14

Aug

The LBD

 

Details: Dress via Nasty Gal // shoes, vintage BCBG // earrings, TJ Maxx

If you’ve read virtually any blog or fashion magazine, you know the “little black dress” is the well-dressed woman’s staple.  Attributed to Chanel and once meant to be a wear-anywhere piece, it symbolizes a fashion uniform that women can rely on in a pinch.

To be honest, I haven’t had an LBD that really fit the bill in years.  I’ve had wear-to-work LBDs, and those that were perfect for parties, but not one that I could grab that made me feel like ME. But when I saw this one online at Nasty Gal, I had to have it. It made me feel like a swan when I put it on. Yes, it’s daring.

I love the pleats, the midi-length, and even the open back and cape of this dress. Worn with a pair of vintage gold BCBG Max Azria sandals, simple gold hoops, a sleek bun and a red lip, I am dressed for reclaiming my time.

Confession: I often buy things for occasions that haven’t actually happened, like brunch with Oprah or a vacation on the Amalfi Coast.  But I plan to wear this to what is being billed as the “Party of the Year”:   the imerge Innovation Awards, an event celebrating Birmingham’s own innovators, creatives and entrepreneurs on August 23 at the Alabama Theatre. If you consider yourself a part of driving Birmingham forward, you should be there too.

XO // Alexis

 

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07

Aug

Take flight

 

The details: Blouse, SHEIN; Shorts, J. Crew (no longer available)

Spring and summer style has seen many trends, but none quite as special as the statement sleeve blouse. When I saw the Johanna Ortiz-version of this blue and white striped look on Sarah Jessica Parker several months ago, I was in love! Fortunately, SHEIN has an affordable option, and that’s where mine was found. I love the puffed and gathered lantern sleeves and the box-pleated peplum — so flattering! I can wear this with shorts (as seen), denim, or even a tailored skirt or slacks.

Stripes and gingham are a quintessential Southern staple, and this is a look I know I will keep in rotation. (Think you’re too old to pull this off? Think again: “Mama” Tina Knowles-Lawson was spotted in a look-alike top as well. Maybe you wouldn’t pair it with short shorts. But why not crisp cigarette pants or jeans? Go for it!)

Now all I need is a yacht…

See more photos over on SCDD’s Instagram account, and thanks for reading!

XO // Alexis

 

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24

Jul

Sunday Funday 

 

THE DETAILS: Earrings (sold out) & Tie-shoulder eyelet blouse by J.Crew  // “Gretel” slide by Ann Taylor  // Denim by AEO (old) //”Bien Fait” scarf by Madewell (old) // Japanese picnic basket, vintage from 5th Avenue Antiques

I generally hate taking photographs. It’s why you don’t often see “outfit of the day” posts here or on Instagram. I’ve also been reluctant to do them because this blog is to inspire you to reassess your own style, not necessarily to get you to buy what I’m wearing or to dress just like me.

But.

How do you know I practice what I preach? That I take risks, that I shop EVERYWHERE, that I mix high and low and vintage and that I love matchy-matchy looks? That I sometimes get it wrong, but when I get it right…it’s magic?

So.

Enjoy this post.

This is the perfect “Sunday Funday” look for me: broken-in jeans that I love and should’ve bought 6 pairs of, an eyelet blouse (easy to dress up or down) and comfy but chic flats. My clutch is one that is super popular right now. Cult Gaia makes an “Ark” bag that is absolutely breathtaking (I want the black acrylic, pink acrylic and mother-of-pearl!), but I found this one at 5th Avenue Antiques for $16!

XO, Alexis

Photography: Lexicon Creative 

 

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23

Jul

Tory Burch plans September 2017 opening at The Summit


This is NOT a drill:

The Summit will add a Tory Burch located between MAC Cosmetics and Ann Taylor–and it is scheduled to open in September 2017 (according to TB’s hiring website)! The lifestyle brand, including clothing, home goods, shoes, accessories,  activewear, watches and fragrances, is known for its prints and eclectic details. It is based on CEO Tory Burch’s life and loves, and is heavily influenced by her chic parents.

Burch built her billion-dollar empire from the ground up, and she’s leaving a legacy for other women entrepreneurs through the Tory Burch Foundation. The organization , which empowers women and girls to “Embrace Ambition,” provides resources including networking, mentoring and access to funding.

