Sponsor Welcome: A.BARCLAY Designs

I am proud to introduce our second sponsor of the day, A.BARCLAY! A shop full of luxurious scarves with an important message in the design. The perfect accessory to welcome fall!

A.BARCLAY is an evolving collection of scarves and resort wraps providing luxurious accessories to that fashion marketplace; locally made items to orphanages in Tanzania; and a greater feeling of social responsibility to all of the brand's stylish wearers. 

Pretty awesome, huh? Plus they come in a slew of fabulous colors and prints...

So head on over and check out this gorgeous site, because on top of a fabulous new sponsor, there is a message reminding us to do better for those who aren't as fortunate as we. Welcome A.BARCLAY!

Have a lovely weekend friends!

Sponsor Welcome: Rowen Footwear

Today I am thrilled to introduce you to one of S&S's newest sponsors, Rowen! A fabulous specialty footwear line that just released a pretty amazing fall line. Launched in the Spring of 2010, Rowen's vision was to provide women with beautiful, feminine shoes that were as comfortable as they are spectacular. 

I think we would all agree that these are pretty spectacular. How perfect are the cap-toe printed pumps? And don't even get me started on their flats. 

This is only a sample of the amazing styles that they have to offer. Stylish, on trend, comfortable, and sophisticated. What more could you ask for? So please stop by Rowen's site and give them a warm welcome to Sequins & Stripes! I have no doubt they will be a huge hit over here. 

Stay tuned for another amazing sponsor coming your way this afternoon! It feels like Christmas over here.

NYFW

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As I mentioned yesterday, I am flying to NYC to catch the end of NYFW next week. I will be arriving late and sadly missing majority of the shows, FNO, and the conferences but I have two full days of networking and meetings with a few of my favorite brands, finally meeting up with a few ladies I have been dying to meet, and attending an event with rewardStyle, so my four days there are jam-packed!

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I have my work cut out for me as I anxiously start to plan my outfits for the trip. I have a few nighttime events, brunch dates, showroom visits, meetings over coffee, cocktail hours, and I of course allotted some time to get lost in the city for a day. Question: how many pairs of shoes do you think is too many?

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I have already laid out a few of my favorite pieces that can hold their own in any situation. A patterned shift dress, the perfect black heel, a bag to throw over my shoulder, ballet flats, and a blazer to polish off an outfit if I feel too casual. 

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The goal is to be comfortable, effortless, put together, and to make an easy statement. An easy task, right? Right.

So, who is going? Any suggestions while I'm there?

Pressure

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Pressure. We all feel it at one point or another, most of the time it is self inflicted but sometimes outside sources test you and tell you it's time to step up your game. I've been feeling the pressure lately, but really in the best way possible. A way that has me looking at my peers as inspiration, that has me thinking outside of the box, and has me wanting to step up my game. Instead of focusing on a few of my disappointments, I am relishing in all of the little victories I have seen over the past year. Good advice from old Abe Lincoln. I am not going to lie, this summer was a bit of a distraction, and with multiple weekends away it always felt difficult to get back into a groove. Did anyone else feel this way? But I am going to say that fall is my season, and September is my month. I have a few exciting things in the works like a fun announcement in the next week, a trip to NYC {hello NYFW!}, and a week of fall trends on the blog. The perfect way to welcome my favorite time of the year.

What do you do when you are under pressure? Do you flourish or does it tend to get you down? 

In The Bedroom

Alright people, I swooped up this lovely headboard on Joss & Main yesterday and now I need your help deciding what bedding to choose. I am a big fan of Serena & Lily, not only because their designs are fabulous but they are high quality and super cozy. I have owned the Tess Duvet for quite some time but am looking to expand into some sheets and a throw, but I need your input. Remember, I now live with a boy, so we need to keep this space neutral. It is also important to understand that I live with a chocolate lab who thinks that our bed is his bed, and as much as I love white, it may not be realistic. Anywho, what would you choose? 

I am sorta leaning towards the navy combo, but feel like I may need a tiny pop of color. OR, do I keep it in the family and go with the aqua? I can't decide. Help me!

PS: I have a new Closet Confidential post up on La Dolce Vita all about the perfect fall boots! Make sure to pop over and check it out. 

A Lovely Roundup

ASOS Miss KG Snake Ballet Flats  //  Vanessa Bruno Washed Leather Jacket  //  Loren Hope Gwyneth Necklace  //  Deux Lux Empire Clutch  //  Sugar Paper Black Bow Note Set  //  Auden Amelia Earrings  //  Mango Studded Peplum Blouse  //  ASOS Round Sunglasses  //  Tim Walker PICTURES  //  Rebecca Minkoff Ostrich Embossed Swing Bag  //  Loren Hope Clara Earrings  //  Zara Studded Ankle Strap Sandal

A roundup of recent favorites, just because. 

