STYLE CLASS | How to Do Cool Girl Casual Without Breaking the Bank

via Vogue.com

Originally posted in The Fashion Scoop

Full disclosure: I'm on a seriously strict spring shopping budget. My husband's working on a start-up venture so that means that I have to be a little more resourceful than usual these days. I can't just drop mad bills at Aritzia. I can't go on an All Saints spending spree. COS, The Row and Kit & Ace will have to wait.

Since I've never let limited funds stop me before (and don't intend to start now), I've mined the mall to achieve that sporty, minimalist look all the cool girls are wearing right now. The best part? Almost every piece I found is well under $100. Who's cool now? 

SEE MY PICKS HERE...

A FRESH CROP

via Thrifts and Threads

Originally posted in The CLOSET

Call them floods, call them shpants, call them what you want - cropped pants are back in a big way for spring. Designers showed off loads of cute crops on the spring runways, exposing long-hidden ankles and putting spring shoes on full display. But forget about your old capris (note to selves: never call them capris), the new crop of crops are wider, more flared and way cooler than their predecessors. Whether you're a fashion risk-taker or like to take things slow, there's a pair of crops that's just right for you. For the beginner, try out a pair of cropped kick chinos or jeans - relaxed, slightly flared, and super easy to wear with cute kicks or strappy spring sandals. Ready to go next level?  Super wide crops are right on point for spring - opt for loose, flowy crops for work, or keep it structured with black faux-leather culottes for street style domination.  The cropped-pant bonus? You'll be totally ready for those April puddles ;)

Check out these 3 looks and get ready to raise your pant game, like, literally... 

READ MORE...

LET'S TAKE THIS OUTSIDE

via GAP

Originally posted in The CLOSET

Back in December, my parka and I were tight. I could count on it to keep me cozy and look cute every single day. But, like that super clingy boyfriend who has no concept of personal space, my parka has overstayed its welcome.  I love you, really I do parka, but isn't it time we took a break? Luckily, no feelings will be hurt in this process. I'll quietly pack up my beloved parka, put it in a comfortable spot in my basement and bring it back next winter once we've both had some much-needed time apart.  

Here's the thing: with so many cute spring coats flooding into stores right now, I 'm ready for something new. I have daily debates between flowy trenches and cute cropped bombers. I can't get enough of all the long cardis and extra-long vests out there. While some jackets are investments, most are right within my spring shopping budget so I won't have to deal with any guilt for my spring fling. 

Ready to part ways with your parka, too? We've rounded up 40 of the most tempting toppers for Spring '16 to get you ready for the warm weather ahead. Click on the pics below to scroll through and get ready to want...

3 Ways to Wake Up Your Winter Wardrobe

via RStyle.me

Originally posted in The LOOK

This happens every year. Each January, I'm struck with an insatiable appetite for change. And while we haven't had to endure a super tough winter this year, I'm still ready to switch things up. Since I can't grab the next flight to Cabo because my kids would miss me, I'm relying on my wardrobe to help me get through the rest of winter. I've been wearing black and grey nearly exclusively for the past month. Why? Well, my warmest parka is black. My fave furry trapper hat from ALDO is black, too.  I've been wearing only black pants and leggings because, well, I ate 3 boxes of Turtles over the holidays so they're the only ones that fit. 

While black is always in style, too much of it gets tired after awhile. If you're feeling black & grey fatigue, too, here are 3 easy ways to wake up your winter wardrobe right now...

READ MORE...

WORK IT. OWN IT.

Need a little extra motivation to get moving? As the Vaughan Mills Official Stylist, I was tasked with rounding up a shortlist of my top fitness picks for 2016. These 7 fitness game-changers will get you to the gym looking extra cute this season...