Not So Mellow Yellow...

First things first, yes! These are the same jeans I wore yesterday. Lol! What can I say I love the fit.  Now that we got that out of the way let's move on to the top....

 This blouse is yet another one of my thrift store finds. I was drifting from rack to rack at the Goodwill, and I saw the bright yellow sleeve poking out from the blouse rack.  I rushed over and pulled out the blouse to reveal a gorgeous cowl neck collar.  It was ALMOST love at first sight...almost. In theory, I love the bright yellow but in reality it is not really my yellow.  It's just a tad bit too mustard-y, and in my opinion it washes my complexion out. I do better with lemon-y yellows.  So, I decided to pass and I hung the blouse back on the rack.  But, I got that feeling...you know the one where you feel like you can't live without it? You start styling it your mind... you pick out shoes, and accessories...yep, that feeling... and then SOMEONE ELSE PICKS IT UP!!! and you could just kick yourself. Well, that is precisely what happened.  Someone else picked it up... but...they put it back and that was all I needed. I rushed over, grabbed it, and threw it in the basket. At this point, I still wasn't sold but I didn't want anyone else to snag it... at least not while I was still in the store!  So, I grabbed all my goodies and went into the fitting room, and that is where the magic happened...

 I slipped this beauty on over my head and it really was love at first sight. I really loved the fit, and the shoulder action and the sleeves...I still had concerns about the color, but I figured I could fix that with the right accessories.  I happened to have a pair of jeans in the fitting room with me because my original purpose was finding a pair to cut up for a pair of cutoffs (another story for another day!).  I threw on the jeans and instantly decided that this blouse had to be mine.  The bright mustard-y yellow looked FAB.u.lous paired with denim and that was all I needed!

I picked the blouse up from the cleaners last week, and I've been looking at it every time I open the closet, but in true Eboni fashion I was waiting for an occasion to wear it.  Well, today, I just couldn't resist any longer (my overflowing laundry basket didn't help!), and I figured why not get more use out of my new favorite jeans.  I thought my trusty dusty scarf tied as a belt added a nice classic-modern touch, and paired with my navy blue vintage clutch (also thrifted), this outfit is so super ladylike and fun!

I got a few comments about my new earrings! Not that any one is counting but I've had them about a week and this their third appearance. I absolutely love them! As I mentioned before they are the "High Glam Hoop Earrings" from Forever 21.  They retail for $5.80 and you can buy them online here.

Now, I have to tell you that I was thrilled when I found these because I had just seen these gorgeous POParazzi Swarovski Crystal Bamboo Earrings.

photo borrowed from FASHION du jour

Our friend Leslie over at Fashion Du Jour received a pair from her hubby a couple weeks ago, and I've been lusting for them! You guys know how I love hoop earrings.  They retail for $120 and that is just not in my budget soooooo I was very pleased to find the Forever 21 embellished hoops, and of course they were right in my price range.  That is not to say that I wouldn't LOVE to have the real deal, too!! But I am happy for now :)

One last thing! I have meaning to say THANK YOU to Miss Catherine over at the ABC's of College! Catherine was so kind to contact me for an interview for a feature she runs on her blog called "Dress Like a Fashionista." Catherine's blog is focused primarily on advice for prospective college students, but I love that she throws in an element of fun with her fashionista feature.  Besides, we've all heard that old adage you have to Dress for Success.  Anyway, it was a great honor to be asked to participate.  It's always such a great compliment when someone admires your style.  Head on over to Catherine's blog and check out the interview when you can!

Thanks for stopping by!!

Black & Denim (You Know What That Means)

If you've been a reader of my blog for a while now, then you already know what black & denim means but for you know readers out there black and denim is my ultimate fail safe.  Black & denim is a clear indicator that I went to WAR with my closet this morning.  Black & denim is the epitome of effortless chic.  Some girls have an LBD, I have a collection of LBS's (Little.Black.Shirts.) I discovered black & denim as my go-to look when I was in college.  I attended class in the morning and in the evening , and worked during the day but I still managed to go out with my friends several times a week.  The problem was I got home later than all the other girls most of the time, so I'd have to get dressed super fast or get left behind. So, black and denim became a go-to look for me, and it is still a look that I reach for when all else fails.

The thing about black & denim that is so great is it's versatility.  For me denim usually means jeans, but it could also mean a denim skirt, or denim shorts (cut offs have been all the rage this summer!)  But even in the jeans category you have so many options -- wide-leg jeans, high-waisted jeans, skinny jeans, boyfriend jeans, embellished jeans...okay, I know you guys don't need a jeans rundown, but I'm just saying the possibilities are endless.  Add in some fabulous accessories and the outfit options are also endless.  One of my favorite looks is black & denim with red stilletos for a pop of color.  It is simple, chic, and SEXY!!!

