Pantone on Tone

In revisiting my own archives, I stumbled upon this post where I discussed "tone on tone" via Diane Von Furstenberg's pre-fall 2011 lookbook and introduced the idea of using Pantone color charts to find which colors to wear to achieve the look. Now, almost two years later, I'm inspired all over again! Whether it's shades of pink, purple, red, or blue, it's safe to say that this escalation of color blocking is a sure fire way to ring in spring! Do yourself a favor and pile on pastels, neons, and brights in one color family from your ears to your toes.

Green wide leg trousers (similar here and here), American Apparel tank, Worthington cropped blazer, Hobo clutch (similar and on sale), BaubleBar necklace (similar here and here)

A Weekend Date

Now that it's Friday (phew), you and your honey or group of gal pals will be likely heading out to the newest BYOB, gastropub, or sushi joint and therefore need something a little fancier than the other two types of dates (seen here and here). I never tire of working a high/low look for a date night - a little casual and a little fancy. A striped tee is the perfect cute & casual top and will make that special skirt that you wore last Christmas (think lace, sequins, jacquard. or any other embellishment) very appropriate for spring. The finishing touches? A jean jacket, bright clutch, and leg lengthening nude sandals. Have a great weekend!

American Apparel tee and belt, Akira skirt (similar), Old Navy jean jacket, Adrienne Vittadini sandals, Bennetton clutch (similar), Tory Burch sunnies

Lately (May Edition)

I'm a sucker for a sale. $5 off $25? 30% off? Free shipping with minimum purchase? My credit card is in hand faster than you can say, "Are you aware of our return policy?" At times, I realize that a new piece just isn't going to be as versatile as imagined, so back to the store I go for a refund or merchandise credit, which occurred with this purchase. Other times I realize that I unknowingly bought something similar to what is already in my closet. If that is the case, I head to the nearest Crossroads Trading Co. to consign the older and less loved piece (which happened with this blouse) and give way for the newer and better - it's Darwinism, people!

Here's what I've bought this month, so stay tuned and see how I will style the pieces.

Apt 9 Striped Blazer and American Apparel Stripe Long Sleeve Boat Neck shirt

Adrienne Vittadini Prim Platform Sandal and American Apparel Basic Leather Belt in lilac 

Jennifer Lopez Chevron Wide Leg Pants and Simply Vera Wang Jacquard Skinny Pants

Not So Fast

Unless you are a Chicagaoan vacationing somewhere warm like me, you're still experiencing frigidness - thank goodness for Florida! While the calendar promised spring, it seems that the mumblings and grumblings about the cold wil not dissipate for a bit yet. Therefore, keep your sweater tights, wool coats, and gloves in close reach.

NY & Co leather jacket, American Apparel sweater, XXI blouse, Charming Charlie brooch, vintage plaid skirt, Audrey Brooke booties