Cashmere Closets and a Giveaway

Hey ladies (and gentleman)! I’m excited to finally tell you about my latest pet project. Since my last post I’ve been busy working on a consignment business with my mom. I LOVE consignment, it’s such a great way to score nice clothing and designer brands for a cheap price. The last time I went to a consignment shop I got an Alexander Wang tee for about $20. I’d never pay full price for a designer t-shirt but $20 was doable and I love it (it’s neutral and edgy at the same time) and I wear it all the time. One of my all-time favorite consignment store finds was a gorgeous burgundy wrap coat that I scored for about 1/3 of the retail price. I can’t wait to pull it out again in the fall.

Since my Mom and I both love consignment stores (and we had a lot of clothing to get rid of in order to streamline our capsule wardrobes a la “Lessons from Madame Chic”) we decided to start a business that would make consigning accessible and fun. Our business is called Cashmere Closets, and it functions in 2 ways: we have seasonal consignment parties where people can consign clothing and accessories and also shop while they sip wine and eat yummy snacks. We also have an online store now- check it out here. The online store contains a lot of new items that we just got in (including some designer items) and everything has been checked for quality. We’ll be adding more items as well.  In honor of a grand opening that we had recently, we’re also offering 15% off using code Grandopening at checkout and a giveaway for a $25 gift certificate to the online store. The giveaway is open to everyone in the US and internationally (we ship internationally) and the gift certificate can be used towards any item on the site . Check it out here and enter now 🙂  You can also follow Cashmere Closets on facebook here.

 

Thanks for reading and look out for my next post!

 

The Capsule Wardrobe Based on USA’s Suits

In my last post I talked about one of my favorite fashion and lifestyle books- Lessons from Madame Chic, and how that book inspired me to really edit my wardrobe down to a few key flattering pieces. Now I completely subscribe to the idea that less is more, and having a capsule wardrobe of nice pieces can simplify your life and help you make better fashion choices.

I’ve been watching the new episodes of Suits and I promised one of my readers a post about how to dress like Jessica and Donna (check out the post on how to dress like Rachel here.) Jessica and Donna both have amazing wardrobes and favor flattering sheath dresses with strong details. Jessica also wears skirt suits with dramatic details like plunging backs, ruching, and peplum silhouettes. But in the spirit of my new wardrobe philosophy, I thought it would be fun to put together a capsule wardrobe based on Suits style. This capsule wardrobe of simple and pretty pieces lets you mix and match to come up with classic looks for the office. This is perfect for someone who works in a business environment and needs a more formal capsule wardrobe for work. I didn’t include any pants because Jessica and Donna love dresses and skirts, but you could easily add or substitute pants in neutral colors. Click on the pictures to shop.

The Capsule Wardrobe

• 2-3 sheath dresses
• grey pencil skirt
• tan pencil skirt
• black pencil skirt
• 2-3 blouses
• white button down shirt
• 2 blazers that match the pencil skirts
• 2 sweaters

The Sheath Dresses

   

Donna is mostly featured in sheath dresses and both she and Jessica wear dresses that are very feminine and figure flattering. A fitted sheath like the three above shows off your curves while still remaining work appropriate. Just make sure you choose the right size so that you your dress is flattering but not tight.  Neutrals like the first two above are great for a capsule wardrobe because they make it easy to switch things up with jewelry, belts, and blazers. But also go for a fun, flattering print like the print on the third dress. A bonus is that these dresses also transition from work to happy hour well- just switch out your classic pumps for a more daring heel, add lipstick and a clutch.

The pencil skirt

    

Pencil skirts are a feminine work staple that you see a lot of on Suits. Choosing skirts in neutral shades like black, tan, and gray makes it easy to mix and match with your blouses and sweaters. The above skirts look great on their own with a blouse or pair well with suit blazers for a full skirt suit look.

The Blouses

       

A soft feminine blouse pairs well with a structured pant or pencil skirt. Choosing a blouse in a bold shade, a soft neutral, and a print gives you lots of mix and match options.

