Flaunt it Friday - Tips to Making Your Legs Look Longer

DETAILS.

Blush Sweater // Geometric Dress (under $30) // Nude Patent Heels (also loving these) // Chanel Bag (similar here) // Karen Walker Sunglasses // Dual Pearl Earring Stud (on sale $14)

As women I think we all have insecurities. It's easy to pick a part things we want to change. Recently Target challenged me to do a post featuring an asset I enjoy "flaunting". At first I was caught off guard, why is it so easy for us to pick a feature we want to change, but deciding on a feature we want to flaunt takes more considering. I think too often we focus on how we want to improve ourselves instead of embracing and appreciating the features we already have. So today I wanted to share some tips for flaunting your legs and making them look longer. 

1. Heels! Pumps! Stilettos! Oh my! - I can’t say it enough. Adding height instantly emphasizes and flatters your legs. Stay away from ankle strap heels these make your legs appear shorter. 

2.  Aim High - Opt for high waisted skirts and pants. A high waistline adds inches to your legs by creating the illusion that they start higher than they actually do. 

3.  One Color - A monochromatic look will create an uninterrupted vertical line. All black and all white are the popular monochromatic looks that add length to your legs.

4. Go Nude - When picking a shoe color - go nude. This often blends with your skin tone and makes your legs look longer. In the cooler months you can use this trick by pairing black tights and black heels for the same effect.  (Nude shoe options: short heel //  high heel)

5. Tuck it - We all love the look of a long flowy top, but these actually elongate your torso and shorten your legs. Tuck your tops into your waistline and pair it with a crop jacket.  

6. Show Some Skin - In some cases shorter is better. Choose a hemline you a comfortable with, knee length and shorter is best when wanting to add length to your legs. Loving this short navy and green plaid skirt. 

7. Point it Out - If you can avoid round toe shoes. Pointy stilettos extend the length of your feet adding length to your legs. 

8. Cuff it Later - Avoid cuffing your bottoms at all costs. This instantly shortens the length of your legs. 

9. Go Tall - Over the knee and thigh high boots are great for creating a long visual line down the leg. Pair it with a dress or jacket that doesn't show a gap where the boot ends and your legs will appear even longer. 

10. Vertical Patterns & Lines - Vertical lines draw your eye up and down which give a lengthening effect. Pleated skirts or vertical stripe pants work great for creating a lengthening silhouette. 

Whatever your favorite asset may be, wear it with confidence. Have a great weekend! 

XOX, 

Christine

Photos by JessaKae

* Special thanks to Target for sponsoring this post. Compensation was provided by Target via Glam Media. All thoughts and opinions are my own and are not indicative of Target. 

Why Invest in Designer Shoes?

 LOOK 1 - The heel every woman needs

Sweater (sized up for oversized look - on sale 40% off)  // Distressed Boyfriend Jeans // Christian Louboutin Heels // Prada Bag // Silver Bracelets // Sunglasses

LOOK 2 - The classic boot
Sweater (sized up for oversized look - on sale 40% off) // Joes Coated Denim (runs true to size) // Quilted Over the Knee Boots // Prada Bag // Silver Bracelets // Silver Bar Thumb Ring // Sunglasses

Today marks part two of my segment on investment pieces. Today I am excited to discuss my hands down favorite thing to buy: shoes! Shoes are the creme de la creme of an outfit. A simple addition of a great pair of shoes can completely (and instantly) change your look. They are one of the first things people are drawn to in an outfit so invest there first. The above two looks feature the two classic designer styles I bought this season: these nude patent pumps, and these quilted over the knee boots, also got these suede beauties (not pictured).  

For me a great pair of heels can do wonders, I know for others it's a gorgeous pair of flats, or a classic leather boot. Whatever your style, I think we all agree there is nothing like the confidence you get wearing a killer pair of shoes. 

