points of interest

I was first introduced to the term 'points of interest' during my image training at LII. It refers to your accessory count and also includes any focal points of interest in your outfit. For example, a bright cuff on a neutral jacket, a bold metallic belt buckle, a big bow detail on a blouse, or a vibrant nail color. These are all details which will draw the eye to focus on their dominating features. 

Now, the important question: 

Does your accessory count make you look cluttered or classy? 

And here is your answer: 

For a maximum of 10 focal points, aim to have between 6-8. If your count is below 5, feel free to add an accessory or two. Now remember, if you are wearing a bright nail color, that counts as two (one point for each hand), a neutral nail color can be 1 point for both hands. Also, remember to count every ring, bracelet and pair of earrings (delicate studs can count as one, drop earrings would be two). 

Let's go through my look and see how many points of interest I have. 

Earrings: 2 points

Rings: one on each hand (2 points)

Nail color: neutral (1 point) 

Shoes: they pop (2 points)

For a total of 7 points. Easy, right? 

Now, take the test yourself:

How many points of interest does your outfit have? 

I'm loving my new floral denim so much! I've re-styled them here for a workday, but it all depends on the dress code of your company. In my opinion this is a perfect look if you are in a creative industry, as those dress codes tend to be more casual and you have more room to be playful. 

I hope you are having a wonderful week!

Thanks for visiting today. 

xxxo

a peplum skirt

It's been a short but rather busy week. 

I arrived in Phoenix last night for the Association of Image Consultants International (AICI) Conference. 

It's a shame I won't get to enjoy this 100 degree weather ( I can't believe those numbers!) as I'm in workshops and image sessions throughout the day, until I jet back to Boston on Monday. 

I'll re-shoot and post the looks I'm wearing at the conference later in the week - my photographer is missing in action on this trip.  :) Actually, I can show you one now! Remember this fabulous navy polka dot dress? This weekend I'm pairing it with a lemon belt and coral heels. 

As for today's look on the blog,  I took the easy way out and paired this skirt with a denim sleeveless top. The reason I say easy way out is because that's exactly what a denim shirt is in my mind, probably also the reason why I own so many. You can compare this to ones love/need of a basic white tee, if I'm stuck with pairing pieces, I simply add a denim shirt and voila - perfection - it's that easy.  I'm also styling this skirt in a more business appropriate way. I'll show you next week!

Have a great weekend friends, 

thanks for visiting today. 

xxxo

denim & supply Ralph Lauren

I've been very excited about the opening of Ralph Lauren's Denim & Supply stores since I got a heads up about a month ago. The first store just opened in Boston on Newbury Street and a second is opening in NYC later this month. 

The brand, est. 2011, is an expert on fit with their high quality Japanese premium denim.

 I vouch for that, the first pair I grabbed and tried on fit me to perfection. 

With a modern statement of down-to-earth style, Denim & Supply prides itself on 

'creating personal style through self-expression and individuality.'

I chose this pair of denim because I was instantly attracted to the strong floral graphics.  And the fit (as mentioned earlier) is impeccable! They have just the right amount of stretch, sit comfortably around the waist, do not dip at the back - check, check and check!  

It all depends on how you style them, they can be great for weekends and workdays.  Here I wore them with a Denim & Supply knit pullover. It has a slightly asymmetrical, cropped silhouette and because of the soft knit, it drapes the body quite nicely. 

I love the way it moves in the wind. 

Later this week, I'll be styling these for the workday. Something worth checking out! :) 

The stores give off a free-spirited atmosphere, from the weathered floors to the vintage inspired decor, all reminiscent of a rugged artist's loft.

* store images via Ralph Lauren Communications *

Thanks for coming by today. 

If you're in the Boston area, check out the store and tell me your thoughts!

xo