personal style – A Cup of Candor

Wednesday Wardrobe – Date Night

July 12, 2017On Life2 Comments

What to wear on date night?

Well, it depends where you’re going. There are so many different things to do on your night out, and your outfit should reflect what you might do and what makes you feel pretty and comfortable. Today’s Wednesday Wardrobe features different scenarios for different date nights.

An Early Evening Strolling the Town

I love early evening, but since the sun stays out for a while in the summers, a hat and sunglasses may be needed. This little lightweight dress is from Xhilaration. Shoes by Indigo. It’s light and breezy and keeps me cool in the summer heat. It also doesn’t wrinkle. Bonus!

Summer Concert

On a cooler summer evening, you might want to throw on some jeans and a cute top for a night listening to music. Jeans and top from White House Black Market. Cranberry booties from Sonoma.

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Dinner Under the Stars

Get ready for that great night having dinner under the stars. For a romantic night out, you may want to opt for a pretty black dress–this one’s by Robbie Bee from Nordstrom–and some black heels–these from Adrienne Vittadini.

Double Date

Meeting friends for a double date for cocktails? This Society Amuse dress is fluttery and feminine. Got it in a boutique in Charleston on vacation.

Stephanie Verni is Professor of Business Communication at Stevenson University and is the author of Inn Significant, Baseball Girl, and Beneath the Mimosa Tree. Along with her colleagues Leeanne Bell McManus and Chip Rouse, she is a co-author of Event Planning: Communicating Theory and Practice, published by Kendall-Hunt.

Wednesday Wardrobe – Wearing White

June 28, 2017June 28, 2017On LifeLeave a Comment

0ac3ff1fae94272cb2b16b8af62548ad My new color this year is white. I know it’s not that radical or anything, but white is a great color for most skin types, and paired the right way, it can give you that classic look, no matter what the occasion. A versatile white dress in summertime looks clean and cool; a white coat in winter beats the doldrums of winter and reminds us of snow.

Think about adding a little more white to your wardrobe if you assess your closet and notice you have a lack of white mixed in among your other colors.

Here are some of my favorite white pieces I own.

Screen Shot 2017-06-28 at 10.43.57 AM — This Boho dress from Nordstrom is one of my favorites. Shoes are from Jessica Simpson at DSW. This photo was taken to promo my upcoming visit to Oxford for a book signing. Can’t wait. Also can’t wait for my hair to grow a little. It’s a bit too short!

Screen Shot 2017-06-28 at 10.44.22 AM — These white pants from White House Black Market are my favorite summer pants. Love them. Top is from Anthropologie. If you get some time this summer, I hope you enjoy a good book. The one I’m reading here is called The Lost Wife by Alyson Richman.

Screen Shot 2017-06-28 at 10.46.24 AM — This off-white bare-shoulder blouse is from Charming Charlie. I wear it all the time with jeans.

Screen Shot 2017-06-28 at 10.47.41 AM — This winter white coat was my best score last year. I love it, and the combination of black and white always looks classic. Briefcase from Lulu’s.

Wednesday Wardrobe – A New Summer Feature For Regular Women

June 7, 2017June 7, 2017On Life1 Comment

**THE OUTFIT:** This little number (Orioles orange, please notice!) is from Target and Victoria Beckham. She had a short stint with Target earlier this year, and I saw this piece and loved it. The shoes are Audrey Brooke, and the hat is from Nicole Marciano. Shades by Giorgio Armani Exchange. My apologies for not having a tan. We’ve had some strange weather here in Maryland–it’s still chilly and not summer-like at all! **STYLE TIP:** One color shade (and also one monotone piece) on the top and bottom can elongate a frame. I’m only 5’1″ and this helps not break the line of color, which in turn, adds length.

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On Saturday night at an Orioles Reunion at Camden Yards in Baltimore a collection of former Orioles front office employees and full-time friends got together (and had a ball). My friend, Michelle, mentioned how much she loved the “Frocktober” fashion thing I did last October. She said she enjoyed it — and so did I. Her comment inspired me and got me thinking that while there are lots and lots of gorgeous photos of women on Instagram in gorgeous clothing, I’m a real girl. I’m not a model, nor will I ever be one. I’m middle-aged, not skinny, and I’ve got curves, but I do possess one thing that I’ve learned over the years as a fashion consultant: I know how to dress my body type. I also love to stay current with fashion and have fun with it.

*Some of my very stylish friends and former Orioles front office employees at Camden Yards on Saturday night for a reunion.*

Which leads me to this: I’ve decided revamp my blog a little and include a weekly fashion segment for REGULAR WOMEN. You know, keep it real (and with a budget in mind). I’ll be sharing what I wear on Instagram and where I bought the items, and then I’ll do a weekly recap on WEDNESDAYS here on the blog.

