Color Me Blue

Ombre Stripes

2012-05-23T20:46:00.000-07:00

(Betsey Johnson Sweater, INDi Denim Jeans, H&M Shoes)

A couple things to cover today. First of all, have you heard that Betsey Johnson filed for bankruptcy? It's devastating. I feel so rushed to grab every item she has before they're all gone! The sales are great, I'm not gonna lie, but oh how I'll miss the amazing Betsey. I'm not sure what exactly this means for her line, but I do know that her stores and online store are all going out of business. In fact, that are some crazy sales going on so take advantage.

Another thing I'd like to show you is this amazzinnnnggg line of custom jeans, INDi Denim. They're located here in SF and not only are the people so sweet and down to earth, but their jeans are fantastic. Visit their online store and follow the steps. The jeans I ordered fit perfectly and they're exactly what I wanted. I'm tempted to throw all my other dark wash skinny jeans away - seriously.

Lastly, I'm working on a new site that I'm SO excited to announce to the world but have been trying so hard to keep it inside until it's ready! I'll give you a hint for now....it's called Advice from a Twenty Something. COMING SOON!

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Cozy Summer

2012-05-21T20:18:00.000-07:00

(Gap Sweater & Tank, KUT Pants via Nordstrom, UO Sandals)

What to wear on an unexpectedly chilly summer day? White pants, a simple top, and a comfy neutral sweater. The light neutrals keep it summery, but the soft sweater keeps you warm and cozy. What do you wear on chilly summer days?

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I Would Live in Dresses

2012-05-19T15:20:00.003-07:00

(Sources: shopfrankies.tumblr.com, http://ginger-snapped.tumblr.com/, sterlingstylelove.tumblr.com, capecodcollegiate.tumblr.com, http://www.lateafternoonblog.com/)

The Perfect Spring Skirt

2012-05-09T10:00:00.000-07:00

(BB Dakota Skirt via Piperlime, Madewell Sweater, H&M Wedges)

How pretty is this skirt?? I can't get enough. Pleats, watercolor florals, cool hues mixed with bright oranges and yellows, a great length for this windy city, and just overall, perfect. What's your perfect spring skirt?

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Lilac & Navy

2012-05-08T09:00:00.000-07:00

(Madewell Top and Boots, J Brand Jeans, Urban Outfitters Necklace)

A color combo I can't seem to get enough of right now is lilac and navy. They just compliment each other so well. What color combo are you really into right now?

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Hopping On Board the Maxi Dress Train

2012-05-03T12:09:00.001-07:00

(1. Streetstyle.com 2. unknown 3. Peter Som Spring 2012

4. Atlantic Pacific 5. Tumblr 6. Refinery29 7. Free People)

As you may have seen in a previous post (as well as on Refinery29...yay!), I've finally hopped on board the maxi skirt train, so it was only a matter a time before I started drooling over maxi dresses as well. Similar to my thoughts on the maxi skirt, being picky about your maxi dress is my number one rule. It's easy to look frumpy, hippie dippie, homeless-esque (yes that's a new term), or even like a child playing dress-up in a floor length dress. However, with these choices above, I think you can't go wrong.

What do you think about the maxi dress trend?

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The Perfect Floral Jeans

2012-04-28T10:43:00.002-07:00

(7 For All Mankind Jeans, Urban Outfitters Top, Lucky Brand Boots, Similar Jacket)

In my opinion, people need to be more picky about their printed pants. Floral pants in particular. There are tons out there right now, but some of them verge on being too young, too retro, or just too busy. Just like any item of clothing, the print says a lot about the look. It took me a while to find the right pair, but I think these 7 For All Mankind jeans are perfection. They're floral yet artistic, with stunning colors and they fit like a glove.

What are your perfect printed jeans?

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Take It To The Maxi

2012-04-25T09:00:00.000-07:00

(Zara Top, Line & Dot Skirt, Vintage Belt, Style by Marina Jacket)

My first experience with a maxi skirt and here's what I think. First of all, when you walk in a room, it's like a grand entrance every time - and that, I like. However, it's also an accident waiting to happen. The skirt kept getting caught on my shoe or on my chair or on the stairs, and was so close to tearing, but in the end I got it under control. Some advice? Don't wear funky socks. I was convinced no one would see them under the skirt, but the number of times I had to lift my skirt to avoid it getting caught was way more than I expected...maybe people will think it's a new fashion statement?

What are your thoughts on the Maxi skirt trend?

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Literally everything I'm wearing is from Madewell...

