Derby Day Chic

You may not be traveling to Churchill Downs for the most exciting 2 minutes in sports.... but it's always good to be prepared for a fun Derby party with friends... and know what to wear!  It isn't all about the horses, right?!?  When I think of the Derby..... Big hats and Mint Juleps come to mind.  Kentucky Derby fashion has become as much about the race event as the horse racing.  And.... HATS ARE DEFINITELY A MUST!!! 

Below, I put together 3 Kentucky Derby outfits for the Ladies and 1 bonus outfit for the Guys to help inspire you to dress your best for the race weekend! 

Hat:  Haute Hats (local hat designer found at Alys Shoppe, Kiki Risa & Dip Swimwear)             Dress:  Diane Von Furstenberg    Bag: Coastal Road (found locally at Alys Shoppe, Kiki Risa, & Ophelia)    Shoes:  Vince

The Derby Hat. 

Like I said, it's a MUST!  Whether simple or extravagant, you must make sure you have one perched atop your head!  Fascinators are the hot new trend from across the pond - smaller headpieces worn on a headband or a comb.  Princess Kate made this unique style "chic" a few years ago.  If you choose a simple large brimmed hat.... consider adding fresh flowers, feathers, or netting... to make it your own.

Dress:  Alexis (available at Alys Shoppe)    Wedges:  Matt Bernson                                              Handbag:  Gigi NYC       Hat:  Dillards

The Dress.

In my opinion, all ladies need to be in a dress.  I feel like it's a Southern Lady TRADITION!  Feel free to Show your unique style, but try to keep the silhouette simple and ladylike.... you would never want to distract from the  THE HAT.  If choosing a floral dress or print, keep your hat simple by choosing one color.  If your dress is a solid color, feel free to go wild with several different colors!

The Accessories. 

Keep it simple.  Your Hat needs to be the "STAR" of your outfit.  Stay away from big statement pieces and choose understated and delicate pieces instead, ie:  simple cross or diamond necklace, or classic pearls and dainty earrings like studs or simple hoops.   Also, your handbag needs to be small and simple - like a clutch.  Make sure it can hold the following:  phone, ID, credit cards, lipstick and lots of cash for placing those bets!!

Fascinator:  Ebay      Dress:  Carolina Herrera       Bag:  Rachel Zoe       Shoes:  Calypso St Barths

The Shoes.

Chic summer open toe sandals, mules, classic wedges or an espadrille will be perfect with any dress.  Make sure they are comfortable!!   Even though the race is quick, the entire Derby event you attend might be an all day affair! 

The Guys.

Think classic preppy attire for the men.  Traditional seersucker suits, or pants in different eye catching colors with a crisp white button up on top.  Or classic khaki or navy pants and beautiful bright colored shirts.  If your guy doesn't mind neck wear.... you can pull it all together with a bright colored necktie.  Also, don't be afraid to let him don a 1920s style fedora style hat as well.... just as long as it doesn't take away from yours!   

Hat:  Haute Hats

I hope this has inspired you to wear your "Derby Best" with confidence on May 5th!!  Don't forget to place your bets!!

A Weekend of Wine & Fashion

The 7th Annual 30A Wine Festival was an amazing event at Alys Beach!  The weather thankfully cooperated and it was a beautiful weekend filled with wine, spirits, food, fashion & beautiful people!  It is always a special event, especially to me, because of the beneficiary, Children's Volunteer Health Network.  I have been involved with this wonderful local nonprofit organization for many years.  It is heartwarming to see so many locals and out of towners support them and their cause to provide access to health services for children in Walton & Okaloosa counties in Florida. 

The fashion at the event is always on point, and I felt so perfectly dressed in everything I was wearing from The Alys Shoppe.  It was the perfect place to find beautiful pieces for the entire weekend of festivities!  

I am sharing the highlights below from this fabulous fashion and wine filled weekend.  Enjoy!

The beautiful storefront of The Alys Shoppe.

We kicked off our Friday evening February 23rd, at Bourbon, Beer and Butts and enjoyed live music, yummy food and.... obviously lots of delicious beer and bourbon! 

I think I have the best looking date - my sweet husband, John.  Sweater, black denim, necklace, bracelets & handbag all available at The Alys Shoppe

Yummy Bourbon!!  (please excuse the lipstick marks on glass)

I stopped by to see the lovely ladies at The Alys Shoppe before the Grand Wine Tasting on Saturday, February 24th.  These sweet, stylish women are always super helpful and ready to help find the perfect pieces for you!

Let the tasting begin!!