As for more restructuring on Steph’s Scribe, on MONDAYS it will be like POTPOURRI, and I will get to write about whatever I want; on FRIDAYS, I’ll continue to feature FICTION FRIDAY and write about all things pertaining to writing.

My husband always tells me that my blog is too vague, that it doesn’t have a set niche. Well, now I’ve got one. I’m structured (he’ll love that, as I tend to be a bit of a creative type and not be too structured).

Fashion, to me, is creative–sort of like writing your own book every day. You get to pick out what you want to wear and make it yours. It’s an outward expression of yourself. The only rules are that (1) you should love the pieces you buy, and (2) you should feel good in them.

That’s it. That’s the blog restructuring for the summer. I hope you will enjoy my new setup.

The Idea Behind Creating Your Own Work Uniform

May 29, 2017On Life3 Comments

Matilda Kahl from Bazaar Magazine’s piece about creating a work uniform. Photo credit: Bazaar Magazine.

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A couple of years ago, I came across an article in Bazaar Magazine written by Matilda Kahl, an art director for a leading advertising agency located in New York. This article fascinated me for several reasons: (1) because, like her, I consider myself a creative type, (2) because I love fashion and am always trying to figure out ways to build a more successful and professional wardrobe, and (3) because for a short stint, I was a fashion consultant. After reading Matilda’s article about why she decided to establish her own “work uniform,” I was intrigued, and I’ve shared this with every section of my Internship Preparation class each semester. As you can imagine, some lively discussions ensued.

The premise of Matilda’s decision to build a black and white work uniform is based in logic and created for simplicity. By taking the “creativity” out of selecting and creating a fashionable and unique outfit each day for work, Matilda puts that energy to work for her incredibly creative job. Her black and white uniform consists of black bottoms and white or cream-colored tops; she accessorizes with scarves or bows. Additionally, she said she did not skimp on the quality of her clothes; she bought designer clothing and expensive tops and bottoms that she cares for, but the overall idea was that she never has to worry if anything matches or doesn’t work. The simplicity of the way she dresses is always in style.

Look—let’s be real—I don’t know how many of us (a) WANT to do this, or (b) WOULD ENJOY doing this and not get BORED, but it certainly is food for thought. It takes away a lot of stress in the morning when one is rushing out the door for work. And, it does allow room for creative energy to be used elsewhere.

I’ve looked at my own closet—it’s filled with black, that’s for sure. I could surely buy more white tops and make this happen.

Will I? I don’t know. But it sure is an enticing thought.

To read Matilda’s article, click here.

My version of black and white (and a little maroon).

The ever classic black dress. Photo taken outside our office at the NEW Kevin J. Manning Academic Center at Stevenson University.

Fashion Friday: Finding Your Style Over A Certain Age

January 20, 2017January 20, 2017On Life1 Comment

fashion When I used to work as a fashion consultant, one of the biggest rules I preached was to ignore trends—to not get sucked into a fad just because it was hot, especially if it didn’t work for your body type. But that rule becomes rather difficult to adhere to when fashion changes and certain styles of clothing become appealing. For example, the straight-legged jean was something I thought I would avoid at all costs because of its tendency to make hips look larger than they are, especially for those of us who have undeniable curves. I look better in a boot cut jean that is fitted properly. All my years of hoping that the straight-legged jean would not come back in fashion was wasted, as it (a) became fashionable and trendy, and (2) because I ditched my own advice and now wear them, curves and all. The trick is to outsmart the straight-legged jean and find some balance with it…in order to keep your body in check and in proportion. I tend to wear mind tucked into tall boots, or with the right style of shoe.

screen-shot-2016-10-16-at-7-23-23-pm — Even though the straight-legged jean is in, this boot cut jean works best on my body. The cut of the leg balances out my hips, but I still wear the straight jean, as you will see below.

fullsizerender-15 — This trend is popular–flutter tops. This is the one I got from Anthropologie. And notice that the straight-legged jean is tucked into my boots, which elongates the body and tricks the eye. I look taller than I am.

I think we tend to believe that as we age, we have to let go of some trends simply because we are aging. There is definitely some truth to that. However, there is also truth in this statement: it’s your life—wear whatever the hell you want if it makes you feel good about yourself. When I go into Anthropologie, I know I’m not going to be able to sport all the different kinds of clothes that are in there, but I LOVE that store, so I search for pieces that will suit me now, at my age, in order to remain trendy and stylish. I’m not trying to dress like my students, mind you (I couldn’t pull that off), but there are certainly some things I still have the gumption to try and wear. I do like to stay current.

overthekneeboots — I wasn’t sure I could pull off this trend, but I do like it a lot – Over the Knee Boots. So fun!

fullsizerender-19 — The Cold Shoulder Trend. Very popular right now.