The Button Down Shirt

The white button down should be a staple in every woman’s wardrobe. You can never go wrong with a white button down and a skirt or pants because the look is timeless and effortless. A white button down also layers well. Because you’ll get so much wear out of this item, really go for quality.

The Blazers

           

Achieve Jessica’s powerful suit looks while maintaining the versatility of a capsule wardrobe by choosing blazers in neutrals that can be paired with your pencil skirts.

The Sweaters

      

The women on Suits don’t just stick to traditional blouses. You’ll also see Rachel pairing her pencil skirts with lightweight v-neck sweaters. This is a great look for a capsule wardrobe because you can also use these sweaters for casual looks. Rich colors like royal blue and green, as well as soft pastels look great with neutrals.

The Extras

                                                                       

According to Madame Chic, shoes, accessories, and jackets are “extras” outside of your capsule wardrobe. If you want to achieve Donna and Jessica’s style, you’ll need to invest in a great pair of classic pumps. Black leather and neutral patent leather heels are versatile staples.

The women on Suits also favor delicate jewelry but occasionally you’ll see Jessica in a chunky statement necklace like the pearl necklace above. A structured bag is perfect for the office. Go for cool details or a pop of color to add interest and polish to your ensemble.

If you want to add extra jackets and blazers, channel Jessica and go for fun details like a peplum silhouette.

Keep up with Suits and let me know what you think of the fashion 🙂

Until Next Post,

The Book that Changed my Wardrobe Forever

Hey Readers,

I apologize for the long break between posts this time- I’ve been focused on trying to make some big changes in my life : ) Thanks for continuing to read. I knew that as soon as I could write another post I wanted to focus on one of my new favorite fashion and lifestyle books. I seriously think every woman (but especially those who are trying to refine or refocus their personal style) should read this. The book is Lessons from Madame Chic by Jennifer Scott. My mom actually gave me a copy of this book and if you’ve had a chance to read it already I’m sure you can agree it’s a great read. Jennifer completely changed the way I thought about my own wardrobe.

My experience with the french lifestyle doesn’t go beyond a few years of college french but I admire all things french-chic. Jennifer (who’s now a stay at home mom and writer in California)  gives an entertaining account of studying abroad in Paris, and the fashion and lifestyle tips she gained from her hosts. One of the biggest fashion lessons she learned was to downsize her wardrobe considerably, and only keep a few high-quality pieces each season. She calls it her 10 item wardrobe. If your closet is currently stuffed to the brim 10 items might sound impossible but less really is more in this case. As crazy as it might sound, a small capsule wardrobe consisting of nothing but nice, interchangeable items each season can actually inspire you to make better fashion choices. I tried it and it’s been great so far. You don’t have to stick to exactly 10 but a few nice blouses, pants, jeans, and a couple of dresses and skirts are all you need hanging in your closet to be a chic fashionista. Here are videos of Jennifer’s 10 item wardrobes for fall and spring. She makes it easier by counting items that you might need more of (like t-shirts, jackets, shoes, and special occasion wear) as extras that are not included in the capsule wardrobe. 

The key to really accomplishing this is thinking about quality and fit. Is it a well made item that will last? Is it flattering? Does it fit into your wardrobe and work with other pieces? Because I’m in my mid twenties now I feel past the age that I can walk into Forever 21 and build a wardrobe with trendy items. Too many trends don’t work with my lifestyle anymore, and I just don’t have the time to stand in my closet thinking about how to work with a bunch of mismatched pieces. A classic capsule wardrobe works really well for me. I keep things fun and switch it up with my accessories- statement necklaces (I’m on the hunt for more of those), my favorite leather jacket, wayfarer sunglasses, scarves etc. And even though you might spend more money on a nice classic piece than a trendy piece, over time you’re spending much less money because you won’t feel the constant need to shop.

I’ve cleaned out my closet many times in the past, but after reading Lessons from Madame Chic I really downsized for the first time. I thought to myself if I had to present my entire wardrobe to an audience which items would I be proud of? Which items would I have to make excuses for? Then I got rid of everything that didn’t work with other pieces or that I didn’t feel was worthy of my capsule wardrobe. There are still some things I want to buy, but I know exactly what I need and don’t need and I’m happier with my wardrobe now than I’ve ever been. In the morning I don’t have to think hard about what to wear, I know exactly what my options are and I know they’ll be flattering on me. There’s so much freedom in that.

