Anything But Pencil Pusher

Pencil skirts have always been and will always be a staple in every woman's wardrobe. They come in black, navy, pink, houndstooth, but let's try something new, something unexpected. A patterned pencil.

JC Penny, Worthington Side Zip Pencil, $25

This skirt is absolutely gorgeous. The geometric print mixed with bursts of color, and hello, the price.

Modcloth, Mushroom for Another Skirt, $54

A sweet mushroom print skirt that is just adorable for an office setting with a white tie silk blouse.

Kohl's, Simple Vera Wang Plaid Ponte Pencil Skirt, $24

A fabulous almost watercolor canvas design for a skirt. You go Vera.

Nordstrom, Vince Camuto Ornate Paisley Pencil, $89

Are you kidding me? I'm beyond smitten with this skirt. You know who would wear this? Wait for it...Kate freaking Middleton. Go, go now and buy it.

I could wear a pencil skirt 9-5 everyday for the rest of eternity but I'm just loving the opportunity to mix in some sass. Embrace the pattern!

Be fabulous today!

Wrap it in a Pattern

Wrap dresses have always and will always be the best work dress ever. They are easy, comfortable and come in a color or pattern to fit any style. Today's we're checking out some fantastic patterned wrap dresses.

Nordstrom, BCBG Elia Striped Wrap Dress, $95

These colors are amazing. I love the half and half style, very geometric and graphic.

Ann Taylor, Graphic Wrap Print Dress, $69

Black and white never looked so sophisticated. Beautiful neck line and 3/4 length sleeves.

Modcloth, Bold You So Dress, $49

So can we see this on a 60s sitcom? I love it. I want it.

Nordstrom, Donna Ricco Blouson Sleeve Jersey Dress, $79

Well hello lovely! Check out this fantastic pattern. And those sleeves add a little something extra.

A pattern wrap dress is pretty much the easiest thing to throw on in the morning. No major accessories to think about and you can even throw your hair in a pony tail because of the great necklines.

Be fabulous today!

Pattern Pencils

I love to wear a pencil skirt to work because it comes in so many colors and you can match with essentially anything. Right now, patterned pencil skirts are very popular and just like patterned shorts and crop pants, this is going to be huge.

Ann Taylor, Caliente Muses Print, $88

Does this skirt scream spring or what? I would love to add an unexpected color on top like a silk khaki colored shirt or maybe a nice jewel tone.

Target, Gray print skirt, $18

Who doesn't need a ready to wear to work pencil skirt for UNDER $20?

Talbots, Flower garden print skirt, $79

The mix of pink and orange petals is just beautiful in this micro-print.

Banana Republic, animal print pencil skirt, $69

I love the big print on this skirt, it's graphic and fun and great to spice up your 9 to 5.

Are you wearing brights, patterns or both this spring? How do you style your pencil skirt?

Be fabulous today!

Pattern Purse

Yesterday we looked at some great red clutches, today let's stay with the purse topic and look at some great patterned bags!

Gap, Ikat Canvas Tote, $44

Loving the double strap on this tote. And the color and pattern combination is very casual and chic.

Last Call Neiman Marcus, Turn-lock cross body sequin bag, $80

So many great things going on here, sequins, color, pattern, hardware. Great little bag for the weekend.

Macy's, Red by Marc Eko Handbag Wound Up Tote, $49

A mutli color chevron tote! How great for spring?

Nordstrom, Tasha Caged Minaudière, $88

This clutch is downright tropical but in a great dressy way. The bamboo inspired closure is a great added detail.

Pattern is always fun to wear, especially when its with an accessory like a bag or scarf. 

Be fabulous today!

Waves

Let's continue the print trend I seem to be hooked on this week and look at a specific pattern: waves.

Forever 21, Wave Striped Sweater, $22

This is a great dual season sweater; wear as is in the summer and when it gets cold layer under a crisp white button down shirt.

Modcloth, Weave 'em Breathless, $69

I think this is the definition of 'va, va, boom'.

Nordstrom, Gold Water Texture Bangles, $32

The light wave of these bangles are quite light and airy, great for layering.

Asos, People's Market Blouse with Velvet Print, $62

Vertical waves. How fresh!

This is a very specific pattern but one that is so different than your average stripe, don't you think?

Be fabulous today!

Ikat's Meow

Ikat.  What is it? Well it's weaving pattern that uses resist dyeing similar to tie dye.  It probably originated in Central America but now we are seeing a similar type of pattern pop up in today's styles.

This pattern is busy, colorful, and just beautiful.  Take a look!

Macy's, Cha Cha Vente dress, $68

Some of my favorite colors and a great kimono sleeve.  I love this with gladiator sandals.

Forever 21, Ikat romper, $11.50

Ok, I'm still not sure if I can pull off a romper- but for $11 it's worth a shot!

Ann Taylor, Feline ikat print shell, $78

This ruffle necline is beautiful and I really like this pattern for under a suit or with skinny jeans.

Nordstrom, Sequin large ikat enamel bangle, $42

Just gorgeous.  A little bohemian, a little dressy, perfect.

Anthropologie, Liquid Rhombus Scarf, $19.95

Great spring piece to add to your collection.  Comes in two other colors as well.

I'm really loving the ikat style print for spring and summer.  It feels very sunny and breezy.  And the jewelry is versatile.  

Be fabulous today!

Prints and Patterns

People who are afraid of prints are lame. All of these people walking around in their solid colors, bland blocks of fabric- it is just so blah. Embrace the unexpected element of a pattern. Fearful? Its ok! Start small, a headband, a ballet flat, even a bag. Then figure out what kinds of patterns you like best: funky, preppy, modern, etc. You'll find your print just like you've found colors that you look great in. Here are some of my favorites that aren't super loud. Just remember be bold, own the statement.

-Also note, I'm starting Friday Foodday which will feature 3 easy to make and delicious recipes. If you have any ideas or suggestions please comment, tweet, or email me!

Like I said, start small: patterned cubicle wallpaper. So cool
Cubicle Paper, Blue Lagoon, $8.99

Target, Merona Thick Stripe Wallet, $12.99

Macys, Tommy Hilfiger Vest, $38.99

Nordstroms, Suzi Chin Maggy Ruched Cotton Sheath Dress, $69.90

Yes even PJs, why not??
Nordstroms, Salvage Classic Poplin, $31.90

J Crew, Patterned Classic Ballet Flat, $69.99

Newport News, Plaid Cotton Voile Tunic, $29

Steve Madden, Ulltra, $79.95

Macys, Jones New York Dress, $44.99

Don't forget to send me your recipes for tomorrow!