SATURDAY | #FROCKTOBER | Day 22 Spending the day with family, catching up on grading papers, and being a chauffeur to my children in this comfy #ootd. Top from #charmingcharlie; stretch leggings #verawang; cranberry boots by #francosarto. An old leopard bag for fun and shades on my head from #anntaylor. — Another example of the Cold Shoulder Trend from my Frocktober posts.

img_4652-2 — Another variation of the Cold Shoulder sweater.

fullsizerender-19-copy-2 — Because I’m petite, I’m always afraid of being out of proportion, but I love faux fur. This poncho has just the right amount, keeping me balanced.

#FROCKTOBER Day 27 | Singing in the rain 🎶 as only 4 days remain of my month-long fashion feature for the blog. Today's #ootd features faux fur and lace. Dress #anntaylor; faux fur vest with thin belt by #jolt; lace-up black boots by #stevemaddenluxe. Fishnet stockings. See what I mean? Somehow I always gravitate toward black clothing. Happy Almost Friday, all! 💌💌💌 — Another faux fur piece…a vest with a tie around the waist to keep me in proportion. Love this piece. I wear it with dresses and jeans.

Nevertheless, the true trick to dressing well after a certain age it to always consider proportion of the clothing. Just as you must consider proportion when you are decorating your home, the same holds true when decorating your own body. It’s all about proportion.

Colors also play a huge factor in how clothing looks on you. Be sure to know if you are better in warmer tones (earthy tones such as browns, beiges, greens, yellows, oranges, etc.) or in cooler tones (often referred to as jewel tones, such as emerald green, sapphire blue, true red, black, and deep purple). If you are a cooler-toned person, you may not want to wear severe colors around your face, or, if you are a cooler-toned person and you love orange, you can wear it, but it would probably be best served on your lower half. The color of your hair, skin tone, and eyes play into what colors generally look best on you.

This is a good example of how a vibrant jewel tone can give your face some life.

But all that is just a bunch of hogwash unless you feel good in the clothes you wear. If you need help finding out what is best for you, hire a consultant to take you shopping and do your colors. Once you learn what works best both proportionally and color-wise, you’ll never wonder again.

That’s not to say we don’t break the rules now and then. We all do. But you’ll find confidence and stay fashionable all your life if you remember this one thing:

Style is truly what you make of it; it’s about how you wear the pieces you choose, not the pieces themselves.

xx |

signature Stephanie Verni is the author of Baseball Girl, Beneath the Mimosa Tree, and the upcoming novel Inn Significant. She is also a co-author of Event Planning: Communicating Theory and Practice, published by Kendall-Hunt.

A Few Last Thoughts on Fashion

November 7, 2016November 7, 2016On LifeLeave a Comment

screen-shot-2016-11-07-at-4-38-04-pm — In the midst of my month-long fashion blog, I came across this. I know it’s so important to live in the moment and not take anything for granted. So, wherever you are, be all there. 🙂

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Several people have come up to me recently and told me they enjoyed the #FROCKTOBER feature I posted over the course of the month. A few others have told me I inspired their style. These kind of comments thrill me–I am so glad I could inspire you or give you some ideas for your own style.

But here’s the thing: you are you—you are not me, I am not someone else, and so on—and so we should let our own personalities shape our own fashion. We should experiment and have fun with it. I remember reading a piece about “Things Not to Wear After 40” and the bottom line was that you should wear whatever the hell you want. If you want to try some new trends, purchase a new type of shoe, add some bling to your accessories and handbags, I say GO FOR IT. You only live once. Why live vicariously through someone else when you can do it for yourself?

Fashion comes and goes, but style is how you make it your own. I’m not going to be posting fashion as a regular blog item, but I will keep my eyes on fashion and post as I have in the past about interesting things that come along. And who knows…maybe I’ll give #FROCKTOBER another try next year.

In the meantime, I’ve got a novel to finish.

Below are the outfits I wore for the rest of the last week of #FROCKTOBER. I post on Instagram a lot more than I do here on the blog or on Facebook, so if you want to follow along on my next journey, you can find me on Instagram @stephverni.

Have a great week! xx

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Gotta get back to my writing... — Gotta get back to my writing…

xx |

signature Stephanie Verni is the author of Baseball Girl, Beneath the Mimosa Tree, and the co-author of Event Planning: Communicating Theory and Practice.

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What I Wore This Week | #FROCKTOBER Week 5

October 30, 2016October 30, 2016On LifeLeave a Comment

We are nearing the end, my friends. For a little more than 30 days (and day number 31 remaining), I have documented what I’ve worn during the month of #FROCKTOBER. We all have vices; my vice happens to be clothes, shoes, and accessories. Ever since I was little, I’ve pretty much loved playing dress up…even now as an adult it’s something I love to do. I know there are far more important things to concern ourselves with, and besides writing, clothes and fashion and style happen to all be my favorite pastime. I enjoy playing mix and match, figuring out what my style mood is each day, and then trying to build something fun with what I’ve got in my closet…or perhaps purchasing something new I want to add to the ensemble.

