Preppy
Fashion, Outfit of the Day

My Preppy Side

Today I am sharing with you the third and final look shot by Luke Wayne Photography, during my New England tour. When describing my fashion style, “preppy” does not define it. While I appreciate those polished and classic styles, I tend to align myself more with Elle Woods rather than her counterpart Vivian Kensington! Catch my drift?! There is no better time, however, to crank up the prep game than during a trip to CT. Here is how I managed to dress preppy while staying true to my unique style.     Blue and White Stripes Blue and white stripes are as preppy as it gets. Rather than a classic button down or collared shirt, gravitate towards a less common silhouette or neckline. Consider a halter, tube dress, or an off the shoulder shirt like the one modeled here. I styled mine with a modern pair of skinny jeans.     Pearls and accessories Funk up your pearls and accessories when styling your blue and white stripes. Rather than a dainty strand, go for a more dramatic effect with costume jewelry. I adorned the featured top with what I refer to as my “Mardi Gras beads“! A chunky necklace like […]

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Fashion, Outfit of the Day

Black and White Matching Coordinates

Matching coordinates, two-piece sets, matching separates…whatever you want to call them, it is no secret that I have a thing for them! I refer to this pair as my “Pasadoble outfit!” For those of you who do not watch Dancing With the Stars, get with the program – just kidding! The Pasadoble is a fierce and march-like dance, modeled after the Spanish bullfight. A traditional women’s costume consists of a dramatic full skirt. Now do you see the connection?!     This dynamic duo is currently on sale at H&M for under $40. No that is not a typo! It was love at first sight when I laid eyes on this stunner. The black and white embroidery is just gorgeous and the fit is even better. The ultra high waist slims your frame at the right spot then tapers down into a flowing skirt. Maybe it is the riverside setting, but these matching coordinates might just be my all-time favorite.     I styled this look very simply. I wanted to keep the black and white theme going on so I laced up my knee-high gladiators and toted a beaded bucket bag. The embroidery on the purse is just different […]

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Eyelash lace
Fashion, Outfit of the Day

Eyelash Lace in Collinsville

If you follow me on Snapchat (kelseykfashion), then you may have caught a glimpse of a riverside photoshoot during my New England tour last week. I had the privilege of being the subject for the incredibly talented Luke Wayne, in my hometown of Canton, CT. Although I often brag about California’s beauty, Connecticut deserves the East Coast crown. Lush and a little bit rustic, this charming town proved to be picture perfect last Thursday evening.     You cannot visit good ol’ Canton without a trip to Collinsville. Whether you’re grabbing a bite at LaSalle, or you’re out for a jaunt along the walking trail, this downtown area epitomizes the phrase, “Small Town USA.” Obviously I needed a picturesque outfit to go along with the picturesque setting! That is where the eyelash lace comes to play. Eyelash lace is very regal. This fine fabric has become a popular embellishment, and brands like For Love & Lemons and Free People often resort to this adornment. When I tried this look on for my mom she said, “Free People could put a tag on this and sell it as theirs!” She would be correct minus the hefty price tag. This set is […]

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Etcetera

Bridal Shower Decor Ideas

One of my obligations during my “New England Tour” was to help my mom throw my sister Kyla a fairytale bridal shower. Home decor is my specialty so over the last month I’ve been dreaming up ways to transform the “grand room” into a magical setting. Whether you are hosting a baby shower, bridal shower, or simply a summertime soirée, here’s how to throw an absolutely smashing party.     Theme Always start with a theme. Having a theme and sticking to it will help guide you through the decorating process. My sister set the tone with the cutest fox invitations that the very talented Linda Norton, of the Crazy Fox Paper Etsy shop, helped her design. Once you have a theme, create an inspiration board on Pinterest. This will help get your mind rolling.     Colors The colors and theme go hand-in-hand – I pulled shades of purple and pink straight from the invitation to jazz up the room. I dressed up the tables with lavender tablecloths and topped them with burlap and lace table runners. I incorporated pink with tulle bows around the floral arrangements. As an aside, find out if the guest of honor prefers gold […]

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Beauty, Etcetera

Side Wrap Braid

Whether you’re celebrating a birthday or attending a black tie affair, a special occasion calls for a special hairdo! For some people like myself who prefer to wear their hair down, a side style is always a great compromise. Last week I had the pleasure of attending the Opening of the Stanley Kubrick exhibition at the Contemporary Jewish Museum – the perfect excuse to have my hair styled. Kristin at the Red Chair Salon whipped up this side wrap braid in about 25 minutes. Below is a step-by-step tutorial so that you can create the same “do” at home.     1. Begin by curling day old washed hair with 1 inch curling iron 2. Spray roots with hairspray and tease hair creating volume and fullness (the more the better!) 3. Lightly brush out curls with soft bristle brush to create waves     4. After choosing a preferred side, start a dutch braid in a downward direction. At the nape of your neck, fasten braid with an elastic band and secure end with bobby pin 5. Cover the elastic band with remaining hair and “fluff”up the edges 6. Gently pull apart the braid to give it a messy/thicker appearance. Finish […]

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