It was a glorious day to stroll the quaint streets of Alys Beach, tasting wine and food.  My Dress, jewelry and handbag all from The Alys Shoppe.

One of my favorites I tried that day!

There is no other place quite like Alys Beach. 

Not a great quality photo.... but wanted you see these two parents had a fabulous time.... and I felt super stylish with my handsome date!!

Love this display of the glasses when you walked into Rosè and Croquet. 

Lastly, Sunday, February 25th was Rosè and Croquet in the afternoon.  This is such a classic, chic & stylish event.  Everyone wore shades of white (the traditional color for croquet) and enjoyed a delicious brunch accompanied by rosè, champagne and creative cocktails . 

My entire outfit is from Alys Shoppe (including my hubby's hat too)

Who knew South Africa could make such delicious wines??

Stylish people playing croquèt

The place to see and be seen on 30A is Rosè and Croquet on Sunday!

Feeling blessed to have been part of such a wonderful, chic event benefiting Children's Volunteer Heath Network... in such a breathtaking place, Alys Beach.  Thanks again to The Alys Shoppe for making be feel super stylish and confident during all of the weekend festivities!

Until next year..... Cheers everyone! 

30A Wine Festival Fashion at Alys Beach

The 30A Wine Festival is one of the most stylish and chic wine & culinary events on the gulf coast.... due to the breathtaking location at Alys Beach.   This year marks the fifth year of this exciting event which benefits Children's Volunteer Health Network, a nonprofit dedicated to providing access to health services for children in Walton and Okaloosa counties.  I have been involved with CVHN for several years and these people and children hold a special place in my heart.

The weekend festivities are set for March 11 - 13th.

Marta is wearing gray high-low dress by Stateside, red hand bag by Antonello, sandals LeSwim & Krewe du Optic sunnies.   Adam is wearing Alys Beach logo popover & shorts -both by Peter Millar

I am super excited to be teaming up with the The Alys Shoppe to help you decide what to wear to all of the weekend festivities!   All of the following looks are from the Alys Shoppe. 

Ladies and Gents, get ready to take notes...

Kick off the weekend at the Bourbon, Beer & Butts on Friday, March 11th, from 6:00-9:00 pm at Kelly Green.  Dress code is casual "southern" chic.   These looks are perfect to sip a cocktail, eat some awesome BBQ and enjoy the live music from Luther Dickinson of the North Mississippi Allstars. 

Marta is wearing a jeweled neck gray sweater by Autumn Cashmere, studded bracelet by S Carter & destroyed denim by Paige. 

Adam is wearing a sweater vest by Bugatchi & plaid button down by Peter Millar.

Swirl, sip and learn from some of the countries best vintners on Saturday from 1:00-3:30pm at Fonville Park.  Then, from 3:30-7:00 join everyone for a wine walkabout at the North Sea Garden Walk at Alys Beach for the Grand Tasting.

Marta is wearing gray high-low dress by Stateside, red hand bag by Antonello, sandals by LeSwim, Krewe du Optic sunnies & studded bracelet by S Carter.

Adam is wearing Alys Beach logo popover & shorts - both by Peter Millar

This is how you take the same look from day to night.  Marta is wearing the gray dress by Stateside and I changed her bag to a gorgeous Coastal Road clutch, sexy tassel earrings by Vintage Green and heels to create an evening look with the same dress.

Here's another option for the wine walkabout day event.  Marta is wearing a denim romper by Enza Costa, & fringe cardi by Magaschoni.

Another option for the wine walkabout for Adam.  He is wearing a plaid shirt by Frank & Eileen.

Be sure to pick up your stylish Swell bottles to hydrate, hydrate hydrate!!!

Finally, Rose and Croquet is a highlight of the 30A Wine Festival on Sunday 11:30-3:30 pm at Kelly Green at Alys Beach.  You must wear your traditional croquet whites for this tournament!   Enjoy a boozy brunch and biscuit bar prior to the match, complete with elegant Rosés and Bloody Mary bar.  This is one of my favorite events during this festival....Super chic!

Marta is wearing white fringe pants by Paige, gray cardi by Charli & sunnies by Krewe du Optic.  Adam is wearing white button down by Frank and Eileen, sunnies by Tom Ford and khakis. 

Adam is wearing white button down by Frank and Eileen, Tom Ford sunnies & khakis. 

Fringe for days with these awesome pants by Paige.

I encourage you to attend the 30A Wine Festival at Alys Beach this year and experience one of the most stylish and unique wine festivals along our gulf coast, while supporting Children's Volunteer Health Network and helping our local community and its uninsured and underinsured children. 