So let's talk designer shoes:

1. Material Matters - The first piece you invest in will quickly become your favorite. As all favorites do, it will get a lot of wear. Consider the wear of a shoe’s material before your first big purchase. I have found that patent shoes are less prone to scuffs and scratches than soft leather. This extends the life of the shoe, particularly if they are worn non-stop. My favorite patent designer pumps are my Christian Louboutins and Manolo Blanhiks. If you are adding to a collection of investment shoes, then go for a gorgeous suede or soft leather. 

2. First Stop: Neutrals - This may seem repetitive from Monday's post, but I can’t say it enough: a classic, neutral shoe will never go out of style. It is the most universal, versatile piece you will ever own. Designer shoes should be something that you can wear with everything because, trust me, you will. Since neutral palettes work for every season, they never go on sale. In fact, lots of designer neutrals, like these Christian Loubuotins, sell out quickly. Often they offer pre-sales at the beginning of the season and if you don't order them then, the popular sizes sell out by the time they come in stock. So if you come across a neutral pair you are ready to buy, don’t hesitate.

3. Dish on the Designers - 

* COMFORT - Manolo Blanhiks - I got my first pair of Manolo's this year and I was shocked how comfortable they are. The first time I wore them I was at a work conference and was able to wear them all day with out feeling anxious to kick them off to let my feet relax. I have also heard the Valentino with the kitten heel is really comfortable as well. 

* BEAUTY - Christian Louboutin - Hands down these shoes are the show stoppers. Every time I put them on I fall in love. They are not the most comfortable for long periods of time, but if I would say buy any shoe it would be these. Just got these beautiful suede ones. 

* BOOTS - Stuart Weitzman - Their boots are classic and modern. The most popular style is the 5050 which has an elastic panel on the back which creates a sleek slim fit for all leg sizes. Loving these quilted ones and these suede ones. 

* SPICE - Valentino -  I love the details on these shoes from the strappy silhouettes to the iconic metal hardware. These shoes are a designer staple for your shoe collection. They have them in all heel heights which make them accessible to any style. Also in love with these grey booties they just released and these classic bow D'Orsay pumps.  

4. Let the Shoes Speak - One of my favorite thing about designer shoes is the quality is often seen in the simplicity of your look. If you look at celebrity street style most of their looks are simple and crisp. You don't need a loud noisy outfit, often the minimalist looks make your shoes stand out the most. Let your shoes do the talking!

Below are a few designer favorites:

Christian Louboutin So Kate 120 Suede Pumps

Valentino Leather Rockstud Cage Flats

Gucci Ursula Patent Leather Horsebit Sandals

Valentino Patent Leather Rockstud Pumps

Valentino Patent Leather Couture Bow d'Orsay Pumps

Christian Louboutin So Kate Striped Calf Hair Pumps

Christian Louboutin Iriza 100 Suede D'Orsay Pumps

Valentino Punkouture Patent Leather Cage Flats

Stuart Weitzman Quilted Napa Leather Over-The Knee Boots

If you missed part one on investing in designer handbags - read the round up here. 

XOX, 

Christine

*Photos by Emily Lowe

5 Date Night Ideas

DETAILS.

Ivory Popover Blouse (size small - similar here) // Forever 21 Sweater (old similar here) // Distressed Skinny Jeans (true to size -26) // Nude Patent Heels (sizes sell out fast) // Calf Hair Clutch (also loving this one) // Sunglasses // Gold Watch

CODY'S OUTFIT.

Grey Henley Shirt // Green Utility Jacket // Diesel Jeans // Vans 

TGIF! Who else is ready for the weekend? Today I am excited to launch a mini series on date nights. Over the next couple months I will be sharing a few date night ideas correlated to date night outfits. Some will be dressy, some will be casual, but I wanted to share some ideas on fun things to do with your significant other. Cody and I always try to make date night a priority. After a busy week, it can be hard to find the time and energy for a night alone, but I think that time is really valuable.   

