Casual Weekend Style

DETAILS.
Black Puffer Jacket (on sale) // Forever 21 Striped Tee (old similar here & here) // Denim // Converse Sneakers // Mini Cross Body // Gold Chain Watch (on sale)

CODY'S OUTFIT.
Grey Two Tone Shirt (similar here)  // Denim // Grey Boots // Sunglasses (on sale) // Jack Spade Watch (loving this one)

Outerwear selections are insane this time of year. Don't get me wrong, I love a pretty dress coat (this pink one is my favorite), but you also need a good basic, neutral jacket that you can wear with anything. I got this quilted black puffer a couple weeks and it's been the perfect light weight layer as we run around on the weekends.  I think people automatically assume quilter or puffer jackets make you look puffy, but it's actually the opposite. Flat stitching and quilting on a smaller scale will actually make a piece more form fitting and feminine (stay away from larger puffs and oversized coats to keep it sleek) A quilted jacket’s versatility allows it to go from sporty to chic at the flip of a switch, like switching sneakers for heels. The quilted texture keeps things interesting, so keep other textures understated to let the quilted feature be the star of the show.

Below are a few more casual weekend pieces I'm loving this season. Monday I will be launching my new site! So excited to share with you guys! 

Faux Leather Jacket

Navy Lambskin Leather Scuba Jacket

Free People Hooded Faux Leather Moto Jacket

Snap Front Quilted Down Jacket

Short Ruched Down Jacket

Brit 'Starkford' Belted Quilted Jacket

Faux Shearling Cocoon Jacket

Burberry Brit 'Reeseford' Leather & Genuine Shearling Trim Quilted Jacket

Turnkey Quilted Jacket

Thanks fo reading!
XOX, 

Christine
* Photos by JessaKae

Fall Date Night Ideas under $50

DETAILS.
Denim Jacket (size 0) // Grey Cardigan (size small - so soft!) // Black Coated Denim (runs true to size) // Nude Patent Heels // Chanel Bag (similar under $200 here) // Michael Kors Watch // Sunglasses // Necklace

CODY'S OUTFIT.
Jacket // White V-Neck // Plaid Top (old similar here and here) // AG Skinny Jeans // Sneakers (on sale) // Sunglasses // Nixon Silver Watch


Today's post is a continuation of our mini series on Date nights (if you missed the first post you can read it here). Cody and I put together a list of nine Fall date night ideas under $50:

1. Bonfire: Build a bonfire and enjoy some campfire treats of your choice, like s’mores or roasted starburst. Don't forget skewers! I just ordered this s'more tree skewer so you can cook more than one at a time. 

2. Local Ghost Tours:  Join a local ghost tour in your city.

3. Outdoor Movie Night: Stream a movie of your choice outside with this projector designed for your phone and a blank wall (or sheet). Cuddle up in a flannel blanket with popcorn, some apple cider or any warm beverage of your choice.

4. Geocaching: A friend just told us about this and I am so excited to try it! For those of you not familiar, geocaching is treasure hunting using GPS coordinates. The treasure is usually hidden in weather-proof canisters and range from random trinkets to a pencil and log of successful hunters for you to add your name to. Find geocaches near you by searching online or downloading a Geocache app. 

5. Call it a (bed) day: Stay in bed all day, or as long as you can. Indulge in the laziest activities you can think of, like marathon binge-watching your favorite TV shows, or catching up on a good book or magazine. This blanket alone looks like reason enough to stay in bed all day.

6. Carve pumpkins: Challenge your date to a pumpkin-carving contest. If you wanna take it a step further - solicit votes from friends or on social media. May the best carver win!

7. Fishing: Head to the best local fishing hole and cast a few lines for a relaxing date. If fishing isn’t your thing, take an old loaf of bread to a local pond and feed the ducks or fish.

8. Roam a local bookstore: Share some of your favorite books or discover new favorites together. We like to pick a book store that has a Starbucks or coffee shop so we can drink something warm while we peruse.

9. Hike: Fall is the prettiest time of year. Take advantage of it! 

Below are few more favorites for your Fall date night:

WOMEN'S:

BLANKNYC Faux Leather Jacket

Grey Open Cardigan

Coated Boyfriend Skinny Jeans (just got these- obsessed!)

Kurt Geiger London 'Bond' d'Orsay Pump

MEN'S:

Puffer Fleece Hooded Jacket

Black Watch

Grey Thermal Henley

New Balance '574 Pennant' Sneaker (Men)

Plaid Flannel Shirt

Have a great weekend!

XOX, 

Christine

*Photos by JessaKae

6 Men's Gift Ideas You Won't find in Stores

DETAILS.

