The Style Ref | Calls on Life + Style + Culture

Welcome to The Style Ref

2025-05-31T21:22:00.012-04:00

What started as a personal blog for fashionable sports fans has evolved along with me into a space for all things style, culture and everyday life. I'm sharing my takes and hope you'll join me in the conversation! Don't worry, I'm still a sports fan at heart and always down for some gameday fun (and trash talk).

Be sure to subscribe to my Substack for regular updates and exclusive content delivered straight to your inbox.

Chat soon!

My Favorite Places to Shop for Sports Team Gear

2025-05-30T09:00:00.001-04:00

Ok, sports fans — it's always a good time to shop for new team gear, but it's especially fun to do heading into a new season. All the anticipation and excitement is a great excuse to treat yourself to something fresh. However, you might be wondering where to look, especially if you don't live in your sports team's hometown and you don't root for the local teams. Luckily, I've become a professional shopper when it comes to this (considering how challenging it is to track down good merch for my beloved USF, but I got my Bulls fans covered here). To get you started, here are my favorite places to shop for sports team fan gear...

Style Hack: Quick & Easy Way to Shorten a Necklace

2021-01-24T22:09:00.001-05:00

Have you ever gone to put on a necklace and it’s just too long? Problem solved! Here’s a quick and super easy way to shorten a necklace – no tools required!

Do you know any other style hacks for jewelry? Leave me a comment and let me know!

Official Review: This Amazon Find is a Smaller Version of the Popular Revlon One-Step Hair Dryer & Volumizer

2020-12-14T22:06:00.001-05:00

Aside from my love of sports and fashion, I'm pretty obsessed with my hair and always on the hunt for new and better products to make it look like I just stepped out of the salon, but for a fraction of the price. I have thick, curly, wavy hair with bangs, so you could say I literally have my hands full when it comes to styling it. I've been doing my own hair since I was eight years old, so name the tool or product — I've probably tried it and can tell you all about it.

One of the hair tools I've used and quite frankly, think is ALMOST the best thing I've ever used is the Revlon One-Step Hair Dryer & Volumizer. However, my one major complaint is the size. It's too big and takes the shape out of even the curliest, waviest hair, leaving you with straight, lifeless locks that then require you to spend even more time styling with a curling iron or wand. A smaller barrel size would solve this issue immediately, but while I wait impatiently for Revlon to make that happen, I decided to hunt for a similar product in a smaller size. Of course, I found it on Amazon!

Chignon Hair Dryer Brush

Since I know many other ladies might be in the same boat as me, I wanted to share and review this tool, so I filmed my first ever hair product review! It was a fun experience, but I'm new at this, so bear with me and feel free to skip ahead. :) I hope this helps and if you have any hair questions, feel free to leave me a comment here!

The One Gift Every Sports Fan Will Love

2020-12-02T21:32:00.017-05:00

A sports team jersey is the gift that keeps on giving year after year, season after season. No matter the occasion, it's the one thing that every sports fan will love and be excited to receive (and won't end up re-gifting). From him to her to kids, babies and pets, there's a jersey style and fit for everyone on your list. Jerseys are also wearable tributes to the sports legends we've loved and lost like the incomparable Kobe Bryant, who tragically passed away earlier this year, allowing fans to celebrate and share their legacies for years to come.

For Her: Tampa Bay Lightning Jersey • Shop More Women's Jerseys
For Him: Pittsburgh Steelers Jersey • Shop More Men's Jerseys
For Kids: Inter Miami CF Jersey • Shop More Kids Jerseys
For Baby: Boston Celtics Jersey • Shop More Baby Jerseys
For Pets: UNC Tar Heels Jersey • Shop More Pet Jerseys
For Kobe: Los Angeles Lakers Jersey • Shop More Kobe Bryant Jerseys

Before you start shopping, you might have to do a little homework to make sure you pick the right jersey:

Confirm the recipient's favorite sports team(s) (if you don't already know, avoid being obvious and either ask someone who knows the person or do a little investigating on social media).

Consider sizing and fit. Women's jerseys are tailored for the female figure, so if you're shopping for a woman, buy a women's jersey. Youth/kids jerseys are generally cheaper, but they're made for a child's proportions, so keep in mind they may not fit adults as well. If you're in doubt about sizing, just size up because you can always tuck or tie a jersey and luckily, oversized fashion is actually right on trend.

Decide on your budget and look for coupon codes or deals. Jerseys can be very expensive, especially when it comes to certain styles and players. Once you know the specifications for the jersey you're looking for, shop around to see where you can get the best deal.

Players come and go, get traded and retire, but fans are forever. If you want to go all out for your gift, get a personalized sports jersey with your recipient's name or nickname on the back. This is sure to guarantee you a lifetime invite to gameday watch parties.

Once you've done your homework and you're ready to shop, I recommend checking out these websites:

Fanatics

Lids

NFLShop

NBA Store

MLB Shop

NHL Shop

MLS Store

Poshmark (tons of vintage finds and you can often negotiate a deal with the seller!)

Amazon

I hope this helps you find the perfect jersey for every sports fan on your gift list! If you're looking for something specific, leave a comment on this post and I'll do my best to help you find it.

2020 Holiday Gift Guide for Sports Fans

2020-11-20T23:06:00.023-05:00

If you're shopping for sports fans this holiday season, search no more! I've got you covered with the most unique and fashionable gifts that are sure to leave a lasting impression on the lucky recipient. If you're looking for something in particular and need some help, feel free to reach out to me on social or e-mail me at contact@thestyleref.com. Happy Holiday Shopping!

