Lace & Pearls

A Seattle Style blog. Helping women who struggle with their personal style or those who just need a fashion fix!

Lace & Pearls – The Girl Behind the Blog

When you follow a lot of blogs, you become curious about the person behind the blog and wonder about their background and lifestyle. I thought it would be fun to share a bit about myself and what inspired me to create this blog.

I live in Seattle, Washington with my husband and our two cats; we adopted them last year when they were four months old. It is my first time being a pet owner and I love it! Full disclosure, my husband and I are both dog people, but with us both being away from home for so many hours a day, it just didn’t make sense to have a dog yet. Last fall, my husband talked about possibly getting two cats and I was tickled with excitement! I still remember the first day we brought them home. We are literally smitten with them.

My husband and I met in college and have been married for seven years this July. He was my first boyfriend, and after dating for four years, we got married. We bought our first home last March and are having a blast buying furniture, planting vegetable beds, and doing other projects. He works in Marketing & Communications as a web developer and is wise beyond his years. Seriously, is there anything this man can’t do? He’s truly the best thing that has ever happened to me and our love for one another grows each and every day.

Lace & Pearls – The Girl Behind the Blog

In college, I majored in communications and got a job at Nordstrom in their corporate office when I graduated. Before school, I worked at Nordstrom Rack full time and continued doing seasonal work during breaks. When I graduated from college,  I worked in the Brass Plum buying office as an administrative assistant. I mostly managed purchase orders and got to make sure our vendors shipped products to us on time. Towards the tail end of things, I made the transition to Nordstrom.com and worked on the front end of the site, loading images and curating style suggestions to customers.

After trying to move up in the company, I applied for work externally and got a job in healthcare. I have been promoted a few times since and am now a project manager. When I switched over to healthcare I really missed being immersed in fashion and hearing about the latest trends. I wanted so badly to have that part of my life back and so Lace & Pearls was born.

My first year, I blogged under the radar, I was scared that if people found out, they would discourage me from what I was trying to do so I only told my mom and a few family members. It can also be tough to balance work and the blog, and there have been so many times where I’ve wanted to throw in the towel, but what has kept me going are the relationships I’ve formed, getting to improve my writing skills, and having something that allows me to be creative on a weekly basis.

Well, I think that covers the basics. If you’ve stuck around this long, thank you! If you have any questions for me, please leave them in the comments. I always love hearing from you. Thanks for reading.

Shop the Post:

Chambray: Old Navy | Denim: J.Crew | Necklace: J.Crew (sold out)| Ring: Happiness Boutique (silver version) c/o | Boots: Hunter | Tote: Ralph Ralph Lauren (similar) | Lipstick: Burberry ( No. 49 – intense plum)c/o

Photos by Jenn of Hello Rigby.

Trending: The Slit Sleeve

Spring/Summer 2017 is all about warm weather and a statement sleeve like the bell sleeve, cold shoulder, off the shoulder, the slit sleeve - there really is a sleeve for every style preference. Spring/Summer 2017 is all about warm weather and a statement sleeve like the bell sleeve, cold shoulder, off the shoulder, the slit sleeve - there really is a sleeve for every style preference. Spring/Summer 2017 is all about warm weather and a statement sleeve like the bell sleeve, cold shoulder, off the shoulder, the slit sleeve - there really is a sleeve for every style preference. Spring/Summer 2017 is all about warm weather and a statement sleeve like the bell sleeve, cold shoulder, off the shoulder, the slit sleeve - there really is a sleeve for every style preference. Spring/Summer 2017 is all about warm weather and a statement sleeve like the bell sleeve, cold shoulder, off the shoulder, the slit sleeve - there really is a sleeve for every style preference. Spring/Summer 2017 is all about warm weather and a statement sleeve like the bell sleeve, cold shoulder, off the shoulder, the slit sleeve – there really is a sleeve for every style preference. I challenge you to incorporate one or more of these styles into your warm weather rotation!

I recently picked up this slit sleeve blouse. It’s a great choice for anyone who doesn’t like to show a lot of skin. With its barely-there slit, you can be trendy but not over the top. What’s also great about this top is the flowy material and ruffle hem. On paper, this top kinda sounds like a hot mess but is actually well executed.

Last spring, I was introduced to the Who What Wear Collection collaboration with Target. This collab is ongoing and is filled with on-trend pieces at affordable prices (see my other WWW outfits). Here is an example of yet another item that I couldn’t resist. Oh, and how cute is this Ted Baker bag?! It was a birthday gift to myself. I wanted to represent now that I am a cat momma of two.

How to wear the Slit Sleeve?

The slit sleeve can work for most, if not all occasions. For an off-duty look, wear with jeans and your most comfortable ballet flats. For your 9-5, find a silk or flowy blouse to wear tucked in a skirt or pant. Once evening comes, slip into a cocktail dress with slit sleeves and meet up with your girlfriends for happy hour.

Will you be wearing a statement sleeve this season? Which one is your favorite?

