My Mint Chocolate Chip Fantasy

I’m a fat kid at heart, and when I was walking around Festivity looking for this week’s blog inspiration it hit me -- mint chocolate chip. All of the dresses I gravitated toward were either green or black. I have to admit that once I had gathered my favorite frocks my co-worker, Cassandra, pointed out my colors of choice. Thanks, Cass! All of the dresses I have chosen are more formal, but they are fabulous dresses.

Mint Swirl:



5876 Arc and Co Mint Dress $84
4453 Red Ruthie Necklace $48
2392 Turquoise Flower Ring $20

This is one of my favorite dresses at Festivity. In fact, I bought it to wear for my birthday. The color combination is fabulous! This dress is wispy and ultra femme. The red necklace picks up on the red at the bottom, which is utterly eye-catching. And, the flower cocktail ring is perfect for a girl who loves to accessorize.


Black with Envy:



10001 Arc and Co Black Flower Dress $112
3693 Town and Reese Green Earrings $30
862 Gold Bangles $20


The moment I saw this dress it made me think of Sex and the City meets Audrey Hepburn. This dress is classic with a touch of edginess (it has an exposed zipper in the back). This would be a great dress for numerous events. Black is a blank canvas when it comes to accessorizing, so I went with these fabulous green chandelier earrings. I chose gold bangles since the exposed zipper is gold.


Mint White:



6690 Arc and Co Green and White Dress $98
3997 Black and Gold Earring $ 30
2392 White Cluster Ring $20

This one shouldered dress is a great summer dress. It boasts both a formal and casual appeal. When I look at a dress, I tend to play out an entire fantasy of what I would be doing when I wear it. I could imagine myself wearing this to a derby or out for cocktails with the ladies. I love rings and this cluster ring is one of my Festivity faves, plus, it matches perfectly. The black earrings are a great staple and complement the mint theme of this ensemble.

A Hint of Mint:



6687 Arc and Co Black and White Dress $78
9217 Rhyne Becton Green Drop Earring $30
862 Mint Bracelet $20

You can’t really go wrong with a black and white dress, it’s timeless. This is a great day-to-night dress. You can wear it with flats during the day and spruce it up with accessories and heels at night, maybe even a blazer if it’s cool. I chose these simple mint accessories to liven up the dress for a night look.


I hope you have enjoyed this style guide dedicated to one of my favorite ice cream flavors. Have a great summer and come visit us at the Virginia Highlands. You can pick up some mint chocolate chip gelato from Paolo’s while browsing through our wonderful boutique.

“Fashion is not something that exists in dresses only. Fashion is in the sky, in the street, fashion has to do with ideas, the way we live, what is happening.”
Coco Chanel


Signing out,

Your Festivity Style Guide xoxo

The 4th of July

The 4TH of July is one of my favorite holidays, mostly because it’s 13 days before my birthday. To me the 4th of July is epitome of summer, when friends and family gather together for a day of fun and festivities. I love spending the day at the beach or by the pool, then feasting on crab legs or hot dogs and ending the night with fireworks. I haven’t yet experienced the 4th of July in Atlanta, but I’m looking forward to it. And, it is only appropriate to celebrate in red, white, or blue; so I’ve put together a couple outfits for the day.

Romping Around:



8090 Love Posh Romper $62.00
3066 Rhyne Becton Gold Hoop Earrings $30.00
9527 Navy Clutch $34.00

This outfit is one of my favorites; I would definitely want to wear this while watching fireworks! The silk feel of the romper makes it dressy, but it will keep you cool on a warm summer night. Since the romper is the main focus of this outfit, I went for simple gold earrings. The blue clutch is a perfect addition to this patriotic ensemble.

