Uncategorized – Page 9 – The Style Cake

Casual Friday: Office Appropriate

Posted on January 15, 2016 by The Style Cake

This is dedicated to all of my style friends out there that work in the office environment. When I worked in an office (I do still work in my own office), I couldn’t wait for casual Friday because I hated business wear. The thing is, even though as a staff we got to wear more casual attire, we still had guidelines to follow. The point of this outfit look is to actually show how you can be casual and stylish while still dressed appropriately for the office environment.

Since long line jackets are among my favorite pieces to keep in a wardrobe, I think incorporating such a thing in an outfit can automatically keep your look business-like without looking boring. Naturally, anything can rock a fresh pair of jeans I will so I opted for a pair from Forever 21. They cost about 10 bucks and are a basic wash denim. A basic wash doesn’t look to “decorated” that they detract from the business aspect of your look. I paired the jeans with a mock turtleneck top, white in color for a clean, fresh detail of the look. I added a scarf for esthetic and and comfort, another layer as well as an extra bit of (depth of) color. My boots are the rugged yet chic detail of my look. They boast an overt stitched, thick sole and fur at the outer inside area of the shoe as well as the tongue. I love this design of boot because it’s wet and snowy out. I won’t risk breaking my neck in heels with these! Let me know if you likey! I will see you guys back here tomorrow for a special (not really lol) post!

Later Cupcakes!

Jacket: Thrifted (similar here). Turtleneck: Thrifted (similar here). Scarf: (New) Goodwill (similar here). Jeans: Forever 21 (almost similar here). Boots: Target. Bag: H&M.

L-A-Y-E-R-S-!

Posted on January 14, 2016 by The Style Cake

Preface: I was supposed to upload this post yesterday but the post somehow got erased. I’m sorry guys. Trust me, I was beyond frustrated for the lack of a better word. Regardless, I still will be uploading Friday’s post.

There is no doubt in my mind that winter’s cold somehow forces the unintentional organic act of layering clothes and outerwear. The thing with layering is that it can be stylish regardless of the intentions of keeping warm. The beauty of being stylishly comfortable is that can evoke a major sense of creativity. You can truly find your sense of style in the process of layer clothing. Now, personally my sense of style has been evolving lately by each month but that is to be expected and moods of what you may like to wear for months, maybe even years at a time does indeed occur. My advice when layering is to be willing to experiment. For instance, don’t be afraid to mix not only prints but colors and even “styles”. I will discuss the generalized types of styles that exist in fashion in a (very near future) later post. Perhaps then, I will do my very first look book!!! Layering can involve more than one piece of outerwear, more than one shirt, more than one kind of bottoms and even only layering accessories. I chose to layer with outerwear and a blazer.

The weather has indeed been frightful, in fact it decided to snow on the day I wore this look. That being said, I knew that I wanted to wear my fur vest. This vest is so incredibly warm and allows for the rest of my look to still shine through. My blazer is an old one from Forever 21 and it also very warm. I didn’t feel the need of a coat seeing as that the vest and blazer provides so much warmth from the brisk air. I am wearing thermal leggings…tis the season for cozy (and publicly accepted) pants lol! I wore a ruffled front ribbed tunic to further block the cold air. I opted against jewelry because the focus is truly on my layering and the comfort of this look. I chose my fave clutch, very simple and doesn’t detract from the look at all. My boots add another layer to the look in that it seems to add “weight” to the bottom of the outfit by the look of the wedge. I hope you guys get where I’m going with this. Anyhoo, even the suede of the boots offers a layer sort to speak against the look of the fur. My goal was to create a balance throughout the look and still be cozy. This look is intentionally slightly masculine because I am in the woods (and I wanted to portray a lumber jack effect {insert wink smiley face emoji}) but you can make this look a bit more feminine by simply changing the hat and the color of the plaid shirt or blazer. So let me know what you think of this look!! How do you layer? What is your favorite way to keep warm? I will see you back here tomorrow…yep, I am still uploading Friday’s look!

Later Cupcakes!!

Black Ribbed Tunic: DOTS, (similar here). Vest & Blazer: Forever 21 (similar blazer here). Boots: Justfab (similar here). Leggings: . Hat: Boohoo (similar here). Earrings: H&M (similar here). Clutch: American Apparel.

All Black Everything

Posted on January 11, 2016 by The Style Cake

So here in Michigan, winter has finally decided to show up and show all the way out! It has been freezing and to be honest, I haven’t truly been in the mood for dressing up. In fact, I haven’t been in the mood to even go anywhere!! Yea, it’s that cold! If it doesn’t involve my pajamas, I’m not that thrilled about the destination lol. I guess it’s safe to say that my mood is properly expressed in this outfit, all black everything.

