Somewear: International Business Conference

My girlfriend is traveling to Hong Kong this week for her company’s international business conference.  She needs work clothes that will pack well, not wrinkle, and be semi-comfortable.  Though this dress still seems a bit restricting, the peplum makes for a great cover incase you eat too much at lunch! 

• Zara, Jacquard Peplum Dress, $79.90
• Diane Von Furstenberg, Darlena Pump, $278
• Alexander Wang, Emile Satchel, $925
• Elizabeth and James, Varick Glasses, $180
• Estee Lauder, Pure Color Long Lasting Lipstick in Hot Copper, $25
• Far Fetch, Vintage Chanel Earrings, $474.83

Somewear: “Special”

My girlfriend recently got engaged atop a mountain in France.  I know- such a blasé location, right?  Anyway, it got me thinking that you can’t always predict where and when you’re going to get engaged and more importantly (for this story, anyway) what you’ll be wearing. 

However, there are a few of you out there that may have an inkling, a hunch, a hint, of when this fateful proposal may occur for you.  Now correct me if I’m wrong, but wouldn’t you want to look “unintentionally flawless” if you could predict when it was all going down?  I mean, I know I would and chances are pictures will be taken and history (well, yours, anyway) will be documented. 

Just sayin’- think about it the next time your boyfriend of 2+ years wants to take you “Somewear Special”.

• Rebecca Taylor, Metallic Leather Bustier Peplum Dress, $895
• Pade Vavra, My Happy Place Necklace, $250
• Rebecca Minkoff, Heart Studs, $48
• Bare Minerals, Indecent Proposal Blush, $22
• Sergio Rossi, Gold Snakeskin Pumps, $890
• Stila Eye Shadow, Diamond Lil Eye Shadow, $18
• ASOS, Bow Clutch, $31.66

Somewear: Chicago (The Musical) at The Winspear Theatre

Going to see an oldie, but a goodie tonight.  Chicago’s in Dallas!  Of course, you know that I’ll be dressing up for the show- jeans just aren’t meant for the theatre.

If you’re in the Dallas area: the show is running from now until the 26th of August, so hurry before it’s gone! Tickets here!

If you aren’t in the Dallas area: go see a show, anyway!  The theatre is good for your soul.  Also, it gives you an excuse to look fabulous.  Though I’m sure if you follow STB, you already do ;) 

• Calvin Klein, Sleeveless Cowl Neck Sheath Dress, $118
• Rebecca Taylor, Skylar Snakeskin Pumps, $295
• Alexis Bittar, Bel Air Gold Small Druzy Two Stone Hinge Bracelet, $245
• Carolee Lux, Small Linear Drop Earrings, $55
• Lauren Merkin, Iris Grey Stamped Snakeskin Clutch, $395
• Sephora + Pantone Universe, Alchemy Of Color Eye Shadow Palette, $34
• Too Faced, La Crème in Divine Wine Bordeaux, $21

Somewear: Tootsies Event, June 28th

Somewear: Tootsies Event, June 28th
I hope everyone has voted for me for the Tootsies Blogger Contest.  If not, you still have a chance to right now and if you have already have- well just vote again- VOTE HERE! If you are in the Dallas area, I highly encourage you to come support me on Thursday from 6:30-8:30PM at Tootsies.  There will be a DJ playing sweet tunes, some festive cocktails, and a mini runway show of all the blogger’s chosen looks, and of course, more voting!  I will be there sporting my fun beachy Alexis maxi dress and super fun accessories (Check out the accessories up-close HERE.)  Maybe you could be there wearing this adorable number or just run by Tootsies before the event and pick something up.  They’re having a fab sale!

• Philosophy Di Alberta Ferretti, Print Shift Dress, $595
• Loeffler Randall, Tamsin Classic Pump, $325
• Lucky Brand, Garden Stack Rings, $27.99
• Frangos, Rainbow Earrings, $175
• Gorjana, Willow Bangles, Sale- $71
• Rag & Bone, Large Geo Purse, $220

Somewear: Kentucky Derby

A couple of my readers have requested a Kentucky Derby outfit.  Some ladies will be attending while others attending a derby themed party.  Nothing screams “I’m sittin’ pretty” more than a white dress.  Pair it with bright spring colors and you’re off to the races!

• Milly, Aris Belted Shift Dress, $376
• Kokin New York, Wicker Luncheon Hat, $425
• Oscar De La Renta, Floral Pump, $695
• Kate Spade New York, "On the Ave" Ruby-Color Multi Color Bib Necklace, $298
• Alexis Bittar, Red Purple Block Ring, $95
• Yves Saint Laurent, Pure Lip Gloss, $30

"Magic City" Premiere!

