Worn 3 Ways: Sutton Necklace

If you don’t know already, I joined Stella & Dot as an Independent Stylist back in the spring and it has been a great journey and learning experience! One of the biggest things I love about Stella & Dot’s jewelry and accessories is that many of their items are versatile – they can be worn multiple ways or can be taken apart or extended.

One of my favorite necklaces is the Sutton Necklace – which can be worn 5 different ways.  Also, the Sutton Necklace comes in silver, gold, or mixed metals.  I own the mixed metals version because I like jewelry that has mixed metals and I also feel it can be more versatile.  This necklace is definitely one to invest in.

For this post, I decided to showcase the versatility of the Sutton Necklace by displaying how to wear it with a work, weekend, and night outfit.

Outfit #1: Sutton Necklace w/Snake Print

For this outfit, I paired the Sutton necklace with a white silk sleeveless blouse and camel ankle pants.  I layered this classic neutral outfit with a classic navy boyfriend blazer. I finished the ensemble with an orange belt, menswear watch, and a pair of snake printed heels to add another texture.

Stylist Tip: Snake print, similar to leopard, also acts as neutral print.  Incorporate some snake print into your wardrobe.

Shirt: Loft (this summer) | Blazer: H&M | Pants: Old Navy | Shoes/Belt: Target | Watch: World Market

Outfit #2: Sutton Necklace - Casual Holiday

For this weekend outfit, I toned down the Sutton necklace by pairing it with a red long sleeve shirt and dark skinny jeans layered with a cream oversized cardigan.  I finished this casual look with a pair of metallic slip-on sneakers to complement the necklace.  This would be a great casual outfit for the upcoming holidays.

Stylist Tip: Yes, statement necklaces can be worn during the daytime.  Keep the rest of your outfit casual with comfortable textures, such as knits and denim.

Shirt: Old Navy | Sweater: Target | Jeans: American Eagle (old) | Shoes: Call It Spring

Outfit #3: Sutton Necklace w/Cold Shoulders

For the night outfit, I paired the Sutton necklace with my new Target black cold shoulder sweater and charcoal skinny jeans.  I was inspired by a tough rocker vibe, so opted for my some statement over the knee boots.  I finished this date night look with side swept hair and a dark red lip for some drama.

Stylist Tip: Black is always a go-to color for night.  To make black stand out and not look so subdued, shop for pieces that have unique details, such as cold shoulders, embroidery, embellishments, or even a different type of sleeve or neckline.

Sweater: Target (this season) | Pants: TJMaxx (Jessica Simpson | Boots: Charlotte Russe | Ring: Stella & Dot

Are you ready to invest in the Sutton Necklace yet?  Head to www.stelladot.com/kristingredys to purchase it for the holidays!

Bomber Jacket: 3 Ways to Wear It

Bomber jackets have been on the fashion scene for a few seasons now and it still has been a popular street style trend.  Bomber jackets, or flight jackets, were originally created for military pilots, but now are seen on the street and with the mass market consumer.  Bomber jackets come in a variety of fabrics and are a great alternative jacket for the fall season.  

As a salute to Veteran’s Day, I have created three different outfits utilizing this once military garment and showing how you can wear it for work, weekend, and at night.

Outfit #1: Bomber Jacket – Mixing Masculine and Feminine Details

For this outfit, I paired my tweed bomber jacket with a red tie blouse and classic black ankle pants.  I chose a tie blouse because I liked the juxtaposition of a feminine blouse balancing out a boxy masculine jacket.  I offset the texture in the bomber jacket by opting for black and white printed heels to add more character and dimension to this work outfit.  I kept the jewelry minimal with the Stella & Dot gold Winding Arrow Earrings and finished the ensemble with my favorite carry-all Stella & Dot Black Hudson Tote Bag.

Stylist Tip: Bomber Jackets are a great alternative to your classic blazers at the workplace because they are comfortable and trendy at the same time.

