Refinery 29's Search for the Next Big Style Blogger

Hi friends, I hope you don't mind if I toot my own horn for a second but I am taking part in Refinery 29's Search for the Next Big Style Blogger and I would love your support. 

Now, if you don't believe that I should be considered for this title there is no pressure at all, but if you'd like to send some love my way please follow the link, click the heart by my photo, enter your email, and you're done! Easy as pie.

You are the best + thank you ahead of time {and always} for your amazing support!

Vacation Essentials

In March, I will be leaving chilly Chicago for some time in the sun. I can't remember the last time I took a trip to the beach where my days consisted of walks by the sea, yummy cocktails and sunshine - hence my excitement! However, because I still have 6 weeks until I will be soaking up some rays, I have been obsessively stalking my favorite online stores for a few vacation essentials. Here are a few of my favorite pieces for warmer days to come...

Joie Trudy Striped Dress  //  Kenneth Jay Lane Ring  //  Shimmi Blondie Twisted Bikini  //  Bauble Bar Neon Braid Bracelet  //  Loren Hope Dabney Necklace  //  Kors Michael Kors Eliza Wedges  //  Tory Burch Straw Turnlock Clutch  //  Illesteva Dasha Round Frame Sunglasses  //  Eugenia Kim Striped Fedora  //  Asos Flat Leather Sandals  //  Anya Hindmarch Beach Tote Bag 

Do you have any vacations coming up that you're looking forward to? What is your favorite warm weather essential?

Neon Snow

Current/Elliott Bell Jeans, J.Crew Blythe Blouse in Neon Azalea, J.Crew Tippi Sweater, Francesca's Collection Coat {old}, Steve Madden Heels {no longer available}, Urban Outfitters Necklace, Michael Kors Crystal Stud Earrings, Gorjana Vine Ring, Lancome Lipstick in Red Chiffon

This is the start of outfit posts to come, considering it has been awhile since I shared a glimpse into my wardrobe and I've missed expressing myself through photos. It was a chilly weekend in Chicago but I refuse to let that hinder my obsession with neon pink these days. So, it was only fitting that I pull out my favorite blouse and pair it with some muted neutrals for a casual day of running errands and catching up on life. 

I've been out in the suburbs a lot these past few days helping my parents with a little family emergency {everyone is safe + sound!} and loved this sparkly "love" sign that hangs on our bright green door. It was only fitting that I share the love with all of you on this happy Monday! 

Michelle

{images via Elle UK December 2011}

In the spirit of resurrecting my favorite series from the past, I've decided to bring back my little icon features, and what better way to make a return then with beautiful Michelle Williams. She is receiving a ton of press for "My Week with Marilyn" {which I am dying to see}, but my love for her started when she came out of the Dawson's Creek shadow and rocked this gorgeous frock on the red carpet and this at a movie premiere. Her style is feminine and tasteful, chic and sophisticated, soft and detailed, and always so effortless. I love that she is comfortable in an adorable dress and sky high wedges {such a cute look}, and when it comes to the red carpet she goes for whimsical and refreshing looks that are constant hitters. Pair this style with her bleached pixie cut, and perfection! She is a stunner. Here is how to get her look...

A.P.C. Leopard Woven Silk Dress  //  Milly Caterina Floral Lace Top  //  Mother 'The Looker' Mid-Rise  Denim  //  Jimmy Choo Walsh Patent Leather Flat  //  Stella McCartney Bra + Brief Set  //  Deepa Gurnani Crystal Wave Headband  //  Chloe Leather Wedge Sandals  //  Dara Ettinger Felicia Stud Earrings  //  Dannijo Zoe Ring

Other icons include: Olivia and Mira, Rachel, Mary Kate and Ashley, Jenna, Elin and Leandra, and Kelly

Styling: Fashion and Interiors

It has been awhile since I did a post like this, but I always love seeing the similarities between some of my recent fashion and interior inspiration pins. If you notice, my preferences lately seem to be a neutral backdrop with pink, navy, and gold details - with a mix of leopard print. A pretty good combo if I do say so myself.

Are you on Pinterest? What have you been pinning lately?

