Chanel Coco Mademoiselle.  Diptyque Vetyverio.  Chanel No. 5 L’Eau.  Maison Margiela Replica Flower Market.  Byredo La Tulipe.

Miranda L. Sober Photography

Chanel Coco Mademoiselle

Available Here.

This is the fragrance I receive compliments on the most, so I was happy when I found it in this convenient travel spray. Twist the top and the atomizer appears. The travel spray comes filled with one 0.7 oz. vial of perfume and two additional refill vials. Plus, the travel bottle looks insanely chic when you pull it out of your tote or handbag to apply.

Coco Mademoiselle is my go-to fragrance when I want to feel sexy and feminine all day long. It’s a creamy-floral; one that doesn’t smell directly of flowers but is an indescribable blend of luxurious, sophisticated notes. And it’s incredibly long-lasting; if I spray this in my hair, I often catch a hint of it the next day. I wear this when I want to feel strong, powerful, and feminine; it’s no wonder the fragrance’s namesake is Coco Chanel.

Notes:  Bergamot, Orange Blossom, Mimosa, Jasmine, Turkish Rose, Ylang-Ylang, Tonka Bean, Patchouli, Vetiver, White Musks.

Diptyque Vetyverio

Available Here.

This woody-floral is a beautiful, unisex scent. The blend of fresh, woody vetiver with unexpected, exotic florals creates a fragrance that feels worldly, sexy, and intoxicating. Whenever I wear this, I picture a hidden, secret garden tucked away in wet, woody forest somewhere.

Notes:  Italian Mandarin, Floridian Grapefruit, Indonesian Nutmeg, Egyptian Geranium, Madagascan Ylang-Ylang, Turkish Rose, French Carrot Seed, Vetiver, Virginia Cedar, White Musk.

Chanel No. 5 L’Eau

Available Here.

The intense and powerful Chanel No. 5’s fresher, younger sister. Chanel No. 5 L’Eau is a clean, modern take on the original fragrance that took the world by storm. It’s crisp and cool with just a hint of sexy jasmine. Whenever I put this on, it makes me think of stepping out of a hot evening shower and into cool, white, cotton sheets. Odd description, I know… But I know you can imagine it!

Notes:  Lemon, Mandarin, Orange, Neroli, Aldehydes, Rose, Ylang-Ylang, Jasmine, Cedar, White Musk. 

Maison Margiela Replica Flower Market

Available Here.

The Replica fragrances are designed to invoke specific memories and moments in time. It’s no surprise this beautiful, crisp floral was created to smell like a Parisian flower market. Each time I spray this perfume, I think of fresh flowers surrounded by greenery, wet petals on the paths between the flower carts, and just-snapped green stems. Flower Market is a fresh-floral fragrance, perfect for spring and summer.

Notes:  Green Leaves, Freesia, Egyptian Jasmine, Jasmine Sambac, Tuberose, Rose de Mai, Peach, Cedar, Oakmoss.

Byredo La Tulipe

Available Here.

This scent is so pure; I recently described it for one of my friends, telling her it’s like smelling the pure essence of tulip. No unnecessary scents here – just crisp, delicate tulip and nothing else. But don’t underestimate its delicate nature for dullness. When I spritz this, I imagine stepping out into a dewy, early morning garden and cutting a basket full of fresh tulips. The fragrance is undeniably feminine and fresh.

Notes:  Freesia, Cyclamen, Rhubarb, Pink Tulip, Vetiver, Green Leaves.

Sunnies.  Top.  Pants.  Chanel Bag.  Heels.

Miranda L. Sober Photography

I’m sure it’s no secret by now; I tend to be a bit picky, especially when it comes to clothes and accessories. “You’re quite particular,” my husband always says to me with a knowing smile on his face. But why shouldn’t we be particular or picky when it comes to what we purchase?! There are so many brands out there; I don’t think it’s selfish to want the best quality.

And that’s where W by Worth comes in. After a few seasons working with their brand and featuring their products on my site, I’ve learned that I can expect only the best from them. Their beautiful pieces possess classic, timeless tailoring infused with trendier touches like cutouts or bold prints that keep their collections fresh and modern. I’ve found their clothing holds up to frequent wear, both dry cleaning and machine washing, and I never fail to wear one of their pieces without a compliment coming my way on the street. Theirs are the sort of clothes that make you feel beautiful and sexy when you wear them.