Beyond expressing my mood, there is genuine comfort in my look. Being lazy as I was, I still put thought into the look but I wanted to be cozy cute! My top…thrifted Goodwill, my pants…leather leggings by American Apparel and my boots from CiciHot are all layered in one of my fave winter coats purchased years ago from Burlington. This coat is 100% wool and boasts genuine fox fur around the collar and sleeve endings. Ahh, the warmth the fur adds to these places on the coat is truly unbelievable! A good faux fur works just as well if you’re fur conscious. I’ve had my coat for almost 20 years so it may be harder (unless thrifting) to find a coat like this for 99 bucks like I did! Needless to say, that’s the source of my style this winter, warmth and comfort. Don’t be afraid to wear comfort instead of “fashion” for style when it’s cold. Style when done organically, will ALWAYS outdo forced fashion trends. My lip color is bold, made to pop out against the shadowing darkness of the all black. Let me know what you think! Please join me back here tomorrow for “Style Lusts” and a surprise post later…

(Insert hand wave emoji) Cupcakes!

Coat: Burlington. (Similar here) Pants: American Apparel. Boots: CiciHot. Necklace: Macy’s. (old, searching for similar).

Anti-Prep

Posted on January 8, 2016 by The Style Cake

Disclaimer: I apologize for the extremely late post.

I finally look my height (5′ 4″), and I must say that I’m excited lol. I just had to throw that in there. Okay, so business as usual. My look. I wanted to wear a sweater/button up blouse look but the problem with that is you end up looking preppy whether you want to or not. That is definitely not the look I am going for. That being said, I opted for sleeveless sheer blouse with a collar instead of the predictable non-sheer white solid. To further step away from the traditional prep look, I grabbed a bomb statement necklace I purchased from Purple Love. This necklace packs a “pow” factor that counters the normal dainty necklace or scarf that would be worn with the prep look. Quite rebellious huh? Lol. That’s the exact point.

Style is all about tweaking looks that aren’t “you” to make them just the way want to express your personality perfectly. That’s what makes styling fun. I threw on a hat on my messy pony for flirty but youthfully stern look. My boots are combat-like booties, high in heel, they give me a longer, leaner silhouette (even though I am getting thinner) and anyone can get that effect. Give it a try, you won’t be disappointed!

Now that you’ve seen what I’m wearing, let me know what you’re wearing or were wearing this Friday night!

Later Cupcakes!!

Sweater: H&M (similar here). Blouse: F21 (similar here). Jeans: Fashion Nova. Booties: Justfab. Necklace: Purple Love (sold out but similar necklace on the site). Earrings: H&M (similar here). Bracelets: Layered Chains.

Black, White & Colored Sophistication

Posted on January 5, 2016 by The Style Cake

Disclaimer: A huge part of style is fit. This coat is WAY too big for me but I wore this for demonstration purposes.

I love mixing color with black and white prints. The two compliment one another so very well, sometimes even allowing two different “styles” to coexist in one outfit. In this look today, I’m actually showing the most subtle (if it can be called that) way to mix colors amongst strong colored prints. I opted for a houndstooth scarf balanced against a colorful plaid coat. Both work for style and comfort as they not only keep me warm but they also stand out and grab attention. For a chic look (to this vintage coat), I tried to wear the coat simply hanging onto my shoulders. It was too cold for that!! Lol. I didn’t wear jewelry because my look is definitely decorated enough (due to the prints), overdone is never attractive…at least in my opinion. I’ve mixed black and white with colored prints in the past and I LOVE the way that it looks. I feel that it’s easy a signature look for me! Anyhoo, I’ve put info on my look below and something new I’m doing is adding alternatives to items no longer available, vintage or thrifted. Let me know what you think!

Later Cupcakes!

Wool Coat: Vintage (similar coat HERE, similar shirt HERE). Scarf: eBay. Turtleneck: H&M. Denim: (similar) JC Penney. Boots: old (similar pair HERE )

January Style Lusts (Edited Title)

Posted on January 5, 2016 by The Style Cake

1. Lash extensions:

My obsession continues. Recently I got lash extensions and I honestly can’t stop looking at my eyes in the mirror. Lashes create a world of a difference. If you’re looking for something to make your face look “made up” with no effort, grab some lash extensions. If lash extensions are too expensive, there are now tons of strip lashes that have that extension look..some even made with mink fur. The price for such a strip lash is cheaper and more affordable. I update soon about how long the lash extensions last and comfort levels while wearing them.