What I love about the line is the fine craftsmanship and the signature touches that make her pieces so distinctive. Let’s not forget, she helped make fitness wearables chic by re-imagining them as jewelry! We see a lot of Miller sandals and Reva flats here and the smaller handbags and clutches are quite popular for game day, so I imagine the line at the stores grand opening will be quite long. In my experience, not only are the designs beautiful, the stores are as well (with each having their own custom flair, as you can see in the pictures above) — and the customer service is superb.

If you’re interested, the store is now hiring sales associates and key holders. And to really get excited, click here to watch the Fall ready-to-wear show.

Stay tuned for updates!

All images via ToryBurch.com

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19

Jun

Shop Macy’s Backstage!

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Macy’s Backstage is now open at the Riverchase Galleria and Brookwood Mall, and we love it! Here are a few things you should know:

  1. If you like the thrill of the hunt, you’ll love the new Macy’s Backstage! It combines the best parts of department store and outlet shopping to offer shoppers great items at a fantastic value, in an easy to shop/easy to find environment. The store is bright and inviting and so much thought has been put into creating a “store within a store.” (An extra thoughtful touch: Macy’s Backstage includes authentic, gently loved high-end items from Louis Vuitton at competitive prices.)
  2. Macy’s Backstage refreshes its merchandise offerings with speed and style thanks to its stellar cast of sales associates, also known as the Backstage Crew. Fashion, home, cosmetics, gifts, pet accessories, active wear and jewelry all have a starring role on the selling floor, and at great savings. Taking “Center Stage” on the red carpet will be a special dedicated space in the store where the latest trends, themes and styles get top billing to inspire the shopper.
  3. Keeping an eye out for great finds and spotting trends, the Macy’s Backstage team curates each store to the fashion styles of the community it serves. Savvy shoppers will have a second chance to buy the sweater, handbag, dress and shoes they missed from last year, as well as new merchandise from the most coveted, cutting-edge designers, all at 20 to 80% off comparable department store prices.
  4. Shoppers will be able to use their Macy’s credit card and earn Plenti points at Backstage locations to enhance the customer experience between Macy’s distinct department and outlet – but no coupons or promo codes are used.
  5.  Macy’s Backstage is open now, so get to shopping! And if you see something you like, buy it — it might not be there if you leave it and come back.

We’re sending one Same Chic Different Day reader to shop at Macy’s Backstage with a $100 gift card! To enter, simply comment “Send me Backstage!” on this post! 

****Drawing concluded 6/19 at 7 p.m. CST. No further entries were included after that time. Thanks!****

For additional entries, follow SCDD on Instagram (@SameChicDifferentDay) and at our Facebook page.

One winner will be drawn and announced today at 7:00 p.m. CST. All decisions final. This contest has been sponsored by Macy’s, but all opinions are my own.

 

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25

Apr

Bargain Carousel is this week!

JLB_BargainCarousellogo

SCDD is sending one reader (and a guest) to Bargain Bash! Comment “Send me to Bargain Bash” on this post to enter (receive additional entries at the posts on Facebook and Instagram). Winner will be drawn on Wednesday, April 26.

Haute off the press (release):

For some there is nothing more fun than bargain hunting! What if you could find a wide variety of unbelievable items at low prices and buying them would mean you were improving lives for women and children? The Junior League of Birmingham’s (JLB) annual Bargain Carousel makes this shopping experience a reality.

Bargain Carousel will kick off on Thursday, Apr. 27 this year with Bargain Bash.

Bargain Bash is a casual cocktail party that offers first-chance shopping of Bargain Carousel items and impressive silent and live auctions including more than 150 items, such as original artwork and VIP travel packages. For shoppers wanting the best selection and smaller crowds, VIP admission is the best choice, with 6 p.m. entry at $40 a ticket. Shoppers receive one hour of early bird shopping before general admission patrons enter. All guests enjoy food, beverages and the auctions. VIP admission is $40 a ticket and general admission (7 p.m. entry) is $30 a ticket. All Bargain Carousel items sell for double the ticket price during Bargain Bash.

Everything IZ Inc., B&A Warehouse, and Ashley Mac’s will each be providing food at the event. Shindig’s Catering Food Truck will also be on-site during Bargain Bash.

