A Touch of Spring
If you're anything like me, you've reached that point where you totally hate every article of clothing hanging in your closet. Each morning I experience severe outfit anxiety as I'm greeted by drab tops and dark winter skirts. My entire wardrobe is in total conflict with the bright spring florals that are dancing through my head thanks to this month's wonderfully tempting magazines. The short of it, I'm ready for a change. While I'll be the first to admit that it's way too soon (even for the fashionable free spirits) to debut the full skirts and frilly dresses that await us just around the quarter, I must also say that I just can't take one more day clothed in black wool.

As such, I've decided to beat the winter wardrobe blacks by adding a touch of spring to my outfits. With cold weather still on the horizon (for at least another 6 weeks), we can't justify a full-on spring ensemble, but we can take full advantage of spring accessories. And so, I offer you four ways to mix in a touch of spring:

1. Break up plain black on black office attire with a bright geometric printed scarf. I plan on sporting one of Pucci's retro yet modern prints. If you can't afford the silk version, try the cotton one. $40 - $60.

2.Trade your velvet blazer for a lighter weight cardigan or V-neck. The boyfriend sweater/prepster V-neck has been shown all over the runways and makes for an easy fix with your dark denims and tweedy skirts. Consider one in a neutral or pastel shade - as both are a hits for spring.

3. Slip into a pair of brightly colored shoes. From pumps to sneaks, colorful feet are all the rage for spring. For these last few months of winter, choose a shoe in a bold color. Picture yourself in black slacks, a white shirt and va-va-voom pink heels. Sassy, I say.

4. The easiest and quickest way to put some spring into your look is with your make-up. I spent an hour with a make-up artist from Smashbox, one of my fave lines, and voila! I was the picture of spring. If you're shopping solo, pick up some new eyeshadow shades in oranges, taupes and pinks. Also remember when it comes to lips, the glossier the better.

That should hold you for six weeks or so. And then... sweet Spring will be here and we can all go cuckoo for those girly prints and frilly dresses. Email me if you have any questions. Otherwise, I'll be back in touch next month.

xoxo,

Shop Girl

she she me Sponsor: Bailey's Fine Jewelry
Just about everyone knows that diamonds (and jewelry in general) are a girl's best friend and that there's know time like Valentine's day to shower the one you love. To help make sure that all she she girls get exactly what their hearts desire, Bailey's Fine Jewelry is having a week long sale. Starting Friday, Feb. 6 - Feb. 14, they are offering 20-25% off of their selection of beautiful jewelry (David Yurman, Mikimoto, John Hardy excluded). Diamonds, however, are included! In addition, they are offering 10% off of select gift items (some exclusions apply). Their unique gift department boasts everything from feminine handbags to darling home accessories.

And just to make sure your significant others get a significant hint you can stop by any of theirstores and fill out a she she girl wish list. Just write down anything that you have your eye on and they will give your beau a ring. It's a Valentine's Day registry!. I've already filled mine out and have discreetly left it on the coffee table.

Be sure to bring in this ad to receive the she she discount. Bailey's Fine Jewelry has several locations throughout North Carolina. Their hours are 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. Monday thru Sat. (919).829.7337.

Happy Valentine's Day.