Loren Hope Fall 2012

If you've been making your rounds around the blogosphere today, you have probably heard the news that Loren Hope just launched her Fall 2012 collection, and it is damn good. 

And by now you probably know that Loren Hope is one of my lovely sponsors that I just happen to adore oh so much. She even asked me to take part in her fall look book, along with a slew of fantastic bloggers.

So do yourself a favor and give this hard-working woman some love, clearly she deserves it!

Over the Weekend

I went to my best friend's wedding in this adorable Anthropologie dress, belted with a bow.

Spent an afternoon at the race track celebrating a couple of birthdays.

Said goodbye to my boyfriend's apartment that was well-lived in {understatement} for three years {where our relationship began!} and welcomed him into his new home :)

How was your weekend?

Camera Ready

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This weekend is packed with wedding and birthday festivities, quick outfit changes and lots of lipstick touch ups! My trusty Nikon will be hanging by my side all weekend long and I'll pretend that I look as effortlessly chic as the above.

Happy weekend!

Sequins & Stripes On Rue La La

I'm sharing some helpful wardrobe transition tips on Rue La La's blog today!

Pop over to see how you can build this adorable outfit within your own closet!

Sequins & Stripes On Shoptalk

I am guest posting on Shoptalk today sharing three fall looks to take you from day to night! 

Equipment Anita Slim Signature Blouse  //  Juliet & Company Magique Necklace  //  Stella McCartney Round Sunglasses  //  Jennifer Zeuner Cursive Love Bracelet  //  Juicy Couture Eton Plaid Pants  //  Messeca New York Jacqueline Ballet Flats  //  Rebecca Minkoff Python iPhone Case  //  Christopher Kon Lady Woven Wallet  //  See by Chloe Clic Clic Keychain  //  Loeffler Randall Rider Bag

Gorjana Graham Bracelet  //  Stella McCartney Oversized Sunglasses  //  Anya Hindmarch Floyd Key Ring Case  //  Rebecca Minkoff Mitchell Moto Jacket  //  Theory Tirrione Dress  //  Christopher Kon Jordie Tote  //  Tory Burch Foxy iPhone Case  //  Alexander Wang Fumo iPad Case  //  Alice + Olivia Dina Pumps

Tom Binns Madame Dumont Bib Necklace  //  Anya Hindmarch Metallic Hexley Clutch  //  Pour la Victoire Mai Demi Wedge  //  Alice + Olivia Amanda Peplum Dress 

Pop over to check it out!

She Believed She Could

Lots of good things happening today! Stay tuned.

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Manly Men

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There is something about manly fall style that makes me a tiny bit weak in the knees. Who doesn't love a nice gingham shirt, cashmere sweater, dark, slim denim and a tailored blazer? Add some car shoes or a pair of Jack Purcell's and I'm a happy girl. 

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As a girlfriend, I sometimes feel like it is my job to accomplish this look on my not-always-stylish man, so I tend to purchase pieces that can carry him into the cooler season year after year {note: my obsession with a fall wardrobe}. The perks of having a girlfriend!

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Here are a few of my manly wardrobe essentials for fall...

Aubin & Wills Eardson Check Cotton Shirt  //  J.Crew Cashmere V-Neck Sweater  //  Woolrich Wool Blazer  //  A.P.C. New Cure Slim Rigid Jeans  //  Oliver People Sheldrake Sunglasses  //  Uniform Wares Slim Watch  //  River Island Satchel  //  Car Shoes Leather Driving Shoes

Speaking of manly men, my boyfriend, Dave, is over at vmac + cheese today participating in Victoria's The Man Behind The Blog series. He would love it if you stopped by!

Birthday Girl

Zara Jacket, J.Crew Sparkle Bow Top, Current/Elliott Jeans, Zara Leopard Bag

Dave spoiled me last night, and a dinner date proved to be the perfect excuse for pulling out some sequin bows. I have to say I am sorta smitten with the cool days that Chicago has been having lately. I am looking forward to lots of layers in my future. 

It's My Birthday

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...because one day a year I can say that this day is all about me!

Weekend Style

Day: Dannijo Bracco Earrings  //  Illesteva Tortoise Sunglasses  //  Rebecca Taylor Printed Silk Dress  //  J.Crew Starburst Bracelet  //  J.Crew Wild Side Skinny Bracelet  //  J.Crew Gold Bangle Set  //  Madewell Heritage Leather Satchel  //  J.Crew Whipsnake iPhone Case  //  Loeffler Randall Blaise Flat Mocassin  Night: Dannijo Monaco Earrings  //  The Row Sally Striped Peplum Top  //  NARS Lipstick in Heat Wave  //  Jules Smith Skull Bracelet  //  J Brand 811 Skinny Jeans  //  Tory Burch 797 Clutch  //    Alice + Olivia Donnie Haircalf Booties

These outfits would make for one stylish weekend. Hope you're enjoying yours!