2012-04-20T09:30:00.000-07:00

(Madewell Skirt, Shirt, Vest, Similar Shoes)

So apparently I'm a little obsessed...but Madewell is taking over my closet. I love when you can walk in a store and mix and match just about everything they have. Although a bit pricey, Madewell's clothes are good quality and often worth the price. I also associate it with Alexa Chung, my fashion icon, so that helps too :)

What do you think of Madewell?

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Peachy Keen

2012-04-18T18:18:00.000-07:00

(Free People Jeans, Theory Top, Martin & Osa Blazer)

Who says you can't wear colored denim to work? Add a polished blouse and blazer (to almost anything, except maybe booty shorts) and bam, your look is now work appropriate. I think every office could use a bit of color. Would you wear colored denim to the office?

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Spring Skirts & Sixties Sandals

2012-04-18T09:00:00.000-07:00

You know spring is here when these babies start coming on the scene. One of my favorite combos that I can't wait to snag this season is a flowy midi skirt and a funky pair of sixties inspired sandals. Gotta love a trend that's both chic and totally comfortable. Which look below is your favorite?

1. Jack by BB Dakota Monet Pleated Midi Skirt - $64

2. Collective Concepts Pleated Maxi Skirt - $69

3. Pim & Larkin Polka Dot Mini Skirt - $59

4. Sam Edelman Yelena - $140

5. Elizabeth and James Clair - $275

6. Seychelles Snapdragon - $90

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Back to Basics: The Classic Blue Jean

2012-04-03T20:29:00.000-07:00

(Madewell Top & Jeans, Michael Kors Heels, Urban Outfitters Necklace)

Now that jeans have become red, and pink, and yellow, and leopard, and all sorts of colors, the regular old blue jean is starting to feel a bit drab. When I ~~yank~~ open my (over-loaded) pants drawer in the morning, I've become very accustomed to going straight for the bright colors and pretty prints. But the classic blue jean will always be around, so I decided to put together a look that made me excited to wear them again. I hope you like :)

How do you spice up your classic blue jeans?

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And the 90's Are Back

2012-03-29T20:05:00.000-07:00

(Madewell Jeans, H&M Top, Madewell Boots)

I never would have thought, but yes, the nineties are back. When I first put on this outfit this morning, that thought didn't even cross my mind - until a coworker, who can actually remember 1991, unlike me (who was...3...), says this outfit is soooo '90s, with a modern twist of course. The sheer floral blouse, yes, very nineties. The bright colored jeans; isn't that more '80s? Maybe early '90s too. Either way, I never would have thought I would actually wear something reminiscent of the '90s - in my opinion, it wasn't the most flattering decade...but look at me now.

Also, are you sick of these shoes yet? Okay good, me neither.

Oh yea...and somehow my hair just keeps getting shorter and shorter...so weird. :)

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New Wardrobe Staple: Ted Baker Trench

2012-03-20T21:21:00.001-07:00

(Ted Baker Trench, J. Brand Jeans, Urban Outfitters Sweater)

To say this is the perfect coat is an understatement. It's a classic shape with a feminine flair, it's heavy enough to keep me warm in the cool San Francisco air, I would have never guessed how versatile this color would be, plus it has the most gorgeous lining - my favorite part. I can't wait to make this my new wardrobe staple! Thanks, Mom, for picking out the most perfect coat - you really are always right.

What's one of your wardrobe staples?

The Beach Bum's Office Attire

2012-03-12T09:00:00.001-07:00

(Urban Outfitters Sweater, American Apparel Skirt, Accessorize Ring, Lucky Brand Sandals)

When it comes to office attire, I feel like I'm a bit of a rebel. I refuse to work anywhere that requires the oh so predictable black pants and white shirt combo. Thank goodness for my creative work environment and the laid back mentality of California in general, or I don't know if I'd be able to get away with this look. Bring a bit of the beach bum vibe into your work wardrobe with bright colors, soft sandy neutrals, and by mixing casual pieces (like sandals) with more traditional ones (like a pencil skirt).

How do you bring your style into your work wardrobe?

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Do or Don't? White Pants in the Winter

2012-02-28T09:00:00.001-08:00

(Urban Outfitters Sweater, BDG Jeans, Similar Leather Jacket, DIY Necklace, Madewell Boots, NastyGal Scarf)

What are your thoughts on white pants in the winter? I've always thought it can be done, but I'm very particular about how it can be done. I'm not the biggest fan of white pants with knee high boots - something about the contrast is too much for me. But I think if you stick to soft neutrals, thick textured sweaters, and easy layers - then you can totally rock white pants in the winter.

Would you wear white pants in the winter? How would you make them work?

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You're Invited...

2012-02-26T16:28:00.000-08:00

Poshmark is a fantastic app where you can buy and sell clothing. Seriously, it's genius.

