XOXO, Gossip Girl

Good evening, Upper East Siders (and the rest of the world). It's been a mere 24 hours since the 'Gossip Girl' series finale. If you are anything like me, you are already feeling the void. From Blair's headbands, to Chuck's bow ties, 'Gossip Girl' never fails to provide style inspiration.

An overachieving brunette that occasionally models her appearance and demeanor after Audrey Hepburn, it is no surprise that the preppy and polished Blair Waldorf is my favorite character. Blair is always perfectly composed from head to toe.

In honor of Blair's impeccable style, here a some of my favorite ensembles throughout the years.

You know you love me. XOXO, Gossip Girl

Election Day

I think I have done a pretty good job so far keeping my political views to myself in the workplace. We are so close now. With tomorrow being Election Day, it will undoubtedly be the most challenging yet. 

I can honestly say that I have almost a sick feeling in my stomach until the results are in. You would think that I was up for election. 

Whatever your views may be, I hope that you have taken the time to research and become educated about the issues before casting your vote. 

A Bunch of Hocus Pocus

Time Honored Halloween Traditions:

Go to the pumpkin patch

Watch Hocus Pocus

Bake pumpkin seeds

Go on a hay ride

Bob for apples

Have toilet paper mummy races

Dance to the "Monster Mash"

Eat lots of candy

Useless Things That You Absolutely Must Have

With this being campaign season, I have been relatively quiet in the blogosphere. A campaign goal of $80.7 million can be a bit daunting. More hours are needed in the day, and the opportunity to sit down and write does not usually arise. That said, I absolutely adore my job and don't mind putting in the extra time to make Atlanta a better place for all to live, work, and play. Now, back to the real reason for the post--

This week was the Atlanta Apparel Mart so my favorite clothing designer is in town. It has been great having TN (Tracy Negoshian) as my roommate. Today, while we waited on Mint Julep to open, we had quite the time in Richards Variety Store. The store has an impressive collection of classic toys and books, quirky cards, and a bunch of other useless things that you absolutely MUST have. 

A brief selection of our findings--

Southern Belles Paper Dolls:
This may have saved 6 year old me from wanting to play with my Madame Alexander Gone With the Wind dolls. Unfortunately, Scarlett and Melanie were not for playing.

For All Formal Emergencies:
What man doesn't need an emergency bow tie? Not any that I would be interested in. That's for sure. 

Good Manners Flash Cards:
A wonderful way to make learning etiquette fun. For ages 3 and up. These could also come in handy for certain adults who are not quite sure "what to do" and "what to say." 

At Your Service Bell:
The infamous-post surgery bell decides to make another appearance. Perfect gift for someone that is in need of care? Perhaps not.

Fingerstache:
Add flair anywhere with these temporary tattoos. Instantaneously look more worldly or sophisticated with just the placement of your finger. These were purchased for use next weekend.

Sangria for Seminoles

Question: What is better than a giant pitcher full of sangria?
Answer: A giant Seminole pitcher full of sangria to enjoy during the game!

Recipe for my FAVORITE sangria (per batch):
Fresh fruit (watermelon, cantaloupe, honeydew, grapes)
Bottle of merlot or cab
Couple shots of brandy
1/2 large bottle of Dekuyper Peachtree Schnapps
Orange juice (optional)

A Garnet & Gold Gameday!

It's that time again. College football season is starting. You know what that means..tradition, pride, and pageantry. For some ladies, dressing for a football game means throwing on jeans and a tee, a sweatshirt, or God forbid, a jersey. When I cheer on my alma mater, this is never the case. I strongly believe sundresses are the only way to go, especially for those of us in the South. 

With that said, there are certainly challenges associated with searching for dresses each year in garnet and gold. Do not fret. I did the legwork for you. All you have to do is accessorize with your favorite spirit button (pin). Here are some of my findings that are perfect for any dress-loving Seminole fan:

Florida State University Allie Dress from  Emma Graham Designs

Renegade's Dress from  VerSei

Tomahawk Dress from Twelve Saturdays

Chevron Dress from Shop Dandy Boutique

Large Daisy Post Earrings in Garnet/Gold from  DKM Accessories

Mini Daisy Post Earrings in Garnet/Gold from  DKM Accessories

Garnet & Gold Navajo Sandal from Jack Rogers

Style -- Republican National Convention

Delegates from all 50 states, the District of Columbia, and five U.S. territories will gather in Tampa next week to nominate the GOP's candidates for President and Vice President of the United States. Show off your American conservatism at the 2012 Republican National Convention with some of my favorites listed below.  

Red Maria Flat with Elephant Brooch by Diana E. Kelly

Red Monica Cork Wedge with Elephant Brooch by  Diana E. Kelly

Red and Old Blue Tattersall Headband by High Cotton Ties

Red Cork Clutch with Elephant Brooch by Diana E. Kelly

Republican Needlepoint Belt by Smathers and Branson

Reaganomics Needlepoint Belt by Tucker Blair

Republican Needlepoint Cufflinks by Smathers and Branson

Stars and Stripes Reversible Bow Tie by High Cotton Ties

For more RNC style for both ladies and gentlemen, I recommend Two's A Company. Molly and Sally write a fabulous blog that you will just adore. 

