with help from its friend coral. Gold accessories and a printed clutch are the perfect accents to round out this simple outfit. Style reminder: Dark denim will never let you down.

Haute tip: Have fun with color! Pastel shades are a great way to experiment in the color spectrum.

You can be understated yet still make a statement.

clutch, bracelets, gold, jewelry, deux lux, neutral accessories

photos: Izehi Photography

top: Equipment (must-have) | jeans: Paige, loving these too | shoes: DV Dolce Vita, also in black | bag: Deux Lux, and here in a different color

I’ve learned that simple doesn’t have to be boring. This sleeveless silk Equipment top has gotten so much wear, and I am always looking for the next color to add to my closet. Anyone can wear this top. The length is great, they definitely don’t skimp on the fabric. You can dress it up with a blazer, or be perfectly casual by wearing a cardigan over it with a fun-printed belt for some interest.

PS. – Last Call by Neiman Marcus usually has Equipment tops on sale, that’s where I go to stock up!

#LiveLovely,
xoxo. | cymone.

Linking with: Chic Street Style, Classy Yet Trendy, Color and Grace, Shopping My Closet, Living In Color Style, Mix & Match Fashion

Chic Back to School Essentials.

August 20, 2015

It’s that time of year! Back to school time is in full effect. Even though I’m years removed from my college days [time flies] I’m a sucker for the school supply aisle. I’m super guilty of spending way too much time in the notebook & pen/pencil aisle in Target. When the stuff is so cute you can’t help but grab it!

Whether you are heading back to school or need to refresh your office/desk space, why not do it in style?

Back to School & Office Essentials

going left to right by row
(with some BONUS finds because I couldn’t help myself)

Row 1. Notebooks.
Fringe Studio ‘Stay Wild’ Softcover Notebook • $10
RIFLE PAPER CO x Garance Doré ‘Leo’ Notebooks (Set of 2) • $15
I Speak Fashion Notebook – Bloomingdale’s Exclusive • Bloomingdale’s • $10

\\Bonus finds:\\
Refillable Brown Leather Notebook (Medium) • Kaufmann Mercantile • $12.90–55
Kate Spade New York Ampersand Spiral Notebook • Kate Spade • $14
RIFLE PAPER CO ‘Parisian’ Notebooks (Set of 2) • $15
White + Gold “Reward” Medium Soft Cover Notebook • Poppin • $12

Row 2. Pencils + Accessories.
Strike gold pencil cup • Kate Spade • $24
Pilar Pencil Cup • CB2 • $12.95
Gem Erasers Set • Kate Spade • $16
Purposeful Pencil Set • Dot & Bo • $10

Row 3. Backpacks.
POVERTY FLATS Stripey Backpack,Pink • Versace • $35
Milly Riley Backpack-White • Milly • $249
Madewell New Transport Rucksack • Madewell • $248
Urban Originals ‘Runway’ Backpack • Urban Originals • $80

\\Bonus finds:\\
Herschel Supply Co. ‘Settlement Mid Volume’ Backpack • Herschel • $55
Barneys New York India Mini Backpack-Black • Barneys New York • $149
NILA ANTHONY Geometric Print Backpack • $48
Rip Curl ‘Cross the Lines’ Backpack • Rip Curl • $49.50

Row 4. Pouches + Bags.
BAN.DO ‘Looking Good’ Makeup Bag • $26
Dogeared Coffee For President Pouch • Dogeared • $24
Herschel Supply Co. Carter Large Fold Over Pouch • Herschel • $40
Baggu Medium Carryall: Blackstatic • Baggu • $12

Row 5. Stylish Accents.
FRENDS x BaubleBar Blossom Layla Headphones – White • BaubleBar • $175
Fiskars Designer Scissors, Black & White • $5.99
THURSDAY/FRIDAY Away Mini Pouch • Sold Out
Swingline® Fashion Stapler – Pink • $9.99
Ellepi Brass Wedge Double Pencil Sharpener • $8

Hope you are ready for a new season of style!
xoxo. | cymone.

Violet Bohemian.

August 17, 2015

Let’s get this week started!