I'll be selling a hot little party dress at this Posh Party, so be sure to be there - either virtually or physically!

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Is this dress too short for work?

2012-02-24T09:00:00.001-08:00

(H&M Dress, Doma Leather Jacket, Madewell Boots)

While I do live in California, in San Francisco no less, and work for a creative-minded company, there comes a time when I have to ask myself: Is this dress too short for work? To make this dress more work appropriate, I think opaque black tights, or even leggings, would have been a better choice - but I just can't quite sacrifice my style for that.

Do you think this is too short for work?

Combining Trends: Pastels & Mixed Prints

2012-02-22T09:00:00.003-08:00

(Equipment Blouse, Similar Jeans, Madewell Boots)

First of all, how crazy is the fog behind me. Yup - that's fog - welcome to San Francisco. Anyways, back to the outfit. Combining two of-the-moment trends can easily be overwhelming. By picking one, more subtle trend that you're completely comfortable with (like pastels) and adding another (like mixed prints), the process can be less intimidating; and the result less psychotic looking. :)

What two trends would you try to combine?

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Runway to Real Way: The DailyBuzz Style 9x9

2012-02-21T22:26:00.000-08:00

Turn your favorite runway look from the Fall 2012 collections into an outfit you can wear in your everyday life. Choose a look that stands out to you, ask yourself what you like about it, and translate those aspects into a ready-to-wear outfit that suits your lifestyle.

Nanette Lapore Fall 2012

What I love about this look:

- The full skirt

- The fitted blouse

- The bold detail on the blouse

- The tights and booties

1. Oasis Blouse

2. ASOS Skirt

3. Qupid Boots

This post was for the DailyBuzz Style 9x9 Challenge. Our challenge was to choose a runway look and create a "real way" look inspired by it. See all posts from the month's 9x9 this Thursday on DailyBuzz Style.

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Affordable Floral Pants

2012-02-19T19:42:00.001-08:00

Dreaming of Spring....

Affordable Floral Pants by colormeblue featuring skinny leg pants

J.Crew skinny leg pants
$298 - jcrew.com

Dolce&Gabbana printed pants
£259 - farfetch.com

Highwaisted pants
$89 - warehouse.co.uk

Printed pants
$40 - topshop.com

Nail Inspiration

2012-02-19T18:32:00.000-08:00

(Click images for sources)

I'm loving black nails loaded with color. Working on a tutorial for you guys so you can achieve this yourself! (Without having to be experts at painting miniature rose buds - don't worry, I'll find a way around that).

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Investment Piece: Leather Skirt

2012-02-16T09:00:00.000-08:00

(Madewell Sweater and Skirt - Similar Skirt, Similar Sweater, Chelsea Crew Wedges, Hue Tights)

My latest advice? Get yourself some leather. There are few pieces I find worth "investing" in (i.e. spending more than $200 on), and this skirt is one of them. Wear it in the winter with a cozy cable knit sweater and some colorful tights, or in the spring with a chambray shirt and chunky sandals. Wear it to work, to play, seriously anywhere. It's one of those versatile pieces where quality makes such a difference.

What's your latest investment piece?

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What to Wear on Valentine's Day

2012-02-13T11:10:00.000-08:00

Happy almost Valentine's Day! Whether you're going on a first date, having a fun night out with your girls, or spending the night with your boyfriend, you have to plan your outfit accordingly. For example, you can't wear the same dress you'd wear on a night out with the ladies to a first date. A night out with the girls, in my world at least, usually consists of a tight little mini dress, your highest heels, and a mindset to dance. Now if you were to wear that little number on a first date, you might come off a little...easy...if you know what I mean. So take a look at these outfits below and dress depending on what your Valentine's Day plans are.

First Date: ASOS River Island Lace Skater Dress

Girl's Night Out: NastyGal Down Low Dress

For the Boyfriend: ASOS Hybrid Dress Bandeau with Winged Collar Detail

Nail Tutorial: A New Glitter Manicure

2012-02-08T06:08:00.000-08:00

Check out my latest nail tutorial - try it in any color combination you'd like. Warning, you will need a nail art brush or pen, and a steady hand. Good luck!

Step 1: Paint two coats of white polish and let dry.

Step 2: Create a form similar to an upside down triangle with the glitter polish. This shape does not need to be perfect since you'll be outlining the edges in the next steps.

Step 3: Use a nail art brush or pen to create the first "V" shape towards the edge of the glitter.

Step 4: Use a nail art brush or pen to create the second "V" shape and cover up any remaining glitter.

Let dry, then add top coat, and you're done!