Author: Allison Meyers

I have a thing for summer dresses. We have SO many summer commitments and dresses take most of the work out of getting ready. No need to coordinate. Just throw one on with a nude block-heeled sandal, accessorize, and go! And then do it all over again. All summer long.

As you may have noticed from my IG feed, I am an equal-opportunity-dress-buyer.  From BCBG to that incredibly inexpensive company Shein… if I love it, I try it. I also love finding timeless day-to-night dresses from stores like H&M and Zara that LOOK like they cost more than they did. I consider it a personal challenge. There are dresses that I’ve been wearing for YEARS that have never “gone out,” and that I don’t think I paid more than 30 dollars for.

Linked are some of my favorite dresses this season (and squeezing in one jumpsuit as well!) Similar to the dresses in my wardrobe, they range in price, style and silhouette. As always, the details are below the photos.

1. Nikita Dress, The Reformation
2. Dress, H&M
3. Printed Wrap-Front Midi, GAP
4. Ted Baker Sionna Ribbed Sweater Dress, Nordstrom
5. Snakeskin Print Dress, ZARA
6. Self-Tie Shirt Dress, Ralph Lauren
7. Anastasia Shirt Dress, Boden

 

 

 

1. Anthropologie Encanta Abstract Maxi Dress
2. Jadrien Knit Wrap Dress, Club Monaco
3. Printed Wrap Dress, Tory Burch
4. Belted Linen Blend Midi Dress, & Other Stories
5. Rose Bloom Maxi Dress, BCBG
6. Troubadour Jumpsuit, Anthropologie
7. Silk Maxi Sarong Paisley Dress, J.Crew

I hope you finally figured out what to wear to that __________ next week.  I know, it’s been on your mind.

XOXO,

 

 

 

 

Here we are, knee-deep in bathing suit season. Some find this a more difficult time of year than others. Here are a few tips to take some of the pain out of finding that right swimsuit for you.

1. Top it off right. Small-chested? Aim for a padded bandeau or any underwire design with gathering, ruffles, or padding. Very large-chested? Try thick straps, a dark and supportive fabric, and underwire. Your belly always looks slimmer when the chest is boosted up and out! (Very few women call pull off the totally unsupportive 80’s tank suit.  Kudos to you if you can.)
2. Get waisted.  Thick in the mid-section or have an athletic shape? Use strategic folds (ruching), wraps, belts, and even printed designs to create the appearance of a waist. Many of the higher-waist designs this summer are great for masking a postpartum-pooch.
3. Aim high. The higher-cut, the longer the appearance of the leg. On the other hand, low, boy-short designs shorten legs and look best on tall, long legged ladies.
4. Colorblock. Using colors and prints strategically on a one or two-piece can surely boost the flattery factor. Solid, dark colors help to play down and minimize problem areas, while printed, detailed or bright areas help draw attention.
5. Try, try, and try again. Take the time to find the right suit for you. Order a size lower and a size higher and expect to return. Take a huge pile into the dressing room. Sometimes a slight difference in design or size can make all the difference in the world.

Here are some of my favorite one-pieces and bikinis available this season! The variety of styles will appeal to many different body shapes. Details, as always, are linked under the collages.

ONE-PIECE SUITS

1. The Mykonos Ribbed One piece, Andies Swim
2. Santorini Swimsuit, Boden
3. One-Piece Leopard Tank Suit, Profile by Gottex
4. The Deep Dive Suit, Summersalt
5. Belted Underwire One-Piece, WhoWoreWhat at Victoria’s Secret
6. Floral Dots Tie One-Piece, Kate Spade Swim
7. The Taylor One Piece with White Trim, Solid and Striped
8. Off the Shoulder Amazonian One Piece. Trina Turk at Everything But Water

 

BIKINIS

1. Pearl Loop Strap Underwire Bikini, Tommy Bahama
2. Mosaic Sunrise Bikini, Trina Turk at Everything But Water
3. Striped Underwire Bikini, Lascana
4. Betty Cassidy Gingham Front Tie Bikini, Eberjey at Bloomingdales
5. U-Front Bandeau Bikini in Jungle Floral, J.Crew
6. Ginger Bikini, Solid and Striped at Madewell
7. Lagoon Sarong Hipster, Lilly Pulitzer
8. Enhancer Push Up Triangle Bikini, Venus

Although these tips and picks are just a starting point, there is no magic to finding that perfect suit. If you love it and feel great in it (or maybe not AS terrible), that is really all that matters.

