Fashion Inspiration – A Dash of Solt

STYLE: LESSONS LEARNED FROM 30 DAYS OF STYLE

Published on November 23, 2021November 22, 2021 by Shannon2 Comments

Last month I challenged myself to 30 Days of Daily Style. The purpose was to get dressed each day and learn to love and appreciate my current wardrobe. I also wanted to enjoy getting dressed again. Ever since having Teddy, my style significantly shifted to athletic wear (not a bad thing, I just like getting dolled up).

Over the last 30ish days (I had a few days where I was unable to share my outfit) I learned a couple of interesting lessons and gained some insight about what getting dressed each day means to me. Below are some of the thoughts I’ve had during this challenge.

But first, here are the top five looks based on engagement (likes, comments, and shares) on Instagram:

Bonus look: this was my personal favorite!

Lessons Learned:

> Stick to the classics. Classic style is one of the ways I identify myself as a fashion blogger and it rang true during this challenge. The outfits that seemed the simplest and borderline boring were the most popular. I’m 100% convinced that’s becuase they were classic and timeless.

> Wear what you know works. This is similar to the first point, but slightly different. The harder I tried to be creative with my outfit the worse it performed on Instagram. I realized when I picked an outfit that was easy and that I felt comfortable in, I exuded confidence, which is how fashion and style should make you feel.

> Plan ahead. I had much greater success getting dressed and having a smoother morning when I planned and styled out my outfits the night before. It’s a little thing that you may not feeling like doing, but it makes a difference in the morning.

> I wear a lot of pants. Specifically denim jeans. This surprised me as i always have identified as a dress wearer. I think the combination of being a SAHM, nursing/pumping and having to be mobile at all times has caused me to become very casual during the cooler months.

> Keep it simple and dress for your lifestyle. Currently my life is being a stay at home mom with my two babies. This involves lots of playing, fort building, impromptu jaunts outside, spit up, diaper changes, meal prep, etc. I learned quickly that I can still get dressed and look stylish, but my outfit better be no fuss, easy to move in, and limited with the accessories. I have a new found love for classic athleisure wear after doing this challenge.

Thanks to all who followed along with me and supported my posts! It truly means a lot when you guys give feedback and love here on my blog and on Instagram.

Sláinte,

Shannon

STYLE: MOMMY AND ME STYLES FROM DUFFIELD LANE

Published on May 17, 2021May 16, 2021 by ShannonLeave a comment

There are few things I love more than twinning with my Lilly. I’m such a sucker for matching or coordinating dresses. I love matching styles that are classic and stylish and appropriate for both our ages. It’s only natural that one of my favorite go-to brands for Mommy and Me styles is Duffield Lane!

Duffield Lane creates timeless and classic styles that span generations. Located in Grand Rapids, MI, Duffield Lane’s styles are inspired by an effortless, coastal way of life. The brand started out as a pajama company but has since expanded to offer five collections a year. They are known for their perfect fits, bright preppy fabrics, and high quality craftsmanship.

Duffield Lane has the cutest Mommy and Me matching and coordinating styles at an affordable price. Lilly and I have a few matching styles and all of them are beautiful quality. I tend to organize Lilly’s clothes into everyday play and special occasions, and I can say the styles offered for little girls are of the highest quality but also hold up exceptionally well for everyday use.

I also love that Duffield Lane offers matching and coordinating styles for Mommy and Me. I love that Lilly and I have the option to perfectly match each other or we can match our fabrics but wear different styles. Both options make me equally happy and I’ll continue to twin with this cute girl until she no longer thinks it’s cool.

Duffield Lane also has an entire collection that is maternity friendly. I love that these styles are flattering for expecting mamas but will also transition beautifully to postpartum life. I own several Duffield Lane pieces and all of them are a perfect fit, stylish, and so insanely comfortable.

One of my struggles this pregnancy has been feeling so incredibly uncomfortable in my own skin. I’ve had a challenging time finding clothes and styles that are comfortable and make me feel good. I can honestly say that my Duffield Lane pieces have been my favorite this pregnancy and they always make me feel like a million bucks. Especially their maxi dresses – I could live and sleep in these styles all day and feel so good.