Buy your wine festival tickets here.  Shop the Alys Shoppe for your weekend attire to be the best dressed of the wine festival!  I will see you there!!

Watersound Ladies Soiree Event

A few weeks ago, I had the amazing opportunity to co-host a late afternoon soiree with St. Joe Club & Resorts for a group of lovely ladies at the Watersound Origins Cafe.  Guests enjoyed cocktails and hors d'oeuvres while enjoying a non-traditional fashion show.  We were lucky to have two local boutiques there, Willow and Beachfolly,  showing off their latest summer fashions. Two models from each boutique dressed in a beautiful day time look, floating around the room discussing their outfit details with the guests.  We also had the honor of having Shelly Brown Jewelry there, showcasing her beautiful line of bohemian chic inspired cuffs and gorgeous jewels.  

This event would not have been possible without many many people making it all come together and beautiful!  I would like to thank the following people: Photography by Jacqueline Ward Images,  Morgan King (makeup) and Rachel King (hair), Flowers by Milk and Honey (gorgeous arrangements of flowers), Willow Boutique,  Beachfolly, St. Joe Club & Resorts staff (Carly, Carolyn and Curtis) at Origins and my loved ones (my husband)! 

Wagma (Willow model) having her makeup done by Morgan King.

Of course, fashion shows require hair and make up!!!  What fun to host all of the models in my home pre-event!   We had two amazing & talented ladies doing hair and makeup... Rachel Nelson on hair and Morgan King doing makeup.  We were so blessed to have these ladies helping us to look event ready!  

Anne Hunter (Willow model) having her hair done by Rachel Nelson.

Making sure everything is in the right place before show time

Flowers by Milk and Honey

Flowers by Milk and Honey

My sweet mother n law, Dana Giles, has ALWAYS been supportive of my passion and new business

Shelly Brown jewels

The goods at Willow.

(L to R)  me, Shelly Brown, Anne Hunter and Allyson Longshore of STYLE STUDIO.

I had the opportunity talk to our guests about my business, Wardrobe Made Simple, as well as discuss how we turned the model's day outfits into evening! 

Winner of my two hour evaluation giveaway, Chandra Whittington.

My gracious, beautiful models.  L to R -- Rachel Klager, Kathy Zellner, me, Wagma Permyakov and Anne Hunter.

Willow girls.  L to R - Mary Kane Hawkins, Wagma Permyakov, Cindy Krutz (co-owner), Anne Hunter & me

Rachel Klager (Beachfolly model) of The Southern Atelier

Grand Opening of Mason in Seaside

The chic town square of Seaside, Florida is lined with beautiful boutiques, delicious eateries & those famous airstream restaurants.  It's a special place where locals and tourists mingle together.   What better place than this to open a new men's store..... Mason- Goods for Men.  The talented, "Willow Girls" (as they are locally known), Celia Tucker and Cindy Krutz, have done it again with this cool, beach side shop.  

(L to R) Cindy Krutz (co-owner), me & Celia Tucker (co-owner).  We are all wearing apparel and heels from Willow. 

I was excited to attend the grand opening party this week of Mason, the new addition to the Willow family.  I always love celebrating my friends' accomplishments and talents! 

Photo provided by Willow.  Interior of Mason.

Mason carries men's goods, ie, apparel & accessories, swimwear, shoes, sunglasses, bar ware, shaving kits and more!  Lines include Billy Reid, Vince, Original Penguin, Vela & Krewe, Peter Millar, Collard Greens, Hudson Denim, Rodd & Gunn.... just to name a few. 

Photo provided by Willow. 

Photo provided by Willow.  Chic Interior of Mason.

This space is so cozy and chic!

Photo provided by Willow. Interior of Mason.

Jami Ray of 30A Street Style and me at the grand opening.

Loved mingling with our local, chic friends also.   Jami Ray, of 30A Street Style and Christie Casillo & Megan Trent of Coastal Road leather goods, were also celebrating Cindy and Celia's new addition to the Willow family. 

(L to R) Megan Trent (Brand Manager for Coastal Road), me & Christie Casillo (Designer & Founder of Coastal Road).  I'm wearing my Metallic Bolinas Leather tassel necklace by Coastal Road.

John and me at Mason.

I had to bring "my Man" to this grand opening of course!  What a fun night!

Mason is located at 2236 East County Hwy 30A, Seaside, FL 32459, opens tomorrow at Noon until 7pm in Seaside, FL.  Mason will open seven days a week, from 10am-9pm this spring and summer.

