Search Results for: label/Five Ways

Work It | 3 Ways to Wear Black & White to Work

August 4, 2016

Okay, how is it only Thursday…but at the same time, how is it Thursday already?! You know those weeks when you can never quite grasp what day it is, and everything is dragging, but still flying by? Yeah, totally confusing, but perfectly describes my week. Fortunately we’re leaving it all behind soon and heading to the beach to savor the final days of Summer break!

I get a lot of requests to show more office-appropriate looks, and today I’m excited to share some chic Work Wear styles with you! I work mostly from home now, but I have to admit, I miss getting fully dressed and putting on makeup everyday. I’m sure Mr. SP misses it, too! #yogapants

I noticed several of the pieces I fell in love with from the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale (only 4 days left!) were black and white, so I put together a 3 Ways to wear the graphic color combo to work…and virtually every piece is on sale! #bonus

Obviously you know how I feel about color, but sometimes it’s fun to let black and white do all the talking. Who am I kidding? Of course I have to throw in a pop of color or touch of leopard, too.

This first outfit is made up of amazing staples, and each piece could mix-and-match countless ways for both work and weekends, but together, they create an effortless, easy-to-wear look.

Pleated Skirt (love this wrap skirt, too) | Blouse | Statement Necklace | Patent Pumps

Watch | Bracelet | Bag | Earrings

This blouse is one of my new favorite pieces…it dresses up perfectly with skirts or slacks for work, but looks just as darling with jeans and booties. It comes in countless colors and patterns, and is a great price point.

Fit Tip: To wear as a shirt with skirts or jeans, I recommend sizing down two (I’m wearing an XXS Petite here). But order your normal size if you prefer to wear it as a tunic with leggings (see that here). My mom actually got three of the tops…two for pants, and one for leggings (see her in it here).

Pleated Skirt (love this wrap skirt, too) | Blouse | Statement Necklace | Patent Pumps

Watch | Bracelet | Bag | Earrings

The skirt fits like a glove, with a flattering a-line shape, and is sturdy enough to pair with tights in Winter. The patent heels are dead-ringers for Kate Spade (without the Kate Spade price!), and the block-heel makes them comfy for standing and walking. Two important things when working. 😉

Fit Tip: Both the skirt and shoes are true-to-size.

Pleated Skirt (love this wrap skirt, too) | Watch | Bracelet | Bag | Ring

Pleated Skirt (love this wrap skirt, too) | Blouse | Statement Necklace | Patent Pumps

Watch | Bracelet | Bag | Earrings

Dresses are always favorites for busy mornings, since they take all the indecision out of getting dressed. #oneanddone This darling shift has little details that make it both unexpected, and incredibly chic.

Earrings | Sunglasses

Fit Tip: I reviewed this dress for you a few weeks ago, and couldn’t get it off my mind, so finally caved and ordered for myself…but my usual size wasn’t available and I had to size up one. I think it’s a tad big, so I’m impatiently waiting for my size to come back in stock!

Dress (similar) | Similar Clutch | Earrings | Sunglasses

Earrings | Sunglasses

This last look might be a tad edgy for some office environments, but makes a great outfit for happy hour! #priorities You could easily tone it down by adding this blazer (on sale!), or pairing the skirt with this top instead.

Patent Sandals | Leopard Clutch | Sunglasses | Watch | Bracelet

Leopard Clutch | Watch | Bracelet | Ring

Fit Tip: I found the skirt to run big in the waist, and I’m wearing an XXS. The halter blouse is true-to-size, and I’m wearing an XS.

Patent Sandals | Leopard Clutch | Sunglasses | Watch | Bracelet

Um, what’s the story with my pinkie in this last pic?! Don’t worry, no fingers were harmed in the making of this post. 😉 Which look fits your work environment best? Or which look would you prefer to wear to work!? See more 3 Ways posts here, and more Work Wear styles here. Happy almost-Friday, lovebugs!!!