If you are looking for styles that are classic, timeless, great quality, and comfortable, then Duffield Lane will be your new go-to. You can click here to shop some of our favorite Duffield Lane styles!

Slainte,

Shannon

STYLE: THE 9-5 EDIT, SIDEWALK SKIRT

Published on September 20, 2020September 20, 2020 by ShannonLeave a comment

It’s been several months since I published a blog post from my 9-5 Edit series! With everyone working from home over the past year, this series was pushed to the wayside. But many people (myself included) are slowly making our way back into the workforce so what better time to bring this series back to life.

Since tomorrow is officially fall, why not showcase a classic fall staple – the J.Crew Sidewalk Skirt. If you are a J.Crew shopper, you’ll recognize this skirt season after season. I have the best selling wool blend sidewalk skirt from J.Crew Factory in a gorgeous magenta. This skirt is the perfect skirt to transition from summer to fall. You can wear it in early fall with a button up shirt or sweater and flats, and as the temperatures get chillier, you can swap out the flats for tights and boots.

For this look, I styled my skirt with a sleeveless button down underneath a knit navy blue v-neck sweater and leopard flats. The perfect sixty degree day ensemble. I played around with a crisp white button up and a belt, as well as a striped crew neck sweater. You can also do a crisp button down or turtleneck with an open front cardigan. The options are endless!!

I do feel the fit of this skirt is a tad big. I’m wearing a size 2 and it’s a wee bit long for my short frame. And the elastic waistband gives you a lot of extra room, so my recommendation is to size down.

J.Crew and J.Crew Factory also offer this skirt in a summer linen version with a scalloped hem – so cute! This piece is perfect for teachers, collegiates, lawyers, my PR ladies – basically it’s the perfect skirt for everyone. It’s an easy dress up or dress down item and easily transitions from season to season. It’s a must have classic, preppy piece that should be in everyone’s closet in every color.

Slainte,

Shannon

SHOP THE LOOK – You can always shop my looks by following me on the LiketoKnowIT App!

STYLE: THE BEST IN FASHION BOOKS

Published on April 21, 2020 by ShannonLeave a comment

“What I believe in is the timelessness of an attitude, the timelessness of style.” – Ralph Lauren

For as long as I can remember, I’ve collected books about style icons. I have books from Oleg Cassini, Kate Spade, and Nina Garcia, and books about Audrey Hepburn, Lilly Pulitzer and my personal favorite, Jackie Kennedy. During my college years and time in fashion school, I devoured books about fashion, personal style, and style icons.

I have always been drawn to and fascinated by the classics. In my mid twenties I gave up shopping for fashion trends and instead began investing in classic pieces. A great fitting pair of denim jeans (blue and white denim), classic striped tees, crisp button up shirts, timeless Lilly Pulitzer shift dresses, ballet flats, and pearl studs are now my go-to uniform.

Below I’m sharing all of the books that have influenced my style in some way. For all of you still finding your style or for those who have found it and just love fashion icons, I hope this list provides some enjoyment and some much needed break from reality.

A Thousand Days of Magic by Oleg Cassini

Hands down my favorite book on Jacqueline Kennedy. Written by Oleg Cassini, the favorite designer during the Kennedy’s White House Years, this book chronicles over 300 outfits that Mrs. Kennedy wore during her time as First Lady. A MUST if you love the Kennedy era.

In Vogue by Angeletti Olivia

This is truly a fascinating look into the world’s most influential fashion magazine. In Vogue is one of the most interesting publications I’ve read on the subjects of culture, art, fashion, photography, and media. Plus, it has some of the most gorgeous images of fashion photography I’ve ever seen.

Style by Kate Spade

Another favorite, this book explores the people and experiences that influenced Kate Spade. It talks about how style comes with age and opening up one’s self to difference experiences, cultures, and ideas. But most importantly, style comes from your own self-confidence.