How was everyone’s weekend? I was gone all last week at a work conference where our brands debut the Fall product and new launches. I hated not being able to work on the blog. After the 5 days of back to back to back meetings, I finally got some rest and a renewed strength. So much to do but gotta keep going!

Since summer is such a freeing season, I wanted to make sure my inner bohemian is satisfied before the cooler weather starts to kick in. Although I don’t wear it often, this bohemian dress is one of my favorites.

I bought this boho/peasant inspired dress in “The Alley”, a shopping area in downtown Los Angeles, when we were visiting during a family reunion trip. I then wore it when we dropped my younger brother off at college in Atlanta, Georgia. I love when clothing is tied to memory and meaning.

Just asked my brother what year he started college. [My memory is starting to get bad, okay.] This dress is at least 8 years old y’all. Good thing trends come back full circle!

dress: old, similar here, & here | sandals: Sam Edelman & here in olive green | clutch: Francesca’s, similar here, here, here | earrings: Influence (gift from the fabulous boutique The Pink House)

photo credit: Izehi Photography

Haute tip: Pair solid accessories with solid clothing. My dress is solid purple, so my jewelry is solid as well. I wanted a contrast, so I picked a burnt orange ring and hot pink earrings. Because they are one color instead of patterned, the jewelry compliments the dress instead of distracting.

Shop the post:

Linking up with: Beauty by Miss L — Pink Sole — Style Elixir — I do DeClaire — Myriad Musings — Sandy a la Mode — Two Peas in a Blog — Classy Yet Trendy — Living in Color Style

August Style Tips.

August 10, 2015

Every month brings a new set of style codes to think about when shopping. Using some simple tips will help you focus and prepare for the style season ahead. August is the beginning of the transition into the new season as summer winds down. [sad day.] While Texas doesn’t really “do” fall, we still love to dress like it. Here are my style tips for August dressing.

style tips, LuLu*s striped dress, Steve Madden finge heels, red coach bag, karen walker sunglasses

add a chic tan sweater + booties = fall perfection.

via Straight A Style

1. Shop for pieces to transition into fall.
– Lightweight sweaters and dresses, plus layering items that you can wear with tights and booties. Cardigans in neutral colors, multiple pairs of tights, long sleeve slub knit tees are on my list.

Shop these picks:

2. Stock up on swimsuits for next year.
– Buy that swimsuit you’ve had your eye on all season. Grab bikini tops or bottoms in solids or simple prints that can mix & match with your current stash. It’s also a great time to add a coverup to your collection, kimono styles are my favorite. Try a new cut top or bikini bottom, it’s on sale right? See my picks here.

lounge pants, pajama pants, travel style pants, style tips

via Pinterest

3. Travel in Style.
– Whether you’re heading back to school from summer break or taking in one last vacation before summer’s end, there are endless ways to travel in style. Chic pajama pants and big totes are my travel go-to items.

be bold. say yes to color.

via Color Me Courtney

4. Finish the summer on a bold note.
– You all know I’m all about a color pop. Make the most of the sunshine by wearing the heck out of your bright colors.

style tips, fashion, dallas, fashion blogger, black fashion blogger, detroit fashion blogger, asos, jumpsuit, white jumpsuit, chic jumpsuit, enzo angiolini sandals, michael kors clutch, rocks box, jumpsuit, trend

summer is THE time to rock a white jumpsuit. don’t miss out.

via Alwayz Fashionably Late

5. Summer whites.
– I somehow always find myself wishing I had worn more white during the summertime. Not that you have to stick to the old adage of “no white after Labor Day” but once the weather starts to transition, so should your wardrobe color palette. Wear all your white dresses, jeans, and tops until you can’t anymore!

*Also, if you haven’t entered the giveaway trip to NYC during Fashion Week + shopping spree – go now. Click to read more & enter! Only a few days left!!*

Did you like these tips?
Let me know if this was helpful!
xoxo,
-c.

Life Lately.

August 7, 2015

New blog series alert.
So all you new readers can get to know me a lil better, I’ll occasionally post about what’s going on in my #lifelately.

Feel free to join in on the hashtag and share what’s going on in your world.

