a charming array

Because jewelry is one my very favorite accessories, displaying it in my room as decor seemed like the perfect idea. Especially after coming across these great display options - one of which is a DIY project for earrings [a very simple craft that looks great]. 

Step 1: Choose a frame that fits your style [mine was actually my late grandfathers, which makes me love it even more]. You could even paint an older frame to liven it up. 

Step 2: Choose a material to hang your earrings by. Some great options include lace, string, fabric, or chicken wire. 

Step 3: Attach your material to your frame. I suggest using either a staple gun or a hot glue gun. 

Step 4: Hang on wall

Step 5: Start showing off your jewelry! 

Here's a few pictures of mine: 

 I chose to hang mine by a single nail, if you choose a newer frame, hangers may already be attached

Here are a few jewelry displays I purchased:

 This key was a steal from Francesca's Collections - $10! 

 I found this at Urban Outfitters - it comes in a few other colors as well.

Ta-da! If you're currently a renter like me, this is a perfect way to spice up your room.

And there you have it, a jewelry exposition in your bedroom :] Go brighten up those white walls! 

For more jewelry display options and DIY inspiration, check out my blogger friend Inspiration Station.  

Stay Splendid :] 

one fashion week to the next

From New York to London, fashion week lives on. London Fashion Week is September 14 - 18, 2012 for Spring/Summer 2013 styles. The "Highlights" section on the site is the best - I can't stop looking! 

Sheers, abstract lines and cuts, looser fits, light and feminine colors: less is more, it's really all about the clothes. 

Things I'm happy to still see: blazers, belts, and pockets [a personal fave]. 

So far, I personally really like Nicole Farhi's line shown Day 3 [clean cuts, full skirts, fresh] and Antoni & Alison shown Day 1 [a mix and match of amazing colors, prints, and embellishments]. 

Nicole Farhi

photo from: 

http://www.londonfashionweek.co.uk/designers_catwalk_overlay.aspx?designerid=231&seasonid=32#11

Antoni & Alison

photo from:

http://www.londonfashionweek.co.uk/designers_catwalk_overlay.aspx?designerid=24&seasonid=32#17 

It is so hard to pick just a few! What have your favorite designers and styles been? 

Happy Styling :] 

Blog Inspiration

Curious as to what went on behind the scenes of New York Fashion week? Me too! I wanted to share one of my favorite fashion blogs [if you haven't already seen me re-tweet her daily] - Lauren Conrad's. She shared daily updates about the shows she attended, what styles she saw, and what styles she wore to the shows. I'd say this blog is a must! To read about fashion week with Lauren, click here! 

Beyond fashion week, Lauren has a plethora of advice and ideas regarding style and design on her blog - what I find to be an absolutely perfect inspiration for my blog! Be sure to look around while you are there. 

I also recommend the Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week site, it has everything! 

A few chic + classy looks I found by Marissa Webb. Her looks are so feminine, it was hard to choose just a few. There are some great shots of her looks here.

I love the very first look: 
A collared shirt and these pants spice up the outfit just enough

As well as the bright romber + neutral blazer on page two: 
Simple hair - Bright romper with matching heels - Neutral blazer to tone the outfit down a bit - I feel like everything about this outfit is perfect

What styles did you show off this weekend? Happy styling :] 

oxfords: they'll sweep you off your feet

A week into September in Iowa means that 50 degree weather is upon us at any moment. While it makes me sad to say goodbye to toasty warm weather, I do look forward in saying hello to fall fashion and trends. Cool and crispy weather makes for the perfect opportunity to class up any outfit by wearing a pair of oxfords! They are perfect when it is too chilly for sandals but it is not quite time to pull out your boots (although how soon is too soon for boots, really).

These aren't just your every day lace up shoes - spice your outfit up by wearing a pair with a splash of color, sparkle, heel, or a classic bow. You can't go wrong when pairing these classics with skinnys or tights, a cozy sweater and a scarf. Hello fall :]

Check out some of my favorites (and afordable) below:

a worn in look with a color that will go with just about everything

[DSW]

cute and classy

[at urban outiftters]

a cross between a flat and an oxford

[at Nordstroms]

these are mine, a little more of a masculine look but i love the splash of color on the sole

[DSW]

Also on my lust-list... loafers. Another classic coming back into style!

edgy

[DSW]

a more classic look

[DSW]

And there you have a variety of oxford styles. Which ones are your favorite? 

Keep checking back for style and design updates! Check out TOPSHOP's line at Nordstroms here. I'm so excited one of my favorite European stores is hitting the U.S.! 

Stay Splendid :]