Eyes for Eyelet

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Although it is still snowy here in Syracuse, yesterday was actually the first day of the long-awaited season of Spring. While lace garments often come to mind when this new season comes into play, it is eyelet that actually seems quite overlooked. While I typically associate lace with extreme femininity and a girly approach to dressing, eyelet feels to be for that girl that is a bit country. Though she likes the idea of lace, it is not as dressed up and not as prim as usual. The girl that is a fan of eyelet, wears her pieces either relaxed when it comes to how she accessorizes, as seen in image four, or exudes a sort of relaxed glamour completely, as seen in the first and third images above.  While lace can easily go overboard when it comes to the overall look, eyelet seems to work better as a starting base. Above are some eyelet pieces that I was particularly drawn to for either their intricate cut-outs with simple shapes or how they have been styled by those who wear them.

Would you try out eyelet this spring?

Dress Up

With Christmas around the corner, there is no doubt that I have festive reds on my mind. Though I do not celebrate Christmas, there is something about putting on a dress in a holiday colored hue that makes the holidays have that special feeling that they always do. This Carven dress from the Spring '13 collection has all of the components of a great holiday dress-- tasteful and fun cutouts, interesting neckline, classic length, and bright color--but, being from the spring collection, will also obviously work for warmer months.

Different Dots

{Forever 21 dress, Via Spiga heels, and Michael Kors watch}

It's funny how the way of dress is different depending on where you are. While southern women are known for their love of "getting dressed", since I've been home, I've noticed mostly a parade of casual attire. I love how this dress is sort of a median between casual and that little bit extra. And, although it looks like just another polka dotted dress, with dots that are slightly buzzed in appearance, bell sleeves, and a triangular cutout in the back, it really is anything but that. 

Surprise from Behind

{Forever 21 dress and heels and Michael Kors watch}

At first, this dress appears to be checked off for every qualification for a just a "nice" dress: princess puffed sleeves, colorful (loving this emerald!), and swingy skirt. However, with just a turn, the back is anything but just "nice". The cutout is an intriguing, almost abstract teardrop, shape that when applied to a dress like this one, has a great balance of just an ordinary everyday dress, to one that has a little more interest to it. And, when paired with these floral perforated Mary Jane's from Forever 21, there is a certain summery feel that comes from it, as well.

Vintage Confection

{Topshop vest, Necessary Clothing top, Vintage skirt from Shareen, Steve Madden shoes, Forever 21 necklace, and Michael Kors watch}

I fell in love with this vintage skirt about a month or so ago when I saw it at Shareen Vintage's New York location. I am always drawn to vintage prom dresses and skirts, especially those in palettes that resemble that of pastel confections and with lovely full skirts. I knew that I wanted to wear this skirt for a special occasion, as it feels special when worn, and my last day in New York this summer definitely felt like one of those occasions. 

Cutouts + Cream

{Madewell top, Forever 21 leotard, Necessary Clothing belt, Zara skirt, Michael Kors watch, and Steve Madden shoes}

Though I am dress person by nature, I have really been into separate pieces lately. I love the way that there are so many options to pair different skirts and tops (like here) and the opportunity to play with textures, various patterns, and shapes. With this cut-out lace top, it is easy to alter it slightly by pairing with a colored tank top or simple blank bandeau for the braver type. The flowy miniskirt keeps this look summery and is finished off with a neon belt for a bit of interest to an otherwise neutral composition. 

Flower Power

{Forever 21 dress, Steve Madden shoes, Michael Kors watch}

When I saw this dress at Forever 21 a few months ago, I knew it would be perfect for the summer. With it's bold floral pattern, perfect cut, and interesting crochet panel along the mid-section, it was definitely something that was not seen in my closet before. A great piece to dress up with heels--as seen here-- or a pair of leather sandals for running around, it's a fun dress that is both easy and fun to wear.