October 22, 2015

Worth A Check

'Tis the season for plaid! After gracing its presence on the fall runways of Kate Spade, Marc Jacobs, and Michael Kors, plaid has made a huge comeback. This season's tartan is anything but ordinary as we've seen this signature pattern mixed and matched to make us all mad for plaid. Embracing my Scottish roots, I went on the hunt for the perfect plaid piece.

Plaid can be a tricky one. You don't want to go too obnoxious and look like you've cut up your grandmother's curtains, but you also don't want to find too small of checks that resemble a summer gingham. The hue is very important in finding a happy medium between holiday and straight off the Scottish Highland. The style of the garment is always a personal choice as I wasn't looking for the ordinary blazer, button down, or scarf - the norm for plaid sightings. My list for plaid may be specific, but it's worth every check.

I've been looking to purchase a cape for some time now. Store after store, I've been constantly disappointed at the basic styles and lack of quality material. I'm a huge fan of textures and every poncho felt and looked the same. I wasn't even sold on this trend to begin with since I'm one of those people who are constantly cold... However, everything changed when I stepped into H&M and found THE winner. This soft leather lined, plaid cape was the perfect match. The elegant light beige and blue hues were ideal for everyday wear and the buckled hinge embellishment added that special detail that I had never seen before. The longer length resembled more of a blanket that you can easily snuggle with over a fire or simply wear with your winter coat. It was truly love at first sight. Check, please.

xx Christie

September 30, 2015

London Calling

by Christie Nowels

Even though I've been living in London for over a year now, I still get this sense of awe every time I step outside my flat and take in the beauty of its everyday moments. Between the adorable mews and colorful row houses, flower stands at every corner, breakfast spots like the Kensington Muffin Man, and the gigantic palaces that sit parallel to the everyday traveler, I seriously can't get enough of London.

Living in the Royal Borough, there's more perks than simply seeing Kate at your local Zara Home. (which actually does happen) This post code opens your eyes to the glamorous life of the regal and the historic charm that has made expats like myself crave to call London their home. More than Big Ben, Shakespeare, and Prince Harry's "royal nights out," London exceeds all expectations with its captivating aura and dreamy lifestyle that compels visitors to cross the pond. New York and Los Angeles may have better weather, but London's European flare gives every art aficionado a beautiful canvas to fantasize day after day. Architecture continues to suffice my daily inspiration and walking past King Albert's memorial brings me back into an era of majesty. London has maintained its pride in showcasing the royal history of kings and queens for centuries, but this glorious monument may not show its true meaning behind the naked eye. Queen Victoria, now the second longest reigning monarch after the current, Queen Elizabeth II, built this statue as a memorial for her true love and husband, King Albert. Queen Victoria's reign continues to be talked about in the history books, but her love and fond admiration towards her husband can sometimes be lost in translation. This is the true London - the London that has depth and meaning behind every corner, brick laid, and embellishment adorned. The London that rejects the contemporary and cherishes the rich history that lies in its very heart and soul. This is the London that produces serenity and thought; this is the part of London that I love.

There's no doubt in my mind that London will continue to change as modernity creeps up with the cutting edges of technology. After all, London is a global city. But London's history of royalty, rock n' roll, literature, and art will continue to be there throughout the ages, waiting for any lucky individual yearning to call London home.

Dress | H&M
Hat | Urban Outfitters
Ring | Brandy Melville
Booties | H&M

xx Christie

August 21, 2015

Casual Date Night

by Christie Nowels

Whether it's your first date or someone you've been dating for years, the same thought process goes through your head before a lovely evening out on the town - what am i going to wear?

And trust me, you are definitely not alone... On my last visit home to Florida, I was able to pick up some key pieces that have taken my date night outfits to a whole new level of ease. As much as I adore sexy little numbers, I also enjoy a casual look in case the weather turns to its worst or you're just not sure how dressy to be. For me, classic jeans and blouses ooze grace, while leaving you feeling confident all evening long.

For starters, it's time to bring out your straight and bootcut long jeans. Stick to darker washes for the evening to give you the chic elegance you desire or mix a lighter pair with a tank for an occasional day look. I can still fit into mine from 6 years ago, so don't be afraid to reuse those classic styles in the back of your closet. The best part about this pair I have on is you don't have to break the bank. These are from Nordstroms for $59. Talk about a deal!

Next, your blouse. I, for one, am always cold everywhere I go so I like to either bring a jacket or wear a short-sleeved sweater blouse like this one here. Between the texture, fringe detailing, and winter white color, it had "Christie" written all over it and there was no way this piece wasn't coming home with me. H&M has really revamped their clothing to bring designer trends and luxurious elegance at affordable prices. I'm so excited for their new 70's inspired, Retro Revival Collection, and of course counting down the days until Balmain x H&M. Is it November 5th yet?!

Lastly, a look can be tied together with the best accessory of them all - your handbag. I've been a Louis girl ever since I can remember, but make sure to invest in designers that you love! Don't just buy a luxury piece because it's in every fashion magazine, buy something that speaks to you and only you. I prefer to stick to a couple of my favorite designers and have started to build my collection from there. This applies to contemporary brands as well. Tory Burch and Rebecca Minkoff mix swanky fashion with amazing durability and continue to reign a space in my closet season after season.

xx Christie

Photos by Angus Simpson