Here are a few date night ideas for a dressier but casual night with your beau:

1. Staycations! Exploring your own city can be just as exciting as traveling. Sometimes Cody and I pack up for the night and just see where the evening takes us. Hotels in Utah frequently offer major discounts to state residents especially in the off seasons (I'm not sure if all states do that, but I would assume they do). This makes it an easy, affordable way for a mini getaway. Also one of my friends recently introduced me to an app called Hotel Tonight, you can only book your stay the day of, but because of the last minute booking you get a larger discount than apps like Priceline. Our favorite staycation spot: Montage - Park City

2. Exploring New Restaurants. Cody and I love eating out. I think it's easy to get into a routine and only go to a few of your favorite spots so force yourself to find something new. To keep things interesting Cody and I take turns deciding on what new restaurants to try. Yelp is always our go to for finding new places. Honestly we have hit some bad spots, but most of the time we end up finding a new place we love. In addition to great food, being a patron of such a wide variety of restaurants makes us feel more connected to the community. 

3. Hot Chocolate Tour: Treats are our weakness! Cody and I especially love hot chocolate. One night he got the idea to try as many hot chocolate places as we could. We went to like six or seven different spots from restaurants, to coffee shops and candy stores. Admittedly I couldn't drink hot chocolate for like two weeks after but it was one of my favorite nights. If hot chocolate isn't your thing, pick a favorite treat you enjoy together, wine tasting, cupcakes, donuts, any treat will do.  Our favorite hot chocolate: Hatch Family Chocolates

4. Comedy Shows: We all know laughter is the best medicine. It releases endorphins and creates a special mood between you and your partner. Whatever your taste in humor, there is such a wide variety of comedy and shows that you are bound to find something you enjoy, whether it be improv, stand up, or even musical comedy productions, enjoy a night laughing together. 

5.  The Drive In:  I hope you are lucky enough to have a drive-in theatre near you – it is a perfect compromise when one wants to go to the movies and the other wants to stay in. Advantages include: new releases, big screens, audience atmosphere, the privacy and comfort of your car, no guilt about smuggling your own treats, easier to cuddle, controlling the volume, and the only person who can shush or be shushed is your date. 

Dressing for the Occasion

Hers:

While these activities don’t require formal attire, I love dressing up a little for date night. Layering a boat-neck knit over a long blouse is a great way to feature both pieces without distracting from the uniqueness of each one. These distressed skinny jeans add a much-needed balance to an otherwise feminine and overly dressy outfit. To complete the look, I wore nude heel, this animal print clutch, and minimal jewelry. These few basic finishes are the perfect way to achieve an effortlessly dressy casual date night look.

His:

Instead of a basic t-shirt, Cody opted for a two-toned tee with a buttoned neckline paired with one of his favorite jeans. He completed the look with an olive utility jacket and Vans with yellow laces. The muted tones leaves him looking composed yet not overdone.

Below are a few more neutral favorites for your date night look:

Christian Louboutin So Kate Patent Leather Pumps

Diane von Furstenberg 440 Haircalf Envelope Clutch

LA't by L'agence Long Sleeve Pull Over

MARC JACOBS 'Incognito' Leather Wristlet

Oversized Cotton-Blend Sweater

Leopard 'Carra' Pump

XOX, 

Christine 

Trend To Try: Jumpsuits

DETAILS.

Pale Pink Jumpsuit // Christian Louboutin Heels // Karen Walker Sunglasses // Black Oversized Clutch // ILY Tres Sparkle Necklace
Photos by Jessakae Photography

I've been eyeing jumpsuits the last couple months and been anxious to try one. I saw this pale pink one with the sheer shoulders and knew it was the perfect one for my first time trying the trend. They are surprisingly more comfortable and versatile than I anticipated. After work I kicked off my heels and paired it with a tailored blazer and my gladiator sandals to give it a more laid back look for a family dinner. I'm dying over this perfectly tailored white lace one from Neiman Marcus but sadly out of my price range. Isn't it gorgeous? Below are a few more favorites in a more affordable price range:

Joie Attilia Jumpsuit

ASOS Jumpsuit With Cami Straps

Young, Fabulous & Broke Dakota Jumpsuit

ASOS TALL Exclusive Wrap Front Jumpsuit

Tularosa Prima Jumpsuit

Eight Sixty Jumpsuit

Hunter Bell Justine Jumpsuit

Tart 'Harli' Stripe Surplice Jumpsuit

Diane von Furstenberg Lucy Jumpsuit

XOX, 

Christine

White Tartan

DETAILS:

