my everyday style: wardrobe foundations (+ a giveaway)!

Classic wardrobe pieces are the foundations of our closets AND our everyday outfits.  Lately I've been trying to focus more on the foundations… both acquiring them and wearing them on a regular basis.  The more I do this, the more I find getting dressed easier each morning.  I know I talk a lot about "making getting dressed easy" - sometimes I feel like a broken record - but really the easier it is to get dressed each morning, the better I feel all day.  When what I am wearing fits great and feels great it's less trips in and out of the closet each morning and less second guessing ourselves.  Do you feel the same?

Wardrobe foundations like black jeans, classic cardigans and timeless tops like this silk one seem to make my life so much easier!  Let's not forget the foundations under the foundations either.  Perfectly fitting and gorgeous intimates are the foundation to any outfit also - and are just as important!  Today I am partnering with Kohl's to chat about their intimates as an essential piece of any outfit.  They have an absolute HUGE selection of intimates for whatever your body style and preference. I am always blown away when I visit the store to try bras on.  There are literally hundreds of options.  Or you can shop online too… and don't forget to access their measuring resources before you go. You never know if your size has changed and I find their online tool to be helpful in determining your correct size.

Read on to see my favorite bras I found at Kohl's recently and for an awesome giveaway!!!

(photos above by Tracy Carmody)

Outfit Details:

Cardigan, Forever 21

Blouse, J.Crew Factory (similar or similar)

Jeans, Old Navy (or similar)

Flats, Sam Edelman

Necklace, Gorjana via Rocksbox (use code: jillggxoxo to get a FREE month of Rocksbox subscription for a limited time, or 50% off your first box after that)

top two lace bras, middle strapless bra, bottom two lightly lined bras

or shop the entire collection here!

Now for the fun part!  Use the Rafflecopter widget below to enter to win a $200 gift card to Kohl's - how awesome is that!? Winner must in the US (48 states) and must follow the Rafflecopter guidelines to be properly entered.  Good luck!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

late spring/early summer: GO-TO outfits...

As the temps warm and the sun starts showing her beautiful face I am pleased as punch to whip out the spring and summer clothes that I have been stashing away.  From tanks to dresses to short sleeve shirts to shorts... the clothes that were a big tease and practically meaningless four months ago, finally get their time in the spot light.

Here are a few of my GO-TO outfit combos as the temps warm... we are in the 70's if we are lucky and still lots of 60's and rain. So I'm not in full on summer mode yet, but these outfits make the best of the weather and my mood to dress lighter.

SHORTS + LONG SLEEVES

This look works wonderfully for still chilly mornings or evenings and as with any outfit this time of year, layers are key. If you are more of a skirt person... swap out the shorts for a skirt!

(above: earrings, shorts, top, sandals, sunglasses, nail polish)

PANTS + TANK + LIGHT JACKET

I keep extra tanks in my closet so that they can be worn with warm layers in the winter and on their own in the spring and summer.  So this time of year I am excited to wear them without as many layers! Pop on a light jacket and you are set to go!

(above: earrings, pants, top, shoes, clutch, jacket)

JEANS + SHORT SLEEVES + SCARF

The ultimate in simplicity and style... I just love a casual look now and then and jeans and a short sleeve top can always deliver.  I depend on jeans year round, what can I say? I'm a fan!

(above: jeans, bracelet, top, wedges, scarf)

I hope I gave you some great ideas for your own go-to outfits for spring - 

do you have any of your own go-to formulas?

white out... can you pull it off?

After seeing all of the fun 'white out' outfits earlier today, you may be asking yourself... can I pull this look off too?!?! Of course you can!   Here are some simple ways to do it yourself... it's actually fun to mix and match a bunch of whites and beiges - and oh so easy!

(above: ring, shoes, dress, nail polish, cardigan, bracelet)

(above: skirt, top, earrings, clutch, sandals)

(above: clutch, pants, top, shoes, nail polish, bracelets)

What are you thinking of this fun trend!?!?

get shorty...

I used to NEVER wear shorts... and now that I think back, I don't know for what reason.  I would be the one sweating it out on a 5,000 degree day in jeans and a tank top. Which, admittedly I still do sometimes.  But I do like shorts more and more these days and plan on wearing them tons this summer.

I usually gravitate towards jean shorts (big surprise) or just khaki shorts, but there are so many other fun options on the market lately for shorts beyond just the basics. Check these out!

(above: bracelet, shorts, top, shoes, watch, bag)

(above: sunglasses, clutch, shorts, top, belt, ring, sandals)

(above: sunglasses, clutch, shorts, top, necklace, shoes)

So are you ready to rock some shorts this summer? 

design your look with Jess LC!

DON'T VOTE HERE ANYMORE... HEAD ON OVER TO JESS'S BLOG TO VOTE THERE!!!!

Jess LC is hosting a super-fun challenge... just style up an outfit featuring two pieces of jess lc jewelry for a chance to win $200 AND some great Jess LC jewelry pieces! What a great way to start your spring shopping!

Here are the two outfits I put together. I couldn't decide which look I liked the best... maybe you can help me decide which one to submit!?!?