Shop the post:

Blouse: Who What Wear (now on clearance for $7.48)| Jeans: AG | Necklace: Monifa Kincaid Jewelry c/o | Watch: KLASSE14 c/o (use code laceandpearlsblog to receive 12% off your order) | Shoes: Jessica Simpson (similar) | Purse: Ted Baker | Lipstick: Lancôme Matte Shaker Lipstick c/o

Photo’s by Luba Kochubey Portraits

8 Retailers That Offer Personal Shopping Services

Everyone can benefit from a personal style session, even the most stylish fashionista. It can be intimidating to find someone you connect with, but when you do, it really is worth the time and effort. Everyone can benefit from a personal style session, even the most stylish fashionista. It can be intimidating to find someone you connect with, but when you do, it really is worth the time and effort. Keep reading to learn more about the benefits of personal shopping as well as retailers that offer the service.

The Benefits of Personal Shopping

It’s free. Don’t feel pressured to buy something just because your stylist has spent time pulling looks for you; they will understand as long as you’re upfront and polite. Let them know what you like and don’t like because it will better your relationship, especially if you continue to work together. Depending on the retailer, your stylist will be paid an hourly rate during your session and if you do make a purchase, they will most likely make a small commission as well.

Learn how to wear trends. It might just be me, but sometimes I find the cutest piece and have no idea how to wear it. That’s exactly what a personal shopper is good for! I don’t usually buy items that work for only one occasion and would love to be able to easily mix and match new finds with the rest of my closet. A stylist is good at helping you come up with multiple ways to wear each piece. They can provide you with options that you might not have thought of on your own.

Gets you thinking outside the box. Style rut? No problem. Tell your stylist what you’re hoping to achieve, whether it be mastering a new trend or adding some flair to your neutral-colored wardrobe. Sometimes a stylist can offer up style choices that are new and exciting but still work with your existing wardrobe.

Eliminate unnecessary energy trying to find an item. It’s the worst when you’re looking for something specific and can’t seem to find it anywhere. Your stylist will search high and low for that item in your size and specification. Then all you have to do is show up to try it on. This is incredibly useful when you’re on the hunt for the best of the best.

Stores that offer Personal Shopping Services

Anthropologie. From its well-curated decor and signature Volcano scent; walking into Anthropologie is like a dream. They have clothes for all occasions and I’m a big fan of their jewelry and girly tops.

Banana Republic. They have some of the best sales and most on-trend styles. Stock up on your basics, business casual pieces, and off-duty looks.

J.Crew. My go-to for almost everything. I love their toothpick jeans (I own these in several colors), their jewelry, and their novelty sweaters and blouses. The quality is the best.

Madewell. Sister store to J.Crew. They have a great mix of everyday staples with a twist and the quality is top notch.

Macy’s. I haven’t ventured to Macy’s in quite some time, but they have a massive selection of everything and always have a sale.

Nordstrom. When I think of personal styling services, I always think Nordstrom. They are known for their superior customer service and recently expanded their selection to include J.Crew, BaubleBar, and Loren Hope and many others.

Club Monaco. Beautiful high-quality pieces. Every piece I own from here I have bought with no regrets. It’s all beautiful and well-made.

My Style Suite (WA only). Schedule a style session and they will shop the entire mall prior to your appointment. Simply tell them the occasion you’re shopping for or the look you want to achieve and they do all the hard work for you! All you have to do is show up and have fun and if you decide to purchase anything, you can do it right there.

If you like the idea of personal shopping, but don’t have the time to do it in person, you can always look into online-only options like Stitch Fix as well.

Blouse: Loft (similar) via ThredUp | Jeans: Jag c/o (similar) | Necklace: J.Crew (similar) | Earrings: Ann Taylor (old) | Tote: Anguay Designs (borrowed) | Shoes: Paul Green | Lipstick: Wet n Wild (Smokin Hot Pink) | Nail polish: Rooted Woman c/o (color: Favored)

Photo’s by Luba Kochubey Portraits

How to Wear the Bell Sleeve Trend

What do you guys think of the bell sleeve trend? Do you love it? I'm a little on the fence, but do have some pointers if you want to give it a try. It really comes down to two things: sleeve length and fabric. What do you guys think of the bell sleeve trend? Do you love it? I'm a little on the fence, but do have some pointers if you want to give it a try. It really comes down to two things: sleeve length and fabric.What do you guys think of the bell sleeve trend? Do you love it? I'm a little on the fence, but do have some pointers if you want to give it a try. It really comes down to two things: sleeve length and fabric. What do you guys think of the bell sleeve trend? Do you love it? I'm a little on the fence, but do have some pointers if you want to give it a try. It really comes down to two things: sleeve length and fabric.What do you guys think of the bell sleeve trend? Do you love it? I'm a little on the fence, but do have some pointers if you want to give it a try. It really comes down to two things: sleeve length and fabric.What do you guys think of the bell sleeve trend? Do you love it? I’m a little on the fence, but do have some pointers if you want to give it a try. It really comes down to two things: sleeve length and fabric.