Team Face Mask Set • Team Hoodeez • NFL Team Infinity Scarf • Custom Team Name Necklace

NFL Stadium Puzzle • Custom Starbucks Cup • NCAA Team Pride Light • NBA Yoga Mat

Crewneck Sweatshirt • Custom Jersey • MLB Keds • Stainless Steel Wine Tumbler

Team Plaid Flannel • Tommy Hilfiger Team Windbreaker • Team Knit Boots • NHL Pajama Set

Now WEAR This: My Picks from Erin Andrews' Clothing Line for Sports Fans

2020-10-07T15:51:00.017-04:00

When I first heard about WEAR by Erin Andrews, a new clothing line for sports fans designed by one of TV's most recognizable (and fashionable) sideline reporters, I was EXCITED. She understands how women want to look and feel while representing their favorite team, so I knew this business venture was going to be a home run...touchdown...slam dunk...ok, I'm done. :)

Fanatics is the best place to shop her clothing line, which comes in a variety of NFL, NCAA and NBA teams. There are lots of everyday pieces that you can wear all week long, not just on gameday. I personally love how she puts a sporty twist on timeless classics like a bomber jacket, cardigan, denim shirt and plaid button-up. While the pricing is relatively high, consider that you're paying for the elevated styling and attention to detail, so think of these as investment pieces that you can use for years to come. Plus, Fanatics frequently runs good sales, so keep a lookout and you can definitely score a deal!

Here are my picks from Erin Andrews' clothing line — my absolute favorites are the denim and plaid shirts, and the colorblock sweater, which are perfect for fall. I'll take one of each in the New York Giants, please!

San Francisco 49ers Bomber Jacket • Seattle Seahawks Cardigan

Green Bay Packers Denim Shirt • Pittsburgh Steelers Sweatshirt • Dallas Cowboys Colorblock Sweater

Kansas City Chiefs Plaid Button-Up Shirt • NFL Plaid Button-Up Shirt

New England Patriots Hoodie • Baltimore Ravens Sherpa Bomber Jacket

New Orleans Saints Varsity Zip-Up Jacket • Philadelphia Eagles Quilted Full-Zip Bomber Jacket

Tampa Bay Buccaneers Women's T-Shirt • Cincinnati Bengals Snap Cuff Long-Sleeve

Tampa Bay Buccaneers Leggings • Cincinnati Bengals Track Pants

Which items do you like most from the WEAR by Erin Andrews clothing line? Leave a comment and let me know!

*This post contains affiliate links, which means if you click them and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no cost to you. All opinions are my own. Thank you for supporting this website!

3 Ways to Wear an Infinity Scarf (Not Around Your Neck!)

2020-10-03T17:07:00.024-04:00

Scarves are the ultimate outfit accessory because they're the literal definition of fashion meets function — they look pretty AND they keep you warm. For those of us who live in warmer climates, we can get a little creative with wearing scarves instead of just around our necks. I made a video a while ago about how to turn your favorite scarf into a vest and this fall, I'm back with another one to show you a few more tips for styling your new favorite cold weather accessory. An infinity scarf, which as the name indicates, has no beginning or end. It's a continuous circle of fabric that's quite versatile and can be worn multiple ways beyond just wrapped around your neck.

Watch the quick one-minute video below for three different ways to wear an infinity scarf. Then shop my scarf picks below (NFL fans should definitely pick one up for football season!). Happy Fall!

SHOP INFINITY SCARVES

Giveaway: Minimalist Mascots for Modern Sports Fans

2020-09-12T06:51:00.019-04:00

I'm always on the lookout for cool, unique products that celebrate the love of sports. That's why I've been a longtime fan of S. Preston Art + Designs. His modern interpretation of iconic stadiums are vibrant pieces of art that smartly key in on the visual elements of these beloved structures. They're not only interesting to look at, they tell a story. Then he moved on to another beloved element in sports — mascots.

I LOVE mascots, especially my own Rocky the Bull from the University of South Florida. I know a lot of other sports fans hold their mascots close to their hearts, too; some even invite them to their weddings! So when I saw S. Preston's new mascot poster prints and mugs in the same minimalist style he's famous for, I had to share. (I've already submitted my request for a Rocky the Bull mug, so standby USF fans!)

— GIVEAWAY —

To celebrate the much-anticipated return of college football, I'm teaming up with S. Preston to give away a college mascot poster print (pending availability; otherwise, the winner can choose an NFL mascot poster print). >> Head over to my Instagram @thestyleref to enter!

I highly encourage you to explore all of S. Preston's incredible art on his website. He's always adding new things and they all make great gifts for family, friends and colleagues! Leave a comment and let me know what you think of his style.

How to Makeover Your Shoe Collection Without Buying Another Pair

2020-05-24T03:37:00.014-04:00

It's safe to say most women realize deep down inside that they have way. too. many. shoes. For me, variety is the spice of life, especially when it comes to fashion, but the truth is having so many options can create some issues. Whether you're trying to stick to a budget or simply running out of storage space, taking a close, hard look at your closet can be daunting, but also rewarding because it gives you a chance to get reacquainted with the things you love. During my time at home, I took major stock of my shoe inventory and quickly realized that in light of current events and budget considerations, I needed to focus on finding ways to maximize my wardrobe, so I could wear and enjoy more of what I already have. I'm really happy with the results and have a newfound excitement about my shoes. So put down your credit card and let's dig into your shoe situation together! Here are a few ways to make your current shoe collection feel like new again.

First, Inventory

This step is semi-painful, but very important to the process. You cannot wear what you have unless you know what you have. As you do this, keep in mind:

Do whatever you need to do to really take a good look at all your shoes, then toss the ones that are worn or no longer fit your style.
Eliminate duplicates (shoes that are really similar) and prioritize pairs you wear more often as opposed to those you rarely wear. I vote to keep special occasion shoes as long as they're comfortable because it's better to have a pair on hand that are already broken in.
Zero in on the shoes that have literally caused you pain — this is the time to be cutthroat. If you avoid wearing a particular pair due to how uncomfortable they are, take a deep breath and throw them out. If they're just a little tight and you think they're worth salvaging, try stretching them out. I recently tested Formé Shoe Shapers on a pair of pointed toe heels that were too tight in the front and they worked like magic. They now feel a half-size bigger and I can wear them without getting piercing pain in my toes.

