What is new at Coach?

Well, there is Coach and then there is 

Coach Exceptional!  

This exceptional bag is exquisite!

Coach Western Rivet Rogue Bag...

     Over the weekend I was out and about with my daughter-in-law Kate, shopping and taking in some of the fall options starting to come into the shops.  We stepped into the Coach store and I was rendered speechless.  Coach's new line is loaded with various options of handbags embellished with pearl cabochons, polished gunmetal rivets and leather flowers fasten with rivets.  My personal favorite is this pebble leather bag with suede lining.

     Temptation oh yes!  This is my number one favorite fall 2016 must have item.  I have to confess if this is all I was to add to my wardrobe this season, it is well worth it.

     Sometimes just one very special addition is all you need to refresh what you already have in your closet.  

     Dreaming of this bag taking up residence in my closet...Yes! 

As ever,

My Flag Bag...

Happy Independence Day!

     I am out an about enjoying the day and sporting my Aimee Kestenberg bag (http://aimeekestenberg.com/handbags.html). 

My Aimee Kestenberg Bag

     Aimee Kestenberg is a partner with Hope for The Warriors, (a non-profit organization who assist 9-11 service members & their families) and contributes a donation to Hope For the Warriors from the sale of this fabulous bag.

#AKforHope

     So not only do I have a great bag, but I know it is making a difference to all those who gave us all so much.

Happy Fourth of July!

     Wishing you a very safe and happy holiday!

As ever,

POM POM'S...

Who doesn't love a pretty shoe? 

 What about a shoe with a bit of whimsy?  

What is trending in shoes?

Pom Pom's!!

Dolce & Gabanna embellished sandal | Malone Souliers Strawberry Suede | Sophia Webster Sandal 

Pom Pom's the charming fringe woolen ball more often found attached to hats are now on our shoes!

Aquazzura Palm Springs | Savanna Heel | Aquazzura Disco sequinned 

I love how the pom pom with it's zesty fun nature adds an extra level of sexy and glamour all at the same time!

Aquazzura Sandal | Dolce & Gabbana | Aquazzura Disco Thing |  Sherry 3

Trendy?  Yes!  

Statement with flair and style?  Yes!   

Pom Pom's, a new element to your style? Yes!

As ever,

What to pack?

  

      A list of items to pack for your long weekend excursion should include fun and flirty earrings, a hat to shade you from the sun, a chic maxi dress and of course great sandals.  

Below are some of my favorite items to pack for a quick summer get away.

Ralph Lauren Ruffled Bikini | Michael Kors Sunglasses | Havaianas flip flops | Denim Jacket House of Fraser |  Jcrew boyfriend sweater | Jcrew tortoise hoop earrings | Pallas off-the-shoulder top | Joseph Viscose t-shirt | The denim corner denim shorts | Emilio Pucci maxi dress | Rene Caovilla sandals | Rag & Bone straw panama hat | Old Navy tote |
Lauren earrings

     Whether at home or away remember to always do it in style.  
Have fun!

As ever,

Boho Chic!

     Looking for a new bracelet?  

     As boho chic has had a huge resurgence, have fun and invest in a handcrafted bracelet by Rose Gonzales.  I selected a crystal version and I am over the moon with the sparkle each time I look down on my wrist!

     The bracelets, which come in a large assortment of colors, metals, leather and crystals many branded with a Rose Gonzales stamped charm and tassels is just the bracelet for Summer 2016!

Stacking bracelets...

      Love stacking my Rose Gonzales bracelet with my leather Brighton bracelet (http://www.brighton.com).

     A Rose Gonzales (http://www.rosegonzales.com) bracelet

 is a must have for your summer style.

As ever,

Summer Essential...

Looking for a summer essential?  

The answer is a...

Long Floral Flowing Skirt.  

     You might say, a long floral skirt isn't a new idea for summer, but it is an essential.  Take a look at some of my current favorites.