XOXO,

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

I always enjoy sharing my outfits in my Instagram feed. You may have noticed that I often mention the store Lola Saratoga, my favorite local shop dedicated to accessories. You also may have noticed that I love to mix “highs” and “lows”, often pairing a GUCCI something with a Zara something. Well guess what… so does Lola! They carry everything from colorful statement Bauble Bar earrings, to ever-classic quilted Chanel vintage bags. So it’s no surprise that we decided to get together for a fun and fashionable project! I’m excited to share my Five Favorite Summer Looks, styled only with accessories from Lola!

(And… if you’re wondering about the amazing backdrop, it’s the gorgeous and super-cool Adelphi Gardens patio.  You MUST check it out for yourself this summer!)

GIRLS’ NIGHT OUT

Flare jeans continue to trend in and out, but they are one of my go-to items for nights out, especially with my girls. I often pair them with an off-the-shoulder top, like this boho-inspired linen design. The layered coin necklaces that I found at Lola were the PERFECT addition to the top! When exposing my shoulders, I usually choose an extra large earring, like these chunky gold hoops. This Tory Burch bucket bag was the ideal finish to the look!

 

POST-TRACK PORCH PARTY

I do LOVE me a lightweight maxi. They allow me to secretly wear my seven-inch-high-yet-still-comfortable cork wedges for track days and long nights, or when I have to be on my feet for hours.  I’ve paired this floral maxi with this detailed AND roomy Kate Spade bucket bag and fun, turquoise beaded Marinella drop earrings.

 

DATE NIGHT

If you haven’t seen LOLA’s amazing assortment of headbands, you have to stop in! From boho chic to preppy pearls, there is one for every taste. I’ve been in love with this one, and thought it would perfect for a date night! I paired it with this black and blush (and perfectly sized) Tory Burch bag and sweet Kate Spade pave cluster earrings. Those of you who know me know that I RARELY miss a date night, especially when I have a great outfit lined up!

 

SUNDAY BRUNCH

Any time I’m out with the kids for brunch, shopping, or dinner, comfort is KEY. This “look”, including comfortable wedges, a cotton midi skirt and basic tank has become a summer 2019 UNIFORM! I like to keep it interesting by stacking bracelets and a watch, like this Tory Burch wrap bracelet, messaged bangles, and tortoise Apple Watch band. I feel that every summer wardrobe should include big, tortoise hoops like these (they go with just about everything)! This adorable Tory Burch linen bag perfectly completes the outfit and the crossbody keeps my hands free for managing the crayons and cheerios that often accompany the four little monsters.

 

WORKING LUNCH

Heading to a summertime lunch meeting or networking event?  Keeping it simple and classic allows people to focus on YOU.  What better way to do this than with a great fitting basic black sheath dress and FABULOUS accessories.  If you haven’t yet visited Lola’s vintage designer case (showcasing Chanel, GUCCI, LV and more), you MUST. Inventory continuously changes with availability of new vintage pieces, and my favorites have included button earrings, coin bracelets and necklaces, and an awesome variety of vintage Chanel handbags.

 

I hope that I’ve given you a few ideas of what to wear to your next summer gathering, and LOTS of reasons to stop by the amazing Lola Saratoga!  Enjoy the sunshine, but please look fabulous while you do so.

XOXO,

Now, onto the single item that I’ve been mad for for a year now. THE MIDI SKIRT.

This spring, you’ll see skirts with pleats, paper bag waists, wraps, belted circle silhouettes, animal prints, a-lines, and lots of buttons. One thing most have in common: the “midi” hemline. I consider a “midi” hemline anything that falls below the knee and above the ankle. But I must admit, this length is sometimes a bit tricky.

I almost always wear my midis with a skin-toned slide. Add a heel or wedge and you boost the flattery factor three-fold. Because I’m 5’3″, I usually order the petite version if it’s available. For my fashionistas with thick legs (I really don’t know what other way to describe this challenge some of us have), aim for a hemline just below the knee. This is especially flattering when pairing your skirt with sneaks.

The hottest look of the season is the flowy midi in a leopard or snakeskin print. It can be worn SO MANY ways! I’ve included one in the nine great skirts that I’d love in my wardrobe, shown here. As always, the links to the nine skirts shown are below the photo. Immediately following the links, I’ve also included three ways to wear this midi, or almost any midi that you may have in YOUR wardrobe!

