Play the Print Game: ShoeDazzle Pops with Bold 2015 Collection

This upcoming spring and summer will be all about prints -- and how well you are able to master mixing and matching them is entirely up to you. If you fare on the side of the conservative, then maybe your shoes will be the only prints donned in your wardrobe. However, if you're like many of the daring and trendy darlings, then not only will your shoes pop with prints, but your accessories and apparel will as well. (Click here to read my article on 2015 spring trends)

For a little "mix me, match me" #inspo, check out the latest in ShoeDazzle's 2015 collection. From reptile prints to splashes of floral to chevron waves, one thing is clear -- everyone's "going to print." Here are some of my favorites that I can't wait to pair:

Zelda by Scene VIP Price $39.95

Keely by Madison VIP Price $39.95

Estelle by Paper Fox VIP Price $49.95

I really suggest checking out Shoedazzle when you can. I've mentioned it to you guys before, but it really is one of my go-to sources for not just shoes that are on trend and of quality, but also available at an affordable price. Headed up by chief stylist and my ultimate style icon Rachel Zoe, "Shoedazzle brings you a personal stylist experience by curating major trends, in shoes and more, and showing you what works for your style..." Check it out today and get a fix for your shoe addiction at www.shoedazzle.com.

Images provided courtesy of Shoedazzle.

Mercedes Benz Fashion Week SS15: Haze Collection

Shades are the new black--and for those of us who may have a slight addiction to accessories (myself included), we are much aware that the perfect pair of shades can upgrade any outfit from drab to fab within a matter of seconds. I now introduce you to the Haze Collection--a collection that I was able to view during New York Fashion Week on September 5, 2014 at the Hudson Hotel.

While apparel is said to have its seasons and trends, the same can be said for shades or "sunnies" as the fashionistas would like to call them. Over the past year, there has been an upsurge in the aviator shades trend with the reflective and color-stained lenses. Hopefully this too will pass (aviators are everywhere!) but another overarching trend in shades have definitely been "the bigger, the better".

Although the Jackie-O oversized shades trend is one that I don't see dying down anytime soon, it does appear that lens sizes for shades in the future are slimming back down but the overall styles of shades are becoming even more grandiose.  Pops of colors in neons are in with even more selections of lens colors from bright gold hues to bright bronzes.

Whatever your preference may be, Haze has an assorted collection of sunnies that are perfectly matched with what you already may have in your wardrobe. From t-shirts and jeans to leather with an edgy flair, my current fashion obsession is definitely with Haze. Enjoy a sneak peek as to what you can expect from Haze for this upcoming spring and summer and dive even further by searching their current collection here online.

All images taken and to be credited by: Leah Frazier

Katydid Collection: Prints and Colors and Patterns, Oh My!

August is just a couple of days away and for us Texans, we only know that means that warmer weather is here to stay. Not so much as a breath of cold air will be coming into these parts for months and months down the road. With that being said, I was so happy to discover the Katydid Collection several weeks ago--a collection that combines some of the latest in trends: tribal and aztec prints, pops of beachy colors and monogram logos.  

The discovery of this collection matched perfectly with the current weather situation here in Dallas, so here is how I styled some of my favorite looks from the collection. The first is my day look, the second is a close-up of the Katydid accessories and lastly the last look is how I styled my Katydid romper for a night out on the town with my new "friend." Enjoy!  For more on the Katydid Collection, visit www.katydidcollection.com.

Day Look: Plain White Tee tucked into Katydid Aztec "Beach Getaway" Collection Shorts; paired with an infinity scarf and platform heels

A close-up of the Katydid Monogram Necklace in Silver representing "L" for the first initial in my name.  I've always wanted one of these...so happy I finally have one!

Loving this Katydid Chevron Romper that I wore to a local fashion show. I paired with coral and cognac colors to provide a colorful contrast.  This romper is also a part of the Katydid "Beach Getaway" collection. As you can tell, the romper is perfect for us tall girls. I'm 5'11 but with these heels I was surely 6'3...oh my!

All Day Look Photos Taken By: Ashleigh Ray

Fashion Find: Caravelle Watches and Susu Handbags

I always tell my clients that accessories are key to the completion of any outfit--and not to be completely overbearing or overdone either. I have a "rule of three" when it comes to accessories so that I don't over-accessorize and completely ruin a perfectly good outfit. (See my article on Examiner.com here for more info on the rule of three.) It's actually an old styling principle but it still holds true today.

In light of my obsession with accessories, I'm giving you guys a peek into the newest family members for my accessories collection: my rose gold Caravelle New York watch and my turquoise Susu Handbags clutch. My Ellie Kai dress provides the perfect background for these two to easily demonstrate why accessories (but not too much) are the key to truly completing an outfit.

Rose Gold Caravelle Watch, Stella and Dot serpent bracelet, Susu Handbags Clutch, Dress by Ellie Kai / Photography By: Thomas Garza Photography

Caravelle New York watches are completely affordable ranging anywhere from $59 to $150. I always get compliments on my Caravelle watch because it exudes luxury and is quality made. Rose gold is completely in right now so I wear this watch pretty often.  Check out their selection of fabulous his and hers watches on their website.

