Summer Solstice 2015: What to Wear?

This weekend marks Summer Solstice, and along with various yoga studios that celebrate with extraordinary amounts of sun salutations (108 to be exact), there are of course, solstice parties. This year, as in every year since I've been blogging,  I will be attending the sold-out Summer Solstice at the Cleveland Museum of Art.

This year, unlike other years, I do not have a "what to wear" dilemma. As I've mentioned, I'm in my "All White Everything" phase, and so surprise surprise, I will be wearing white. I have a few different options: one is a long white and cream vintage dress, the other is a lace mini, and the third is a printed white and blue and gold with a full skirt. With either of these outfits, I'm keeping the same accessories-- gold sandals, gold jewelry, and a pop of color with my bag.

My inspiration board:

Solstice inspiration by shibani-dalal-faehnle 

If you're looking for more Solstice inspiration, look here, here, or here.

Scenes from my Weekend

Whoever decided that weekends  should only last two days demonstrated a serious lack of sound judgement in coming up with this decision. Because weekends and awesome, and they should be longer, damn it! This weekend I managed to fit in a lot of relaxation (read: naps) with a lot of fun, so I feel ready to tackle the week ahead.

Friday, Nick and I attended a super fun event on the GOODTIME III-- it was a white party for AIA,  which fit in perfectly with my "All White Everything" theme this summer. My white seersucker dress (in the middle) is from the Gap, and BONUS, its on sale. Amazing views, perfect temps, and great friends made for a really fun evening. Post, cruise, Nick and I stopped in at Luxe for dinner. If you haven't been lately, its worth a visit-- they have a revamped menu, and the wings are AMAZING.

Saturday was a really nice detox ride at Harness, followed by some meandering and lunch at The Cleveland Flea with Allison. Post nap, Nick and I went to Humble Wine Bar for dinner-- seriously, this place has never failed me-- some rose, some pizza--- a lot of perfect summer evening. I also reached a decision this weekend-- I'm not a fuchsia nail kinda person (even though that's what color my nails are painted right now).

Sunday was a tough day-- it would have been Otto's 7th Birthday. We hung out with Clair and Webster and spoiled them silly with a special breakfast, trip to the pet store, and fun and the dog park. It was a good way to remember Otto and celebrate his life. And then I bought myself some peonies and rose. Because I deserve both. As I type this, I'm a nervous wreck watching the Cavs in Game 5--- by the end of this week, there will be a new NBA Champion, and I really hope its us!

This week is going to be packed with activities--- Cavs games, NKOTB + Nelly + TLC, an Indians game, all leading up to the sold-out Solstice Party at Cleveland Museum of Art! Stay tuned!!

PS: If you're impatient like me, follow along on Instagram for live updates of my week!

CLE Shops: Whiskey Grade

This past Friday, Nick and I attended the opening of Ohio City's newest retail offering, Whiskey Grade.  Located at 2515 Jay Ave (very close to the intersection of Jay and W25th), Whisky Grade is one of the most unique stores I've been to lately! Part biker-store, part vintage treasure hunt, this store has plenty for men and women, whether they're into motorcycles or not.

The store has an incredible industrial feel-- matte black paint, chandeliers of varying styles and sizes, and incredibly interesting design details. From the amazing skylight to the real motorcycles that are hoisted up on some pretty high shelves, to the unusual display of children's toys, to the changing room that's actually an old safe, the interiors are absolutely delightful. Masculine with a kick of feminine sass. 

As I mentioned before, the store's primary focus is people who ride motorcycles, so there's an extensive offering of armored leather jackets that will literally save your life. Also in the life-saving category, an array of very cool helmets. On the fashion side, there's a selection of t-shirts, dress-shirts and denim (jeans and jackets) for men.

But if you were to think that ladies had been neglected at this store, you would be wrong. In addition to some to-die-for leather jackets (I seriously cannot stop thinking about them), there is selection of very well priced and well curated vintage apparel and accessories.

I picked up two dresses (one of which I will wear to Solstice), a clutch, and a beaded jacket for a total of $105 (tax included!). Seriously, you cannot beat the amazing deals, and there are only maybe 1-2 of each item, so its not like you're likely to run into someone wearing the same outfit!

I am so excited about this newest addition to Cleveland's retail scene-- I know I will be visiting them frequently. For more pictures, check out Whiskey Grade on Facebook and definitely stop in the store!

