Cut-outs Have Clout but aren't Clouts

So who knew that "clout" could mean so many things? I love rhyming in my titles so imagine my complete and utter glee when I found the following definitions for clout (among other things):

1 informal a heavy blow with the hand or a hard object : a clout on the ear.2 informal influence or power, esp. in politics or business : I knew he carried a lot of clout.3 archaic a piece of cloth or clothing, esp. one used as a patch.
Hopefully you understand what's going on here now ;). 
Let me say that with this outfit, I was going for some sassy ventilation. But mostly, I just wanted to be Zoe S. as seen below:

 Instead of all denim everything, I opted to make the denim (with cool shoulder cut-outs) the focal point by working with some black shorts, flip-flops and a crocheted purse. To top it off, I threw in a long shimmery (NOT SEQUINED) necklace and of course, toocoolforschool aviators.
Denim is in, which is cool and everything but why not make it your own? Take a risk, have some fun and give the fashion-world a clout ;).

Fondly,The Style Scribe 

Color A La Mode

I've tried to be okay without posting to this blog.

*Clears Throat*

I've tried to wear outfits that I find fun and not share them.

It's not working.

Therefore I've decided that it's better for me to post occasionally to relieve my writer's itch (worse than Athlete's Foot y'all—I'm assuming :D ) than to not post at all. While I can't commit to posting weekly, I can commit to posting consistently every now and then. Sound good to you? Awesome sauce.

Also, instead of a sermon about my sabbatical, I'm down to get right back into what we all love discussing— style.  Seeing that it's still summer, vibrant color is definitely a la mode. We all have that cute cyan romper, those canary yellow shorts or that rainbow top that we look for to express our summer love.

But there is an opportunity for color that often, I see go unnoticed....

Wait for it.....

SHOES. Yes shoes. I mean vibrant, loud, kaleidoscopic shoes. Before you seek to run and escape (did she just say kaleidoscopic?), hear me out.

For me, summer is about fun and adventure. What better way to have fun with clothes than to pick out your outfit from the bottom up? I usually pick a particularly colorful pair of shoes (usually some variation of TOMS) and decide on a dress/top that will compliment the footwear.

On the bright day in Valencia pictured here, I went for a coralish crochet dress with a camel belt and purse. The key with the crazy shoes is to stick to only one major bright color up top. We're trying to keep color a la mode, not metamorphose into giant Disney spiral lollipops.  If you're feeling a little less adventurous, you can stick to neutrals up top.

Fondly,
The Style Scribe

Going Block is so Hot

You've spent enough time staring at the background, so get it together. Thank you. Can we actually talk style now? :)

Don't you just love block-colored outfits? I mean, when else is it really legal to put yellow, red-orange and white together? Even though I don't always go simple, I'll always stand by it. Simplicity is what makes this work. If this blouse had all of a sudden been patterned...poof! I'd belong in an Austin Powers movie. I chose gold thong sandals and gold, tiered earrings to top it off.

Can you in good faith think that that block isn't hot? I think not.

Fondly,
The Style Scribe

All-American- Mostly

An entire year later we must all be wondering what's going on. "That Style Scribe doesn't even post anymore," "Pshh, I'm deleting this from my Google Reader!" Although I make no excuses, going from writing essays and taking exams to teaching 120 middle schoolers has been quite a lifestyle switch. I have to say I've missed this though, and considering that I now live in the Nation's Capital, I should have plenty of interesting things to report style-wise.

I felt that a Fourth-of-Julyesque post would be a fun return to the blogosphere. 

Even as a person who didn't grow up in the good ole US of A, I really do enjoy the Fourth of July. There's food, fireworks and fun. Some people think that holiday-themed outfits can't be chic- but I don't think the two are mutually exclusive. Here, I pair my favorite stars and stripes halter with a white, 100% cotton long-sleeved button-up (tied at the waste to keep it casual). I thought it'd be a great way to give off that "I'm sexy and I know it without trying too hard" feel. I wanted to keep it fun so I popped a red headband and red earrings to keep the colorful, cheerful vibe going.

And to top it off, what says quintessential American gear more than aviator Ray Bans? If you think of something, pray tell.

All in all— you can go with the theme of the moment, without being the meme of the moment.