1. Aritzia Leopard Button Down 
2. GAP Slub Tie Waist Skirt
3. Boden Melina Paper Bag Skirt
4. ZARA Pleated Skirt
5. Corey Lynn Calter (Anthropologie) Giraffe A-line
6. Ann Taylor Tie Waist Midi Wrap
7. Banana Republic Snakeskin Pleated Skirt
8. Topshop (Nordstrom) Button Ribbed Midi
9. J.Crew Pencil Skirt in Stretch Denim

Now that we have three CUTE outfit options, maybe the sun will stay out long enough for us to bare our ankles without freezing to death here in upstate NY! It’s June 17 and people are still wearing puffy coats. Hey Mother Nature, I can speak for everyone around here when I say we’re officially ready for sandal (and midi) weather.

XOXO,

 

Take that minimalist vibe you felt in my “WEARABLE Spring Trends: Naturals” post.  Add some military details, feminine designs and flowy fabrics, and there you have it.  Modern Utility.

No matter what season or year, I always have use for a great utility jacket.  I also consider army green a basic neutral, taking up plenty of real-estate in my personal wardrobe.  From minis to midis, accessories to basics, there are so many great military-inspired classics available this spring. The comfortable fabrics and roomy designs are the icing on the cake. Here are just a few of my faves, with links to items below the photo:

 LOFT Drapey Utility Jumpsuit

Ted Baker London Shorts

AQUA (Bloomingdales) Camo Joggers 

Theory Modern Utility Stretch Chino Dress

Kempton & Co. Bag Collection, Made of Up-cycled Vintage Textiles, Encounter Boutique

TOPSHOP (Nordstrom) Midi Shirt Dress

&OtherStories Oversized Worker Jacket

Target Utility Mini Skirt

Lou&Grey Tie Waist Linen Pants

I don’t know a woman who isn’t amazing at multi-tasking.  Why shouldn’t our clothes be?

XOXO,

So here we are.  It’s officially mid-May, and much of upstate New York is still in Bean boots and puffer jackets every other day. I’m sure you cannot even think about anything resembling resort wear, but I promise you that our warm weather is just around the corner. Today’s trend highlights all of the amazing pieces that scream sunshine and tropical vacations and that are ready and available to help us transition into summer.

From tropical flowers to palms and banana leaves, there are too many fun prints to count this season that will transform you instantly into an Island Goddess. Below are just some of my favorite finds that get me SUPER excited for those warm weather months! As always, below the photo are the links for order information for each item.

ZARA Tropical Print Off-the-Shoulder Dress

MANGO Bamboo Round Bag

BCBG (Everything But the Water) Halter Bikini

Pura Vida (Lulu’s) High-Low Button Up Dress

ZARA Printed Headband

H&M Draped Wrap-Front Skirt

Elizabeth Volk Emerald Palm Earrings

Hobbs London (Bloomingdales) Halle Palm Linen Top

Tommy Bahama Breezy Palm Bandeau

REVOLVE Black Palm Pant

Because you know how it works.  We’ll have a frost tonight, and then wake up to 80 degree days through mid-September.  Be prepared.

XOXO,

Last week I showcased some bold rainbow brights that have hit the stores.  This week, we’re taking a walk to the other side, and focusing on “Naturals”, the next trend of my Spring Trend Series.

I gladly welcome the nature that spring brings, including all of the woven fabrics, wood, rattan, and linen that make their debut.  I also love all the brown and tan tones that come with these materials.  Here are a just a few of my favorite “nature-inspired” finds, including some STEALS!.  As always, links to pricing and color options are below the photo.

REISS Eleni Caramel Knitted Body Con Dress

TOMS Bellini Champagne Crystal Sunglasses

Gucci Ophedia Straw Shoulder Bag

Michael Kors Jill Leather Wedge Sandal

Forever 21 Etched Wooden Bracelet

JCrew Sweater Tank

MANGO Braided Wood Belt

Caroline & Main Rattan Hoop Earrings, $20 (Local Find!)

Superga (Anthropologie) Crocodile Embossed Sneakers

Zara Wood Crossbody Bag

Sam Edelman (Bloomingdales) Falcon 2 Woven Flats

Caslon (Nordstrom) Linen Pants

It’s never been so easy to go “au naturale.”  Give it a try!

