Who What Wear Archives - Page 2 of 3

How To Wear Lace in The Fall

October 25, 2016

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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The Best Closet Staples + Rocksbox Review – 4 Months In

September 6, 2016

📷’s by Luba Kochubey Portraits

Closet staples are great for two reasons; capsule wardrobes and building your closet’s foundation. I won’t be covering capsule wardrobes, but if you’re interested in learning more about them be sure to check out Unfancy. Caroline does an excellent job of breaking down the process into actionable steps.

Whenever I shop a Nordstrom sale, I get so tired of hearing that it is a great time to stock up on staples. I hate staples, they are so basic. But now I know better. Closet staples are the building blocks of a great wardrobe.

When I was choosing an outfit for this shoot, I was a little frantic. I felt like I didn’t have anything new to wear. I made a conscious effort to rely on my staples (distressed denim, white blouse, and utility jacket).

Most people have these pieces, and if you don’t, they are easy to find on the cheap. I do however, recommend investing in a nice pair of jeans and a white blouse. Investing in both of these will save you in the long run.

Closet Staples

The Utility Jacket

When I got this jacket I wasn’t sure I would wear it very much, but now I go for it weekly. Even though the recent weather has been warm, I still need a light weight jacket in the mornings and for the office. It’s super light weight and can be thrown into my tote bag when it’s not in use.

I have worn this piece with a chambray dress, black skinny jeans, and now this pair of distressed denim. It would also look super cute with a simple tee and skirt. That’s four options right there with just one jacket.

The White Blouse

A white blouse is a classic and looks good on everyone. You can wear it with any bottom (skirt, jeans, shorts). You could even put it under a dress. Do yourself a favor and buy two so you always have this option in the morning.

Distressed Denim

Do you really need an explanation for this one? I didn’t think so, but just in case, let me stress again that a good pair of denim will keep you looking your best. I am partial to distressed denim because I never like to look too dressed up. The distressing keeps things casual and fun. When you find a brand or cut that works, I recommend getting a couple washes or colors.

All of the accessories in today’s post are from Rocksbox, a monthly subscription service. This month I seriously fell in love with every piece. If you’re curious about Rocksbox you can check out my other reviews (month one, month two, and month three). Interested in signing up? Use code laceandpearlsblogxoxo at checkout to receive your first month free.

Closet essentials will de-stress your mornings. If the above items aren’t your staples of choice, find a few that are and make them work for you. What are your favorites? I would love it if you would share them in the comments.

*Rocksbox graciously provided me with a free 6 month trial, but all opinions are my own.

8 Tips for Defining Your Personal Style

August 11, 2016

📷’s by Luba Kochubey Portraits

Blouse: Target Who What Wear (similar) | Denim: Ann Taylor | Necklace: Gorjana (similar) (via Rocksbox) use code laceandpearlsblogxoxo at checkout to receive your first month free | Gold bracelet: Tory Burch for Fitbit| Pearl Cuff: Pretty Particular c/o (use code laceandpearls to receive 20% off your order) | Ring: Madewell | Purse: via thredUp | Sandals: Josef Sebiel | Lipstick: Wet n Wild (Smokin Hot Pink)

This post is for anyone who has ever suffered from the dreaded feeling of having nothing to wear. You know the scenario, it’s early morning and you’re in a rush to head out the door. You look at a closet full of clothes, but there are no wearable options.

Knowing who you are and what you like will make getting ready a cinch. Keep reading for tips on defining your personal style.

Know who you are and what you like. How does this translate to the clothes that you wear?

I grew up in a pretty sheltered environment. I always like to play by the rules and I am a perfectionist. I feel best when my mind and body are at ease, and life feels balanced. I also enjoy cutesy things (critter sweaters or anything with ruffles).

When getting ready, I always go for comfort (minimizing my waist) and something girly. These two things define my personal style and what I like.

What words or phrases define your personal style?

Know What You Don’t Like

If you struggle with knowing what you like, start by figuring out what you don’t like. From there, everything else will fall into place. Easy right?

These are the building blocks for defining your personal style.

Assess and Clean Out Your Closet

I recommend that you take everything out of your closet, and assess each piece. Ask yourself these questions:

When was the last time I wore this? And how often do I reach for it? If you can’t answer this question it’s time to sell, donate, or giveaway that piece.
Does it still fit? If something no longer fits, there is no reason to keep it. If you’ve gained weight and are loosing, keep it. If you’re on the opposite spectrum, get rid of it. I promise you if you do lose weight you will want to celebrate and buy something new. Win win.
Do I love it? If the answer is no, then you know what to do.
Does it need repair? Get it fixed or donate it.