The Black Book of Style by Nina Garcia

This fun, easy book outlines Nina Garcia’s (previous judge on Project Runway) rules of style. It comes with some really cute fashion illustrations, which is probably why it’s L’s favorite book to flip through.

Audrey Hepburn, An Elegant Spirit by Sean Hepburn Ferrer

I think I have four books on Audrey Hepburn, but this one is my favorite. Compiled by her son, this book contains hundreds of images straight from the family’s picture albums. It’s a unique history that celebrates this much loved fashion icon and remarkable woman.

The Fashion File by Janie Bryant

Calling all Mad Men lovers, this book is for you! The author is the costume designer behind the show Mad Men. This book provides a peek into the design process Janie Bryant used to create each character’s look. It also provides tips for the everyday woman on how to cultivate their own personal style. Definitely a fun book to add to your collection.

Lilly by Kathryn Livingston

Perhaps my favorite biography to date, this book tells the true story of fashion icon Lilly Pulizter. You will get a full dose of Palm Beach society, scandal, and the beginnings of a fashion empire. If you love this iconic brand and are fascinated by privileged American society, this is a book for you!

Fashion: The Twentieth Century by Francois Baudot

My sister gifted me this book while I was in college and actively exploring my style and love of fashion. It’s still one of my favorite historical references for fashion. Spanning the 20th Century, this book showcases the most famous fashion designers of the century and details all the silhouettes and styles that defined a specific decade. Definitely a must if you love fashion history!

On my radar:

Classic Style by Kate Schelter

Ralph Lauren: In His Own Fashion by Alan Flusser

All of these books have brought me great joy over the years. I hope one of these sparks some interest for you and brings you a little joy too.

Slainte,

Shannon

STYLE: FAVORITE PLACES TO SHOP FOR TODDLER CLOTHING

Published on April 17, 2020April 17, 2020 by ShannonLeave a comment

As soon as we found out we were pregnant with a baby girl, I knew I would have a problem with shopping for clothes for her. Although I’ve had my moments, I’ve actually done pretty well splurging on items for special occasions and keeping it realistic for everyday clothes. Because let’s be real, kids grow SO FAST. Also, the wear and tear on their clothes is pretty intense and I would rather get the best bang for our buck on her everyday wear.

But, I do LOVE buying her special occasion clothes and I have found some top notch children boutiques. Almost all of these boutiques are small businesses and I’m more than happy to support them. And in all honesty, the quality of the clothing for these specialty boutiques is fantastic. If you are looking for well-made, high quality craftsmanship for your littles, specialty boutiques are the way to go.

I’ve broken down my favorite places to shop based on special occasions (birthdays, baptism, holidays, etc.), everyday wear, and local.

SPECIAL OCCASION

Lilly Pulitzer

Bella Bliss (based in Kentucky)

The Bella Bean (based in Columbus, OH!)

Shrimp & Grits

Coming Soon: Shop Maddie and Connor (This shop opens later this spring, but follow them on Instagram for some teasers!)

EVERYDAY STYLES

Baby Gap

Old Navy

Cat & Jack for Target

LOCAL BOUTIQUES

Kids Klotheslines

Bowinkles

Hopefully this list is helpful! I love sharing where I find the cutest baby and toddler styles. If you know a great place to shop for toddler clothing that I haven’t listed, please feel free to comment and provide a link!

Slainte,

Shannon

STYLE: BASIC WHITE TEE

Published on April 17, 2020April 17, 2020 by ShannonLeave a comment

Is there anything more classic than a basic white tee? Every person should own at least one, if not several, basic white tees. This iconic and easy piece goes with virtually everything.

There are so many different varieties of white tees to choose from. They come in an array of materials, price points, sleeve length, some with pockets and some without, etc. Heck, you can even pull a classic Hanes white tee from your husband’s closet and wear it with leggings. However, you choose to style it, you are bound to look put together and chic.