A Little Philanthropic Inspiration

Tracy Negoshian Sale!

Attention all TN fans: Today is your lucky day! The entire Tracy Negoshian website is now on sale. Yes, you read that correctly. EVERYTHING on www.tracynegoshian.com is reduced from its original price. These gorgeous pieces will go fast so make your purchases while they are still available.

Here are a few of my favorites that just went on sale:



Brynly Braided Shift Dress  

Nicole Key-Hole Shift

Molly One-Shoulder Dress

Kyle One-Shoulder Ruffle Maxi

TEAM USA: Patriotic Fashion Picks

Who’s proud to be an American? Well, the 2012 Olympics are the perfect opportunity to show that patriotism.

These next two weeks are going to be filled with parties, cheering, and of course, some serious American pride. What better way to show our U.S. Olympic Team spirit than dressing the part while we proudly chant “U-S-A” with every event.  

Whether we are wearing our nation's colors, stars and stripes, or full-on Old Glory, we are definitely wearing our pride on our sleeves with these patriotic fashion picks.

His & Her Patriotic Attire

Flag Scarf from ThreeBirdNest on Etsy

Kiss My Southern Sass Merica Tank

JFK Croffix Sailing Rope Belt by Kiel James Patrick

Vineyard Vines USA Whale Logo Hat

Nantucket and Royal Blue Reversible Bow Tie by High Cotton

'MERICAS Shorts by Chubbies

Nantucket Style At Your Fingertips

When I saw that Rue La La was starting its "Road Trip Across America" in Nantucket, my eyes lit up. Classically preppy pieces at a discount - who can resist? Not this girl.

For those of you who have not yet discovered Rue La La, here is the deal. Rue La La is the Members-only destination that delivers everything you need for a life of style. Rue La La's private sale boutiques feature some of the most sought-after brands in clothing, accessories, footwear, home, travel, wine, gourmet food, local services, and more.

Sales begin daily at 11 AM ET. I strongly recommend the App from iTunes for fashion at your fingertips. Each day at around 11:03 AM, Rue La La will send a nice little reminder to your iPhone to assure you don’t miss out. Quickly scroll through the daily offerings, make your selections, and complete your purchase with the credit card information saved on file. That's it. You are able to continue about your day.

If you missed the Nantucket sale, do not fret. Rue La La gives you access almost daily to brands that will surely fill the void.

• Brooks Brothers
• Vineyard Vines
• Lilly Pulitzer
• Jack Rogers
• Tory Burch
• Kate Spade

You’re invited: Check it out for yourself.

CLICK HERE FOR RUE LA LA INVITATION

You will become addicted. Don't say I didn't warn you.

What is your personality type?

There is a good chance that at one or more times in your life, probably in school, perhaps in the workplace, someone made you take a personality test. For me, the first time I recall taking one of these personality tests was in college. My results included four letters that meant absolutely nothing to me and a few corresponding career recommendations. Thinking nothing of it, I went on my merry way.

Fast forward a few years and I am in the workplace. Once again I am introduced to this same personality test. This time someone actually explains what it is, what my results mean, and how it can be used.

The personality test I am referring to is the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI).

According to Wikipedia, the MBTI preferences indicate the differences in people based on the following:

• How they focus their attention or get their energy (extraversion or introversion)
• How they perceive or take in information (sensing or intuition)
• How they prefer to make decisions (thinking or feeling)
• How they orient themselves to the external world (judgment or perception)

The more I learn about MBTI and my type, the more I am fascinated. I am an ENFJ, and the description of my type could not be more accurate. 

ENFJs account for about 2–5% of the population. ENFJs understand and care about people, and have a special talent for bringing out the best in others. ENFJ's main interest in life is giving love, support, encouragement, and a good time to others. They make things happen for people, and get their best personal satisfaction from this. They take note of what is being done and what needs doing, offering their assistance wherever necessary. They are natural cheerleaders.

ENFJs enjoy organizing group activities and tend to take their commitments seriously. They are reliable and do not like to disappoint others. As team players and leaders, they have a gift for rallying their team, focusing on each member's strengths. They are loyal and they expect loyalty. They carry conversations well, finding common ground with all they speak to. They tend to find the correct and gracious way to respond in any given situation, no matter how tense or uncomfortable it is.

More so than any other type, ENFJs have excellent people skills.

ENFJ: President Ronald Reagan

ENFJ: Oprah Winfrey

What is your personality type? Find out here.

Vineyard Vines Atlanta Store

Vineyard Vines is opening a store at Lenox next month (August 2012). Additionally, with the recent openings of Lilly Pulitzer at Phipps, and Sperry Top-Sider at Perimeter, there is evidence of a growing demand for preppy retailers in the Atlanta market.

Up until now, this blog has concentrated solely on style for females. This post seems like the perfect opportunity to work in a little something for the gentlemen. It is no secret that I favor a preppy style for men. This is sometimes referred to as classic, all-American, or clean-cut.

No matter what you want to call it, Vineyard Vines does it well. Gentlemen, take note.

Whale Shirt

Sandy Point Tucker Shirt

Clubhouse Shorts

Jersey 1/4 Zip

Fish Hook Belt