July 31, 2014

Black on Black

I love a great all black outfit. This flowy look is a summer go-to for me.
The tank I'm wearing is super soft and comfortable and looks so effortless paired with these black jersey knit pants.
The necklace is something I scored at the Dillard's end of season sale and I absolutely love it! Just throw this on with a simple outfit and it immediately amps it up with style.




The back of this tank is fairly open, so with all the skin up top showing, I knew I needed to keep my bottom half covered.


I love the overall look of this outfit as well as the comfort level! I could wear this all day, everyday, but then all my other clothes would get jealous, wouldn't they? Can't have that!


Top: Vintage Havana (TJ Maxx) *similar
Pants & Sandals: Mossimo Supply Co. (Target) *similar & similar
Necklace: Dillard's *similar

Black, black, and more black,
Brittani
<3

PS-All this black makes me anxious for cooler weather (maybe not TOO anxious; summer is my favorite after all)...I tend to wear all black at least 2-3 times a week during fall and winter.

July 30, 2014

JUMPsuit for JOY

Here's another fun summer wedding option. This navy jumpsuit has one of my favorite necklines..sweetheart! Add the gorgeous lace detail above that and this more formal jumpsuit option is perfect for a wedding.


What's more classic than a strand of pearls around a lady's neck? Nothing.
This timeless accessory adds a touch of sophistication to this ensemble.


The keyhole back on the jumpsuit amps up the look with a little sass while still being appropriate for this formal occasion.


Lastly, you can't go wrong with a pair of patent nude pumps. They pair well with just about anything and the hint of shine makes them a little more fancy shmancy without going overboard.


Jumpsuit: Saprano (TJ Maxx) *similar
Neclace: Claire's *similar
Pumps: Mossimo Supply Co. (Target) *similar

Fruit punch, veggie trays, and finger sandwiches,
Brittani
<3

PS-If anyone can teach me how to master the art of walking in heels, please do. I'm so clumsy!
Also, see my Weekend Wedding post for my inspiration!


July 29, 2014

Fashion How-to: Create a Work "Uniform"

I was recently asked to do an office presentation about "dressing for success". This request inspired this very blog post! I figured if the people in my office need to know about it, many of you would, too!

Although you may not be required to wear a uniform to the office, it may be easier to create a faux work "uniform" to cut down on getting ready time each day.


To create this mock uniform there are a few basics that I recommend having in your work wardrobe.


Slacks or trousers are a huge office staple. They come in a variety of colors and cuts to flatter anyone's figure. My personal favorite: wide-leg. I just feel that there's nothing more chic than a pair of wide-leg trousers and leg-lengthening heels.
The pencil skirt, another go-to office piece, is an appropriate alternative to pants.
Mix and match crisp, button-down tops and fun printed blouses with your pants or skirts to change up your look each day.
In most offices, it's best to wear closed toe and heel shoes (i.e. don't wear those Old Navy flip fops to work; not even on casual Friday).
Keep several fun accessories on hand to pair with each outfit you create. This way, you can wear pieces over and over again, but still change the entire look by adding different accessories!
Be sure to keep a cardigan or jacket (in a color that goes with pretty much everything) with you in case you get cold throughout the day.

Work Wardrobe suggestions & links:


I hope this basic explanation helps you create the work wardrobe of your dreams! I will be sure to include work-ready outfits in my blog posts regularly!

Grapefruit, watermelon, and banana peppers,
Brittani
<3

PS-Use the promo code, ONSAVENOW, at oldnavy.gap.com to save 25% on regular priced items and 15% on sale items! There are lots of work-appropriate things at Old Navy!



July 28, 2014

Birthday Extravaganza


Hey, guess what! It's my birthday! I had so much fun with this post!


This colorful jumpsuit just screams "BIRTHDAY GIRL"!
And when it's not my birthday, it screams, "cute, fun, & bubbly!
I love it either way!


The wrap top on this jumpsuit is very flattering on any body type. There's a reason Diane von Furstenberg's famous wrap dress was a genius move in the fashion world. Pieces that wrap the body and gather at the waist create an amazing hourglass shape.


 Also, the nipped-in waist is in just the right place to create the illusion of sky-high legs.
The leg shape on the pants portion of this jumpsuit fall from the hip, straight down; which is the most flattering fit for any lady.


& here are some birthday bubbles...


 This chevron ring ties in with the geometric print of the jumpsuit and is a subtle jewelry addition to the outfit. I kept it simple with just this ring and a pair of gold stud earrings.
The print really speaks for itself here and doesn't need many accessories to amp it up.


I added platform wedges to give even more length to the legs. The gold buckles on these bad boys deliver just a touch of shine to my look, but remain within the goal to keep accessories simple.


Thanks for joining me on my birthday! I'm so happy I got to do this special shoot!


Jumpsuit: TOBI *similar
Ring: Altar'd State *similar
Wedges: Qupid (Apricot Lane Boutique) *similar

Birthday wishes, ribbons, and bows,
Brittani
<3

PS-I'm a Netflix nerd & I'm running out of TV shows to watch! Let me know what your favorites are so I can check them out!