{images via: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12}

Color Moment: Neon Pink

DVF Hanka Sequined Silk-Chiffon Top  //  Shimmi Blondie Twisted Bikini  //  Gap Neon Patent Belt  //    DVF Klee Neon and Leather Sandal  //  Cambridge Satchel Company Pink Fluro Satchel for Asos  //  Bauble Bar Neon Stoned Drop Earrings  //  Essie Knockout Pout  //  Zara Ballet Flat {available in stores, similar style} //  Marc by Marc Jacobs Icon Enamel Bracelet  //  J.Crew Cashmere Sweater  //  DVF Sporty Drew Python-effect Leather Tote  //  Asos Plastic Watch

I am having a moment where everything I own needs to be paired with a pop of neon pink.  What do you think? Too much or so good?

Tibi does it again.

Tibi Cheetah Blazer  //  Elizabeth Cole Necklace  //  Topshop Mint Ballet Flats

I posted about Tibi's looks for Spring last week and just came across some more cheetah goodness in this blazer. I love that this pattern is more neutral with only two colors in the cheetah print rather than three, and paired with some minty goodness and gold details I can definitely see this effortlessly styled outfit being a go-to. 

Things To Do

Note to self: style more outfits with my glasses and invest in some fabulous florals.

After a busy + stressful weekend, it is back to reality and a major to-do list. These are two items I need to find time for, after I respond to emails {sorry it has been so long!}, posts for the week, organize my calendar, a few fun events, get ready for tax season, and catch up with all of you! Whew.

Helllllo Monday!

{image 1, 2}

Did you win a styling consultation with me?

Thank you to the 137 lovely ladies that entered Monday's giveaway and shared some sweet comments about my new site. I can't tell you how amazing this week has been for me and my new company. 

Random.org randomly generated lucky number 43, Eileen of A Creative Day! Congrats! You will see an email from me in your inbox shortly.

Happy Friday, friends! I have a very busy day but I will be back later to wish you a happy weekend. xoxo

PS: Did you see my three posts from yesterday? All about trends to try: polka dots, brights, and florals. 

{image via}

Trends to Try: Florals

Betsey Johnson Flower Stud Earring  //  ASOS Floral Blazer and Pant, modeled by Krystal  //  UO Ditsy Floral Watch  //  ASOS Floral Leather Satchel  //  Topshop Floral Print Shell  //  Ban.do Pop Flower  //  DVF Floral Print Laptop Case  //  Tory Burch Lane Printed Silk Top  //  Aurelie Bidermann Liberty Print Bracelets  //  Kate Spade 'Garden Society' iPhone Case  //  YSL Maryna Flower Print Wedges

You see, the best thing about a good floral print is that it can be paired with both polka dots and brights. They have always shown face in Spring fashion shows, but this year they are out in full force. So, if you're on the fence, dabble in this feminine detail and pair it with all of the lovely options posted today. Three trends to try, now go get shopping!

Trends to Try: Brights

Asos Starlight Platform Loafers  //  Adia Kibur Neon Chainlink Necklace  //  Gap Neon Border Scarf  // Tibi Silk Camisole  //  Bauble Bar Azure Triad Collar Necklace  //  Tory Burch Patent Leather Eadie Flat  //  Mason by Michelle Mason Silk Maxi Skirt  //  MiH Jeans Star Print Silk Shorts  //  La Mer Neon Simple Wrap Watch  //  Illesteva Round Frame Acetate Glasses  //  Asos Portfolio Clutch  //  Banana Republic Twin Link Bracelet  //  Topshop Pleat Detail Shift Dress

If you're going to invest in the trends this season, please purchase a pop of color. I am a firm believer that color can work wonders on every wardrobe and if this year isn't a sure sign that color goes with everything, I say go for it!

Trends to Try: Polka Dots

Repetto Velvet Dot Ballet Flats  //  Chinti and Parker Polka Dot Cashmere Sweater  //  Michael Kors Polka Dot Shirt Dress  //  DVF Polka Dot Tonda Clutch  //  Marc Jacobs Hot Dot Scarf  //  Marc by Marc Jacobs Dot Bangles  //  Comme de Garcons Polka Dot Cardholder  //  Topshop Spot Ankle Grazer Trousers

Today I will be featuring three trends to try this season, the first being polka dots. I have been a fan of this classic and playful pattern for awhile now {remember this post?}. I love that they can easily be paired with almost every color {especially neons} and mix and matched with other patterns. So, if you tend to lean towards more neutral pieces and are looking to expand into some fun pattern - consider these happy dots. I just purchased these Topshop trousers and am completely smitten.

