Lace & Pearls

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

Spring Wardrobe Challenge Outfit #4 – The Knit Dress and Why You Need One

I've never really been a fan of the knit dress, but now I understand why they are so popular. They're easy to style, pack well, and can be dressed up or down. What's fun about this dress is the color-block detail and contrasting blue and white vertical stripes. It's a great dress for now and later! I've never really been a fan of the knit dress, but now I understand why they are so popular. They're easy to style, pack well, and can be dressed up or down. What's fun about this dress is the color-block detail and contrasting blue and white vertical stripes. It's a great dress for now and later! I've never really been a fan of the knit dress, but now I understand why they are so popular. They're easy to style, pack well, and can be dressed up or down. What's fun about this dress is the color-block detail and contrasting blue and white vertical stripes. It's a great dress for now and later!This series is part of the 10X10 Spring Challenge. For more information on what it is and how it works, click here.

I’ve never really been a fan of the knit dress, but now I understand why they are so popular. They’re easy to style, pack well, and can be dressed up or down. What’s fun about this dress is the color-block detail and contrasting blue and white vertical stripes. It’s a great dress for now and later!

The Knit Dress and Why You Need One

  • Get ready quick. It takes the guesswork out of getting ready. Depending on the weather, you can either go bare leg or wear tights. Then top things off with your outerwear or a lightweight sweater. You can also get creative and style this dress with a cute pair of sneakers, wedges, or flats.
  • Wear on multiple occasions. What’s great about this dress is that it works for the office by adding a lightweight blazer, you can wear it on vacation, or even when running errands. The lightweight material and length make this dress super flattering and comfortable. Perfect for wherever the day takes you!
  • Great for vacations. This dress is perfect for travel since it won’t take up much space in your luggage. It will also pack well and need very little ironing, especially if you roll the dress instead of folding.
  • It makes you think outside of the box. It’s like the modern take on the little black dress but a bit more interesting. You can wear it as a skirt (shown here), with a vest (today’s post) or with a lightweight jacket. It would also look cute with a tied waist blouse or a white denim jacket.
  • You can change up the overall look and feel with accessories. Wouldn’t this dress look so cute with a floral or striped scarf? I like the idea of mixing prints, especially in the warmer months.

If you are in the market for a knit dress, look no further than J.Jill for some cute spring essentials. They have a plethora of great options.

Are you a fan of the knit dress? Share in the comments.

Shop the post:

Dress: J.Jill c/o | Sweater: Club Monaco (similar) | Necklace: Lace & Pearls Jewelry | Booties: Paul Green (similar) | Purse: Ted Baker (similar) | Lipstick: Urban Decay 1993 c/o

*c/o: courtesy of or gifted.

More From This Series:

📷: Genelyn Jaye Photography 

New Year’s Reflection: Stressed, Overweight and Tired!

This has been the fastest and most challenging year yet! Instead of going the traditional route of choosing a resolution, last year I chose to focus on the word healthy. Getting healthy is still on the forefront for 2018, so again I'll be focusing on that. After all, your health is your first wealth!This has been the fastest and most challenging year yet! Instead of going the traditional route of choosing a resolution, last year I chose to focus on the word healthy. Getting healthy is still on the forefront for 2018, so again I'll be focusing on that. After all, your health is your first wealth!This has been the fastest and most challenging year yet! Instead of going the traditional route of choosing a resolution, last year I chose to focus on the word healthy. Getting healthy is still on the forefront for 2018, so again I'll be focusing on that. After all, your health is your first wealth!This has been the fastest and most challenging year yet! Instead of going the traditional route of choosing a resolution, last year I chose to focus on the word healthy. Getting healthy is still on the forefront for 2018, so again I'll be focusing on that. After all, your health is your first wealth!This has been the fastest and most challenging year yet! Instead of going the traditional route of choosing a resolution, last year I chose to focus on the word healthy. Getting healthy is still on the forefront for 2018, so again I'll be focusing on that. After all, your health is your first wealth!This has been the fastest and most challenging year yet! Instead of going the traditional route of choosing a resolution, last year I chose to focus on the word healthy. Getting healthy is still on the forefront for 2018, so again I’ll be focusing on that. After all, your health is your first wealth!

New Year’s Reflection: Stressed, Overweight and Tired!

