The Lock Necklace

I feel very L.L. Bean today, haha *shrugs* I've never shopped there, but I've seen their catalogue.  What do you guys think? Does this ensemble ooze woodsy chic?  ANYWHO, I'm totally getting off topic.  Let's talk about today's LOTD.  My jacket's from +Talbots.  I got it on sale for $30 during their spring blowout - what a bargain!  I wish I could give you guys a link, but this piece is no longer available.

I kept everything simple!  I usually like to wear statement jewelry, but I thought I'd sport something dainty today.  My gorgeous lock necklace is from Sterling Forever - it's available here for $44.  I absolutely love SF.  They have such a lovely online collection, and they offer free shipping on orders $50+.

A contemplative shot for you guys, ha!  Love, love, LOVE my +Velvet Heart button-front.  It's such an adorable top - I especially love the denim trim!  I highly recommend picking one up for yourself - you can browse their collection here.  The material's great, and the piece is super versatile.  I'll make sure to style it in an office-friendly post soon so you guys can see how I'd wear this to work.

Top:  c/o Velvet Heart

Bag:  Kate Spade

Jeans:  Bongo Jeans

Shoes:  c/o Light in the Box

Necklace:  c/o Sterling Forever

International Giveaway: Win Yoga Dress Pants of Your Choice from Betabrand ($88)

It's time for another fab giveaway - y'all know how much I love free swag.  I've partnered up with +Betabrand for today's post!  One very lucky INTERNATIONAL winner will score Yoga Dress Pants of their choice (retailed at $88).  

They're available in three different styles: straight-leg, boot-cut, and leggings.  If you're looking for dress pants, go with SL or BC.  If you want something more casual, I recommend coppin' the leggings!  Like yoga pants, these bottoms have tons of stretch - they just happen to LOOK like dress pants.  Faux zipper + pockets (two side & two rear) + belt loops = outwardly professional.  

Also available in gray, navy, and taupe!  I personally own these pants so I can wholeheartedly vouch for them.  If you missed my Betabrand feature, clicky here!  I also like that they're available in petite, regular, and long lengths. ANYWHO, back to the giveaway.  As always, it's super easy to enter.  All you have to do is follow them on Instagram.  There are also several bonus entries available to up your chances of winning!  Enter via rafflecopter below.  Good luck, this giveaway ends April 6th.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Wearing a Statement Necklace: 3 Tips

Re-featuring my lovely +Mint and Lolly necklace on SS today - if you'd like to see how I wore it previously, clicky HERE.  ANYWHO, y'all know how much I love wearing statement jewelry, especially bold necklaces.  Although I don't believe in fashion rules per se, I do have a few tips to share with you guys.  

1.  Keep thangs simple - let your main statement piece do the talkin'.  Don't wear giant hoops, loads of arm candy, and/or fistfuls of cray cocktail rings when sportin' a bold necklace.  You don't want all that stuffs to get in the way, and you'd be trying wayyyy too hard.  If you want to wear other pieces in addition to your necklace, stick with dainty pieces like thin rings or subtle studs.

2.  Big jewelry + solid clothing = winning.  This combo always works well. FYI: busy patterns may not be your best friend in this particular situation. It obviously varies case by case, but in general, take care when mixing loud prints & statement pieces.

3.  Wear it with a collar!  Button up your favorite blouse or oxford all the way up and let the necklace peek out underneath the collar.  A great way to jazz up a office-friendly ensemble.

Do you guys have any tips to add?  I could go on forever, but I won't bore y'all, haha.  Where do you guys shop for statement jewelry? I actually love copping pieces from independent boutiques like Mint & Lolly, Hanuel, Dainty & Bold, and InPink.  I try to supporting "small businesses", and their quality = just as good as any designer brand if not better.  The Mint & Lolly piece I'm wearing below ($59.99) is cuter than any J. Crew piece I own.  200% serious'!  Trust me, I have my share of designer jewelry, haha.  

Like I mentioned previously, statement jewelry looks amazing with solid colors!  I styled a formal look for you guys today on the blog.  The gown's from AMICLUBWEAR.  It's a lovely maxi dress, but it's a bit big?  The sweetheart neckline's beautiful and all, but the dress itself needs the help of a tailor.  However, the dress has a built-in bra which I love.  For $23.99, this dress is a nice value, but it'd depend on the occasion.  If you have any questions, just leave me a comment!  I promise to get back to you.

Dress:  c/o AMICLUBWEAR ($23.99)

Clutch: c/o Lily Rain

Necklace:  c/o Mint & Lolly ($59.99)

Earrings:  c/o Anjolee