Rules For Everyday Stockings

I am feeling very 1999, the year of Hit me baby one more time. I also feel a bit Beverly Hills 90210, something Brenda Walsh would wear when she was still trying to fit in? Whichever the case is, I am definitely stepping outside my comfort with this oversized blazer/coat and some knee-high stockings. The stocking are a first. It's a tricky thing to do ya know... Pair it with a wrong skirt and you will look like a Catholic School wannabe, wear it with the wrong shoes and people might feel the need to make it rain on you. I have learned a few lesson while I raided my closet to determine the perfect combo for these stocks. Since I try to be humble as much as possible, I am compelled to shared them with you:

Rule #1: When wearing with high heel boots, use a quasi sheer  tight underneath (mix of patterns is acceptable) so you keep it sophisticated and not sloppy

Rule #2: Unless you are going to a Halloween or Costume party, stay away from plaid, full pleated skirts. 

Rule #3: When wearing without tights... stick to some flat shoes. Ballerina-esque shoes might cause the stockings' appeal to be lost so choose some bolder shoes like oxfords, loafers, booties (western or military inspired).

Rule #4: When wearing with a tight, try to keep it in the same color scheme. Color blocking is better off with your top section or you might risk resembling a clown or Nicki Minaj (but hey... who am I to judge)

Rule #5: If you are more of a rebel when it comes to dressing up, ignore rules 1-4 :)

PS: I apologize for my lack of response lately. Apparently Panamanians living in the US got together and decided it would be fun to apply for passports all at the same time so the phones have been keeping me busy. I could risk applying my multi-tasking skills to the matter and do both, but I worry I might tell a client "I love that clutch paired with that sweater," or worse... "xoxo, Leslie!"

Dress- Ruche

Blazer- H&M (fall)

Shoes- ALDO

Stockings- ASOS

Rings- H&M, BCBG

Necklace- Unknown

Watch- Michael Kors

Bracelets- Charrioll, F21

Sunglasses- BCBG

Smart Shopper

A lady-like dress  begs to be paired with some men-looking accesories and that's exactly how I paid tribute to this $15 dress from Urban Outfitters. When it comes to bargains, I am not always the brightest crayon in the box. My dad actually suggested I should make this blog about affordable shopping for struggling fashionistas. Now, if you knew my dad, you would understand he is not one to dabble around this world. His mentality is very straight forward: one should own the necessary items to dress appropriately (one pair of black shoes, one pair of brown shoes, a couple of pants, a good pair of jeans and some running shoes). Thankfully this person here, and my mom, invade his closet every once in a while, or take advantage during important celebrations to increase his wardrobe. Ask him something about computers, and that is a whole different story. But anyway, considering who my dad is, his advice was pretty touching which made it even more harder to express to him how his daughter was not in the "smart shopper" category... I am one of those that buys an item at full price the day before it goes to half-off. So, when I walk into Urban Outfitters to return and item and see an "additional 50% off on all sale items sign at the door," I decided it was time I tested the waters. And this dress, this beautiful, floral print dress, was one of the results and let me tell you... one my proudest moments (or at least one of my top 10).

PS- I am willing to continue doing this so if you are a smart buyer, keep me posted. I'd be happy to plan a shopping date with you!

Dress- Urban Outfitters

Tights- NY&Co

Shoes- ALDO

Hat- BCBG similar here
Handbag- Vintage Coach

Necklace- Unknown

Rings- Jewelmint

Watch- Vintage Cartier