Stripes

The summer weather brings out bright, stand-out outfits. Stripes are a great to stand out in a crowd. What's interesting is that the stripes in most pieces I found most attractive are horizontal.

You'll find hats, maxi dresses and skirts, tops and even shoes with this pattern.  Feel free to mix and match with other patterns for an effortlessly chic look.

Stripes by chezlashay featuring a straw hat

Diane von Furstenberg cocktail dress
£187 - matchesfashion.com

Maison Martin Margiela striped dress
£125 - farfetch.com

Oasis striped dress
£60 - oasis-stores.com

French Connection long sleeve top
$70 - usa.frenchconnection.com

TopShop full skirt
$60 - topshop.com

Jessica Simpson platform high heels
$99 - heels.com

Lucy Barlow straw hat
$179 - barneys.com

Formal Wear

It's been a while since I entered am entry. I am back!!!!

I am going to a fabulous black tie dinner and dance in New York City next week.  Since this is a corporate event, I am going for a simply elegant look - a little bit of flash, but sleek and sophisticated. Here are a couple options. Tell me what you think:


Option 1: This was the first plan I had in mind. Black with flashy gold. The dress fits me well on top with the one-shoulder design (I just don't trust strapless dresses  - I tugged them constantly even if they are not threatening to be a wardrobe malfunction). It also fits me well through the waist and hips.

Tadashi Shoji one shoulder evening gown

$388 - nordstrom.com

Jimmy Choo leather shoes

$695 - saksfifthavenue.com

Menbur clutch

$144 - endless.com

Option 2: I just bought this one yesterday. I tried it on just because.  The saleslady told me that it had a Oprah-look.  I felt pretty in this one. Besides, it's contrasts against my dark skin. 

Kay Unger Dress by chezlashay featuring jeweled handbags

Kay Unger silk dress
$590 - saksfifthavenue.com

Jimmy choo heels
$950 - bergdorfgoodman.com

Jeweled handbag
$70 - nordstrom.com

Kay Unger silk dress
$590 - saksfifthavenue.com

Option 3: I just spotted this number online this morning.  I love the teal color and I love the mermaid design.

Gown
neimanmarcus.com

Jimmy choo sandal
$675 - saksfifthavenue.com

Box clutch
$70 - nordstrom.com

Stationery Designed by Sistas

Getting physical mail in my mailbox is so much fun.  Check out the stationery collections by Effie's Paper and She's Got Papers, two African-American stationery designers.  Sending a "thinking of you" note every now and then will really make your loved one's day....

Rose Gold Jewelry

Rose gold is back! I remember when I received a rose gold necklace for my 11th or 12th birthday.  The pieces below would be great statement pieces with an all white and all black outfit.

Rings by Soixante Neuf
Earrings by Ippolita