Chambray Summer

Oh, how I love Chambray in the summer... and no I'm not talking white wine. Chambray, not to be confused with Chardonnay, is that light denim material you've seen everywhere lately. Although I like where your head is at!

Chambray is the fabric of the moment, but what is it really? It looks like denim but feels like linen. Well, although it does share some common elements with denim, it is actually categorized as it's own unique material.

Chambray is a plain single weave construction, giving it a softer feel than traditional denim. Subsequently, after washing this material, you will need to iron it to bring back it's soft texture. 

I am loving this tulip backed tank top in this alluring fabric, coupled with a traditional pair of slightly distressed white denim jeans. I styled this look with a pair of nude strappy summer heels and my brand new Katey Brunini bracelets. 

Katey Brunini handcrafts all of her fine jewelry by hand to create the most beautiful natural pieces you have ever seen! For my birthday this month, Dallas added a pearl bangle to my already impressive stack.  

These bracelets have always represented milestones in our relationship. One from our first wedding anniversary and one from Cashton's birth date with his birthstone at the center. 

This one also has great meaning in my life. Dallas gifted me this bangle as a representation of Woofer, our late fur baby who we said goodbye to last month. Of course, I cried when he put it on my wrist and told me the meaning. Now, I proudly wear it every day along with my other reminders of a blessed life I am lucky to have.  

I wore these gorgeous pieces of arm candy with my Daniel Wellington watch to complete this look and you can shop the details below.     

  

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All Or Nothing

 

It's been hard to find time to blog lately. 

I seem to have a ton going on and nothing much to say. Truth be told ... I'm just worn out. My day begins early and ends late. Putting in a full 8 hour day before noon on minimal sleep does take it out of you. Then add a new routine with my husband's new job, appearances for work, a sick dog, a baby and a blog. Whoa.

I know it might sound like I am complaining because I am stressed, but I am just trying to remind myself that this along with all other worry is only temporary.

Dallas got a GREAT new job as a regional RVP with a medical company and it is requiring him to be on the road most of the week. Which would typically be a cake walk for us (and a nice break for me) but our nanny, who we love dearly, has taken a leave of absence for a family emergency. For the last two and a half weeks we have been struggling to find childcare while we are both at work, adding an extra layer to our already nutty lives. With some help from our mothers, Cash has been well taken care of but it has definitely taken a toll on all of us. 

Luckily, I have found an interim replacement nanny who will start at the end of this week. Fingers crossed all works out and our dear Sandra is back to work soon. 

In the meantime, I have been searching for answers to Cashton's speech delay. Today he saw a speech therapist for a consultation and it was the toughest hour of my life but I have to trust the process. Children are typically tested in private, away from Mom and Dad so that they are not distracted and Cash was having none of it!

During his one hour consultation, I sat in an empty waiting room listening to my baby cry out to me for 25 mins before he even entertained the idea of playing with a stranger. At nineteen months children are dealing with some separation anxiety so I know that behavior is normal but it doesn't ease the hurt in your heart when you hear those cries. 

All in all, they were able to complete the evaluation and we should have a course of action for his speech therapy in about a week.

While I wait, I thought I would get back on the wagon and share with you this innovative look for your #bossbabe Monday. The Blazer dress is a collaboration by one of my favorite influencers (Olivia Culpo) and Revolve. The dress runs small so size up. I paired this chic look with a pair of white mules from Nordstrom and Kendra Scott's brand new adjustable earrings. 

Enjoy Boss Babes! 

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Warm Weather. Finally!

Naturally, it is gorgeous in Charlotte this weekend and I chalk that up to the fact that I left for Florida yesterday. You're welcome Queen City. 

Dallas, Cash and I are on spring break this coming week, so we hopped a flight to see my Mom in Fort Lauderdale. 

This spring look, however, is perfect for Florida or North Carolina on a weekend like this. I know I'm not alone when I say that I am excited to pull out tee shirts, maxi skirts, and sandals... FINALLY!   

Although this blush sequin maxi is sold out, I found a couple sizes left on eBay. It is originally from Anthropologie so be sure to size down as I think most of their stuff runs a little big. 

This "After Me" french inspired tee is also from Anthro and has limited stock but it is on SALE. This tee does run TTS.

Waking up to the warm breeze of the ocean and the sound of the waves is exactly what I need to recharge my batteries. I can not wait to spend this week in the sun.  