So today's outfit is a very simple black and denim ensemble, but there are a few special details that I want to point out....

The Jeans: I am ashamed to say that these are the first pair of jeans that I've ever had tailored. I know, I know...and I call myself a fashionista.  I have just always refused to buy jeans that didn't fit perfectly through the thighs, hips, and waist as-is..  Since most jeans have a little bit of spandex in them nowadays, I've been able to get away with it.  That is until I encountered these bad boys.  I loved them... they have the most perfect flared leg, and a gorgeous wash, BUT they have ZERO span...ZERO!!! This meant that that my "normal size" fit perfectly in the waist but were way too tight in the hips and thighs.  But of course, when I tried the next size up they fit perfectly through the hips and thighs but they were doing that god awful gaping thing in back.  Now, I am one of those complicated people who likes belts for fashion, but hates them for function.  I don't like the idea of be forced to wear a belt if it doesn't go with the outfit...i.e. anytime you are wearing a longer fitted shirt.  I realize I am not the only woman out there who has this problem and there are a ton of products out there that offer temporary, adjustable, solutions to issues like this such as Adjust-a-Button, Perfect Fit Button and Invisibelt.  But, I have never really considered using any of these products either.  My mantra was if the jeans don't fit perfectly as is, they just aren't for me.  Tisk, tisk, tisk, I have probably missed out on so many great pairs of jeans! Anyway, I was reading an article on Glamour.com about denim dilemmas and as I scanned through the comments, I came across this...

"Okay.... that belt is about as invisible as those "invisible" bra straps. It looks so tacky I can't even stomach it. Just spend the extra $30 to get the waist nipped in and the length hemmed properly. Please."

Now, this is not to say that I agree with her opinion of the invisibelt.  I actually really want to get the Invisibelt! I personally think these DIY fixes are great alternative to tailoring, especially if you need the jeans NOW don't have time for a trip to the tailor. But this readers comments did make me think to myself... "Eboni, with all the money you spend on clothes, you can't spend an extra few bucks to get a pair of jeans tailored?"  And so, with that I was inspired to go ahead and buy these jeans and get the waist taken in and I have to tell you that I LOVE THESE JEANS!  It was totally worth the extra money, which actually ended up being only $13 for the waist and the hem.  A special note on the hem...these jeans have a wider hem so I was really concerned that the tailor would not duplicate exactly, but they did and it is perfect!  By the way, if you are in LA's South Bay area and you're looking for a tailor, I would totally recommend May Tailoring & Alterations in Carson.  They do a great job, they are fast, and they're prices are great.  Anyway, I am sold. I will ALWAYS tailor my jeans from now it. It really does make all the difference.

The Shirt: My shirt may seem like a plain black t-shirt, but on the contrary this shirt has tons of little design details that make it so very fabulous.  For starters, if you look closely, you will see that this little number has SHOULDER PADS!!! That's right, folks...shoulder pads.  The top was actually given to me by a friend as joke, because I always like quirky fashions.  Of course, I loved the shirt and the shoulder pads and super thin drapey tencel fabric give it a great shape and a stunning fit.  Now as if the fabulous shoulder pads weren't enough, I also love the fun floppy front pocket.  It gives the tee an extra something special!  Lastly, I love that the fabric is is so thin its almost sheer.  I wore this to work today so I just through on a black cami, but this top also looks great with just a black bra underneath for a subtle sexy vibe.  You could also play with a printed bra like leopard.  It would also look great layered over a lace or sequined cami for a little understated glam.

The Accessories: Black & denim looks are a blank canvas for loads of fun accessories (although the minimalist look is super hot, and super on trend too). Cocktail rings are all the rage these days, but I don't wear rings usually, and I've also struggled with how to balance an giant, gawdy ring with my engagement ring.  Today, I just went for it and threw on a  "cocktail ring" that I purchased from Micheal's craft store  for a halloween costume a couple years ago.  Keeping with the fake bling theme, I threw on my Forever 21 faux crystal chandelier necklace and faux crystal embellished hoop earrings.

The Purse: I picked up this Perry Ellis metallic tote at the thrift shop!  It was $6, and I love it! It is so incredibly roomy inside.  This morning I was running late, and I didn't have time for a purse swap so I threw yesterday's clutch right in as is (haven't we all done that trick before!), along with my laptop and the latest issue of Harper's Bazaar.  What's not to love about a carryall?