Formé Shoe Shapers

Organize

Once you've finished taking inventory of your shoes, it's time for the fun part! Sorting by style and occasion will help you find what you need when you're putting together outfits. I group my shoes this way:

flats
heels and professional/work-appropriate shoes
sandals and "house shoes" (the pairs you throw on to get the mail, do a quick errand, etc.)
sneakers and tennis shoes
special occasion
boots and cold weather shoes

Once you sort your shoes into groups, identify the space(s) around your house where you can store them. My main closet is certainly not big enough to hold all my shoes and clothes, so I have shoes in different areas of my apartment, including in my closet, under the bed, inside a storage bench at the foot of my bed and in over-the-door organizers. Pro tip: the doors around your house offer well-hidden, often under-utilized storage space. Over-the-door organizers are great for all kinds of things, including shoes! For example, put just one over your closet door and you now have space to store 20+ pairs of shoes! Here are a few different types of organizers I use for my shoes.


Over The Door Hanging Shoe Organizer	Shoe Tower Rack


Shoe Organizer Bags (which I then put inside my storage bench)	Under The Bed Shoe Organizer

Accessorize

You may not realize it yet, but some of the shoes in your closet can be transformed into a totally new style in seconds using a cool product called Straplets. This ingenious invention quickly and easily changes the look of your shoe and solves the problem of annoying shoe slips. Straplets come in four styles and I'm obsessed with how effortless they are. They also expand the number of ways you can wear your favorite shoes — using Straplets, you can style one pair of heels in four other different ways for a total of five unique looks! That's a lot of fashion bang for your buck. Check out how easy these are to use in this quick video and then shop Straplets here.

I hope these tips help you makeover your shoe collection, so you can more fully appreciate the beauty and potential of what you already have in your closet. Let me know how it goes! :)

7 Gratifying Things to Do at Home That Don't Cost a Dime

2020-05-19T05:20:00.001-04:00

It's understandable why some people are going stir crazy at home, but in my case, I finally have time and energy to do all the things I put off in the past as a result of not being home enough. During quarantine, it's easy to get sucked into unfulfilling distractions like scrolling through social media, making TikToks and splurging on cute lounge wear. However, this time should be about finding joy and gratitude in simple things because that's precisely what we're all missing in our lives right now — we can't plan or celebrate or enjoy life exactly the way we used to, but the good news is we will again soon and we'll appreciate it that much more. In the meantime, I think we should make the most of our time at home and focus on achieving little wins for ourselves. Here are a few ideas for things to do at home that are not only free, but will make you feel pretty good, too.

1. Reorganize
This is an ongoing project for me because I feel like organizing is truly never done. However, I finally dove in to some areas of my place that needed a refresh like my closet and bathroom cabinets. In the hustle of normal life and daily routines, stuff accumulates and gets stored in nonsensical, unattractive ways. Quarantine is a great time to literally dig into the problem areas of your home and make some order out of the messes you've gradually created. You don't need to invest in fancy organizing systems or color-coded bins either; get creative and re-purpose things you already have around the house like Amazon boxes and empty (clean) food containers.

2. Try a Little DIY
I'm sure you have some DIYs or crafty projects lying around the house that you've been meaning to try, but there was always some new Netflix show to binge first. I, for one, have been making jewelry (one of my favorite hobbies/pastimes!) and next up, plan to do a paint-by-number canvas my mom gave me several Christmases ago (sorry, Mom!). Even if you're not into crafting, you can try a simple yet super satisfying DIY like this one from my friend Stephanie Pernas and update an old t-shirt or sweatshirt with a quick snip!

3. Listen to a Podcast
Podcasts are basically the modern, on-demand version of talk radio and with a huge podcast universe to explore, it's the perfect time to tune in. Do a quick podcast search based on your interests and then listen for free whenever you want. A couple of my favorites are Suze Orman's Women and Money podcast and Second Life.

4. Brush Up on Your Skills
It's hard to imagine that people learned how to do hair and makeup before YouTube, so we're #blessed to live in a time when all this expertise is literally just a click away. One of my favorite quarantine activities is watching hair and makeup tutorials because this is a great opportunity to observe the pros and brush up on my skills. If you want to learn how to correctly apply bronzer or do a fishtail braid, seize the moment and prepare to be your best, beautiful self when we all emerge from quarantine.

5. Make a Vision Board
This is something I've had on my to-do list for a while and now I finally have the time and motivation to do it. I love the intention and purpose behind a vision board — organizing your goals and dreams in a way that helps you visualize them happening in your life. Planning a vision board and sitting down to put it together forces you to take stock of your life and what's important to you, which is part of the effect this quarantine experience is having on all of us. Here's a quick vision board tutorial to get you started. You can cut pictures and words out of magazines or print stuff off the internet, whatever works for you. Just make sure your vision board reflects the things you love and want for your life. Then make sure to display it somewhere that you can look at it every day.

6. Start a Gratitude Journal
This one is pretty straightforward and extremely effective. If you do nothing else on this list, do this one thing — each day, write down (or at least think about) a few things you're grateful for. It doesn't matter if it's a small thing like what you had for breakfast or a big thing like your health, job, family, etc. The point is to take a moment to appreciate what you have and how it makes you feel. This is a long-term practice you can start now that will have an increasingly positive effect on your mood and outlook over time.

7. Look at Photo Albums
Remember those?! Chances are you have some (and so do your parents), so take a stroll down memory lane and flip through old photos that remind you of happier, carefree times. You might even find a few gems you want to frame or share in your next Zoom happy hour.