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Apres Moi

Apres Moi! After Me. That's what my tee shirt says in French. I think this shirt was appropriate since the Grammy awards were last night and this award season has been dedicated to female empowerment! The 60th annual Grammy Awards put the "Me Too" movement back in the spotlight as artist carried a single white rose in solidarity for the #TimesUp initiative down the red carpet in New York City Sunday night. 

Last night we saw some of the biggest names in fashion and music use their voices for more than just singing. It really is a beautiful story we are writing. We are creating a movement and a moment in time that will not easily be forgotten. An environment that makes people feel safe to speak up and seek help if they have been sexually assaulted. In fact, the #TimesUp initiative is raising money to help victims who would not normally have the money to stand up and fight for themselves.  

Of course, the white roses aren't the only thing we're talking about this morning. After any good award show, we all want to know "who wore what?" on the red carpet! Thus, I have your red carpet recap covered with my Style Squad Podcast! This week I am joined by fellow blogger babe Michelle from Mrs. Simply Lovely, and she was just that! 

While you are kicking back listening to this weeks fashion recap feel free to do some retail therapy of your own. My whole look is available below! 

I am LOVING this tweed skirt and Steve Madden sandals for spring! Pair them with a fun tee shirt and a denim jacket and you are ready for casual Friday at work or a fun night out with the girls! For accessories, I threw on my favorite Chanel pin (but any brooch will do) and some fun hot pink earrings that are sure to jazz up any outfit! These Kendra Scott earrings are my favorite and they are so easy to wear! 

Happy Monday Boss Babes! 

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A Meaningful Monday

Normally Mondays got us like, ugh!

Today, however, isn't just any other Monday. It's MLK Day. A day for us to remember that all things are possible and it's a reminder for us to be open and accepting of each other.

Hopefully, you had today off. If not here is a great casual look that is sure to brighten your day! I love this cold shoulder lace up sweater from Express. It comes in the prettiest shades that will take you right into spring and it's ON SALE!

With a lace-up sweater like this, you can keep the accessories light. No need to go overboard. A simple Kendra Scott pendant necklace like this is subtle and keeps the look light and airy.

I've paired this look with my favorite Just Black jeans and Chinese Laundry booties. I know you guys see these booties on me all the time, but they legit go with everything. If you could only have one neutral bootie in your closet, this is it!

Another great piece I can't get enough of is a neutral clutch. I always say to invest in bags and shoes because good ones will last forever.

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Puffers and Pearls

I can't believe it's Friday already! I haven't even packed yet and I leave TODAY for Connecticut to choreograph for Miss Connecticut USA!  

It's legit 3:45am and I am tiptoeing around my house writing this blog and packing! 

Fun fact that you might not know about me, my first major in college was theatre! I loved everything about the theatre from performing to production, so with my pageant history and my background in dance with the NBA & NFL, I found myself a nice little side hustle with Five Crown Productions as there show director and choreographer.  

Anyway, since it is 12 degrees outside currently and it is only making it up into the 30's today for much of the country, I wanted to share a great casual look with you for your weekend or your upcoming travel. I wore this cozy puffer vest on our trip to Asheville last week and it was a hit. 

I've linked the pieces you can get online below, however, there is a new version of this top out now which you can get here, and the adorable pearl clutch is available in-store only at Banana Republic. 

I'll have more up this weekend about our trip to Asheville and our tour of the Sierra Nevada Brewing Company which was a blast! 

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From New Years Eve To The Opera

I love a classy outfit that can also be sexy, and this look hit the nail on the head! It's perfect for New Years Eve, but it would also be gorgeous for a night out to the theatre or opera! 

This velvet pencil skirt is from Lord & Taylor and although it is beautiful it does run a little big, so be sure to go down a size. The color is so rich and it will be easy to mix and match throughout your wardrobe for the rest of the season. 

A good bodysuit is a staple in any closet! It looks great with jeans or a skirt, making it one of the most versatile items you will own. Thus, if you don't already have one pick one up immediately! 

Now can we talk about this cape blazer? It is one of my favorite pieces that I own! It took me forever to find one that I love but it legit goes with everything from business to cocktail, and it was only $30!

I paired this NYE look with some simple Kendra Scott stud earrings, a House Of Harlow statement necklace and these gold Jimmy Choo "Lance Wave" strappy sandals that will complete any look year round! 

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