So you see, there is more to this seemingly simple black & denim ensemble than meets the eye at first glance!

I just had to post the next picture because it looks like I have a real black girl bootie. Trust me when I say, it is an illusion.  It's the booty I always longed for back in high school when I was told I was too skinny. Lol!  The picture above is more realistic.  There is a some slight curvature...very slight!

What's your go-to look "when all else fails?"

Do you tailor your jeans?

What do you think of the various denim dilemma options?

Thanks for stopping by!!

Go Cami Crazy!!!

I know I didn't post yesterday's Goofy Pics today. Unfortunately, yesterday's photos came out really, really dark and blurry. ugh! hate when that happens.  I was able to salvage a couple, which I'll include with today's Goofy Pics.

In the meantime, I just had to share a fabulous deal with you guys.  You know how I feel about a good bargain.  Well, I just heard that Old Navy is having a $2 Secret Cami Sale!!! .

Who's Invited: Fashionista's Everywhere (so spread the word!!)

What: The $2 Secret Cami Sale

Where: Your local Old Navy store

When: Thursday, 7/29 through Sunday, 7/31

Why: Because every Fashionista Next Door needs a drawer full of colorful camis

How: Just say the code words "Cami 4 me" at the checkout or print this coupon.

 

Stock up on these colorful layering cami's, regularly $8.50 each, for only $2 each!! (Limit 5 per customer) Get one in every color...heck! for $2 each, get two in every color!  You can never have enough cami's.  This deal is available in US store locations only so while you're running around town this weekend be sure to head on over to Old Navy and snatch up a few camis. 

Photo courtesy of M80

That's right, folks! Now is your chance to stock up on all the glorious layering camis your heart desires to take you through summer and right into fall.  Now, you don't need me to tell you the endless possibilities of a good cami.  Wear them under sheer blouses, layer them under sweaters and cardigans, throw them on with a blazer...I could go on forever! These are particularly cute because of the fabulous v-neck.  I personally love any top with a v-beck because they are very flattering for my double D bust.  I don't currently own any v-beck camis so I'll definitely be taking advantage of this great deal!!!

As if $2 cami's weren't enough, stay tuned for a fabulous giveaway coming soon!!!

Thanks for stopping by!

*Please note that The Fashionista Next Door was contacted by M80, a social media agency, on behalf of their clients regarding sharing this promotion with my readers. In connection with this great deal, they have also offered 4 gift cards for Fashionista Next Door readers, which will be used in an upcoming giveaway.  All opinions expressed herein represent my personal opinions and I have not been paid or compensated in anyway for the opinions expressed in this post.

Connect The Polka Dots

I think I might have just beat my own record for "cheap and chic" with this outfit!  Thanks to Forever 21, H&M, TJ Maxx, and my local thrift shop this outfit costs about $8 + $20 for shoes + about $19 for accessories.  LOVE IT!!! I truly believe that no matter how much money I have, I will always be a sucker for a bargain.  I just love the satisfied feeling I get when I get a good deal on something I love, i.e. this silk polka dot blouse. I love the color, I love the polka dots, I love the over sized fit, I love everything about it.  I scored this blouse at one of my fave thrift shops for $1.95 (on that note, when you thrift shop you always have to factor in cleaning cost.  I have a really good dry cleaners that charges about $3 for blouses so if you tack on that cost it is about $5).  When I bought the blouse I had this gray H&M mini in mind, which I bought just because it was $5.95 and I thought it would make a great summer basic. Hmmm, well in theory it is a great summer basic, but the material is very thin so a tunic or over sized long shirt is imperative. I thought I'd at least be able to throw it on with a blazer, but even that might be a little too much because of the fabrication.  I was thrilled when I spotted this blouse because I knew the over sized blousy fit would balance the skimpiness of the skirt just perfectly.  What do you think?

What I'm Wearing

~ Thrifted taupe polka dot blouse

~ H&M gray mini-skirt

~ Brown skinny belt

~ Steve Madden taupe patent leather pumps

~ Forever 21 necklace

~ Forever 21 embellished hoop earrings

~ H&M bangle (I know, I know)

~ Random mother of pearl beaded bracelet

(another mystery bracelet. I have no idea where it came from)

As I was editing these pictures I realized that I am really diggin' the faux peplum shape created by pairing a belted blouse with a straight skirt.  You've seen me do it here, and here with my denim shirt.  It is so flattering! I'll try not to over used the technique, but in case you haven't noticed I am a creature of habit :)

you can't really tell in any of these pictures but I actually stepped out of my comfort zone and got a bright orange color on my finger nails.  I usually stick to nudes on my hands, but It's summer and I thought I'd give color a try. I LOVE IT!!!!

