my style vita

Flower Child

2013-06-17T05:30:00.000-04:00

London Times Lace Dress (gifted) | Flower Crown Society (gifted) | Guess Heels (similar) | Gap Vest

It's Summertime when I start wearing eyelet linen and flower crowns. London Times is kicking off a fun Summer Savvy contest where you can win $1,000. Details on how to enter here.

One of my favorite Summer Savvy things to do is head to Piedmont Park with my dog, Pork and a few friends. It's a great place to go for a nice walk, get some sun and fresh air. Then you've worked up an appetite which is the perfect excuse to head to Park Tavern (pups allowed!) and enjoy a cold beer and yummy food while watching park goers. What's your favorite Summer Savvy thing to do?

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Outfit du Jour | SBS Brunch

2013-06-14T04:30:00.000-04:00

As you saw in yesterdays post, this past weekend was a big accomplishment for myself and Cathy of Poor Little It Girl and our not so little project, Southern Blog Society. With the intentions of wearing a Rent The Runway dress by Milly, due to ummm looking like a sausage in it and busting out in every which way, I opted for one of my favorite casual yet still dressy pieces in my closet, my silk Club Monaco maxi. The right amount of gold jewelry and simple sandals, I still felt super dressed up without feeling overdone.

If you haven't joined Southern Blog Society yet, head on over and send us your application. Quarterly events are launching next month which is a great way to meet bloggers and resources in your area!

Photos By Rebekah Carson Photography

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Southern Blog Society Brunch Roundup

2013-06-13T04:00:00.000-04:00

As many of you have seen on my Instagram and Twitter, this last weekend was a BIG one for me and Cathy of Poor Little It Girl. Over a year ago we sat down to create a new, groundbreaking community for bloggers. A place to network, provide opportunities and build traffic to the bloggers websites. On January 7th we launched Southern Blog Society and had no clue what to expect. Would people want to join, would people find the value in the small membership fee and so on. The response has been beyond incredible. People are coming up to us telling Cathy and I how they've met new people in their towns, getting new traffic and receiving emails from brands. This is EXACTLY what we wanted. But what we really wanted, was that face to face interaction with our community. And on Sunday, we did just that. We hosted our first ever annual Southern Blog Society brunch. We kept it small with just fifteen members who were selected by a raffle for a ticket (sort of felt like Charlie and the Chocolate Factory with the golden ticket). We spent months planning this event and building the now coveted swag bags. It was so nice to see these bloggers in the flesh and get to meet and mingle with them.

We started off with drinks and mingling when they arrived, of course snapping outfit photos as they entered Cook Hall in the W Hotel. Then after a few drinks, we were ready to chow down on amazing food from smoked salmon Benedicts, french toast with sauteed cinnamon apples and garlic potatoes that me and Julie Leah couldn't get enough of. I hope no one saw, but Cathy and I definitely did a high five at some point. We couldn't believe what we pulled off and were beyond ecstatic knowing others were enjoying themselves.

Here are just a few photos of the event. Stay tuned for a full Outfit du Jour post of what I wore. And be sure to head on over to Poor Little It Girl for even more photos!

The cutest packaging from Twistband.

Julie Leah enjoying her swag bag.

The girl behind all these fabulous photos, as well as all my other ones on this blog. Beka of Rebekah Carson Photography. Can't thank her enough for doing such an amazing job capturing this day!

Two of my favorite gals here in Atlanta. Tia of The Fashion Lush and Mandy from Waiting on Martha. Both rocking their new Flower Crowns.

Never had eggs benedict before today, these were to die for!

All photos by Rebekah Carson Photography

A huge thank you to some of the people that made this happen.

Alice + Kenn Flowers

Rebekah Carson Photography

W Hotels & Allied

Cook Hall

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Not Sure Who I Am Today

2013-06-12T05:00:00.000-04:00

Alternative Apparel Maxi Dress | Arte17 Bangle | JellyPop Sandals (gifted)

So Beka (the lovely friend who takes ALL my pics) and I have been wanting to do something different. A little edgier, sexier, more bad ass. All things I thought I was already, honestly. But as soon as I put on this ridic dress, posed in front of a grafitti wall and took a shot with a fish eye lens, I learned something. I'm not any of those. I'm bitchy yes, I'm edgy in the fact I rock a faux leather jacket, but this gal, she is just not cool enough for this environment. I like to watch the Golden Girls and I thoroughly enjoy not having tattoos.