Rock the CATWALK (And a Giveaway)

One of the things I love MOST about Cleveland is how easy it is to get involved in the community- from volunteering for various organizations or joining a board, or being a part of a community development group-- the opportunities exist for anyone who wants to give back and get involved. If you don't have the time available to commit to something on a regular schedule, there is always the option to give back merely by attending a FABULOUS, FUN event. Rock the CATWALK is exactly one such event.

Hosted by The Women's Leadership Council of United Way of Greater Cleveland, this event is a fashion show, showcasing next season's hottest fashions from local boutiques and designers. Not only that, but the event also includes cocktails and hors d'oeuvres, and a silent auction with the opportunity to bid on items such as a Vitamix (and we all know how much I LURVE mine), A Gibson guitar, 12x$100 gift cards to Cleveland area restaurants, vacation packages to warmer climes, and the list continues…. And just in case this wasn't enough, it is being held at one of my most FAVORITE spots in Cleveland- the Atrium at Cleveland Museum of Art. If you're interested in being a part of this event, here are the details:

When: Thursday May 1, 2014 at 6:30 pm

Where: Cleveland Museum of Art

How: Tickets available here 

If you would like to take a look at some pictures from last year's event attended by over 450 people, you can do so here.

Now for the REALLY fun part. You could win TWO general admission tickets to the event by tweeting the following:

"I want to win tickets to Rock the CATWALK @UnitedWayCLE via @cleshopaholic http://goo.gl/LBt011 #UnitedForFashion" 

You may tweet once a day for additional entries!

Follow @UnitedWayCLE and leave me a comment saying you did so for one additional entry. Please make sure you leave your contact info (email/twitter handle etc) so I can reach you in the event you are picked as the winner.

Seriously, what could be more fun than giving back with fashion?! Good luck to all who enter!!! Contest ends at midnight March 30th, 2014, with the winner announced March 31st, 2014. 

Disclosure: I am receiving a pair of tickets to attend Rock the CATWALK and blog about the event. I have also received a pair of tickets to giveaway to a reader. As always, all opinions are 100% my own! 

The Weekender

REMINDER: If you haven't entered the GIVEAWAY for The Movement Factory, you should definitely do so here!

I've been on a lot of short trips lately, both for work and pleasure. And while a roll-y bag is all well and good, I sometimes want something I can just throw over my shoulder. I recently purchased The Weekender Bag at Saturday, and I have to say, this is probably THE best designed weekend bag EVER!!

photo credit

Why do I LURVE this bag?
1. It has a separate section on the bottom that fits 2-3 pairs of shoes! No more having to wrap your shoes separately
2. An outside pocket to stick your boarding pass/phone while you're in the airport
3. A removable interior pocket (I use it to store my mini flat iron)
4. Two interior drawstring pockets.
5. Shoulder strap in addition to handles
6. You can also design your very own Weekender if you're looking for a more unique look!!

The standard size bag (not the small one) fits a pair of pajamas, a set of gym clothes, a dress, a suit, toiletries, and there's still room to spare! I could comfortably fit in another outfit if I wanted to!

What do you use when you travel for a weekend trip? Do you have a bag you LURVE?

Wearing Tiffany To A County Fair

Each Labor Day Weekend, the Geauga County Fairgrounds host The Great Geauga County Fair. While a county fair is not typically my thing, we have a 3-year old nephew who really wanted to see barnyard animals, so off we went. I had two major concerns for the day: (1) What is the appropriate attire for a county fair, and (2) What sort of fried cheese would I want?

Knowing that it was going to be ridiculously hot and humid, and barnyard animals = barnyard animal poop, I decided to keep in casual and comfortable with shorts, a tee, ankle height boots, and of course, jewelry. While a county fair may not be the first place one might expect to see Tiffany jewelry, the beauty of the Tiffany silver jewelry pieces are that they are absolutely casual enough to wear anywhere, including The Great Geauga County Fair!!

The Tiffany Atlas bangle in medium and narrow

The bangles again, with the Atlas lariat in sterling silver

Tiffany would be perfect on a Harley too. 

A closer look at the bangles while I play tug with Clair

As far as the second question of the day: Fried swiss cheese on a stick was definitely the way to go!!