Saturday and Sunday are a bargain hunter’s paradise, with more than 100,000 items for sale including art, appliances, furniture, heirloom items, baby and children’s clothing and furnishings, home décor, outdoors and sporting goods, and much more. Additionally, crafters and Pinterest lovers will be thrilled with the project pieces available. Bargain Carousel 2017 will begin on Saturday, April 29 (8 a.m. – 5 p.m.). Tickets from 8 – 10 a.m. are $10/ticket and from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. they are $5/ticket. It continues Sunday, April 30 (1 – 5 p.m.) with free admission and half price merchandise.

“Bargain Carousel’s purpose is two-fold,” said JLB volunteer and Bargain Carousel chair, Emily Norkus. “The sale raises money for the League’s 31 projects serving women and children in the metro area and it allows us to sell items at deeply discounted prices to individuals who can benefit from them.”

Bromberg’s is donating a John Hardry necklace that can be purchased during the Auction at Bargain Bash.

“Many people return to the event year after year,” said Norkus. “We have our Bargain Bash faithful who come in and buy antique pieces at double our retail price and we have hundreds of people who line up overnight for the general sale because they know they can get gently-used necessities at a price they can afford.”

Thanks to Brookwood Baptist Health™, Bargain Carousel will be held in Hoover just off of Exit 10 from I-459 in the old Princeton-Hoover location.

In 2016, more than 500 tickets were pre-sold the day before Bargain Carousel opened its doors. People began lining up the night before to reserve their spot to pre-purchase tickets. This year, the pre-sale will be held at the sale location on Friday, April 28 from 2 – 6 p.m., where shoppers may purchase up to four tickets at $10/ticket to the Saturday sale.

A special note for the Saturday sale, all tickets are numbered, and shoppers will enter Bargain Carousel in the order of their ticket number. For information about Bargain Carousel 2017, call205-879-9861, visit http://www.bargaincarousel.net, “Like” Bargain Carousel on Facebook, or follow @jlbbargaincarousel on Instagram.

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07

Apr

VBxTarget launches April 9. Here’s how to shop.

20150419-035429.jpgCalling all Target shoppers!

Just when I think I’m done with Target’s budget-friendly designer collaborations, they pique my interest (and pick my pocketbook) with something different. So here we are with Victoria Beckham’s new line, hitting the interweb and brick and mortar stores this Sunday, April 9.

If you’ve followed the shenanigans here for a length of time you know I’ve camped out at my local store for both the Neiman Marcus drop and the Great Lilly Pulitzer Disaster of 2015. If you’re planning to scoop some VB on the low (and are not a Redcard-holder who is shopping early!), I’ve got tips for shopping either online or in an actual store, because knowing is half the battle!

When shopping online (for the truly dedicated who like to shop in their pajamas):

  1. Review the list of items and zero in on what you want, whether it’s for women, babies or toddlers–there are over 200 items total in this collection reflecting Beckham’s design aesthetic and influenced by her daughter, Harper. I’ve narrowed my wish list to two pieces to preserve my sanity.
  2. Go ahead and register on Target.com so your information is saved. You would not believe how quickly stuff gets wiped out online, and the quicker you can complete your checkout, the better. Do not plan to browse for other random items and think your online cart is reserved or your feeling will be hurt
  3.  Be ready at your laptop at least 10-20 minutes before launch.
  4. Have your credit/debit card information handy.
  5. While you wait, check Twitter (#VBxTarget) for any news or reactions from other shoppers.
  6. Expect the items to drop at midnight PACIFIC TIME on Target.com and VictoriaBeckham.com. I’d have both sites and up and ready, just in case.
  7.  REFRESH REFRESH REFRESH!
  8.  SHOP ‘TIL YOU DROP!
  9. A note on free in-store pick-up at Target: I wouldn’t necessarily count on it being an option for this line. Be prepared to have your order shipped, and for these worst case scenarios: your cart may be canceled or your items may be backordered.  Hopefully Target has learned from previous experience and there won’t be many hiccups this time. Stay tuned.