A little purchasing tip I used to tell my clients was this: If you can’t wear a particular item with at least three things or in three different ways, don’t buy it. Adding versatility to a wardrobe is important, and being able to mix and match pieces is how you will get more value out of your items and extend your wardrobe.

I’ve had a lot of fun doing this month-long feature, and while I don’t think I’ll ever become a full-fledged fashion blogger, I will definitely continue to incorporate it into my blog. One thought I have is to rekindle the Fashion Fridays I used to do with features such as building a capsule wardrobe or showing how one piece can be worn six ways. I’m toying with some of this now. I’d also like to do a feature on business clothing and business casual dressing in the workplace, something I talk to my students about in the Internship Preparation course.

I’ve got one more day left, but I may just finish out the week before I hang up #FROCKTOBER. Thanks for letting me play dress up and for following along.

#FROCKTOBER | Day 23 Got the #Sunday vibes in this flannel #ootd. #soclothing flannel shirtdress; leggings and grey suede boots from #Boden. It's the start of my last week of #frocktober ... gotta pick some winners this week! The pressure's on... — #FROCKTOBER | Day 23 Got the #Sunday vibes in this flannel #ootd. #soclothing flannel shirtdress; leggings and grey suede boots from #Boden. It’s the start of my last week of #frocktober … gotta pick some winners this week! The pressure’s on…

#FROCKTOBER | Day 24 With cooler temperatures moving in this week, it was time to sport a little faux fur in today's #ootd. Sweater with fur trim from #whitehouseblackmarket; skirt--an old favorite from #mossimo; tall pointed black boots from #charlesdavid; #maddengirl hat; #coach bag. Hope you all have a good week. Looking forward to rolling into Halloween next week and to celebrating my husband and my 19th anniversary. — #FROCKTOBER | Day 24 With cooler temperatures moving in this week, it was time to sport a little faux fur in today’s #ootd. Sweater with fur trim from #whitehouseblackmarket; skirt–an old favorite from #mossimo; tall pointed black boots from #charlesdavid; #maddengirl hat; #coach bag. Hope you all have a good week. Looking forward to rolling into Halloween next week and to celebrating my husband and my 19th anniversary.

#FROCKTOBER | Day 25 Wearing #Boden from top to bottom in today's #ootd -- corduroy dress in navy and medium blue with (Elvis would be happy) blue suede (shoes) boots. #Mudd hat. It's chilly here and feels like fall. 🍁🍂🎃 Have a good evening, everyone! — #FROCKTOBER | Day 25 Wearing #Boden from top to bottom in today’s #ootd — corduroy dress in navy and medium blue with (Elvis would be happy) blue suede (shoes) boots. #Mudd hat. It’s chilly here and feels like fall. 🍁🍂🎃 Have a good evening, everyone!

#FROCTOBER | Day 26 🍁🍁 Only 5 more days remain of my month of fashion!! Today's #ootd is this ensemble--#whitehouseblackmarket cream-colored cable tunic; #anntaylor blouse; #jenniferlopez pants; #francosarto boots. Happy hump day! 🐫🐫🐫 — #FROCTOBER | Day 26 🍁🍁 Only 5 more days remain of my month of fashion!! Today’s #ootd is this ensemble –#whitehouseblackmarket cream-colored cable tunic; #anntaylor blouse; #jenniferlopez pants; #francosarto boots. Happy hump day! 🐫🐫🐫

#FROCKTOBER | Day 28 -- Three more days left! I love white pumpkins and this pink #Boden skirt in today's #ootd. Black and white leopard coat from #forever21; black knit turtleneck with shoulder buttons from #primrosestudio; #charlesdavidboots. Happy Halloween weekend, witches! XO 🎃🎃🎃🍁🍂🍁 — #FROCKTOBER | Day 28 — Three more days left! I love white pumpkins and this pink #Boden skirt in today’s #ootd. Black and white leopard coat from #forever21; black knit turtleneck with shoulder buttons from #primrosestudio; #charlesdavidboots. Happy Halloween weekend, witches! XO 🎃🎃🎃🍁🍂🍁

#FROCKTOBER | Day 29 Spending the day walking, shopping, and eating in #Baltimore -- stopping off in #federalhill in today's #ootd. #michaelkors jeans; #verawang top; #tahari boots. — #FROCKTOBER | Day 29 Spending the day walking, shopping, and eating in #Baltimore — stopping off in #federalhill in today’s #ootd. #michaelkors jeans; #verawang top; #tahari boots.