Disclosure: Tiffany & Co. lent me a number of pieces from their 2013 Atlas Collection and asked me to blog about how I would incorporate these pieces in my daily wardrobe. I have received no other compensation other than the ability to wear these pieces for the allocated time period. As always, all opinions are 100% my own. 

The Pinnacle of My Blogging Career

OMG! I HAVE REACHED THE PINNACLE OF MY BLOGGING CAREER!!!!

It is no secret that I'm a lover of sparkly things, particularly jewelry. So, you can only imagine my absolute JOY when I was contacted by representatives from Tiffany & Co. about a collaboration to celebrate the opening of their new store on Chagrin Boulevard. 

The collaboration is this: Tiffany has lent me pieces from their 2013 Atlas Collection to incorporate into my daily wardrobe. If you haven't seen it before, the Atlas Collection features classic Roman numerals, as shown below- 

So for this entire week, you will see posts of me wearing these incredible pieces of jewelry along with my normal wardrobe! CUE THE SQUEALING!!

Disclosure: Tiffany & Co. lent me a number of pieces from their 2013 Atlas Collection and asked me to blog about how I would incorporate these pieces in my daily wardrobe. I have received no other compensation other than the ability to wear these pieces for the allocated time period. As always, all opinions are 100% my own. 

All Pinned Up

I've been trying to grow my hair out for a few years, and I'm starting to get a little restless. I've done the bangs, no bangs, highlights, and I'm currently rocking ombre. While I would love to experiment with updos, quite frankly, I have no updo skills. Seriously. I can eff up a sock bun. Lucky for me, a few months ago, I ran into a hairstyle so simple, even I can do it....

Source: bellasugar.com via cleshopaholic on Pinterest

Source: bellasugar.com via cleshopaholic on Pinterest

Bobby pins!!!!  Seriously, how much easier can this get?!?! For a more dramatic look, just line up a few of them in a row! Best of all, this past weekend, I found these at Target!

 How awesome are these?! Adorable, completely on trend for spring with the bright colors, and best of all each set was under $5!!!! 

Madewell and an AWESOME giveaway!!!

If you're a fan of J. Crew, then perhaps you've heard of its sister brand, Madewell. Madewell has a more casual look than J. Crew, and while it does many things well, it is probably best know for its denim. Lucky for  us Clevelanders, the Madewell stores opened at Beachwood Place on August 1st, and I stopped by a few days after the grand opening in the name of, umm, research (that's my story and I'm sticking to it).

The store is on the second floor, sorta close to J. Crew. I can't remember what store used to be there, but I think it used to be Metropark.

I walked in the store and immediately spotted at least 10 things that I wanted. Top on the list are the black boots pictured in the window above. They retail for about $300 and are the most sumptuous leather I have ever felt in a boot. They're made it Italy, naturally...

I also fell totally in love with a couple of necklaces, a few adorable scarves, and a silver sparkly cardi.

I walked through the store taking mental notes of all the things I was going to add to my Amazon wishlist (which, btw, you can use for things not sold on Amazon as well- highly recommend you use it and keep it updated for anyone looking to gift you something LOL), and yet resisted buying anything (I was trying to be disciplined). This worked pretty well, until I brushed my hand across a pair of jeans. One touch of the blue, soft, rail-straight fabric and my resolve FELL TO PIECES!!! I'm only human, and those jeans were just waaaaayyyy to much temptation. AND, with a price point of $98.50, they were just too good a deal to pass up!!!

Madewell:1; My resolve: 0

Here comes my favorite part of this post-- Not wanting to leave my readers out of the experience of these jeans (which I have worn almost every day over the past week), thanks to Madewell, I'm giving away a $100 giftcard to Madewell, to use on whatever you like at the store!!!!

Here's how you enter (each gets you 1 entry):
1. Leave me a comment letting me know of your one must-have item for fall
2. Tweet about the contest and link back to this post (please make sure you mention me @cleshopaholic in the post)-- you can do this once a day for more entries
3. Post a link to this post on your facebook page (and please leave me a comment saying you did so)-- you can do this once a day for more entries as well

Contest ends at 9:00 pm on Sunday August 19th, with a random winner picked and announced August 20th.