Until Next Post,

P.S.- Check out Jennifer’s Blog- The Daily Connoisseur here.

P.P.S.- Here are some things to look out for coming up soon- a post on the specific items in my capsule wardrobe, posts on the women from Suits (I believe it comes back on in just a few days!) and a new reader giveaway.

In Between Sizes: How to Dress while Losing Weight in the New Year

One of the most popular New Year’s Resolutions has always been to lose weight. While we should be thinking about good nutrition and exercise year round, there’s nothing wrong with using the New Year as a jumping off point for some changes to develop a healthier lifestyle. We all have different body types, it’s important to figure out your particular needs before embarking on a weight loss program. Your goal should be to feel beautiful, happy, and healthy no matter what your clothing size is.

If you plan to lose 5 pounds or less, you don’t really need to invest in new clothing if you already have quality pieces in your wardrobe. At 5 pounds or less you’ll notice that your clothes generally just fit better, and in some cases will require minimal alternations. Finding an inexpensive tailor in your area will help your clothes really show off your figure.

 

If you plan to lose more than 5 pounds, DON’T walk around in clothes that don’t fit until you meet your final weight loss goals. Instead buy inexpensive tops and jeans to fit you as you need them. Shop at stores like H&M, Uniqlo, Old Navy, TJ Maxx, Ross, and Marshalls for great deals on basics like jeans and tops.

(Uniqlo Top– $12.90, H&M Jeans– $39.95, Old Navy Top– $10.50)

Buy slightly more expensive pieces like trousers and have them taken in by a tailor as needed for work or business casual events. Wrap dresses and A-line skirts are also great items to invest in. A wrap dress is flattering on every body type and can be adjusted easily.

 (The Limited Pants– $79.95, Loft Skirt– $69.50, Old Navy Dress– $32.94)

Once you finally meet your weight loss goals consider which of your midlevel or expensive items can simply be adjusted at a tailor. The rest should be replaced; choose investment items that you can mix and match to create a capsule wardrobe. Have fun showing off the new you!

 

Until Next Post,

Stylish Gifts for Him Under $50

Sunday’s Post featured stylish gifts for women under $50. Shopping for guys can be pretty tough. If you still need gift inspiration here are some of my favorite stylish gifts for men under $50, click to shop:

Banana Republic Plaid Scarf $49.50

The North Face eTip Gloves $45

HOW TO BE A MAN: A GUIDE TO STYLE AND BEHAVIOR FOR THE MODERN GENTLEMAN, BY GLENN O’BRIEN $28

Brass Tie Bar (3-Pack) $45

Urban Outfitters Kill City Mesh Jersey Crew $49

Clinique ‘Great Skin for Him’ Set $47.50

Timex Striped Band Weekender Watch $45.00

Acqua di Giò pour Homme Eau de Toilette $40

BDG Colorblock Winterlight Pullover Hoodie Sweatshirt
$39.00

Moshi ‘Tech iGlaze’ iPhone 5 Case $40

UO Darling Smoking Slipper
$29.00

 

Los Pollos Hermanos Tee
$24.00

TOMS ‘Classic’ Canvas Slip-On $47.95

A Scene In Between: Fashion And Independent Music In The UK 1983-89 By Sam Knee
$24.95

Urban Outfitters Lumberjack Cocktail Shaker
$28.00

Nordstrom Woven Silk Tie $49.50

Urban Outfitters Loose Weave Rugby Scarf
$29.00

Billy Jealousy ‘Beard Envy’ Kit $25

Spitfire Lovejoy Square Sunglasses
$39.00

 

Jack & Jones 2 Trunks 2 Socks Gift Set $23.59

John Varvatos Men’s Fragrance Collection Coffret $45

Jeepers Peepers Vincent Clear Lens Wayfarer Glasses $32.67

Perry Ellis Portfolio Gift Set, Cufflinks & Tie Clip $21.99

The Moustache Growers Guide Book
$10.87

Icons Of Men’s Style Book
$36.21

Gentleman’s Hardware Shoe Shine Kit
$27.13

 

Happy Holidays!

