White-On-White

With a simple, white-on-white ensemble, less (color) is definitely more. Such an outfit can be either refined or laid back and casual. But in either case, all white on a sunny day, is perfection. The combination of a white tee with equally bright white cut-offs. The more thoughtful ensemble of a white button down, paired with a white blazer and skinny white denim. An all white suit with neutral heels. Accessible at any budget and in any style. A clean, fresh look, perfect for an afternoon of shopping with friends or for a more formal occasion. 

Throw a white blazer (collar, popped) over the combination of the following easy pieces and accent with a simple necklace or belt, and you are ready to go!

This modern white-on-white ensemble pairs an asymmetrical, slightly over-sized top with super slim white jeans and slip-on sandals. A subtle black, white and gold belt peeks through, when visible beyond the irregular hem of the shirt. Adding dimension to the outfit is a textured, rattan white clutch. Simple. Clean. Chic.

Image//1//2//3//4//5

Top Images//1//2//3//4

The Highs and Lows of the Palm Leaf Motif

My style leans more towards neutral modern classics than soft feminine motifs. But, I have to admit, I am quite taken by this season's floral trends. Specifically, the tropical leaf pattern. Even on more relaxed pieces, this vibrant design makes a statement.

This trend is prolific across all markets -- housewares, linens, travel pieces, fashion, in art, etc. And, can be purchased at any budget -- high or low.

Below are a few of my favorite ready-to-wear items:  

Low//Trousers//Shorts//Shirt//Bag//Bikini//Swimsuit//Shoes

High//Heels//Shirt//Trousers//Backpack//Shorts

What do you think? Are you "palm leaf" in love, or not?

Image//Song of Style

Faux Tats

I can't say that I've ever truly wanted a tattoo. In my life, there has never been an image with such purpose and meaning that I wanted so permanently represented on my body. That's not to say I don't respect the art and design of tattoos. In fact, I find many (more simple) tattoos quite beautiful.

Temporary tattoos (faux tats) are the perfect alternative to the more permanent branding option. And, they are no longer just for the kids (although there are some fantastic and modern designs for kids at present). Last weekend, I admired the metallic and fresh, temporary tats on a friend -- the super talented stylist, Tiffany Wendel. And, as I do, have been obsessing about them ever since.

This and That: Denim Vest

Having just spent a week in a half in nearly 100 degree weather, my fashion focus is all about sunny weather wares. Tanks. Shorts and minis. Peep toe sandals.

While packing for our vacation, I realized that my "summer clothing" surplus was quite limited to old tanks and shorts. A full shopping day in Phoenix helped in adding some key pieces for the warmer days of summer in Seattle. Denim is everywhere this Spring/Summer. Cut offs. Distressed jeans. Rompers. Sleeveless jackets. Among the items I purchased was a denim vest from Forever21 (for only $25!!!!).

Design It Like You Mean It

I like things slightly askew. Some say unusual. Not everything. But, if there is a way to do certain things in an unexpected way, I'll usually try it. Especially when it comes to the details in our home. Function does not have to negate form. And form, by no means has to be predictable.

Take my vanity for instance. There is not one piece of storage, whose purpose was intended for jewelry or makeup (except for the earrings stand -- found here). Every piece has a story, and was originally purchased to serve it's traditional function. 

Spring Uniform

Color is not a common theme in my everyday wardrobe. However, with more sunshine and brighter days of Spring, I'm considering making a change. And, perhaps this spring uniform will help with that:

Grey V-Neck Sweater//Black and White Printed Shirt//Light Denim Skinnies//Image//Gold Tote//Aviators//Fuschia D'Orsay Slip Ons//White Geometric Cuff

.....even if it is with just a POP of color!

When Fashion Meets Technology

I consider myself tech-savvy. But, by no means ahead of the tech curve. The evolution of technology is simply moving faster than I can personally keep up -- or want to keep up. But, that's not to say I don't appreciate ingenuity (in technology) when I see it. Or, marvel at how far technology has evolved. 

I love good design. But, combine extraordinary design with function -- and my enthusiasm becomes more intense. There is greater personal interest. To be honest, I have never looked much beyond the "function" of technology. It's design has never been relevant -- until now.