When shopping in a brick and mortar (for those who enjoy the thrill of shopping like they’re on the streets Pamplona during the running of the bulls):

  1. Pro tip: Survey your local store (displays for the line are going up) or call ahead to politely inquire whether your favorite store will be selling items from the collaboration, and decide ahead of Sunday morning which store you will visit.
  2. Dress for the weather and the occasion. As you may have to beat a crowd when the doors open, this is not the time for four-inch heels and a heavy handbag. Be comfortably dressed, wear nonskid soles and streamline your accessories to a wallet or crossbody bag.
  3. Get to your local Target, early. And by “early,” I mean before daybreak (otherwise you could be at the end of a long line of shoppers and eBay resellers (*shakes fist*). Go prepared with something to sit on, a warm beverage and/or snack to keep you fortified, a book and your phone charger.
  4. Hit the bricks and claim a spot on the sidewalk.
  5. Wait patiently. Do not harass any employees who are arriving to work, and don’t be tacky and ask to be let in. (Go to the potty before you get to the store.)
  6. This should go without saying: be aware of your surroundings.
  7. When the doors open, don’t push or elbow. Make your way quickly to the section where your items are displayed. If you must run, God help you.
  8. Don’t snatch or grab from the clothing racks–and definitely NOT from other shoppers’ hands or baskets or shopping carts. It’s not attractive. And the store employees will have to clean up your mess, which isn’t nice.
  9. Be considerate in the dressing room. If you grabbed multiple sizes, try them on quickly. Don’t leave the dressing room in disarray. Try on your items quickly, return the item(s) you aren’t purchasing and move on.
  10. If you didn’t find what you were looking for, try your next closest store. And if you still come up empty-handed, keep checking as people often return items for days and weeks after a launch.

Happy shopping!

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05

Apr

Warby Parker opens in Birmingham April 8

The retail gods are answering prayers in Birmingham: we have a Trader Joe’s, H&M…and on Saturday April 8, we’ll officially have a WARBY PARKER!

If you aren’t familiar with the affordable and very chic purveyor of eyewear, you should be.  It launched in 2010 as an online destination for eyeglasses under $100, and quickly distinguished itself by offering eyeglasses people actually wanted to wear at (gasp!) prices they could afford.  The only hitch: there were no brick and mortar stores to try on the glasses, although you could make a selection to try on in the comfort of your home (and return the pair(s) that didn’t work.)

But now Warby Parker is opening its first store in Alabama, and at The Pizitz, no less. I toured the new digs and I have to say: I can’t wait to get my prescription filled.

The store is thoughtfully designed with tons of natural light (the better for trying on new frames). It feels more like you’re in a hip bookstore than an eyewear boutique, and this feeling is enhanced by multiple book displays, card catalogs (remember those?), globe lighting and even a Reference Desk, where you can receive help.  A bright blue mural balances the decor, which carries over into the classic, utilitarian unifoms designed by Whitney Pozgay (who we had the pleasure of meeting at a CFDA event in Atlanta years ago!).

The generous team at Warby Parker gifted me with a pair of “Pearl” sunglasses in Marzipan Tortoise, and I have to say: I’m in love with them.  I plan to add the “Tilley” (in Grapefruit Soda) to my collection next. The other thing I love about Warby Parker is they offer free returns and free shipping (always!), so you aren’t penalized for being indecisive! They will also repair your scratched lenses for free the first 12 months you own them.

To celebrate the brand’s new presence in the Magic City, a limited-edition pair of Birmingham-exclusive sunglasses, Madison in English Oak with Flash Mirrored Pacific Blue lenses, is being offered. And a lenscloth with a print of the mural is given away with each purchase.

Warby Parker at The Pizitz is located at 1821 2nd Avenue North / Birmingham, Alabama 35203. It’s open Monday through Friday, 11:00 a.m.–8:00 p.m. and Saturday through Sunday, 12:00 p.m.–6:00 p.m.

*I was not compensated for this post although I did receive a pair of sunglasses as a gift. The thoughts and opinions expressed in this post are my own.

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26

Dec

Be the Hostess with the Most-est!

Baby it’s (finally) cold outside! And that means entertaining has moved indoors. What’s better than enjoying food, friends and family, set in your comfortable home?  My grandmothers Mamie and Dorothy were fabulous entertainers, and they had a knack for sharing southern hospitality that just made family, friends and even strangers flock to their homes.

I’m missing both of them, and so I’m sharing what they taught me to keep their memories alive. You know if I’m doing something, I like to do it grandly, and that comes directly from them.