Towards the latter half of 2017, I gained over 20 pounds and am currently dealing with a slew of GI problems. I’ve missed more work then I can count and walking into the doctor’s office is becoming routine. We are still in the process of figuring things out and I hope to know more soon.

Along the way, I somehow managed to put on all that weight and have struggled with some other health issues (pre-diabetes and acid reflux). I have spent most of my life watching my weight and eating healthy, so it’s ironic that I’ve managed to get so off track. Plus, none of my clothes fit and I don’t feel that great about how I look and feel.

To help with stress, I have made some changes, like adjusting my work schedule to have every other Friday off. I also joined Orange Theory after being introduced to it by a coworker. I am obsessed! I really feel like it helps my mental state and overall health, so I’m in the process of building up to go 3-4 days a week vs the 2 days I’m going now.

This time next year, I hope to have my health back on track and be down in pounds. It will be great to have more energy and no stomach pain.

On the bright side, I have also accomplished a lot this year! I launched Lace & Pearls Jewelry, created a monthly newsletter, and successfully began partnering with brands. I even befriended some blogger babes and made some new connections that I hope to continue in the new year.

I wish all the best to you in 2018 and thanks again to those of you who continue to read this blog and comment! I apologize that I haven’t been the greatest at responding to comments, but I do read all of them and am grateful for your kindness and support.

Shop the post:

Dress: J.Jill c/o | Vest: Club Monaco (similar) | Necklace: Callura via Zulily c/o | Earrings: Charming Charlie (similar) c/o | Boots: Paul Green (old) | Clutch: DSW | Lashes: First Glance Lashes c/o| Lipstick: Neutrogena MoistureSmooth color stick (Rich Raisin) c/o

*c/o: courtesy of or gifted.

📷’s by  Luba Kochubey Portraits

Dress up your Little Black Dress this Holiday Season

I love a great closet staple as much as the next girl, but it took me years before I purchased a Little Black Dress. Shocker, I know! I'm just not the biggest fan of black. In fact, when I started this blog back in 2014, I refused to wear it at all! I just didn't like it on me and prefer softer color palettes. In the workplace, it's encouraged to dress business casual so after wearing black pants throughout the years, I eventually got up the nerve to venture out of my comfort zone and purchase black in other items. Plus, I would always see cute tops and other clothing in black but wouldn't buy them if they weren't offered in another color. Does anyone else relate?I love a great closet staple as much as the next girl, but it took me years before I purchased a Little Black Dress. Shocker, I know! I’m just not the biggest fan of black. In fact, when I started this blog back in 2014, I refused to wear it at all! I just didn’t like it on me and prefer softer color palettes. In the workplace, it’s encouraged to dress business casual so after wearing black pants throughout the years, I eventually got up the nerve to venture out of my comfort zone and purchase black in other items. Plus, I would always see cute tops and other clothing in black but wouldn’t buy them if they weren’t offered in another color. Does anyone else relate?

Whenever a special occasion is on the rise and you need to look right, reach for your classic LBD! Just because you’re wearing black, that doesn’t mean that you have to dress boring. The sky is the limit, so use today’s photos and tips to help you perfect your LBD.

I love a great closet staple as much as the next girl, but it took me years before I purchased a Little Black Dress. Shocker, I know! I'm just not the biggest fan of black. In fact, when I started this blog back in 2014, I refused to wear it at all! I just didn't like it on me and prefer softer color palettes. In the workplace, it's encouraged to dress business casual so after wearing black pants throughout the years, I eventually got up the nerve to venture out of my comfort zone and purchase black in other items. Plus, I would always see cute tops and other clothing in black but wouldn't buy them if they weren't offered in another color. Does anyone else relate?Little Black Dress – The Look

Choose the Dress: I have seen so many gorgeous black dresses this holiday. When looking for the perfect one, I recommend choosing something with a bit of texture. That can be anything from lace to brocade. This alone can make your dress stand out from the norm and make it easier to dress down for a non-formal occasion. Don’t you love a little versatility when it comes to your clothing choices?