Quilted Top / Paige Denim / F21 Tartan Scarf (similar here) / Christian Louboutin Heels (budget friendly here) / Marc Jacobs Bag (similar here) / Michael Kors Watch

Hope you all are having a great week!
XOX, 

Christine 

Stripe Sequin

DETAILS:

ASOS Sequin Dress c/o (on sale) / Christian Louboutin / Gigi New York Clutch c/o

Stripes and sequins are two of my favorite things. I'll be honest dressing a belly can get a little frustrating (only about 10% of the things in my closet fit right now) I was needing a girly day with a little sass and this dress brought that glam feeling I needed. Just because your pregnant doesn't mean you can't have a little sparkle :)

XOX,
Christine 

BLACK FUR

DETAILS:

Anthropologie Fur Moto Jacket / Merona Tee / Liquid Leggings (old similar under $40 here) / Leopard Christian Louboutin Heels (similar on sale budget friendly here) / Celine Bag (loving this under $70)

Up until about three days ago I thought this week was Thanksgiving lol. That whole thing about losing your mind when your pregnant - it's not a wives tale, it's truth! My mind I swear doesn't work the same right now.

Today we are doing having a pre-Thanksgiving party with our friends. The traditional Thanksgiving meal (turkey, green bean casserole, potatoes, and rolls) is hands down one of my favorites. So I'll put together any excuse to have it more than once. Can't wait!

XOX,
Christine

 Don't forget to to stop by the Anthro Cozy Drive this weekend and help your local families in need :)

Penciled Red

ASOS Top (old similar here) / XOXO Skirt c/o / ASOS Jacket (old similar here) / Christian Louboutin Heels / Celine Bag / Michael Kors Watch 

Hey everyone! How was your weekend? Who caught the series finale of Breaking Bad? I am so bummed the show is over. I want to spill my thoughts on the finale but don't want to ruin it for those of you who haven't seen it yet. 

Today's look is all about red. Red is one of those power girl colors, like throwing on red lipstick, you can't help but feel a little glam :) You can vote here for my second XOXO look for a chance to win a $600 gift card. 

Thanks for reading!

XOXO $600 Shopping Spree

APPAREL:

XOXO Jacket c/o / Jumpsuit (old similar here also loving this) / Christian Louboutin Heels (similar here) 

ACCESSORIES:

 Valentino Bag (budget friendly here) / Karen Walker Sunglasses / ILY Earrings 

Taking a break today from the Fashion Week recap to share a look with one of my favorite pieces from XOXO's Fall Collection. Moto Jacket's are one of the most versatile pieces to wear. I loved the detailing on this jacket with the accent leather sleeves, and leather piping on the shoulders to create dimension and shape.

XOXO is offering a $600 shopping spree to one lucky reader.

To enter, vote for my XOXO look on FashionIndie here. A winner will be selected from the blog that receives the most votes. Good luck! 

Bright Leopard

Blouse (old similar here & here) / Zara Jeans / Christian Louboutin Heels / ILY Necklace / Michael Kors Watch

Sorry I have been MIA the last couple days I haven't been feeling well. So today's another quick post. Hope you all are having a great week!

ASbyDF Fall + Giveaway

AS by DF Leather Jacket  c/o / F21 Tank / AG Jeans / Christian Louboutin Heels / Linea Pelle Bag c/o

I'm excited to team up with Alpine Stars by Denis Focil to show case one of my favorite pieces from their new Fall Collection. Their beautiful pieces have been seen on a strew of A-List celebrities from Jessica Alba to Kim Kardashian. This burgundy leather moto was an instant love for me. Today ASbyDF is giving away one of these gorgeous jackets to one lucky reader ($580.00 value). Just follow the rafflecopter links below to enter. Giveaway is open to international readers too. Good Luck!

a Rafflecopter giveaway