Fondly,

The Style Scribe

Derby in a Hurry

Firstly, I have to thank Caleb Fox for taking this amazing photo. I went to a "Kentucky Derby" themed boat party so you can imagine all the fabulous hats that were on display. I happen to really enjoy hats, but typically, not the huge Derby-worthy kind.

It's also not a good thing when you realize an hour before the party starts that the dressiest hat you have is a fedora— panic time. This is when you learn to make something otherwise unfitting into something fabulous.

 This hat was initially adorned with a long black scarf, but I felt it was a little boring for this type of party. I decided to replace it with something a lot more colorful and summery.  The scarf is 100% silk, and is actually one of my favorites, it's an item that gets quite a bit of mileage in my wardrobe.

So, as you can see, even the Style Scribe doesn't have everything in her closet. But it doesn't matter as long as you learn the meaning of a good ole transformation.

Fondly,
The Style Scribe

Rad Grad

First off, congrats to all the 2011 UT graduates. It took a lot of work and dedication to get to this place! 

Obviously no outfit to speak of here. What I want to tell you is that just because you have on a robe, doesn't mean you can't still be stylish. In this case, it's all about the shoes (which is pretty much the only thing it can be about). I chose zebra print because save for the kente stole (which is multicolored) it goes perfectly.  My College of Communication regalia was red so you can imagine that it quite a statement while walking across the stage. 

So whenever it's your turn to take to the stage and get a piece of paper that's actually not  your diploma, do it in style. 

Fondly,

The Style Scribe

Eternally Wild

Not that kind of wild. Get it together. I mean this ^ kind of wild. The kind that's just enough but not too much. The kind that adds a splash of fun without looking overdone (wow I'm just on a roll with the rhyming today :) )

But honestly, on those days when you pop on a simple blouse and some distressed jeans, you can still make a statement with an accessory that pumps things up. This picture doesn't do the detailing of the scarf justice. It's really a mash-up of different prints from leopard to zebra, with little dots of color here and there. The scarf (coupled with some gladiator-inspired sandals) really takes the outfit from simple to sizzlin' (I promise that's the last corny line for the day).

I think this outfit shows how key accessorizing is. I'm sensing a blog post on the topic coming along, so sit tight. You might even get a perfect little graduation dress feature if you're really good :).

Fondly,

The Style Scribe

It's lean, it's mean it's Tangerine

Sometimes all it takes is a single piece to change an outfit completely. Skinny jeans and fitted tops always go well together and provide nice, sleek lines. But throw in a tangerine-colored silk scarf and you're onto the next level. 

I think I should just admit right now that I pretty much have an obsession with scarves. Colorful, plain, long, short, heavy, light— it doesn't matter. Unfortunately, as Texas heat begins to have its way, aside from occasionally wearing one as a head-wrap (i.e. gypsy style), it's really impractical to wear certain scarves. However, if you stick to light fabrics and small sizes, you can definitely get away with it comfortably. 

So my advice for wardrobe versatility as we head into summer; don't be afraid of the scarf!

Fondly,

The Style Scribe

Easy, Breezy, Beautiful Tie-Dye Top

Oh tie-dye. It's one of those things that can be done really right and really wrong. I'd like to think that this works. Having just two colors keeps it classy but adds interest to what might otherwise be a Plain Jane ensemble. The tiered seashell earrings accentuate the airy simplicity of the top.

Another aspect of this outfit that I'd like to mention is the porous nature of the top. It's hot, and I don't mean a cute kind of hot. I mean the sticky, icky sweaty, gross kind of hot. So why am I wearing anything with sleeves? That's the beauty of cotton (of the Egyptian sort especially). Natural fibers in hot weather will be your best friend. The top is actually a net-like/mesh consistency, and it allows me to feel the few breezes that nature is kind enough to bestow.

Just remember you can stay cool and stay cute.

Fondly,

The Style Scribe

That's so '70s!

I've only ever watched that show once or twice, but I do think that the title is an apt description of what I'm wearing! On this day, it was all about the high-waisted light denim skirt. Nothing says '70s fab more than that combination. This style of skirt highlights your waist and allows you to show a little leg!

I also threw in a little tribal wear with the wooden bracelet and beaded top. I think that the beaded detailing at the center of the tank top makes for a great focal point.