{Shop the Core Pieces}

{Shop the Accessories}

Photos by the darling & talented Mary Summers.

*The post is created in collaboration with Nordstrom, but all styles, opinions, and excessive sweating are my own. Thank you for supporting Hi Sugarplum sponsors!*

White Skirt | Three Ways

July 6, 2016

Some style posts are well-thought-out…maybe an article of clothing I fell in love with and wanted to create a post around (like these yellow espadrilles), or an idea that formed from a number of reader-requests (like most of these Five Ways, and the whole Work to Weekend series). But some style posts happen organically without my even realizing it…like this one.

I picked up this white midi skirt for our trip last month, and before I knew it, I’d worn it so many different ways in my day-to-day life, that I realized it was a wardrobe staple worth sharing.

Paired with heels and statement jewelry, it was the perfect mix of stylish and casual for speaking at the Bloom Conference in May. I tied the gingham shirt at the waist for a bit more panache.

Gingham Shirt | Similar Necklace | Hoop Earrings

For a second look, I went with a classic Summer medley of red, white and blue. Our founding fathers really knew their color combos, right?! This was after a day on the water, so the hat disguised my lake hair, and the lightweight off-the-shoulder top and espadrilles made it look like I’d given the look a lot more effort than I really had.

When Mr. SP is taking the photos, there’s usually a lot of laughing…hence the big mouth and spread nostrils.

Off-the-Shoulder Top (long sleeve version here) | Straw Hat | Sunglasses | Hoop Earrings

Some days it’s too hot even for shorts, so I reach for a breezy skirt like this one…and it doesn’t get much easier than a muscle tank and sneakers. Super casual, definitely comfortable, but still full of style.

Playing with that whole ‘Power of Three’ rule, the addition of tassel bracelets and a hat elevate the look even more.

Sugarplum Style Tip: Knotting your tee or popping the collar gives your outfit a dash of pizzazz.

I could have kept going with more outfits…in fact, I wore the skirt on our trip, and again for a recent Date Night…so I’m sure you’ll be seeing a lot of it. Which was your favorite look of the three? See more Summer Style here, and find all my Five Ways posts here.

{Shop More White Skirts}

{Shop These Outfits}

{5 Ways} White Jeans in Winter

January 29, 2016

Cheers to Friday! What plans do you have this weekend? Since I have a fun houseguest coming next week, my goal is to make our guest room look less like a depressing furniture graveyard, and more like a halfway acceptable sleeping quarter. I see a trip to HomeGoods in my future!

For today’s Friday Fashion, I’m sharing how I wear white jeans in Winter. #gasp #what? #emilypostcalled But before you let rules and etiquette talk you out of it, let me show you
{Five Ways} to rock those winter whites.

Just as with transitioning your dresses from season to season, the same rules apply for whites…as long as they aren’t made of seasonal fabric like linen or eyelet, then you’re good to go all year long. I did a similar {Five Ways} for Fall a few years ago, but let’s take a look at styling those white jeans for colder, Winter days.

Sidenote: These are real-life outfits I wore gadding about over the past month, and had Mr. SP snap pics wherever we were.

ONE | Just as in Summer, every color appears more crisp when paired with white in Winter. And although I love bright colors, one of my favorite cold-weather combos is camel and white.

Camel Peacoat (similar on sale!) | Leopard Scarf | White Jeans
Booties | Plaid Bag | Sunglasses

Style Tip: Layer similar hues of a single color for a smart, timeless look.

TWO | Even though brighter colors may lean towards warmer months, the fabrics are what say Winter…like a wool scarf and suede booties.

Tunic Sweater (similar) | Scarf | White Jeans
Suede Tassel-Tie Booties | Hat | Sunglasses

Style Tip: Scarf too short or bulky to tie around your neck? Drape it for a splash of color.

Tunic Sweater (similar) | Scarf | White Jeans
Suede Tassel-Tie Booties | Hat | Sunglasses Earrings

THREE | Combining black and white never goes out of style, or season.

