Photography by my bestie, Rachel Brooks .

You guys already know how much I love my coffee, and because it's a daily ritual of mine I tend to go on a lot of coffee dates. These photos were taken by Rachel from 5 o'clock Sunday, aka my bestie behind the camera most days. We were on our way to As Quoted, one of our favorite local coffee shops in Pacific Heights. You can catch me there devouring a sweet Maca toast at least 1 to 2 days a week so come say hello!

And I'll be honest, I'm usually running a bit behind when Rachel picks me up so anything easy, casual and comfy is my go-to. This outfit in particular is from my "Auntie's" shop. Honestly, there are times when a girl just does not want to squeeze herself into tight leggings and a crop top. That is why I was so drawn to this knit poncho and slouchy pant look.

I was worried that these earthy neutrals wouldn't feel feminine enough on me so I added an unexpected pop of baby pink. And that pink bag that you are drooling over right now? It's the Blake Collection from Teddy Blake and carries just about anything you can think of. The reason I love this brand is because the quality is really high while the price is shockingly less expensive than those high end designer bags. When I compare it to some of my luxury handbags I truly can't tell which is higher end. I suppose that's the key to great design, right? I also always try to buy bags in statement colors - like pink or blue - because it's an easy way to add interest to an otherwise neutral outfit but don't worry, this bag also comes in basic black.  

Oh and those shoes? Greats brand again, I wasn't kidding when I told you they were my new obsession. 

With love, Chantelle

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Rebecca Minkoff Chunky Knit Poncho • Rebecca Minkoff •
MICHAEL Michael Kors - Rivington Stud Medium Tote Tote Handbags • MICHAEL Michael Kors •
Superga 2750 Cotu Classic Sneakers • Superga •
Women's James Perse Pull-On Chinos • James Perse •
Just Jamie Fringe Knit Poncho •
Street Level Reversible Faux Leather Tote & Wristlet - Black • Street Level •
adidas Originals - Superstar Women's Tennis Shoes • adidas •
K-Swiss Premium Leather Court Classico Sneakers In Pink • K-Swiss •
Rebecca Minkoff V-Neck Knit Poncho w/ Looped Yarn Trim • Rebecca Minkoff •
Steve Madden Cori Tote & Pouch • Steve Madden •
Amy sneakers • Kate Spade •
Women's Eileen Fisher Slouchy Silk Crepe Ankle Pants • Eileen Fisher •
MICHAEL Michael Kors Michael Michael Kors Rivington Leather Stud Tote. • MICHAEL Michael Kors •

What I'm wearing this holiday season!

Party dresses are one of the most exciting parts of the holiday season. Each year, I look forward to having more than one excuse to pull out the heels and get dressed up. This year, I loved my outfit choices so much that I decided to share them with you on a special Holiday Dress-Up post. I've also included some alternative options for each look that almost made the cut. 

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Holiday Party with Friends

All photography by Rachel Brooks of 5 o'clock Sunday

Rock the red

it's the color of the season for a reason ladies. 

I mean, this outfit speaks for itself. The minute I saw it on the rack I knew I had to have it. There is a subtle hint of sexy with the lace bodysuit but it's surprisingly modest when you put it on. I couldn't wait to find a party to wear this little number to. When I saw the red leather jacket to go with it, I was absolutely ecstatic! I paired it with my favorite gold Gorjiana earrings, a simple gold Motif necklace, and my go-to nude Ego stilettos to elongate my short little legs with such a long skirt. Scared of an all red Christmas outfit? Don't be! Nothing is more festive and this is the one time of year that red actually helps you blend in rather than stand out. This is the perfect statement-making look for a holiday party with friends.

