summer accessorizing staple :: the lightweight vest

It's summer. It's HOT. So, many of you would prefer not to accessorize your maxi or tank with a cardigan or blazer because it might be drenched within the first 30 seconds of stepping outside. We get it! There is still a way to add a little something to your look, without adding weight and heat. "What could it be?" you ask? Answer :: the lightweight vest. I love this army green shade because it's what I call a "colored neutral," acting as a neutral but providing a colored tone.

Throw your vest on over a maxi, a top, or a sundress for a little extra "something."

I paired this Banana Republic Outlet maxi dress {available in stores} with my canvas drawstring vest from Old Navy ::

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Pair your maxi with a wedge or flat sandal, depending on the occasion

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Here are a few moreย lightweight summer vest options ::

Halogen Utility Vest, Nordstrom

Ambition Military Vest, Nordstrom

The denim vest works as well!

1969 Denim Vest, GAP

And now it's time to announce the winners of the 7 For All Mankind 30% off cards! Congratulations to ::

Sarah Pociask

Alex Higgins

A Lovely Nest

Ladies, simply email your address to courtney@lifestyledatlanta.com so I can get these in the mail to you. Thank you to those who participated!

courtney

 

the jumpsuit

It's warm and sunny! We've been showered out, and the sun is shining. The best thing about warm weather is how you can dress for it! Today I'm talking about a major spring trend that has made its way into the fashion world :: The Jumpsuit/Jumper; an easy & effortless yet chic look that can be transitioned from day into night, dressed up andย dressed down.

Here are a couple tips to go buy when looking for a jumper ::

1) If you have a curvier figure, you may want to try a wider leg. A tapered or tracksuit type leg will typically accentuate your hip and thigh area. This is not a rule, just a suggestion!

2) If you are tall and skinny, not only do I hate you {just kidding!...kind of} but you can wear virtually any jumper style. Try a tapered, skinny leg or wide-leg.

3) You can never go wrong with black. It's slimming, classic and timeless.

4) A sweetheart top / halter top is universally-flattering. If you are having trouble finding a top style that works on you, try one of these.

5) Look for a jumpsuit that accentuates your waist; whether it ties, belts, or has an elastic waist-band. This is the most flattering cut on any figure.

A few of my favorites ::

classic black, tapered leg.

wide-leg, blush crepe jumpsuit by Dorothy Perkins

pretty patterns on this strapless number with a tie waist, from Loft

cobalt halter, ASOS.com

casual beach chic from Loft

I love throwing on a jumpsuit or romper when I'm not in the mood to overthink my outfit choice. It allows you to look polished, stylish and chic without having to think about both a top AND bottom. So try one this summer; I promise that if you find the right one, you'll be hooked!

Stylishly Yours,

courtney

mary's revamp :: part two

Today we're taking you through part two of Mary's Wardrobe Revamp. For those of you who missed part oneย or need a refresher, you can read about Mary and her story here. After a major overhaul in her closet, we hit the stores! We started at Nordstrom and finished at LOFT, finding some great versatile sale pieces at both places, along with some wardrobe staples that Mary was in desperate need of. We accomplished a LOT in the two hours we spent shopping, and Mary left with a new wardrobe and a new outlook. I thought I would document this journey with a few photos, so enjoy!

Here she is modeling a few outfits. How adorable is she?!

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Here are just some of Mary's many outfits that we were able to create using the pieces weย bought ::

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We were able to get everything on Mary's list and stay within her budget ::

  • ย white jeans
  • dark wash jeans
  • peplum top
  • statement necklaces
  • black crop pant
  • colored crop pant
  • two dresses
  • two skirts
  • nude wedge
  • tan sandal
  • cardigans for when she does not want to show herย arms in sleeveless tops or dresses
  • lightweight sweaters

All in all, it was a huge success and Mary was thrilled!

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We loved having Mary's daughter-in-law, Jenna, along for the fun!

And a text I received from Mary's husband this morning {if you'll remember, Mary's husband, Craig, purchased this revamp for her for her birthday}ย This it the kind of feedback that makes me love my job even more :: mary text

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Many of you can relate to Mary's story. She gave and gave to her children, her husband and her job, and in turn neglected herself for a long while! This was much-deserved, and it was such a privilege to work with her and watch this transformation. LIFEstyled services truly are about having a new outlook, attitude &ย confidence, which Mary exuded after this process.

If you or someone you know would benefit from LIFEstyled's services, you are in luck! Check out our Mother's Day Special for an exclusive discount.

Wishing you a happy Wednesday!

Courtney