Blue, white, and stripes:



9437 Royal Blue Dress $54.00
2326 Rhyne Becton White Drop Earrings $30.00
6529 Beige Clutch $32.00

Summer is the best time of year to sport the “nautical look,” since boating and sailing are in full force. This dress is great for the fourth because it incorporates blue and white and would go great with a red sandal or wedge. I chose basic accessories to balance out the stripes, since horizontal stripes tend to make a person appear curvier. For more tips on wearing stripes visit: http://womensfashion.suite101.com/article.cfm/womens_fashion_tips_how_to_wear_stripes

Take it to the Maxi:




9524 Triumph Maxi Dress $56.00
8435 CVD Rock Crystal Earrings $58.00
861 Colored Bangles $30.00

Maxi dresses (long dresses) have become a summer staple, which I’m happy about. If you haven’t embraced the maxi trend I highly recommend it - even if you’re short (like me). Maxi dresses can show off the great curves of a woman while also hiding trouble areas. This blue maxi is perfect for the 4th; I’ve paired it with red, white, and blue bangles to add a subtle hint of patriotism and went with simple earrings to balance the colors.

Budding Fashions:




9576 Audrey Cream and Flower Dress $58.00
2392 Red Arizona Ring $20.00
1529 Red Hoop Earrings $20.00

Floral prints have been huge this spring and summer. I’ve seen dresses that make me think of the Golden Girls and others that make me think of a Hawaiian Luau. This dress has a great balance to it and is something I could see myself wearing again next year. Plus it’s red, white, and blue and a perfectly chic frock for the 4th. In tribute to our day of Independence, I’ve accessorized with red jewelry.
I hope my 4th of July style guide has inspired you for this upcoming holiday! Have a wonderful 4th and a great summer. Stay tuned for my next style guide!

"We are shaped and fashioned by what we love." Johann Wolfgang von Goethe


Signing Out,

Your Festivity Style Guide xoxo

Date Night!!!!!

Summer flings, Braves games, a picnic in the park; these are a few of the things I think of when it comes to summer love in Atlanta. Since we have been getting in so many cute items at Festivity, I decided to dedicate this week's blog to "Date Night." Who doesn't love date night? If you are going on a blind date it can be a little nerve wrecking. But, with the perfect outfit you can conquer anything. So if you have a date coming up soon, I'm here to help.

Casual dining at Piedmont Park:

9209 Everly Navy Stripe Dress $58

7761 Straw Hat $24

4554 Jute Wine Tote $16

A picninc at Piedmont park, of course when it’s not blazing hot outside, can be a fun way to spend some time with your hunny. If you are on a tight budget or you love cheesy dates –like me- a picnic is a no-brainer. It’s important to keep the weather in mind because you want to stay cool and be protected from the sun. I have chosen this light-weight cotton stripe dress because it is easy to wear and breathable. This floppy straw hat makes a great fashion statement, but is also a great way to shield your eyes and face from the sun. And the icing on this cake is the purse. Not only is it not really a purse, it’s a wine bottle holder (you would’ve never known if I didn’t tell you).

Semi-casual dining at Apres Diem:

6683 Arc and Co. Green Ruffle Top $68

6391 Anoname Asphalt Skinny Jean $110

9115 White Quilt Purse $42

861 Cram Stretch Bracelet $30

My ideal dinner and movie date would be at the Midtown Art Cinema with dinner and drinks at Apres Diem. I think a cute top and jeans are a great standard for a movie date. Sometimes it’s cold in the theatre and you don’t want to worry about flashing anyone when you put your feet up, so jeans are ideal. I have paired these skinny jeans with this super summery top. I accessorized with a basic white purse and bracelet because I wanted the print top to be the focus of the ensemble. This outfit is practical and chic!

Semi-formal Dining at Atmosphere:

9434 Ya White and Coral Dress $58

3749 Towne and Reese Coral Earrings $28

3161 White Clutch $36

For a great meal and an opportunity to throw on a dress, I love going to Atmosphere. If you love escargot, their's is great! For a semi-formal date, I have chosen this oh-so-amazing one shouldered coral dress. This dress has a lot going on, which I love. The white silk top + the coral skirt + exposed zipper on the back = one hot dress. This dress would go perfect with a summer tan and a dirty martini. I chose these simple coral earrings, even though they aren’t the exact same color, because they add playfulness to the top of ensemble. This simple white clutch is a great piece to have in your wardrobe and it matches the dress. You'll definitely turn heads in this frock!