Madewell is also hosting an in-store event on Thursday August 16th, featuring a Madewell stylist to help you pick your outfit!! AND, if you bring in a pair of gently worn jeans for donation, you will receive 20% off a new pair of jeans!!!! But wait, there's more: starting at 6 pm, if you're one of the first 100 guests to stop by guest services at Beachwood Place, you will receive a $10 giftcard to Madewell.

You know where I'll be (donating my old jeans) on the 16th, I hope I see you there too!!! Good luck to all who enter!!!

Disclosure: Madewell is providing the $100 gift card for the giveaway. All other opinions expressed in this post are 100% my own!! 

Summer Solstice 2012

So, I had every intention of doing a Best Dressed of Solstice 2012, like I did last year, but then Chardonnay happened, and what you've got is a bunch of pictures of my friends, who were wearing SUPER cute outfits, but unlike last year, I made absolutely NO effort to approach strangers. Apologies...

There was however, one stand-out trend-- Green was THE COLOR of the night!

 With Danielle 

 Danielle & Wes

 The architects: Brian, N, Wes

 Alexa & Deery- gorgeous in green!

 Charity and I own the same Dolce Vita for Target wedges-- v. high but comfortable!

 Eamon, Suzanne, Charity, and Ben

 Michelle & Frank

 Jen, Danielle, Charity and me

 With N, a few days before our 8 year anniversary!!

 with Reshae

 Michelle and Allison (rawr)

 Sassy Courtney and Charlene- work it ladies!

My one disappointment with the event was that unlike past years, there was no element of surprise- prior years have included fireworks or performance art- I hope the Museum considers bringing it back next year.

So around 1 am, Charity and Ben suggested we join them (and Suzanne and Eamon) at Tick-Tock Tavern, which is very close to home.  Then this happened...

Cheesy fries....

Let's just say the next day required a lot of hydration. Overall, another excellent night in Cleveland! Were you at Solstice? What did you love/wish were different?

Summer Solstice 2012: What to wear...

Its no secret that the Summer Solstice Party at the Cleveland Museum of Art is one of my most favorite events of the summer. Last year, I did a post-mortem on some of my favorite looks from the event, and you can be sure that I will be doing one again this year. However, this year, I also have a preview- a sort of what-to-wear in the event you're attending and are stumped. My favorite part about this post is that all these outfits are from our very own, locally-owned store, Room Service!!

Here are my rules for dressing for this event:
1. The crowd is an all-ages, all-styles crowd. The older crowd tends to be dressed a little more formal- full length ball gowns, taffeta, silk... the younger crowd is more edgy- leather, lace, very much on trend, some music-festival like outfits. In short, anything goes. Wear what you feel comfortable in, because you're going to want to dance. If there's an outfit or look you really want to try but don't have quite the place or occasion to try it, THIS IS IT. Take risks, have fun! You will NOT look out of place no matter what you choose as long as its YOUR style.

2. Shoes: Invariably, you will end up in the grass. Just remember, grass + skinny heels = sinking. I usually wear wedges to this event, but an espadrille or pretty flat would work really well.

3. Accessories: Don't carry a clutch purse- it will just get in your way. This event calls for a wristlet or cross-body-- something that keeps your hands free for hand-holding, drink-holding, picture-taking, tweeting, dancing, etc. Have fun with your jewelry, and if you feel like wearing a hat, GO FOR IT!


A popular choice for women is a dress-- its easy, effortless, comfortable, and looks pretty and dressy without being stuffy.  These Room Service dresses are adorable and completely on trend, so if you're at a loss for what to wear to Solstice, or really any event this summer, these are all excellent options!

I love this blue dress- its flirtatious and sexy with the sheer lace, and has sleeves for those of you who are uncomfortable with your upper arms. 

White, is well, white hot this summer. The little yellow detail is unexpected and yet totally adorable!

Tangerine Tango was Pantone's color of the year, so you absolutely cannot go wrong with this color. I might pair this with a red or hot pink shoe and incorporate some subtle color blocking via the shoe as well! 

How cute is this print with the little yellow detail?!?!? 

Room Service may not be the first store to come to mind for party dresses, but as you can see, they have some really REALLY cute options! I hope you will stop in or call and check them out for yourselves!! 

Are you attending the Summer Solstice Party at the Cleveland Museum of Art this year? Are you attending any other Solstice celebrations?