Until next post,

Stylish Gifts for Her Under $50

Christmas is now just 10 days away. If you still need holiday gift ideas for your mom, sister, friend, wife/girlfriend, coworker etc, here are some of my fave jewelry, clothing, beauty products, and books under $50. Click to shop.

Loft Short Gunmetal and Pink Stone Necklace $39.50

Loft Pearlized Gem Embellished Hat $34.50

Zara Long Wraparound Scarf $35.90

J.Crew Etched Enamel Bangle $39.50

Zara Double Breasted Jacket with Bow $25.90

Ann Taylor Teardrop Dangle Necklace $49.50

J.Crew Crystal Button Earrings $35

Pinch Provisions for J.Crew Minimergency Kit $24

Ann Taylor Brooch Watchband Bracelet $39.50

J.Crew Lodge Mocassins $49.50

Warehouse 50’s Style Frame Clutch Bag $47.19

Iconic Seize The Day ‘My 100 Stories Are Now Beginning’ Note Book $32.67

Ruche Julianne Embellished Tank $38.99

Happy Jackson Lunch Box Healthy Snacks $10.89

Made in Chelsea: Life and Style Essentials Book $27.21

Style Me Vintage: Hair $15.99

Urban Decay Naked Basics $27

Real Techniques Core Collection $17.99

What Did I Buy Today? $12.99

Essie Winter 2013 Nail Polish Cube Collection $17

Smashbox Try It Kit $19

Stila Masterpiece Series Eye & Cheek Palettes Collection $39

Urban Decay Black Market 24/7 Glide-On Pencil Set $24

Urban Outfitters Deepa Gurnani Gold Statement Headwrap
$48.00

Philosophy The Cookie Exchange Set $24

 

Look out for more Stylish Gifts for Him shortly!

Until next post,

What to Wear: Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving is just around the corner. If you’re going to a fancy dinner I would stick with a cocktail dress (the Loft has some great options under $100 right now)  but if Thanksgiving will be a fairly relaxed affair with family and friends here are 2 simple and stylish looks for the holiday. 

Look 1

For a relaxed dinner with family or friends you want to be comfortable yet chic. For a dressy casual look I would go with a sweater dress, tights, high heel boots, and a statement necklace. The sweater dress will keep you pretty comfortable but it’ll look glam when paired with the boots and statement necklace.

Thanksgiving Look 1 by lawbooksandlipstick featuring a plum lipstick

American Eagle Outfitters panel dress
ae.com

LOFT genuine leather boots
loft.com

Zara tote
zara.com

Ann Taylor floral jewelry
anntaylor.com

Tom Ford plum lipstick
bergdorfgoodman.com

 

Look 2

For a really casual affair jeans are okay, but pair them with a soft sweater and keep the statement necklace or a pair of statement earrings for just a touch of glam. Finish the look with a pair of comfortable flat boots.

 

Thanksgiving Look 2 by lawbooksandlipstick featuring skinny jeans

BDG crew neck sweater
urbanoutfitters.com

LOFT skinny jeans
loft.com

Audrey Brooke wide calf boots
dsw.com

ASOS crossbody purse
asos.com

Stella Dot indian jewelry
stelladot.com

Bare Escentuals lipstick
beauty.com

 

Bonus for the Hostess

If you’re hosting this year you can look just as chic while you’re cooking and making last minute preparations with a stylish apron like these adorable Anthropologie aprons

 

 

Anthropologie Aprons by lawbooksandlipstick featuring a cotton apron

Cotton apron
anthropologie.com

Cotton apron
anthropologie.com

Cotton apron
anthropologie.com

Cotton apron
anthropologie.com

Cotton apron
anthropologie.com

 

Have a Happy Thanksgiving!