A Fall Wardrobe

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To me, fall style is defined by rich colors, soft leather, cashmere sweaters, chunky scarves, dark denim, school boy loafers, tailored jackets, riding boots, and lots of layers. I pull out my tried and true favorites that have managed to hold up over the years and invest in a few novelty pieces {like the perfect blouse}. My fall wardrobe tends to remain classic, it hasn't changed much over the years aside from a few updates of my favorites but for the most part I have made sure to curate a collection of fall staples to last me year after year. 

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I am pretty proud of my fall wardrobe, it is definitely the season that I have invested the most money in, and when you can step back and feel confident about what you're wearing - it's super easy to get dressed every single day, and that's a pretty great feeling. 

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That's the goal, right? To curate a wardrobe that we are proud of, because really, your wardrobe is an investment, and an investment that makes you feel like the best version of yourself is a good investment in my book. So think about that next time you are shopping for a last minute outfit, that you don't love, may be cheap, and will probably only be worn once. Those dollars could have easily been saved for that dreamy leather jacket you've been eyeing, or the perfect handbag. We are all guilty of it, but let's all curate a wardrobe that we love - we're getting to the age where we deserve it. Goodbye Forever 21, hello sophisticated wardrobe!

I totally digressed on this post, but when I need a pep talk - you get a pep talk. 

Invest In: A Classic Blouse

Theory Gerine Cicero Blouse  //  DVF Novalee Bow Front Blouse

A.L.C. Kyla Blouse  //  Tibi Crocheted Silk Blouse

Sandro Evidence Lace Collar Blouse  //  DVF Marissa Silk-Chiffon Blouse

One thing that I always invest in once fall rolls around is the perfect new blouse. A classic cut with feminine details that can be worn casually with jeans and riding boots or tucked into the perfect skirt with tights and heels. If I am going to spend the money on something pretty, it has to be versatile, and a blouse is one item that I can always justify in my wardrobe. So if you are debating on what to invest in for fall, I recommend a classy blouse like the ones above. Just to give you a few ideas :)

Outfit: Marine Layer

Anthropologie Sunnies, Marine Layer Striped Painter's V {c/o}, Club Monaco Skirt, Rebecca Minkoff Mini MAC Bag, Aldo Wedges

I threw on this easy outfit before dining al fresco with friends last week. Super easy pieces that when added together seem to be a good dynamic. The folks at Marine Layer sent me this stripe tee and I have to say, it is pretty much like wearing pajamas, only vintage-y and cute. Also, these Aldo wedges have been a staple all summer. I've been pairing them with LBD's, white bell bottom jeans, peasant dresses and maxi skirts - the perfect heel and super comfortable.  

Kate Spade Fall Arrivals

Gramercy Watch  //  Roped Triple Row Bracelet  //  Worth Street Croissant Coin Purse  //  Nadira Ballet Flat  //  OOH LA LA Idiom Bracelet  //  Garance Dore Georgie  //  Signed, Sealed, Delivered Cards  //  Licorice Heels  //  La Pavilion Earbuds  //  Roped Drop Earrings  //  Triple Chain Pearl Necklace  //  Corinne Heels  //  La Pavilion iPad Sleeve

I have always adored Kate Spade's fall and winter lines; I think it is because they tend to amp up their sparkle and golden details once we get closer to the holidays. Not to mention, I am obsessing over their recent polka dot parade and collab with Garance Dore. Well done, Kate Spade! I could just devour that adorable little croissant {and just about everything else}. 

Let It Be

Hi friends, happy Monday! I am back from my quick jaunt to Ontario and am settling back into reality and lots of work. Our vacation was amazing but flew by in the blink of an eye. I have to say as much as I love summer, the 60 degree nights and fresh air were good for my soul and have me dreaming of cooler days ahead. You know what else was good for my soul? Disconnecting from the world, social media, and all forms of outside communication {aside from maybe a few quick instagrams}. I was mad at myself for having anxiety about reconnecting with social media today but I am just going to savor those few days of quiet time and let it be. 

I've been chatting with a few family members, friends, and especially Dave about being better about separating myself from my cell phone, lap top, and social media. As much as I love staying on top of my work, responding to every little tweet, checking emails and staying connected with my virtual friends, I am creating a serious separation with the most important people in my life - which needs to be fixed. So starting today I am not going to feel bad for silencing my phone after 6pm, closing my lap top, and putting my feet up to enjoy some time with the ones I love. I just need to let it be. Easy? We'll see. 