Lately.

watching…Friday Night Lights. Just Netflix’d the whole series in about 3 weeks. Loved it. A lot of it was based on my high school. Not sure why I hadn’t watched sooner. Need a new series to start.

eating…Soup for lunch and oatmeal for dinner. Got a couple of fillings and it still hurts to eat. That numbing situation is no joke.

shopping…for any spring/summer stuff on my watch list. I really should be saving money but I can’t resist a good sale. Sorry mom. Speaking of mom….

celebrating…A milestone birthday for my sweet momma and her graduating with her MBA! She’s the best. #rolemodel

needing…A full-body massage. Sleeping with the wrong pillows makes my old neck injury flare up and throws off my whole alignment. Maybe I should go see a chiropractor?

listening…To some random outdoor concert I can hear all the way from my place. Good sound system I guess.

buying…Books to read while on my cruise to the Bahamas coming up! Get the list here. It’s my first one so I’m really not sure how it’s gonna go. Any good cruise tips?

searching…For a new planner for 2016. There are so many good options out there. I’m having the hardest time committing.

craving…Good sushi. So many good places still on my list to try. I can never get enough. Now accepting applications for a sushi buddy. Is that a thing?

needing…A weekend full of rest & relaxation. Been going non-stop for at least a month. Work has been demanding + putting in some hard work on this blog will have a girl ready for a weekend in pj’s.

Hope the weekend is good to you.
xoxo,
-c.

[P.S. – the Fashion Week giveaway is still going strong. New York is calling you! Read the details & enter to win here.]

Board Shorts & Fringe. + NYFW Giveaway!

August 5, 2015

Hey y’all. Happy Hump Day! This week has already been interesting. Anyone else already looking forward to the weekend?! Vacation towards the end of summer is what’s keeping me going. Speaking of vacations, this giveaway is one you want to enter!

Can I just say how much I love this outfit. The A.L.C. shorts were a Last Call sale purchase and I’m so glad I have them. Printed shorts have been on my mind lately so I’m glad I got to rock this pair. Board shorts aren’t normally my style but these were just too cool when I put them on. Longer length shorts are great for those who aren’t as confident about their legs but still want to achieve that look.

Can’t forget about the accessories! These fringe heels are so fun. As soon as I saw them, I went out and bought them (something I rarely do #fr). I knew they would be a versatile yet trendy shoe to add to my wardrobe. Fringe has been a huge trend this spring/summer and I had to join in.

Haute tip: One of the best ways to try out a new trend is to try it with an accessory like shoes or a handbag. Then you aren’t making the full commitment and don’t have to spend a ton of money.

top: H&M (similar) | shorts: A.L.C. (similar here, here, here) | shoes: here & here on sale

Photo Credit | Dusty Rose Darling

Giveaway Time! – CLOSED

Bringing an exciting giveaway to you readers. Deets on how to enter below!

Every year the women of New York leave the past behind and look forward to the future. This is known as Fashion Week. – Carrie Bradshaw, Sex & The City

How long have you been wanting to travel to NYC for Fashion Week – the major fashion event of the season? I have teamed up with some amazing bloggers and we are bringing you a one of a kind giveaway!

Enter below to win a TRIP TO NEW YORK CITY DURING FASHION WEEK!!!

Where? New York City
When? September 11-13th

Prize Includes: A $400 flight voucher, two free nights at the Hudson Hotel, and a $400 SHOPPING SPREE!!!

I’ve been dreaming of a way to make it to Fashion Week for years but now YOU have a chance! NYC buzzes with so much energy during Fashion Week. Everyone of the fashion world hits the city for over a week of fashion madness.

This is a trip you NEED to take.

New York Fashion Week Giveaway

*Each entrant can enter up to 161 times. All entries will be verified. Each entry improves your chance of winning! Must be 18+ years older to enter. International applicants welcome! This giveaway will end at midnight on August 12th and the winner will be picked at random. If you win, you must answer our email within 48 hours to claim the prize or it will go to the next winner.

Linking up with: Chic Street Style – Pastries Pumps & Pi – Living in Color Style

Transition to Fall.

A New York Fashion Week State of Mind.