Formal Dining at Sun Dial:

9178 Esley Black Ruffle Dress $82

8435 CVD Rock Crystal Earrings $58

6533 Pink Metallic Clutch $32

For a great view of the city and a romantic evening, you must visit Sun Dial. Even if you just go for dessert, Sun Dial is a special place, worthy of a special dress. This beautiful black ruffle dress is perfect. It is a great fit and black is a sexy color; it’s a win-win situation. Like I’ve said before a L.B.D. is classic! I’ve paired this dress with a simple rock crystal earring, simple but elegant. And for a little spunk and color, this pink metallic clutch. Colored accessories are another option with this dress.

I hope you have been inspired for your next date! And even if your date turns out to be a bust, revel in the fact that you looked amazing! Embrace Atlanta's many great opportunites for a fun date this summer, I know I will.

"We live not according to reason, but according to fashion." Seneca (Roman Philosopher)

Signing out,

Your Festivity Style Guide xoxo

Ladies' Night!

My dearest readers, I apologize for not getting around to posting my Mothers’ Day Style Guide, but the store was busy and I didn’t have a chance to get around to blogging. But fear not, this week’s guide is dedicated to one of my favorite traditions -- ladies’ night. Usually I’ll do drinks and dinner, but occasionally I’ll hit the dance floor. My friends will probably disagree but at least I’m not sitting on my couch watching Mad Men (fashion heaven!) My inspirations for this week’s outfits are none other than my favorite ladies, my Festivity coworkers: Danielle, Emily, and Cassandra. Oh, and me.


Danielle:



4838 Double Zero Multi Tunic $46
6394 Anoname Paris Skinny Jean $110
5720 Flower Wristlet $5720
1529 Black Drop Earring $20


Danielle is our fearless store manager and resident horoscope expert. D. can often be found wearing skinny jeans, a piece of vintage jewelry, and a stylish top. This look was inspired by D.’s practical, day-to night style. You can’t go wrong pairing a “cute top” and jeans, its classic. I’m absolutely in love with this print top, it’s daring, plus, I have a dress in the same print. I chose white skinny jeans to go with this top because they tend to look more formal than blue denim, and because they scream summer.

- Choose a print or textured top for a more formal look
- A chic top is an easy way to incorporate a trend without breaking the bank
- Go for simple accessories when wearing prints



Emily:






7439 C. Luce Peach Strapless Dress $76
1557 CVD Vermeil Drops $138
7736 Brown Clutch $34

Emily is our website manager and our ladies’ night instigator. Em is the queen of basics; her daily wardrobe consists of a simple dress and fabulous earrings. Her style is practical and feminine. This basic yet chic look is inspired by Em. This peach strapless is a classic style dress but is fun and eye catching. The gold CVD earrings compliment this dress beautifully and the clutch adds a little dimension to the ensemble.

- Wearing classic styles in a fun color is a great way to spice up your wardrobe
- It’s ladies night, so being girly and flirty is a must
- Choose bold accessories, it adds a little character



Cassandra:





7444 C. Luce Fuchsia Zipper Dress$ 80
1529 Black Chip Earrings $20
7698 Gold Clutch $21


Cassandra is our resident princess and nutrition expert at Festivity. Cass has an amazing body; she’s petite and goes to the gym daily-I don’t. I love when she wears form fitting dresses plus she’s the one person I know that could wear Michelle Pfeiffer’s’ cat woman costume, that’s pretty amazing in my book. Cass usually wears dresses that range from body hugging, to 50’s house wife style dresses. However, for ladies’ night this hot pink zipper dress is totally a “Cassandra” dress - bold and daring. I chose black and gold earrings to compliment the hot pink. The gold clutch adds a little shimmer, which is fun for a night out with the ladies.


- Dress for your body and comfort- I complain all day if I’m uncomfortable
- With a dress this daring, go for simple accessories (unless you are going for a show-stopping appearance)
- Zippers are a trend this spring, embrace them with open arms


Me:



4996 Ventti Black and White Dress $54
4295 Rhyne Becton Green Hoops $30
6269 Fruit Salad Clutch $32


I am the resident blogger and junk food connoisseur. On a typical day, no matter what time of year, you will find me in a dress. Dresses are so easy to wear and it doesn’t take a huge effort to pull a look together. I’m modest, so I can’t really go into great lengths about me- but I will say I’m pretty awesome! Any who, I love this simple black and white floral dress. I love dresses with prints, I’m drawn to them. This dress is frilly and girly; it’s everything I look for in a dress. Plus I can dress it up and down, so extra points for this frock. I love accessorizing; it’s all I seem to talk about in this blog, so I chose lime green earrings and a green clutch to jazz up this dress.