How are you spending time at home and what are some of the things you've enjoyed doing most? Stay safe!

Love Fashion + Sports? These are the Instagram Accounts You Need to Be Following

2019-10-16T09:00:00.003-04:00

Instagram is a great tool for connecting with people who inspire you and have similar interests. After blogging for years about fashion and sports, I've become part of an online community that shares my passions. I like to think we're all doing our part to eliminate the stereotype that women don't like or care about sports, especially if they like fashion and "girly" things! That cannot be further from the truth, so I love seeing and supporting other women who can talk intelligently and passionately about sports while rocking an amazing outfit at the same time.

If you love fashion and sports, and are searching for like-minded ladies to connect with online, these are the Instagram accounts you need to be following!

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A post shared by Fangirl Sports Network (@fangirlsportsnetwork) on Sep 27, 2019 at 3:54pm PDT

@fangirlsportsnetwork

This account speaks to me in every way. The bio defines a "fangirl" as "a woman who knows all of Tom Brady's stats, but isn't afraid to embrace her inner Gisele." YAS. There are other accounts linked to the Fangirl Sports Network that post content specific to different NFL teams, which are all part of #FangirlNation.

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A post shared by Tracy Sandler (@tracysandler) on Oct 3, 2019 at 5:49pm PDT

@tracysandler

She's the founder and CEO of Fangirl Sports Network, so following her is a no-brainer.

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A post shared by Megan Reyes (@megreyes_) on Sep 22, 2019 at 4:35pm PDT

@megreyes_

Megan Reyes is a diehard New Orleans Saints fan, but even if you root for a different NFL team, she has amazing style and an undeniable passion for sports.

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A post shared by Brittany Bertuzzi (@sidelinesocialite) on Sep 3, 2019 at 3:12pm PDT

@sidelinesocialite
Brittany Bertuzzi is a mom and sports fan from Houston, Texas and her account is a fun mix of family, fashion and sports.

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A post shared by Kirsten (@sharpdressedfan) on Dec 11, 2017 at 2:11pm PST

@sharpdressedfan
Kirsten is a devoted New York Mets fan with amazing style and a serious talent for putting together team-inspired outfits.

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A post shared by D A N I (@thesportsbrat) on May 19, 2019 at 7:22am PDT

@thesportsbrat
Sports fans will travel and Dani is everywhere you want to be! She takes her followers along for the ride from the tailgate to game time and everything in between.

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A post shared by Football Stylist (@footballstylist) on Oct 8, 2019 at 9:56am PDT

@footballstylist
This account will get you ready to up your fashion game.

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A post shared by The Relish (@therelishsports) on Apr 18, 2019 at 11:30am PDT

@therelishsports
Serving ALL the memes for female sports fans.

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A post shared by Heather Zeller (@aglamslam) on Aug 10, 2018 at 5:15pm PDT

@aglamslam
This is the first fashion and sports blog I found online and I remember how great it felt to discover someone else who was interested in the same things as me. Heather always has the scoop on what's new and next in fashion for sports fans.

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A post shared by Kathy Dorf (@thestyleref) on Sep 2, 2017 at 9:42am PDT

@thestyleref
Ok, shameless plug for me! ;) If you're a USF Bulls or New York Giants fan, let's be IG friends.

Let me know what other Instagram accounts you follow for your regular dose of fashion and sports!

Giveaway: Snuggle Up in Hoodeez this Football Season

2019-09-25T09:00:00.000-04:00

One of my favorite things to do during the fall and winter involves my couch, football and some extra layers to keep me warm. Over the years, I've collected quite a few options for snuggling up on the couch during football season — throw blankets, oversized sweatshirts, cozy cardigans, even a team snuggie! However, nothing compares to my recent find — Hoodeez — which basically takes the concept of a hoodie to a whole new (snuggly) level.

This reversible hoodie gives you two looks in one for a Sunday Funday spent watching football at home, plus all-over super soft material on one side and a smooth, cooler material on the other. You'll want to lounge in this all day and night (and maybe sleep in it, which is totally cool, no judgment).

As soon as I put on my Hoodeez, I knew this was something other football fans needed in their lives — so I teamed up with FOCO for a giveaway! Enter now for a chance to win one Hoodeez in your favorite NFL team (pending availability). The giveaway is happening over on my Instagram, so you must have an Instagram account to enter. Good luck!

Click here to enter on Instagram!
Giveaway ends on Friday, Sept. 27, 2019

USF Fans: A Definitive List of Where to Buy Bulls Team Gear

2019-09-18T09:00:00.009-04:00

Every sports fan can relate to the emotional roller coaster that comes with team loyalty. Sometimes you're up, sometimes you're down, sometimes you just need something to feel good about again. In my case, a little retail therapy goes a long way! As a South Florida Bulls fan and alumna, I have a considerable amount of experience dealing with disappointment and treating myself to new gear seems to soothe the sting a bit. It's like that saying...if you can't beat 'em, out dress 'em.

This post is for my fellow USF fans, who might be needing a pick-me-up. When you don't root for one of the large or winningest football schools, it can be challenging to find team gear, so I put together a definitive list of where to buy USF Bulls merchandise right now. To all my fellow Bulls, I hope this helps bring a little joy into your lives, so that despite what happens on the field, we still look like winners.

GO Bulls! \m/

Official Review: NY&C Closet

2019-09-11T09:00:00.000-04:00

I'm already a big fan of renting clothes and accessories. Just read my review of Rent the Runway's Unlimited Membership and you'll see why I think renting is the future of fashion. In short, it offers limitless options, freedom to try new trends and frees up precious closet space. I love fashion and wearing new clothes, but I simply have zero desire to own things anymore, primarily because I'm running out of space! As renting has become more popular, many fashion brands have launched rental programs and we fashionistas are the real winners.

