A Bit of Sunshine!

Many of you have asked for tips on what to wear in warm weather.

Here in east Tennessee, we rarely have the hot, humid weather I experienced while I lived near New Orleans.

This loose, thin, almost sheer blouse is a Portofino blouse from Express. I have them in many colors and wear them throughout the summer with faded jeans, white jeans, and khaki pants. I buy them in a larger size than I normally wear to be roomy enough in the bust. On this day, I was on my way to the grocery store.

The ankle-length slim leg jeans are from Chico's.

The wedge sandals are by Antonio Melani via the sale rack at Dillard's last fall. The bag is by Alberta di Canio, and I bought it at T.J.Maxx last year. The Kenneth Cole sunglasses are also from T.J.Maxx.

Are You Ready For Spring?

Here in the eastern portion of the US, we are looking forward to spring weather. Basics that take me through all seasons include great fitting straight leg jeans, a nice white blouse with few design details, and a lightweight navy blazer. I am ready for lunch with my friends, shopping, or running errands for my company after adding a few great accessories.

A structured bag and shoes with support are necessary. A good watch and a nice pair of sunglasses that flatter the shape of your face all convey a message of confidence and subtle elegance even when dressing casually.

Reptile and Fringe

It feels like spring here today!

With temperatures in the low seventies and lots of sunshine, that means it's time for me to wear open-toe shoes.

The black fringe hem jacket is part of the Travelers Collection from Chico's. The tank and khaki pants are also from Chico's.

The woven leather clutch and shoes are from Saks Off 5th. The bracelets are a couple of years old.

Congratulations to Connie Phelps from Illinois! She is the winner of the top of her choice from Covered Perfectly. 

Below, I am wearing a V-Neck style.

White Jacket

Until just last year, I never owned a white jacket. Now I have several, and I enjoy wearing them very much with jeans.

Mr. Mickey had an appointment in Burnsville, NC, yesterday, so I went along for the ride to give him some company.

I wore black jeans from Chico's and a white tank from Kohl's with a white jacket from Express last year. The necklace is old from Chico's. The bag is by Michael Kors from T.J.Maxx. The shoes were by Vince Camuto from Nordstrom last year.

Susan's Picks

I tried something new on the blog this week. From the emails I received, you enjoyed Susan's Picks very much. I am so glad! Even when the weather is bad, or we don't do anything more interesting than helping someone move, I can still share something with you.

I was very casual yesterday because we did indeed help Mr. Mickey's daughter, Regina, move. Congratulations Regina! We hope you will spend many happy years in your new home.

Model Off Duty

On Saturday, we visited the Bass Pro Shops Outdoor World in Bristol to learn what the fuss is about.

If you are a lover of outdoor activities, this is a truly amazing place to shop. It includes hand-painted murals, log cabin details, a huge fireplace, a restaurant, a bowling alley, a mountain stream water feature, and a huge aquarium surrounded by bears, deer, and a mountain lion. The taxidermy animals were so real looking it was almost like catching a glimpse of them in nature.

This post is lightheartedly titled "Model Off Duty" because I will be participating in informal modeling at my local Chico's store here in Johnson City on Sunday. They have special events in the store for Super Bowl Sunday. Mr. Mickey has graciously agreed to photograph and video the day's events for you.

I am wearing a black silky zip front top and ankle jeans from Chico's with a mink vest given to me by Mr. Mickey at Christmas when we first started dating. The cut-out booties are old from Nordstrom by Vince Camuto, Louise et Cie. The new sunglasses are by Michael Kors via T.J.Maxx.

Fun In The Winter Sun

When the sun finally breaks through the clouds, a day in Asheville is essential.

Even with the wind gusts, it was a warm and beautiful day with full sun and a crystal clear blue sky.

Earlier in the day, we had lunch at one of our favorite places, Carmel's at the Grove Arcade. These adorable young people sat at the table next to us. We struck up a conversation and had a lovely visit with these three friends.

I am wearing an Adrianna Papell sweater with a faux leather sleeve trim from Saks off 5th. The necklace was a gift from Mr. Mickey. The turtleneck top and leggings are from Chico's. The boots are from the Saks collection. The bag is Calvin Klein via T.J.Maxx. The sunglasses are Kenneth Cole Reaction via T.J.Maxx.

Let's talk about leggings for a moment. They should come with a warning tag! I could actually see the label (at the waistline!) through the leggings on one unfortunately chosen outfit. Underwear was in full view a few other times. The bottom should be completely covered when you wear leggings because they are NOT pants.

Cashmere

Last fall, I purchased my very first cashmere sweater from Ann Taylor.

I probably had a bad experience with itchy sweaters in my earlier days because I have never felt the need to own a cashmere sweater.

Now that I have worn this elegant fabric, I must have more! It is warm but not bulky and oh so soft. It isn't itchy at all. I will wear this one for three seasons, so it is well worth the investment.

The black jeggings are old from Chico's. Both the ombre scarf and the suede and reptile texture boots are by Vince Camuto.

Staying at Home

Many of you have asked what I wear when I am just staying at home.

Staying in my pajamas all day is not an option. I would not be as productive, nor would I have a very positive attitude. I look forward to getting dressed for the day and going to work... even though my office is in my home.

Even on the days, I don't have anything planned, I get dressed as usual.

On this day, I wore a red long sleeve tee from Chico's last year with wonderful jeans from the Loft (modern fit straight leg). The jacket is from Express. The black woven belt is by Michael Kors, but I removed the charms hanging from the buckle. The Franco Sarto boots are from T.J.Maxx.

I normally wear something similar with a cardigan or a jacket when the weather is cold. If I need to run an errand or if someone stops by, I am presentable.

Anita's Garden Club Luncheon

My friend Anita and I were neighbors, and she is also an employee, so when she asked me to speak to her Garden Club, I was happy to. 

The ladies gathered for lunch at Anita's beautiful home.

After lunch, I showed them how to make a pair of earrings.

Everyone had the chance to make their own pair of earrings to take with them.

It was such a fun day!

With my sweet friend Anita.