- Add flair to your look with colorful accessories
- When wearing white make sure your dress isn’t see-through (wear a slip if it is)
- Embrace your style, it reflects you and makes for a great blog article

You may not be an Emily, Danielle, or Cassandra but have fun when you’re getting ready for a night out with the girls. Stay tuned for my next Style Guide on Summer Staples.

“Life should never be dull with all the amazing shoes, purses, and cocktails a lady has to choose from.” KK Hamer


Signing Out,
Your Festivity Style Guide xoxo

Rehearsal Dinner Night!

Pollen, patio seating, and strolls in the park all make me think of spring. And now that spring is here, wedding season has kicked into full gear. On a daily basis I help customers find the perfect shower, wedding, or rehearsal dinner dress. Several of my fellow co-workers have either recently been married or engaged and they are constantly on the hunt for dresses for all of their wedding events. You may not always be in charge of the formality of an event, so i decided to put together a style guide to help you through this year's wedding season.

Formal:






5919 Ark and Co. White Strapless Dress $82
3061 Rhyne Becton White Dangle Earring $40
860 White Grecian Cuff $35

Nothing screams bride-to-be more than a white dress. And what bride doesn't want to stand out at a party thrown in her honor? This dress reminds me of something Charlotte York on Sex and the City would wear. The gathering at the waist creates a beautiful slimming silhouette. Adding a simple pair of earrings and bracelet make this look effortlessly chic!


- Adding colorful accessories is another great option
-The gathering and draping of this dress hide belly bulge
- Add a blazer or wrap to keep warm


Semi-Formal:







Poppy Garden Green Shift Dress $48
99 Black and Gold Disk Necklace $45
1529 Bali Gold Chandelier Earrings $20
7148 Caviar Rose Handbag $48


When helping a bride find a rehearsal dinner dress, the most common requirement is "standing out." You will have no trouble "standing out" in this green shift dress, the color is absolutely eye catching. Stray away from black and make a colorful dress your LBD. I chose this fabulous statement necklace because it creates a more formal look. If you want to go for a casual look, I recommend a pair of earrings, like the ones featured.

- Choose a bold color that compliments your skin tone
- Add subtle details or color with your accessories
- This dress can either be dressed up or down, multi-fuctional is a plus





Casual:








3931 Pura Vida Blue Embroidered Dress $78
1529 Turquoise Drop Earrings $20
97 Gold Layered Chain Necklace $35
6274 Pierre Dumas Tad Espidrille $32

Something old, something new, something borrowed, something BLUE! I absolutely love this blue embroidered dress for a casual rehearsal dinner. Blue is a flattering color on a lot of women and this dress is so sweet: perfect for a beach wedding. Even if a bridal event is casual, a bride should stand out. Choosing a bold color is ideal.

- Choose a dress that you feel good in and love
- Use fun accessories to add a little pizazz to a casual event dress
- Brides can always be dressier than the required attire

Semi-Casual:

6060 Judith March Ivory Crinkle Dress $88

99 Layered Gold and Pearl Necklace $35

9012 CVD Gold Wrap Hoops $88

6276 Pierre Dumas Gold Heel $32

This beautiful ivory dress is perfect for a semi-casual dinner. The details of this dress are romantic, soft, and feminine, which are all adjectives fitting of a bride-to-be (in my opinion of course). Adding simple accessories and a pair of heels gives this dress a formal feel, but the look is still appropriate for a semi- casual event.

- Choose appropriate fabrics to compliment an event

- Being comfortable is key

- You don't have to break the bank for a great dress, save that for the big day :)

I hope this style guide has prepared you for this year's wedding season. Please feel free to post any comments or questions you have. Stay tuned for my next style guide on "Mother's Day Style and Gifts."

"A girl should be two things: classy and fabulous.” Coco Chanel

Signing Out,

Your Festivity Style Guide xoxo

Prom 2010!