I've been a longtime shopper at New York & Company — I remember walking around the store when I was a kid, admiring all the chic suits and sophisticated outfits and thinking, that's how I'll dress someday when I'm a successful boss lady. Years later, I worked there part-time (and the discount was great!). For those reasons, a large portion of my current work wardrobe came from New York & Company and it's one of my first stops when I need to buy new work clothes. I always recommend it to friends and colleagues in search of work wear, too. As a loyal customer for all these years, I was really excited to try their new rental subscription, NY&C Closet. Since all of these programs are a little different, I thought I'd share my thoughts about this one in case you're interested in trying NY&C Closet for yourself.

You should consider NY&C Closet if...

You need professional clothes to wear to work and/or want to expand your work wardrobe. This is New York & Company's strong suit (no pun intended!). While they do have a lot of casual styles, they really excel at offering women trendy, sophisticated options for the office.

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A post shared by My Work Style (@myworkstyle) on Sep 5, 2019 at 4:53pm PDT

Cost

When it comes to the price, this rental program is relatively affordable compared to others on the market. With NY&C Closet, you get three garments out at a time for $49.99/month + tax. My total monthly charge came to $53.20. This includes dry cleaning of all items and free shipping both ways via USPS. You can also cancel anytime. In comparison, Rent the Runway's Unlimited membership costs 159.99/month + tax. While that's a difference of more than $100, keep in mind that you get access to luxury fashion brands and a variety of items from ballgowns to baubles.

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A post shared by My Work Style (@myworkstyle) on Aug 22, 2019 at 4:02pm PDT

Process

Here's how it works: you're encouraged to keep 20+ items favorited "on the rack" in your virtual closet. From there, you can "prioritize" items you want to receive first, but you cannot choose the items you'll receive in each shipment. They will send you three from your selections on the rack, taking into account any styles you've prioritized, but you could receive any of the items you've favorited. That's a key difference compared to Rent the Runway, which allows you to select the exact items in each shipment. It's also kind of fun because each NY&C Closet box is a surprise — you're not sure what you're going to get, but you know it'll be something you like! You can also put items in the "on hold" section that you'd like to save for an occasion or season, but don't want right now. When the time is right, you can move it to your on the rack section.

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A post shared by My Work Style (@myworkstyle) on Aug 13, 2019 at 4:16pm PDT

Shipping

I was a little concerned about the shipping speed of NY&C Closet since they use USPS (as opposed to UPS or FedEx). However, I found their process to be surprisingly efficient. It's important to note that when you're ready to return, you must send all three items back together. Unlike Rent the Runway, you cannot keep some items and return others to free up spots. I received my first box on Thursday, August 8 and I sent everything back in the postage-paid mail bag one week later on Thursday, August 15. As soon as I dropped it in the mail, I went to the NY&C Closet website, logged into my account and clicked on the At-Home section. There you can notify them that you're in the process of returning your items. This triggers a notification to the service to begin prepping my next order, so that once they receive my returned items, they can immediately send the next shipment. I received an e-mail that my next box shipped on Monday, August 19 and I received it on Wednesday, August 21. All in, it only took four business days between dropping off my returned items and getting my new ones. The Return notification step cuts down on the turnaround time between boxes, so you get your next shipment fairly quickly. You just need to put some time aside to keep your virtual closet populated with at least 20 items you want to wear now to avoid any delays.

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A post shared by My Work Style (@myworkstyle) on Aug 27, 2019 at 5:21pm PDT

Value

I think the variety and price of this rental program make it a smart choice for those looking to try renting without making a big investment. Plus, it gives you the opportunity to try different styles without commitment, but if you like something, you can buy it at a reduced price. NY&C Closet has many of the same items you can buy on New York & Company's regular website, so you get access to all the same fashion without having to wait for a sale or invest in items you might not use often.

Here's a video diary I started when I first signed up with more of my thoughts about NY&C Closet!

If you're thinking about trying NY&C Closet, you can save $10 off your first month with my link: try.nyandcompanycloset.com/Katherine341.

Would you be interested in trying NY&C Closet or are you using it already? Let me know what you think!

How to Rep USF on Casual Friday

2019-08-28T09:00:00.000-04:00

***This one is for my USF fans, but the tips can be applied to any sports team, so just substitute yours and work it...at work!***

If you’re fortunate enough to have Casual Friday where you work, you know it’s the one day each week where you can wear jeans and (kind of) express your personal style. For part of the year, I think it should also be a designated day for football fans to rep their favorite teams since everyone is hyped for the weekend’s games and the sweet sounds of trash talk are in the air. It just makes Fridays more fun and don’t we all need more of that at work?

So I propose that starting in 2019, we dub Casual Fridays as USF Fan Fridays. We need this day to come together every week from across the miles, put on our green and gold, and educate our coworkers about who we are because like we always say, this season…is our season. However, navigating office dress codes can be tricky, so here are a few tips to help you get ready to rep USF on Casual Friday.

Play Up Green and Gold

I may be biased, but our team colors are BEAUTIFUL and look good on everyone – yes, everyone. First, go into your closet and pull out all the green and gold/yellow you already own. Wear them together or separately and voila, you’re done! This color combination screams USF and that’s exactly what you want.

Top | Hoop Earrings

Polo Shirt

Keep It Subtle…

If your office dress code allows logos, by all means show ours off! It’s iconic and the easiest way to show your team pride. There’s no need to plaster yourself in USF logos, though (especially that Merrill Lynch lookalike disaster) – remember to keep it subtle and tasteful. A little logo goes a long way.

Button-Down Shirt

3/4 Sleeve Top

And Keep It Simple

I’m not saying you need to wear green and gold from head to toe or put on your gameday outfit early. Adding just one element to your Casual Friday look is enough to put your team spirit on display.