Try this...

Close your eyes....Open them really quickly and look at the picture....what do you notice first? If you don't say the beaded top then you're just being defiant :)

Overall, this outfit is about giving an ode to the past and mixing it with fun elements/trends from the present!

Fondly,
The Style Scribe

Forget Black and Yellow⎯It's all about Green and Blue

So on this day I set out to have some fun. The weather was in an awkward place where the sun is out, so it's not cold, but the wind is blowing so it's a little uncomfortable to go all the way summer. 

I typically don't bother to harass you with all the details about where each item is from (if you want to know, you can ask). But I do want to point out that I got the blouse (which I happen to LOVE) from a clothing swap party that my friend had. Yes, someone decided that this hardly used blouse could be given up (I don't understand it either). I've had a ton of fun and gotten great things at these kinds of parties. You should definitely think about throwing one with your friends.

Also, the wonderful beaded necklace is actually from Senegal. My grandmother went on a trip a few years ago and brought it back as a gift for me. Score!

Overall, I think it's okay to be a little whimsical and fun sometimes. Maybe everyday isn't a Green and Blue day⎯ but some are.

Fondly,

The Style Scribe

Bright with White

It's spring people, and I've definitely been feeling the need to wear clothes appropriate for the weather. This weekend I was inspired to give the sun as little leeway as possible to exact its rays on me.

There is nothing on earth like cotton and light colors to beat the heat as spring turns into summer. In this outfit I decided to pair white, knee-length shorts with a v-neck wrap blouse. I must digress here and say that this is one of my favorite spring/summer tops. It gives off a floral, fun vibe without being too frilly or obnoxious. For the shoes I went for cream-colored wedges, which also happen to be the most comfortable shoes you've ever encountered.

All of this to say please don't roast as we get into the months of Texas fury. You can stay cute with figure accentuating-tops that also allow for much-needed ventilation.

Fondly,
The Style Scribe

If Nautical Nonsense Aint Something You Wish

If you know that line, then you've probably watched too many episodes of Spongebob (clearly a hypocrite speaking here haha). So I guess on this day I was reminiscing on some of the fantastic days and nights I've spent sailing the beautiful waters of the British Virgin Islands. Or perhaps just in the mood for some fun stripes. Whatever the case, I think this outfit was definitely nautically inspired!

I have to give a close-up so that you can see the details that show you what I'm talking about....

Everything from the shell necklace and earrings to the rope-strapped sack-type bag say that I'm ready to hit the high seas. I think a good tip with stripes (and any bold print in general) is to try to break them up so that they don't become overwhelming. I opted for an elbow-length black cotton jacket.

Fondly, 

The Style Scribe

Legal Piracy

We all engage in a little piracy every now and then (well, maybe not since Limewire recently shut down ha!). But I would like to introduce you to a type of piracy that the Feds can't crack down on you for.

It involves scarves, hoop earrings and multiple bangles. It's something you just have to go for and have fun with.

The elements that make this outfit evoke the Cpt. Jack Sparrow feeling are definitely the scarf tied to cover the head, the vest (for structure) and the flowing skirt. People are sometimes nervous about donning an ankle-length skirt. It really isn't a huge issue once the skirt is loose. Please don't throw on a mermaid skirt and say that I condone it.

I would definitely say that my Caribbean-ness was coming out in this outfit. If you haven't noticed already, I'm pretty much obsessed with bright colors. They put you in a good mood, and people can't help but look!

I topped this look off with colorful bangles, hoop earrings and a necklace with a translucent pendant. This look is fun, comfortable and eye-catching. As spring turns in to summer, it's also a great way to stay cool. 

Fondly,

The Style Scribe

It's Great to be Hot without Scorching

It's springtime in Austin and the nights are a lot warmer than they used to be (aka 80℉) . Let's just say that sometimes, you want a cute alternative to jeans so that you're hot but not hot. As much as some people detest this particular piece of clothing I must once again advocate for it....

Ventilation + Stylish= Sheer Tights

I'm just saying...

But seriously people, the eggplant tights above add a punch of color without being as dense a fabric as jeans are... And because they're sheer and they reflect light, they add to the glamorous night/sequin vibe. 