Ok, the last time I went to prom was in 2003, but it’s one of those high school memories that are unforgettable. Disco lights, bad music, and oversized corsages are universal prom traditions that even the most skeptical person can appreciate. Even if you didn’t attend your prom, you still probably remember the hype in the air. Prom is a magical time, and has turned into a rite of passage for all high school students. In order to assist in this monumental event, I have come up with a Festivity Prom style guide.

This year at Festivity we are celebrating Prom season by hosting two pre-prom parties, where our prom-goers will get a chance to shop, feel pampered and eat a few cupcakes, too. Our first event is on Thursday March 18th from 5pm-8pm at Peachtree Battle, and on Friday March 26th, we will host our second event from 4pm-8pm at the Forum. Things to look forward at these events:
- A chance to win a $200 Festivity gift card
- Makeup tips and giveaways from Woo Cosmetics (March 18th only)
- Hot tracks from Dj Mister E
- Sweet treats from Little Cakes
- Rhyne Becton trunk show
- Informal modeling of Festivity prom dresses



The Girly-Girl!

2727 Minuet Black and White Fringe Dress $86
1529 Chandelier Earrings $20
7147 Black Peony Clutch $48

This dress is ultra sweet, and feminine. It reminds me of a modern day southern-belle dress. I love the black fringe and pink ribbon, it gives the dress beautiful detail. If you’re a girly-girl this dress is perfect for you! Pair it with a black pump or if you’re feeling daring wear a pink heel.

- Use fashion tape to secure strapless dresses, you don’t want to pull a Janet Jackson
- Less is more when accessorizing a detailed dress
- A bold or smoky eye is complimentary to this sweet dress


The Diva!

2549 Daisy Blue Ruffle Dress $82
1529 Crystal Cluster Earring $20
7212 Sterling Rose Clutch $48

This dress is absolutely eye-catching! You will definitely be the center of attention in this electric blue, one-shoulder, ruffle dress. If you like to stand out, this dress is ideal. If you are Project Runway fan, it is similar to the dress Anthony designs for the Marie Claire cover.

- Prom is a time to be bold and daring with fashion.
- With such bold details, keep makeup and jewelry simple
- Bracelets, earrings, and cocktail rings are good accessories for one shoulder dresses

The Rocker!

9291 Minuet Purple Dress $82
1672 Bow belt $22
1529 Black and Gem Earrings $20
7309 Large Checker Clutch $42

If you’re style is more edgy, this amazing iridescent purple dress is for you. You can accessorize this dress in so many different ways. But for an edgy look, I have added a rhinestone studded bow belt and a studded bib necklace to rock glam this dress up.

- Tie your look together by using coordinating colors in your accessories
- It’s ok to be bold with your makeup and accessories if that’s the look you’re going for. Maybe an iridescent purple or green eye shadow and dark liner.
- Sometimes strapless dress can flatten a chest, add silicone breast enhancers to fill out your dress, like this one by Hollywood. http://www.festivityonline.com/Prod-27-1-429-37/Hollywood_Extras.htm




The Romantic!

3571 Minuet Shimmer Dress $98
1529 Chandelier Crystal Earrings $20
97 Crystal Necklace $35
7217 Slate Flower Clutch $24

The delicate material, iridescent sheen, and flowy draping of this dress make me think of a modern day Cinderella. Prom night should feel like a fairy tale, so dress for the occasion in this romantic frock. Since I’m going for a romantic look, I’ve chosen delicate, crystal accessories. For shoes, go with a strappy silver or jeweled heel.

- Crystals and gemstones add instant glamour to a look, perfect for prom
- Make sure to create congruency between your dress and accessories

I hope you will join us for our 2010 Prom event! It’s a great opportunity to mix and mingle and even win a prize. Embrace the opportunity to get dolled up and have fun! If you have any questions or comments please feel free to make a post.