Until Next Post,

How to Dress Like Rachel Zane from Suits

I love Suits for it’s amazing work fashion. Every character has an amazing sense of style and a covetable work wardrobe. Like I’ve said before, no matter what your profession there’s lots of great fashion inspiration on Suits for work. Rachel Zane (Meghan Markle) is  a paralegal on the show Suits who befriends and then dates the show’s protagonist, Mike Ross. She has plans to eventually become a lawyer at her firm, and wants to do so without the help of her father who is a famous trial attorney. I would describe Rachel’s style as sexy office chic. Women who work in conservative offices probably couldn’t get away with some of the tops that she wears. However anyone can take inspiration from the way that she mixes classic pieces and adds a more youthful edge to them.  Here’s how to dress like Rachel Zane:

Combine V-Neck Shirts and Sweaters with Pencil Skirts

This is Rachel’s go to office look.  Her  tops pair well with her classic pencil skirts and pumps but the v-neck silhouette gives her outfits a sexier, less conservative vibe. The women in Suits can get away with a lot. In real life this is a great combo for a business casual office  as long as the neckline isn’t too low, and your skirt is not too form fitting.

Express Elbow Sleeve Wrap Top $34.90

Victoria’s Secret Basic Pencil Skirt $59.50

Wear Classic Button Down Shirts with Rolled Sleeves 

A button down and pencil skirt will always be a timeless, professional office look. Rachel looks classic but stylish by rolling up her sleeves and letting the edges poke up just a bit.

Brooks Brothers Non-Iron Tailored Fit Dress Shirt $98.50

Wear Shift Dresses with Interesting Details

When Rachel’s not rocking a pencil skirt in the office she occasionally has on an amazing shift dress. These dresses are effortlessly chic and sophisticated.

Ann Taylor Twist Shoulder Jersey Shift Dress $79.99

ModCloth Luxe Allure Dress $74.99

Wear Classic Jewelry and Layer Two Delicate Necklaces

Rachel wears classic jewelry like delicate necklaces and a silver watch. Her layered necklaces are fun and stylish, but still professional enough for an office.

West Avenue Jewelry Monogram Disk Necklace $105

Stella & Dot Maya Pendant $39

Plus size ladies here are a few more items inspired by Rachel’s style:

 

Halogen Cashmere Sweater $89

Jones New York Collection Pencil Skirt $74

Lauren by Ralph Lauren Carter Long Sleeve Button Down Shirt $75

Asos Curve Exclusive Workwear Dress With Metal Bar $71.19

 

Until Next Post,

Listen at Work: Yuna- Nocturnal

Listening to music at work really helps me get through the boring and stressful parts of the day, but it can be a challenge sometimes to find new music that’s interesting but work appropriate. Albums featured in this category will be upbeat enough to keep you energized but just mellow enough for an office, and cool but with work appropriate lyrics of course. These featured albums will also be perfect for late night study sessions if you’re a student. Today’s music recommendation is Nocturnal by Yuna. 

Artist: Yuna

Genre: Pop/ R&B/ Acoustic Folk

Track to Sample: “Falling”

Fun Fact: Yuna has a law degree.

Yuna is a Malaysian artist who gained  mainstream success with her self titled album in 2012. The album featured hits like “Live Your Life” (produced by Pharrell Williams) and The New York Times described her music as “Gorgeous”.

I definitely have to agree with that description on Yuna’s new album Nocturnal. The blend of pop, acoustic folk, and r&b is catchy, and her songs are frankly..happy. But her cool, melodic voice prevents happy from venturing into the world of cheesy and there are several singles you’ll want to hear again and again.

You can check out this album on iTunes or purchase it at Bestbuy or Amazon.

Until Next Post,

A Law Books and Lipstick Update

It’s a been a lot of fun writing this blog and I’m at a point where I’d really like to expand some of the content. Law Books and Lipstick will be making some changes to transition into more of a lifestyle blog for professional (and aspiring professional) women and students. Look out for new posts on weekdays including quick and tasty dinner recipes for busy women on the go, albums to listen to at work, and happy hour hot spots to try if you’re in the DC area. Look out for more fashion and beauty posts on the weekends, and cool giveaways. And as always feel free to comment or email me with questions or suggestions.

Thanks for reading!