Jacket: Style Encore (Banana Republic) | Shirt: Francesca's | Pants: Express | Shoes: Target | Earrings/Purse: Stella & Dot

Outfit #2: Bomber Jacket – Athleisure + 90’s Inspired

For this weekend outfit, I was inspired by athleisure and elements of the 1990’s.  Since a bomber jacket can look sporty, I paired the jacket with a basic loose black tee and rolled up casual jeans.  I continued the athleisure vibe by opting for a pair of quilted black sneakers to complement the quilted sleeves on the bomber jacket.  I accessorized this casual ensemble with layering the Stella & Dot Hematite Gilded Path Double Wrap Bracelet and using it as a choker necklace along with the Arc Pendant in gold.  I finished the look with the Stella & Dot Relic Ring and a black beanie.

Stylist Tip: When searching bomber jacket, find one that has interesting details.  I chose this particular bomber jacket because I loved the textures – it contains both tweed on the front and back and quilted sleeves which I think makes it unique.  Plus, it was black and white which can be worn with multiple colors and I feel I can wear it years from now.

Jacket: Style Encore (Banana Republic) | Shirt: Old Navy| Jeans: American Eagle| Shoes: Steve Madden| Jewelry: Stella & Dot| Beanie: Charlotte Russe

Outfit #3: Bomber Jacket with Jewel Tones

For this last outfit, I wanted to create an outfit that can be transitioned from day to night.  I paired the bomber jacket with a violet jeweled tone long sleeve shirt along with a pair of charcoal hued skinny jeans.  I accessorized with the Stella & Dot Genevieve Tassel Necklace and a gunmetal cocktail ring.  I opted for a pair of black quilted sneakers for day, but for night, swap the sneakers for black ankle boots or booties. This outfit would be great option for a dinner and movie or casual drinks with friends.

Stylist Tip: Creating a nighttime look isn’t hard.  Add a statement necklace or other accessory and opt for a shoe that has a little height.

Jacket: Style Encore (Banana Republic)| Jeans: TJMaxx (Jessica Simpson)| Shirt: JCPenney | Necklace: Stella & Dot| Ring: World Market

Which outfit is your favorite?  Would you invest in a bomber jacket?

Color Combo: Orange + Black

Halloween is coming up and what better way to show your Halloween spirit than wearing the classic color combo we associate with this spooky holiday – Orange + Black.  I can understand why some people don’t wear this color combo – they don’t want to look like a pumpkin or a tiger, but I believe many colors can be worn together.  All you have to do is complement each color with the appropriate tint or shade of the hue.  For this post, I’ve created three outfits that can be worn for work, weekend, and at night utilizing the color combo – Orange + Black.

Outfit #1: Windowpane at Work
For this work outfit, I paired a pumpkin orange turtleneck with a black and white windowpane ankle pants.  I chose the windowpane print instead of a solid color pants to add interest and dimension to the outfit.  I accessorized this look with my Stella & Dot Nomad Statement Necklace along with the Nomad bracelets and black Icon-Convertible Watch to add texture to this classic ensemble.  I finished the look with classic black ballet flats and my hair pulled back into a fuss-free low ponytail.

Stylist Tip: A printed ankle pant is a great alternative to solid pants for the workplace.

Turtleneck: The Limited (sale) | Pants: Old Navy | Shoes: Target | Necklace/Bracelet/Watch: Stella & Dot

Outfit #2: Weekend – Rust + Marled Knit Sweater
For a weekend outfit, instead of pumpkin orange, I opted for a rust color.  I paired my rust colored long sleeve light weight sweater with a pair of black skinny jeans.  I layered the look with a black and white marled knit oversized cardigan sweater to add texture along with a mixed metal statement necklace and vintage cocktail rings for a dose of embellishment.  I finished the look with a casual black fringe cross-body bag and opted for a pair of cognac riding boots.

Stylist Tip: Rust is a must autumnal color to have in your closet.  It can be paired with navy, olive, mustard, brown, cream, charcoal, and of course black.