“Just around the corner in every woman's mind - is a lovely dress, a wonderful suit, or entire costume which will make an enchanting new creature of her.” ~Wilhela Cushman

Signing Out,
Your Festivity Style Guide xoxo

Spring Must Haves

If you were out and about this weekend, I hope you enjoyed the spring weather, I did. Spring weather, especially here in Georgia, is a harmonious balance of cool and warm. I have to admit I get really annoyed when the weather isn’t consistent. For example, when I was getting dressed this morning I heard that there might me a winter mix of weather tomorrow. I’m sorry, but after this beautiful weekend, I really just want to see sun and wear a sun dress. I’m ready for spring! I love the colors, the atmosphere, and the all around upbeat vibes that come with spring! According to our office calendar spring officially begins March 20. I know it’s difficult to want to throw on a sun dress and a pair of espadrilles, but take a break from reality and dream of spring. And to prepare for this glorious season, I have put together some of my favorite spring trends for you to lust after.


Floral and Mixed Prints:



2821 MaiTai Garden Dress $58
3174 Mustard Braid Belt $18

When I think spring, I think about full, blooming gardens. Garden replications have been seen for ages in art, interior design, and architecture. Heck, there are even full T.V. shows dedicated to mastering that perfect bloom. And no matter how long floral prints have been around, they never get dull. Why, you ask? Look at all of the fantastic colors! They are so vibrant and exciting! Just looking at this floral dress makes me happy, and I hope it does you too!
• A fun easy way to wear a print and color
• Accessorize with basic colors, so you don’t look like a mosaic
• Great for garden parties, wedding and baby showers, and first dates
• Break up prints with accessories like a belt, a monotone colored jacket, or a necklace



2668 Lulumari Mixed Floral Dress $72

Mixing prints can be complicated, messy, and can land you on the worse dressed list. However, when done tastefully mixed prints can look fresh and trendy. Mixing prints is like baking that perfect oatmeal raisin cookie, it is important to mix in just the right amount of ingredients. In this case, it is not the amount of raisins and oatmeal that count, but the perfect mix of prints and patterns. Just add a teaspoon of stripes and a cup of polka dots.
• An easy way to blend styles
• Find pieces, like this floral dress, that are already mixed and matched
• Use trial and error and look at magazines for inspiration
• Balance is key


Rompers:




2660 Lani Black Romper $48




2765 Flying Tomato Searsucker Romper $62

Rompers became popular in the 1950’s and are making a strong comeback this spring. If you’ve ever seen the movie, “The Notebook,” Rachel McAdams’ character sports several feminine and adorable rompers. Rompers are tricky because you don’t want to look like a toddler or like you’re wearing pajamas. But thanks to current designers there are many fashionable rompers to choose from.
• Ideal as casual and comfortable spring wear
• A fun alternative to shorts and a top
• Easy to dress up or down with accessories


Nautical:



2875 Ventti Nautical Stripe Dress $56
6235 Red Braid Belt $18
3132 Wicker Beach Purse $42


Ahoy Mateys! On a recent shopping trip, I saw nautical themed merchandise everywhere. I even purchased a sweater with a sailboat on it. I know wearing nautical/sailor themed items can be overwhelming and can invoke the 80’s; but in the right quantities can be fun to wear.
• Look for nautical themed jewelry to jazz up an outfit
• Don’t go overboard (no pun intended) with nautical clothes, you don’t want to look like a ship hand
• Find a basic, simple piece, like this dress, that is easy to wear and accessorize



Blue:



8334 Aryeh Blue Tribal Dress $56
3151 Navy Clutch $36
6737 Rhyne Becton Apatite Coin Earrings $38


Blue skies, blue water, blue accessories; blue is the “it” color this spring. According to Paula Darnell, designers are infusing all sorts of blue shades into both clothing and accessories this spring and summer.
• Alternative to black
• Navy blues are slimming
• Everyone can wear a shade of blue


If you’re interested or don’t know what color palette is good for you, I have included a link for you to find out:

http://trepanrr.tripod.com/defining_your_season.htm

I hope this fashion guide has awoken you from hibernation, and inspired you to try some of these spring trends. Personally, I can’t wait to wear my new nautical sailboat sweater with a pair of washed out jeans. Stay tune for our next fashion guide on “Prom Night.”

“Fashion is architecture. It is a matter of proportions.”
Coco Chanel
http://educators.fidm.edu/educators/classroom-resources/fashion-qoutes.html


Keep Coco’s thought in mind when trying this spring’s trends out.

Signing Out,
Your Festivity Style Guide xoxo