What inspires your style?

Let's be honest, we all have our personal style pretty much set in stone - I would consider mine classic, preppy and a bit playful with a mix of color and pattern layered in between. I am a huge fan of sophisticated and feminine silhouettes {think these pants and this dress} and I love layers {primarily because I am always cold}. Although, there are times when I open my closet and want to give everything away and start over, but then I say to myself, "Hey Liz, you've got this! You're a stylist, people like you're style, now work some magic on this closet and let's go." So, if you're ever discouraged you know who to call! I digress.

This week, while Victoria is at Alt Summit, she decided to do a Mini-Alt Week on her blog for all of us not in attendance. NOTE: If you are a new blogger, are thinking of starting a blog, need some tips to enhance your blog, or are looking for some motivation - go check out her blog, now. As a blogger, I can't tell you how helpful this series has been. Plus, you'll see some tips from yours truly!

Anywho, one question Victoria asked me was what inspires your blog posts? And in return I thought I would ask my readers, what inspires your style? I mean where do you go for inspiration?

Here are a few of my favorite places to stir up my brain when it comes time to assemble those stylish outfits:

Atlantic-Pacific
This Time Tomorrow
Cupcakes and Cashmere
Cheetah is the New Black
Kendi Everyday
Pinterest
Tumblr
Refinery 29
In Style
Lucky Mag

Also, when I feel like I've been sitting in comfy clothes for far too long discouraged I sometimes head to Michigan Avenue and Oak Street to browse the stores and see what's new. It keeps me in the know, which is important for me and when working with clients.

So I ask, what inspires you when you get dressed in the morning or go shopping with your girlfriends?

PS: In case you missed it yesterday, Danielle's home was in the new issue of Rue {page 69}. Her home was styled by miss Alaina, and her wardrobe was styled by me! The whole day was a blast and I am so lucky to call both of these ladies my friends.

{images 1, 2, 3, 4}

Looks for Spring

First of all, I want to say THANK YOU for all of the thoughtful and sweet comments I received yesterday for Elizabeth Schneider Style. My heart was so full and I loved seeing my silent readers come out from behind the curtain. Words can't describe the power of this wonderful support system and I feel so lucky to have you. Thank you from the bottom of my heart. 

Ok now, these looks for Spring...

    {Tibi Racer Back Camisole + Cheetah Shorts}                   {Tibi Polka Dot Blouse + Knit Shorts}

Two looks for Spring that I can't stop gushing over. Peachy hues, soft cheetah, gold accessories, navy prints, and white shorts. I love that Tibi can be feminine and edgy while maintaining attention to detail and texture. Plus, I am all about color and print and they have mastered this pretty well. 

Introducing: Elizabeth Schneider Style

Today I am extremely excited to announce a dream of mine since I was a little girl, the reason I left my day job to pursue my passion, and something very near and dear to my heart...

my very own professional site, dedicated to my very own personal styling business, designed by my very own real life friend Danielle {who is a rockstar, if you're looking for a new blog/website design - contact her now because she just released some fabulous new designs}. Elizabeth Schneider Style has information on my services, ways to contact me, and a rotating column called current favorites, full of pretty items I am lusting over. If you have any interest in zhushing your wardrobe, styling new outfits, or cleaning out your closet, please email me.

In honor of this exciting announcement, I have a fun little giveaway for my sweet, supportive, and constantly encouraging readers. Today, you have the chance to win a personal styling consultation with yours truly {and don't worry, if you don't live in Chicago, we can easily do this over the internet!}. This includes a personal style assessment and an hour long discussion to go over your style and image goals, identify gaps in your wardrobe, and establish a styling strategy for future use.

To enter: Please visit Elizabeth Schneider Style and leave a comment below! A winner will be randomly selected on Friday, January 20th.

Oh, and don't worry, Sequins & Stripes ain't goin' anywhere. xo

**This giveaway is now CLOSED.

A Snowy Weekend

Well, Chicago got quite the snow yesterday! It was absolutely beautiful and I can't wait to pull out my favorite winter weather essentials this weekend, frolic in the snow, cuddle up by a fire, and relax. I am actually headed up north for a quiet little weekend but will be back on Sunday for a full day of work on Monday {and a very exciting announcement!} I hope you enjoy a lovely little weekend wherever you are!