Sweater: Forever 21 (old) | Jeans: JCPenney | Sweater: Target | Purse: JCPenney | Boots: DSW | Necklace: Funky Zebra | Rings: Vintage (Grandma's)

Outfit #3: Night – Orange + Tweed + Black Accents
For a nighttime look, I paired an orange shift dress layered with my black and white tweed and quilted bomber jacket.  I accessorized with my Stella & Dot mixed metal Sutton Necklace, Nomad bracelets, and black City Slim Clutch.  I finished the ensemble with a pair of black opened toe booties and a side-swept hairstyle.  Once the weather starts getting chillier, opt for a pair of black tights.  This outfit would be perfect for drinks during happy hour or an elegant dinner date.

Stylist Tip: Bomber jackets are a great alternative to leather jackets, blazers, or cardigans.  They are great layering piece during the fall season.

Which outfit is your favorite?  How would you wear Orange & Black?

Pantone’s 2016 Color of the Year: Rose Quartz & Serenity – Fall Edition

October is here which means fall has arrived! October is also Breast Cancer Awareness Month, which symbolizes their awareness with the color pink.  Remember when Pantone announced their 2016 colors of the year, Rose Quartz & Serenity?  For this post, I have resorted back to show how to wear these two colors this fall and how you can show appreciation and wear pink for Breast Cancer Awareness through your outfits.

For the fall season, Rose Quartz has transformed more into a Dusty Rose or Dusty Cedar color while Serenity has converted into Pantone’s Airy Blue color.  These two colors are a part of the Pantone’s Fall 2016 Color Report and they pay homage to Pantone’s 2016 Colors of the Year.  According to Pantone’s 2016 Color Report, Dusty Cedar is “a fall and winter versions of the Pinks we’re used to seeing in the spring…it exudes warmth and welcome” and AiryBlue “evokes feelings of light and freedom”.

For this post, I have created three outfits utilizing fall versions of the colors Rose Quartz & Serenity.

Outfit #1: Boho with Fur

For this first outfit, I paired my chambray button-up with dusty rose pants and layered the look with a cream faux fur vest.  I accessorized the outfit with a jewel pendant, a western inspired hat, and opted for a pair of camel ankle boots.

Stylist Tip: If you haven’t already, invest in a chambray button-up. Chambray acts like a neutral – it can be paired with everything and worn all-year round!

Shirt: Old Navy | Vest: Von Maur | Pants: Old Navy | Necklace: The Limited | Shoes: Charlotte Russe | Hat: Forever 21 

Outfit #2: Dusty Rose w/ Dark Florals

For this outfit, I kept the dusty rose pants and swapped chambray for a dark floral blouse.  I layered the outfit with a black blazer and mixed prints together by opting for black and white printed heels to create a casual chic or business casual work outfit.  To complement the florals, I accessorized with a pair of pearl studs and bracelet.  I recently wore this outfit for an after work networking event and dinner with friends. 

Stylist Tip: Yes, florals can be worn all year! During the fall/winter season, opt for moody dark florals instead of your typical pastel spring florals.

Shirt: Kohl's (Lauren Conrad Collection) | Pants: Old Navy | Blazer: BCBG Max Azria | Shoes: Target | Purse: New York & Company | Bracelet: Gift

Outfit #3: Serenity w/Black

Since chambray is similar in color as Serenity and acts as neutral, I decided to create a layered casual fall look.  I paired my chambray button-up with black skinny jeans and a cream oversized cardigan sweater.  I added some texture to the look by adding Stella & Dot’s Genevieve Tassel Necklace and opting for a pair of leopard flats.

Stylist Tip: Add some pizazz to a classic go-to outfit with texture in your accessories or shoes.

Shirt: Old Navy | Sweater: Target | Jeans: JCPenney | Necklace: Stella & Dot | Shoes: DSW (sale)

Which outfit is your favorite? How would you wear pink for Breast Cancer Awareness Month?

Summer to Fall: White After Labor Day

Labor Day has come and gone meaning fall is just around the corner.  The old saying “You can’t wear white after Labor Day” is clearly out of date and white is embraced once September hits.  For this post, I’ll explain how to transition your white jeans you have been wearing this summer into the fall by only switching out shoes and accessories and adding a jacket.