Either way, I thought I'd share these pics because they do look kind of awesome (to an extent) and I've worked pretty hard on my muscles which only seem to be defined in my back and nowhere else on my body (still waiting for you 6 pack, still waiting....) so you're welcome, I think. Enjoy. And maybe you'll get the girly, light, pretty version of these in the near future. Maybe.

Photos by Rebekah Carson Photography

Shop The Look

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East vs West Coast - Denim Shorts

2013-06-11T08:00:00.000-04:00

I have to say for one, these shorts used to fit a little different last year.... as in they were never this tight, thank you CrossFit.

One of my favorite things to throw on when it gets warm and muggy out, are a great pair of denim shorts. Since it's been kinda of gross out here in Atlanta, pairing them with booties and a simple blouse was the only way to make this work. Plus, you feel a little more badass with booties and shorts on. It's kind of like the hipster thing to do, right? Right, I'm so not a hipster and thank you for noticing.

Today marks the beginning of a four week blogger collaboration and challenge I've been working on. Check out how our East and West coast bloggers styled their denim shorts.

Living After Midnite | The Right Shoes | Golden Divine | Pursuit of Shoes | Oomph

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Oh My Fashion

2013-06-10T06:00:00.000-04:00

Sometimes I doubt the ability for Atlanta to have a true fashion scene. Thursday night I was invited to attend the Fab'rik charity fashion show to showcase their new White Collection. Lots of fabulous prints that I was swooning over. So I only thought it was appropriate to wear my FASHION tee. It's a must.

It was also so nice to see my cousin there. She was so sweet to snap a few photos of me.

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Happy Donut Day

2013-06-07T09:00:00.000-04:00

Nothing has changed. NOTHING.

If you know me at all, you know that donuts are my absolute weakness. I love them. I love that they're glazey and sticky on the outside, and cake like and moist on the inside. I love that they're easy to hold thanks to the convenient hole in the middle. I also love how nicely they go with an iced coffee. Hell, I can't think of anything I don't like about a donut except for the fact that it makes me fat.

Clearly they've been an obsession of mine since I was wearing Osh Kosh. And what do you know, glazed chocolate cake is STILL my favorite flavor. Today's National Donut Day. I'll be celebrating by shoving one of these amazing treats in my face. Don't' mind if I do!

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6 Month Anniversary

2013-06-07T05:30:00.001-04:00

This weekend is going to be a pretty epic weekend. For one, Southern Blog Society turns 6 months old today. I am beyond proud of what Cathy Anderson of Poor Little It Girl and I have created. A place for all types of bloggers in the South to network, obtain resources and connect.

On Sunday, we are excited to host our first annual Southern Blog Society brunch with 15 amazing bloggers. What was just a small idea (okay it was a big idea) in a Starbucks days before Cathy jetted off to DC, is coming to life in a matter of days. Stay tuned for an event recap of what went down. You won't want to miss this post!

There's so much more to come with this community. Quarterly events hosted by yours truly and all of our great State Reps in each State. More exclusive insider deals, updates and invites to offer to our members and more. This community has only begun and I hope you take the time to send in your application to join. We'd love to have you!

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Style Challenge & A Giveaway Part 4

2013-06-06T05:30:00.000-04:00

If you didn't notice, brights are in. Like REALLY in. It's even believed that it's the reason retail numbers are increasing after being in the dumps for quite some time now. People are drawn to color and the bold hues in all the stores truly get people excited. This is a fact people. I'm not making this up. I do know a thing or two about fashion (besides being a blogger I work 9-5 in fashion, so there, it's legit info). I love bold colors because they instantly make me feel less bitchy and more happy. It helps me come off nicer, because sometimes I come off a little bitchy and cold (so I've been told, but I just don't see it).

PS Huge thanks to my co-worker Mandy for snapping these photos. I think we may need to make this a regular thing! She rocked this little impromptu shoot.

To enter for a chance to win one of the four shoes featured in this series, enter the form below. If you've already liked us on Facebook, we've added a new entry for you for extra chances to win. Good luck!

Shop The Look

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lululemon Event Recap - Puppies Galore!

2013-06-04T04:30:00.000-04:00

lululemon Make It Count Tank (gifted) | lululemon Run Inspire Crop ii (gifted) | Ryka Shoes (gifted) | 6 Degrees Hairties (gifted) | NYC lip stain in Forever Fuchsia (gifted)

As you may have noticed on my Instagram over the weekend, I got to spend some quality time with these adorable little puppies from the Atlanta Humane Society with my bff Rachel of One Life, Balanced. We spent the afternoon shopping, drinking and playing with these little guys all to raise some money for Atlanta Humane. It was such a fun afternoon and couldn't be more excited that we raised money for such a great charity.