1  UGG Australia Shearling Gloves {I honestly don't know how I survived winter before these!}  2  Michael Kors Crystal Stud Earring {for a touch of glam}  3  Burberry Icon Check Cashmere Scarf  4  Rag and Bone Classic Duffle Coat {in the perfect shade of red}  5  Sorel Caribou Boots  6  Topshop Cable Pom Beanie

...and if you're in the Midwest, I hope you bundle up!

{images via Instagram which I upload to Twitter}

Pretty Works of Art

Completely smitten with these paintings and illustrations by the talented Caitlin McGauley. Her site is one of my favorites to browse through and if you haven't in awhile I highly suggest popping over there.

Nautical

The nautical theme always comes into play when new styles are released for Spring and the temperatures begin to warm up. Clearly, we have a ways to go until Spring weather shows its face {Chicago is said to get 6-8 inches of snow today, finally!}, but unfortunately designers don't seem to care about the weather - they are going to introduce their new styles and force you to long for warmer days to come. That being said, J.Crew flashed these new Sperry boat shoes all over their most recent catalog, Mackenzie posted this adorable top, Kate Spade just introduced these anchor studs {and a few more nautical goodies}, Stella McCartney designed a group of nautical pieces titled Deckchair Stripes, and as always, Chance seems to master this look with ease. So, allow the following images to inspire you to invest in a few nautical pieces for your wardrobe, you'll be happy that you did.

{images via 1, 2, 3, 4, 5}

It's All About the Bag

I happened upon this bag on Net-a-porter the other day and was immediately smitten. First of all, it comes in two fabulous color ways and I bet you couldn't tell that one is rubber and the other is leather {which means, quite the difference in price!}. Since I am typically drawn to peachy pinks and crispy blues, I decided that these bags can easily be surrounded with other pretty pieces...

1  Topshop Studded Slippers  2  Kate Spade 'Play Hooky' Idiom Bangle  3  Elizabeth Cole Red Sunburst Earrings  4  Ban.do Back and Forth Bobbi Pins  5  Anya Hindmarch Nevis Color Block Rubber Tote  6  Smashbox Be Legendary Lipstick  7  Vanessa Bruno Swiss Dot Silk Skirt  8  Noir Jewelry Dangling Cord CZ Earring  9  Kendra Scott Vaire Ring  10  Anya Hindmarch Nevis Color Block Leather Tote  11  Gorjana Graham Leather Studded Wrap Bracelet  12  Jimmy Choo Wallach Patent Ballet Flat

What colors are you loving this season?

The Entertaining Itch

One of my 2012 resolutions is to host a happy little soiree at my home with very clean details and colorful accents. Erika posted yesterday about a brunch she recently hosted, and it made me want to order invitations and get this party started!

1  Mason Jars {12 for $24.99}  2  Grey Paper Stripe Straws  3  Rifle Paper Co. Botanical Coasters  4  Art Effect Anchor and Stag Votive Holders  5  Jayson Home + Garden Curved Servers  6  Fishs Eddy Cake Stand  7  West Elm Organic Shaped Metallic Rimmed Dinnerware  8  Pinecone Hill Pleated Linen Placemats  9  A bountiful bouquet. Emily had a great DIY tutorial here.

I know this spread looks a little spring-ish, but I love kicking off the year with a fresh and clean palette.

Dotted

Marc Jacobs and Tim Walker in polka dot heaven.

My favorite MJ polka dots here, here, and here.

Saturation

The weather in Chicago is 54 degrees today, which makes me want to prance around the city in a vibrant shift dress and soak up the sunshine. Since this Spring time weather will most likely fade by tomorrow, I am soaking up these bright images full of jewel tones, pretty pastels, and layers of saturation. I posted about these colorful trousers the other day and would love to add a few more pieces to my bold and bright wish list. 

1  Topshop Plain Shift Dress  2  Asos Lucy Patent Ballet Flat  3  Mason by Michelle Mason Silk Maxi Skirt  4  Reiss Delores Top  5  Topshop Premium Wide Leg Trouser  6  Kain Classic Washed Silk Tank  7  Marc Jacobs Natasha Shoulder Bag 

I am seriously looking forward to saturating my wardrobe this Spring, and I think color on color is chic, sophistiacted and effortlessly styled - kind of a no brainer. 

{images via J.Crew, This Time Tomorrow, Celeb Inspire, Elle, All About the Pretty, and Pinterest}