Summer: White & Gold Accents

For this casual summer ensemble, I paired a gray loose muscle tank with my cropped white jeans. To splash up this simple outfit, I accessorized with my Stella & Dot Mirage Pendant along with the Havana Chandelier earrings, Gilded Path Double Wrap Bracelet, and Pave Chevron Ring.  I finished the look with my Stella & Dot Hudson Bag and tan and gold sandals.  I recently wore this outfit running errands on a weekend.

Tank: Old Navy (this spring) | Jeans: Kohl's (Lauren Conrad Collection - old) | Shoes: Payless | Necklace/Earrings/Ring/Bracelet/Tote: Stella & Dot

Fall: Black Leather Accents

To transition this outfit into fall, I swapped out white and gold accents with black and leather accents.  I switched out the pendant necklace for the Stella & Dot Riad Layering Necklace, which contains mixed metals, and switched out the gold ring for a silver Gemini Ring.  I layered the outfit with a faux leather jacket and opted for some quilted black slip on sneakers for a casual downtown look.

Jacket: Kohl's (Lauren Conrad Collection - old) | Shoes: Steve Madden (this spring) | Necklace/Ring: Stella & Dot

Tip: Once the weather starts cooling down, swap out white for an off-white or cream item during the winter months. 

How would you wear white after Labor Day? 

Color Combo: Riocentric - Green & Yellow

The opening ceremony of the 2016 Olympics in Rio de Janeiro starts this evening.  Rio de Janeiro is located in Brazil – home of the Amazon Rainforest.  When I think of Brazil and the Amazon Rainforest, I picture bold, saturated colors, tropical exotic animals, luscious plants and greenery, and the land of beautiful supermodels.  Brazil’s flag contains mostly the colors green and gold (yellow) with a blue starry celestial globe in the middle. For this blog post, I decided to display three different outfits utilizing the color combo of green and yellow to pay homage to the home country that is hosting this year’s Olympics.

Outfit #1 – Bold At Work

For this first outfit, I decided to pair my golden yellow sleeveless collared blouse with kelly green ankle dress pants.  I think a colored or printed ankle pant is a must to have because it’s a great option to wear instead of your go-to neutral pants.  I subdued the saturated hues with a leopard belt and cognac and gold accents.  I sported my cognac pointed heels, menswear watch, and my Stella & Dot Bungalow Earrings and gold Pave Chevron Ring. I finished this business casual look with a pair of tortoise shell clubmaster (or browline) sunglasses.

Tip: When choosing ankle pants, choose a color or print that can be paired with neutrals and other colors and that can be transitioned from one season to the next.  Also, go for ones that aren’t super tight – having a tad bit of leg room makes them feel more breathable and comfortable to wear. 

Shirt: Loft // Pants: Express// Belt/Shoes: Target// Earrings/Ring: Stella & Dot// Watch: World Market// Sunglasses: Wunderlust

Outfit #2 – Casual in Stripes

For this next look, I wanted to create a casual summer outfit.  I paired my yellow and green striped cardigan over a loose white tank and golden yellow tailored shorts.  I continued this clean and minimal look by opting for a pair of gold sandals and accessorizing with my Stella & Dot Bungalow Earrings, gold Rebel Pendant, gold Pave Chevron Ring, and gold coin bracelets.  I finished the ensemble with my green Ralph Lauren tote bag.

Tip: Invest in pair of tailored shorts because they can be dressed up with a button-up or embellished tank and dressy sandals, or dressed down with a tank and a cardigan.

Shirt: Old Navy (this summer)// Cardigan: ModCloth// Shorts: The Limited (sale)// Shoes: DSW (sale)// Purse: Ralph Lauren (gift)// Bracelets: Von Maur (gift)// Earrings/Necklace/Ring: Stella & Dot

Outfit #3 – Olive & Marigold in Fall

For this last outfit, I wanted to show how green and yellow can be transitioned into fall.  I paired my golden yellow and beige striped long sleeve with an olive utility jacket and medium washed skinny jeans.  I continued this classic preppy look with opting for a pair of cognac oxfords and adding a menswear watch.  I accessorized the ensemble with my Stella & Dot Bungalow Earrings, gold Rebel Pendant, and vintage cocktail ring.