2. Body Harness:

I’ve always had an affinity for body chains and harnesses. When done right, a body chain or harness can ooze sex appeal. If you have a crop top, you can add a velvet or suede body harness/chain and a pair of jeans for a simple but edgy outfit. I have that outfit (with a few more details of course), already lined up for a future outfit look. The beauty of being modest is that you can avoid showing everything all while still being sexy. Chains and harnesses do this very thing for you. Just seeing the harness peek outside a v neck shirt is sexy enough! I am currently building my collection…

Photo Credit: GetHellBent (Etsy)

3. Oversized Earrings:

Lately, jewelry trends have been quite muted. Most fashionistas are rocking stud earrings or sleek designed hoops for a minimalist look. I’m a strong believer that minimalist looks are what you make of them. I won’t tell you what look I have lined up with a bold pair of earrings that I’ve purchased by I am super excited about. Of course the outfit will be a spring outfit, yes I’ve already planned for spring ootds lol. Oversized earrings can totally make your entire outfit!! If you’re wanting a pop of color in an outfit and are scared of color, grab a bold pair of oversized earrings!

Photo Credit: Pintrest

4. Longline Blazers:

I know in my last style lists I talked about more glamorous blazers. This time I’m talking about “plain” colored longline blazers. Longline Blazers are very flattering on the body and can easily take an outfit from casual to classy. Some colors I’ve grabbed are nude, pink, peach, black and white. These blazers won’t grab the spotlight but attract attention to otherwise lack luster looks. If you are shorter in height, a regular length blazer may work better as a longline blazer if longline isn’t available in petite. One great perk of longline blazers? No need for a jacket when wearing them in the spring. For a bit of extra style” grab a collar-less longline blazer!

Photo credit: Pintrest

5. Pom Pom Heeled Sandals:

I first saw these a few years ago but I am helplessly in love with heeled sandals that have pom poms across the toe band. Everyone else freaking out over fringe and I am on the hunt for a great pair of pom pom heeled sandals. Chances are, I’ll have to end up making my them myself…well sort of. They add a bit of a fun colorful aspect to any outfit. I would suggest pom poms on a simple sandal. Too much design in the sandal itself can crowd out the “purpose” of the pom poms. Anyhoo, I feel a DIY coming lol..

Photo credit: Neiman Marcus

5. Metallic Heels:

So besides pom pom heeled sandals, I’ve been truly admiring metallic pumps and heeled sandals. In particular, silver has truly captured my attention. I’m actually surprised by my own attraction to silver since I’m definitely more of a gold girl. I tend to be drawn to gold because it seems to compliment my skin tone better. Nevertheless, I am seeing more metallic heels in silver that I can imagine becoming trendy. I’m seeing silver as a neutral color at this moment. Silver isn’t just for brides anymore. Replace your black and nude pumps with a silver pair for a great pop of glam!!

Photo credit: Neiman Marcus

January First!

Posted on January 1, 2016 by The Style Cake

It’s 2016 already!! Geez time has really flown by. 2015 was a very difficult year and I am glad that some things are now the past. The things that matter to me are the things that money simply can’t buy. I started planning for 2016 back in 2015 and I must say that I am so ready to start doing things that I planned. I don’t have new years revolutions, every single day is always one that I use to do better than I did the day before.

I can’t say that I didn’t learn a lot last year. This blogging thing has opened my eyes to people even more and has opened up the romantic idea of myself. There are things that I would love to change physically at times but the most important changes are always the ones that I choose to make inside. The secret person of the heart. I am going to continue to make the strides that I started making in 2015, this year is no different than any other when it comes to making the best out of becoming the very best that I can be. Life has made many adjustments, un-forseen things have happened. I’m a better mom and wife than I was this time last year, I am very proud that my husband and children are proud of me. I’ve outgrown overdue friendships and grown into new ones where I actually feel cared for, not by things or money but by true love and support coupled with understanding.

This post is not really about what I am wearing on the outside, rather what I am wearing on the inside. My heart. I feel loved. I feel inspired. I feel beautiful. I feel brilliant. I feel grateful. That is all that matters. My outfit was one that I wore out with one of my dear friends. It was the last hang out of 2015 and I was comfy the entire time.It’s stylish but it shows how relaxed I felt in my heart. I can’t wait to celebrate more of nothing more than simple moments, not over exaggerated by fancy clothes, over the top parties, faux friendships. Just honesty. Simplicity. One day at a time. So much to accomplish but before I get ahead of myself, let’s do January first!

Later Cupcakes,

Candy.

