Sustainability with Style

Hi everyone! My oh my, it’s been a while, right? Life has been a little busy, but I wouldn’t change it for a minute. I will say I have truly missed chatting with you fine folks! So, what better what to get back into blogging than sharing a brand that I truly love – prAna!

This day and age, there is a lot of information about the food we eat, the cars the drive, and the clothes we wear. Within all of that info, you will find both positive and negative research and opinions. One subject that is near to my heart is sustainable clothing.

Let me tell you why.

Back in 2005, I was a freshman in college and studying fashion. I was given a topic to write about and it truly changed my life forever. My topic was fur. I’m sure you can guess what gory, mind-blowing photos and articles I quickly stumbled upon once I started my research – To say that I was completely mortified is an understatement. 

What is sustainable clothing?

I’m sure you have heard of the term, right? We hear/see several terms everyday. Non-GMO, Gluten Free, Organic, Vegan…I could go on forever. But seriously, are you familiar with what sustainable clothing is? While I’m still learning about the movement, I have a healthy respect for what it’s about. Working with prAna has been such an eye opening adventure not because of their cute clothes (which, hello, they are!), but because of their powerful mission to encourage sustainable clothing.

prAna’s purpose is to, “Pursue sustainable, traceable, and responsible action to protect our environment and inspire the adventerous spirit.”

Watch this video about the sustainable clothing movement.
http://www.prana.com/life/sustainability/why-organic-cotton-matters

It truly was an honor to work with prAna! Keep reading to see how I styled two of their amazing products. Oh, and maybe you will find a discount code!

First up, the Ellis dress. I can not tell you how comfortable this dress is! Have you ever owned a piece of clothing that instantly makes you feel good? Well, this dress does just that. Not to mention, its fabric was properly sourced and provides a source of income for those you grew the crop. It’s funnel neck and kangaroo pouch make it unforgettable! Fashion that makes you feel good, both psychically and emotionally. Total win.

I kept the look simple with sneakers and simple stud earrings. Perfect for a day at the park!

This dress allowed me to move and groove with my two kiddos. Can’t ask for much more!

My next look was more city-chic, versus casual. I paired the Uptown pant with a camp printed tee, denim jacket, suede hat, and peep toe booties. This pants are stretchy, soft, and allow you to dress them up or down. I especially love the high waist band…let’s be real, I eat! HA! 

Love the drawstring detail and cuffed bottom!

prAna’s clothing are stylish, responsibly sourced, and can take you from day to night. Check them out at www.prana.com! Don’t forget to enter the code TMF17VP for 15% off of you total. When you purchase with prAna you’re guaranteeing yourself a quality product that is properly created and positively effects those across the globe! 

What’s your favorite sustainable item in your closet? 

XO

 

 

Transitioning Your Dress for Fall

November 8, 2016

Hi y’all! How’s your day been? I hope you it’s been good one. Well, sorry for being m.i.a. lately. We have been super busy around the here. It’s that time of year, isn’t it? I love it!

It’s time for another Tip Tuesday! Today, I’m talking about transitioning your favorite dress for cooler weather. This has been something that we all deal with, right ladies? I have had asked and been asked ways to transitions items for cooler weather, especially when it’s that “in between” time of the year.                                                                   Here is Texas, it takes it a while to get down right cold.

Here, I’m wearing a simple, yet elegant dress from Laudem Deo. This dress is handmade of ethically sourced materials by women who face unemployment in South Africa.
What a powerful brand! I’m honored to share this beautiful dress. Not only does Laudem Deo create beautiful garments, as a company they care deeply about who they employ and their personal lives.

“We do this by focusing on all the people who make up our very intricate process, by considering who they are, what they’ve been through and caring deeply about the kind of lives they and their families lead in a country we love and will continue to support.” ~ Laudem Deo  

Do you have a simple maxi in your closet? Maybe something you have worn a million times, and feel that it has become boring.

Well, let me tell you how you can transform what you already have in your closet.

Accessories can make or break an outfit. They can also carry you look into another season. Here, I switched up my footwear and accessories to transform a classic wrap dress.

First, I kept things classic (and warmer-weather appropriate) with lace-up heels and a clutch.

Next, I added a classic black wrap and booties.

Last, I added faux fur stole for the ultimate coziness!