Incorporating any–or all–of these tips will help you entertain with flair, year-round:

  1. SET THE MOOD.  Add a soft around your home with lit candles. Choose scented pillars, votives or tapers in light spice or floral fragrance, and mix them with unscented varieties. I love to place these in my kitchen, guest bathroom, on my dining room table and around my living room–and even in groups inside my fireplace! Find inexpensive options at your local big box discount store, or in TJ Maxx or HomeGoods.
  2. SET THE TABLE. When entertaining, my grandmothers felt guests’ manners rose to the occasion, so having a formally set table encouraged better table manners.  Rather than pulling out folding trays, use your dining room table to its advantage. Pull out your best china, flatware and linen–or even nicer clear plastic plates–and add an inexpensive runner if you’re not using a table cloth, and use a simple but impactful floral arrangement. Serving buffet style? Upgrade your servingware with nicer platters and utensils. (Again, you don’t have to spend a lot.)
  3. ADD SUGAR AND SPICE. Have something sweet, savory and spicy to balance your guests’ palates with a varied menu. Whether it’s classic Chex Mix, a beautiful spread of cheese and fruit, or even old school gummy bears, have something for them to snack on, and serve it in an unusual fashion, like martini glasses! Affordable gourmet snacks can be found at your local grocer or discount home store.
  4. SIP SOMETHING SPARKLY. Serve some great bubbly, whether it’s an adult beverage, fizzy fruit juice or even carbonated water (just garnish it with lime!). Have a mix of options for guests who don’t imbibe, or who limit sugar from their diet. Serve in nicer glassware! Fun cocktail napkins are a fab touch, and a chic alternative to plain paper towels.
  5. DRESS YOUR BEST, BUT FOCUS ON GUESTS. Surely you knew an outfit would be in the mix! My grandmothers loved hostess gowns, glam caftans and luxe lounge wear. Even if you’re entertaining at home, rise to the occasion and get out of your yoga pants. Try a luxe pair of silk day-to-night cocktail pajamas or even a simple lace dress. I also love to throw one of my vintage aprons on for good measure (even if the pie I’m serving is Mrs. Smith’s!). Be comfortable and cute; don’t wear anything that you’ll tug or fuss with all evening.

True hospitality is not about how much you spend on linens or glassware. True hospitality is about the effort you put into making your guests feel especially welcome year-round.

Whether you’re serving ham sandwiches and store-brand soda or a spectacular gourmet seated dinner, you can do so with grace, intention and style–and that, darlings, is the most important thing.

Check out these retailers  when shopping to entertain: Swoozie’s, TJ Maxx, HomeGoods, Target, World Market, Fresh Market and Publix. They all have gourmet sections with food, beverage and/or decor that make an impact without putting a huge dent in your wallet. (And Etsy and eBay have awesome vintage aprons.)

Platter, vase and glassware via TJ Maxx; dress via J. Crew; apron via eBay; Champagne via Moet; Sugarfina gummy candy via Swoozie’s; Table runner  via HomeGoods; Hydrangeas via Publix

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07

Dec

European Wax Center to open in Birmingham

european-wax-center_logoY’all. I would say words can’t express how excited I am about this, but that’s not quite true and here we are with today’s post. Since I gave tips on not shaving last month, I thought I’d go in the totally opposite direction this time for those of us are into personal grooming.

When I was in New York last year, I was dying to visit the European Wax Center in Times Square but didn’t have enough time. Other friends have shared with me how professional the staff is, how professional the environment is, and how painless the process is–all things that are important to me. European Wax Center uses a stripless waxing method, which is said to be less painful and to remove more hair at a time.

I guess good things come to those who wait, because Fortunately, European Wax Center is now opening its first location in Birmingham (Tuscaloosa has one).  The new salon will be located in the Greystone area at The Village at Lee Branch Shopping Center on Highway 280 and Doug Baker Boulevard.  Ahead of its grand opening, a  Preview Week is planned in early to mid January. During the Preview Week, guests are invited to register to receive any of European Wax Center’s body or facial waxing services complimentary. To register, click HERE.

If you’re not in Birmingham but want to try European Wax Center at another existing location, you can still sign up to experience your first wax (brow, bikini line or underarm for ladies and ear, nose or brows for gentlemen) for free. In addition, European Wax Center offers Wax Passes for unlimited waxing, students and pre-paid services that generally include a few additional services thrown in for free. Packages can even be paid for in installments.

To sign up for the complimentary Preview Week offer, register HERE. And stay tuned for more details via EWC’s Facebook page, and yes–thoughts on my first experience!

(This is not a sponsored post, and I don’t receive anything if you sign up, get a free wax or buy a service or package. I just believe sharing is caring, and this is a potentially amazing service.)

Image via European Wax Center

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