12 No-Fail Outfit Combos for Date Night

February 12, 2016 Julien Garman

I'll admit, I've gone a bit gaga this Valentine's season (it really is a season, isn't it?) But here's why: Because days like Valentine's Day can STRESS ME OUT. I always end up deciding on an outfit at the very last minute (NEVER works) and end up ruining my mascara in a puddle of tears sitting on the floor of my closet. Not cute.

That's why I share a ton of outfit ideas...so you don't have to be a nut case like me and stress out about what to wear! And if I'm feeling this way, maybe you are too? Sound off in the comments if I'm wrong, but I find myself to be highly normal (most of the time!)

In case you missed any, I've included 12 no-fail outfit ideas for Valentine's Day or any date night, really. (PS if you're looking for fun things to do on Valentine's day, check out my post on 10 Date Ideas for Valentine's Day!)

Statement dress + white pumps + chunky jewelry (see full outfit post here!)

Burgundy Dress, Faux Fur Coat + Pumps (see full outfit post here!)

Burgundy skirt +turtleneck + platform boots (see full outfit post here!)

Sweater dress + skinny scarf + fringe boots (see full outfit post here!)

Tweed Dress + chunky necklace + boots (see full outfit post here!)

Blush dress + loafers + oversized clutch (see full outfit post here!)

Black + white dress + leather belt + black pumps (see full outfit post here!)

Pink faux fur vest + silk blouse + jeans (full outfit coming soon!)

Blush dress + floral clutch + grey booties (see full outfit post here!)

Midi skirt + bold cardigan + boots + statement necklace (see full outfit post here!)

Slip dress + leather jacket + studded pumps (see full outfit post here!)

High-slit skirt + bold t-shirt + statement lip (see full outfit post here!)

Ksenia Schnaider // When You Know

December 16, 2015 Julien Garman

When you know, you know.

That’s how I felt when I was picking out my wedding dress years ago. I’d had this idea in my head of what I wanted, what I KNEW would look killer on me. It would be long and a-line…but have a few intricate details to make it stand out - lace or a bit of tulle…but not cheesy. Romantic, whimsical…so when I tried on the A-line gown with a tulle, sweetheart neckline with a flowing skirt that had pretty tulle flowers, I knew it was the one.

I felt that way when I first spotted this dress on The Odivo website. The shape, the length, the colors…I knew it would be the prettiest dress ever. And I was right.

I love who I become in this dress. All of a sudden, I’m smiling at strangers and twirling down the sidewalk. I’m sitting at the edge of a water fountain at CityCenter, drawing hearts in the water. I’m a whirlwind of color (which is not usually the case for me!) When color is done right, I can’t help but want to wear it to death! The full skirt and high waist add just the right touch of girliness while the high neckline and vibrant color palette add the perfect amount of modern elegance.

So I’d like to make a toast - to Ksenia Schnaider, you brilliant woman, you! This dress has given me hope in color once again and I owe you everything for making me feel the way I do in this dress. And to The Odivo, you smart cookies. The brands you carry and the way you promote them give me all the happy feels. I can feel your passion through the interwebs. And lastly, my dear friend, Jen, who always captures moments so perfectly.

Wearing Ksenia Schnaider dress via The Odivo c/o (sold out but this shorter version is identical!) Finders Keepers pumps (similar), Sophie Blake cuff

Find the Light

November 4, 2015 Julien Garman

There’s something truly magical about finding the right light. Sometimes in the morning, I’ll legit stop on my way to work and admire the way shadows are cast or the way the sun looks peeking out from behind a building. Those moments inspire me.

I think the same can be said about style. Sometimes we find our light, something that brings us happiness, in the most unexpected places. For me, a huge light in my life is supporting small businesses. Are things more expensive? Usually. But are they pieces I find myself reaching for over and over again? Most definitely.

I’m proud to share today’s post because each item is from a small businesses. The skirt is made by a local designer, Erika Schrieber. I bought this dress for my birthday and snagged up this skirt (that I’ve been eyeing FOREVER) of hers when it went on sale on Stylecable. The zipper detail is so insanely cute and adds a bit of edginess to the whole look.

The top is by Ksenia Schnaider, one of the coolest designers I’ve found. It’s from a new-to-me site, ODIVO, that carries a ton of outrageously gorgeous (and somewhat underground) brands. I’m dying over this dress!

My necklace is from one of my favorite jewelry designers, Sophie Blake. Not only is she one of the sweetest, most talented women I’ve ever met, but her pieces are all insanely cool. She’s one of the only designers where I love each and every single piece in her collection. My hubby got this necklace for my birthday (my exact instructions were: Go to Sophie Blake, tell her you’re my husband and she’ll tell you everything I love.) That’s how wonderful she is. She's celebrating her one year anniversary in her pop-up at Mosaic District this Saturday so be sure to stop in and check it out (you KNOW I will!)

Last but certainly not least, these super fun Veja trainers from Anthom. I was devastated when Anthom left the DC area for the big apple, but thanks to their inspiring Instagram account, I spotted these beauties and called their store immediately. My size was in stock and they sent them out right away. I’ve been on the hunt for a pair of white trainers and the marble detail on these adds such a cool touch to the closet staple.