Spring Break Essentials

Spring break is quickly approaching.  Everyone needs a break--just a chance to get away.  Whether you have kids that will be out of school or whether you just need an escape, here are a few necessities that will guarantee your trip will be a success no matter the destination.

In Order from Left to Right and Top to Bottom

Fujifilm Instax Mini 8 Camera | Merona Women's Scarf | Block Heel Sandals | Madewell "The Transport" Leather Tote | "Whatever Is Lovely" Inspirational Coloring Book

Capture all those memories the retro way with the Fujifilm Instax Mini 8 Camera and send them immediately to print. Whether you choose to scrapbook those lovely memories are post them around the house they will take you back to all those relaxing, fun experiences.

Sometimes spring break weather can be a little more like winter break especially in the mornings or nights.  Layer up with this Merona Women's Scarf from Target.  I'm really love the bright colors.

With all the sight seeing to be done your feet can really take a beating, but no need to sacrifice style for comfort.  Block Heel Sandals are both comfortable and on trend.  Plus, these styles from Nordstrom provide an extra bang for your buck with free shipping and free returns everyday.

Visit little, old shops?  Pick up the Madewell "The Transport" Leather Tote to stow all those one of a kind finds.  Nothing scream minimalism more than Madewell.  Oh, and you can pick up this tote from Nordstrom.  Free shipping?  Anyone?

Rest and relaxation have a way of bringing creativity to life.  But let's face it.  Sometimes life doesn't offer us those little retreats.  That's fine too.  Foster your own creativity with the "Whatever Is Lovely" Inspirational Coloring Book from DaySpring. 

Wherever you find yourself this Spring Break I hope that is rest for your soul.  I'm planning on going to Dallas, Texas, for a few days with my sisters and cousin.  Personally, I can't wait.  What about you?  Headed anywhere special?

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Fall Fashion in Paris

Whenever I'm traveling I find that it is so much easier to pack when I have a plan and by plan I mean color scheme or theme.  My sisters, Dalayna, Destiny and Courtney, often laugh at me, but I happen to think if they'd only follow my lead their lives would so much simpler.  Well, at least when it comes to packing.

Here are a few general principles to follow with packing for a long trip...

1.  Start with a firm foundation.
     Choose a few basic clothing items that you can wear multiple times and with multiple other items.  For example, you can never go wrong with classic black pants.
2.  Add is a color or pattern.
     By adding a simple, classic color or pattern you will liven up your wardrobe choices.  At the same time remember to keep it simple.  We want clothing items to be able to be worn more than one time with more than one other clothing item.
3.  Stick to the plan.
     There's always going to be that temptation to take that extra pair of shoes or evening bag, but leave them behind.  If those items aren't interchangeable with multiple items in your bag, you don't need them.

I'm super excited to be traveling to Paris this week.  Obviously!  Here is a look at my packing plan.

Fall Fashion in Paris by danette-dillon featuring leather handbags

This is my first time traveling in Europe so wish me luck!  

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Fashion that Inspires

Last week I found myself perusing through Netflix to find a movie.  I stumbled across an old classic.  The fashion of this movie completely inspired me, so obviously I wanted to share it. Maybe you'll find yourself equally inspired.

The designs for this movie were designed by none other than William Travilla.  I believe his designs can best be described as stunning.

Here are a few pieces I found similar to the original designs.  I love them too.

How to Marry a Millionaire by danette-dillon featuring lanvin

Yellow cocktail dress / Oscar de la Renta / Mango bow print dress, $195 / Lanvin / J.Crew ruched swimwear / TIBI sandals / Jimmy Choo high heels / Christian Louboutin , $355 / Sergio Rossi high heel platform sandals / Kate Spade leather shoes / Mar y Sol raffia beach tote / Peacock purse / Nine West / Jimmy Choo python purse

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Think Pink

Last night I watched the classic movie Funny Face.  I was so inspired by the opening song Think Pink.  There isn't a color that is more feminine (with the exception of maybe black) in the world.

I hope you enjoy this clip from the movie and, of course, the dresses.

And remember, Think Pink!

Think Pink by danette-dillon featuring high heel shoes

If you're looking for more fashion posts be sure to check out our sister site Perfectly Pear.  We think you'll like it!

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January Must List

There are several things on this list that I'm saving my Christmas money to purchase...specifically #6.  I can't

wait to ride my bike all over town.  (Please do not make any references to Queen's I Want to Ride My Bicycle.)

Here's the break down.

1. Michael Kor's Bracelet from Dillards

2. GreenRoom Planner from Target

3. Bear Pedestal Cake Stand from West Elm

4. Leopard Pointy Toe Flats from Nine West

5. Huffy Champion Bike from Wal-Mart

Don't forget to check out past Must Lists: December, November, & October.

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Guest Post from Joanna of ModaMama

Today I get the privilege of introducing you to a lady of impeccable taste.  Joanna is a fashion blogger, an actress, a photographer and so much more.  I have no doubt that you will enjoy reading and looking at the style pictures on her Joanna's blog.  And you'll be inspired to spice up your wardrobe.  Make sure to stop by and read her blog.

Click to see full outfit post.