A big thank you to our sponsors for the evening. Sinless Cocktails, Cawoods Nutty Butter and lululemon. Thank you to everyone for coming out to support this cause that means so much to me.

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Soda Pop And Denim Vests

2013-06-03T05:00:00.000-04:00

So.... I haven't taken this damn denim vest off since I bought it. I throw it over absolutely everything. It's only a matter of time before my co-workers start to notice, but let's be honest (really lezbe-honest Jersey Shore style) they've already noticed.

For a good read. Ashley from Witty+Pretty had me rolling on the floor laughing with this post.

And don't forget to enter the Restricted Footwear giveaway here.

Shop The Post

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Odds & Ends

2013-05-31T06:30:00.000-04:00

Much needed girls lunch at the office. Nothing beats tacos and chips and salsa on a patio.

Caught Pork mid yawn. Somehow she makes people believe her life is so rough.

Memorial Day necessities. Fedora, sunnies, boardshorts and Mr. Duckie.

My latest flower obsession, peonies. Never really thought of them until they were at Whole Foods in perfect pink hues. They look simply perfect on an end table.

If you're in the Atlanta area, definitely stop by the lululemon event on Sunday from 5:30 to 7:30. Details here. And psssst! There's rumored to be two puppies to play with while you shop! Be sure to bring your cash to buy raffle tickets. 100% of the proceeds will go to Atlanta Humane Society.

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Style Challenge & A Giveaway Part 3

2013-05-30T05:00:00.000-04:00

One of my favorite trends to wear lately is colorblocking. You can do it so easily by wearing just two bold pieces or find it in a statement piece like these colorblocked pumps from Restricted Footwear. I love the lace detail too. Like these shoes? You can win a pair for yourself by entering the giveaway below!

Photos by Rebekah Carson Photography

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Currently Coveting

2013-05-29T08:19:00.003-04:00

It's no lie that I'm completely obsessed with everything and anything that Club Monaco puts out there. And their latest arrivals are no different. This adorable cut out dress is perfection and I may need to splurge on this ASAP. Which ones your favorite?

Cut-Out Dress | Floral Skirt | Two-Tone Clutch | Sleeveless Jacket

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You're Lucky I'm Wearing Pants

2013-05-28T05:30:00.000-04:00

Be shocked that I'm wearing pants right now. The second it gets over 75 degrees, I instantly want to run around with as little clothing on as possible. However, I work in an office. You know, cubicles, computers and so on. I have to have clothing on. Do I like that? No. Do I wear clothes and deal with it? Yes. I suppose if I want to keep my awesome job that I love so much, I will continue to wear clothing.

And I just have to share this one. Thanks to my bestie for sending this to me. Check out this link for 23 tips to parents taking selfies. You're welcome.

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Happy Memorial Day

2013-05-27T05:30:00.000-04:00

Image courtesy of Dylan York

If you follow me on Instagram, you know this little rubber ducky made its way through a shit show of fun a few Sundays ago. Well he's back for the long weekend!

Memorial Day to me means pool time, BBQ and a new tradition, Murph at CrossFit (wish me luck, it's my first time doing it!) Let's just say I'm excited to have a day off to enjoy some sunshine.

Here's to all the brave men and women who have died serving our country. Happy Memorial Day!

Michael Kors Sunglasses | Nail Polish Sally Hansen in Barracuda (gifted)

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Leather In May

2013-05-24T05:30:00.000-04:00

I've been slightly obsessed with this skirt ever since it came into my life mid-winter. It's mid-Spring almost Summer and I feel it's totally appropriate to still wear it, right? Right. Scalloped edges and eyelet cutouts means it's an all weather skirt. Deal with it.

Don't forget to enter the giveaway for a pair of Restricted shoes. Four lucky readers will win! Good luck and have a great weekend!

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Style Challenge & A Giveaway Part 2

2013-05-23T04:30:00.000-04:00

Photos by Rebekah Carson Photography

Part two of the Restricted Footwear style challenge is underway. This particular trend is one of my favorites and you've seen me wear it here recently. Black and white is such an easy way to go when you have no clue what to wear. I love adding a colorful statement necklace to a basic look like this.

