What does “less is more” mean exactly? Well, it simply means sometimes something simple is better than something overly complicated.

Today fashion is either under executed where no effort or thought goes into ones beauty, style and accessories or on the fair opposite side of the spectrum you’ll find an individual wearing a little of everything from their closet. I suppose the question is how does someone seeking a classic, yet simple appearance go about just that? Don’t over think it. Fashion is about creating a persona that if you where to walk into a room and not say a word, you’d leave being memorable based on your overall presence. Growing up I admired not only the style from the 1950s I also appreciated the simple vogue from European designers such as Dior, Chanel and Yves Saint Laurent.

“Remember classy doesn’t mean boring or without personality. Dressing classy means dressing elegant and sophisticated. It’s also timeless and elegant.”

While I was styling this stunning Maggy London midi dress with side slit, an urge to not over complicate the overall look with large pieces of jewelry came to mind. I decided to keep it as simple as I possible with just adding a gold victorian slide bracelet, matching earrings paired with a vintage leather clutch. I debated on two shoe options: a plain black leather pump by Vince Camuto or my cherished Kate Spade New York “Laurette” d’orsay pumps (seen above). In this case the black leather pump would have been too simple. When wearing a midi dress with a side slit it is important you provide some detail in the footwear to draw the eye upward.

If you are ever in need of a second opinion on styling an outfit, please feel free to reach out to me through my Instagram account by sending me a direct message. With a decade of retail merchandising and styling experience I am confident we’ll create an outfit that leaves others wanting more.
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Maggy London Midi Dress. Gold Victorian Slide Bracelet (similar here).
Gold Rope Earrings (similar here & here). Vintage Leather Clutch (similar here in patent). Kate Spade New York “Laurette” d’orsay Pumps. Maybelline Super Stay Lipstick, Ground Breaker. Cover FX Power Play Foundation. Photography c/o rf_fisher_photography.

The most essential experience created by architecture is in its structure. Architecture presents the drama of construction silenced into matter, space and light. Ultimately, architecture is the art of design and proportion.

Design is a part of everyone’s life, we live, construct and create life in the art of architecture. The aspects of all design effect our lives, however the similarities to architecture and fashion, as I believe are many. Both have a grace or in better terms “stance”.

When an architect is in the thought plane, they often will sketch their design on paper from a vision created; the same goes for a fashion designer. Having experienced the avant garde of the design world I find it true that design is functional and regarded far from plain or uninteresting. Regardless of its appeal to a certain audience, buildings and clothing are both designed by someone. Decisions have been made regarding the proportions, material selections, and use.During this year’s AIA San Francisco Design Awards held at the War Memorial Theater inside the historical Green Room, Bay Area individuals and organizations were recognized for their outstanding achievements in Architecture and design. The program serves to inform the public of the scope and value of architectural practice.

A few highlighted award honorees were Skidmore, Owings & Merrill LLP for the Monterey Conference Center, The Amador Apartments in Oakland by jones | haydu and the historic preservation of the Lodge at the Presidio with Architectural Resources Group. For the entire list of winners please click here.

Design of all mediums is something we all can appreciate. Whether it is fashion, architecture, art, graphic design, etc., we can cross-pollinate almost anything to create something that is both functional and aesthetically pleasing. Images c/o Dirk Wyse Photography

This past weekend I had the opportunity to attend a brilliant musical performance in Oakland and couldn’t resist wearing this white satin sheath by Lady Vintage London. An elegant dress from their bridal collection that is absolutely beautiful for all occasions.

With the weather rather unpredictable these past weeks, I thought it be best to top my shoulders with my namesakes’ label less mint wool coat. Having seen my grandmother in several images wearing this same coat I felt a warmth that was beautifully noted.

An admirer of glitz and glamour, as many of you already know. I couldn’t resist pairing such a dress with a shimmering pearl embossed bracelet and matching choker. Due to the set not having identical earrings I substituted a rhinestone that had similar attributes. The contrasting textures, shades and shapes brilliantly complemented the ivory beaded scallop hinged handbag in-hand. Lady Vintage London Bridal Dress. Vintage Mint Wool Coat (Similar here). Rhinestone Crawler (similar here). Beauty c/o Belleci Cosmetics, OPI ‘Big Apple Red‘ Nail Polish. MAC ‘Chili‘ Matte Lipsticks. Brian Atwood Patent Pumps. Photography by rf_fisher_photography.