Caravelle Rose Gold Chronograph Watch - $135

My Susu Handbag was a definite surprise for me. This sturdy and durable clutch is as simple as it comes, however I receive many compliments on the clutch because of the material and quality--which makes it pop. It's the perfect addition to any outfit and exhibits a great statement without overpowering the outfit. For more information on Susu Handbags, check them out here! I love their handbags and definitely plan on purchasing more.

Susu Clutch as pictured above but in black / Available on website now for $59

These two babies are my fashion finds for the summer...I'm so excited to see what my finds will be for the fall and winter seasons...hmmmm...you'll just have to keep locked in to see!  Happy shopping! 

Summer Fashion Find: Hobo Lexa Crossbody Bag

Summers for me are full of all sorts of outdoors activities. From music and art festivals to outdoor barbecues to pool parties with friends, summers are all about being simple and enjoying some fun in the sun. Since last year, I've been on the hunt for the best crossbody bag to carry all of my essentials as I venture from festival to festival....and I'm so happy to announce that I've found it.

I was walking on the floor of the Dallas Galleria location of Belk, when I saw the Hobo Lexa crossbody bag. I tried it on and immediately fell in love. It was large enough to hold everything from my cell phone, keys, makeup, etc. and light enough where I could literally carry it around all day with no problems. Available in 6 colors and made of 100% leather--I'm going to be sporting this crossbody bag all summer long.

Visit the Hobo website today and check out their incredible crossbody bags as well as their other clutches and handbags. 

                         All photos taken by: Thomas Garza for Thomas Garza Photography

Experiencing Ellie Kai: A Must for Every Woman's Wardrobe

Just as Diane von Furstenberg was revolutionary for women's fashion in her creation of the iconic wrap dress, I predict and will stand firm by it that Ellie Kai is not too far behind in being one of the top brands to truly fit a woman's body like a glove. When I first experienced Ellie Kai, I was invited to an exclusive trunk show at the Rosewood Crescent Hotel. I had a million things to do that day (as always), so really only had planned to walk in, browse and pick up a lookbook to go through later. Need I say...this did not happen.

Necklace and serpent bracelet: Stella and Dot, Shoes: Nine West (old), Clutch: Susu Handbags, Shades: Banana Republic (old), Rose Gold Watch: Caravelle New York

I chose two colorful prints from the Ellie Kai collection to try on. One was a bold turquoise dress covered in chevron prints and the other was a blend of navy, cream and pinks in chevron prints. The material was as smooth as butter and included nylon to create the perfect stretch over my body. I'm a rather curvy girl with a little junk in my trunk. When I say that every single dress that I tried on, fit me perfectly with no alterations needed, I was completely in awe.

I began to wonder. Why have I never heard of Ellie Kai?  Then I started thinking of my clients...every one of these women needs these dresses in their wardrobe!  The collection has everything from business casual looks to vacation maxis and even blouses and skirts! 

What I love most about Ellie Kai and what I really try to embed in each and every one of my clients is the concept of individuality and exclusivity. With an Ellie Kai dress, you get to choose the fabric, choose the color, prints and the style. It would be extremely rare that I would walk up and down the streets of Dallas and see another woman in my exact same dress--something that I adore. On top of the fact that the dresses are custom-made to order, it completely ensures that my dress will fit my body perfectly.

As I predicted earlier, once more women catch on to Ellie Kai, it will be a complete domino effect. Pieces are online and available via trunk shows. For more information on this cutting edge brand, please visit www.elliekai.com.

All Photos Taken By: Thomas Garza for Thomas Garza Photography

Alice and Olivia Trunk Show at Tootsies May 29 - 31

Starting today through May 31st, one of my favorite brands Alice + Olivia will be debuting their summer trunk show at Tootsies in the Preston Center. The collection features everything from sheer hi-lo silhouettes to the increasingly popular nude palettes for this spring and summer. My favorites are definitely the maxi print dresses bursting in either bold orange and yellow florals to basic black and whites--all a slated must-have for your wardrobe as seen on the runways in New York for the Spring/Summer presentations for Fashion Week!

Noted as one of my favorite brands available at Tootsies, this summer trunk show will be available through May 31st. Click here for a quick look at what's in store as well as some of my faves from the collection below. Happy shopping!

Two-Toned Dress

Paint Splatter Dress

"All I Ever Wanted" boxy tank with Arthur Pant sans cuff

Stace face tank and two-tone mini

Flamingo pattern top and Khaki mini

All images used courtesy of Tootsies and Alice + Olivia through francisco+co

This Chic is Bananas, No Really She Is: Shirin Askari Spring Summer Collection Tee

I was first introduced to Dallas designer and previous Project Runway Season 6 contestant Shirin Askari as I toured the different showrooms during Market Week at Dallas Market Center. Shirin showed us her new Spring/Summer 2014 collection which included a ton of colorful prints and patterns and then I saw this shirt "This Chic is Bananas"...which stuck out like a sore thumb but I loved it! When you're at the showroom, it's typically for buyers or retailers to purchase apparel..not just regular ole Joe Shmoe's like you and me to go in and buy.  So I left the showroom with this shirt on my mind.