I love a great closet staple as much as the next girl, but it took me years before I purchased a Little Black Dress. Shocker, I know! I'm just not the biggest fan of black. In fact, when I started this blog back in 2014, I refused to wear it at all! I just didn't like it on me and prefer softer color palettes. In the workplace, it's encouraged to dress business casual so after wearing black pants throughout the years, I eventually got up the nerve to venture out of my comfort zone and purchase black in other items. Plus, I would always see cute tops and other clothing in black but wouldn't buy them if they weren't offered in another color. Does anyone else relate?The Topper: The dress is the foundation or canvas of your look, so once that has been decided upon, choose your outerwear, scarf, or shawl option. Be creative and think colorful or textured or both! A nice print would look great, or even faux fur. I recently saw this look from M Loves M loved how she paired her faux fur toggle jacket with her LBD. The pink bow pumps were an added bonus.

Shoes: Definitely go for a color or something sparkly for a non-formal event. I also like a printed pump or flat. So cute! If you are aching to stay warm, go for a riding or OTK (over the knee) boot. Other cute options could be a traditional bootie or Chelsea boot like the ones I’m wearing. If you’re a trendsetter, try the popular sock boot.

I love a great closet staple as much as the next girl, but it took me years before I purchased a Little Black Dress. Shocker, I know! I'm just not the biggest fan of black. In fact, when I started this blog back in 2014, I refused to wear it at all! I just didn't like it on me and prefer softer color palettes. In the workplace, it's encouraged to dress business casual so after wearing black pants throughout the years, I eventually got up the nerve to venture out of my comfort zone and purchase black in other items. Plus, I would always see cute tops and other clothing in black but wouldn't buy them if they weren't offered in another color. Does anyone else relate?Little Black Dress – The Finishing Touch

Accessories: You can go simple or over the top. I’ve been loving my black clutch lately and it has really come in handy for daily wear and special events. Check out last week’s post for a ton of cute clutch options in the shopping widget. Statement jewelry is always fun for the holidays and a nice way to elevate your look. If you’re not a necklace or bracelet person, go for a statement cocktail ring or even a pair of earrings. Find something that embodies your personal style and wear it with confidence!

Makeup: I love false lashes but always struggle to apply them. I usually ask my husband for help (lol) or a friend. If this sounds like you, check out this video. It’s genius! I really wish I saw this years ago. She makes applying lashes a cinch!

How do you keep your LBD from looking drab? Please share in the comments. If you liked today’s post let me know and also remember to follow along on Instagram, Facebook, Pinterest, and Bloglovin.

Shop the post:

Dress: J.Jill c/o | Necklace: Callura via Zulily c/o | Earrings: SugarFix by Baublebar c/o | Ring: Happiness Boutique c/o | Boots: Naturalizer  | Purse: Marc by Marc Jacobs (via thredUP) | Lashes: First Glance Lashes c/o| Lipstick: Neutrogena MoistureSmooth color stick (Rich Raisin) c/o

*c/o: courtesy of or gifted.

📷’s by  Luba Kochubey Portraits

A Versatile Holiday Outfit + Where to Shop

When shopping for your holiday outfit, think functional. Take the faux fur coat for example. Instead of investing in a coat, consider a fur vest or scarf.When shopping for your holiday outfit, think functional. Take the faux fur coat for example. Instead of investing in a coat, consider a fur vest or scarf.When shopping for your holiday outfit, think functional. Take the faux fur coat for example. Instead of investing in a coat, consider a fur vest or scarf.For the next couple of weeks, I will be sharing several holiday-inspired looks. Funny enough, it’s been a long time since I’ve attended a holiday soiree. It’s for this very reason that I recommend not overspending when looking for your holiday outfit and purchasing items that can work long after the holidays.

Fashion Tip: When shopping for your holiday attire, think functional. Take the faux fur coat for example. Instead of investing in a coat, consider a fur vest or scarf to throw over a dress or skirt. Both options can be worn after the holidays with jeans or a more casual look.

A Versatile Holiday Outfit + Where to Shop

Dress: Velour is apparently back in style! I can’t help but think of the infamous Juicy tracksuit and my husband’s snide comment “ain’t no one wearing velour!”, but this dress is surprisingly super cute AND has pockets. The length is perfect and I love the burgundy color. The fabric is also really soft and comfortable. I love how you can manage to still look cute and be semi-warm.

Fashion Tip: When shopping for a holiday dress, go for an LBD (little black dress), or something in a wine or burgundy color. Both colors are great for the holidays, but can be worn on other occasions too. Red is also good depending on the style. Look for a more versatile frock rather than one that screams Christmas, unless that’s what you’re going for then, by all means, do you!