One. Casual Saturday Sweetness...

(above: bracelet, pants, top, glasses, shoes, necklace, nail polish)

Two. Summer Business Casual...

(above: earrings, jeans, yellow top, cardigan, necklace, shoes, clutch)

Okay ladies... pipe up! Which is your favorite? Let me know! I'm going to need your votes eventually any way! (you all don't mind helping a gal out, do you!?!?)

espadrilles!

Oh my goodness espadrilles (pronounced: sssss-pa-drills) are everywhere lately! I can't get enough of them, as they are so sweet and just scream 'summer'! Espadrilles are defined as: A shoe usually having a fabric upper part and a sole made of a flexible material, such as rope or rubber.


Here are a few that I am loving and some simple ways to style them as well...

(gold, pink, red, black)

... with a simple sundress.

(above: dress, earrings, belt, bag, shoes)

... with cuffed jeans.

(above: sunglasses, jeans, top, shoes, necklace, purse)

... with short (or any length) shorts.

(above: sunglasses, ring, shorts, top, scarf, shoes)

Do you have a favorite? I know I do! 

Monday morning inspirations...

I try (emphasis on TRY) to lay out a few outfits on Sunday nights to get me through the week - or at least get me started.  There is nothing worse than trying to get dressed in the morning and being tired and already worn out from your kids running through the house at mach speed all before 8am (I'm SO not a morning person).  It's too frazzled for me.

Lately I want just super simple outfits... I don't mind layering (since it's still chilly) but I just want the outfits to make me say "ahhhhh...." when I put them on.  You know?  These outfits all have that vibe for me - I'm hoping they inspire some great outfits for me this week (and you too!?!?).  The first two I actually plan to (try) recreate with similar pieces from my wardrobe... the third is mostly just a wish list (need list?!?!?) - as I have been loving those pants and a navy cape for a while!

(above: scarf, jeans, top, earrings, shoes, blazer, clutch)

(above: bracelet, jeans, top, flats, umbrella, scarf)

(above: earrings, pants, top, nail polish, cape, flats)

think spring, now!

I'm likely not the only one thinking about warmth and sunshine and spring right now... even though the temps are likely to start feeling like spring for a while (at least here in Michigan). But I still long for a certain fresh feeling in my wardrobe regardless.

Here are some fun outfits that look like spring... but that are still practical enough to wear right now. Ands once the temps do start to rise... you can shed the boots and jackets and still wear these items!


Polka dots and red jeans? What says fresh and spring more than this? I just love this outfit!

 (above: boots, red jeans, top, earrings, jacket, clutch)

For some reason navy blue is always a perfect spring color... even though it's dark.  This jacket is perfect for pre-spring and paired with yellow and white: I'm in love.  I need to recreate this soon!

(above: sunglasses, white jeans, top, boots, jacket, nail polish, ring) 

Simple layers and bold colors are always fun for spring. I love the understated sophistication of this look.

(above: scarf, jeans, top, bracelet, jacket, shoes)

I'm definitely going to start thinking spring with my clothes... what about you?

bling in the New Year... (work it wednesday!)

Bling in the New Year, get it!?!? I was pretty proud of that little pun...

How are you planning to spend your New Year? Sequins are definitely in order... and whether you have a quiet evening at home with a loved one, a house party with 100 of your closest friends or a night out on the town... I've got outfits for each. Check them out!

Quiet evening at home...

(leggings, top, cowl, boots, earrings)

Fun night with friends...

(jeans, top, necklace, shoes, coat, ring)

Painting the town red...

(skirt, sweater, shoes, tights, clutch, ring)

~~~

So dish! What are your New Years Eve plans!?!?

little black dress... three ways!

Technically this is a Work it Wednesday post, but since it's Thursday - I'm just calling it "three ways"! Here are three fun ways to wear a little black dress this season and look super chic and festive!

If you want more fun and festive holiday looks, check out my Winter & Holiday looks:book!

I'm crushing on faux fur coats in all sorts of ways... you may have noticed!

(dress, necklace, ring, shoes, jacket, clutch)

Blue shoes are sure to brighten up any party!

(dress, earrings, bracelet, handbag, shoes)

I love a good long sleeved dress... and it's a little warmer for the winter!

(dress, bracelet, small purse, shoes, scarf, tights)

~~~

Happy holiday party season!

good look for less, EXPRESS!

Today's EXPRESS consult is for Amanda... she is a teacher by day and mom by, well... the rest of the time. She wanted looks that were casual and trendy, yet age appropriate (early 30's) for her busy lifestyle outside of the classroom. Think: activities and sporting events for her kids, spending time with friends and errands. Let's take a look at the looks, shall we?

I love the simple but refined look of this outfit.  A top that has a little bit of a flowy nature is very forgiving and also right on trend.  These jeans are Gap's "straight" fit and are perfect if you aren't into an ultra skinny look but still want something you can tuck into boots.

(jeans, top, earrings, boots, watch, bag)

Pretty much you know that I am ALL about Gap jeans, there is something for everyone and in general they offer the same fit and finishes of the high end brands, just at about 25% of the price.  Their Long and Lean fit, featured below, is a great style for all body types and very flattering.  I added some simple and cozy layers, perfect for winter!

