No need for a missing person's report...

To all of my readers, I know that I have been absent as of late and I would like to apologize for my time away. but I am back and sufficiently inspired! I've had a lot going on but it appears to be settling down (in a good way) and I am now finally able to get back to you all! I've missed you dearly and I hope that you will enjoy this time as we move forward with all things spring...on the list are florals, color blocking and tribal/ikat, to name a few. Feel free to send in ideas or requests and I will do my best to accommodate!

As I look back the progress I have made with you all over the last year or so, I am considering an expansion...an expansion that will address more than just clothing and accessory trends. I have always had a passion for all things pretty, though the subject of that prettiness varies daily, and I think that I will take this time to explore these pieces. So in addition to the many shoes, dresses and jewelry pieces I come across, I will also share with you tiles, home accents, furniture and maybe, just maybe, that pretty rock I found while hiking.

For those of you that are unaware, I also crochet. I find that I crochet more in the winter time than I do in the warmer months, maybe it's that warm yarn in my lap, what I am making is usually seasonally appropriate and that I find it rather soothing. I will likely also share you all pieces that I've finished and ideas I might have for new projects or manipulating a pattern to something specific I see in my head. 

I hope that you all will stick around for the ride! I'm sure it will be a blast!

Is black and white any less unexpected?

 Periodically color blocking comes back in a big way and this fall is no exception. Almost everywhere you turn right now you are likely to be confronted with pinks and oranges or blues and greens together and especially so on shoes, platforms specifically. But being the one for contrast that I am, I am totally in love with the black and white version of this trend. It goes with everything while simultaneously making a statement by creating visual interest. It is even more fun when it is done on a classic piece like these TopShop VATICAN Off White Contrast Snaffle Trim Loafers. Because it is a basic loafer, they will go with just about anything, but because of the black trim they will always make a statement!

When applying this same theme to bags, what could be more perfect than this TopShop Contrast Trim Doctors Bag which speaks to this season's obsession with satchels. Satchels are such a timeless bag and are essentially always in style. Some colors or textures might speak to one season more than the next, but the satchel itself is not going anywhere. So adding a beauty like this one with its contrasting trim is a must. The shape and design are long running and the color choices allow for it add some punch to your look. And potentially adding a short colorful scarf to one of the handles would only make it that much better.

When I'm getting dressed in the morning, I prefer to have one piece that provides the most interest, while the rest play supporting roles. With those loafers or that bag, the outfit would likely still include a statement necklace but then the shoes would provide something just a little unexpected. And we all need something a little unexpected dont we? 

Everyday...every which way...

MICHAEL Micheal Kors Jet Set Medium Shopper

 What is a neutral? Is it by definition something that goes with everything? Is it a piece that complements just about everything in your wardrobe? It is a color or an accessory? Is it both? For me, it is all of the above. Some neutrals are just easy...black pants and pumps, brown belt, everyday necklace...others are more difficult...I was chit chatting with Monica and Adrienne and we have all noticed separately that we are in need a new carryall tote...a bag that we can carry with us wherever we go, work, shop, play, that will match just about everything without much need to switch it out from day to day...in these conversations I realized that with bags, as with most things, I dance to the beat of my own drummer. Adrienne prefers the classic styling of the Longchamp Le Pliage, in billberry if you please...while Monica gravitates towards the smooth leather and classic black of this kate spade new york litchfield joelle leather tote, both of which can be found at Nordstrom. Myself on the otherhand, I am drawn something with subtle color and classic details.

The everyday bag is one that fits "all the necessities of my life," as Monica calls it and is sturdy enough to take the abuse associated with a true carryall. I have an affinity for the classic shape and details of this MICHAEL Michael Kors Jet Set Medium Shopper in purple, it is everything I would ever need. The size lends to it being able to fit everything, including my beloved Nook Color and the shorter straps are perfect to carry on my forearm or my shoulder without having to use the shoulder strap. To have an everyday bag with some color, that can make the transition from day to night and spring to fall is perfect.