#FROCKTBER | Day 30 Happy Sunday! Heading out to run some shopping errands in this #ootd -- #hiche brown ruffle top from #anthropolige; straight dark jeans (so comfortable) from #whitehouseblackmarket; scored these brown suede tassel booties at #target for a steal after almost buying a similar pair for $150 online. Tomorrow's Halloween...are you brewing up something fun? 🎃🕸🍁 — #FROCKTOBER | Day 30 Happy Sunday! Heading out to run some shopping errands in this #ootd — #hiche brown ruffle top from #anthropolige; straight dark jeans (so comfortable) from #whitehouseblackmarket; scored these brown suede tassel booties at #target for a steal after almost buying a similar pair for $150 online. Tomorrow’s Halloween…are you brewing up something fun? 🎃🕸🍁

xx |

signature Stephanie Verni is the author of Baseball Girl, Beneath the Mimosa Tree, and the co-author of Event Planning: Communicating Theory and Practice.

What I Wore This Week | #FROCKTOBER Week 4

October 23, 2016On LifeLeave a Comment

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Some people my find this whole FROCKTOBER thing a little silly; after all, it is a bit materialistic and about clothing and what we wear; it’s not about saving the world or doing some good for others. However, that said, I do believe how we feel about ourselves reflects on the rest of the world and people in our lives. When we feel good about ourselves, it comes from the inside; the clothing is just a mere reflection of ourselves, our personalities, and our own personal taste. When we’re happy with ourselves, that happiness helps us in all aspects of our lives.

We all have different taste in clothing–and that’s why, luckily for us all–there are all different types of styles available to us. I classify myself as a romantic, classic dresser with a dash of trendiness and Boho thrown in for fun. I like clothes that make me feel like a lady: feminine and pretty. Others may prefer more preppy, classic clothing, while others may have a full-on Boho style, among many others. We see some trends we like, we wear some trends, and we leave some trends behind because we know they don’t work for us.

We’re meant to have fun with clothes, look professional in clothes, work in clothes, go out in clothes, exercise in clothes, and hang around the house in clothes. We have clothing that suits all our different settings — and the best part is, we get to choose those pieces that work especially for each of us.

Here’s what I wore this week:

screen-shot-2016-10-23-at-6-32-46-pm — SUNDAY | #FROCKTOBER Day 16 l #Sunday’s #ootd and a little over the halfway mark (thank goodness!) in this transitional fall look … #americanrag top from #macys; #anntaylorloft leggings; #charlesdavid boots; #bigbudda bag.

screen-shot-2016-10-23-at-6-32-21-pm — MONDAY | #FROCKTOBER Day 17 | It’s back to the classroom in this #ootd–navy blue dress with white piping from #boden; these navy shoes have quickly become one of my favorite pairs by #vincecamuto; bag by #merona. Hope today is a good start to the week for you!

TUESDAY | #FROCKTOBER Day 18 | Today's #ootd on this very warm #October day featured this red and black top by #daytripclothing; black ruffle skirt by #whitehouseblackmarket; ankle strap pointed toe heels by #samandlibby; bag from #kennethcole. — TUESDAY | #FROCKTOBER Day 18 | Today’s #ootd on this very warm #October day featured this red and black top by #daytripclothing; black ruffle skirt by #whitehouseblackmarket; ankle strap pointed toe heels by #samandlibby; bag from #kennethcole.

WEDNESDAY | #FROCKTOBER Day 19 | Today's #ootd ... classics with flair from #anthropologie. #moulinettesoeurs polka dot dress with lace trim; #cidra jacket; #apt9 shoes. — WEDNESDAY | #FROCKTOBER Day 19 | Today’s #ootd … classics with flair from #anthropologie. #moulinettesoeurs polka dot dress with lace trim; #cidra jacket; #apt9 shoes.

THURSDAY | #FROCTOBER Day 20 | Ready to say hello to our alums at tonight's Affinity Reunion in this #ootd. #anntaylor red skirt; #frenchconnection top; #ninewestboots. — THURSDAY | #FROCTOBER Day 20 | Ready to say hello to our alums at tonight’s Affinity Reunion in this #ootd. #anntaylor red skirt; #frenchconnection top; #ninewestboots.

FRIDAY | #FROCKTOBER | Day 21 #currentmood - All in black in this #ootd. #whitehouseblackmarket pants; #laurenconrad bow top and long sweater with lace detail. Fringe booties by #sodashoes. #kennethcole bag. — FRIDAY | #FROCKTOBER | Day 21 #currentmood – All in black in this #ootd. #whitehouseblackmarket pants; #laurenconrad bow top and long sweater with lace detail. Fringe booties by #sodashoes. #kennethcole bag.

xx |

signature Stephanie Verni is the author of Baseball Girl, Beneath the Mimosa Tree, and the co-author of Event Planning: Communicating Theory and Practice.