Socks

Cardigan

Add Some Bling

Ladies, this is my favorite way to infuse some USF fandom into a Casual Friday outfit. It doesn’t require much effort and adds some fun and unexpected flair to whatever you’re wearing.

Bracelet Set

Earrings

Finish It Off with the Perfect Accessory

Of course, no USF Fan Friday outfit is complete without Horns Up! \m/ I recommend throwing yours up when your coworkers (inevitably) compliment your impeccable style.

The perfect opportunity to rep USF on Casual Friday is coming up this Friday, August 30 in USF’s home opener vs. Wisconsin. It also happens to be College Colors Day, the official day to sport new gear to celebrate the kickoff of college football, so everyone has a reason to rep their team! The question now is, what are you going to wear?!

Giveaway: Serious Scarf Envy

2019-08-20T22:30:00.000-04:00

We're just days away from the kickoff of college football season — the most wonderful time of the year — and it has me feeling extra festive. It marks the beginning of the glorious transition from summer to fall, which brings cooler weather and cozy sweaters, plus pumpkin spice and everything nice. It also brings scarves back to the front of your closet, which are, in my opinion, sadly underrated and deserve their time to shine!

A well-tied scarf can make an ordinary outfit look chic and keep you warm in the fall evenings when the temperature goes down. That's why it's a perfectly effortless way to add some functional style to your gameday look. If you thought there were only one or two ways to tie your scarf, do I have a book for you! It's called 25 Ways to Style Your Scarf and I found it in the dollar spot section at Target. The variety of styles blew my mind not to mention the illustrations are gorgeous. It made me look at scarves in a whole new way and I've had fun experimenting with all the different ways to wear them.

All this inspired me to spread the scarf love just in time for fall and college football! I'm giving away this lightweight scarf in the team colors of your choice, plus a copy of the book, so you can give everyone at the tailgate serious scarf envy all season long. :) The giveaway is happening over on my Instagram, so you must have an Instagram account to enter. Good luck!

Click here to enter on Instagram!

Giveaway ends Friday, August 23, 2019.

My #1 Tip for a Stress-Free Weekday Morning

2019-08-14T09:00:00.000-04:00

Weekday mornings can be unpredictable, so having an efficient routine can help avoid unnecessary stress and afford you a few more precious minutes of beauty sleep. Over the years, I've found that one thing can make or break my morning — my outfit. We've all been there, standing in our closet staring hopelessly into an abyss of clothes with literally nothing to wear! What about this? No, I wore that two days ago. What about that? Ugh, it doesn't fit! What about those? They don't match this shirt. Omg, I'm late! Before you know it, you've put on whatever looks reasonably acceptable and dashed out the door because you're late for work and oh, by the way, you actually hate what you're wearing and just remembered you have that important meeting today. Sound familiar? It's happened to the best of us!

I learned a long time ago that this is the worst way to start off your workday. The stress, the rush and the sting of a bad outfit linger for hours because you have to live with the results of your bad decisions all day. Trust me, I've been there, worn that. So I decided long ago that I wasn't going to let poor planning get the best of me.

My #1 tip for a stress-free weekday morning is to plan your outfit the night before! This also includes having a back-up option in mind in case plan A doesn't work out. Just taking 10 minutes the night before to set out what you're going to wear will make getting ready in the morning a lot more pleasant and kick up your confidence to take on the rest of your day. If you're an overachiever, you can even plan out your outfits for the entire work week, but personally, I like to take it one day at a time in case something comes up, the weather changes or some #outfitinspo strikes me.

In order to establish this new weeknight ritual and stick with it, I recommend designating a special space for it, whether it's a new hook in your closet or a clothing rack in your bedroom. It will keep your clothes separate from the rest and serve as a visible reminder to pick your next outfit!

Here are some options to help you create your outfit planning space that range from budget-friendly to Pinterest-worthy.

Do you plan your workday outfit the night before? If not, are you going to start doing it?

Giveaway: Back to College Football with FOCO

2019-08-07T09:00:00.000-04:00

Can you feel it?! College football is almost here! I'm so excited for the beautiful sights, sounds and flavors of football season to return and it all has me in the mood for a giveaway!

For me, one of the best things about college football is repping my team and doing it in style. It's why I started my blog in the first place. Whether you're spending gameday at the tailgate, in the stadium, at the sports bar or even at home having your own watch party, remember to dress for success. I believe wearing a great gameday outfit makes you feel confident and puts good vibes out into the universe that will help your team win...at the very least, if you lose, you'll still feel awesome about what you're wearing. :) Trust me — as a USF fan, I have plenty of experience with that!

FOCO is one of my new favorite websites to shop for fan gear, so I've partnered with them on a fun giveaway to kick off college football season. This men's floral button up shirt and women's tie-breaker tank are available in lots of different college teams, so be sure to check out FOCO's website to find yours!

We're going to help a couple of USF fans get back to college football in style! We're talking serious #USFcouplegoals. Enter below for a chance to win both of these styles just in time for USF's home opener. The winner will be announced Monday, August 12, 2019.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

If you're having trouble seeing the giveaway form, click here.

Who are you rooting for this college football season? Let me know in the comments!

Official Review: Rent the Runway Unlimited Membership

2019-07-24T09:00:00.000-04:00

The idea of renting clothes that other people have worn used to be a little unsettling, but after years of repeating the same cycle of shopping and acquiring and storing only to occasionally wear something, it started to make a whole lot of sense. So in January 2018, I took the plunge and signed up for Rent the Runway's Unlimited Membership. Since then, the company has become a full-fledged fashion force and it's single-handedly changing the way women get dressed. Through my membership, I have limitless wardrobe options and access to brands I cannot afford, but can definitely rock. Rent the Runway has given me the freedom to try new trends and the flexibility to dress for success, no matter the event or occasion.