Banana Republic Floral Skirt | Mixed-Media Skirt |
Dolce & Gabbana Skirt | Ralph Lauren Skirt

     I always enjoy a long skirt in the summer.  It is easy, breezy and takes you from day to night in a snap.  Put it together with your favorite t-shirt, denim jacket, embellish sweater, flip flops or a wedge sandal.    

A long floral skirt, it will be your work-horse all summer long.

As ever,

HUSH...

     My youngest son, Adam, a hairstylist, just moved to take a position at Hush Salon (http://hushsalon.com) in Olde City Philadelphia.  Michael, Joe and I went out to visit him and took in the town.   I can't wait for my next hair appointment to see Adam and explore Olde City Philadelphia once again.

Michael, Adam and Me...Outside Hush Salon!

  
   Olde City Philadelphia in the spring...beautiful.

As ever,

Mother's Day...

     Each day I celebrate the joy of being the Mother of these wonderful, beautiful and most special human beings....my sons...Michael and Adam.  

Michael & Adam - 2003

Me & Michael - 2014

Me & Adam - 2014

    Michael and Adam, it has been my honor to be your Mother.  

I LOVE YOU BOTH SO MUCH. 

xoxoxoxo

     Wishing all Mother's everywhere the Happiest 

As ever,

A Closet Audit...

A closet full of clothes, yet you say you haven't a thing to wear?  Let me help you take control of your closet with a Closet Audit.

What is a Closet Audit?

A Closet Audit begins by removing items taking up valuable space in your closet.  It begins with you and I going through all your shoes, clothing, handbags, etc.  We will eliminate items which no longer fit, are outdated or you just do not like any longer.

If you haven't worn it in the last year, it is time for the item to go.

We will assess and sort everything in your wardrobe.  We decide what is missing in your wardrobe basics and make recommendations for replacing or introducing new items to update your look.

Together decisions are made as to what to do with the things you no longer will be keeping in your wardrobe.  Do we donate? Do we sell the items?  Do we try to repair/tailor pieces (sew up holes in pockets, replace buttons, alter hems).

Once it has been decided what stays, the closet is organized and your clothes will be hung in a uniform fashion by using padded, wooden, or plastic hangers.  No wire dry cleaner hangers (recycle the wire hangers by returning them to the cleaners on your next trip).

The finish outcome is a wonderfully organized closet.  A list of recommendations of wardrobe items to replace or introduce.  Most importantly you will enjoy going to your closet knowing everything in there is just what you want to wear.

Mabelle Styles is available to make an evaluation and get you started on the road to less clutter and more organization in your closet space.

Contact me at mabelle.styles.you@gmail.com to set up your closet audit.

As ever,

OOTD...

Beautiful Spring Day!

Outfit of the day...

Vintage Ralph Lauren Shirtdress | Elliott Luca shoes | Gili Obi Belt | Coach Bag

As ever,

Graduate...Build your wardrobe...

           You set a goal, worked hard, and you have earned your degree. Congratulations!

           So, what is your post college wardrobe look like?  What will you be wearing to those interviews? What do you wear once you are hired?

     You start by building your wardrobe with basics. You will choose a neutral color palette such as black, beige or navy for ease of coordinating numerous outfits. 

     Core pieces to invest in are a mid-heel pump, low heel shoe, a great handbag, a tote bag as well as a classic pantsuit, dress-suit and a sheath dress.  So, what else are basic wardrobe essentials you ask? Below is a list of suggestions to build your wardrobe basics.  

Mattabisch Women Suit | Ann Taylor All Season Sheath | 
Neiman Marcus Suit for Women

  I have opted for black as my neutral color palette.  You may change black for your neutral color of choice.

• White Blouse - I generally opt for a classic silhouette with a twist...a blouse with a bow, French cuff, a little extra something...

Destiny Love Bow Collar Blouse

• Cardigan - change out the jacket with a cardigan for a more relaxed or casual look.  I also like a shorter cardigan, which you can throw over a blouse or under a blazer/jacket for an added layer.  
• Pant/Trouser...of course!  Not too wide leg, not too straight a classic silhouette is best to start.  You can always add a more updated version as you go along.

