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 […]

Continue Reading

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 […]

Continue Reading

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 […]

Continue Reading

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 […]

Continue Reading

Fashion, Wish List Wednesday

Wish List Wednesday: Sandals under $40

The summer is in full swing and along with it comes warm weather outfits. What good is a fabulous ensemble without an equally as fabulous pair of shoes?! Today I am sharing with you three pairs of sandals under $40 and why you should order them by the time you’re done reading this post.   Platforms…enough said! 70’s fashions are back in style and this hot item has made a comeback in many shapes and forms. I just about lived in platform clogs during the winter, but now it’s time to trade them in for an open-toe version. This pair from T.J. Maxx is perfection. Available in black or cognac, and featuring a paisley print heel, all eyes will be on the shoes when you step out in these stunners. Get ’em while you can for only $29.99.     Gladiator sandals are slowly but surely becoming a mainstream trend. In fact, you may recall my knee high pair (last seen here, here and here). As you can see, this avant garde style is more versatile than you think. While a tall pair is playful, an ankle high version is practical. Dress up your chic casual summer fashions with faux suede lace-up gladiators from […]

Continue Reading