Shown in this look:

GUESS Women's Casper Scuba Moto Jacket • GUESS •
GUESS Tony Lace Bodysuit • GUESS •
GUESS Women's Selena Lace Skirt • GUESS •
Cayne Crescent Pendant Necklace • Gorjana •
Sam Edelman Patti Leather Sandals • Sam Edelman •
GUESS by Marciano Women's Jasmeen Lace Maxi Dress •
GUESS by Marciano Women's Aisha Lace Skirt •
Bagatelle Faux Leather Moto Jacket • Bagatelle •
Halogen Horizon Disc Pendant Necklace • Halogen •
Office Hallucinate strappy heels • Office •
Warehouse Vinyl Faux Leather Jacket • Warehouse •
Love...Ady Chemical Lace Midi Slip Dress •
bebe Lace A-Line Dress • Bebe •
NSR Floral Lace Midi Dress • NSR •
BAUBLEBAR Moonstruck Layered Necklace, 18-21" • BaubleBar •
Elise Strappy Point Toe Pumps • French Connection •

Shop similar items below:

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New Year's Eve on Vacation

I’ll be in Hawaii this year for New Years, so I needed something festive but comfortable and not too warm. This dress had all the pizazzyou want when ringing in the New Year. It is also the perfect shape for an event with my in laws (who I will be traveling with). You don't need to add much to make this outfit complete, which is exactly why it was perfect. Add some beachy waves, some fuzzy Ego shoes, a slew of layered necklaces and let those stars do the talking for you. Oh, and I can't forget my favorite Auguste clutch.

Hint: If you are spending your holiday somewhere a bit colder, add a giant fur coat and some sky high booties for an equally perfect pairing. 

Effortless but beaded

didn't think there was such a thing? Meet this simple beaded slip dress. 

Shown in this look:

GUESS Sierna Beaded Star Dress • GUESS •
FOREVER 21 Faux Fur Velvet Strappy Heels • Forever 21 •
Elizabeth and James - Greene Embellished Crepe Mini Dress - Black • Elizabeth and James •
Qupid Combo Lace-Up Sandals • Charlotte Russe •
Haute Hippie Sequin-Embellished Beaded Silk-Chiffon Mini Dress • Haute Hippie •
Charles by Charles David Kandy Block-Heel Pom Pom Sandal • Charles by Charles David •
W118 By Walter Baker Kora Beaded Crepe De Chine Mini Dress •
Loeffler Randall Nicolette Fox Fur Heel • Loeffler Randall •
Joie Sanibel Fringed Beaded Gauze Mini Dress • Joie •
Schutz Lori Suede & Rabbit Fur Heels • Schutz •

Shop similar items below:

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Holiday Party with Family

Hanger appeal vs. Real Life

this dress is exactly why you try things on. It's so flattering!

This dress’ hanger appeal vs. real life appeal was insanely different. I loved it when I saw it but I cannot express how much more I fell in love with it once I put it on. The shape of it, the cut, the neckline - oh my goodness. The waist line hits at the perfect place at my natural waist. A perfectly placed waistline is the key to making you look as trim as possible, and the slit elongates your legs in the best way! I wanted to down play the sparkles making it a bit more subdued. To achieve this look, I added a chunky Gorijana necklace, and my red-hued Auguste clutch.

Plus, I added my favorite part, the velvet mules I designed myself from Shoes of Prey. This company is makes shopping much more fun with anyone with an itch to create that shoe you've been dreaming of but just can't seem to find anywhere. First, you choose a type of shoe and then pick whatever color/colors you’d like it to be. It’s so fun, and they are insanely comfortable and unique shoes. 

Shown in this look:

Red Sequin Wrap Hem Midi Dress • Missguided •
ASOS Petite ASOS PETITE Sequin Cami Wrap Midi Dress • Asos •
boohoo Petite Laura Sequin Wrap Front Midi Dress • boohoo •
Anthropologie Belinda Clutch • Anthropologie •
Sole Society Karen Faux Leather Envelope Clutch - Black • Sole Society •
Sole Society Velvet Foldover Clutch - Red • Sole Society •
Pave Stone Tassel Layering Necklace Set • LOFT •
Crescent Moon Necklace •

Shop similar items:

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Drinks with Friends

This two piece set from Show me Your Mumu is the perfect slightly casual holiday dress. Mumu is one of my favorite brands and they have expanded their style soooo much in the last year. This crop top also has shorts to go with it, if you prefer. I threw on stilettos by ego to dress it up, but my go to probably would have been some open toes booties, depending on the occasion of course! My star necklace from
Gorjiana is a new fav. So simple and gorgeous. I clearly have a crush on that brand as well ;)  