July 27, 2014

A Skort Story

If you would have asked me, 15 years ago, how I felt about a skort, I probably would have put my pink popsicle down at recess and let you know just how much I despised them.
I hated them when I was younger and I never would have counted on them making a comeback, but guess what! Theyyy're baaack!


One more surprise: I'm totally digging them now! I don't know what made me change my mind. Maybe it's the cuteness of a skirt compared with the security of a pair of shorts, maybe it's the business in the front, party in the back concept..no wait, that's a mullet. My bad.
Anyway, I am super happy with the scuba skort I'm wearing here. I love the wrap front design and the comfortable material.


The top I paired it with is just beyond gorg, too! It's the most beautiful shade of hot pink! The off-the-shoulder element along with the crochet trim just ups the cool factor on this outfit.


I accessorized with silver and pearls to tie in a little classic vibe. I love the large chain-like link detail on the watch. The pearl bracelet holds a special place in my heart, as it was a gift from my future sister-in-law. The small silver beads mixed in gives the classic pearl piece a pretty modern touch. The silver heart on this dainty chain necklace is also a gift that I'll forever adore from my wonderful fiancé. Lastly, the white sandals with silver detail bring the whole look together.


Top: Sage (Apricot Lane Boutique) *similar
Skort: Boohoo *similar
Neckalce: Gift *similar
Watch: The Limited *similar
Bracelet: Gift *similar
Sandals: Forever21 *similar

Class, sass, and pizazz,
Brittani
<3

PS-How cute is Jack's new dog tag?! Get one for your precious pooch (only $11 with shipping in the US) from my friend's Etsy store, Bee Creative!



July 26, 2014

Easy Breezy

 It's kind of a tradition for me to treat myself to a mini shopping spree every year for my birthday. Who am I kidding, it's not really just a birthday thing, but at least it's a justifiable reason around this time. I decided to wear this cute little outfit for my not-so-annual shopping trip today.


I absolutely love wearing this beautiful pair of shorts. The appliqué detail is just stunning. I also can't help but adore the pom-pom trim. It adds such a whimsical feel to the look. The white embellishments really pop against the tan fabric.


The pair of shorts is definitely the star of the show today, so I paired them with a simple navy blue top and simple gold sandals.


I layered these necklaces to add a little interest to the top half of the outfit. They're years old and quite tarnished, but I really don't mind that. I think it gives the necklaces more character.
Also, I do have the goosebumps in this photo, thank you very much.

Top: Forever21 *similar
Shorts: the clothing company (Apricot Lane Boutique) *similar
Necklaces: Forever21 *similar & similar
Sandals: Forever21 *similar


Birthday cake, helium balloons, and sparkly wrapping paper,
Brittani
<3

PS-Take $10 off all jeans at American Eagle right now! No coupon or code needed! You can find my favorite jeans ever at AE! They are so comfy & stretchy! I love tight, yet stretchy skinny jeans!


July 25, 2014

Quick Change Romper

What's easier to throw on in a hurry than a romper? Slip into this go-to piece, add an oversized elastic belt, and a pair of flats, and head out the door. It really is the ideal garment for a quick costume change.


 This olive green, one-shouldered romper is dangerous territory when it comes to figure-flattering options. The excess fabric can be overwhelming on the body and can create a paper bag resemblence.
For this reason, it's important to cinch the waist with a belt.


 This one is great for doing just that. The wide elastic belt is perfect for creating that hourglass shape over an, otherwise, overwhelming romper. I love the neutral color of this, as well as the gold detailing.


I slid this feather bangle around my arm as an easy accessory. I love how dainty it is in comparison to the thick elastic belt.
 Lastly, these ballet flats are the perfect color to go along with the belt.


Romper: BETTER B. (Modish Posh Boutique) *similar
Belt: Body Central *similar
Bracelet: Francesca's Collections *similar
Flats: Mossimo Supply Co. (Target) *similar

Next time you're rushing out the door, remember that this four-piece ensemble will look both effortless and put-together even under a restricted time-frame.

Flash sales, shopping bags, and clothing racks,
Brittani
<3

PS-Do any of you watch Big Brother on CBS? I'm obsessed! #teamnicole

July 24, 2014

Work Ready

I'm fortunate to work in an office where a uniform is not required, and also, there isn't too much of a strict dress code. I am able to wear nearly whatever I want, within reason. Although, in Brittani's Utopian World, I'd be wearing anything from a princess cut, tulle skirted ball gown (tiara and precious stone jewelry to boot) to shorts and a tank top with loads of bracelets and/or necklaces to add style. Alas, I do work in an office environment, where modesty is key.


Today, I'm wearing this chartreuse hued number with a modest hemline that barely reveals my knees.
To keep this length flattering and give the appearance of longer gams, I graced my feet with these adorable taupe-colored wedges. When wearing a shift dress such as this one, without a defined waist, it's important to lengthen the legs with a heeled shoe.


Because both, the dress and the shoes, are quite simple and have no embellishments, I added this royal blue statement necklace to add character to an otherwise plain Jane ensemble.