How to Wear the Bell Sleeve Trend

Some of the tops I’ve tried have been too long in the sleeve. If you struggle with the same problem, be sure to check out the petite section. You don’t have to be small all over to wear petite. If you’re looking for a shorter sleeve length, pant, or hem, the petite section is the way to go.  If you can’t quickly find a petite option that you like, remember it might take you several tries to find the right one.

Since I am larger on top (broad shoulders, large chest and midsection), I have to be careful of my fabric choices. If you have a similar frame, go for thin, form-fitting materials. Even cotton options can be too blousy and make you appear larger then you are.

I found this silk, bell sleeve blouse on sale and I absolutely love it. It fits all of my requirements: decent sleeve length, lightweight, and flattering. If you don’t want to spend a lot of money on this trend, check out Forever 21, H&M, or Zara for more affordable options.

Styling this trend is pretty easy; you can dress it down (e.g., jeans or shorts) or dress it up with a pencil skirt or pant. Depending on your style preference,  you can either do a print or solid.

Now, I’m not much of a trendsetter, but this pale pink knit is right up my alley. For the most part, it looks like a typical sweater minus the sleeves. The sleeves are pretty subtle compared to most styles I’ve seen. I also like wearing this sweater with a jacket and letting the sleeves poke out. So cute!

Will you be giving the bell sleeve trend a try?

Sweater: Ann Taylor (here & here)| Jeans: Jag c/o (similar) | Earrings: J.Crew (another cute option) |  Rings: Fresh Tangerine (Heart ring) (Meandering ring) | Boots: DSW (similar) | Lipstick: Wet n Wild (Smokin Hot Pink) | Nail polish: Rooted Woman c/o (color: Favored)

Photo’s by Luba Kochubey Portraits

The Best Denim Brands I’ve Found So Far

I remember when premium denim was all the rage, but now I feel like you can wear whatever you want, with the exception that they must be flattering. I remember when premium denim was all the rage, but now I feel like you can wear whatever you want, with the exception that they must be flattering. I remember when premium denim was all the rage, but now I feel like you can wear whatever you want, with the exception that they must be flattering. I remember when premium denim was all the rage, but now I feel like you can wear whatever you want, with the exception that they must be flattering. I remember when premium denim was all the rage (e.g., 7 For All Mankind and Citizens of Humanity), but now I feel like you can wear whatever you want, with the exception that they must be flattering. In order to help you navigate through the difficult task of finding great denim, I have compiled a list of my favorites.

The Best Denim Brands I’ve Found So Far

AG denim. Denim at its finest! Perfectly distressed and aged to perfection.

I can still remember my first pair of AGs. They were a distressed pair of boyfriend jeans that I wore so much the holes became too large and were no longer acceptable to be seen in public.

Another style that I liked was The Stilt Cigarette Leg jean, a traditional straight-legged jean. I wore this style for several years before the skinny came around. I was obsessed! The only reason I started to look for other options was because the leg opening was a little too large when I tried to roll them the way I wanted.

I eventually replaced my Stilts with The Legging Super Skinny. If you’re on the lookout for a great pair of distressed denim, this is the only pair you need. They are super soft and don’t stretch out. The holes also hit me at the knee instead of above or below like some others do.

A pair of AGs will set you back but are worth every penny. I recommend putting away some cash for these ones – you will not be disappointed!

J.Crew Toothpick. I’ve always been a big fan of the toothpick jean. The cut is fitted through the hips and thigh with a super skinny leg. I have large calves so the leg can be a little tight at first but not unbearably so. The inseam is my favorite; it’s very Audrey Hepburn-like with a cropped ankle. This style also comes in a variety of colors and prints, not just the standard blue denim wash.

Loft Modern Skinny (super cute distressed pair). This jean might be my absolute favorite and is affordable too, especially with Loft’s weekly promotions! The quality is a little lacking though and I’ve worn through a lot of pairs. I usually wear them out in the thigh, but will admit that I’m grabbing for these multiple times a week. They come in a lot of great colors and are great for work.

Runners Up

  • Banana Republic: cute styles with a moderate price point.
  • Gap: love their skinny denim but they do stretch out.
  • Madewell: their skinny fits similar to J.Crew, but I still like J.Crew’s better. They also have a hint of stretch and are longer in length.
  • Old Navy: the Rockstar is awesome and super affordable but does fade quickly in the wash and the material is very thin.

Fashion Tip: another great place to find denim is at your local thrift store. They usually have a large variety of gently used denim at a great price point.

What are your favorite denim brands?

Sweater: Marshalls (similar) | Jeans: Jag c/o (similar) | Earrings: Ann Taylor (similar) | Bracelet: J.Crew (similar) | Ring: Madewell | Purse: Old Navy (similar) | Shoes: Paul Green | Lipstick: Wet n Wild (Smokin Hot Pink)

📷’s by Luba Kochubey Portraits

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