Grey Leopard Cardigan (size UK8 ) // White Blouse (on sale! -size small) // Nude Tank ($2 great layering tanks) // Zip Skinny Jeans (on sale -30% off) // Grey Boots (also loving these) // Chanel Bag (similar here)

CODYS OUTFIT. 

Carpe Diem Sweatshirt (also like tee version here) // Men's Skinny Jeans // Red Vans // Sunglasses 

Tomorrow is Cody’s birthday! I love birthday's and figuring out gifts for people. I like to mix a few store bought items with some sort of event or "non store item". So today I wanted to share a few ideas for the non store items and celebrating his big day for every budget:

$$$  Exotic Car Racing: If your guy is anything like mine, even the thought of driving fast cars at (terrifyingly) high speeds is enough to get his adrenaline pumping. Motorsports parks are a great place to let them fulfill those dreams. In addition to letting him walk on the wild side, this gesture is a huge symbol of your faith in his driving abilities. A lot of facilities will also offer motorcycle and kart racing too. Major cities like Las Vegas, New York, and California have exotic racing options, like Lamborghinis, Porches, and Ferrari's but staying local is great option if you are looking to save. 

$-$$$ Sporting Event: Tickets to a game are a go-to on most guys’ lists and luckily the options are pretty much endless! For those looking to splurge, a quick overnight trip to catch one of his favorite teams is one for the books. Local professional or college games can be just as much fun to attend, especially for those that want to partake in the tailgating experience. For those on a budget, you might be surprised at how affordable the less desirable seats can be for certain games. Plus a hot dog tastes just as good in the nosebleeds as it does in the front row. 

$-$$ Couples’ Massage: If your man is more the type that likes to unwind, consider scheduling a couples’ massage. The best part? You get to enjoy it too. Some massage chains have discounted introductory rates to make this gift more affordable, but also consider massage therapists at chiropractic or therapy clinics that might have lower rates. Another option that he might enjoy even more is a stay at home massage from you. Light a few candles, put on some relaxing music, and grab some lotion – and your ready for your at home massage session.

$$ Classic Shave: This might be hit or miss, depending on your significant others taste but I like to imagine a classic barbershop shave is akin to a girls mani/pedi. Research local barbershops and read reviews before you send him to a stranger with a razor at your man’s throat :) 

$ Birthday Boy’s Choice: Celebrations don’t need to be extravagant to be memorable. One of the best, and easiest, presents is to let him choose dinner and a movie. Maybe it's you guys going out, or maybe it's staying in cooking his favorite meal. You might end up eating wings and watching a ninja or superhero movie, but he will be happy – and really that’s all that matters.

Free – Coupon Book: Ok, in some sense this isn't free. After all, we will end up doing some work when he's cashing in on the coupons, but this is a great way to merge romantic and practical into one. Include IOUs for things he will enjoys, like full control over the remote for the night, a daytime lingerie shoe, or maybe a coupon for his favorite homemade dessert. This gift will be priceless – something he can’t get for himself.

No matter what you choose, he will appreciate you taking the time to plan something out! Below are a few more pieces I'm loving inspired by our look above.

HERS:
M·A·C 'Viva Glam Rihanna' Lipstick
Beige graphic animal print sleeveless shirt
'Sunniva' Ankle Bootie
Red Mini Pilot Bag
Cream leopard print midi skirt
HIS:
River Island MensGrey youth nation LA print sweatshirt
Nike 'Air Max 1 Essential' Sneaker (Men)
River Island MensBlack carpe diem print sweatshirt

XOX, 

Christine

Happy Birthday Babe! <3

Photos By JessaKae

Insta Lately.

OUTFIT DETAILS. Black and White Sweater // Smitten Kitten Tee // Distressed Jeans // Quilted Boots // Chanel Bag (similar here)

AIRPORT STYLE. Grey Paradise Tee // Black Cardigan (also loving this one under $50) // AG Distressed Jeans // Birkenstock Sandals // Black Wool Hat // Black Watch // Louis Vouttin Travel Bag  (in love with this version!)

His first international flight - Hello Paris!  Beckam's PJ's: YAY! Pajamas

My sweet baby boy. Will be sharing more from Paris next week. // DETAILS. Pink Maxi Dress (greyish blue version here)

The hubs and I took a weekend trip to San Fran for his birthday. His birthday is actually this Friday but I surprised him with 49ers tickets (his favorite team) so we started the celebrating a little early :)

OUTFIT DETAILS. Denim Jacket (so soft! on repeat right now) // Black Linen Scarf // Black AG Distressed Jeans (loving these) // Quilted Slip On Sneakers // Louis Vouttin Travel Bag

You can follow along daily @hellofashionblog on Instagram. Hope you all are having a great week!