How was your weekend? 

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Weekend Style

Day: Loren Hope Leslie Earrings  //  Ray-Ban Clubmaster Sunglasses  //  J.Crew Shirt in Perfect Gingham  //    Tibi Drawstring Shorts  //  Hunter Original Wellies  //  J.Crew Panama Hat  //  Marc by Marc Jacobs Class Act Small Duffle  Night: J.Crew Tortoise Barrette  //  J.Crew Silk-Cashmere Scarf  //  James Perse Knitted Sweater  //  J Brand 814 Straight Leg Jeans  //  Timex Watch  //  Soludos Pico Flat Espadrilles

Fishing would look lovely in these outfits, don't you think? Happy weekend, friends!

Happy Weekend

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The perfect photo to stroll into the weekend. I adore the skinny jean + bright heel combo, completely effortless. At the moment, I am probably wearing wellies - fishing fashion if you will.

Have a lovely weekend!

Fab Shoes for Fall

Salvatore Ferragamo Varina Classic Bow Flats  //  Carven Leather and Suede Bow Slingbacks  //  Rebecca Taylor Lola Pointy Toe Flat  //  Loeffler Randall Tamsin Snake Pumps  //  Belle by Sigerson Morrison Lamar Pull-on Booties  //  Loeffler Randall Margeaux Wedge Boots  //  L.K. Bennett Bruton Pumps

Fall shoes happen to be my favorite. Maybe it's because Chicago has a short summer season and I just can't justify spending money on pricey sandals, but show me a fabulous riding boot, classic ballet flat or timeless pumps and I can pretty much always convince myself that they are well worth the money. Here are a few of my favorites for the upcoming season that I am pretty sure would last me for many years to come. 

PS: I am thrilled to be participating in A Piece of Toast's "She Wishes She Were Wearing" series today. If you are living under a rock and haven't introduced yourself to Molly + Sally yet, please rush over there. I would by lying if I said I did not have a girl crush on these stylish sisters! 

Gone Fishin'

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Here is something you probably didn't know about me; I really like to fish. 

Since I was seven years old, my dad has taken me on a week long fishing trip with our closest family friends...which were always all boys. Over the past few years my brother has taken my place but this year we decided to make a family trip out of it, so today I am headed to Ontario, Canada to replace my ballet flats with wellies and fish for nine hours a day for the next five days. The best part about it? There is absolutely no cell phone service or internet in the tiny cabin resort where we stay. I can honestly say that this is probably the first time I will be completely disconnected from the world in a good three years, which will feel kind of weird but also amazing. 

So if you are trying to get ahold of me over the next few days, I promise to return your emails/questions/comments once I return on Monday! Until then I'll be taking in the fresh Canadian air, bundling up in my favorite fisherman's sweater for those 60 degree nights, eating fresh fish, and soaking up some time with my family. Sequins & Stripes has some fun posts coming up over the next few days, so don't worry, it will be like I never even left. :)

Currently Coveting: The Becky Jacket

Becky Jacket in Mint  //  Becky Jacket with Contrast Lapels

Becky Jacket in Graphic Print  //  Becky Jacket in Blush

Thinking about making Rebecca Minkoff's Becky Jacket mine. It would be quite perfect over a white tee and jeans, paired with leather leggings, or over a structured dress. I love how the draped front makes it a bit softer than your average blazer, a wardrobe essential in my book!

What are you coveting these days?

You Need to Know About: Hyla Dewitt

When I was a clothing and accessories buyer, I would indulge in my fair share of jewelry. To say that I was obsessed was an understatement. I loved being the first to see new designers, rummaging through stacks of bracelets, chains, gorgeous strings of beads, and dressing my hands in rings. They were my favorite booths to see {for good reason} and I would be lying if I said I didn't miss that just a little bit...

Luckily, being a blogger has its perks and sometimes people like to send me line sheets to review or designers to feature, which I am pretty picky about. However, a recent new-to-me designer is Hyla Dewitt, and I knew that I had to share the goods with you...

Her pieces had me at hello.

Because let's be serious, they are amazing...like all of these earrings are $45 - $65 {whatttt?}. 

And her choice of color combinations, beads, chain and all of these elements wrapped into one is fantastic. I could seriously see myself wearing her designs every single day, especially the earrings and one of these fabulous wrap bracelets, which are only $45 {you should see the cuffs for $70 - I die}. Clearly we need to swoop up a few of these pieces and the ladies over at Hyla Dewitt really want to make that happen...

SO, they are offering 15% to Sequins & Stripes readers until this Sunday! Just enter the code STRIPES15 at checkout! I am already eyeing a couple necklaces, a few pairs of earrings, and multiple bracelets. Time to get shopping!