Tip: Olive is a great substitute for the more saturated greens during the fall season because it acts like a neutral because it can be worn with many colors.

Shirt: Target// Jacket: Old Navy// Jeans: American Eagle (old)// Shoes: Dillard's (Steve Madden)// Belt: Old// Earrings/Necklace: Stella & Dot// Ring: Vintage (Grandma's)

How would you wear green & yellow?

St. Lucia Style Diary

Summertime is the season where you attend to festivals, have cookouts, and head out on vacation.  If you are headed to the beach or going somewhere tropical for vacation this summer, then take a cue from my St. Lucia Style Diary.  As you may know, I went to St. Lucia for my honeymoon.  My husband Mike and I went in the off-season during the end of February and early March, but the weather was still hot and beautiful! 

We stayed at the Sandals – Regency La Toc resort.  This resort was so much fun and it was all-inclusive so there was a variety of activities to do and many restaurants to dine at.  Of course during the day, we spent most of our time at the beach, pool, and even went on some excursions.  For a glimpse into our trip, please head to our St. Lucia album on Facebook here.  Since most of our daytime was spent in our swimsuits, it was nice to get dressed up casually or formally in the evening. 

For this post, I have decided to share my outfits that I wore in the evening during my week in St. Lucia and hopefully it can provide inspiration for you on your next beach or tropical vacation!

Sunday – 1^st Full Day/2^nd Night

Mediterranean Blue + White

Sunday, which was February 28^th, was my birthday so it was amazing to celebrate my birthday on a tropical island!  During the day, we spent most of the time lounging on the beach, but at night we decided to check out Neptune’s, a casual Mediterranean-inspired restaurant.  It had an open atmosphere and located right along the beach.  For this casual evening, I decided to wear a Mediterranean blue and white printed loose tie-wasted blouse paired with white skinny jeans and simple white sandals. If you want to dress up this outfit even more, then opt for a pair of wedges instead of sandals.  I finished this look with my ever-so versatile Stella & Dot Arc Pendant Necklace, Gilded Path Double Wrap bracelet, a cocktail ring, and my neon clutch.

Tip #1: White jeans are a great option to have in warm locales – they exert more ease and summertime vibes than your traditional blues. 

Tip #2: If you are one to get chilly at night, even in warm weather, instead of bringing along a cardigan sweater, opt for a breezy blouse that has sleeves to keep you warm if there is a breeze.

Shirt: JCPenney// Jeans: Kohl's (Lauren Conrad Collection - old)// Shoes: Target// Necklace/Bracelet: Stella & Dot// Purse: Francesca's

Monday – 2^nd Full Day/3^rd Night

Caribbean Blues

On Monday, we played golf at the resort golf course and then we checked out the pool and the swim-up bar. We also started participating in activities at the resort, including sand volleyball where we met some great people!  At night, Mike and I checked out the Japanese restaurant, Kimonos, where we decided to dress up a little more for this occasion.  For this semi-formal evening, I wore a turquoise and blue water-colored printed maxi dress with white sandals. I decided to bring this dress on the trip because I wanted a dress that resembled the Caribbean waters.  I accessorized with silver leaf earrings, bracelet, and cocktail ring, and my neon clutch.

Tip #1: Maxi dresses and sundresses are perfect for a tropical vacation because they can be dressed up or down.

Tip #2: Heading to a tropical locale? Play up your makeup with a fun bold color, rather it be a lip, nail color, or an eyeliner.  For Sunday and Monday’s outfits, I wore navy eyeliner to give my look more pizazz.

Dress: Kohl's// Shoes: Target// Purse: Francesca's// Earrings/Ring: Old Navy// Bracelet: Express

Tuesday – 3^rd Full Day/4^th Night

Casual Boho

On Tuesday during the day, Mike and I took a private boat tour to the Pitons, which is St. Lucia’s iconic landmark.  There we went snorkeling, waded in a mineral spring, took a mud bath near the volcano, and ate at a local restaurant.  Since we had a busy day, we kept the evening low-key and casual.  We decided to eat at Cricketer’s Pub, which served British traditional fare, such as fish n chips. They were delicious!

