A Simply Stylish Event

When CakeStyle closed last year, I looked for a company that would allow me to continue to work with my clients both in Chicago and nationwide. I couldn't believe my luck when I came across Keaton Row – it was the answer to all of my stylist prayers. Keaton Row provides an incredible online platform that allows me to pull pieces from shops like Nordstrom, Shop Bop, and ASOS to create (free!) complete lookbooks for my clients. 

I'm thrilled to be one of three stylists to represent KR at the upcoming Simply Stylist Chicago event this Saturday! This awesome event includes Q&A and breakout sessions with industry big wigs, and a chance to network and rub shoulders with like-minded city stylists. If you're a stylist (or want to be), get your tickets here and swing by the Keaton Row table where you can sign-up to gain access to KR's seriously super (stylish) site. Hope to see you there!

You're On The List

Pretty much every single brand has an email list, and if you're like me, you sign up when you see that promise of a discount code. Of course, once I use it, I eventually unsubscribe (or keep an old email address just to send that junk to). But here are a few email lists worth sticking with, a few that I've found continue to show customer appreciation with periodic coupon offers ...

• Henry & Belle – this local denim company makes some of my favorite jeans (perfect amount of give, high enough rise) and they send out discount codes occasionally, which is just dandy if you ask me!

• Cowshed makes some seriously luxurious scented bath products (and they're all natural!). I'm hooked on the Knackered Cow line, scented with lavender and eucalyptus. I'm also a fan of their flash sale codes they send out.

• Ann Taylor has really been hitting it out of the park lately with their clean classics, perfect for stylish work ensembles. I love their generous discount codes, too!

• Moo.com takes your business to the next level with their variety of luxe business cards (I love the mini moo cards!) letterhead, accessories, notecards, you name it! Oh yeah, they email out coupon codes too.

• Ballard Designs is everything my home dreams are made of. We've implemented a few of their decorative items into our current condo (thanks to their coupon codes), but I'm definitely gonna need a big home someday for all the pretty pieces I want!

Photo courtesy of Pinterest

Sale Away

Just like now is the time to score a good leather jacket on sale – it's also the best time to snag some new fall duds at the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale. Starting Friday (or two days ago, for you Nordies card holders), tons of stylish stuff is marked way down, which means now is the time to get your hands on those wardrobe staples for the cooler months ahead. I know, it's sad but true ... autumn is right around the corner, so get ready and set for the stylish new season! Below are some classic pieces that should be on your sale-radar come Friday ...

Clockwise from top:
• A quality knee-length coat (something for those months before the puffy coat comes out). I love this grey one as an alternative to black.

• A new leather fall bag. This Tory Burch tote is perfect for everyday use at work, but chic enough with the chain detailing for the weekend or a night out.

• A nice cashmere sweater. This cream drape cardigan is one of those pieces you'll grab all fall/winter because it will go with everything and last forever (with proper care). 

• Faux leather pants. I snagged a pair last year, similar to these 7 For All Mankind and can't wait to don them again – think of them as a casual go-to, but like your black jeans cooler big sister.

• Heeled black ankle boots. Forgo fancy details like buckles or chains – a simple pair like these awesome Acne Studio boots go with everything from dresses to jeans to leather pants. 

• A versatile wrap dress. There's a reason the DVF wrap dress is a wardrobe staple – you can wear it casual with tights and boots for work or dress it up with heels and a statement necklace or earrings for an evening event. Choose a neutral like this navy one for the most wearability. 

The Summer Necklace

I like to keep accessories a little lighter in the summertime, so I'm loving the long lariat style necklace to layer on top of my everyday pieces. A far cry from the lariat style I wore in the 90's — a lot more beading, a lot less fine jewelry — these thin chains add just a hint of shimmer on top of a summer tan. I'm also pretty modest when it comes to showing any skin, but I love this look with a deep vneck or scoop neck blouse. The only question is which adorable one to get? My current faves ...    