Oasis Slim Boot Cut Jean | 
White House Black Market City Knit Pant

• A-line Skirt.
• Sweaters in a basic neutral and one in your favorite color.
• Camisoles - in a basic neutral and one in your favorite color.  They are wonderful for modesty and for peeking out under a sweater or buttoned-up blazer.
• A silk scarf.
• A cashmere wrap or silk pashmina...they can be thrown over your jacket or use as a scarf around your neck.  I keep a cashmere wrap in my car all year long just in case.

JC Penney Scarf | Reversible Pashmina | 
Jcrew refined Silk-Cashmere Wrap

• Dressy jeans.
• A denim jacket...this will be a workhorse for you.  It is acceptable in most professional environments or for dress down Friday and is perfect for after work and weekends.

Banana Republic Cardigan | JCrew Denim Jacket

• Accessories - a pair of 1-inch hoops/pearl earrings, bangle or cuff, statement necklace/ring.

Kate Spade Pearl & Crystal Earring | 
Rhombus Carving Hoop Earrings

Jcrew Crystal Floral Necklace | BooHoo Lola Multi-Bar Cuff |
Art Smith by Barse Green Turquoise 

    As time goes on you will continue to build your wardrobe by adding more color and patterns.

Wishing you much success ... all the while expressing your style.

As ever,

Tinted Lips...

     Burt's Bees is not new but always fresh.  Burt's Bees encompasses a diverse product line of beauty and health care items; my favorite are the lip products, which include balm, gloss and lip treatments.  

     I recently purchased the tinted lip balm with a hint of color  (it comes in 6 shades, I chose the color Hibiscus), which boast of 8 hours of moisturization.  I like the subtle color and how emollient it is on my lips.  The tinted lip balm will be a nice substitute for the summer months from the usual lipsticks and lip-gloss. 

Burt's Bees Tinted Lip Balm 

     I plan to try the other shades and keep one in my purse, beach bag, and desk.  Why not?

As ever,

Loving This Dress...

     I am loving the simplicity of this high-low full ruffle hem of this dress.  The plus...it has POCKETS!

Anthropologie.com - The Camellia Drop Waist Dress

     You guessed it; this dress is on my wish list!

As ever,

Easter Traditions...A Bonnet?

     Daffodils, tulips, and chocolate bunnies are all part of the celebration of Easter, but it is the Easter Bonnet that is celebrated with grandeur. The tradition of new clothing and a new hat were said to bring good luck and so the tradition continues today.  

     The Easter Bonnet by definition is a new or fancy hat worn on Easter Sunday.  Whether a new hat or a hat re-designed, the Easter Bonnet may be decorated with a pastel colored satin ribbon around the crown of the wide-brim hat or it may also be covered with colorful silk flowers.

Floral Easter Bonnet | Classic Easter Bonnet |
Evolution of the Easter Bonnet

     In the spirit of the Easter celebration, many towns still hold parades to showcase your Easter Bonnet.   Today is the annual Easter Bonnet celebration in New York City, which dates back more than 100 years.  All along Fifth Avenue you will see many parading around showcasing their new bonnets.

     So whether you are participating in an Easter Bonnet parade or spending time with family and friends, may it be a happy and joyous day.

    Wishing you a Happy Easter!

As ever,

Tassel Clutch...

     Rebecca Minkoff  the luxury designer does it again! 

      I am in LOVE with her multi-color tassel clutch bag in patchwork suede, black, almond and poppy red leather (poppy red is my personal favorite).

Rebecca Minkoff Leather Tassel Clutch | Rebecca Minkoff Patchwork Suede Clutch

 
      Rebecca Minkoff's first breakout handbag is the classic leather "morning after bag", which is the original bag in her sentimental themed collection.  The beautiful bags with the attention to detail, sumptuous leather, quality hardware, are all the elements that make up this quality collection.  In addition to handbags her line includes accessories, clothing and shoes.  A Rebecca Minkoff tassel clutch for spring/summer 2016? 