XOX, 

Christine

How to Embrace Plaid

DETAILS.
Black Bomber Jacket (size xs - similar here)  // Grey Zip Top (size small) // Black Dotted Blouse (size small - also own it in white as seen here) // Plaid Distressed Denim (size 26 - runs small - size up) // Black Suede Booties (true to size)
ACCESSORIES.
Celine Bag (similar under $100 here) // Gold Boyfriend Watch // Karen Walker Sunglasses

When you think plaid, stop thinking lumberjack or schoolgirl – this season’s plaid pieces add an urban twist to the familiar print. Whether you are ready to embrace plaid fully this season or prefer to start with a few accents (like this plaid scarf under $20), you can do it without straying from your style. 

From plaid, tartan to buffalo check, there are so many options for incorporating this trend into you closet. You can find just about any color combination since plaid is having its moment right now, but the darker, subtle hues (like this denim) are all the rage this fall. Your choices for plaid pieces aren’t limited to button-ups and coats anymore, bold plaid denim and bottoms are being seen everywhere this season. 

If you are opting for a more subtle plaid look layering is key. Mixing prints and textures creates contrast in your ensemble and distracts from your eye focusing on one print. I opted for a sheer dotted blouse against the plaid paired with contrasting light and dark layers to create this effect. 

If you can’t decide on how you will embrace plaid this fall, here are a few pieces to help get you inspired:

Wayf Sleeveless Mock Turtleneck Dress

Paige Denim 'Jimmy Jimmy' Patch Detail Skinny Boyfriend Jeans

Plaid Drape Front Swing Coat with Faux Leather Trim

rag & bone/JEAN Zip Detail Print Denim Leggings (Red Buffalo)

Joe's Mid Rise Skinny Jeans (Coated Plaid)

Hudson Jeans 'Nico' Mid Rise Skinny Stretch Jeans (Cadet Punk Plaid)

Halogen® Knit Moto Jacket

rag & bone/JEAN Skinny Stretch Jeans (Sloane Plaid Repair)

Thread & Supply Sweater Sleeve Jacket

XOX, 

Christine

Why to Invest in a Handbag?

DETAILS.

Ro & De Tank (also got this) // H by Bordeaux Cocoon Cardigan (size small - also bought grey color - worn here) // Distressed Denim (runs true to size - size 26) // Black Suede Booties (runs half size small) // Photos by JessaKae

ACCESSORIES.
Black Chain Watch // Karen Walker Sunglasses // ILY Necklace // Celine Luggage Tote (similar here)

Today and tomorrow I will be discussing the importance of investment pieces. While I always appreciate on-trend, bargain pieces, the shelf life for some of these pieces usually doesn't last beyond a few seasons, so it's important to have a mix of both. Mixing a high end piece with a low end makes the cheaper items look more expensive. The key is picking investment pieces you can wear over and over.

Today's focus is on investment handbags. I can remember like it was yesterday the day I purchased my first Celine. The anticipation is almost as vivid as the memory of its arrival. I had saved up for my first big purchase so when I finally had my hands on it, I couldn’t put it down. I used it so often that some of my readers even teased me for wearing it too much. (You know you who you are! :) I will always love that bag - not just because it was beautiful, but also because I had saved up and earned it. 

Purchasing your first investment piece may seem out of reach at the moment, but here a few tips to make that handbag more attainable and tips to picking the right bag.

1. Set a Goal.  My husband actually taught me this trick. An investment piece is much more fulfilling when you feel like you have earned it. Motivate yourself by aligning your purchase with a goal wether it be professional, financial, fitness, or a personal achievement. Pick something challenging that takes time to earn. Once you reach your goal, reward yourself with a piece you have your heart set on. Your bag will serve as a beautiful and stylish reminder of your dedication, making it all the more exciting to use. 

2. Break up with the Bargains.  I am guilty of being a sucker for sales. It is easy to convince yourself that you really like a bag after you see its irresistible price. Before you purchase flashy discount bags ask yourself would you pay full price for it or are you just falling in love with the price tag? If you can’t resist those sales, eventually your closet becomes full of unloved, bargain bags. But which one is really a better deal: 10 sale handbags you wear once or 1 classic handbag you use constantly? Resist the cheap thrills and put your money towards an investment piece. 

3. Color is Key. Unless you own multiple designer pieces, stick to a neutral tone bag. You want a versatile piece that can be worn with multiple styles and outfits. To get the most wear from your investment pieces, consider some of the year-round neutrals like black, beige, grey, or leopard. If you already own those colors look into a fall/winter neutral like this gorgeous wine, or a versatile spring/summer piece like hot pink.  

