The Classy Woman

1  |   2  |   3  |   4  |  5  |   6  |   7  |   8 .... Today's post is one that is long overdue. One question that I've received again and again over the years in the comments, via e-mail and on social media is what particular books I recommend on the topic of Manners and Etiquette. I thought it was about time that I put together a post to share some of my favorite resources for you, and of course I can now easily direct those with future inquiries here too! Over the years I've read several books on the topic of good manners, everyday etiquette, becoming a lady as well as civility in general and these are the books that I personally recommend to add to your library to brush up on proper etiquette as you endeavor to become even more polished, well mannered and ultimately become a more classy woman. 1  |   2  |   3  |   4  |   5  |   6  |   7 ...

Plaid Shirt: sold out (similar in pink  here , here  +  here )  |  Jacket: Gap old (similar here  +  here ) Skinny Jeans: mine are really faded but these are the exact dark wash new (+ another wash ) Booties:   Sole Society sold out (similar here , here + here )  |   Earrings: Majorica |   Bracelet:   Nina Sunglasses:  old (similar here + here )  |   Handbag:  Calvin Klein old  (similar  here ,  here  + here ) Belt: Loft old (other hot pink styles here + here )  |   Lip gloss: Honeybee Gardens (innocence) JavaScript is currently disabled in this browser. Reactivate it to view this content. .... I wore this outfit last week on the most beautiful January day. It started off fairly chilly but the sun warmed things up quickly by noon. It was one of those days where you look for excuses to spend time outside even when you're supposed to be working inside. ;) I don't typical...

Save (top left):   1  |   2  |   3  |   4  |   5  |   6 Splurge (top right):   1  |   2  |   3  |   4  |   5  |   6 JavaScript is currently disabled in this browser. Reactivate it to view this content. JavaScript is currently disabled in this browser. Reactivate it to view this content. See more similar styles just above, they're all under $100!  .... Since I have an outfit post scheduled for this Friday, I'm sharing another Save vs. Splurge edition today instead, this time focusing on handbags. As you all know, I always preach the importance of investing in quality items for the long haul, especially with handbags and shoes in classic shapes, colors and styles. There are times though where we just want something in the moment and know that it will take a lot of time to save up for the more expensive designer version. If you're just starting out in the workforce, ...

One characteristic of every classy woman is her ability to admit when she is wrong and apologize to another if she has hurt them, offended them (once she's aware of it), ignored them, upset them, etc. Being able to own up to our mistakes and say sorry when know we are in the wrong is not only good manners but it builds trust and confidence in others and allows them to feel more comfortable around us and just creates a more pleasant environment. An apology never takes away what had been said and done but it's necessary to let the other person know that you care and respect them enough to address it and you're willing to make it right. You can read my other Manners Monday post on " How to Apologize ". There will be many times in life when we knowingly or unknowingly do something to make someone else feel uncomfortable. The key is to avoid letting it linger and address it head on. I have a few people in my life who are not good at apologizing, even when they are wron...

JavaScript is currently disabled in this browser. Reactivate it to view this content. I hope you all had a fantastic weekend! Lily has been feverish and not feeling well as it's going around and it seems her entire class is sick, so I've been getting my snuggle time in with her as she's usually too on-the-go to cuddle. As I do every month, I've put together my favorite pieces for this wintry time of year although I'll admit, I've craving the colors of spring evidenced by a few bold pieces I've included. Even though I live in the sunshine state, we still get our fair share of 'cold' weather and rain during the winter months. I love wearing cozy sweaters, layering up and finishing off my outfits with a soft scarf. Oh, and boots have been mandatory almost every day for the past few weeks! Winter with all of its layers always feels a bit more formal and polished which I really like, so many of the pieces I chose reflect that but I also love a relaxed fee...

Save (above left):   Skirt  | Pumps | Sunglasses | Handbag | Blouse Splurge (above right):   Skirt  | Pumps | Sunglasses | Handbag | Blouse .... JavaScript is currently disabled in this browser. Reactivate it to view this content. If you love flipping through fashion magazines and seeing the hi/low outfit and beauty posts as much as I do, then this one's for you! I've selected a few of my favorite classic styles for this classy outfit and am sharing both investment pieces as well as more budget-friendly options so that you can achieve this look for less. I've been meaning to start a series like this for a long time and this is the first of many to come! Since I'm an Interior Designer and spend my days hunting down for the perfect pieces for my clients, I'll be extending this to home decor inspiration also, so stay tuned for that! As you all know, I'm a big believer in investing in 'forever' pieces and building a closet that will be timeless. If y...

Hi Lovelies and welcome back to our Manners Monday series! Let's begin by talking about wine, shall we? Every classy woman should have some knowledge of wine (as she should several other topics), and even if you never plan to drink a glass yourself for health, personal preference or religious reasons, it's important to know the basics as you entertain guests in your home, within a restaurant setting or simply to provide a gift for a friend. At the end of the post I'll be sharing some wine resources so you can read more at your leisure. This book (was recently named a NY Times Best Seller) has become my new favorite! I received a copy in the fall to preview and I love how it's laid out in a unique way that is both easy and fun to flip though, I highly recommend it, and it also makes for a great housewarming gift! For those who regularly drink wine and even enjoy heading to the vineyards for wine tastings, you likely have a good handle on the different notes and underton...