Yes, I'm sitting on a teddy bear in the middle of the park..straight randomness! / T-shirt, Shirin Askari / Skirt, H&M / Studded Heels, Nine West (old)

  Fast forward to several weeks ago, when Front Door Fashion announced that Shirin was going to have a trunk show at their showroom. SCORE! I already knew I was buying this shirt. It totally explains me to a "T". All of my friends know that I am completely cray...or bananas as either Rachel Zoe or the shirt would explain it.

So I bought the shirt and while it was a splurge for a basic tee, you really can't beat the quality and the softness of this t-shirt.  It's not 100% cotton so I don't have to worry about it shrinking and only getting one use out of it.  Also--I probably should have gotten the tee in a size smaller...it's super roomy, but hey...just in case I fatkid it up and gain weight, I have room, right?

It's easily paired with jeans or with a leather studded skirt like I have on.  Put on a colorful bauble necklace to add color and you're good to go!

Anyways, check the Shirin Askari collection out and let me know if you're feeling the newest addition to my t-shirt collection.

*All images taken by Thomas Garza for Thomas Garza Photography*

Suburbia Music Festival: Where Dallas Fashion and Festival Style Collided

Suburbia Music Festival took over Oak Point Nature Preserve in Plano, Texas from May 3 - 4, 2014. Line-ups included my personal friend and local musician, Larry g(EE), all the way to mega artists J. Cole and the awesomely talented David Guetta.  

This was my first festival experience and I must say that I had the time of my life. Suburbia was like the Dallas form of Coachella so everyone came out in floral prints, flower headbands, crop tops and everything to channel their inner boho style.  As for me, I knew it was going to be hot as heck, so instead of going naked, I just threw on some cut-off shorts, a bandeau top and a sheer floral print hi-lo tank for comfort.

When I wasn't sipping on Dos Equis and completely rocking out, I was able to capture some really cool and stylish Dallas folks reppin' their festival chic attire.  Check it out!

Festival Hair - Amber LaFrance of Culture-Hype PR

High-waisted shorts, crop top and booties...it's a "yes"!

For festival-goers Christie and Megan, it was all about crop tops, maxi dresses and prints!

Singer Larry g(EE) flanked by festival goers showing their crop tops, high-waisted shorts and let's not forget..fabulous accessories!

Tall girls rock! Dallas fashion bloggers Leah Frazier and Madison Hunnicutt

It's all about comfort when it's 90 degrees out and you're standing on your feet all day!

What?  You're not sick of us yet?  Me and my girl Amber posing one last time for ya'll!

Color Collision: Latino Fashion Week at Sisu Uptown Resort

I was honored to be attending and covering Latino Fashion Week on May 1, 2014 at Sisu Uptown Resort in Dallas. So what do you wear to an event that is outdoors, coined "fashion week" and surrounded by a swank and posh pool?  Well here's what I came up with.  I wanted to be colorful, vibrant and cool. I engaged in a little peek a boo action with my bra peeking through my sheer blouse--but all is fair in love and fashion right? Fashion is fun, fearless and all about taking risks. I topped my look off with this colorful and flirty bauble necklace by Prima Donna and I was just one big explosion of color--but they all ended up complimenting each other nicely.  I recommend trying these types of blends out if you tend to be timid with colors...you might just surprise yourself.

Studded Blouse: Daniel Rainn - Nordstrom Rack, Belt - The Limited (old), Floral Cream Skirt - The Limited, Peep Toe Pumps - Fergie Footwear from DSW, Bauble Necklace by Prima Donna, Earrings by Shop Jami / Photo Credit: Thomas Garza Photography

A closer look at my Prima Donna bauble necklace! / Photo Credit: Thomas Garza Photography

Left: Cesar Rolon, Co-Founder of Latino Fashion Week and me / Photo Credit: Thomas Garza Photography

Not So Nautical

The trend right now for spring and summer is everything nautical. From navy colors to stripes, I'm seeing tons of nautical-inspired fashions everywhere. Last week, I bought two skirts from The Limited which currently has a huge selection of blouses, skirts and dresses that flow well with the nautical trend. My outfit below started out nautical with my skirt but then I paired it with my cognac colored Via Spiga sandals and cognac belt and then it veered off into a completely different direction. Add in my mustard Brahmin bag and I'm everything but a nautical inspiration.  Oops!  Guess I'll just have to give the nautical look another try, another day.  But for now...I got a TON of compliments on my outfit and especially on my gladiator sandals...so I guess it was a hit after all!

My nautical meets gladiator look: Flower Necklace by Stella & Dot, striped tank from Nordstrom Rack, striped skirt from The Limited, belt from Nordstrom, gladiator sandals by Via Spiga, mustard shoulder bag by Brahmin