What I Wore This Week | #FROCKTOBER Week 3

October 16, 2016October 19, 2016On LifeLeave a Comment

FROCKTOBER is full steam ahead this week, with lots of variations and different brands. Also, I want to talk about NEUTRALS, as some people have questions, such as, “Can I wear brown and black together?” Yes, you can. They are two neutrals. Just as you can wear grey and black, or black and tan, or even brown and grey (which can look quite elegant, actually), so can you blend neutrals. Blue is a neutral (think about your blue jeans…you wear them with anything, right?); therefore, you can mix your neutrals. Don’t be afraid to do it. It can look quite lovely.

I’m a petite person, and as such, I stay away from big patterns, large stripes, and heaviness of clothing, especially on top or around the mid-section, which will only add more weight and bulk to my already short stature. I’m quite curvy, and so I must choose the right clothes to help balance my silhouette. Darker colors on the bottom typically help this, wearing the same color on top and bottom helps you appear taller, and too much bulk will just make you look bigger than you are.

Here are the looks from the week that were posted on my Instagram. See you next Sunday.

screen-shot-2016-10-16-at-7-23-12-pm — #FROCKTOBER Day 10 | Today’s #ootd is all about comfort as my husband and I strolled @ladewgardens during my fall semester break — #Target leggings with #jeannepierre leather trimmed grey sweater from #macys, perfect for the 60 degree weather and sunny skies; #marcfisher black suede tall boots with gold detail.

screen-shot-2016-10-16-at-7-23-02-pm — Got someone to take our photo during out outing to Ladew Topiary Gardens on Monday during my fall break from the university. It was lovely to do nothing but stroll and enjoy the spectacular weather.

fullsizerender-8 — #FROCKTOBER Day 11 | Wore this #ootd to my son’s District Championship golf match today (they qualified and are heading to States!)…#Laurenconrad jeans; red sweater from #anntaylorolft; plaid jacket from #Boden; #Bandolino boots; #danabuchman bag; #Mudd hat. So proud of Matt and his team! It’s a happy Tuesday!

screen-shot-2016-10-16-at-7-22-37-pm — #FROCKTOBER Day 12 | Today’s #ootd proves you can wear two neutrals, even when those neutrals are brown and black. Black straight leg pants by #jenniferlopez; cream colored blouse from #anntaylorloft; brown vest with fur trim from #anntaylor; black boots with gold zippers by #tahari. Photo taken in one of my favorite local shops, #homesteadgardens.

screen-shot-2016-10-16-at-7-22-25-pm — #FROCKTOBER Day 13 | My daughter thought the previous pic was too dark, so we’re trying this again with better lighting…when this month is over, I’m going back to writing novels. This modeling thing is not for me…😘. Back to work after fall break in today’s #ootd on campus: #verawangprincess dress; #mossimo black lace-up shoes and metallic bag.

screen-shot-2016-10-16-at-7-22-01-pm — #FROCKTOBER Day 14 | #Friday fun in this new #ootd, a lightweight, long-sleeved denim dress by #Inc from #macys and brown suede boots with tights by #ninewest … Looks like it’s going to be a beautiful weekend. Enjoy it, everyone!

screen-shot-2016-10-16-at-7-21-49-pm — #FROCKTOBER Day 15, Part 1 | #Saturday in a suit? Yes…just for the morning for @stevensonuniversity’s Open House for prospective students. This #ootd suiting is by #AnnTaylor in brown; #ninewest cream-colored suede shoes; lace camisole by #Bordeaux; #mossimo metallic bag. Changing into something more Saturday-like now…

screen-shot-2016-10-16-at-7-21-39-pm — #FROCKTOBER Day 15, Part 2 | Running out to do some errands in this casual #ootd — #starcity red top with ruffle; #whitehouseblackmarket black sweater and super straight legged jeans; #tahari boots; #maxxnewyork red leather bag.

screen-shot-2016-10-16-at-7-21-25-pm — #FROCKTOBER Day 16 l #Sunday’s #ootd and a little over the halfway mark (thank goodness!) in this transitional fall look … #americanrag top from #macys; #anntaylorloft leggings; #charlesdavid boots; #bigbudda bag.

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Just a little thing about hats…I love to wear them in the fall and winter. This one’s been around for a while, but it’s one of my favorites to throw on. I have this style in black, brown, and grey. Once again, these neutrals can go with just about anything.

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xx |

signature Stephanie Verni is the author of Baseball Girl, Beneath the Mimosa Tree, and the co-author of Event Planning: Communicating Theory and Practice.