(jeans, top, necklace, shoes, cardigan, clutch)

Leggings are like the magic bullet for busy moms... they are just as comfy as yoga pants, but can be jazzed up with a simple tunic and fun flats to pull off a major chic look with tons of comfort.  Truly the best of both worlds.

(bracelets, leggings, tunic, clutch, jacket, flats)

Happy Shopping Amanda!

~~~

Interested in learning more about my wardrobe consultation services? Click here!

work it wednesday: Minnetonka boots!

I snagged these Minnetonka boots at Nordstrom Rack recently... I have had a pair on my wish list since fall and some Nordie's gift cards burning a hole in my pocket too. Of course, you won't see them ON me until the 30/30 Challenge is over, but I couldn't pass over them in the store since they were the last pair IN MY SIZE. I seem to have the best luck with that lately...

Work it Wednesday is the oldest running series here on the blog where I take one clothing item and show you how to "work" it several ways in your wardrobe!

Here's some fun ways to style them... no?

(sunglasses, jeans, sweater, watch, vest, boots)

(leggings, belt, top, bracelet, scarf, boots)

(ring, pants, top, scarf, blazer, boots)

I can't wait to wear them!

what to wear: thanksgiving!

The big day is here tomorrow! The number one eating day of the year! I love Thanksgiving, because it's just food and family and fun and no gifts or stress or anything. This year I am hosting and I am so excited about making all the food and pies and of course the turkey!

Of course, the biggest question... what will you be wearing?

I would call this look dressy-casual. A touch of glamour but nothing too over the top... and how about those shoes... yes, please! I love a long coat with a dress - so classic.

(dress, shoes, bracelets, earrings, coat, clutch)

I'm more a of a super-casual type for holidays. This outfit would be right up my alley. A few layers for warmth and come comfy chic jeans for lounging after the meal. Of course some sweet leopard print shoes can jazz this look right up!

(jeans, sweater, top, bracelet (single), earrings, bracelet (double), shoes)

If you are looking for a more trendy look for your meal... I love this! Roomy and stylish shorts paired with a classic sweater and gorgeous jewelry. Mmmmm... I love this look!

(shorts, sweater, tights, necklace, ring, boots)

Whatever you wear... have a great day! Check around here this weekend for some Black Friday deals and other fun stuff! Happy Thanksgiving!

good look for less, EXPRESS!

Today's EXPRESS consult is for Valerie... she is a super busy stay-at-home that wants to look pulled together... you know; cool, calm and collected! She emailed me and said she mostly likes to wear dresses and is also loving leggings this season.

If you read my blog, you know I am not a huge "dress" person, I don't know why. I love the way they look... but mostly on others! So it was a stretch for me personally to come up with some fun casual dress-based outfits. But I had a ton of fun with it... let's take a look at the outfits! Even though I don't consider myself to be a "dress" person - I would wear these outfits for sure!

Leggings are a great staple for a busy mom... make sure to stock up on some great tunic-length tops to pair them with like this one. Such a simple outfit formula... but very chic and classic!

(leggings, necklace, earrings, top, jacket, flats)

A simple cotton dress can go along way... this one for instance is perfect for spring or fall, or like this with a cardigan for fall. Easy-peasy! I love the fun of adding purple tights with this outfit. An unexpected dash of sophistication!

(dress, cardigan, bracelet, tights, boots)

Plaid is back! In full effect... I love this simple dress and the tie at the waist gives the dress great shape. Add in some fun accessories and a military style jacket and voila!

(dress, jacket, boots, tights, ring, scarf)

~~~

Interested in learning more about my wardrobe consultation services?

Click here!

maternity wardrobe consults!

In the past few weeks I have done not one, but TWO maternity wardrobe consults! If you are expecting a baby as well, I thought it would be fun to post a few of the outfits to give you some inspiration on outfits as your belly grows... and if you are not (like me) you can ohh and ahh over the cute "belly" centered outfits. (keep in mind these outfits are a mish-mash of two consults... I'm just bringing you all the best of the best!)

I think there are two types of basics that can really make your maternity wardrobe work for you. Great bottoms (well fitting jeans and leggings are a great place to start) and fun accessories. You won't grow out of accessories, promise!

(jeans, top, bracelet, necklace, flats)

It's fun to snag a couple items, like this shimmery top that are a little more dressy. Especially with the holidays coming up or for when you need (mentally) to feel a little extra special!

(leggings, top, necklace, cardigan, flats)

Somehow I unconsciously chose the same pair of flats for each gal. But flats are key when you are pregnant... you want something that you can keep good footing with and also that you can slip on and off easily (no ties!). Plus, I was always the queen of slipping my shoes off at work! Then when your co-w0rkers or boss comes by you can slip them back on quick! ha!

(jeans, top, sweater, flats)

Another trick I loved while pregnant was stealing super flowy and roomy items from the "regular" shops... this dress is from Forever 21, but has more than enough room for a growing belly when layered over leggings!

(leggings, dress, flats)

~~~

Interested in learning more about my wardrobe consultation services? Click here!