inspired-style: mixing prints...

when it comes to mixing prints, my daughter is a pro. from a very young age i told her my #1 rule: just make sure to coordinate your colors. she's very good with it now. she loves having fun with her clothes {exhibit a, above}, but manages to stay coordinated, never thinking twice about taking fashion risks! :)

i myself am a huge fan of mixing prints, but to do it right {and in a more, sophisticated, grown-up way}, you should keep these guidelines in mind:

**be sure that at least one color repeats throughout your outfit.
**loose prints work well with structured prints {think swirls with stripes}.
**blending small designs {think plaid} with larger-scale ones {bold flowers} are fun and look great year-round.

for more ideas regarding this inspired trend, check out this article on RealSimple.com

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Summer Wardrobe Pieces from Express to Wear into Fall

when it comes to clothing, making items work year-round makes them so much more affordable (essentially, the more times you wear something, the more it pays for itself). Express has some great items that will not only work for summer, but, when paired with other items, will keep you looking fabulous well into the fall season.




this figure-flattering Draped Mesh Mini is perfect for summer when paired with a simple tank and strappy or gladiator-style sandals. for fall, wear it with a crisp blouse and fun booties.




who doesn't need an all-occasion dress? this Belted Sleeveless Dress can be dressed up for a night out, summer party or wedding. when the chill of fall comes, add tights and a fitted blazer or cardigan for a classic look that is office-friendly.




your favorite pair of "skinnies" would look perfect with something like this Semi-Sheer Lace Tank (a great date-night look!). when the chilly fall breezes begin to blow, throw on a leather jacket to give your look an edgy, rocker feel.


hope these picks inspire you to make your own summer essentials autumn-appropriate! find the items featured at your local Express boutique and online at express.com

xo

Staying Warm with Cold Weather Accessories

southern california isn't know for super cold weather, but every so often, we experience cold weather that feels downright frosty (all of you who live where it snows, please understand, i'm cold when it's 50 degrees out).

don't get me wrong, i'm definitely not complaining. it was over a hundred degrees only a couple of months ago (i don't miss that at all)! i'm loving the fact that i can wear my coats everyday and my scarves, hats and gloves are getting used. not only to keep me warm, but as a way to pull my look together.

need some new cold-weather accessories? here are just a few (ok, more than a few, LOL) of my picks you might like...


xo