Lace & Pearls

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

4 Blogging Tips For New Bloggers

One thing that appealed to me about blogging was the fact that bloggers were everyday people who were finding their voice and inspiring others to do the same. I also liked how it was a way to be creative and to work on my writing. One thing that appealed to me about blogging was the fact that bloggers were everyday people who were finding their voice and inspiring others to do the same. I also liked how it was a way to be creative and to work on my writing.I was recently featured in the Style Collective newsletter. Not familiar with SC? It’s literally the go-to for all things blogging and I wish it was around when I first started. It would have saved me a lot of blood, sweat, and tears! With SC, I no longer need to hop around to various sources to get what I need since it’s all in one place. The site and the podcast provide a wealth of knowledge for entrepreneurs and influencers and my favorite features include the blog, blog prep kits, and the e-courses and guides! The community element and forum topics are a huge plus too.

For the feature, I was asked to share a bit about myself and add 3 blogging tips for new bloggers. I thought these tips might be of some value to my audience and I’ve added a bonus tip just for Lace & Pearls readers. Enjoy!

One thing that appealed to me about blogging was the fact that bloggers were everyday people who were finding their voice and inspiring others to do the same. I also liked how it was a way to be creative and to work on my writing.

I started my blog after not being able to grow and pursue a long-term career at Nordstrom. I was there for 10 years and eventually left and transitioned into healthcare. I quickly learned that I missed being immersed in fashion, so I started my blog. If a company wasn’t going to support my dream then I was going to do it on my own! One thing that appealed to me about blogging was the fact that bloggers were everyday people who were finding their voice and inspiring others to do the same. I also liked how it was a way to be creative and to work on my writing.

For a little more about me and my background check out The Girl Behind The Blog.

One thing that appealed to me about blogging was the fact that bloggers were everyday people who were finding their voice and inspiring others to do the same. I also liked how it was a way to be creative and to work on my writing.4 Blogging Tips For New Bloggers

Use high-quality photos. I wish I hired a photographer from the beginning; I would definitely be further along in my journey. Even if you can’t afford a professional photographer, partner up with a fellow blogger who knows how to use a camera and take pictures for each other. Another option is to hire an intern from a local college. You could even pick up the skill yourself! I know several bloggers that shoot their own outfits.

Don’t compare your beginning to someone else’s middle. The people who are killing it in the industry have been doing their thing for a long time. Their success didn’t come overnight so don’t expect yours to. If you don’t believe me, go through some of your favorite bloggers archives and see their beginnings. I know mine was rough. Keep your head up and don’t get bogged down with what everyone else is doing and just do you!

Be consistent. Blogging is hard and you wear so many hats! The output truly doesn’t reflect the time and energy spent to make things happen. My biggest tip to a new blogger is to know your why and be consistent. If you’re only going to blog twice a month stick with it and follow through. Don’t start and drop off for several months and then decide to start back up. This is not good for you, your followers, or the brands that want to work with you.

Know your why. When someone tells me that they want to start a blog, I always want to know their why. Knowing this alone will determine if blogging is something they should pursue. If you want to blog because it looks fun or you want to make lots of money, I would pump the breaks.  Blogging is a lot of work, and yes it can be fun, but in reality it’s a lot of time and energy and you won’t see the pay off right away. People who have a message to share or are skilled in a particular area have the potential to be great bloggers. If people are always asking for your advice on how to do something and it’s something you’re passionate about, then I say go for it!

One thing that appealed to me about blogging was the fact that bloggers were everyday people who were finding their voice and inspiring others to do the same. I also liked how it was a way to be creative and to work on my writing.What blogging tips do you have? Share in the comments.

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Top: Nordstrom Halogen (similar) | Jeans: NYDJ | Necklace: Lace & Pearls Jewelry – Ana pendant | Earrings: Sugarfix by Bauble Bar (old) c/o | Booties: Famous Footwear (similar) c/o | Purse: Marc by Marc Jacobs (similar)

📷’s by  Luba Kochubey Portraits

How To Wear Lace in The Fall

Lace is a material that I will never grow tired of. It's beautifully timeless and looks great with jeans. My favorite lace combo? Understated like the top in today's post. It's subtle but romantic. Lace is a material that I will never grow tired of. It's beautifully timeless and looks great with jeans. My favorite lace combo? Understated like the top in today's post. It's subtle but romantic.Lace is a material that I will never grow tired of. It's beautifully timeless and looks great with jeans. My favorite lace combo? Understated like the top in today's post. It's subtle but romantic. Lace is a material that I will never grow tired of. It's beautifully timeless and looks great with jeans. My favorite lace combo? Understated like the top in today's post. It's subtle but romantic.Lace is a material that I will never grow tired of. It's beautifully timeless and looks great with jeans. My favorite lace combo? Understated like the top in today's post. It's subtle but romantic.📷’s by  Luba Kochubey Portraits

Top: Who What Wear | Denim: Loft (similar)| Bag: Old Navy (similar)| Jewelry: Rocksbox (use code laceandpearlsblogxoxo at checkout to receive your first month free) | Shoes: Josef Seibel | Lipstick: Make Up For Ever C211 (Rose Wood) c/o Influester

Lace is a material that I will never grow tired of. It’s beautifully timeless and looks great with jeans. My favorite lace combo? Understated like the top in today’s post. It’s subtle but romantic. Plus, y’all know I love a good peplum! Still need convincing? Read this post on tips for wearing lace. I’ve also put together a fun roundup of lace pieces at the end of this post.