4. Return on Investment. When considering resell value, remember that high investment pieces hold their value. Thus in a few years you could sell your designer bag and pick up a new one. These are the few of the classic bags that are currently holding the best resell value: Celine Trapeze, Chanel Boy Bag, Chanel Flap Bag, and the Louis Vuitton Neverfull. 

5.  A Bag for Every Budget. An investment piece for some might be a $300 Rebecca Minkoff, while for others it's a Prada or Chanel. The fact is, purchasing a $200 bag when you are used to spending less than $50 is still considered an investment. Used, quality handbags are also a great alternative to new pieces. There are a lot of reputable dealers that sell gently used designer bags at a discounted price. You can also rent designer bags if you have a special event you want to spoil yourself on. Whatever your budget, save up for pieces that are higher quality than you are used to owning. No matter the price tag, it will be your favorite piece and instantly elevate your look. Just remember no handbag is worth putting yourself into debt. 

Here are a few classic investment options for different budgets. 

Classic Bags $100 - $500:

Rebecca Minkoff 'Avery' Tote

Elizabeth and James 'Mini Cynnie' Calf Hair Crossbody Bag

Rebecca Minkoff Love Cross Body Bag

Rebecca Minkoff 'Love' Crossbody Bag

'Large Mod Squad' Faux Leather Tote

MARC BY MARC JACOBS 'Tread Lightly' Hobo

High end Designer Bags:

Saint Laurent 'Cassandre' Leather Shoulder Bag

Valentino 'Rockstud Dome' Shopper

Chanel Black Caviar Maxi Flap Bag

Givenchy New Obsedia Medium Satchel

Prada Saffiano Lux Double Handle Mini Satchel

Prada Suede Double Bag

XOX,

Christine

A Basic Tee 4 Ways from Flats to Heels

With 365 days in a year and only so much room in a closet, rethinking the ways you wear an item is a must.  It is easy to get stuck in a rut, always pairing the same or similar pieces together, or to let older pieces get tucked away with out reusing them.

A basic tee is one of the most versatile but also most underrated pieces in a closet. In hopes of sparking your creativity, here are a few ways to restyle your favorite basic tee with simple basic pieces you may already have in your closet. I choose a colored tee, but all these looks work great with any color. 

LOOK 1:

Pink Tee (size medium - size up for oversized look) // Black Moto Jacket (size small - on sale) //AG Distressed Skinny Jeans (size 26) // Pink Patent Heels (similar here) // Celine Bag (not available online similar here) // Sunglasses // Black Watch // Nars Lipgloss  

1. Date Night: While it might seem counterintuitive to grab a t-shirt for a date, pairing it with edgier and feminine accessories gives a basic tee a life of its own. Feminine colors and a pair of heels add a softer touch, while a black crop jacket and black accessories add an edgy, masculine balance.

LOOK 2:

Pink Tee (size medium - size up for oversized look) // Black Slim Jogger Pants (size small) // Quilted Slip On Shoe (runs a little small - went half size up) // Marc Jacobs Bag // Sunglasses // Black Watch

2. Weekend - Daytime: Weekends seem to scream “T-SHIRT!”, but a pair of jeans is expected.  Add a twist with a pair of crop sweats paired with a dressier slip-on shoe instead of a workout shoe. I am obsessed with these new jogger pants. I got them in three colors - they are super soft and a sleek sweat pant. Pair a few simple accessories to your daytime look to create a laid back but put-together weekend ensemble.

LOOK 3:

Pink Tee (size medium - size up for oversized look) // Black Slim Jogger Pants (size small) // Pink Patent Heels (similar here) // Sunglasses // Black Watch // Celine Bag (not available online similar here) // Photos by JessaKae 

3. Day to Night: If your weekends are anything like mine, sometimes it feels like the day’s activities necessitate a wardrobe change but allow no time for it. This is always a great opportunity to rethink a basic tee. Swapping your slip ons for a pair of heels instantly elevates this look from day to night-appropriate. This on-the-go look is always a great option for transitioning from errands to a girls’ night.

LOOK 4:

Pink Tee (size medium - size up for oversized look) // Grey Maxi Dress (similar under $50 here) // Report Ankle Boots (similar here and here) // Sunglasses // Silver Michael Kors Watch // Prada Bag (almost sold out - also loving this one) // Knot Bracelets

4. All day, everyday: My final look is one that you could wear anywhere. By layering a knotted tee over a maxi, you create a dimensional look that is both comfortable and flattering. Paired with a structured bag and ankle boots, this relaxed, unexpected combination is an outfit appropriate for any casual occasion.

XOX, 

Christine

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.