Dress: Boohoo *similar
Necklace: Apricot Lane Boutique *similar
Shoes: Qupid (Frock Candy Boutique) *similar

That's really all there is to it. Not an impossible job to tackle: making a statement in office-appropriate clothing, is it? Nope, not at all. Ok, I'll stop answering my own questions. Have a wonderful day, readers!

Vanilla frosting, pink cheeks, and happy hearts,
Brittani
<3

PS-I'll be doing a special post on creating an office-appropriate "work uniform" soon! Stay tuned!


July 23, 2014

Workout Motivation

 One thing I despise doing is working out. I just don't enjoy it. I'm on a continuous mission to find some form of physical activity that I actually like doing. Recently I've taken to bike riding, and I am actually starting to like it. I received a bike as an early birthday present from my dad (as per my request). And I've used it about 3 times since I got it a week and a half ago. 3 times is progress for me, people!
Anyway, one of my biggest fitness motivations is cute workout clothes! This is an example of something I'd wear to get my fitness on. 


Aren't these colors fun?!
The orange top is a lot more fitted than I'm used to, but it's actually pretty flattering.
This pair of hot pink shorts provide another huge burst of color, and pairs well with the orange top, as well as the blue sports bra. This is the most comfortable sports bra I've ever owned, by the way.


These tie dyed socks are just another fun element to this fitness ensemble. They come up over my knees and are probably supposed to be worn while playing soccer, but I love them for any activity.


These are the only pair of tennis shoes I own, so for now, I wear them with everything I workout in. Ha! Ha!
They are the lightest tennis shoes I've ever owned and are so nice and comfy to wear while sweating through a [short, because I'm a beginner] workout routine.

Top: Nike Pro (Dick's Sporting Goods) *similar
Sports Bra: TJ Maxx *similar
Shorts: merika tek (TJ Maxx) *similar
Socks: Academy Sports and Outdoors *similar
Shoes: Nike *similar

I hope this inspires you to get some exercise, too!

Mangos, butterflies, and coffee mugs,
Brittani
<3

PS-Here's a link to the AB routine I try to do at least three times a week. The ten minute routine flies by because of the variations in exercises throughout the video.


July 22, 2014

Weekend Wedding

 One of the most exciting things about spring/summertime, and let me be clear, there are so many (summer is my favorite time of year), is that it's the most popular time of the year for weddings! I got to attend one last weekend and I was so excited to rock this maxi for it!


Fashion Myth: Wearing black to a wedding is UNACCEPTABLE.
"Myth" being the operative word here.
It is ABSOLUTELY acceptable to wear black to a wedding, in my opinion. Now, white, well that's a whole other story (unless you're the bride).
I actually fit in with the wedding party this time since there was a black and white color scheme. Oops!


The cutouts can be a little dangerous on this one, but since I am lacking in the chest department, it works out fine. I love the simplicity of the dress with the cutouts being the main focal point.


WARNING POSSIBLE TMI TO FOLLOW! PROCEED WITH CAUTION!
The tricky part about wearing this ensemble was the fact that I have this phobia of going "braless".
My solution to this little dilemma: bandaids.
& I'll just leave it at that.
Moving on!



This gold triple chain link bracelet started out with black ribbon running through it. That had to go.
Now that it's ribbon-free, it looks way more glamorous and chic.


These leaf-like earrings peaked through my curled hair to reveal just a little more shine.
You can't see my feet in the photos, but I have on simple gold sandals and I love that they hide beneath the flowy dress perfectly.

Dress: TOBI *similar
Bracelet: The Limited *similar
Earrings: Altar'd State *similar
Sandals: Forever21 *similar

The wedding was gorgeous, by the way. Very similar to how I imagine mine to be one day. Fairly small, 176 people to be exact. And at a small, rustic venue with tea light candles lining the wooden walls. So beautiful. And don't get me started on the bride in her AMAZING wedding gown! Ahhh! Loved it!

Until next time, friends.

Pearls, tanlines, and wedding bells,
Brittani
<3

PS-My hot date looked mighty fresh, too. His rugged good looks will be left to your imagination until further notice. (;

July 21, 2014

Can't Hate a Kimono

Hey, from my apartment patio! Jack and I are both loving the colors in this oversized kimono! It goes great with my patio furniture, hence the setting for this photo sesh. 


 This kimono is one of my new favorite finds! I love how comfy it is, yet still adorable and fashion forward.


Because the colors and patterns are so busy, I'm keeping the rest of my outfit simple with a plain white cami and these ombre, high-wasted shorts. 


The brushed silver cuff and ring are perfect pieces to compliment the silver accent on my sandals.
It's a huge coincidence that my nails match my top, by the way.


Kimono: Honey Punch (Apricot Lane Boutique) *similar
Cami: Apricot Lane Boutique *similar
Shorts: Sneak Peek Los Angeles (Apricot Lane Boutique) *similar
Bracelet & Ring: Altar'd State *similar & similar
Sandals: Forever 21 *similar

Adios, from me & Jack!

SweetTarts, Sour Patch Kids, and Gummi Bears,
Brittani
<3

PS-Enter the code "YOURGIFT" at checkout on Sephora.com to receive a FREE Deluxe Mystery Gift with your purchase of $25 or more..What could it be?!