Black Cardi-Wrap | Striped Top | Plaid Scarf | White Jeans | Rainboots

Sunglasses | Beanie Hat | Earrings

Black Cardi-Wrap | Striped Top | Plaid Scarf | White Jeans | Rainboots

Sunglasses | Beanie Hat | Earrings

Style Tip: Hats are even easier to pull off this time of year, so don’t be afraid to use them in your outfit…and cover up ~~four~~ three-day hair!

One-Button Cardi Wrap | Striped Top | Plaid Scarf | White Jeans | Rainboots

Sunglasses | Beanie Hat | Earrings

FOUR | Pairing same-color elements is a modern, muted way of layering, as long as the fabrics aren’t too similar, or the lines identical. In this case, I layered a quilted vest over a wool turtleneck. It would be extra-chic with just the hat and taupe boots, but I added the stripe and scarf for more color and warmth.

Style Tip: Add an extra element to your outfit by layering a second (or third!) pattern, and pulling up the sleeves a bit to reveal more of it.

FIVE | Forget just Fridays, white is my sneaky way of making jeans work-appropriate any day of the week.

Turtleneck Sweater (similar on sale!) | Similar Navy Blazer | Tassel Bead Necklace

White Jeans | Leopard Heels | Sunglasses | Similar Clutch

Style Tip: If the weather allows, use extra layers like striped tees, blazers and scarves to stay warm, instead of always reaching for the same coat.

Turtleneck Sweater (similar on sale!) | Similar Navy Blazer | Tassel Bead Necklace

White Jeans | Leopard Heels | Sunglasses | Similar Clutch

You could easily swap traditional denim in any of these outfits, but the pop of white is just so crisp and unexpected this time of year…not to mention, extends your wardrobe by keeping more pieces in play year-round.

Are you still working your white jeans? Which of these looks is your favorite? Chances are, you have similar pieces in your own closet, so I hope this post has inspired some new looks for you. Happy weekend, lovebugs!

See more {5 Ways} posts here.

{Best of 2015} Five Ways

January 4, 2016

Is there anything better than Winter Break?! No school or schedules, lots of food and family, and the opportunity to just snuggle down. But while I’m not thrilled to see the break come to an end tomorrow, I am excited for all that lies ahead. My calendar is already filling up with fun ideas and collaborations, and I can’t wait to share them with you!

Last week I recapped the best of my 2015 Style Series, but left off one of the biggest…{Five Ways}. Those posts, where I share multiple ways to wear and style particular items, are one of my favorites to create, but also the most time-consuming, so I felt they deserved a post of their own.

I use the term {Five Ways} loosely, as some of them are actually {Three Ways}…you know, because of that whole time-consuming part. These were the most popular of 2015…

Winter Neutrals | 3 Ways

Maxi Dress | 5 Ways

Easy Fall Style | 5 Ways

Transition to Fall | 5 Ways

Dressed Up Denim | 3 Ways

3 Ways | Sweater Dress

Floral Midi Skirts | 5 Ways

Striped Dress | 3 Ways

Transition to Spring | 5 Ways

Plaid Shirtdress | 4 Ways

A giant *thank you* to Mr. SP for patiently shooting most of these looks! He’s usually left waiting while I race back inside to change clothes…five times! Do you have any {Five Ways} requests for this year? I’ve been brainstorming new ones…so far I’m thinking leopard, winter whites, layering and puffer vests. Any others you’d like to see? Are you back to back to your regular schedule today, or do you start tomorrow like us? Either way, I hope it’s a smooth transition!

{More Best of 2015 posts}

{5 Ways} Easy Fall Style

November 6, 2015

Cheers to Friday, friends! Thanks so much for the kind words and encouragement this week on the {One Room Challenge} drama, and yesterday’s Monogram Mania post. I loved all your ideas and comments!