When shopping for your holiday outfit, think functional. Take the faux fur coat for example. Instead of investing in a coat, consider a fur vest or scarf.Boots: I needed a casual holiday shoe since I live in Seattle and the weather is unpredictable. I opted for these bronze boots that I’m obsessed with and can wear all winter long. They look super cute with a dress. Bonus points that they’re a comfort shoe and are available in a wide range of sizes.

Accessories:  If you want to purchase something that is more on the festive side, I recommend buying a statement necklace or purse. You can get these type of things at a lower price that won’t break the bank. This necklace is perfect for the holidays and inexpensive. The black clutch is not festive, but I have literally worn it with everything from an LBD to jeans. Look at places like Charming Charlie, DSW, Target, Marshalls, TJ Maxx, and even Forever21 for inexpensive options.


Shop the Post: 

Dress: J.Jill c/o | Boots: Naturalizer | Necklace: Charmie Charlie c/o | Earrings: Baublebar by SugarFix c/o | Clutch: DSW | Lashes: First Glance Lashes c/o | Ring: Happiness Boutique c/o | Lipstick: Neutrogena MoistureSmooth color stick (Rich Raisin) c/o

*c/o: courtesy of or gifted.

How do you keep your holiday outfit versatile? Please share in the comments. If you liked today’s post let me know and also remember to follow along on Instagram, Facebook, Pinterest, and Bloglovin.

📷’s by  Luba Kochubey Portraits

Lace & Pearls Jewelry is Open for Business!

Lace & Pearls Jewelry has officially arrived!!! This passion project has been a long time coming and I'm so excited to share it with you!Lace & Pearls Jewelry has officially arrived!!! This passion project has been a long time coming and I’m so excited to share it with you! You might have seen small mentions here or there but if this is your first time hearing about it, let me get you caught up.

Lace & Pearls Jewelry

If you’ve been reading this blog for a while, you’ve probably seen a recurring theme/fashion tip: accessorize, accessorize, accessorize. Some people are shoe people and others love a good handbag, but I love jewelry! It’s a girl’s best friend in my opinion.

A couple years back, December 2015 to be exact, I decided to take a jewelry class. From that point on, I got the itch to create my own pieces and eventually create an online marketplace to showcase and sell my creations. I toyed with the idea of an Etsy shop but after a discussion with a friend and doing my own research, I decided to go bigger and create an ecommerce store.

Lace & Pearls Jewelry has officially arrived!!! This passion project has been a long time coming and I'm so excited to share it with you!If you love a good signature necklace or something special, you’re in for a treat! All of the pieces in the Lace & Pearls Jewelry line are handmade by me and made of fine materials that include gold-filled, sterling silver, and brass chains along with real stones and pearls. I would describe my pieces as feminine meets minimalism. Everything is meant to feel dainty yet exquisite.

I hope you have fun checking out the site! Don’t forget to sign up for the mailing list and follow/like my Instagram and Facebook page. It would mean the world to me to have your support!

Lace & Pearls Jewelry has officially arrived!!! This passion project has been a long time coming and I'm so excited to share it with you!Inspirational Word

Today’s takeaway is to follow your dreams! I know this is cliche, but honestly, I never thought I would see this into fruition. The truth is, I didn’t really think much about it. Instead, I just kept moving forward because I knew that if I let myself get in my head, I would just hold myself back. During this entire process, I almost felt like it wasn’t me, but an alter-ego that was pushing me forward. I attributed that to staying out of my head. I will admit some days I did get in my head (let’s be real, a lot of days), but for the most part, I just persevered.

These photos are from earlier this year when it was warm. This was my first time shooting and wearing my pieces. Unfortunately, there are only two of these necklaces with the black onyx druzy stone, Life of Aani has one and the other is available on the site. I hope to make another similar piece soon but the stone will be slightly different.

Dress: J.Crew (old) | Necklace: Lace & Pearls Jewelry | Purse: Ted Baker London | Shoes: Josep Seibel | Lipstick: Rimmel London (Crystal Mauve) ℅

Lace & Pearls Jewelry has officially arrived!!! This passion project has been a long time coming and I'm so excited to share it with you!Thank you!

I have so many people to thank for helping get this business off the ground.

Let me know if you have any questions or comments. Thank you all so much!

📷’s by  Luba Kochubey Portraits

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