Weekly Whistle: Lovely Lemon + Excellent Emerald

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Hello, fabulouses, and welcome back to the blog! 

As y’all know, it is all about yellow, yellow, yellow this week on VIP! The bright and positive energy of yellow is making me shake off my major lack of sleep *wink* Starbucks + bright yellow = a mood-changing combo

So, focusing on the theme of yellow, I created this week’s Weekly Whistle outfit using a fabulous lightweight, short-sleeve sweatshirt I got from GAP + my favorite J.Crew skirt EVER. Combining yellow + green could have gone totally “John Deere” (can you tell I grew up in the country? *wink*); however, unique handmade jewelry made this outfit totally spring chic. 

Keep scrolling for more photos + outfit details :)

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Sweatshirt: GAP

Skirt: J.Crew

Wedges: Kork-Ease, DSW

Bangle: Mom’s from the 80s

Necklace: handmade by BluKatDesign

Earrings: handmade by BuriedDiamond

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Stay Fabulous,

Abby Hathorn

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Weekly Whistle: A Southern Belle in the Snow

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Hello, fabulouses, and welcome back to the blog!

It has been snowing like the dickens here all day, and of course, the VIP team created fabulous (and maybe a smidgen crazy) photo shoots *wink* 

Taking a bit of inspiration from my old stomping grounds, I dressed as if I were going to a mid-spring brunch with some other Southern Belles. The juxtaposition of warm-weather clothes and cold-weather conditions made for some fun photos that have me VERY ready for spring and summer *wink*

Now, while I go warm up for some neighborhood sledding later, y’all take a look at these chilly and bright photos! Stay tuned for more from today’s photo shoot :)

Thanks, Winter Storm Octavia, for the fluffy snow. This Southern Belle has enjoyed it :)

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Dress: Three07 | Hat: World Market | Heels: Jessica Simpson | Bracelet: Luke & Lyla Designs

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Stay Fabulous,

Abby Hathorn

Belk’s Most Wanted List for Women from Arlene Goldstein

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Hello, fabulouses, and welcome back to the blog!

Yesterday, spring sprang; and today, the VIP is going to give you Belk’s Most Wanted List for Women from Arlene Goldstein. Now, let’s not lollygag with chit chat–let’s take a look at Arlene’s style statement ideas that are perfect for “Modern. Southern. Style.” See what I did there *wink*

A sleeveless jacket--This piece has simple, cool urban elegance. Moto detailing, classic denim styling or short and boxy—you decide. The options are endless.
Sleeveless jacket–This piece has simple, cool urban elegance. Moto detailing, classic denim styling or short and boxy—you decide. The options are endless.
Soft pant--Spring’s favorite bottom is softly structured and comes in a range of prints and fabrications. We give you permission to wear pattern with pattern for a sophisticated spin, but keep it monochrome.
Soft pant–Spring’s favorite bottom is softly structured and comes in a range of prints and fabrications. We give you permission to wear pattern with pattern for a sophisticated spin, but keep it monochrome.
New maxi--Not the time to skirt the issue. Find the perfect long skirt and add instant cool to your wardrobe. Gathers, slits and “Oh, wow!” prints guarantee the update.
New maxi–Not the time to skirt the issue. Find the perfect long skirt and add instant cool to your wardrobe. Gathers, slits and “Oh, wow!” prints guarantee the update.
Boxy top--New shapes define the spring season and this item is one of the best. Easy and elegant, it complements and refreshes any bottom.
Boxy top–New shapes define the spring season and this item is one of the best. Easy and elegant, it complements and refreshes any bottom.
Updated jacket--From boyfriends to blazers and moto-inspired to bomber styles, the finished look is fabulous when you add a jacket.
Updated jacket–From boyfriends to blazers and moto-inspired to bomber styles, the finished look is fabulous when you add a jacket.
Shift dress: Chic, away-from-the-body silhouettes go from desk to dinner in a fashion minute. Lace, sheer insets and animal prints add the awesome. Dress up!
Shift dress: Chic, away-from-the-body silhouettes go from desk to dinner in a fashion minute. Lace, sheer insets and animal prints add the awesome. Dress up!
Layered necklaces--More is more so dare to dazzle. Group unexpected strands for a look that’s uniquely you. Let the layering begin.
Layered necklaces–More is more so dare to dazzle. Group unexpected strands for a look that’s uniquely you. Let the layering begin.
Black and white--Go graphic with spring’s coolest color combo. Check out color blocking, banding, bold stripes and prints. Feel free to mix it up.
Black and white–Go graphic with spring’s coolest color combo. Check out color blocking, banding, bold stripes and prints. Feel free to mix it up.
Ladylike handbag--Just hold it! Smaller framed satchels with a femme feel are chic and of the moment. A pop of bold color really works.
Ladylike handbag–Just hold it! Smaller framed satchels with a femme feel are chic and of the moment. A pop of bold color really works.
Chunky heels--Blocked, stacked, up high, down low! Get ready for sturdier, kinder heels that are easy on the feet and the eye--materials matter.
Chunky heels–Blocked, stacked, up high, down low! Get ready for sturdier, kinder heels that are easy on the feet and the eye–materials matter.

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Stay Fabulous,

Abby Hathorn

Kicking Off Spring Style with Belk and Arlene Goldstein

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Hello, fabulouses, and welcome back to the blog on the first day of spring! Whoo hoo!