To shop from their brand, you can either visit WbyWorth.com or find your local W by Worth stylist here. I personally work with Leigh McMahon in Denver. You can take a peek at one of our personal styling sessions and get her contact information in this post. You can browse a trunk show with Leigh, bring in some of your favorite seasonal accessories to style around (my personal favorite option), or even schedule a time for Leigh to come to your home and help choose some pieces to fill in any gaps you have your closet.

In this look I’m wearing their new Trapeze Halter in Optic White Heat Red. The top is made from a soft cotton that’s breezy and has a delicate little cutout underneath a wrapped-neckline detail. I think it would look gorgeous paired with their white tweed jacket. I’m also wearing W by Worth’s Tech Luna Pant, literally the most flattering and comfortable pant I’ve ever worn. I love the length of this pant because they’re short enough to show off some great shoes, but not too short to wear to the office.

Fit Details:  One thing I love about W by Worth is the fact they use beautiful, high quality fabrics. Guess what? High quality fabrics hang beautifully on the body and make you look leaner; it’s a fact. Both the halter top and pants are incredibly flattering and comfortable to wear. My advice is to follow the W by Worth size guide and if you’re in between measurements, go one size down as their items tend to run a bit bigger.

1 – Gold Chandelier Earrings.  2 – Pearl Drop Earrings.  3 – Sparkly Stone Ring.  4 – Blush Pink Watch.  5 – Tan Tassel Bag.  6 – Pink Shearling Pillow.  7 – Toast Rack.  8 – Monogram Turkish Cotton Throw.  9 – Cat Eye Sunnies.  10 – Triple Stone Pink Ring.  11 – French Sweatshirt.  12 – Hello Sailor Tee.  13 – Pink Hunter Boots.  14 – Wow Pink-Lilac Clutch.  15 – Blue Chloé Bag.  16 – Pink Leather Crossbody Bag.  17 – Powder Blue-Grey Heels.  18 – Blush Pink Block Heels.  19 – Blue Espadrille Wedges.  20 – Wraparound Flat Sandal.  21 – Pink Espadrille Mules.  22 – Pom Pom Straw Bag.  23 – Stripe Midi Wrap Dress.  24 – Cream and Black Dress.  25 – Pink Eyelet Midi Dress.  26 – White Tie-Front Midi Dress.

Save up to 40% now through June 4th by shopping the Nordstrom Half Yearly Sale. Some of the categories on sale? Women, Men, Kids, Home, Beauty, and my personal favorite… Handbags and Accessories. I’ve gone through each and every page of the sale and have curated my top picks in the collage above.

Now is the perfect time to pick up that special gift for someone or treat yourself to something you’ve had your eye on. I’ve also included some lovely dresses for all your events coming up this summer. If you’re shopping the sale, I’d love to hear the items that made it into your cart!

Happy Weekend!

Sunnies.  Dress.  Necklace.  2017 Token Pendant.  Perfume.  Clutch.  Shoes.

After three graduations (not counting preschool – why do they do that anyway?) I’ve perfected the art of dressing for matriculation. Read below for my best tips on graduation dressing and why I chose each piece in the collage above.

• One, choose a dress that doesn’t have too much fabric to make you warm under those awful polyester robes but isn’t too short to give the front row a show when you walk across the stage. This dress is classic, tasteful, and perfect for both graduation and celebratory events after with friends and family.
• Two, apply a light and classic fragrance that won’t overwhelm your seatmates. Graduations are long, closely-packed affairs that tend to be a bit warm. This fragrance is a soft, feminine blend of rose, peony, and jasmine. It smells fresh, elegant, and has just a hint of subtle sexiness.
• Three, don’t forget to tuck your essentials into a clutch and hand it to  a friend or family member to hold for you until after the ceremony is over. I brought powder, oil-blotting sheets, lipstick, and my cell phone in mine. You don’t want to miss out on all those congratulatory texts and photo opportunities while you’re celebrating post-hat-toss! I love the sea blue color of this suede fringe clutch and its particularly fun detachable, swingy tassel.
• Four, incorporate some piece of meaningful jewelry. This gold-plated token and 18″ chain necklace make for a beautiful graduation gift. In Britain, the practice of giving a loved one an engraved coin goes back for over 400 years. For you Anglophiles, this particular token is the exact weight of a British pound coin. And although this one depicts ‘MMXVII’ (2017 in Roman numerals) instead of Queen Elizabeth, it makes for a memorable, meaningful graduation gift.
• Lastly, don’t make the same mistake I did and wear uncomfortable shoes! There’s nothing worse than your feet being in pain through an hours-long ceremony, photos afterward, and family functions or celebrations that can last long into the night. I never witnessed anyone tripping or falling across the stage at my own graduations, but I can imagine that would be awful. These flats are beautifully made by one of my favorite shoe designers. The color is stunning and they tie securely around the ankle; completely trip-proof!

