Leopard + Gingham | How to Mix Trendy Patterns

Leopard + Gingham are an unlikely duo. Mixing these patterns creates a trendy, but unique vibe that’s fabulous for the workplace or date night. The trick to rocking this mixed-pattern look is matching tones. The earthy hues of the leopard pants pair so perfectly with the pale yellow and creme of this precious, vintage-inspired blouse.

3 Life Lessons on Rediscovering Your Passion

Growing up sucks, am I right or am I right? We adult women are met with changes around every corner–our bodies, our careers, our interests, our friends, our diets. It’s like we are running the Boston Marathon, but like everyday. Exhausting, but also kind of cool to brag about.

It’s just a part of life, they tell you, BUT they never really tell you how often you will have to “find yourself” or rediscover your passions. The struggle is (often) really real. #ReallyReal They also never tell you how you have to start an anti-aging regimen at like 23 or how expensive good moisturizer is–BUT I digress.

The constant changes and evolution of true adulthood are intense whether you’re a stay-at-home mom, a working girl, or a student. We are all met with challenges or disruptions to our detailed plans that make us say, “well, what the firetruck?” or “what do I do now?” And this is what makes us question our passions or what we even like doing. So, here’s three life lessons on rediscovering your passion, and how I learned these lessons myself.

Three Ways to Wear: Vintage-Inspired, Funky Dresses

As I mentioned in yesterday’s Weekly Whistle, I am totally obsessed with these funky, vintage-inspired frocks! Because these dresses are such statement-makers, styling them multiple ways was quite the challenge, but y’all know the VIP–she doesn’t step down from a little fashion game *wink*

By mixing patterns and dressy with casual, I was able to create three new looks with two of my favorite dresses from Monkee’s of Johnson City. Check them out below + be sure to see yesterday’s Weekly Whistle and the VIP Instagram for more ways to wear these absolutely fabulous frocks ♥

VIP Tip:

When it comes to purchasing statement pieces, think of “unconventional” or “non-traditional” ways you can mix things up. An easy way to change up any statement dress is with different accessories–trying to add pops of un-thought-of colors or patterns with shoes and up-cycled, handmade jewelry.

Way One:

Dress: Monkee’s of Johnson City

Shoes: Michael Kors

Choker Necklace: BluKatDesign

Way Two:

Dress: Monkee’s of Johnson City

Plaid Shirt: Old Navy

Shoes: Steve Madden

Necklace: personal vintage collection

Way Three:

Dress: Monkee’s of Johnson City

Plaid Shirt: Free People, Belk

Shoes: Kork-Ease

Short Necklace: BluKatDesign

Stay Fabulous,

Abby Hathorn

Three Ways to Wear: Vintage-Inspired Brocade

If there is one thing I absolutely love (other than my Giant Schnauzer), it’s vintage-inspired patterns. They carry such a sweet history that makes me feel like a walking history book *wink*

From sequins to polyester, I have always been a little obsessed with the origin of my clothes…Hm…what about brocade? This fabulous blouse has a brocade-inspired look–I wonder what its story is?…

Brief VIP Fashion History Lesson:

Coming to style in the Middle Ages, brocade was a popular fabric all over the world. The rich and powerful, who lived everywhere from China and Greece to Byzantium and Africa, sported brocade to showcase their nobility and power. During the Italian Renaissance, brocade took the wealthy by storm by embracing renaissance values with a strong and elegant complexity. Moving its way to Europe, brocade’s popularity grew even more, and to this day, it is still (obviously) very popular. For more history click here.

NOW….let’s get down to business.

Ahh..don’t you just love learning about what you’re wearing?! It makes sporting around town EVEN MORE fun! Or…maybe I am just that much of a fashion nerd *wink* BUT that’s beside the point. Let’s take a look at this week’s totally lovely Three Ways to Wear Vintage-Inspired Brocade.

Look 1:

Blouse: Charming Charlie

Skirt: Forever 21

Heels: Kork-Ease, Belk

Bracelet: Reclaimed-Inspired Goods, Johnson City TN

Look 2:

Blouse: Charming Charlie

Skirt: Style Boutique, Bristol TN

Necklace: BluKatDesign, Etsy

Leather cuff: Luke & Lyla Designs

Tassel Bracelet: Reclaimed-Inspire Goods, Johnson City TN

Heels: Kork-Ease, Belk

Look 3:

WOO! Look 3 is on the VIP Instagram. Click here to take a looksy!

Stay Fabulous,

Abby Hathorn

Three Ways to Wear: How to Dress for Rainy, Autumn Days

Hello, fabulouses, and welcome back to the blog!

There is nothing worse than trying to style an outfit around a rainy day–much less a rainy day with mixed temperatures *wink* So, to help you survive rainy, autumn days this year, I have put together some fabulous style inspiration boards to get you started! Whether you like dressing it up or playing it simple, you’re sure to love these ensembles :)