As you may have seen on my instagram, I had to go out and buy ALL new shorts thanks to a huge ass I'm growing due to CrossFit. It's a double edged sword for many reasons. I love my shorts, it's my go to choice in the warmer months over dresses and skirts, but it also means I get to go buy all new ones. It was hard to justify new shorts considering I own at least 30 currently. Yes, 30. It's up there with my shoe obsession. Shorts are just my favorite.These Express tuxedo shorts were a must, they also came in black with a white stripe which I can't wait to wear.

Don't forget to enter the Restricted Footwear giveaway below. Four winners will be chosen! Good luck.

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Blogger Q&A Vol. 2

2013-05-22T05:00:00.000-04:00

Blogger Q&A Vol. 2. Media Kit 101

What Is A Media Kit?

You media kit is a quick answer to any question or inquiry a brand might have. It's a representation of what your blog is about, what your blog has done and what you're willing to do as a blogger. It also tells brands what sort of readership you have and influence.

A great media kit covers all the bases. A little backstory on who you are, what your blog is about and a touch of personality that they can expect. Mine mentions Pork, CrossFit, how I ended up in Atlanta as well as my new venture, Southern Blog Society. This way brands get to know you a little better past your "About" page (which I stress the importance of this here).

Next you want to talk numbers. From unique visitors to social media stats. You want brands to see what sort of influence you have across all platforms. So sit down, dig into your Google Analytics and start getting these must have numbers in your media kit.

A few things you HAVE to have in your media kit

Your numbers: Unique visitors, Pageviews, Visits

Social Media Stats

Past Partnerships - brag a little and include a link to each one so they can see your work

Options on how to work together - ads, sponsored posts, outfit posts, giveaways and so on.

It's important to use accurate data in your media kit, so be sure to use your Google Analytics to ensure accuracy. Also, update your kit often so that your numbers match your social media sites.

A media kit does not have to be lengthy or difficult to create. It should be branded with your blog and personality and simply give the details that brands are looking for in a quick page (or two). Additional documents you can make if you're feeling ambitious, are an advertising rate sheet and branded invoices. An advertising rate sheet can just be a one sheeter for basic advertising rates on your blog with a few terms and conditions. Make sure to have a snapshot of your numbers on this page to make it easy for your potential advertisers to decide. Another document I recently created was an invoice template. Super easy to make and really comes in handy when working with large brands. It really makes you look professional and that you mean business. Literally, because you just made an invoice, duh.

What other blogging questions do you have? Let me know in the comments and I'll try to get them answered!

A little disclaimer, I don't know everything. At all. Everything I've learned took a REALLY long time to figure out. But the things I do know, I feel like I'm pretty damn good at.

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A Marilyn Moment

2013-05-20T05:00:00.000-04:00

Sometimes you just have to wear a pleated skirt and enjoy the Marilyn moments that sometimes happen when you least expect them.

Wore this little black dress out to a friends birthday on Friday. I have to say, it's my new favorite piece in my closet. It's beyond comfortable and the leather piping just makes it. But beware, some of my girlfriends thought this zipper was free range for pulling down. Good thing I stayed sober enough to keep everything in my dress.

Photos by Rebekah Carson Photography

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Style Challenge & A Giveaway Part 1

2013-05-16T04:30:00.000-04:00

Restricted Footwear and MSV have teamed up for a 4 week Spring trend challenge. With four shoes to work with, I'll be showing you my four favorite trends of the season. So be sure to check back each week to see! This week's trend is one of my favorites, boho. It's definitely my go to look in the Spring time.

And lucky you (actually four of you!), you get a chance to win one of the shoes featured. All you have to do is like Restricted Footwear and My Style Vita on Facebook. Giveaway ends on June 20th at midnight. US residents only, must be 18 years or older to enter.

Bonus points for following us both on Twitter!

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Lessons To Be Learned

2013-05-15T05:00:00.000-04:00

Photos by Rebekah Carson Photography

Being presented with a style challenge from TJ Maxx has taught me many things from how to be a better stylist to how to master a discount store. I have to be honest here, I was never a discount shopper. I think I strolled into one every few months only to get frustrated and storm out and headed to the nearest boutique for perfectly merchandised clothing.

However, I learned some very valuable lessons on this journey that I thought I'd share. Discount stores don't have to be stressful or intimidating. As a matter of fact I found some amazing pieces that I'm really excited about thanks to this challenge. Here are my 5 no fail tips to conquering a discount store.