Here are a few other ways to change up your favorite dress

A denim jacket and scarf
A leather bomber and bold earrings
A statement necklace and a wrap
Bold earrings and a cropped jacket
An embellished coat or jacket and simple earrings

And finally a bold lip, statement earrings, a wrap, and booties.
The total glam look! A bold lip always counts as an accessory.

I hope you found this post helpful! As I always say, please shoot me an email at yourgalnextdoor@gmail.com or IG message if you have any styling questions.


The Gal Next Door would love to style you!

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See ya Friday! I have a simple and sweet motherhood post coming up next. Hugs, y’all!

❤︎ ❤︎ ❤︎

XO

Pattern Mixing with The Shoe Closet

Hi there, y’all! I hope you are doing well! Did you survive Halloween? Whew, we did. And we had a lot of fun! My husband liked his gifts and his b’day cake. I made the easiest Oreo dump cake. I’m thinking I may need to share it here on the blog. If you would like to see it, let me know in the comment section below.

Today’s post is the last post with The Shoe Closet. If you’re just now following along with my posts about TSC, here’s a refresher. 

Located in Wichita Falls, Tx, The Shoe Closet has been the heartbeat of fashion in Texoma since 1984. With personalized styling and a warm atmosphere, the Shoe Closet is the go-to place for all things trending. They carry brands like Alice + Olivia, Tory Burch, and the upcoming accessory line Rory Ashton. Personally, I’ve been shopping at the Shoe Closet since high school. I have always appreciated their on-point advice and diverse merchandise. I’ve really enjoyed sharing so many fun looks that TSC has to offer.

Pattern play is one of the easiest trends to rock!

Whether you wearing a patterned mixed baseball tee, layering a striped tee under a floral print cardigan, or adding a polka dot blouse under a gingham sweater, pattern mixing can be achieved on any level.

My number 1 tip: Don’t be sacred of looking too busy. If you’re wearing pattern on top, keep it simple on the bottom, or vice versa. You can wear a full patterned look. I suggest staying within the same color family and having one main print with smaller, complimentary prints. 

For this Shoe Closet look, we have a leopard print top under a reversible camo/fur jacket — instant chic! As for the denim, TSC’s Hudson jeans are black, stretchy, and have grommet detailing down the leg. How cool would these look with a simple white tee and sunnies? Again, instant chic! And to top it off, the Jeffrey Campbell booties. These are next level. The adorn heel is very big this fall/winter! TSC is always in the know in regards to footwear trends.

NEWSFLASH! You can now shop The Shoe Closet online!  They are having an anniversary till Saturday. Check it out here.

Again, a big thank you to The Shoe Closet for allowing Serena and I to shoot and share your looks! We had a blast! 

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Have any questions on how to wear pattern?

  Shoot me an email at yourgalnextdoor@gmail.com or comment below. 

The Gal Next Door would love to style you! 

❤︎❤︎❤︎

XO

The Easiest Way to Step Up Your Denim Game

Hi y’all! I hope you are having a fabulous week.

Welcome to the first Tip Tuesday!

This page is designed for all things fashion. Tips and tricks, how-to’s, and styling advice for all figures. The purpose of the page is to answer any questions you may have, offer styling ideas, and (most importantly) create a community.

Ladies, let’s get to talking!

For our first Tip Tuesday, we’re covering the all-denim trend. You’ve seen this around, I’m sure. Stars like Jennifer Lopez and Beyonce have definitely rocked this look. Want to achieve the same look? It’s super easy and flattering.

A few things to keep in mind…

Different shades of denim look best. Let’s say your jeans are a dark denim, having a lighter denim shirt will give the look a nice contrast.

Accessories are a must! Well, not really, but a pop of color is always fun. Whether you add a bold scarf (or bandana shown here), a statement necklace, or a colored hat, a bold color always adds interest to an all-denim look.

This look can be worn on any ever figure. Yes, every figure! Pick your favorite jeans, a contrasting denim shirt, and accessory or two (or three, ha)!

You’ve now created the perfect all denim look

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I hope that you enjoyed the first Tip Tuesday! Have an event coming up? Needing help styling a certain piece in your closet? Send me an email at yourgalnextdoor@gmail.com. I’d love to help!

Have a fabulous day, y’all!