Yes, Yes, Yes!

As ever, 

The it shoe...

     The spring/summer 2016 "it shoe" of the moment is the mule!  I have worn the mule over the years and I am happy they are trending once again.

Below are a few mules I am obsessing over this season.

Mansur Gavriel 2 Band Slide Sandal

Gucci Webby Quilted Snake Heel Mule

Lanvin Pointed-Toe Mules

Giannico Satin Mules

Giuseppe Zanotti Design

     This classic design is available in various silhouettes to fit any and all occasions.  Which one is more your style?

As ever,

The Bomber Jacket is Back!

     The 80's Bomber jacket is back! 

     We all own the standard go to ever-classic denim jacket, which  goes with everything.  This season plan to add the bomber jacket it is a great substitute to the denim jacket.  The bomber jacket varieties are endless from versions made from nylon, satin, embellished with embroidery and multi-color patch work panels.  Pair it with a t-shirt and jeans, shorts, skirts and maxi dresses.

Zara's Embroidered Bomber Jacket...

     My personal favorite is the Zara padded bomber jacket in a subtle khaki color.  The bomber with a price tag of $69.90 is in my opinion the best value in achieving mile high style!

Zara Padded Bomber Jacket...My favorite!

      Options and variety are essential to great style.  This spring season opt to add the bomber jacket to your wardrobe line up.

As ever,

My tarnished little necklace...no more!

     Today I was excited to pull out my Dogeared pearl necklace, but first I had to find it.  Alas, I find it!  What I also find is the silver chain is tarnished.  It is a delicate charming little necklace with a fresh-water pearl, my birthstone.  I try polishing the silver chain with a polishing cloth, no good.  I know I have to be careful what I do with the necklace because I can't immerse the pearl in anything too astringent. So I get creative, I take about a 1/2 cup of vinegar and about a tablespoon of baking soda and soak the silver chain for a few minutes; pat the chain dry and try the polishing cloth, better but still a bit dark.  So, I think if my Sensodyne brand whitening toothpaste can whiten teeth, let's see what it does on the chain.  I take an old soft bristle toothbrush with the Sensodyne and I proceed by brushing the silver chain gently.  The tarnish is gone! Yes gone! 

      Now I can't make any claims or recommendations, but I took a chance and I am happy to say, my necklace looks beautiful. As you can see it is nestled comfortably among the rest of my favorite necklaces.  

Dogeared Pearls of Love White Pearl Necklace

    My Dogeared Pearls of Love Pearl Necklace is back in rotation.  You can go to the Dogeared site by clicking the caption below the photo to read the beautiful romance card.

As ever,

Bell Sleeves...

    

     Another trending style for the season is the 

"Bell Sleeve!"

    

     The drama of the Bell Sleeves gone mad!  Please tell me you love this amazing silhouette of this Roksanda Margot crepe dress.  The captivating fullness of the bell sleeves along with the bright fuchsia color renders me speechless.  It is just amazing!  I like it paired with the Sophia Webster Flaming leather sandals.  Not to mention the Chanel globe clutch bag and the classic Seaman Schepps crystal onyx diamond earrings, stunning!!

Chanel globe clutch bag | Sophia Webster Flamingo Sandals | Roksanda Margot crepe dress | Seaman Schepps Earrings

     I am in love with this look!  I am ready to go.  

What time do we leave?

As ever,

Spring Event at Loose Threads Boutique...

     Friday night I participated in a spring event at Loose Threads Boutique.  Wine and cheese was on hand as we greeted guest and helped them shop.

  

   Samantha, the new owner of Loose Threads Boutique, is stocking the store with a wide variety of designer wear along with great vintage finds.

Samantha and these great vintage pants...So cute for spring!

New and vintage jewelry to add to your jewelry box.

Great evening at Loose Threads Boutique...thanks Samantha!

   I recommend you visit Loose Threads Boutique and update your look with everything from swimsuits to denim for the upcoming spring season!

As ever,