If you're thinking about signing up for a Rent the Runway membership, here are a few things to consider based on my experience:

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Rent vs. Buy

My closet is bursting at the seams. In fact, I've seriously considered moving just so to get a bigger closet! This is due to 1) my tendency to accumulate coupled with 2) my aversion to purging. If your size doesn't change significantly and your taste is pretty established, it's hard to let go of things that still look good, are useful and you'll definitely need if you get invited to a 90s-themed party one day! ;) I love fashion and trying new trends, but I don't have room to expand my wardrobe, so Rent the Runway's Unlimited Membership gave me the freedom to enjoy fashion without the burden of storing it. I compare it to the olden days of downloading music; fast forward to today and I have an Amazon Music subscription that allows me to stream whatever I want without the hassle of mp3 files and storage capacity. Rent the Runway is like a streaming service for clothes and accessories, no storage (or annoying dial-up internet) required!

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Cost

I admit that membership isn't cheap. However, there are options to fit various budgets and if you run the numbers, you probably spend about the same or more on clothing, accessories, etc. each month. If having a flexible, ever-expanding wardrobe is important to you, find ways to cut expenses in other areas of your life, so you can afford the membership. Plus, there's no long-term commitment and you can cancel anytime, so if things get tight, you can skip a few months and restart your membership when you're ready.

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Convenience

If you have easy access to a UPS dropoff, it's incredibly easy to return items. I have a UPS dropoff right inside my office building, so this part of the process is a breeze — I just take the mailing bag into work and take a walk to the box sometime during the day. If you don't have a UPS dropbox nearby, the membership may not be as convenient for you, so make sure you figure this out before signing up.

My Rent the Runway Unlimited Membership is about more than clothes, it's fun and brings joy into my everyday life. When you look good, you feel good and enjoying what you wear gives you added confidence to take on whatever comes your way.

Do you have a Rent the Runway membership or are you thinking of signing up for one? Leave me a comment and let me know!

Trend Timeout: Snap Pants, Dressed Up & Dressed Down

2019-07-17T09:00:00.000-04:00

The last time snap pants were in style, I was in high school and admittedly, was definitely not athletic enough to pull them off. They're sporty and sleek, but also incredibly classic, so it's not surprising to see them back in action and making a renewed fashion statement. While I've certainly seen snap pants dressed down, they take on new life when you dress them up and surprisingly, can look incredibly chic. Now that they're back on the fashion scene, I got inspired to put my own spin on them, both dressed up and dressed down.

When I started shopping online, it quickly became apparent that Adidas is the OG of snap pants, but I didn't want to spend a lot to try this trend, so naturally, I went to Shein.com! 😉 This is one of my favorite places to shop when I want to experiment with super trendy items without breaking the bank. I'm happy to report that Shein has a respectable selection of snap pants, so I bought two pairs in black and green (the green are currently unavailable 😞, but they might come back in stock).

I decided to use the green snap pants to put together these two outfits because I love the pop of color and I wanted my dressed down look to channel USF colors (green and gold). However, now that I've styled the green, I know the black would be equally versatile and stylish, too. I'm really pleased with how both outfits turned out! Check out the results below.

DRESSED UP

Shop My Look:

DRESSED DOWN

Shop My Look:

T-Shirt | Snap pants | Adidas sneakers | Hoop earrings | Initial necklace

Which look is your favorite and how would you wear snap pants, dressed up or dressed down? Leave me a comment below!

Sports Team T-Shirt DIY

2019-07-10T09:00:00.000-04:00

When I was growing up, I loved to bedazzle my clothes. Ask anyone who knew me between the ages of 13 and 22, and they'll tell you I had an unhealthy obsession with rhinestones. I once bedazzled my high school t-shirts because they were just so plain and unexciting. A little glue and some rhinestones did the trick! ;) Years later, I still have those trusty supplies in my craft storage just in case.

Needless to say, I've always been fascinated with taking clothes and putting your own creative spin on them. Recently, I got lost in a rabbit hole of t-shirt upcycle DIYs on YouTube. It's amazing what a basic, baggy t-shirt can become with a few strategic cuts. I got inspired to try it myself with a couple of t-shirts I picked up from South Florida Strong, a new USF clothing company powered by USF alumni (Go Bulls!) that I stumbled across recently online. While the shirts are soft and great quality, they have a pretty straight fit since they're unisex style, so I thought they could benefit from a little creative cutting.

BEFORE

Using the South Florida Strong shirt and the Bull Strong shirt, I put my YouTube inspiration and a pair of scissors to work! I think they both turned out pretty well, but my favorite is the Bull Strong/black t-shirt. If you try your own DIY, my biggest piece of advice is to use new or very sharp scissors because that makes all the difference in how well the finished product turns out!

AFTER

Check out both of my t-shirt DIYs in the video above and let me know which one is your favorite!

VIDEO: What's in My Work Purse

2019-07-02T23:33:00.000-04:00

I'll be the first to admit I've been guilty of putting way too much in my work purse for far too long. I think it's ingrained in us from childhood to literally carry the world on our shoulders — in our backpacks, that is. I remember many of my backpacks growing up being unnecessarily heavy (because of all those relics called textbooks!) and my mom gasping at the weight when she tried to move it. I guess it's a natural transition into adulthood to find yourself hauling around a more stylish and sophisticated version of your grade school carryall, but still stop to wonder, what do I even have in there?

Earlier this year, I decided I was done with my heavy work purse and I vowed to downsize once and for all. I started using a medium-sized bag (as opposed to a large, roomy tote) to limit the amount of stuff I could fit inside. Then, I took a serious inventory of what I really need on a day-to-day basis and eliminated a lot of things that may be nice to have, but don't really get much use during the week when I'm mainly in my car, at home or in the office. This process really opened my eyes to how I could make more efficient use of purse space and believe me, I now feel much lighter!