Shop this look:

Barcelona Skirt ~ Risque Rose • MUMU •
Penelope Crop Top ~ Risque Rose • MUMU •
Halogen Horizon Disc Pendant Necklace • Halogen •
Sam Edelman Patti Leather Sandals • Sam Edelman •
Super Slip Dress ~ Risque Rose • MUMU •
Crescent Moon Necklace •
Show Me Your Mumu Super Slip Dress • Show Me Your Mumu •
Cayne Crescent Pendant Necklace • Gorjana •
Tamara Top ~ Risque Rose • MUMU •
Sawyer Short ~ Risque Rose • MUMU •

Shop similar items below:

Happy Holidays!

Kisses, Chantelle

Fall '17 Trends Styled My Way

Here were are, talking about fall trends once again; and today I'm tackling multiple trends in just two looks. I know, I'm a bit of an overachiever. Some of my favorite key items this fall have been statement-making tops, asymmetrical cropped jeans, 70s throwback styles and my absolute favorite fall trend: luxe slippers. Once again, I've tried to make each of these trends my own by adding a bit of color, playfulness and California girl casual.

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Trend 1: Statement Tops and Asymmetrical Cropped Jeans

All photography by Rachel Brooks of 5 o'clock Sunday and Breana Taylor of Brilliantly Bre.

Wear it with

a statement top and luxe slippers. 

This outfit is so versatile which is one of the reasons I wanted to feature it. Not only can it be worn from day to night but it's also a fashionable alternative to my typical jeans and t-shirt casual attire. Now let's talk about these slippers which are so comfortable and have become a surprising staple in my fall wardrobe. I was shocked at how many compliments I've received since I've been wearing them, from men especially. My fiancé absolutely loves them and they add that necessary playfulness to this classic outfit. I also chose to pair these jeans with a statement-making striped shirt with giant bell sleeves. This shirt is such a great find at only $10.99. These cropped denim jeans by AG are so incredibly figure-flattering. Choosing a high-waisted pair denim adds the illusion of an extra few inches of height-- which for those of us under 5' 7" is always accepted without complaint! 

Shown in this look:

Striped Statement Top

Assymetrical Ankle Crop Jeans

Luxe embroidered slippers

Shop similar items below:

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Trend 2: 70s Chic

I love incorporating a good John Lennon inspired pair of sunglasses in my daily rotation for an ode to 70s style. I paired these bright pink Ray Ban shades with a cropped fringe sweater and simple high-waisted skinny jeans. I used a monochromatic color palette to help incorporate my love for color into this throwback look. It's also a fresh take on a classic trend. 

Wear it with

high waisted jeans.

Style Tip: A monochromatic color palette modernizes this look. 

Shop this look:

High-waisted skinny jeans (Currently on sale for $16.25) USE CODE: FASHION for an additional 10% OFF

Cropped and fringed sweater in Pink (Currently on sale for $11.49) USE CODE: FASHION for an additional 10% OFF

Note that I love this fringe sweater so much that I have it two colors. Here is another outfit option with the grey version that you can find here.  

Shop similar items below:

LOVE 21 Distressed Boxy Sweater • LOVE21 • $22.90
Ray-Ban - Round-frame Gold-tone Mirrored Sunglasses • Ray-Ban • $180
Honey Punch Relaxed V-Neck Sweater In Distressed Rib Knit • Honey Punch • $48
Elizabeth and James Women's Mott Round Sunglasses • Elizabeth and James • $79.97
Melissa Mccarthy Seven7 Plus Dark Denim Jeans • Melissa McCarthy • $49

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I always want to give a big thanks to Breana from Brilliantly Bre for helping take some of these photos because blogging is always more fun with buddies. So, what do you guys think about these trends, would you wear them? Which trend was your favorite and which new trend would you like me to try next? Leave your ideas and suggestions in the comments below!