Earrings.  Dress.  Clutch.  Heels.

Hairstyle, Lashes, Tan, Nails c/o Glamour Bar Denver (Mention My Blog for $50 Off Lash Application)

Miranda L. Sober Photography

This unique fabric reminded me of a cross between lace and netting, which made me think of fishnet, and then my Pisces drifted straight to mermaids. So… There you have it. This dress documents the day a mermaid and a peacock met and lived happily ever after.

Mermaids aside, this dress makes a statement. The beautifully structured netting ensures the ruffles cascading around the neck and chest stand at attention and everything from the neckline to the pockets are trimmed with the most beautiful canvas trim. The skirt is so full and perfect; it’s impossible to wear this dress and not feel feminine. It will be the Little White Dress you end up reaching for over and over again.

Fit Details:  Runs a bit small. Go up one size.

Earrings.  Watch.  Dress.  Makeup Palette.  Fragrance.  Clutch.  Heels.

Kate Spade Dress – Available Here.  Chanel Fine Jewelry Necklace.  Chanel Jumbo Classic Flap Bag – Used Available Here.  Similar Red Chanel Classic Bag.  Chanel Heels – Available in Neiman Marcus Stores.

Similar Dress – Lower Price Point.  Similar Dress – Plus Size.

Blowdry, Lashes, Tan, Nails c/o Glamour Bar Denver – Mention My Blog for $50 Off Lash Application

Miranda L. Sober Photography

Did you read my recent post (here) about not feeling my best lately? Even though I might not be at my best, I have to say, this beautiful silk cocktail dress makes me feel my best.

I recently wore this dress to judge the 2017 Colorado State University Student Fashion Show. I received so many compliments and I felt elegant the entire evening. There’s just something about this dress that is reminiscent of a bygone era; it reminds me of something Audrey Hepburn or Jackie Kennedy Onassis would have worn.

With beautiful high-quality fabric that gives a fit-and-flare silhouette, exquisitely tailored lines that flatter and shape a woman’s body, and fun features like a boatneck and pockets, this dress is one that will make many appearance at semi-formal functions this summer and will remain in my closet for years to come. Like I always say, invest in classics and you can never go wrong.

Styling Tips:  This boater neckline is made to showcase jewelry. I love the idea of pairing a long pendant necklace like this one or this one to draw attention to the narrow waist of this dress. Or make a statement with something vintage-inspired.

Fit Details:  This dress also comes in a cream color that would be perfect for all-white parties and bridal events alike. I found the dress to run just a bit bigger than “true to size”; if you’re in between size guide measurements, order the smaller size. I’m 5’7″ for reference and I didn’t need to hem the dress. It is quite literally the perfect midi dress.

1 – Ray Ban Sunglasses.  2 – Tory Burch Wallet on a Chain.  3 – Rose Coconut Oil Body Polish.  4 – Byredo “La Tulipe” Perfume.  5 – Ring: Size S/M and M/L.  6 – Bracelet.  7 – Dyson Hair Dryer.  8 – Tom Ford Makeup Palette.  9 – Olivia Burton Watch.  10 – Gigi New York Tote.  11 – Birkenstocks.

Ruthie Earrings in Green.  Stacked Rings.  Kate Spade Dress – currently sold out, but available in UK.  Bamboo Bag.  Heels in Same Style, New Color.

Hair, Lashes, Tan, Nails c/o Glamour Bar Denver (Mention My Blog for $50 Off Lash Application)

Miranda L. Sober Photography

I knew something was wrong when I spent nearly the entire month of February sick – with colds, with fevers, with the flu. It was like my body realized I needed a break before I did. At this point I should add that I’m the worst person at being sick; I’m absolutely miserable any time I can’t get out and about and check things off my to-do list. So nearly three weeks of feeling like a waste of space (and as a result, also being the grouchiest woman in the world) caused me to take a long, hard look at what I was doing wrong in order to avoid feeling so consistently exhausted again in the near future.