216 bangles

Its no secret that I love jewelry. Its also no secret that these days I'm really into bracelets and bangles. Late last year, I picked up a lovely set of stackable bangles on etsy from georgiedesigns. One of my favorite things about etsy is the ability to customize, and of course, I did just that by choosing a set of 3 gold fill bangle bracelets with the numbers 2-1-6. Cleveland pride on my wrist!!!!

All wrapped up, and on my wrist!! You can be sure I will be wearing these A LOT this summer!!

Pants and Potpourri

So, if you've flipped through a fashion mag lately, you will notice that among other prints, denim manufacturers are trying to get you to add these to your wardrobe:

From L to R: Paige Denim "Skyline", J Brand, Citizens of Humanity "Mandy"

Yesterday, Allison and I had a conversation that revolved around the topic of printed denim (and I've edited/paraphrased here...)

Me: How do you feel about printed denim? I'm very undecided on the matter...

Allison: It depends... I've seen some light snow leopard pants I'm a fan of...

Me: I've decided I definitely don't like floral. Definitely. Looks like a couch.

Allison: Look, I'm not potpourri, so don't make me look like it! 

Couldn't have said it better myself!!!!!

For the record, we have concluded that we are fine with floral bottoms, as long as they're either a short skirt or shorts. Bottom to ankle floral is a no-no for us. Will you go floral bottoms this summer? What about other printed denim?

Rules for successful dress shopping

For those of you attending Jump Back Ball next weekend, I really hope you already have your dress! However, if you don't, and are planning to go dress shopping this weekend, I have some tips to help you have a greater shot at success! (And really. these rule apply to all dress and jean shopping occasions).

So here goes:
1. No salt, sugar, carbs or alcohol for 24 hours prior to your shopping excursion. If you're allergic to dairy, avoid this as well. This is crucial. Consuming these items will result in bloating, which in turn means your will likely feel like crap and consequently hate everything.
2. Drink green tea for a few hours before your excursion. This will help with any inadvertent bloat, and may help you go potty (something about the warm fluids and your digestive system. I'm not making this up- its ancient Indian wisdom. For real).
3.  Wear your Spanx. Look, let's be honest- we all have parts of our body that we feel could use some work, and for most women its their tummy/hips. Spanx help smooth the jiggle. Don't fight it. If it works on the Hollywood red carpet, it works on YOUR red carpet. Embrace your Spanx. And then take them off the minute you get home.
4.  Do your hair and makeup. You may be feeling lazy on a Saturday/Sunday morning, but DO NOT miss this step. 90% of dressing rooms have terrible lighting and result in shadows, particularly on your face. If you go make-up free, you will end up focussing on your dark circles and splotchy skin and hate everything you try on.
5. TRY STUFF ON!! If you're not comfortable trying stuff on in the aforementioned poorly lit changing room, check the stores return policy and take them home to try on. Make sure you leave all the tags in and keep your receipts so you can return things appropriately. AND, make sure you try at least one item you wouldn't normally try. Step outside your comfort zone. You never know what you may find.

My 6th tip is optional: Personally, I prefer to shop alone. However, if you're the kind of person who likes to shop with other people, make sure you take a friend who will be HONEST with you. Don't take Yes-men/women. You need honesty. And, if all else fails, just email me pics at cleshopaholic@gmail.com. I promise to respond.

Well, there you have it! Happy Shopping!!!!

Jump Back Ball: Discount Code and More outfit ideas

So, I've been waiting to do this post ever since I first heard about the Alice in Wonderland/Through the Looking Glass theme for Jump Back Ball. Perhaps you've taken a look at my outfit ideas and want to embellish them a little, or perhaps you already have an outfit, and are looking for a little something to add to it- something that reflects this incredible theme. Well, what better way to interpret the theme, and make a head-turning entrance, than with a fabulous hat?!?!

Top row: Red wool fascinator, Queen of Hearts mini top hat,  Custom Mad Hatter hat
Bottom row: House of Cards fascinator, Lace Bunny Ears, Classic mini Mad Hatter

I will hopefully be wearing a fascinator. I say "hopefully" because it all depends on how my hair ends up that day!!