For this casual evening, I decided to pair my skinny white jeans with a breezy bohemian printed blouse.  For this trip, I wanted to bring an ethnic inspired item because St. Lucia has many cultures.  Their local cuisine is a combination of French, British, East Indian, and Caribbean dishes. I accessorized the outfit with a turquoise stone pendant and both black and brown accents ranging from my cognac global watch, brown braided belt, to black gladiator sandals.  I styled my hair bohemian inspired with a beachy scrunch.

Tip: When you’re on vacation, try a new hairstyle for a day, whether it is pulled back into a ponytail, a beachy wave, or romantic curls.

Shirt: Resale Shop// Jeans: Kohl's (Lauren Conrad Collection - old)// Necklace/Watch: World Market// Shoes: Payless ShoeSource

Wednesday – 4^th Day/5^th Night

Feminine in Malachite Green

On Wednesday, we went zip-lining in the tropical rainforest and then we relaxed with a massage by the beach in the afternoon.  At night, we had a reservation at Armando’s, which served Italian cuisine.  The view from Armando’s during the evening was spectacular because the restaurant is set atop of Sunset Bluff, where you can view the sunset.

For this occasion, I decided to wear a malachite (greenish aqua) colored dress with a yellow-gold colored floral statement necklace.  I accessorized with a white gold bracelet and leaf cocktail ring.  Since I wanted to keep the look semi-casual, I opted for a pair of white gold sparkly metallic sandals. I finished the look off with my neon clutch.

Tip: When shopping for a summer dress, try to find one that is versatile and can be worn casually with sandals or dressed up with a pair of heels.

Dress: Kohl's (Elle Brand - last year)// Necklace: Dry Goods// Bracelet: BCBG Max Azria// Ring: Younkers// Shoes: DSW// Clutch: Francesca's 

Thursday – 5^th Day/6^th Night

Formal in White

On Thursday morning, instead of heading to breakfast at the Pavilion, we opted to get room service and have breakfast in bed.  Then it was a day of lounging by the pool and playing pool games.  At night, we dined at La Toc, the resort’s French restaurant.  Since La Toc was a fine-dining restaurant, we dressed more formally.

For this outfit, I was finally able to where my white one-shoulder matte jersey gown.  I bought this dress a few years ago when I used to work at BCBG Max Azria, and I have always planned on wearing it on my honeymoon.  This dress is so comfortable, but elegant at the same time because it’s made out a matte jersey so the material is very breathable.  My inspiration for this outfit was a Greek goddess, so I paired the dress with gold ornate statement earrings, a gold cuff and cocktail ring, and gold strappy heels.  I finished the look with side-swept soft curls, a red-orange lip, and my neon clutch.

Tip: It’s always eminent to have one gown or cocktail dress for more formal occasions.

Dress: BCBG Max Azria// Earrings: Von Maur (old)// Ring: Younkers// Bracelet: Old// Shoes: DSW (last summer)// Clutch: Francesca's

Friday – 6^th Day/7^th Night
Tropical Romper
Friday was our last day of relaxing and having fun in the sun.  At night, there was a street party at our resort that served St. Lucian local cuisine, and then afterwards we sang karaoke!  Since there was music and entertainment during the street party, I wanted to wear something casual and fun.  I opted for my tropical inspired print romper.  I love this romper because of the colors, but also because it actually fits me.  I have a hard time finding rompers that fit proportionately on my body because I’m tall and have a long torso and legs.  I accessorized the romper with my Stella & Dot Arc Pendant Necklace and Gilded Path Double Wrap Bracelet.  I finished this casual and fun look with my black gladiator sandals.

Tip: Rompers and jumpsuits are a great during the summertime.  There are a variety of different styles at many retailers. Find one that fits your body and style!

Romper: JCPenney (last year)// Necklace/Bracelet: Stella & Dot// Shoes: Payless ShoeSource

What would you wear on a beach or tropical vacation?