It didn’t take a harsh examination to discover the culprit. Our house was like a giant reminder of all the things stacked onto our plates and stuffed into our overflowing schedules. Our laundry hampers were full, there were stacks of mail and PR deliveries covering most of our kitchen island, invitations and save-the-dates hanging off our bulletin board, and post-it’s piled on top of highlighted appointments in my datebook… And those were just the physical clues of the chaos. A little chaos sometimes happens in life, so I kept telling myself I just needed to plan and manage time better. Can you relate? It seems we’re always convincing ourselves we need the latest planning app or new schedule that will change everything and make us into efficient little robots. But I was looking at it all wrong.

Continued below.

Ruthie Earrings in Green.  Stacked Rings.  Kate Spade Dress – currently sold out, but available in UK.  Bamboo Bag.  Heels in Same Style, New Color.

Blowdry, Lashes, Tan, Nails c/o Glamour Bar Denver (Mention My Blog for $50 Off Lash Application)

Miranda L. Sober Photography

The answer won’t be the same for everyone; we all need different things to feel sane in our lives and we all handle stress in different ways. But for me, that was the entire problem… I kept examining how I could better manage chaos instead of asking myself why the chaos existed in the first place. And then I read a little article by Joanna Gaines that changed everything.

Joanna’s article was in a mini version of her Magnolia Journal tucked into my recent Better Homes & Gardens magazine. In it, she discussed the beauty of simplicity and how she has come to recognize she can’t have clutter or chaos in her home or she begins to feel unhappy. She mentioned that a big part of keeping a happy, healthy home for her revolves around making judgments as to whether a particular item or task will make her happy or stressed before it enters their home or their schedule. (This part reminded me of the decluttering book everyone is reading – perhaps I need to pick it up.) If something will become stressful mental or physical clutter, it doesn’t enter Joanna’s space; she keeps it sacred. As I read, I connected with her words and recognized myself in what she was describing. I had finally discovered my problem.

Like so many women I know, I want to say ‘yes’ to as much as I possibly can. Whether it’s something for my website, social events, favors for friends, travel, or work events; I say ‘yes’ to everything and as a result, I create my own chaos. Meanwhile, the things that really matter… My health, peace of mind, and our home often get sacrificed to make time and space for everything else. And sometimes that has to happen. But when it doesn’t? Joanna’s point was that we have to take a stand for ourselves against the everyday chaos that threatens to take over our lives and our sanity.

I looked at it this way: we will each be lucky to have one hundred years on this planet. How do you want to spend them? How do I want to spend them? Certainly not in the car, racing to every event, and causing myself to be drained and exhausted 24/7. I want to give of myself but not to the point where I sacrifice my health and wellbeing. I’ve recognized I need a bit more time to organize my surroundings in order to feel at peace. And I want to feel fulfilled and make a little time each week for something I simply want to do; reading a good book, doing a facial mask, or taking my dogs on a walk. In the past few months, I’ve come to realize it’s time to spring clean my own life.

I know so many of you are out there feeling the same way; stressed, exhausted, burned out, and not feeling like your best self. I urge you to take a peek at your own life; where is the negativity coming from? And what steps can you take to reduce or mitigate it? I started last week by taking two full days off to organize the main floor of our home since physical chaos has such a negative effect on me. I tackled one section at a time, but finally I felt this weight lift off my shoulders as our kitchen counter was (for the first time in months) empty and spotless and piles of invites and reminders were thrown out. The clutter had been taking up both mental and physical space while I was rushing to events and coming back home to work on my site until 2 AM, thinking I was completing what really mattered. Two days of easy work made me feel relieved and clear-minded… That feeling alone was worth two weeks or even two months of organization!

I have also practiced saying ‘no’ more often; to fruitless emails, to unnecessary spends of my energy, and to social events that will consume my schedule. It’s not easy and I realize I will have to check in with myself in the future to stay on track, but I’m already feeling so much better I can’t help but think I’m on the right track. Next up? Establishing a consistent plan for healthy eating and a regular exercise schedule.

All this to remind you… Please take care of yourselves and focus on what really matters to you. Life is too short to carry the burden of unnecessary chaos, my darlings! Let’s get to spring cleaning.

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