In any case, I really hope I see you at Jump Back Ball this year! It is SUCH a fun event, and supports such a great cause that you REALLY should consider attending. If you haven't bought your ticket yet, I have good news!! For ONE DAY ONLY on Friday January 20, 2012, you can purchase your Jump Back Ball ticket for $165 (a $5 discount from the original price), AND NO HANDLING FEES. The promo code is LURVE. There is a limit of 4 tickets per order, and is valid ONLINE only. Tickets may be purchased by using THIS link.

In addition to all the fabulous Cleveland party people, there will be plenty of delicious nibbles and drink-worthy beverages (I really hope they do a special shot named "Drink Me"), and of course fabulous bands: This year's bands are Radioactive and Tricky Dick and the Coverups! Can't wait to see you there!!!

Disclosure: I received two VIP tickets to Jump Back Ball in exchange for blogging about the event. As always, all opinions are my own!! 

Jump Back Ball- How will you wear the theme?

Are you as excited about Jump Back Ball as I am? This year's event is coming up so fast, and I for one, can't wait!! As I've mentioned before,  its some of the best people watching around, and I can't wait to see what everyone wears!!  There really are no rules- cocktail attire is appropriate, but I really hope that women don't take their cues from last night's Golden Globe awards. BOOOORRRINNGGG. Nude dress after nude dress, with far too few flashes of color, the predominant one being blue. I just want to point out that I wore blue at New Year's Eve, so I'm patting myself on the back for effectively being ahead of the trend. LOL


Besides going with a cocktail dress, I thought I might highlight some ways to "wear" this year's Alice in Wonderland/Through the Looking Glass theme with a few dress options.

1. Tweedledum and Tweedledee

Source: bluefly.com via cleshopaholic on Pinterest

2. Queen of Hearts

Source: bluefly.com via cleshopaholic on Pinterest

3. White Rabbit

Source: bluefly.com via cleshopaholic on Pinterest

4. And of course, Alice

Source: bluefly.com via cleshopaholic on Pinterest

If you haven't gotten your tickets yet, there is still time, although tickets are selling fast. I will also have a very special discount code for my readers later this week, so stay tuned!!! 


I'm not planning to wear any of the outfits above (I already have mine), but if you're looking for something to wear and are stumped, feel free to click through the links and get any one of these- with the exception of the white sparkly one (which is around $225), the other dresses are all under $200. 

Disclosure: I'm receiving two tickets to Jump Back Ball in exchange for blogging about the event. As always, all opinions are my own. 

My TV obsession - Downton Abbey

I only have a short time until Season 2 begins, so I'm going to get straight to the point. DOWNTON ABBEY. If you're not watching this show, you are seriously missing out. I watched Season 1 via Amazon Prime late last year, and I was instantly hooked. Its a British period piece, set in a fictional town in Yorkshire. The series follows the story of the aristocratic Crawley family, including their household staff. It's so interesting to see the difference in lifestyle between the upstairs of the house and the downstairs (servants quarters), but both are filled with drama and intrigue. This show has everything- compelling story, great cast (including the awesome awesome Maggie Smith), drama, war, period costumes, family intrigue, star-crossed lovers, social change-- EVERYTHING!! Did I mention its part of the Masterpiece Classic on PBS, so you can feel intellectually superior as you watch it?

Just look at these costumes!!!! So glamorous, and people even got dressed for dinner at home!!! In the meantime, I will be watching in my PJs. The complete opposite of glamor. It happens...

Season 2 begins tonight on PBS at 9:00 pm EST. 

A Great Look to Start 2012

So I spent NewYear's Eve at a wedding. Double the need to come up with a TRULY fabulous outfit. And what better way to go fabulous inexpensively, than Rent the Runway! I had used RTR before, my had an odd case of reverse body dysmorphia, and picked a dress, that quite frankly, looked like sausage casing. Luckily, since then, I've discovered the true shape of my body, and picked a dress that was absolutely perfect: the Badgley Mischka draped dream dress, pictured here.

Sadly, I don't think I have a picture of me standing in the dress, but it was absolutely gorgeous on, and I felt like a princess!! Incidentally, if you want to rent your own dress, say for Jump Back Ball, use the RTR link above. In any case, here are some pictures from the wedding (you may have seen them already on Twitter/Instagram, so I apologize).

 

I will offer you one warning about RTR: it is possible that despite reading the reviews, and carefully picking your outfit, you may not like your dress. Therefore, always make sure you have a back-up that you are satisfied with, so as to avoid last minute wardrobe-induced panic!!!!