From left: catbird gold bar  //  shark tooth lariat  //  Gorjana honeycomb  //  beaded lariat  //  Rayna Eye lariat

Staple Sale Scores

It's kind of hard to think about wearing a thick, leather jacket in July, but now is the best time to score a sweet deal on this wardrobe staple. I came across this gem on deep discount and couldn't resist (especially given the similarity to my beloved Acne Rita jacket). With fall attire starting to fill stores, peruse those sale racks now for a fantastic classic leather jacket (tip: it goes with everything!)   

Clockwise from top left:  tan Michael Kors moto jacket   //  black denim-style leather jacket  //  white longline jacket  //  grey suede moto jacket  //  classic biker jacket  

The Reduced Republic

After my weekly sweep through Zara (it helps that my husband pretty much exclusively shops there as well), we were drawn to the giant "sale" signs in the neighboring Banana Republic. I always find some great classics here and this trip was no different ... even better, all of my faves were on the sale rack! I came away with the cream colored jacket below and cannot wait to wear it (obviously after this heatwave subsides). Below are a few items I may have to head back for ... like immediately 

Clockwise from top left:

faded chambray shirtdress  //  versatile nude wedges  //  cream textured jacket  //  striped halter dress  //   navy maxi dress  //  polka dot buttondown  //  eyelet aline dress  //  tailored sailor shorts 

Have a Perfect Summer Weekend!

Happy weekend! Isn't it amazing that we get foggy/rainy/cool weekdays, but gorgeous weekends? If the forecast of 80 and sunny holds true, I'm hoping to finally grab brunch at The Dawson on their awesome patio (above) ... I just can't decide between the incredible salmon breakfast or decadent french toast ... 

Also this weekend ...

• The 45th Annual Pride Parade kicks off in Uptown this Sunday. This day long event is always a fantastic time, full of fun loving people, definitely not to be missed!

• I'm a huge (huge) Beatles fan, so since I'll never fulfill my dream of seeing them live, I "settle" for the solo shows by Paul and Ringo. Ringo Starr and His All Star Band will take the stage at the Chicago Theater this Saturday – a perfect venue for this old Beatle.

• Another summer weekend, another fun summer festival! Lincoln Park Summerfest, to be specific, and this one has all the bells and whistles – BBQ, live music, beers in the park, and shopping. 80 and sunny out? Perfect. 

Have a great weekend!

Photo courtesy of TWO restaurant

The Summer Shoe

I am still loving my Kaanas espadrilles that I picked up a few months ago – they're comfortable and stylish and pretty much the perfect summer shoe. Well this summer staple isn't only for us gals, I'm definitely digging the espadrilles for dudes. I like the slip ons, but the lace up versions are the perfect warm weather wear for your man friend. They look awesome with casual cuffed trousers, tailored shorts, or my fave, the summer short suit. Below are a few good pairs to send his way ...

Ben Sherman Pril Lace Up, $70


Keds Champion Jute, $39.95


Sperry Top-Sider Espadrille, $64

The Most Wonderful Time of the Year

It's one of my fave events of the year – the Zara sale. It's no secret that it's pretty much my fave spot to shop, so when the decent prices are slashed to amazing prices, I'm there in a flash. Below are my top pics from the sale, currently on now ...   

layered printed dress – $59.99


combination blouse – $35.99


high waisted skinny jeans – $35.99


patent leather court shoe – $39.99


Triangle bikini top – $15.99


contrast dress – $39.99


cut work skirt – $59.99


dress with bow – $25.99


court shoe with bow – $59.99


coat with zips – $119.99

Short Story

Lately I've been set on finding the perfect outfit for summer events. I wanted something casual yet chic, crisp but still comfortable – enter, the short suit. I love the idea that these tailored separates can dress up easily with a pair of heels, go casual with some espadrilles or wedges, and be worn separately for a stylish daytime look. Below are just a few of my faves to choose from ...

Rag & Bone jacket and shorts


Zara jacket and shorts


Forever21 jacket and shorts


Paul Smith jacket and shorts


Dolce Vita jacket and shorts

Currently Craving: Eyelet

I am loving all of the pretty eyelet pieces right now. The traditional girlie material is a summer staple, then there's the modern square fabric which gives a feminine silhouette a bit of edge. Below are a few of my current faves ...  