FROCKTOBER Week 2 | What I Wore

October 9, 2016October 9, 2016On LifeLeave a Comment

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In celebration of #FROCTOBER, I’m doing a quick recap of what I wore this past week. I’ve been posting daily on my Instagram feed (stephverni), and it’s been fun. It makes me think, though, because it’s a lot of pressure to post an outfit you think is good enough to feature as a Frocktober favorite. I’m a petite, regular gal, and the correct proportions of my clothing matters; it’s one of the things I learned when I became a fashion consultant. We tend to want to wear all the latest trends whether they suit us or not, but if our body type/size/shape/height doesn’t work for that trend, we have to let it go. The key to good style—and finding your own brand of personal style—is wearing what works best on your body; you must know what fits well and makes you look your best, and it’s not always easy. I’d love to wear a lot of the big, loose fitting clothes, but it will make me look like I’m wearing a tent–they will overwhelm my small stature. Therefore, think about your proportions and always keep them in mind when buying clothes, especially when you buy clothing that you want to last a while. Honestly, though, it doesn’t matter if you buy something at Nordstrom or Target or a high-end boutique, if it’s the right color and proportion, it will probably look fabulous on you. (And you will see from my collection, I buy things from everywhere…for me, it’s all about balance and proportion).

And now, on to what I wore this week, starting with what I wore on Sunday…

Day 2 | #FROCKTOBER Sunday errands and grading at the library. Topshop top from #Nordstrom; good old fashioned #Levi’s jeans; #Kanna shoes from Spain; #Maxx red leather bag.

screen-shot-2016-10-08-at-10-44-41-pm — Day 3 of #FROCKTOBER features this #ootd for Monday on campus. Plum long sleeved blouse from #anntaylor; black pocket skirt from #anntaylorloft; shoes from our own #Annapolis, #Maryland native and designer #christiansiriano for #paylessshoes in wine; #ralphlauren bag.

screen-shot-2016-10-08-at-10-45-26-pm — Today’s #FROCKTOBER #ootd … Day 4 on campus … forcing myself to step away from my mostly black wardrobe and into some color. #moulinettesoeurs purple dress and #charlieandrobin sweater from #anthropologie; #vaneli grey suede button boots.

screen-shot-2016-10-07-at-10-01-05-pm — #FROCKTOBER continues with #whatiworetoday on Day 5 on campus with this #ootd. Blue dress from #bananarepublic; brown tweed blazer from #thelimited; brown suede, stacked heel boots from #ninewest; one of my go-to, all-time favorite necklaces is not expensive but comes from #target; bag by #davidjonesbags. @lisarinna inspired hair (love her).

screen-shot-2016-10-07-at-10-00-40-pm — #FROCKTOBER is rolling along on Day 6 with this #ootd — #whatiworetoday on campus? Straight legged pants from #whitehouseblackmarket; blue blouse by #xhilaration; black, fringe peep-toe booties by #sodashoes; necklace from #charmingcharlie; bag by #michaelkors. Bring on Friday and our semester fall break which begins tomorrow afternoon. Thursday smiles, all!!

screen-shot-2016-10-07-at-10-00-10-pm — Day 7 | From earlier today before I was under the weather comes today’s boho-inspired Friday #FROCKTOBER #ootd — Wore this #laurenconrad dress with grey #boden suede boots and a hat from #maddengirl. Happy Friday!

Day 8 | Saturday feels for #frocktober in this comfy #ootd ... #laurenconradcollection top with her jeans (great fit)! Wearing my #sodashoes booties on my feet; #maddengirl hat. Ready for an evening with family. Happy rainy Saturday! — Day 8 | Saturday feels for #FROCKTOBER in this comfy #ootd … #laurenconradcollection top with her jeans (great fit)! Wearing my #sodashoes booties on my feet; #maddengirl hat. Ready for an evening with family. Happy rainy Saturday!

See you next week!

xx |

signature Stephanie Verni is the author of Baseball Girl, Beneath the Mimosa Tree, and the co-author of Event Planning: Communicating Theory and Practice.

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Welcome to #Frocktober | What I Wore & Style Tips

October 1, 2016October 1, 2016On Life1 Comment

stc-dress-sketches

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frock [frok] noun

def.

1. a gown or dress worn by a girl or woman.

2. a loose outer garment worn by peasants and workers; smock.

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Today begins my version of Frocktober, whereby I will showcase what I wear for the next 31 days of October. I’m an average woman who is petite in stature and who also happens to love shopping for clothes, reading about fashion, and creating a personal style. In my former life as a fashion consultant, I helped other women try to find their style. We don’t have to be runway models to feel good about ourselves; women of all shapes and sizes are beautiful, and beauty truly comes from within and then is expressed on the outside. We are all capable of finding our own “brand” of style, and so much of it comes from what has shaped us and continues to shape us as people.

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I don’t have a fat wallet or shop at the finest of stores; I primarily buy things on sale, and I even hunt down goods at consignment stores (and recently scored two Nanette Lepore pieces in mint condition for a fraction of what the original retail price was). I’ll pick up things from Anthropologie to Boden to Ann Taylor, from Nordstrom and Macy*s, and from Target and Kohl’s to name a few. What really matters when finding your own personal style is finding pieces that work for you and your body type, while taking color into consideration.