XOXO,

Several years ago, these things called jumpsuits hit the style scene, and I’ve been a fan since. Really? A grown adult in a onesie? But only those tiny teenage girls can pull them off, right? ABSOLUTELY NOT! Fortunately, brands have been expanding their now stand- alone jumpsuit section to include something for all shapes, styles and occasions.

However… some are easier to wear than others. Here are a few things to remember when choosing a jumpsuit.  Fabrics with a bit of stretch give you a greater chance of finding a perfect fit off-the-rack. A straight or wide leg, hemmed to the floor, gives you your longest, leanest look. When choosing a cropped design, avoid super-wide legs or stiff fabrics. More casual jumpsuits and boiler suits can be worn a bit roomier and still look great.

There are truly jumpsuits for every occasion. Whether you’re looking for a more formal option for a wedding or simply one to bounce around town in… the options are endless. Below are my absolute favorite jumpsuits available right now, with many super-flattering designs. Hopefully my picks can help take some of the work out of finding the right one for you. As always, click links below pics for details about the jumpsuit.

DAYTIME

1. Boden Tillie Jumpsuit
2. Madewell Denim Slim Coverall Jumpsuit
3. ZARA Gathered Jumpsuit with Straps
4. GAP Cap Sleeve V-Neck Linen Jumpsuit
5. MANGO Long Linen Blend Red Jumpsuit
6. Lucky Striped Boilersuit
7. Banana Republic Linen-Blend Button Up Jumpsuit
8. LandsEnd Denim Jumpsuit
9. Express Button-Front Utility Jumpsuit

NIGHT OUT

1. The Reformation Camille Jumpsuit
2. Lilly Pulitzer Janelle Embellished Jumpsuit or available locally at The Pink Paddock
3. DVF Terria Silk Jersey Wrap Jumpsuit
4. RACHEL Rachel Roy (Macy’s) Tie Front Wrap Jumpsuit
5. Trina Turk Antilla Jumpsuit, available locally at The Pink Paddock
6. BCBG (Bloomingdales) One-Shoulder Ruffle Jumpsuit
7. MANGO Leaf Jumpsuit
8. ZARA Red Pleated Jumpsuit

I may have made it easier to choose a jumpsuit, but as for learning how to go to the bathroom in it… well, you’re on your own. Practice makes perfect. Let’s leave it at that.

XOXO,

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

This was taken straight from my blog post 15 Style Tips That Every Girl Should Know. Now that that the ground is almost thawed, I thought it was time to talk about jackets… my favorite “in-between seasons” piece! Sure, jackets provide a layer of warmth, but what I personally love is the extra coverage they give us. Choose longer designs for some thigh and butt coverage, or more structured or cinched designs to conceal a belly and create the illusion of a waist.

Below I’ve featured my five favorite styles for spring : utility, trench, denim, moto, and blazer, and five great finds within each. As always, be sure to click on the links for pricing and to check out the color options and washes available!

 

1. J.Crew Perfect Rain Jacket
2. GAP Garment-dyed Utility Jacket
3. AERO Camo Twill Jacket
4. BB Dakota Belted Hooded Jacket
5. EVERLANE Modern Utility Jacket

 

1. J.Crew Leopard Trench
2. BR Maxi Trench
3. Ted Baker London Plaid Trench
4. Badgley Mischka (Nordstrom) Faux Leather Trim Trench
5. H&M Checked Trench

 

1. Levi’s (Anthropologie) Ex-Boyfriend Denim Trucker Jacket
2.  Madewell “The Jean Jacket”
3. Levi’s (Urban Outfitters) Slouchy Trucker Jacket
4. ZARA Denim Jacket
5. TARGET Universal Thread Oversized Denim Jacket

 

1. BLANKNYC (Bloomingdales) Suede Moto Jacket
2. H&M Biker Jacket
3. ALLSAINTS Suede Dalby Biker Jacket
4. Liverpool Jeans Cotton Stretch MOTO Jacket 
5. BB Dakota (ASOS) Faux Leather Jacket

 

1. 1901 (Nordstrom) Double Breasted Blazer
2. ZARA Tweed Jacket
3. J.Crew Parke Blazer in Gingham
4. MANGO Tortoiseshell Buttons Jacket
5. EVERLANE Cotton Linen Blazer

Whether you’d describe yourself as classic or bohemian, the styles above truly cover the spectrum.  Hopefully you found a little something that will help you look your best for the unpredictability of spring in the Northeast.

XOXO,