Last month I shared {5 Ways} to Transition to Early Fall…you know, when the calendar says ‘Fall’, but the temperatures say ‘Still Summer, Sucker!’ Well, Fall took her sweet time coming to Texas, but she’s officially here…and here to stay! Hopefully. It’s time to pack away the sandals and sundresses, and pull out the boots and scarves!

So today I’m sharing another {5 Ways} for Fall, but this time it’s full-fledged Fall. No in-between. Just simple, easy to assemble outfits that are perfect for cool days and chilly nights. And make sure you check out the end of the post for an exclusive discount code for all my scarves and accessories!

Hi Sugarplum | {5 Ways} Transition to Early Fall

ONE | Layers are king this time of year, and I love piling them on. That’s what I love most about vests, they allow for an extra layer, but not the accompanying bulk under your jacket.

Blanket scarves can be bulky around the neck, so I stick with a streamlined top when wearing them. If it gets to be too much (or you plan to eat!), tuck the scarf in your bag with a bit peeking out.

TWO | I continue to wear white well past Labor Day (year-round in fact…see my {5 Ways} White Jeans post here), but I do reach for the clothes in heavier fabrics, or add another layer like a jean or military jacket. I prefer a light, neutral boot with white pants for a more seamless flow from leg to foot.

THREE | Boots are a given this time of year, but flats and loafers are also a chic alternative. Especially when the weather allows you to go sockless. The mohair leopard cuff adds a great subtle touch of pattern, and I seem to be reaching for it daily.

Sweater | White Oxford | Infinity Plaid Scarf | Dark Jeans
Sunglasses | Leather Bag (similar under $50)

Infinity Plaid Scarf | Leopard Cuff | Watch

FOUR | Once you add rainboots, especially fun ones, to your wardrobe, you’ll welcome wet days! Mine are a Look for Less combination, and the pink makes me happy every time I wear them.

Hi Sugarplum | {5 Ways} Fall Outfits
Black Jeans | Gingham Shirt (similar) | Stripe Scarf | Fleece Vest (similar) | Hat
Sunglasses | Striped Bag | Boot Socks | Rainboots

Hi Sugarplum | {5 Ways} Fall Outfits

Hi Sugarplum | {5 Ways} Fall Outfits
Black Jeans | Gingham Shirt (similar) | Fleece Vest (similar) | Hat
Sunglasses | Striped Bag | Boot Socks | Rainboots

Hi Sugarplum | {5 Ways} Fall Outfits
Black Jeans | Boot Socks | Rainboots

Hi Sugarplum | {5 Ways} Fall Outfits

Hi Sugarplum | {5 Ways} Fall Outfits
Black Jeans | Gingham Shirt (similar) | Fleece Vest (similar)
Hat | Sunglasses | Stripe Scarf

FIVE | Not everyday requires lots of layers or a jacket, and a colorful scarf can be all the statement you need.

These lace-up booties surprised me with how cute they look paired with jeans, but also how insanely comfortable they are! They are light as a feather, with so much cushion and arch support. Seriously, if you’ve got travels this season…these are the shoes you want to be walking in! (That’s for you, Carolyn! Get these for Italy!!)

Jeans | Lace-Up Booties c/o

Did you notice that each outfit had several items from my Fall Essential Seven? They really are my go-to’s for building outfits this time of year. Chances are, you have similar items in your closet, so I hope this inspires a few new combinations for you! Which is your favorite?

Now for more fun…my friends at Accessory Concierge know I’m a huge fan, so in the spirit of Fall and Thanksgiving, they are offering you lucky ducks an exclusive 20% off! Sitewide! That means you can fill your online cart to your heart’s content (including my favorite leopard cuff and new bag charm), then pop in SUGARPLUMSALE as your promo code, and they’ll knock 20% off your total. #howyoulikethemapples

To get you started, I rounded up all my favorite accessories and scarves from their shop. Code ends at midnight Sunday…happy weekend, lovebugs!

{Shop Favorite Accessories}

{Shop Favorite Scarves}

See more {5 Ways} posts here.