❤︎❤︎❤︎

XO

Legging Love with The Shoe Closet

Hey there! Happy Tuesday, to ya! I hope you’re having a lovely week.

Another great look from the Shoe Closet is on the blog today. First off, let me start off by saying I love leggings. I mean, what’s not to love? They are versatile and so comfy.

That’s why this look from The Shoe Closet is amazing.

The handbag and shoes are designed by Stacy Bendet for Alicia + Olivia. The “Stacy Face” clutch and shoes are playful and easy to wear. The mix of black, white, and red make a statement, yet feel classic at the same time. 

The combination of a tie-neck blouse layered over a long sweater, the Stacy clutch and sneakers is, well, perfection. Comfort meats style — the epitome of what I think fashion should be all about!

Building your own legging look is super easy

What look are you going for? How about a boho legging look? Add a poncho, booties, and a floppy hat. Or, If you’re looking for something on the classic side, add a white button up blouse, cardigan, scarf, and booties. 

With leggings, possibilities are endless! 

What’s your fall go-to look? 

Until next time, y’all! 

❤︎❤︎❤︎

XO

Why You Need to Shop at BP

Hey, hey! How are things? I’m currently in catch up mode from being away for several days. I had such an amazing time celebrating one of my sweet friend’s engagement. A girl’s trip doesn’t happen very often, and I enjoyed every minute of it. Again, huge thanks to my hubby, mom, and mother in law for helping with the kids.

For today, I wanted to share one of my favorite places to shop. In fact, while on the trip, the girls and I frequently talked about BP and all of the great pieces they have. Not to mention, killer prices! So, I thought why not round up some of my favorite fall staple items to share with you guys.

First up, let’s talk about fall dresses. You may live somewhere that is cooler already, but here in Texas it’s not quite that cool yet. I’m loving the transitional dresses at BP right now. In fact, I just picked up the off-the-shoulder dress included in this collage. It’s super soft, versatile, and in the perfect shade of green.

Blush Dress                                       Green Dress 

Fall calls for versatile pants and jeans. I don’t know about you, but I’m hooked on dark denim. The dark denim jeans in this collage are only $29! Yes, please! 

Faux Leather Leggings        Denim Skinnies        Olive Leggings 

Sweaters, cardigans, and long sleeve tees are essentials when the weather dips. This oxblood cardigan is on-trend and can add a little kick to any look. 

Oxblood Cardigan           Long Sleeve Top         Knit Sweater 

Ok, I’ll let you in on a little secret. I’ve been scoring killer shade from BP for quite some time. And guess what? They’re $12! A trendy pair of shades can totally elevate your look without killing your budget. 

Blue Tint Shades                            Brown Shades

Layering a look can be easy and affordable. And of course, layers for fall!  BP is the place to pick up a few items to carry you through the season. 

Olive Green Jacket     Black Hat     Leopard Scarf     Tasseled Bag      Booties    Belt 

Click any link above to shop directly! What is your favorite spot to shop for fall? 

❤︎❤︎❤︎

XO

 

Navy Takeover with The Shoe Closet

Hey there! How is everyone? The past weekend was rough, yet sweet for us. My son came down with some a yucky infection this past week. Needless to say, this momma was super worried about her baby chick. All is well now! As a parent, doesn’t it feel like your world stops when your kiddo(s) are sick? On the other hand, my husband and I celebrated out 6th anniversary. Oh, how I love him so much. I think I’ll keep him! 

Today, I’m so excited to be sharing two looks from The Shoe Closet. Like I mentioned a couple weeks ago, I have teamed up with The Shoe Closet to share some of their fall/winter pieces through out September and October. Located in Wichita Falls, Tx, The Shoe Closet is a premier boutique that carries clothing, accessories, and footwear. With brands like Show Me Your Mumu, Parker, and Jeffrey Campbell, The Shoe Closet is the place to shop for the freshest and on-trend pieces.

Make sure you read this entire post. There might be a little surprise waiting for you at the bottom!

Today at TGND, it’s all about navy. I’ve always been such a fan of the color and Fall ’16 is navy’s time to shine. Said to be the color of sophistication, elegance, and power, navy is where it’s at.

Navy is the new black.

First up, let’s talk about the navy dress by Milly. Oh my! I instantly feel in love with the fabric (super soft and stretchy) and detailed sleeves of this Milly dress. Paired with the Stuart Weitzman block heel booties and B. Stellar necklace, this look is on fire!