With love, Chantelle

What I wore for Friendsgiving... a budget friendly OOTD. You can thank me later, and ice-cream is appreciated. 

Can you believe this OOTD is under $100?

Why else would I be smiling?

So I'm never one to shy away from paying for that one perfect piece that I know I'll love forever, but I will say that I much prefer adorable fashion finds that don't cost an arm and a leg. I especially love this when trying out trends that come and go quickly like these fringed denim pants. I still find it hard to believe that this whole entire outfit can be purchased for under $100 total and look this luxe on. Just to be sure, I put it through the hardest test I could find... Friendsgiving with some of my most stylish friends. I have to be honest with you, there were more than a few "where did you get that" comments. 

Shop this look

Cropped and Fringed Denim Pants $21.34

Embroidered Booties $33.99

Cropped White Sweater $27.99

Fringe Earrings $3.41

+ 10% discount when you use my code! 

Code: FASHION

 Total: $78.05 ...Happy shopping!

With love, Chantelle

Fall '17 Trends Styled My Way

If you are anything like me, you find runway trends intriguing in concept but hard to pull off once you bring them home from the store. I love playing dress-up, don't get me wrong, but sometimes trying out a new trend feels a little like putting on someone else's costume for the day. It's hard for me to take the risk of looking like someone else, rather than staying true to my own personal style. That's why this season I challenged myself to take some of fall's trickiest trends and style them up so that they could be seamlessly integrated into my day-to-day wardrobe. 

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Trend 1: The Midi Skirt

All photography by Rachel Brooks of 5 o'clock Sunday and Breana Taylor of Brilliantly Bre.

Wear it with

a cropped sweater and wool wide brimmed hat for a touch of California wine country cool. 

I've always found the midi length trend tricky at my height but the key to this look is some heels and a flirty edge. These full skirted midis from Zaful are adorable and shockingly flattering on. The only issue I have is that they tend to make me look shorter than I actually am. That's why I keep them high-waisted and always throw in a good heel. For the first look I took note from Northern California wine country and kept the colors neutral and the accessories a bit rustic. I absolutely loved pairing this modest cut skirt with something a bit sexier like this grey cropped sweater. Just a hint of skin modernized this look and kept it feeling California casual. 

Shown in this look:

Midi skirt

Cropped grey sweater

Wide brimmed hat

Leather gladiator booties

Shop similar items below:

Hello, World!

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Trend 2: Pretty in Plaid + Midi Skirt

It's okay, we have all thought it before, plaid can sometimes make you look at bit like a librarian. Always one to step up to the challenge, I decided to make this trend extra difficult by combining plaid AND midi length. My solution to add some edge to an otherwise conservative look? Layer on the accessories, add a pop of color with a statement shoe and throw in one of my favorite graphic tees. The result? One touch Carrie Bradshaw, one touch Zoe Deschanel and I'm completely into it. 

Wear it with

layers of eclectic jewelry and statement-making heels.

Shown in this look:

Midi skirt

"BASIC" Graphic Tee

Blue Fringed Statement Heels

Fringe Earrings

Shop similar items below:

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Trend 3: Suede Mini Skirt

Wear it with

textured knits.

As you've probably noticed, mini skirts are a staple in my wardrobe. They have become a bit trickier to make seasonally appropriate with my move to Northern California and the much cooler weather. I absolutely love this trend and the lace up details of this sueded skirt and decided to pair it with textured knits to make it more fall weather friendly. 

Shown in this look:

Wide Brimmed Hat

Grey Slouchy Sweater

Sueded Mini Skirt

Slouchy Socks

Booties with Side Detail

Shop similar items:

And that's a wrap...

Stay tuned for Fall Trends "My Way" Part 2 where I tackle nautical stripes, fringed jeans and more. 

Photography by Nathan Martell

Shop this look

I'm obsessed with these embroidered jeans from Shop Resurrection. There are comfortable and add something a little extra to my everyday denim look. I wore this outfit while shooting with Bedstu in Los Angeles and it was the perfect California fall look. Shop alternatives to these pieces above or check this out for another way to style your embroidered denim jeans. 

With love, Chantelle