KEEP IT CASUAL

You can easily keep a basic white tee casual by styling it with a pair of comfy distressed jeans or polished skinny jeans. During the colder months I will throw on a long cardigan for warmth and extra style. In the warmer months I like to pair a white tee with scalloped shorts, a chunky necklace, and some easy slide sandals. I mean is there anything more comfortable than a lightweight tee on a hot day?!

If I ever need a quick, effortless and stylish outfit, I always reach for a basic white tee with denim – you seriously can’t go wrong. And I either style it with a front tuck or wear it knotted. I also love to roll the sleeves for some added drama.

DRESS IT UP

A basic white tee can also easily be dressed up with a chunky necklace, pleated skirt, and pumps. Wearing a white tee under a class navy suit jacket with skinny pants is also chic. You can also style it with a long boyfriend blazer and skinny black leather pants for a statement look. If your work environment is casual like mine, wearing a white tee tucked into a pair of colored linen or chino pants and some trendy jewels also gives it a dressier look.

Below are some of my favorite places to shop for white tees:

J. Crew Factory

Everlane (Ethical brand!)

Gap

Madewell

Target

How do you style your white tee?!

Slainte,

Shannon

STYLE: EASTER OUTFIT, STAY HOME EDITION

Published on April 6, 2020April 13, 2020 by ShannonLeave a comment

This coming Sunday is Easter and it’s no secret that this year’s celebrations will be very different. Rob and I both are fortunate to have family close by, so holidays are usually large, loud, and full of people. Just because we are staying home though doesn’t mean we can’t celebrate.

We fully intend on cooking a nice meal, giving L an Easter basket full of goodies, and setting up an Easter egg hunt in our backyard (although it may be indoors as the forecast is looking a bit gloomy).

I also plan on getting dressed, as is my normal routine each day. Normally I wear a Lilly Pulitzer dress or top on Easter. But since we are staying home this year, I am going to pull something together that is a little more casual yet still springy, chic, and effortless.

When I saw this violet colored gingham button-up from J.Crew Factory, I knew it needed a home in my closet and I knew I’d be wearing it for Easter. (Side note, I actually don’t have much purple in my closet and I have no idea why because it’s so pretty!) The familiar checked pattern that represents gingham is classic and charming. I love seeing classic photos from the 1950s and 60s of women styling gingham cropped pants, sleeveless tops, and dresses. Wearing this pattern always gives me a boost of confidence because I know it will always be stylish and classy.

This top paired with white denim and some easy flats (or even tennis shoes) is a perfect stay home Easter ensemble. It’s comfy yet stylish and classic. Adding a front tuck or simple knot in the front adds a little extra style.

Below are some links to more easy outfits you can wear for Easter at home.

Stay well friends!

Slainte,

Shannon

SHOP THIS LOOK!

Gingham Button-Up | White Denim | Earrings | KJP Bracelets

STYLE: THE 9-5 EDIT

Published on March 27, 2020April 13, 2020 by ShannonLeave a comment

WORK FROM HOME CASUAL

When I started this series last month, I didn’t anticipate the recent events that have taken hold of the world. In an effort to keep things normal, I’ve decided to continue this series and still keep styling work inspired outfits. And even though I’m now working from home, I still make a point to get up and get dressed each day (Click here to read my reasons why).

As I write this, it is not lost on me how fortunate I am that I am able to work from home. I want to express a heartfelt thank you to all of the essential workers who must still report to work and don’t have the option of staying home. I admire and appreciate your courage, strength, and sacrifice. Thank you for being on the front lines to protect and keep the rest of us well and safe.

This month’s 9-5 Edit is an easy and comfortable work from home outfit. When I’m working at home I like to be comfortable but still feel good. My go-to combinations are jeans with a cute top or blouse or a dress in the summer. This striped top from J.Crew Factory is so easy and effortless. I paired it with my blue denim, a striped headband (stripes on stripes and blue on blue!!), and my Keds. Simple, chic, and casual. Which are the three essentials when styling an outfit to work from home.

Below are a few other links with outfit inspiration when working from home.