For me, versatility is always key, and this dress is just that. Add pumps and a clutch or a cardigan and booties, this LND (yes, I’m making a new acronym) is the perfect fall go-to. I’m a curvy girl and I totally felt confident wearing this fitted style. I’m still working on my confidence, but I’m determined to be 100% in love with my body. Why not embrace it?

The B. Stellar necklace is 14k gold choker and chain adorn with a clear quartz. The stone is said to block negative energy and give balance. Oh, and the best part? B. Stellar is located in Dallas. I love nothing more than representing Texas-made products! You can find many more pieces at The Shoe Closet.

Next up, a very sleek and modern jumpsuit by Trina Turk. The asymmetrical fabric is super flattering and add an instantly “cool” factor! This jeweled long necklace gives just the right amount of sparkle. Have an event coming up? I would highly suggest reaching for a jumpsuit. They have a fresh, yet timeless feel that can make any woman feel amazing.

Ok, as promised, I’ll share the surprise. The Shoe Closet is currently offering a chance to win a $100 gift card! Trust me, you want to be in the running for this. Especially with the cooler temps around the corner, it’s time to start thinking about transintioning your closet. A gift card is the perfect jumpstart to your fall wardrobe.

How to enter? Head to The Shoe Closet! After grabbing something super stylish, mention this post to put your name in the mix. Can’t make into the store? Give The Shoe Closet a call at (940) 322-6300. With purchase, mention The Gal Next Door to be entered to win the $100 gift card. They can help you with sizing or any questions you may have over the phone.

The contest will end Friday, October 7th.

Now, hurry and get your name in the running to win! I hope you guys have lovely week! Later this week, I’ll be sharing a sweet moment with one of my favorite people, my sweet momma.

❤︎❤︎❤︎

XO

Obaku Watches

Hey there! It’s Friday and all is right in the world. Am I right? I’m so happy that football has started—fall is quickly approaching. Bring it on!

For today’s post, I’m honored to be sharing a fabulous watch by Obaku.

Based in Denmark, Obaku watches are sleek, modern, and timeless. Obaku’s company perspective is part functionality, part zen. “The idea that there should be a sense of calm and balance in the items we use to adorn ourselves is what have birth to the Obaku collection.” Obaku Watches. 

Along with making elegant watches, Obaku gives back to several great foundations and causes. For instances, they are active supporters of Dress for Success Charlotte and Susan G. Komen. Also, they have a ‘Save the Forest’ line that donates $10 from each purchase to ‘Conservation International’.

The watch I’m wearing here has a white leather band, white dial, and gold case with just the right amount of sparkle. Which is completley necessary, right?

From a fashion perspective, Obaku’s watches can be worn now, in a year, and forty years from now. Trends come and go, but a classic style will last forever. Combined with superior craftsmanship and materials, the Obaku watch will stand the test of time.

I will be wearing my Obaku for years to come.

Life is in the moment, in a glimpse, in a watch.
Obaku

Take a look at what Obaku has to offer. I guarantee you will find something you love!

Obaku // Facebook 
Oabku // Pinterest 
Instagram // @Obakudenmark

www.obaku.com

Happy, happy weekend! See ya next week!

❤︎❤︎❤︎

XO

Fringe and Flares

Can’t resist that golden light!

Hey, hey! I hope y’all are doing well!! 

Today’s post is a little lighter than the last Fridays. Although, I had a lot of sweet comments (both in the digital world and in real life, ha!). I’m glad that you guys enjoyed it.  Did you check it out? Click here to read it. Please let me know if there is anything you would love to see on the blog. Is there a new beauty product I should test? Or a new recipe you’re wanting to try but don’t have time? Let me know 🙂

A few weeks back I traveled to Graham, Texas and shopped at a sweet little boutique called Grass Stains. This fringe top is one of my purchases. See their fun IG account here. 

I love it! The fabric is super soft and I adore the cross back detailing. Paired with flares and simple jewelry, this top speaks for itself. I will take this ensemble into fall by adding a leather jacket, skinnies, and booties. Now, I will sit and wait on the Texas weather to cool off—c’mon and hurry, please. 


❤︎❤︎❤︎

XO