Magic City Premiere
My girlfriend’s going to appear in a few episodes of the new drama series, Magic City, on the Starz channel.  The LA premiere for the show is tomorrow night so she’s going to need a real stunner to walk the red carpet!  A classic form-fitting blue dress with dramatic gold accessories will look fabulous with her striking red locks! Now, for those of you not familiar with the plotline: Magic City is set in the 1950s at Miami's Miramar Playa Hotel.  It follows the hotel's management, clients, and crime families as they navigate politics and their personal relationships.  I’ve only seen the previews, but it sorta seems like a Soprano’s meets Mad Men type of show- which personally- what could be better?!?!?  For those who want to know more, Magic City will premiere on the Starz channel on April 6 at 10 p.m. Clips can be found here!

• Vivienne Westwood, Corseted draped satin-jersey dress, $785
• Yves Saint Laurent, Platform Pump, $712
• FELIKS+ADRIK, Rope Cuff, $148
• Alexis Bittar, Gold Clip On Earrings, $60
• Yves Saint Laurent, ROUGE VOLUPTÉ Silky Sensual Radiant Lipstick, $34
• Elie Tahari, Colleen Woven Clutch, $298

Where to Wear: Pretty Pastels

I get it.  You’re not into that syrupy sweet, cute as a bunny, bright as an Easter egg look.  You’re afraid your take on the muted hues will come across as a “Paint by Number” experiment gone wrong, but it’s just not the case- not this season, anyway.  Now is the time to accessorize with the paler colors or even go head to toe in them.  Here’s where I think you can go wearing some of this spring’s softer shades!

1. Weekend Brunch (Preferably Under a Shaded Umbrella with a Mimosa in Hand): Tibi Colorblock Blouse, $298 & Pants, $340
2. Charity Event (Hypothetically with a Man in Tote who Wants You to Use His Money to Bid on Items You Want for a Good Cause): Christian Louboutin, Brooklin Clutch, Sales- $672.75
3. Outdoor Shopping Center (Ideally on a Sunny Day with a Slight Breeze): Nanette Lepore, Gossip Print Shorts, $198
4. Daytime Music Concert (Undoubtedly on The Lawn Lounging on an Oversized Blanket): Urban Outfitters, Risky Sunglasses, $12.50
5. Late Night Dance Club (Theoretically in a Place Where Your Dress Can Get Lots of Twirls In): Pixie Market, Pastel Pleated Dress, $208
6. The Office (Hopefully on a Day Where You’re Sure to Be Seen by Many): LOFT, Lace Overlay Ponte Mini Skirt, $69.50
7. Church or Synagogue (Assuming you’re a GCB or perhaps a GJB): Zara, Court Show with Metal Toe Cap, $129

Somewear: Red Ball

My girlfriend, Mia, will be attending a charity event tonight in NY, benefiting the Mary Lea Johnson Richards Research Institute.  It’s a “Red Ball” so as you can imagine, red will be the color of the night.  Instead of wearing a red dress, Mia thought it would be fun to wear black with red accessories.  I suggested, she go for this stunning Amrita Singh showstopper.  I know it will look amazing on her and I can’t wait to see pics!

• Amrita Singh, Crystal South Fork Bib Necklace, $400
• Splendid, Long Sleeve Mini Dress, $98
• Report Signature Shoes, Montauk Pump, $150
• Rebecca Minkoff, Circle Quilt Affair, $395
• OPI, Big Apple Nail Polish, $5.85

Fashion Cents: Black Tie on a Budget

I’m going to a black tie event tonight.  Most people think black tie means fancy clothes and expensive jewelry, but that is not necessarily the case.  There are ways to get around it, you just need to be clever. 

When wearing cheaper material- I always say go with foolproof black.  Sometimes cheaper fabric can look even cheaper when color is involved.  Black always hides- remember that. 

Costume jewelry is in style, so wear that instead of sporting fake looking fine jewelry.  Also note- there is no such thing as “expensive” sequins (though you can be charged out the wazoo for it.)  Just blind people with glitz and glamour and they won’t know the difference.  I promise! 

• ASOS, One Shoulder Dress with Exaggerated Bow, $80.86
• Kate Spade, Long Drop Earrings, $78
• Blu Bijoux, Crystal Bow Ring, $12
• Magid, Sequin Clutch, $32
• Caparros, Viziano Pump, $75
• The Balm, Stainiac Lip, $17

Power Lunch!

 

Sometimes confidence is all in the outfit.  Dress bold and walk in like you own the place and who knows- maybe someday you will.  Get the job done and look good while you’re doing it.  Plus- can anyone really say no to a lady in red? 

• BCBG MAXAZRIA, Runway Celebrity Halter Asymmetrical Color-Blocked Chiffon Dress, $398
• DV by Dolce Vita, Briar Pump, Sale- $59.90
• ALICE by Temperley, Cropped jersey jacket, $340
• Sequoia, Downtown Suede Satchel, $360
• Kate Spade, All Wrapped Up Drop Earrings, $68

New Orleans Wedding at the Peristyle & Jazz Band Reception at the House of Blues

One of my followers, who also happens to be an amazing florist in Tulsa, (The French Bouquet- check her out if you want to see first-hand floral brilliance) is going to a wedding in a few weeks in N’Awlins.  Given that this city has so much style and culture and is the legit birthplace of all things jazz, I felt like she needed something vintage inspired, lacey, and romantic with just a few touches of sparkle and glitz.  Plus, she's French, so this look has a certain-  oh how do you say it... je ne sais quois about it which is compelling and alluring all at the same time!