[True Upload] Essence Beauty Box: Fab or Fail? (Review)

Posted on December 31, 2015 by The Style Cake

Like many of the monthly boxes of marketing’s past, I was interested in a new box that hit the scene that promised to give subscribers a taste of hot and poppin items currently and to-come on the market. That being said, when I heard that Essence would be releasing a monthly subscription for those interested in testing out products seemingly catered to ethnic groups of color and curlier hair. That piqued my interest. I signed up for the service. Here I sit 2 months later (well three really) as a canceled subscriber. Why, you may ask? Short and sweet, three reasons:

(Non-unique items) In all of the two boxes that I received, most of what was in those boxes had nothing that was unique or beyond what I had already seen on the market for years. I wasn’t even remotely interested in some of the things that were sent to me. In fact, most of the things that I received I’ve tried to avoid buying for years. Honestly, I felt like I had spent my money to buy things that I promised myself I would’t spend dime on anyway. (Side eye). I guess thats the way the world works huh? One of the only thing out of both boxes that I actually liked was the sample of Smashbox Full Exposure mascara…which brings me to my next point.
(Tiny Sample Sizes) I realize the box was only $15 but you CAN get this very sample (Smashbox) for free right on the website with purchase. That is a temporary offer, however, some have gotten it free with a Sephora purchase as well. See how this point ties into the first? Well, the items are so non-unique that you can literally get them anywhere…and not pay a dime for it. I guess you are getting a deal if you would really buy the travel size at Macy’s for $9. (Insert wide eyed emoji). I mean, even the Black Radiance Lipstick was not full sized and that’s normally not more than 4 bucks! Anyhoo…
(There are “Better” Boxes) So I am not here to bash Essence at all. I don’t want to be fussed at via the internet because I am not supporting a “black owned business” because it is not black owned anyway. (Which is also beside the point). I am not supporting because I feel that there are other boxes that offer much more for a better price. My advice, try it. Everyone is different. One person’s glass may be another person’s diamond, I don’t know. I personally like the Target box better. It was half the price and I got two full sized products that retailed for more than the $15 that I paid for the Essence Beauty Box. The only problem with the Target Beauty Box is that you have to chase the releases every month. It isn’t a subscription. No problem to me because I don’t like to be tied down anyway.

Let me know if you’ve tried the box and if you have, what did you think of it? What other boxes have you tried?

(Pictures to follow…)

A “Modern” Update

Posted on December 26, 2015 by The Style Cake

A little while ago I was taking advantage of the warmer weather we had. I seriously have started looking for spring clothes and shoes because I am over boots and coats already. Yea, it’s that serious lol.

I love this shirt that I am wearing in this post because it is so simple and is actually warm enough to wear in the winter. You’ve seen this shirt in a post earlier this year and I wanted to wear it again so I decided to add it to another outfit of the day but kind of updating the look to coincide with my current sense of style. The look is pretty simple but I love that it rock & roll, girly, flirty, and classic all rolled into one. I wore one of my favorite pair of open toe booties by Zara and layered the look for a fun spin on the shirt. The look is fresh and clean. You can try this look with a totally different graphic tee and closed toe boots and a different jacket for your own spin on this outfit!

I know this weekend is a long one so I won’t keep you, I’m headed out myself for some fun. I will catch you all back here Monday for another outfit look!!

Bye Cupcakes!

Jacket & Tee: Forever 21. Shoes: Zara. Denim Shirt: Thrifted. Skirt (SOLD OUT): Fashion Nova (similar here). Clutch: Turquoise Soul Bags. Earrings: Layered Chains. Ear Cuff: F 21.

The 411…

Posted on December 23, 2015 by The Style Cake

When you think of the 90s, what comes to your mind?

I remember as a teenager being at the skating rink, listening to some of the best house or R&B music and watching now iconic television shows movies at the show just to name a few things. I’ve been in “back in the day” type mood. I miss the simplicity the 90s offered in fashion as well as makeup and beauty trends. Barely were there limits on fashion but seeing as the 80s involved so many dated trends, the lack luster push of trends in the 90s was quite refreshing lol. I loved wearing chokers (velvet to be exact), crop tops, knee high boots, hoop earrings, high waisted jeans that weren’t spandex, dark lipstick, dark eyeliner and no eyeshadow, white eyeliner…

I seriously could go on and on. I know, I know, “we don’t have that kind of time” is probably what you’re saying. I hear you lol!! Okay so I was inspired to wear an outfit reminiscent of the 90s but I tweaked it and made it modern. So here’s the 411 hun…

My skirt is vintage, purchased from a shop online, Yesterday’s Love. This skirt is truly the highlight for me. It’s on trend but a classic piece at the same time. I decided to wear it with a vintage (100% pure silk) jacket that I purchased years ago from a seller on eBay. My crop top is part of a two piece set (and I believe in separating pieces to acquire the look I want) from Naked Wardrobe. I bought the set sometime in 2014. My boots are a footwear favorite and my jewelry screams 90s style!! I am in love with my half moon shaped “open” bangle. It adds another layer of 90s flava…yup, I said flava!! Lol!!! (90s slang). My hair is a low pony, I had it in a knot and took it down for a bouncy effect. All in all, I loved how each detail came together. Let me know what you think! New outfit post Friday…

Bye Cupcakes!

below: a clip from the 90s movie in my head…