This outfit is also a testament to the fact that with the right elements, rompers can transition into night time pieces. 

So please, be [and stay] cool by deviating from your jean routine this weekend.

Fondly,

The Style Scribe

Pump it up

It's been a long time coming, what with Spring Break and all. But I hope you're ready to put on some heels. 

What we have here is the difference between "fun" and downright diva. If I had paired this dress with thong sandals or  boots or any other type of shoe, I don't believe that it would have been as stand-out as it is with these white Steve Madden heels. 

I know I know, a typical day out on the town doesn't always facilitate being sky-high. However, there are those moments when you want to do something different, something snazzy....that's when you go get those über-high shoes and stop traffic. 

Go on, it's perfectly okay to get noticed! 

Fondly,

The Style Scribe

I don't think you're ready for this jelly!

Yes I just quoted Destiny's Child, I couldn't resist! It's the first thing that came to mind with these fun pinkish jelly shoes. I know, so incredibly 90s....but it's okay!

I think this outfit serves as a reminder that it's okay to just have fun. I'm wearing black, ankle-length tights, a navy, printed, high-wasted skirt with a skinny navy belt and a hot pink shirt to add a kick.  Of course, nothing says fun like Ray B's of the neon variety—they're my main accessory (along with a tiered black necklace).

I have to put a qualifier on having "fun." Fun doesn't mean "go crazy." If I had put any other color on this outfit I would have definitely been pushing it (and not in a good way). Your aim is to add flashes of color without looking like you're a neon-obsessed fiend from Rush Week ( please refer to our color guide friend from a few posts back). 

Just remember that as with anything else, it's all about balance.

Fondly,

The Style Scribe

Polka Dots and Pretty Headbands

Perfect weather means you can whip out some summer favs. Today, that meant my favorite polka dotted wedges and cutesy flower headband.

 I literally took the shoes out first, and started working from the bottom up. The base color of the wedges  is a sort of dark grayish-green which I thought would really go well with my coral-colored long-sleeved shirt (remember the color wheel people!). Leggings, and a high-wasted skirt with a thin hunter green and brown belt constitute the bottom.  I topped it off (quite literally) with a headband with a rose and gold colored flower and long gold earrings. 

I think that this outfit shows that the little touches are sometimes what make up an outfit. An understanding of color and accessories can take you a long way!

Fondly,

The Style Scribe

It's Spring!

Hey everyone!

So the hiatus is over. The Style Scribe is back and ready to get rolling!

Distressed jeans....check

Bright, fun print.......check

Fun chunky jewelry........check

Spring can be fun and casual. It can also be romantic and flowing.  This outfit embodies the laid-back and fun attitude of the season. The orange, printed J. Crew blouse is loose and has a ruffled collar with buttons (you can't see from far)— an ode to springtime romanticism. It's also light enough material to allow for ventilation without being too airy. 

The belt toughens the blouse up a bit, and sets the tone for the jeans and the boots. To top it off, I wore a few earth-tone bangles, a necklace with a circular translucent pendant.

I think this outfit reflects a balance I seek to strike— being feminine and fun but having a little edginess at the same time. Perfect way to give Spring a hearty welcome!

Fondly,

The Style Scribe

A Purple Beret Goes a Long Way

Hey Everyone!

I'm back from a mini-hiatus and I'm swinging! I've gotten some suggestions from a number of you guys on how to make the blog better, so look out for some event-specific advice in the coming months!

In this, the first post of the new year I'm keeping it simple. I know,  I know.....the first thing you probably think of when you see a beret is a French painter capturing your likeness with the perennial Eiffel Tower in the background. 

Well, I would like to inform you that you are terribly mistaken for that assumption seeing that Berets originated with the shepherds of Basque country in northern Spain (take that!).

I really cannot express the depth of my gratitude to those faithful sheep guardians for inventing such an incredibly useful accessory. It's perfect for winter because it keeps your head nice and toasty, and instead of the traditional black, berets now come in a delightful array of colors (and even with embellishment!).

The hat takes this outfit from 0 to 60 in....well really quickly. Pair it with a similarly colored skinny belt and you have yourself a deal!

This is also another verse in the ode to stepping out of the "boring" winter mentality. There is no set time frame for color exploration!

Fondly,

The Style Scribe