Outfit Inspiration One

Outfit Inspiration Two

Outfit Inspiration Three

Outfit Inspiration Four

Outfit Inspiration Five

You can also shop the details of my outfit below!

Stay home, practice social distancing, and stay well friends!

Slainte,

Shannon

SHOP THE LOOK

STYLE: GET DRESSED

Published on March 24, 2020April 13, 2020 by ShannonLeave a comment

With the “Stay at Home” Order now officially mandated in Ohio, it’s more important than ever to establish a sense of normalcy and routine to our days. The easiest and one of the most effective ways to feel normal is by waking up and getting dressed each day.

I, for one, am much more productive when I’m dressed in everyday clothing. Plus, I just bought some new spring styles and with the weather getting warmer, I’m wanting to get outside and style my new pieces! Below I’m sharing three reasons why you should make an effort to get dressed, even in the most difficult and uncertain of times.

MORE ENERGY

It’s so easy to fall into the trap of throwing on yoga pants or sweatpants when you know you don’t have to leave your house. I’ve definitely fallen into this trap, but I’ve come to realize there is a real mental shift that happens when you put on real clothes. I always feel ten times more energized when I’m in jeans and black pants with a top or blouse. When I get up, shower, wash my face, and get dressed in normal clothes, our mornings tend to go a lot smoother, I have more energy, and we overall have a better day of playing and tackling life.

MORE PRODUCTIVITY

Getting dressed each day actually makes me a whole lot more productive. Whether I’m working from home or chasing after L, if I’m dressed, I’m going to get a heck of a lot more done around the house and check more boxes off my to-do list. When I throw on yoga pants and a sweatshirt, I’m much more tempted to lay around and not want to do anything. There is power in showing up for yourself and looking put together.

MORE CONFIDENCE

When you take the time to invest in and give attention to yourself, you are reaffirming your importance and self-worth in this world. At a time when we are being told to distance ourselves from others physically, we lose a very important part of the human element. Now more than ever we need to value ourselves, each other, and hold tight to the things that bring us joy. When you feel good, you are more confident and believe you can do anything.

Stay well and stay home friends!

Slainte,

Shannon

SHOP THIS LOOK:
J. Crew Factory White Denim | J.Crew Factory Blouse | LOFT Cardigan (Similar) | Keds | Rattan Bag

STYLE: STYLING LAYERS

Published on March 2, 2020April 13, 2020 by ShannonLeave a comment

You guys. Spring is JUST on the horizon and I’m so excited. If you have been following my blog for awhile, you know that I’m a warm weather girl. Usually by the beginning of March I’ve had it with old man winter and I’m ready to pack away my winter coats, boots, sweaters and everything in between.

But, living in Ohio, means that March comes in like a lion and out like a lamb. The first part of March is always cold, snowy, and miserable. I still have to dress warm, so if I’m not in the mood to wear a big, bulky sweater, then layering is my go-to.

Layering is actually often associated with minimalist style. Layering allows you to be creative in your look and pair classic pieces together in a fun, new way. You can play around with textures, patterns, and colors to create a look that is unique to you.

For this look I chose one of my denim button up shirts (by the way, a button up shirt refers to any shirt that buttons up the front, whereas a button-down is when the collar of a shirt can be fastened to the shirt via buttons) and layered it underneath one of my classic striped J.Crew shirts.

The key is making sure the layer on top is slightly larger than the layer on the bottom (you also want to make sure the sleeve lengths are different lengths – for this look I rolled up the striped shirt so you can see the denim shirt underneath). Otherwise you will feel very uncomfortable, and no one wants that. Fashion should be easy and effortless.

I added an additional layer with my puffer vest and even layered my puffer coat on top of that for more warmth. In these awkward transition months, layering really is the way to go. Especially when it’s frigid in the morning and warmer in the afternoon, being able to take away or add pieces of clothing is always a good idea.

Below are links to a few other layering ideas that I love and have recreated myself.

Layering Inspiration 1

Layering Inspiration 2

Layering Inspiration 3

Layering Inspiration 4

Happy layering!

Slainte,

Shannon