Identify Gaps in Your Closet

After you’ve purged, it’s time to make a list of what you need. What would you like your personal style to be? Do you want to incorporate more color, dresses, and skirts into your wardrobe? Make a list and keep it handy for the next shopping trip.

Curate Pinterest Inspiration Boards

Create a few boards on Pinterest and break it out by season, categories, etc. Be creative and have fun. Once you’re done, review your pins and take note of the styles that you pinned the most. Some people will have more than one style that they identify with, so don’t worry if this is you. Be sure to download the Pinterest phone app so you can reference your boards while shopping.

Make Sure Your Closet Choices Are Interchangeable

When you go to the store, avoid pieces that don’t work with the other items in your closet. The last thing you need is a closet full of pieces that don’t work.

If you are unsure if a piece will work, take it home and try to create several outfits using that one piece. If you find this exercise challenging, then return the item. Use that money to invest in classic, timeless pieces that you can wear every season.

Focus on building more outfits over picking out individual pieces.

Take a Selfie

On days that you’re feeling stylish, snap a photo so you can remember what you liked about that look. This will help you curate similar outfits that define your personal style.

Choose a Signature Piece

My signature piece is my jewelry. Whatever yours is, figure it out and own it! No one can do you better than you.

My Personal Style – Girly and Classic

Today’s look is an “Asa outfit.” From the ruffle to the color palette, every thing is girly.

When it comes to your personal style, remain true to yourself. But do give yourself a little push to try something new. You might find that you like it.

What is your best tip for finding your personal style? Share and inspire others by commenting below.

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How to Make the Drop Waist Dress Work For You

July 19, 2016

📷’s by Luba Kochubey Portraits

Drop waist dresses are a favorite of mine. They are great for covering the midsection and are non-constricting. They do have the stigma of only working for certain body types, but with my tips, it can work for you.

I have never been one to follow fashion rules, but I do try to dress for my body type. I have an athletic build, broad shoulders, and just shy of 5’4″. I’m narrow through the hips with a large bust and midsection. I usually stick to fabrics that drape nicely, such as silk or chiffon. Sometimes I still wear items that are not the most flattering, just because I like them. The drop waist dress is one of those pieces. It’s just so girly. I can’t resist.

Tips for Wearing the Drop Waist Dress

Slender – the drop waist dress is ideal for those who are slender with a small bust and hips. This type of dress allows you to show off your toned arms, collarbone, and legs. You can wear yours fitted or loose, but if you’re petite, a loose cut will overwhelm your frame.

Apple Shape – if you carry weight in your midsection, this dress does a great job of minimizing this area. Be sure to avoid those that are more fitted through the waist. While a longer hemline may give you the appearance of a longer torso, it will also make your legs look shorter (stick to a short hemline).

Hourglass & Pear Shape – the drop waist dress places a strong emphasis on the hips. Choose one that is slim through the waist and has strong details along the neckline. This will pull the attention away from your hips.

Plus size – if you carry your weight in the midsection or are straight up and down, this dress will flatter. Opt for one that is loose fitting with a waist that falls low in the hips. This will elongate your figure and show off your legs.

How I Wear the Drop Waist

I am wearing a chambray drop waist dress in a petite medium. I went with a smaller dress size than my norm (I usually wear a large) and chose petite instead of regular. If you’re on the shorter side, always check out the petite section, even if you’re curvy.

The jacket is another score from the Target Who What Wear Collection. See all my WWW looks from this past month. The bag was a major score from Old Navy. They seriously have the best handbag selection! Don’t take my word for it, check it out after you finish reading this post. My shoes are Cob Hill and the cute necklace is from Loft (my kryptonite).

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Tips For Styling a Peplum Top

July 7, 2016

📷’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

Keep it simple. Avoid extra fabric around the hip area if you’re curvy.
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.
Wear a heel. To elongate the frame, wear a heel or platform shoe.
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.

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).
To accentuate your waist, wear a peplum top or jacket that falls above the hips.
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.
For a slimming effect wear all black and opt for a pencil skirt.
To avoid looking short, steer clear of long skirts and dresses. Go for a length that falls above the knee.

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How To Wear Lace in The Fall

How to pull off lace during Fall/Winter

Lace for all!

The Best Closet Staples + Rocksbox Review – 4 Months In