• BHLDN, Valenciennes Dress, $350
• Badgley Mischka, Jet Crystal Cluster Earrings, $95
• Anthropologie, Perseus Headband, $32 
• Lauren Merkin, Essex Clutch, $350
• Enzo Angiolini, Muira Open Toe Pumps, $99
• Lancome, French Touch Absolu, $35

Ribbon Cutting for Lake Travis School of Fine Arts

At the end of the month my girlfriend will be having a Grand Opening for her new school in Texas, Lake Travis School of Fine Arts.  She needs a “show-stopping” outfit that will last her all day and night through the Open House, ribbon cutting ceremony, and then the opening night party.  I wanted to give her something that was conservative enough for the kids, business professional for the adults, yet still made a “dramatic” statement! 

• Jones New York Collection, Short Sleeve Faux Wrap Dress, $159
• Calvin Klein, Whinnie Pump, $108
• Melie Bianco, Madison Convertible Bag, $90
• Francesca’s, Sparkling Gem Rings, $18
• Antique Brass Scissor Necklace, $8
• Kate Spade, Cluster Studs, $78
• Bobbi Brown, Shimmer Brick - Bronze, $39

Ten Year High School Reunion

I had a recent request from a follower who asked what to wear to an upcoming high school reunion.  She needed a “business casual” ensemble, which to me means a slightly conservative outfit, but something that doesn’t lack in cuteness and sexiness.  Also, make sure you look as young as you did 10 years ago.  To do that, use some really great eye repair cream 6-8 weeks prior, no joke- it will really work!

• Anthropologie, Maeve Pixel Impressionist Shift, $158
• DV by Dolce Vita, Briar, Sale $92
• Laura Costagliola, Enamel Bracelets, $30 each
• Olga Prieto, Aquamarine Ring, $253
• Elaine Turner, Victoria Croc Multi Clutch, $275
• Kate Somerville, Multi-Active Eye Repair Cream, $135 

Fancy Dinner Out to “Meet the Parents”

Sometimes the accessories just make the outfit.  Take a simple wrap dress and spice it up with bold jewelry, a fab bag, and stunning pair of pumps and you have taken that simple frock and transformed it into a showstopper.  All the accessories can be found at one of my favorite places to sell and buy new and used designer items: Designer Social.com. It is legitimately a one stop shop for the fashion and accessory-obsessed like me!

• Quail Shop, Rapp Dress, $220
• Christian Louboutin, Metallic Gaataca Pumps (Size 37), $500
• Alexis Bittar, Lucite and Rhodium Ring, $150
• Angel Jackson, Killer Satchel, $495
• Ranjana Khan, Rose Island Bib Necklace, $340

Somewear: Internet Debut of STB’s Virtual Facelift

I’m so proud to reveal Somewear To Be’s fresh new look, designed by the 

wonderfully talented (and uber patient) Q.A. Design.  If STB was a real lady, I 

know she’d be dressed to the nines today to show-off all her new features!  I’ve 

styled STB in all her favorite colors and even gave her some one-of-a kind Favicon 

stud earrings!  If you love her look as much as I do, spread the word, spread the 

love, and tell all your girlfriends to follow me!

• Hervé Léger, Sweetheart-neck bandage dress, $473 
• Alejandro Ingelmo, Grace Pump, $319 
• Somewear To Be, Favicon Virtual Stud Earrings, Priceless
• Stuart Weitzman, Collection Cou Cou Satin Elektra Clutch, $285 
• Noir Jewelry, Fold-Over Ring, $100 
• Tom Ford, Neroli Portofino Limited Eau de Parfum, $190-$465 
• Yves Saint Laurent, Pure Chromatics Wet and Dry Eye Shadow Palette, $48 

Somewear: Ann Arbor Wedding (AKA College Reunion)

My girlfriend, Amanda, will be spending this holiday weekend attending a wedding on the grounds of her old college campus, the University of Michigan.  Who will be present?  Herself, as well as every other Fighting Wolverine from her graduating class.  So, of course, she must dress the occasion and show a little school spirit in a true U of M blue statement dress.  No necklace needed with all the embellishments at the top, but I suggest she wear her hair up to feature the bright multi-colored earrings and her coral lips!

• Shoshanna, Beaded One-Shoulder Dress, $395
• Amrita Singh, Birgitta Earrings, $50
• NARS Lipstick, Mayflower, $24
• SR Squared by Sondra Roberts, St. Tropez Lizard Bag, $54
• Pour La Victoire, Aria in Sand Patent, $250