Cole Haan Heritage Quilt Archer Mini Satchel

When it's time to add bigger dash of color, for those moments when something muted just won't work, set your sites on this Cole Haan Heritage Quilt Archer Mini Satchel. The shape is classic, the quilted texture gives you some visual interest and the color is to die for. Mustard is shade that has been around forever and its tonal qualities are classic and bright without being garish. The darker undertones allow it to be fall staple, bringing some life in the dull dreariness of the colder months, but its yellow overtones let it shine on bright summer days. When planning that investment staple...make sure that the style is your own and the shape and color are something that will transition with you throughout the year. For me, it will likely always have some color. I wouldn't be me without some visual interest...what will work for you, every day, every which way?

Light my fire...

Aidan Mattox Sequin Sheath

My friends will tell you that I have been waiting for some red to catch my eye...and finally that has happened! I has been wondering how long it would take before this eye catching color would turn up in a summer that has relegated it to the shadows. This summer appears to be all about the happy brights of the color wheel and the more saturated hues are waiting for their grand entrance this fall I believe, to which Crocheting the Reef agrees.

Reds of all shades are going to get you noticed, but the question is how. After the age of 10 or so, the primary shade we often seen on playgrounds and in day cares is one of the past and we enter into those shades that emphasize our ever growing maturity. Even in flux, while we are desperately trying to carve our own niche in the world there is a shade that complements our age and more specifically the moment. Take this Aidan Mattox Sequin Sheath Dress. The color is more of a burgundy, which would normally imply that the wearer is older, but the style, and the sequins no less, let you know that this woman, while young, is secure and not afraid to be noticed. She isn't flashy, but she is definitely going to catch your eye.



Alexander McQueen Sculpted Wedge

Because there are so many shades of red, it is easy to get lost in narrowing down what direction suits you best. Can you pull off the deepest of burgundies or is that going to make you look sallow. Will a shade that blurs the line between hot pink and red make you stand out in a good way. Even though InStyle says that America's Most Wanted Nail Polish in Washington, DC is OPI's Big Apple Red, is it a good idea for you to go traipsing about such a stand out color? And sometimes, no matter the shade, the package that the color comes in, makes all the difference. Most women that enjoy clothes, have or want a pair of red shoes. And when it comes to shoes, because they are a little more removed from your eye line, most women can get away with most shades. Take these Alexander McQueen Peep Toe Sculpted Wedge Pumps. The shade is definitely knocking on the door of primary, but who would dare criticize? They are gorge. Definitely a shoe that will draw attention. Not everyone is going to be comfortable in a shoe this high or this edgy, but that's the point. This shoe isn't for everyone and most can appreciate it, even if they wouldn't walk a mile in them.

Shades of Grey...or gray?

Cara Accessories Pave Crystal Knot Ring

From heather to gunmetal, grey, or gray, is a color that most often falls into the neutral category, but definitely has a life of its own. It encompasses silvers and slates, from the lightest baby approved to the darkest almost black varieties and looks good doing it. Often the 3rd color in athletic color schemes, the one no one talks about...and the color of our favorite earrings. Greys often lend a background to a statement piece, but when done well, they can be a statement all their own. In the era of statement jewelry, real or costume, grey, especially gunmetal, is one that is versatile and works with most anything, even gold, when done properly. Take this Cara Accessories Pave Crystal Knot Ring, the aesthetics of it allows it to speak it's statement loud and clear, but the color of it allow it to work in tandem with any shade of the rainbow. And what a lovely rainbow it is...It participates in the conversation that your outfit starts and is a subtle exclamation point people will find themselves drawn to...and probably a little jealous of. A bit fun, a little bit frivolous, but definitely necessary.

Valentino 'Lace - Large Nuage' Hobo

But grey doesn't have to be limited to jewelry...any accessory works in grey, shoes and bags alike. I was torn with which of these examples to use today, so I decided to use both. This bag is just GORGE. My life is incomplete without it, not really, but you understand. Valentino got it perfect with this 'Lace - Large Nuage' Hobo. The size of it is perfect. Being one to operate in extremes, I like by bags either massive or minuscule, and this is perfection. I can get everything I need in there with room to spare, including a change of clothes, I'm sure. I'm the single girl with the 'mom bag.' Ask me for anything on any given day at any given time, I can rummage around until I find exactly what it is you are looking for, band aids, lotion, 4 different kinds of chap stick, Advil, and probably even enough snacks for everyone at the party. Its just what I do.