How to pull off lace during Fall/Winter

The key to wearing lace in the colder months is layers. I recommend pairing a chunky cardigan over a lace blouse. This brings a more romantic and cozy feel to a look. Another fun combination is to wear a cropped sweater over a lace top, leaving a peek of lace to show. To dress down a lace dress, try wearing an oversize sweater jacket and ankle boots. For the office, I would opt for a chunky turtleneck sweater worn with a lace pencil skirt.

This gorgeous blouse is from Target’s Who What Wear collection. I’m not usually a big fan of black but the lace neckline and sleeves make it feel less dense. The colorful accessories (all Rocksbox) and pale pink purse make the black top feel fun and upbeat. I’m still obsessed with last month’s Loren Hope cuff  and have been wearing it ever since. Use code laceandpearlsblogxoxo at checkout to receive your first month free. The jeans are an oldie but goodie from Loft. Here is a similar alternative (my absolute favorite).

I’ve worn these Josef Seibel open toe booties all season long. I also have the brass color. They are super comfortable (I have the worst time with shoes) and on-trend.

Lace for all!

I think that everyone can pull off lace to some extent. Start with something simple, like a lace tee or blouse. When you’re ready to go for the kill, opt for a dress or skirt. Click on the image to shop.

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5 Tips for Achieving Effortless Style

When I think of effortless style, I picture that cool girl. You know, the one with the perfectly imperfect hair and the confidence to match. She doesn't care what others think (or at least appears that way).When I think of effortless style, I picture that cool girl. You know, the one with the perfectly imperfect hair and the confidence to match. She doesn't care what others think (or at least appears that way).When I think of effortless style, I picture that cool girl. You know, the one with the perfectly imperfect hair and the confidence to match. She doesn't care what others think (or at least appears that way).When I think of effortless style, I picture that cool girl. You know, the one with the perfectly imperfect hair and the confidence to match. She doesn't care what others think (or at least appears that way).📷’s by  Luba Kochubey Portraits

Top: Loft | Denim: Ann Taylor | Purse: Rebecca Minkoff (similar) | Bracelet: Tory Burch for Fitbit (now on sale!)| Ring: Stella & Dot | Shoes: Josef Seibel | Necklace: Rebekah J. Designs| Lipstick: Wet n Wild (Stoplight Red)

When I think of effortless style, I picture that cool girl. You know, the one with the perfectly imperfect hair and the confidence to match. She doesn’t care what others think (or at least appears that way).

Here are 5 tips for achieving that effortless style.

Plan Outfits the Night Before

Growing up, I would always plan my outfits the night before. Getting up early is hard enough, so why not do yourself a favor and make getting ready simple. Save that energy for something else.

Have a Dress That Works for Most Occasions

Whenever a special occasion rolls around, I am always scrambling for the perfect dress. My solution – shop the sales. Even if you don’t have an event coming up, it’s much better to have a dress in your repertoire rather than starting from scratch. Be sure to look for ones that work for the office, formal events, and weddings.

Invest in a Good Shoe

Shoes will make or break an outfit. I have the worst time finding a comfortable shoe.

One time when I was working retail, I had the cutest outfit on, but my shoes had seen better days. My manager took one look at me and demanded that I buy a new pair or go home. It was so embarrassing, but from that point on, I knew that shoes were important.

The lesson – invest in a good pair of shoes. Even if you can’t afford a high-end pair, make sure the ones you do buy are comfortable and look nice.

Repeat Your Favorites

This is always a good idea. I love repeating outfits and finding new ways to wear them. When you wear the pieces you love, you will always look more confident.

Look to Pinterest for Style Inspiration

I can’t stress this enough: Pinterest is the answer to all your style needs. From curating your dream closet to studying up on the latest trends, there is no style task too big for Pinterest. Create some secret boards and get started.

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6 Essential Ways to Start Dressing Confidently

Dressing confidently has more to do with how you feel on the inside than your outward appearance. The best way to achieve this is to know what you like.

Dressing confidently has more to do with how you feel on the inside than your outward appearance. The best way to achieve this is to know what you like and what makes you feel the most comfortable.

6 Essential Ways to Start Dressing Confidently

Dressing confidently has more to do with how you feel on the inside than your outward appearance. The best way to achieve this is to know what you like.