Grab one to two sizes in everything - Discounters receive inventory from companies for many reasons and fit can sometimes be one of them. This doesn't mean the clothing won't fit you right, it just means you may need to go up or down a size to find the PERFECT fit. So be sure to grab at least two of something if they have it. You'll be more likely to find the right size this way.

Shop The Perimeter FIRST - Just like a grocery store, the perimeter of a discount store is the sweet spot. This is where the new product is and it's usually merchandised nicely with other pieces. You'll get more of a department store experience by doing this first. Head into the middle when you're ready to dig.

Get Friendly With the Store Clerk - Have no shame in asking the check out lady when they get their shipments in. This is key to finding the BEST stuff first. My Tj Maxx gets a new shipment on Fridays, so when I remember, I head there on Friday versus any other day to make sure I'm seeing what's new.

Shop In Order - Leave the shoes, accessories and home stuff for later. You can't take it in to the fitting room anyway so focus on clothing first. Try it on, figure out what you like, then head to the other departments. Breaking it up will seem less daunting, plus you'll be able to match your new bag and new shoes to your new outfit. A better way to get more for your money if you ask me.

Bring an ~~Assistant~~ Friend - Sometimes I like to think my bestie over at One Life, Balanced is my assistant, but she's really just in it to borrow my clothes. But trust me, you need someone with you to help you make better decisions. You can easily get excited over a heavily discounted item, but it may not fit right or be worth the splurge still. Having a friend with you to keep you in check is a great way to find pieces you'll love forever.

See all my TJ Maxx looks here.

These are some of my favorite tips for shopping in discount stores. How do you stay on track and don't end up with the wrong items?

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Currently Coveting | Everything Bailey 44

2013-05-14T05:30:00.000-04:00

I recently started following Bailey 44 on Instagram and noticed that everything that they post I'm obsessed with It seems like their entire collection is full of black and white color-blocking which always gets me excited. Their dresses are stunning and simple, but can easily transition from day to night. This color-blocked shift dress from Bailey 44 is the perfect dress for so many reasons. Wear it as is to make a bold color statement or add a leopard belt, boots, sandals, whatever. I truly can't think of any way NOT to wear this. Add tights and boots for fall and voila. This little shift is a must for every closet and won't put a huge dent in your wallet.

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Instagrammed

2013-05-10T09:31:00.000-04:00

Even though Instagram generates ZERO traffic to my blog, it's by far my favorite social media platform. I think because it keeps peoples opinions away and simply is a vehicle for pretty photos, it's become my favorite. Here are a few highlights from this week And don't forget to follow me on instagram HERE!

1. A muddy mess at the Shaky Knees Festival with some friends.

2. Celebrating Cinco di Mayo with Nugget, my niece.

3. More Cinco shenanigans at El Taco with the bestie.

4. Celebrating birthdays with Grandma and my big sister. This was my first baked Alaskan and it was AMAZING.

5. Writing some overdue thank you notes with my Breathless Paper Co. cards (courtesy of).

6. Received a fabulous chevron clutch courtesy of a local blogger/designer Pocket of Presh.

7. Checking out some designer dresses at the Rent The Runway event last night.

8. Sporting a new anchor necklace courtesy of Hearts.com. Use code MYSTYLE30 for 30% off your entire purchase!

9. A slew of new Sally Hansen nail polishes, lip color and NYC goodies too. Officially painting my nails on my lunch break today.

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You're Invited | lululemon Event

2013-05-09T05:30:00.000-04:00

FINALLY! I'm so excited to announce this amazing event I'm hosting with my blogging friend (and actual friend) Rachel of One Life, Balanced on June 2nd. The few things that make me happy in life are CrossFit, tequila and animals. So I'm happy to announce that this event will encompass all of these things and more.

Head on over to lululemon at the Howell Mill location in West Midtown on June 2nd from 5:30-7:30pm to enjoy complimentary Sinless Margaritas, Cawoods Nuttybutter samples all while shopping the latest arrivals at my favorite place, lululemon. But wait, there's more...

We don't want you to leave empty handed, so two lucky shoppers will win a goody bag filled with Cawood's Nuttybutter, Sinless Cocktails mix and a $75 gift card to lululemon. Yes I suppose there's a catch. In order to be entered to the raffle, you will have to purchase a $1 raffle ticket. 100% of the proceeds of this raffle will be remitted to the Atlanta Humane Society. So you'll be saving puppies! Yay! There is no maximum raffle tickets you can buy and all donations are welcome.

Hope to see you there!

RSVP by emailing me HERE.

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