 The color is Santee "neon orange."  I took this picture yesterday right after the I left the nail shop. Be honest...what do you think? I was surprised that even Mr. Fabrice liked it.

In other very exciting news, Mr. Fabrice begins taking the bar tomorrow. Ahhhhh! I am so proud of him.  He has studied his butt off for the past 4 weeks and the big day is finally here.  Come Thursday, he'll officially be able to put the bar behind him.  Notice I am speaking as if he has already passed.  That's because I have no doubt in my mind that he IS going to pass but for good measure, wish him luck!

Thanks for stopping by!!!

Neon Lights

Friday, I literally forced myself to say NO to lace, NO to denim, and NO to animal prints...at least for one day! I went in a whole different direction with this neon yellow printed dress and a bright blue blazer. The blazer was actually inspired by one of my new readers Chomy! She sent me a very sweet email last week and I quickly headed over to her blog -- The Culture Cynic and boy was I in for a treat. Chomy's style is so fun, creative, and eclectic. I just love all her gorgeous accessories and she really knows how to mix-it-up! Anyway, Chomy wears a beautiful pair of cobalt blue shorts in one of her posts and I instantly thought of my blueberry blazer...

What I Wore...

~ Blueberry blazer

~ Neon printed dress 

(purchased a random forever 21-esque store at the mall)

~ BCBGirls strappy sandals

~ LOFT handbag

~ Target plastic black bangles

~ Target gold tone hoop earings

~ Random black beaded necklace

(I have no idea where this necklace came from...LOL!)

Notice anything about these pictures? I am not wearing sunglasses. I left my security blanket at home Friday!  My photographer laughs at my dependence on the glasses, but they really do make me feel less insecure. Lol, we all have our little quirks I guess...

I want to say hello and welcome to all my new readers! I noticed a ton of comments from new people on Friday's post. I am sure that I have Budgetnista to thank for all the new visitors! I can't even tell you all how much appreciate all the love, and I hope you all will stick around for more "Goofy Pics and Fashion Ramblings," and of course, THANK YOU Budgetnista for spreading the word!

Thanks for Stopping by!!!

Fall Has Arrived...for the Fashion World That Is!

I am so not over summer yet.  Seriously, June gloom has finally lifted in LA and the weather has been great the last couple weeks, but I feel like the fashion world is shoving fall down my throat! I've received all my August mags, and they chock-full of luxurious leathers, wools, and furs, beautiful boots, and sumptuous sweaters! Still, I've been fighting the urge to get caught up in the a fall frenzy!  Well, today was the day that my will to fight fall died a quick and glorious death at the hands of Michael Kors' Fall 2010 Ready-to-Wear collection.  Oh.My.God. Please, do yourself a favor and head over to Style.com and view the entire collection.  It is wonderful!!!

In case you haven't noticed, the fashion world has 90's fever and the fall 2010 collections are full of elegant minimalism.  Kor's RTW collection embodies minimalist chic! 

I am also very excited about camel.  There is something about camel that just screams classy, don't ya think?  Kors' button front camel skirt is to die for! and we won't even talk about the coat! *LUSTING*  Three items on my must have list for fall?

1. a camel pencil skirt
2. a camel coat
3. wide leg camel trousers

Now, one trend that I am so very excited about is the maxi skirt! I absolutely love it. I am usually such a jeans girl, but I can totally envision these skirts being just as versatile as jeans. Paired with boots, blazers, cropped tops and chunky sweaters, the maxi skirt will such a fabulous and lady-like addition to my fall wardrobe.  Check out these gorgeous skirts from the Kors collection...

(click photo to enlarge)

*All photos in this post were taken from Style.com - Click Here for original source*

So, I guess it's pretty clear that I am now super excited about fall. It will technically be my first real fall since I'll be all settled in ATL by then.  Southern California doesn't really have seasons. We do get cold weather but it's not a consistently cold season.  It's more like sporadic weeks of cold weather mixed in moderate weather and cold nights.  Usually a warm sweater is all you need here even in the dead of winter.  It's rare that I actually need a heavy winter coat.  Fall/Winter fashions are sure to take on a whole new meaning for me this year and I can't wait!

Thanks for stopping by!!