Define Your Personal Style

It’s ok to take inspiration from various trends but make them your own. People are always looking for new inspiration and something that is different. Be the leader, and others will follow. If not, own the parts that make you unique, and keep on stepping. Do what works for you. And when all else fails, rely on your signature uniform aka personal style.

Dressing confidently has more to do with how you feel on the inside than your outward appearance. The best way to achieve this is to know what you like.

Dress For Your Body Type

If you take anything from today’s post, remember this: dress for your body type. There is nothing worse than wearing something that is too tight or too short. Both will make you lack confidence. Instead, focus on your best features and play up your strengths. Or work on minimizing/taking the focus away from areas that you don’t love. My trouble area is my stomach, so I always wear a flowy top that is not constricting. Stay within your comfort zone, but don’t be afraid to try something new.

Dressing confidently has more to do with how you feel on the inside than your outward appearance. The best way to achieve this is to know what you like.

Know The Best Colors For Your Skin Tone

I think most people know what colors look best on them. But if you don’t, take some time to experiment and see what colors flatter you most. A good way to figure this out is to take a photo. Also, listen to the feedback from others. I recently wore a  bright colored top (featured here) and received so many compliments on the color.

Allow Time When Getting Ready

Get up early or plan more time to primp when needed. No one likes to be in a rush, especially when trying to look your best. Allow time to get your brows just right or add some curls to your tresses. The payoff will be rewarding and just the confidence booster you need.

Dressing confidently has more to do with how you feel on the inside than your outward appearance. The best way to achieve this is to know what you like.

Do Not Experiment Last Minute

The day of a special occasion or a big business meeting is not a good time to experiment. Leave the innovation to a day when you have time and are not expected to be anywhere.

Dressing confidently has more to do with how you feel on the inside than your outward appearance. The best way to achieve this is to know what you like.

Dress For The Occasion

Know the occasion and how others will dress. Nothing will make you feel more insecure than being over or under dressed. If you don’t know what to expect, I would error on the side of being overdressed.

Remember, the best option for dressing confidently is to be you! Cliche as it may sound, it’s true. You’ve got this!

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Blouse: BP (similar) | Denim: Banana Republic (similar) | Necklace: Rebekah J. Designs | Ring: Stella & Dot | Sandals: Josef Seibel | Purse: Marc Jacobs (similar) | Lipstick: Wet n Wild (stoplight red)
📷’s by  Luba Kochubey Portraits

Tips For Styling a Peplum Top

Black-peplum-top-1 Black-peplum-top-4 Black-peplum-top-5Black-peplum-top-2 Black-peplum-top-3

📷’s by Luba Kochubey Portraits

Top: Who What Wear (similar)| Pants: J.Crew On Sale! | Shoes: Josef Seibel | Ring: Stella & Dot | Earrings: Lucia K. Jewelry (use Laceandpearls20 to get 20% off your order)| Necklace: Kendra Scott (via Rocksbox) use code laceandpearlsblogxoxo at checkout to receive your first month free |Purse: Michael Michael Kors (similar) |  Lipstick: Wet n Wild (Pretty Persimmon)

I am a big fan of the peplum top! Even though they have the stigma of being costumey and unappealing to men, they can be styled into a modern wardrobe.

It can be challenging to find the perfect fit; many are boxy or voluminous. I recommend choosing one that is slim through the body and going down a size when possible.

This peplum is a bit oversized, but it was the last one and I couldn’t find a smaller size online.  I am still happy I got it. If you know me, I am not a fan of black. I only ever wear it in a pant or coat. I made an exception with this piece given the girly style. The eyelets also gave it a more delicate touch.

Traditionally peplums tops are worn with a pencil skirt. With that said, you want to focus on keeping your bottom half looking slim.

Tips for Wearing a Peplum

  1. Keep it simple. Avoid extra fabric around the hip area if you’re curvy.
  2. Think streamlined. Wear your peplum top or jacket with skinny jeans or a pant. This look is fail-proof and gives a slim silhouette. A wide leg pant would also look great.
  3. Wear a heel. To elongate the frame, wear a heel or platform shoe.
  4. Keep accessories to a minimum. The peplum is your statement piece, so it’s not necessary to pile on the accessories. I did opt for a simple pendant, earrings, and some layering rings.

Choosing the Right Peplum for You

Peplums can have both slimming and voluminous effects. Use these tips to determine the best one for your frame.

  1. If your middle is on the thicker side, choose a flowy peplum with a little extra fabric. This is my tried and true fashion tip for every top I own (not just the peplum).
  2. To accentuate your waist, wear a peplum top or jacket that falls above the hips.
  3. If you’re petite, wear your peplum top with an a-line or full skirt. This look is super cute and will balance out a smaller frame.
  4. For a slimming effect wear all black and opt for a pencil skirt.
  5. To avoid looking short, steer clear of long skirts and dresses. Go for a length that falls above the knee.

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