I thought this exercise might be helpful to other boss ladies out there suffering from heavy purse syndrome, so I put together a video to walk through what's in my work purse, along with some quick tips!

So now, I've got to ask, what's in your work purse? ;)

My Favorite Places to Shop for Work Clothing

2019-06-26T09:00:00.000-04:00

One of the most common frustrations I hear from other working women is that they don't know where to shop for work clothing. When I tell them about some of my favorite stores, I get a lot of mixed reactions, including surprise, delight and disbelief. The majority of my work wardrobe comes from budget brands and with the exception of my winter coats, I don't own a single item that costs more than $80 (including shoes). I believe that good taste is all it takes to put together a great outfit. It doesn't need to be expensive or designer because labels don't have style, YOU DO.

I thought it might be helpful to provide a list of my favorite places to shop for work clothing and the reasons why. I'll add to the list as I find more, but this is a solid roundup of my usual go-to stores.

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Rent the Runway

I've been a Rent the Runway Unlimited Member for more than a year now and it's forever changed the way I view and shop for clothes and accessories. We've all been conditioned to buy things, so we can own and collect them and nobody else can have them until we're ready to give or throw them away. The idea of renting used to feel a little like cheating and there was this strange stigma attached to wearing something you couldn't afford as if you were somehow pretending and trying to fool the rest of the world into thinking you could. Rent the Runway has single-handedly taken that ill-conceived notion and transformed how women look at their closets and in turn, their own sense of style. Through my membership, I have access to high-end brands I could never dream of owning at this point in my life and I can experiment with different styles without fear of commitment or bankruptcy. It's a dream come true for professional women who simply want to refresh their work wardrobes or need an outfit for a special occasion, presentation or event. If you're interested in trying a Rent the Runway membership for yourself, you can use my referral link to get a special trial deal!

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JCPenney

I have a confession, but if you follow my @myworkstyle IG account, you already know I'm OBSESSED with JCPenney. There, I said it and I'm proud of shopping there because I. Find. So. Many. Great. Deals. My mom shopped at JCPenney when she was my age and she took me there throughout my childhood to buy clothes. Maybe it's that sense of nostalgia that brought me back as a young professional, but like an old, reliable friend with a great sense of style, JCPenney has never let me down when it comes to high-quality, affordable work clothes. I bought my first real suits at JCPenney and so many other pieces that have formed the foundation of my work wardrobe. Their Worthington brand dominates my closet from pants to blouses to jackets. For women in any stage of their career, whatever your work wear needs are, I highly recommend taking a trip to your local JCPenney to see what you've been missing. And don't forget your coupons (check their website)!

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Walmart

I remember a time not too long ago when I would never have thought to shop for clothing and accessories at Walmart, but now, it's almost impossible for me to enter a Walmart and NOT check out the racks. Scroll through your Instagram feed and it's clear from some of the outfits your favorite influencers are wearing that Walmart has definitely stepped up their style game. Their jewelry section is rich with affordable, high-quality basics as well as trendier pieces. I usually leave with no less than two items, so wallet beware. Walmart's new Time and Tru line has officially taken their women's fashion to the next level with a range of clothing, shoes and accessories that are stylish and accessible. Gone are the days when Walmart seemed stuck in another fashion decade — they have officially arrived and I'm here for it.

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Target

Target is where I go to find the basics like cardigans and tees. I've been really impressed with everything I've purchased from their A New Day collection. I also love their partnership with Who What Wear, which makes Target the place to go if you're looking for statement work wear at budget-friendly prices.

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New York & Company

My earliest memories of shopping for work clothes are from New York & Company (back when it was called Lerner New York — who else remembers that?!). I used to walk around the store picturing myself wearing all the sophisticated outfits and power suits when I was a boss lady someday. In the years since, I keep coming back to New York & Company (I even worked there for a short time!) because this brand understands what women need to dress their best in the workplace — a wide range of sizes, pants that come in short, average and tall lengths, and a variety of colors to suit all tastes, not to mention amazing coupons! Trust me, there's always a deal or sale happening at New York & Company.

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Amazon

Amazon is a relatively new player to the fashion game, but it's coming in hot and based on analysis of my own shopping habits, I predict it's going to change everything. Up until now, I've only bought basics like bodysuits and shoes on Amazon, but with their emphasis on making the process of buying, trying and returning clothes and accessories even easier with Prime Wardrobe, Echo Look, etc., I find myself drawn to Amazon more when shopping for clothes. Fueling this new interest is the fact that a lot of my favorite fashion influencers share so many amazing, budget-friendly finds that are just too tempting NOT to buy (I see you, @shopdandy).

Do you shop for work wear at any of these places? I would love to hear what your favorite stores are, so let me know in the comments!

Let's Get Away to Sports Fan Island

2019-06-21T09:00:00.000-04:00

Today marks the official start of summer, which means we have approximately three months to wear everything in our wardrobes that makes us feel beachy, bronzed and beautiful. Plus, summer is for sports fans with baseball season in full swing and football just around the corner (thank GOD!). That's why the tropical vibes over at Sports Fan Island caught my eye — somehow, someway, someone found a way to combine your favorite sports team with palm trees and exotic flowers, and it just feels so right. Whether you're planning a beach vacation this summer or just planning to lounge at the home front, this tropical-inspired fan clothing will have you feeling like you just landed in Sports Fan Island. BRB while I go book my flight. :)

Dallas Cowboys / Chicago Cubs

Golden State Warriors / Boston Red Sox

Miami Hurricanes / New England Patriots

But wait, there's more in even more teams! Click over to Sports Fan Island to shop their full selection of tropical sports fan clothing. Which one would you wear or gift to a sports fan?