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For the next month, I’ll share with you what I’ve worn during the week, where I purchased the items, and discuss tips I learned along the way as a fashion consultant. I enjoy helping others feel good about themselves and the choices they make with regard to clothing and accessories.

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As I am weeks away from publishing my third novel, I thought having Steph’s Scribe take a breather from writing articles this month (well, maybe just a few!), I would focus on fashion for #Frocktober.

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Let me know if you have any questions about what I post. I will do my best to answer anything you ask.

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Have a wonderful weekend…now…on to our October Feature.

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W H A T I W O R E

image3-8 — Wednesday, September 28 | This little black dress (LBD) is from Ann Taylor. It’s a staple in my closet. Everyone needs an LBD–that “go to” dress that can be worn dressed up or down. In this photo in front of our new building on campus, I accessorized with a black flower pin, Michael Kors watch, and Cole Hahn t-straps. Even though #Frocktober didn’t officially start until today, I started promoting the feature on Instagram on Wednesday.

image2-10 — Thursday, September 29 | This bright yellow skirt brightens up any rainy day! From Boden, it features big pockets on the front; the navy blue sweater top (yes, it’s navy, not black!) is from Banana Republic; boots are navy blue suede from Boden; and the funky yellow necklace is from Target. Personally, I wouldn’t wear a lot of yellow near my face. My skin tone has yellow to it, so it would make me look even more yellow (and older). However, wearing bright colors elsewhere allows me to wear jewel tones (which tend to look best against my skin) closer to my face. As we age, it’s important to keep color in mind. The pop of yellow with the necklace is just enough and doesn’t overwhelm the skin tone.

image1-12 — Friday, September 30 | Another rainy day gave me the blues. On Friday, I was going to be on campus all day, first teaching a three-hour class, and then attending a student event, so I decided to take the liberty of participating in Casual Friday. The blue top is from Nordstrom, the jeans are from White House Black Market (love the comfort of their jeans!), shoes are from Vince Camuto (just got them for my birthday), and the bag is from Ralph Lauren. A tip if you are on the short side like me: the same color on the top and bottom will keep a consistent line and make you appear taller (even with that little bit of white piping). Not breaking the line with color is a smart thing to do; however, it can be become boring always wearing the same color on top and bottom. We’ll talk about other strategies for that as we move through the month.

image1-13 — **Saturday, October 1 | IT’S FINALLY #FROCKTOBER!!!** Here we go, people. It’s the official start of #Frocktober, and for the next 31 days, I’ll attempt to show you what an average, suburban lady wears to work and on the weekends. Hope you enjoy… Today’s Saturday outfit is brought to you by the following: Blue/green velvet top by Dolan from Anthropologie; dark wash blue, straight legged blue jeans from White House Black Market; boots by Marc Fisher from DSW; bag purchased in St. Michaels by Spartina 449. At the time the photo was taken, there was a massive downpour, but we stayed dry underneath the short roof of these shops in Severna Park.

Have a good weekend, everyone, and thanks for stopping by Steph’s Scribe.

🙂

xx |

signature Stephanie Verni is the author of Baseball Girl, Beneath the Mimosa Tree, and the co-author of Event Planning: Communicating Theory and Practice.

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Make Accessories Matter

July 6, 2015July 6, 2015On Life1 Comment

STYLE

Shoes — My feet in these fringed stacked-heeled peep-toe boots by SODA.

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Usually when I go to the Outer Banks for vacation, I come home with one special item that I purchase at one of the boutique stores in Duck. This year, I came home with a fabulous pair of peep-toe stacked heeled boots with fringe. As soon as I saw them, I knew it they were going to be taking the 7-hour ride home with me. Like many of you, I tend to love shopping for shoes and accessories as opposed to clothes for one main reason: my shoe size rarely changes. I typically wear a size 6 or 6.5 shoe (which is why I tend to score at stores like DSW and its sales rack. Last year, I got a pair of grey, over-the-knee boots for $12 bucks on that rack…probably my most impressive purchase to date!)

Accessories are so much fun to incorporate into your wardrobe because of their versatility. You can style them with different outfits to add versatility and longevity and make an outfit go from ho-hum to unique and interesting with little effort. Pieces like scarves, hats, bags, jewelry, and belts have the ability to change the look of an outfit with ease. When shopping for accessories, keep these few things in mind:

Buy accessories that will work with many of your existing outfits.
Buy accessories in various tones and colors that can mix and match with a basic wardrobe.
Buy accessories that may be in style for more than one season.
Buy accessories that add drama or flair to your wardrobe, especially if you are like me and have a wardrobe that’s filled with black and white.
Buy accessories that can act as statement pieces.

I am sure you will find lots of different accessories that can help punch up your wardrobe. Accessories are meant to be fun—and you should enjoy having fun with them.

What’s your favorite accessory you own?

For now, my favorite piece? The boots.

Boots, SODA. Hat, Anthropologie. Necklace, Stella & Dot.