This and That: "Where Fashion Meets Art" Edition

Today's This and That happened quite organically.

I happened upon images from the Céline S/S 2014 Ready to Wear collection, and was struck by the designer's infusion of modern tribal patterns. FYI: New York Times' T Magazine profiled Phoebe Philo, Céline's creative director, in their Spring Fashion Issue. In awe! Among the collection's forty looks were several iterations of bold paint strokes, artistically printed in various colors of black, blue and yellow.

A Thank You Note

Spent an amazing afternoon with my husband in Downtown Seattle yesterday. The highlight of our date, (let's be honest -- my personal favorite does not necessarily reflect my husband's) was time spent looking around shopping at Seattle's newest retail hot spot, Zara, which opened on Friday.

I am a loyal Zara shopper. My fond admiration began more than 10 years ago, while traveling in Spain (where they are from). I have shopped Zara in Vancouver, B.C., New York, Chicago and various European cities, and am feeling the local love. Thank you Zara for bringing your high fashion-street style-eclectic-fashion forward designs, to the streets of Seattle!

Stay tuned for a more in-depth look into Seattle in City In:Look:Seattle, in the coming weeks.

Last Minute Valentine Outfit and Gifts

Still no date night outfit for Valentine's Day? Look no further than your local mall. 

Gap Black & White Striped Dress//Banana Republic Heart Sweater//Clinique Lipstick from Macy's//Marc Jacobs Heart Studs from Nordstrom//Forever 21 Red Ribbon Belt

Images//Candy Hearts//XOXO

...and if you're late on getting your honey a gift, well.....here you go. Also found at the mall. You can thank me later.

J. Crew Arrow Tie Clip//Moustache Grower's Guide from Art of Shaving//Godiva Truffles

City In:Look:Moscow

Today's post is a first in a series -- peeking inside the lifestyles, the hidden gems, the "who's who", of global cities of interest.

As the world celebrates the Olympics in Sochi, there is a heightened interest in Russia's culture; its social and political landscapes, lifestyles, trends, etc. In a country that struggles to strike a balance between modern and traditional, the capital of Moscow, has risen in the ranks as a strong and legitimate cultural player. A social evolution is taking place in this city of 11.5 million people (some estimate as high as 17 million), and as of 2011, home to the highest number of billionaires of any city in the world. In a city, where less than 30 years ago, there was no disparity between the upper and lower classes (because everyone was forced to stand in line for everyday staples, like food and water), the line between the "haves" and "have nots" is quite evident.

Currently Coveting

On a daily basis, I probably spend upwards of 4-5 hours online. It's a blessing and curse though. I love staying current on trends, news, my favorite blog reads. I scroll through the pages of home decor, lifestyle, fashion and other relevant sites -- all in the name of "research." Sometimes, however, it's difficult to separate "exploring for the blog" and "shopping for myself." A girl can dream, right?

Here's a peek at what I'm currently coveting:

Rag & Bone Leather Vest//Saint James Striped Tee//Up by Jawbone//Marc Jacobs Rock Cuff//Stainless Steel Straws (for the bar)//Clare Vivier Croco Messenger Bag//Kraft Paper Notepad//Heidi Merrick Vegan Shorts//Bright Brushstrokes Rug//Acne Oversized Sweater

Oh yeah......and I'll take some nice sunny, springtime weather too!

Layered to Perfection

It's probably cliché to say, but I have huge admiration for Jenna Lyons. The uber stylish creative director of J. Crew. Who disregards fashion rules. Pairs unlikely colors and patterns. Wears a man's shirt impeccably. A style icon, in her own right, whose fashion is approachable and yet, extremely dynamic. As if that weren't enough, she's single-handedly launched several trends, including a personal favorite -- unexpected layers. Throwing a trench over a denim jacket. A sharp white blouse under an embellished tee.

A Twist on the Classics

Originally, this post was slated for "timeless classics." Wardrobe staples that stand the test of time. A bright, white buttoned down (for me, collar up, please). A well tailored blazer. Neutral cigarette pants. A refined, black pencil skirt.