From left: I love this matching skirt and top combo  //  eyelet gives these shorts a sweet summery feel  //  this white eyelet dress is perfect with sandals or dressed up with heels  //  this eyelet top is a warm weather take on the basic tee  //  pair this white skirt with a chambray shirt for an effortless summer look.

Snag these pieces here!

Have a Fun Filled Weekend!

Happy weekend all! It may not be the beautiful warm weekend we had last weekend here in Chicago, but why not make it a fun one anyway. You know what it's really time for? Spring cleaning. So while the weather figures itself out, let's get to figuring out what to keep in our closets ...

Also this weekend ...

• speaking of closet cleans – if you bring a gently used item into Calypso on Oak Street, you get a whopping 20% off your entire purchase ... and I'm loving this silk printed dress and this long cardigan.

• Another shopping spot to hit up is the Francis W Parker garage sale – and this is a serious sale – we're talking designer duds at rummage prices. go.

• If you're in Chicago, it's hard not to get caught up in Hawks fever ... catch them this Sunday at 2pm. Weather permitting, our fave spot to watch them is at Grandview in the beer garden (sun, TVs, good food, pretty perfect). 

Have a great weekend!

Photo courtesy of Pinterest

The Little White Dress

Spring – the season when I can add a very important color to my wardrobe of black, gray, and tan ... white! Skirts, tops, pants, jackets done in bright white create clean, crisp spring ensembles ... but nothing beats the LWD. From casual swing silhouettes to slim sophisticated dresses, swap out your go-to black for a spring white piece.   

All of these pretty pieces are available on Keaton Row.

Have a Mother of a Weekend!

Happy Mother's Day weekend! Whether it's your mother, grandmother, or friend who recently became a mom, let's celebrate theses brave, beautiful women. I'm looking forward to spending the day with mom sharing a few of these.

Also this weekend ...

• My mom taught me all the tricks of the shopping trade. If the same is true for you, do what you do best and take her over to Dose Market this Sunday and see what fun finds you can score. 

• Need a last minute gift for her? One of my fave jewelry brands, Winifred Grace, just opened their first shop at 5642 N. Clark. Snag mom a pair of cool earrings or one of these amazing personalized pieces. 

• If you're looking for something a little more thrilling to do with mom, you could always test your nerves at the new Hancock observatory "tilt". Have you seen this? You stand against a window – 94 floors up – and it angles outward 30 degrees. Whoa mama – ha! 

p.s. The above photo is from my wedding, when my mom and I couldn't take a serious photo, but I love the authentic moment.

Have a great weekend!

Have a Fantastic Weekend!

Happy weekend all! It's going to be an action-packed weekend, what with the dynamic duo of the Kentucky Derby and Cinco de Mayo right around the corner. Saturday is supposed to be a lovely day in Chicago so it will no doubt be a fun day around town ...

Also this weekend ...

• It's the one weekend a year that I love going to the warehouse of a bar, Joe's on Weed, to watch the Derby and place a few dollar bets next door at the OTB. Even better, when the weather is nice you can sit outside (and still watch the race on their outdoor TVs). 

• If you're heading to a party, or just enjoying the race from the comfort of your very own couch, it's always fun to make a festive cocktail for the event – so in light of the dual "holiday", whip up a Mint Julep Margarita! Sounds like the tastiest, best of both worlds to me. 

• Or instead of drinking the day away, head to Plumbers Hall for the Modern Vintage Chicago sale. This is one seriously great event, full of fantastic finds (past scores include my vintage Chanel pleated skirt and floral maxi).

Have a great weekend!

Photo courtesy of Tablespoon

Have a Sale-Filled Weekend!

It's officially spring and the weather is juuust starting to cooperate, which means it's time to do some spring cleaning! (which really means just making room for new fun finds). There are a ton of sales going on this weekend, all of them awesome and not to be missed ...

