Roses Are Red

Never one to turn down a graphic print, this rose print dress from Forever21 is tea party worthy. Okay, so I have never actually been to a tea party, but does drinking tea on the daily with my Brit count?

I'm not sure how often I'll be wearing dresses now that it's dropped to 40 degrees in New Jersey. I got away with wearing this dress without a jacket on the weekend when during a brief warm front. But, I don't want to give up on my frocks completely. 

Dresses, to me, are instant style makeover pieces in the sense that I can wear pants all week, but the minute I put on a dress - it's like I've rediscovered my girly side. For me, I love styling uber feminine dresses and incorporating darker, rougher elements for contrast. There's just something about these Mary Janes from Shoedazzle that remind me of ridiculously high Gothic shoes dominatrix wear... Not that I'd know what they wear. It's probably the laces...

Wait, how'd I go from tea parties to dominatrix?

Rose Print Dress - Forever 21 / Spanx Ready To Wear Riding Leggings  - c/o Spanx / Faux Croc Skin Mary Beth Shoes - Shoedazzle.com / Black Satchel - Zara (old) / Red Statement Necklace - c/o SiraMira.com

Feeling Lovely in LuLu*s

November is turning out to be a month of newness for me. In just the first week, I started a new job and celebrated another birthday. Off to a giddy start, one of which I hope to continue on my style journey.

It's officially jacket weather in New Jersey, and boy do I have the perfect one for it. On a trip to New York after LuckyFABB, I attended an intimate gathering with LuLu*s where I finally got to meet Julie of Orchid Grey (she is as fab as you think she is), and the adorably rad ladies of LuLu*s. At the event, I was gifted this amazing black jacket with faux fur trim that has become my official fall coat. I normally don't use belts with coats, but when I tie this one, it takes on a vintage classic feel that instantly adds femininity to anything I pair with it.

A coat this chic deserves to be photographed in a place of equal beauty. All week, I've driven past this gorgeous field of yellow leaves on my way to work, and knew I had to take photos there for the blog. For some reason, I felt like twirling... I mean, when you're wearing something you love, and you're in a place this beautiful, it's only appropriate!

Fur Give and Fur Get Black Frock Coat - c/o LuLu*s / Striped Pants - c/o Boohoo.com / Studded Doctor's Bag - VJStyle.com / Seychelles Best Laid Plans Quilted Wedge Booties - c/o South Moon Under  / Purple Sweater - Gap / Necklace - Francesca's / Rings - Forever21

Fall Spotlight Style: Oxfords

Oxfords, brogues... Whatever you call them, I love mine. Although Fall is typically a time when women live in booties, I find myself wearing oxfords any chance I get. 

Not convinced? Celebrities like Alexa Chung, Sienna Miller and Sarah Jessica Parker have all been spotted wearing em. 

Oxfords have deep roots in menswear, hence, the reason why you'll see either name when shopping for a pair. AND, the reason why some women shy away from em. A classic oxford is usually leather and features a round toe. 

However, ladies, you can get in on this menswear turned womens wear fad thanks to prints, details, metallic leather, and even wedge and heel versions! If there's any season to try out oxford shoes, it's Fall. Trust me on this... 

What I'm Celebrating On My Birthday

So, today is my birthday! And not to sound like a complete and total narcissist, but I absolutely love celebrating my birthday. It's the one day that really is all about you - and sometimes, being a little selfish in that respect. 

But this year for my birthday, I'm celebrating the fact that change has come my way. Finally. For starters, I got a new job! This was a much needed change, if not one of the most important change, as my job was playing a huge role in causing me stress. But, now, I get to start a new month and write a new chapter in this book called life.

The second thing I'm celebrating is my having supportive friends and family. During some of my struggles this year (which I've kept away from House Of Jeffers), I've had people in my corner standing beside me, encouraging me to believe in myself and to give myself a little more credit, showing me support by letting me lean on them when I felt I couldn't carry some of my burdens. I am so lucky to have a wonderful husband, parents, family, friends and readers who continue to remind me of what's important in life. Having this foundation is the most meaningful, and I never take for granted how fortunate I am to be surrounded by truly selfless individuals who show me love.

Oversized Cardigan - Forever 21 / Polka Dot Tee - Old Navy / Brown Leather Skirt - Forever 21 / Black Double Fringe Leather Bag, Beaded Hamsa Bracelet, Black Leather Bracelet - Brandy Melville / Black Suede Booties - Target

And finally, I'd be lying if I said I wasn't celebrating my birthday gifts, some of which I'm wearing... I've been pining for a fringed bag, and my mother was kind (and cool, might I add) enough to buy me this one from Brandy Melville, along with the leather bracelet and beaded hamsa bracelet! 

The Skinny on the SPANX Booty Bash

My perception of SPANX has changed forever. While women everywhere know them as THE place to go to when you're looking for something that will help you get a little lift here, some extra hidden support there... But after hosting the SPANX Booty Bash event at the Garden State Plaza location in Paramus, NJ, I view the brand as one that empowers women to flaunt their best selves... with a little extra help.

The store is a girly-girl dream filled with uber feminine decor. 

The Tower of Power - It's even more adorable in person! 

I played MC and resident New Jersey fashion blogger for a day that included stylish SPANX presentations, raffle giveaways and fun! From mystery gift cards, to raffle winners choosing something from the Tower Of Power, it was so much fun to interact with shoppers who were on the hunt for a little something extra, or to try out a pair of SPANX denim leggings.

Part of my hosting duties was offering style advice on how to pair SPANX leggings, hosiery, shape wear and apparel. This look was my favorite as it featured chevron patterned tights paired with shorts and a chic button-front blouse. 

I'd like to send a huge thank you for everyone at SPANX and the adorable, friendly staff at Garden State Plaza for making me feel so welcome! I had so much fun playing host for the day, and can't wait to get back to the store to see what else is new!