Valerie & Matt's Santa Rosa Beach Wedding

Weddings are one of my favorite events to style!  I was thrilled to be able to celebrate with our friends Valerie & Matt Walker yesterday at Celebration Hall in Santa Rosa Beach, Florida.  I was excited to wear my new Joie suede heels (available at Willow Boutique).  Also, my new Coastal Road Sundance clutch was perfect with my dress!   

(L to R) Misty Parenzan, me & Jennifer Moffatt - my beautiful friends. 

A beautiful day in Santa Rosa Beach for a wedding..... catching up with sweet friends.  I'm wearing a BCBG dress from last year's collection from Willow Boutique.  This dress always puts me in a good mood because of the fun, bright color!  My jewels are my own LOVE necklace from Willow Boutique, druzy and gold layering necklaces. 

Jennifer Moffatt and me.....whew it was a hot day!

The groom, Matt Walker, and his beautiful bride, Valerie Walker.

Weddings are always a good reminder of how blessed I am to have been married to this handsome guy for fifteen years!

Celebration Hall in Santa Rosa Beach, Florida.

Congratulations to Valerie and Matt Walker!  Thank you for sharing your special day with us in such a beautiful place.  Cheers!

Scenes from the Memorial Day weekend...

The Memorial Day weekend along 30A was filled with beautiful weather, family & friends fun on the beach and fashion for a cause.  I was honored to have the opportunity to co-host a two day event with the beautiful girls of The Southern Atelier and Beachfolly, a precious little boutique located in Watercolor.   We celebrated & talked about fashion in the south surrounded by gorgeous clothes & accessories, by Fine & Funky Jewelry.  Also, since May is Lyme Disease Awareness month, we were raising awareness and taking the Lyme disease challenge.  Did you know?  Lyme disease is a world wide infectious disease and has been reported in all 50 states.  Typically, Lyme disease is transmitted through a bite from an infected tick and only 50% of people will develop the bull's eye rash.  Other common symptoms include fatigue, neck stiffness, pain, memory loss, headaches, joint pain and arthritis & jaw discomfort.  To find out more information and raise awareness and hope, visit www.lymelightfoundation.org. 

During the weekend of festivities, I had the chance to meet some special people that photographed our event at Beachfolly.  Jeremy & Amanda Jackson, with The Jacksons Photography.  They are a precious husband and wife team based in the MidWest, (Columbus, Ohio).  Call them if you are getting married in Columbus....or down here at the beach!! 

Amanda & Jeremy Jackson taking the Lyme Disease challenge. 

Picture of me pulling clothing for customers during the weekend.  I'm wearing head to toe Chan Luu and Fine & Funky Jewels all from Beachfolly! 

My girls stopped by the photobooth at the event to be silly.   Riley (left) & Cooper (right) - wearing Well Dressed Wolf dresses. 

Our sweet cousins came to visit us from Signal Mountain, TN.  (L to R -- Hale, Rees, Cooper & Riley).  My girls are wearing Old Navy Denim Shirt Dresses (they are sold out of this particular dress, but check out this precious Girls Denim romper from Old Navy.)  and Mini Melissa  + Capana Gold Jellies.

We had a crew in town for the holiday weekend.....The Hamiltons (John's sister and her husband and kids) from Signal Mountain, TN., my parents (aka, Nana & Buddy) came in from Ozark, AL. and we also had John's parents who live here (aka, DeeCee & Granddaddy).  We spent a lot of our time on the beach playing with the kids, drinking beach drinks and eating good food (it was beautiful, but very windy).  I'm sad I didn't get a picture of all of us this weekend, though. 

John and me on the beach -- holding onto my hat!  Wearing Tom Ford sunnies and Jenessa Leone hat- both from Willow Boutique.   John wearing Maui Jim sunnies and his own Corestruction hat. 

Holly Williams (Hank Williams,  Jr. Daughter) on stage jamming with her husband Chris Coleman, of Kings of Leon. 

The weekend still kept going.... we got to see Holly Williams & her husband, Chris Coleman, in concert at Grayton Beer Brewery (very cool event) with The Hamiltons.  We also had our dear friends, The Baynes, and their crew from Birmingham join us at the concert. 

Gulf Coast Sinfonia in Alys Beach. 

Cousins marching and honoring those fallen heros. 

Lastly we finished off the weekend with a beautiful concert under the stars in Alys Beach with the Gulf Coast Sinfonia.....remembering those who gave the ultimate sacrifice for our country and freedom.  Thank you and God Bless.