Guest posting is awkward.  It's feels odd to talk about myself, like I'm applying for a dating video: Actor, Tv host, photographer, sci-fi nerd, and boardgame geek, who can kill you with her bare hands from 12 years of Kung Fu training. Loves ruffled dresses and pretty, pretty shoes, and is recently obsessed with her Vintage-esque bike.  Contact me at ModaMama.

Click to see full outfit post.

Lately, I've been taking part in something called Dressember, where you wear a dress every single day in December.  Some do it for fun, some do it for the challenge or styling, and some do it for charity.  I'm doing it for a bit of all three.

Click here to see full outfit post.

I'd love to share with you a few ideas on styling dresses. First off, belts!  I can't get by without a few good belts, and I really suggest Forever 21 for really cheap and trendy belts to help you constantly change up your look.

Click here to see full outfit post.

Sweaters/shirts over/under dresses. I love doing this because it also lets me wear summer dresses all year round. This gives you a ton of versatility and you can literally create hundreds of looks by just changing that up.  Plus, when it gets cold, you really need to stay warm by practicing the art of layering.

Did I also mention tights?  Wool tights are my absolute must here in Toronto, Canada.  It gets really cold and there's just no way I could set my dresses aside.  So tights with wool in them are as essential as a warm jacket.

Click to see full outfit post.

Plus, you can do all of it at once - shirt under a dress, sweater over it, tights to stay warm, and a belt to finish it all off!

Click to see full outfit.

Finally, go with what you love.  My recent love, or obsession, is faux fur.  Specifically faux fur vests.  I absolutely adore it, and love the fact that I seem to be able to just throw this one over anything!

That's it!  Thanks for reading and I'd love it if you stopped by, followed me, or even just watched a Coffee Talk vid or two.  Take care!

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Dressing the New Year

I think we all have one...that one designer who can't fashion anything poorly.  For me, that one designer is Michael Kors.  Even as a plus size woman his designs fit me perfectly.  It's as if he completely understands my body shape.  Believe me.  That's no easy task.

In the December issue on InStyle (page 192), I came across an article with five style lessons from Kors.
When I read them I thought to myself that's me.  I do that too.  Or in some cases I want to do that too.

But I think more than anything this article helped me to realize how little of my closet I actually use.  My closet and drawers and shoe bins are overflowing, but with clothes that I very rarely wear.  That is NOT good.  If I'm going to spend money on clothes why am I not wearing them?  This simply will not do.  (I would show you pictures on my closet, but I'm too embarrassed.  It's  terrible.)

So here's my goals...

Source Picture #1/ Source Picture #2

After Christmas I'll have considerable more time.  I'm going to need something to do that is useful.  I think I've found my Christmas break challenge. 

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Have Dress--Will Travel

Did your grandparents ever watch that show Have Gun--Will Travel?  Mine did, and believe me, I've sat through many a western show.

So maybe I'm not a gun fighter, but I enjoy a good party and I'm not afraid to travel to go to one especially if it's a formal one.  I've always been a fan of gold.  And I'm not certain that there's another color on earth that says celebration nearly as much as gold.

I've put together a look that I would wear to a formal holiday party.  Truthfully, it's on the pricey side, but beautiful just the same.

Have Dress--Will Travel

it's a Holiday Formal Party

1/2/3/4

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What I'm Wearing this Weekend

This weekend brings a load of fun to the Tulsa, Oklahoma area and I can't wait.  Everybody knows that half of the fun is what you wear to the event.  So, when I walk onto the grounds of the Brush Creek Bazaar on Friday morning, I'm going to be styling.   

I hear you.  I hear you.  What is this momentousness occasion that Danette is writing about?  Well, let me tell you.

The Brush Creek Bazaar is an event for the entire family.  It's a craft show and a children's play house with fair food and live entertainment!  To top it off, it's located on one of the most beautiful piece of real estate in Tulsa County.  

If you have a chance you should stop by and do some early Christmas shopping.  (Yes, that's right.  Christmas shopping.  As a matter of fact, I bought my first three gifts last night.)  Or maybe you just need to take a break from the kids.  Let them loose in the kids area where we have supervised play time.  

The Brush Creek Bazaar is located at 10900 S. Louisville Drive, Tulsa, Oklahoma, and is open on Friday from 9-6, on Saturday from 9-6, and on Sunday from 12-5.  Tickets are just $5 at the door!  Your ticket is good for all three days.  We're expecting 10,000 people on the grounds over this three day period so come early and stay late.  This is an event you won't want to miss.  Seriously.  I'm not joking.

For more info check out this link and this link (there's a video on the Facebook page).

Here's what I'm wearing.

Brush Creek Bazaar by danette-dillon featuring missoni

Missoni
stylebop.com

T by alexander wang
net-a-porter.com

Rachel zoe
stylebop.com

Rachel Zoe platform shoes
stylebop.com

Michael kors handbag
$560 - julesb.co.uk

Michael Kors clip earrings
neimanmarcus.com

Dogeared Jewels handcrafted jewelry
zappos.com

Gag Lou twist jewelry
boticca.com

Bracelet
oqvestir.com.br

Chanel jewelry
fashion.1stdibs.com

What are your plans for this weekend?

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