I would consider my personal style -- cultivated, with an unexpected "edge." I've procured a wardrobe of old and new. Blending the quintessential basic pieces and those with added character. And so for me, though my style is so heavily steeped in the classic sense (but with an added flair), I'd prefer to discuss the topic more broadly -- with a twist.

Spiked Cowhide Clutch

As promised, I wanted to share the finished product of the cowhide clutch I've been working on. I am so happy with the end result and look forward to pairing it with a fab outfit on Friday night!

If you are interested in receiving the DIY instructions, please sign up for the ..there is always grey Newsletter (in my sidebar). I shared the instructions in my latest newsletter.

Street-Chic Slip-On Sneakers

I appreciate balance in my life. I don't let problems consume me. I am not compulsive. All that said, when I spot something that I like (and ultimately, want), I become nearly obsessed with finding it. My focus shifts from all-encompassing, to extreme tunnel vision -- with one mission in mind.

The consuming effort generally results in success. It only took two months before finding the perfect wedge bootie. And, almost three months to locate the ideal leather jacket.

Valentines in Shades of Pink

I am convinced that people's (namely, women's) favorites colors are those that they wear well. Fuschia draws the color out of my, otherwise, pale complexion. I love fuschia! Yellows do the complete opposite. I don't own anything yellow. Red is not my favorite color either. Never has been. Feels very classic. Regal. I am neither of those. 

I believe that love comes in shades of pink -- as well as red. Commercially, Valentine's Day is celebrated with heavy doses of red -- and slight splashes of pink. I'm dreaming of a Valentine's Day, enhanced with the perfect pop of magenta. Highlighted with the palest of pinks and shades of near purples.

 Top Left//Narcisco Rodriguez, 2014//Pink Diamond//Shelves//Chanel//Moet//Ice Cream//Brett Cody Rogers Painting//Tea//Valentino Dress//Pink Peonies//Balloons//Fuschia Coat//Pink Moss//Lacey Coral

Want to see more? Follow me on Pinterest and my "Be My Valentine" board.

Look Hot at the Gym Without Even Trying

Forging forward on the quest for 2014 greatness! Organization. Healthy Soups. Interior Trends. Check. Check. Check. Next up....fashion. More specifically, fitness forward fashion!

I don't know about you, but getting back into my gym routine was challenging after the "excess" that was the holidays. I am working my way back to tighter fitting outfits. For now, it's loose pants and even looser tanks. When my "breakout" moment happens -- and it will happen soon -- it may include some of the following HOT gear!

 Safe-n-Sexy Sports Bra//Adidas Shoes//Grey Camo//Pants//Stella McCartney Crop Jacket//GapFit Breathe Tank//Soft Shell Moto Jacket//Garmin vivofit//Filtering Waterbottle//nuun Hydrating Tablets//Thick Yoga Mat//Absorbent Towel

I can be pretty inspired by bright color running shoes and adorbable camo exercise shirts. You?

Double Duty

Question. With holiday parties are aplenty, is it necessary to have a different outfit for each event? 

For the sake of this post, let's say "no!" I do personally empathize, however, with those who would argue "yes." I could be swayed, though, with this double-duty outfit. Thinking Christmas dinner and New Year's Eve????

Silk Green Camisole//Two-Tone, High Waisted Slacks//Crackled Metallic Clutch//

Snakeskin Studded Metallic Heels//Gold Multi-Chain Necklace//

Sequins Blazer//Cubes of Gold Cocktail Ring

Also//Kelly Wearstler Leather Dip-Dyed Designed Wreath

Thumbnail Image//Ann Street Studio

Backwards or Forwards (Necklaces)?

Trends don't always translate well. Take for instance.....heels with socks. Or wedge sneakers. Or even semi-sheer skirts. A statement is definitely being made with each of these trends, but what it is really saying?

In February, Jennifer Lawrence stepped out on Oscar's red carpet, wearing a traditional necklace, but rather quite untraditionally. The "backwards necklace" trend, having been seen on other public figures, (such as Cate Blanchett), commands attention with it's bold statement. You might argue that it's as questionable as wearing wedge sneakers, but I for one, would disagree.