• Hope you got your tix for the Gilt City Warehouse sale happening tomorrow (don't worry, you can get them here). Big, huge brands up to 90% off ... those are some serious deals to be had!

• If vintage is more your thing, swing by the Randolph Street Market Saturday or Sunday to score anything and everything from vintage baubles to antique home goods.

• Spring cleaning isn't just for the closet – swap out your tired looking lamp or side chair with a vintage-inspired piece from the Bonus Jayson Home Warehouse Sale happening tomorrow only! If it's anything like their annual fall warehouse sale, get there early, grab what you can and enjoy!

• Snag new duds online too with all of the friends and family sales going on: Take an extra 25% off Theory's sale with code TSPRINGFF, and 25% off Tory Burch's with code FRIENDLY, and 30-50% off J.Crew with code GOSHOP.

Happy shopping!

Photo courtesy of Pinterest

Gilt-Free Shopping

It's that time again, the Gilt City Warehouse sale is coming up at the end of the month! If you haven't shopped this event before, get your tickets now (it always sells out). Almost anything and everything you've seen on the fab site Gilt – from housewares to handbags, kids shoes to serious designer duds – it's all marked way way down at this sale. 

Past deals I've spotted were a beautiful Marni maxi dress for $145, a classic pair of Prada pumps for $85, and a killer John Varvatos men's suit for $180. Even if you only walk away with a $20 pair of sunglasses, it's worth it (cause those used to be $300!).

Get your tickets here and I'll see you there

photo courtesy of So Much To Smile About

Row This Way

In my continued effort to make a stylish wardrobe easily attainable for all, I've partnered with Keaton Row – the super easy (and free!) online styling service. Like I've been doing for some time, I will happily shop for ladies seeking stylish staples, only this time I pull pieces from shops women already know and love, like Nordstrom, ASOS, and Shopbop. And like I mentioned, the service is free! You only pay for the items you choose to purchase. 

So if you need a dress for that upcoming wedding, new work staples, or just don't have time to shop for those fun spring pieces yourself, check it out Keaton Row here.      

Happy Chilly Spring Weekend!

Happy first weekend of spring! Of course, we all know our Chicago spring doesn't really start for another month, it's still going to be a chilly weekend. I think the funny chart above pretty much sums it up. 

Also this weekend ...

• I know we're all looking forward to warmer weather, but why not indulge in the warm treats around town while we still can, like the spicy and sweet Mexican hot cocoa from Mindy's Hot Chocolate or the French onion fondue from Maude's Liquor Bar (or if you're ambitious, try your hand at this copy cat recipe)  

• One of my fave shops in Chicago, Stitch, is opening their brand new space today. Head to 1927 North Damen tonight from 5-8 pm to check it out, enjoy some sips and a free gift with purchase! 

• The Rebuilder's Exchange on Webster Avenue is celebrating 5 years of helping architectural salvage junkies like myself find those fun pieces for their homes or building projects. To do so, they're holding a party and fundraiser at the new Lagunitas Brewery in Pilsen. Get all the deets on the Salvager's Ball here.

Have a great weekend!

Photo courtesy of longliveirony.com

Have a Great Weekend!

Whoa, it's already Friday! The good news about this weekend is we spring ahead, meaning we get those nice, long sunny days (now, it'd be awesome if spring weather actually came along with it). 

Also this weekend ...

• Steve and I have been going brunch-crazy these past few weekends – meeting friends and making the most of Sunday-Fundays. One of my new fave spots – Lady Gregory's in Andersonville (those blue cheese chips did not disappoint!). 

• A bunch of the coolest spots in Wicker Park are having a giant warehouse sale this weekend. Score sweet duds from Penelope's, amazing vintage from my fave Kokorokoko, and more baubles than you can fit in your jewelry box.

• Have you seen the amazing new ad for Dove chocolate starring none other than Mrs. Audrey Hepburn?! It's pretty incredible, and just as dreamy as all of her movies.

Have a great "spring" weekend!

Photo courtesy of Etsy