Oh, spring has finally sprung which means it is time to go on a spring shopping haul! After the crazy, up-and-down winter weather we had, I am beyond excited to swap the big coats, chunky sweaters, and UGG boots for lightweight cardigans, flowy dresses, and sassy sandals. Now, before we go out and buy our spring wardrobe, let’s take a look at the Spring 2014 Fashion Forecast, courtesy of Arlene Goldstein, Belk’s Vice President of Trend Mechandising and Fashion Direction. (Pst…remember when the VIP interviewed Arlene?  To celebrate Throwback Thursday, let’s take a look back at the VIP interview here and learn more about the fabulous fashion expert!)

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Spring 2014 fashion is all about creating a statement style with pieces that look and feel fabulously modern with a dash of classic. Before we kick off spring shopping, let’s check the fashion weather. This season, Arlene Goldstein is predicting light showers of dazzling jewelry, wind gusts of statement shoes, and a monsoon of must-have apparel items. Fierce florals and feminine charms will be in full bloom as exotic fabrics and clean lines take fashionista closets by storm. So, let’s grab our trendy umbrellas and hit the stores fully prepared to locate the hot trends below:

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Feminine Charms

From ultra-romantic to chic eccentric with a femme flare, this [Feminine Charms] is a fashion story that delivers a dynamic aura. Expect looks to exude elegance with oversized ruffles, fit-and-flare silhouettes, appliqued petals and new, longer lengths. Heavy lace, luminescent layers and sheer fabrics easily finesse any look, and florals are flawless along with dots, swirls and pattern mixes.

Step into the limelight with add-ons that offer everything from whimsy to clever practicality. Not-so-proper pearls, floral motif jewelry, shiny gold finishes, chain bags, clutches and single-sole pumps are just a few essentials.

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Jetsetter

“As a style statement, Jetsetter always says ‘yes,’ to a tribal twist with a multi-cultural mix,” notes Goldstein. Neutrals–especially khakis and greens–need no introduction. Details of the Jetsetter trend includes both utility and handcrafted elements such as zips, pockets, studs and grommets along with ornate embellishments, tassels, fringe and frayed edges.

Jacquards, silks, sheers, linen and washed poplin are just a few of the textiles that inspire this indisputably cool glam gal. Artsy camo, lkats, new tropicals and scenics are some of the flawlessly executed patterns that add to the spirit of adventure that is so relevant to this trend. Layers of jewelry, natural leathers, burnished metals, embellished totes and new gladiators give this trend the polish and panache it definitely deserves, effortlessly chic and natural.

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Clean Slate

Clean Slate touts strong sculptural shapes and understated elegance, causing minimal chic to have maximum impact. Check out A-line silhouettes, asymmetric detailing and architectural lines, and anticipate an ultra-modern makeover with sportif touches that add an off-duty edginess.

Textiles are interesting and innovative with cheer, metallic finishes and New Age synthetics that offer sleek chic at its best. Bold patterns blaze with photorealisms, stripes, color blocking, exaggerated geos and digital designs–the simplest ideas are the best and anything graphic goes a long way.

The accessories in Clean Slate say it all. Count on items with a contemporary feel–mirror metallics, boxy shaped handbags (clutches, totes, satchels), strong cuffs and geometric pendants, multi rings, chunky heels and anything color blocked because it is strong and powerful.

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Be sure to come back tomorrow for Belk’s Most Wanted List from Arlene Golstein! Oh…I cannot wait to share it with y’all! 

Stay Fabulous,

Abby Hathorn

Closet Shopping: Vintage Hipster

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Hello there, fashionistas! Today on Shopping in Your Own Closet OR Closet Shopping [for short] I have channeled my inner vintage hipster in order to create a magnificent ensemble with my favorite pair of vintage high-waisted shorts!

With the warmer weather FINALLY HERE, I have begun to dress a little more spring-y…Oh, this Southern fashionista is LOVING the sunny fun days!

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Now, I know y’all are just dying to see what outfit I created this week by simply shopping in my own closet! Phew! What a penny-saving operation…or at least that is what my mom says…and my dad…and probably their pocketbooks…anyway! Let’s see what the VIP’s Closet Shopping ensemble is!

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Tank: American Eagle

Button-up: personal vintage collection

Shorts: personal vintage collection

Heels: Belk, Jessica Simpson

Belt: American Eagle

Earrings: Just Teasin’ Boutik & Salon-Louisville, Mississippi

Sunglasses: Target

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Ahhh! Readers! I am going to just explode over the awesome pictures we took on the photo shoot today! I really need to wait to share them with y’all…but I will give you one and only ONE sneak peek because I just cannot contain my excitement anymore! Check the Facebook page! Go! Go! Go! There, you will find the sneak peek!

Let’s connect! Email pictures to vintage.passionista@gmail.com (or post pictures to the Facebook page) of you sporting your favorite Closet Shopping outfit for a chance to be on the VIP blog and Facebook page! Come on, do NOT be shy! We are all fashion lovers here:)

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Connect with me on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube for a peek inside my life.

Facebook: www.facebook.com/vintageinspiredpassionista

Twitter: @Abbysauce_

Instagram: @VintagePassionista

YouTube: www.youtube.com/user/vintagepassionista

Check out more of my writings and photo shoot styling here:

Latest Real Media (Real Story Publishing) Article: http://thisisrealmedia.com/2013/03/27/the-adventures-of-the-vip-the-history-of-the-beloved-hat/

Town and Gown Magazine April Issue: http://issuu.com/townandgownmagazine/docs/april2013

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Stay Fabulous,

Abby Hathorn