Knock The Chill Off
Lately the temperatures have constantly fluctuated in Raleigh, NC, and you really have to put forth an effort to think about how to dress due to the constant changes. For days when it’s chilly outside but you still need to cover up, I’ve found the perfect versatile piece. I’m currently obsessed with my long waistcoat. Not only are these vests functional and perfect for layering without the bulk, they also add shape and structure to any look. The flexibility is endless! Although I’m wearing my vest with a skirt, they also look great with boyfriend jeans or slacks. I also love the fact that these vests make you look taller by elongating your torso. During times like now when the weather is unstable, these vests can be a life saver. They will also transition well into spring. Although I’ve been layering mine lately with shirts and sweaters to kick the chill off, I definitely plan to ditch the fur collar and rock it sleeveless soon. Photography by: Em Grey Photography Shop a similar look below: //Zara Long Waistcoat with Faux Fur Collar// (Similar here: Evans Black Fur Collar Waistcoat) //Anne Klein Houndstooth Skirt // (Similar here: MANGO Houndstooth Pencil Skirt) //Stuart Weitzman Suede Boots // (Similar here: Christian Louboutin Suede Fierce Platform Boots) Love, The Ultimate...
Recapping the 15th Annual African American Cultural Celebration
I can’t believe it’s nearly the middle of February! Where has the month gone? Right before the month began, I kicked off Black History Month by attending the 15th Annual African American Cultural Celebration on January 30th. This free event was held at the NC Museum of History in downtown Raleigh, and this years theme was Civil Rights—March On!. Although I’ve been a Raleigh native for 19 years, this was my first year attending. With over 75 musicians, storytellers, dancers, authors, artists, chefs, and more, it was sure to be an exciting day. One of the true highlights of my day was visiting the “Made Especially For You By Willie Kay” exhibit. Willie Otey Kay was queen of Raleigh fashion for decades, who surpassed racial boundaries to create a successful business. I learned so much about this stylist who had been designing and making dresses for brides, proms and debutantes from all over the State. It was such a treat to see her handcrafted dresses up close. Read more about her story here: NC Museum of History and The News & Observer In summary, this event was extremely fun and educational for the entire family. It was a perfect start to Black History Month and phenomenal way to celebrate African American heritage and culture. I’m already looking forward to next year’s event! Love, The Ultimate...
A Salute to Style
I took charge of my wardrobe with this military jacket I picked up over the holidays while shopping. I’m in love with the deep rich red, gold and black combination along with button adornment. For fun, I paired it with my ripped jeans, leo logo clutch and threw in my leopard pumps to mix it up. This look will hopefully provide inspiration. While this blog post is about style and having fun with it, I take the military very seriously. Being a veteran and having served in the military for 8 years, I have the utmost respect for my fellow veterans, and those who are currently serving. My heart is happy any chance I get to wear something that remind me of the sacrifices those have made. With that said, I take this opportunity to say a heartfelt thank you to our military! Photography by: Em Grey Photography //Ralph Lauren French Terry Officer’s Jacket// (Ralph Lauren Denim & Supply) Similar here //Kayla Skinny Jeans// (Ralph Lauren Denim & Supply) //New York Lotti Leopard-Print Calf Leather Pump// (Kate Spade) Similar here or here //Hayden Panettiere Signed Clutch// (Dooney & Bourke) Thrifted Love, The Ultimate...
She Wears The Pants
“I like being a woman, even in a man’s world. After all, men can’t wear dresses, but we can wear the pants.” – Whitney Houston I simply love the flexibility and option of wearing dresses or pants. When I want to feel feminine I can pull out my tulle skirts to be as as girly as I want. On the other hand when I want to feel bold and authoritative, I break out my trousers. When I was very young, I wasn’t allowed to wear trousers for religious reasons, so I can really appreciate being able to wear them now. I was surprised to learn in general that trousers weren’t always acceptable for women to wear. Below are some interesting facts I found on Wikipedia about women wearing trousers. In 1919, Luisa Capetillo challenged the mainstream society by becoming the first woman in Puerto Rico to wear trousers in public. She was sent to jail for what was then considered to be a “crime”, but the judge later dropped the charges against her. Starting in the 1920s and 30s, women increasingly wore trousers as leisurewear, and in the early 20th century female pilots and other working women often wore trousers. Katharine Hepburn as well as other actresses were often photographed in trousers from the 1930s. During World War II, women working in industrial work in war service wore their husbands’ (suitably altered) trousers, and in the post-war era trousers were still common casual wear for gardening, socialising, and other leisure pursuits. In the 1960s, André Courrèges introduced jeans for women, leading to the era of designer jeans. In 1969...
I’m a Classic Woman
Trends always benefit from an anchor in the classic! Although my style is eclectic, I’m a classic woman. I love timeless looks, beautiful cuts in clothing made of fine natural fabrics, investment dressing, and designs that stand the test of time thereby never going out of style. I splurged on this beautiful vintage suit at a local trunk show at House of Landor, and I must say I’ve been obsessed with this ensemble ever since. The dramatic cape is stunning, turns heads and stands out from the crowd. It’s also functional and will keep you warm while looking chic. The unique locket pendant chain on the vest is rare to see these days and truly makes a statement. To give this classic suit a more modern look, I paired it with winter white pants and gold cap toe pumps which adds a bright color pop. Besides straight-fit cut pants, a cape can also be worn with a pencil skirt, leggings, skinny jeans and a dress. When you incorporate classic styles, you never have to face a dull fashion moment in your life! Photography by: Em Grey Photography //Cape and Vest// (Vintage) (House of Landor) //Purse// (Vintage) //Log Red Suede Platform Pumps// (Sigerson Morrison) Similar here or here //Makeup// (Reveal Cosmetics) Love, The Ultimate Fashionista...About Me
I remember at a very young age being mesmerized in my mother’s closet, and trying on her clothes which quickly became a hobby. As I grew older I not only enjoyed enhancing my look, but that of others, so the natural fit was to become a Fashion Stylist.
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