Bronx 'Heat of the Nite' Flat

And anyone that knows me, knows that I have a REALLY hard resisting a fab pair of shoes. Some have even called me obsessed. Not that I can blame them.  Nothing has the ability to make everything better like a great pair of shoes can. When it comes to shoes, I am the consummate girl. Forget chocolate...want to fix it...get me a gift card to Nordstrom's shoe department. I'll be your best friend for life...or at least until I get the shoes home. And these Bronx 'Heat of the Nite' Flats will do just that. The shade of grey that they chose here, manage to remain in the background, but still make a statement in the way that only grey can. The style is classic. What's more classic than a pair of oxfords? But the fact they are grey, makes them just a touch unusual and thus, interesting. And we could all use a little interesting in our lives, cant we? 

You are my Sunshine, my only sunshine...

Yellow is a color that most people associate as bright and happy…a lot like sunshine. I recently wore all yellow to work, and almost 100% of the staff called me sunshine all day. Yellow is the feeling of gentle sun on your skin on a nice summer afternoon; the smell of honeysuckle in a spring breeze… Yellow is one of those colors that almost always evokes warmth and happiness. It is the perfect color for the infamous ‘smiley face.’ Most commonly associated with spring and summer, it is a color that finds it place on sundresses and straw bags.

Take this print matte jersey dress by Maggie London. Even though paired with a graphic black print, the joyful feeling of it still shines through. Sold at Nordstrom for $118 this dress can go to a summer concert, the mall, a day party or even a cocktail party with ease. Some might say it’s a bit overdressed for a walk in the park, but they also haven’t met me. A sundress and some flat sandals are a staple in summer for me. But everyone isn’t as infatuated with color as I am and might want to take a more subtle approach. This is where a statement bag will do the work for you. This Longchamp Darshan Abstract Tote is the perfect way to incorporate a shot of color without it being overwhelming or being too bright for someone with more muted tastes.

Yellow is a color that will stand out no matter where tries to hide and thus will not work for a shrinking violet. You will be seen and you will be noticed. The question is...what will you be noticed for? It comes in many shades and the wrong one can make one's skin seem sallow. Universally, bright yellow will compliment most people as happy shades look better that milky ones. Do yourself a favor and inject some happy into your life with a bright and sunny yellow. You'll be glad you did.

What's Prettier than Pink?

When it comes to the ultimate girl color, what hits closer to home than pink? From childhood, we are taught that blue is for boys and pink is for girls. And while I agree that this is something most of us grow out of, pink will always be the color of a girls girl. And I love it! Purple has always been my favorite color to look at, but pink will always be my fave to wear. Preferably hot pink. Something about this particular color seems to work well with the undertones in my skin and I couldn’t be happier about it. But pink is one of those colors that has a hue to go with every complexion, from peaches and cream to the darkest of chocolate and everything in between. While baby pink gets old after about 7 years old, blush and magenta will work for years to come.

My boyfriend told me once that I like clothing with a classic cut in an obnoxious print or color. And while at the time I assumed he was right, it wasn’t until I saw this dress that I knew he was. He usually is. This dress by Tadashi is beautiful by itself, but with the addition of the one shoulder of rosettes is just stunning. And in hot pink no less! Listed as Tadashi Shoji One Shoulder Chiffon Sheath Dress with Rosettes at Nordstrom, this dress works for a night on the town, after five or an evening wedding. With the detail on the shoulder, it eliminates the need for a necklace and simple shoes will allow this dress to shine.

Much like these Zara brand Trousers with Cord, the statement is allowed to be made in a simple way, with color. There isn’t a print to distract you. Just eye-catching color. Bold color in a simple classic cut, is timeless but interesting. A linen pant is en vogue EVERY summer, but when done in hot pink it’s a little more fun. A little more purposeful. And it is still a statement. One that can still be paired with a basic tee and simple shoes and in one fell swoop you’ve managed to come out comfortable and stylish with no added effort. A new way to do the summer uniform. Try adding a splash of well placed color and see how much better you feel that day…I bet you’ll be glowing from compliments!