Clothes Speak First

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Saying "hello" to someone is usually how we start our conversations. Although, my toddler prefers to yell "Mama" when she has something to say. But, in all actuality, our clothes usually get the first "word" in. So, I love the idea of wearing a tee that simply says, "Hello," like this one from Frances Vintage. In my head it seems like it would start any conversation off on the right foot and give the appearance that you're a welcoming person.

This tee can be found at Frances Vintage and is locally made by Hello Apparel. I love the floral pattern on the letters. If you're a print minimalist, this is the perfect way to incorporate the spring floral trend. Not to mention, the shirt is 100% cotton, which means I can throw it in the washing machine and it's incredibly comfortable.

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I styled the t-shirt with a pleated maxi skirt and glitter belt to add a feminine flair. However, there's nothing more classic than jeans and a t-shirt.

Photo by Kym Ventola.

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Sunday Life

This blog has always been a place for sharing fashion inspiration and my latest projects, but with this relaunch I've decided to share more about my personal life. Part of that is a look into my home life with Ryan and Elle.

This past weekend was very relaxing and I got to do quite a bit of cooking. I started out as a terrible cook, but since the launch of Pinterest in 2011 I have been a decent one. Yet, another thing I owe to the great social inspiration tool.

While I cook Elle usually plays with her toys in the kitchen. I love our home so much, and the kitchen is really the place where we spend most of our time. Even when guests come over we all congregate there. Although, I suspect it's food that draws us there more than the space itself.

As far as what I wear on the weekends, you can count on me living in jeans. I found this cute, comfy t-shirt at Urban Outfitters (you can get 2 for $24) recently, and I paired it with a J.Crew cardigan and polka dot oxfords from GAP. They don't sell the oxfords anymore, but they do have amazing polka dot pointy flats. I also wore a special Kate Spade necklace Ryan got me a couple years ago. I wear it A LOT! (Now I'm obsessing over this KS necklace, click here).

How do you spend your weekends? What do you typically wear? I'd love to hear!

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Sometimes when your creative juices are low you just need to get out there make something. This past summer while business was slow, longtime coconspirator and photographer, Michelle Herrick, asked to collaborate on a test shoot. There was no end goal of getting it published and there was no paying client, there was just an opportunity to work with an amazing model, Gwen from Agency AZ, and to make some magic happen.

I love the edgy quality of these images. It's so unlike my style, and that's the best part. It's good to stretch yourself and go beyond your comfort zone. The clothes are all thrifted and vintage pieces too, which is also very different for me. My friend Sara Chambers has a wonderful online shop, and was so kind to share her clothes with us.

Azure Schaeffer did an amazing job with the makeup. All together the collaboration was a wonderful experience and invigorating during such slow time in Arizona.

Capes Aren't Just for Superheroes

Wintertime is Arizona is the best. It feels exactly like fall in the midwest. The leaves start to fall off the trees (FINALLY) and the air is crisp. The most you need to wear is a light jacket or sweater or, in my case, a cape to stay warm. I got this beautiful cherry red cape from ChicWish last year (try this grey one), but this is the first time I have worn it. It got shoved into the back of my closet and I completely forgot about it.

Since dusting it off, I have received so many compliments on it. You can wear this cape with or without a belt. I like it with a belt so that my waist is defined. I paired it with a patterned shirt so that my whole outfit wasn't color blocked.

Try out a cape if you find one you like. It's a unique and stylish alternative to your trusty sweater.

My Style Philosophy

What you value influences how you shop and what you wear. Do you value quality craftsmanship? Do you value whether something is eco-friendly or American-made? Do brand names matter? Do you believe less is more? Is modesty important to you? Many of us have a personal style philosophy that we use as our shopping filter before we even pick up a garment and ask whether the color is complementary, the style is flattering and the price is right. My philosophy is style is expression, not consumption. So, I often ask myself, "Do I really need this?" I believe that you can express your personality, creativity and values through your clothing without having to buy a lot. In fact, I think when given limits we show more creativity and problems solving. I'm sure we could all create five new outfits if we just stood in our closets for 10 minutes putting different pieces together.

Try it this week. See if you can come up with five new outfits with things you already own rather than buying a new top at Target even if it is only $4.99.

Photo by Imaginale Design Modeling, hair and makeup by SN Makeup Styling by AVE Styles Floral crown from Mignone Handmade