What We Wore: Polka Dots & Seersucker

what we wore: seersucker suit – bespoke vintage, shoes – asos, bow tie – handmade by my grandma, shirt – banana republic, dress – vintage christian lacroix via cheap thrills, platforms – jeffrey campbell (also wore them on my wedding day!), earrings – vintage from mae’s, cocktail ring – kate spade, clutch – tj maxx

A couple of weeks ago, Ro and I went to New Orleans for the wedding of a friend. I knew it would be a chic affair so the outfit planning began months ago.
On Ro: My mom found this seersucker suit at a thrift store and bought it for one of my brothers. They were not interested so she gave it to Ro. Coincidentally, it fit him beautifully. I learned how to tie a bow tie for the occasion so that he could wear one of my papa’s (my grandma made a bow tie to match every dress).

On me: I found this dress by accident at cheap thrills. Harriet (the proprietor) was showing me a full length leopard fur in the back room and I spied this adorable polka dot number. I asked about it and she said it wasn’t exactly for sale but she’d lend it to me. I tried it on and we both agreed that I had to have it. So, out of the goodness of her heart, she sold it to me.
We had a fabulous time.

Summer Essentials

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It’s been very warm and wonderful in Arkansas and it’s starting to feel like summer. Here are a few trends I’m looking forward to trying during the glorious warm days.

backless

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extra wide brim

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cropped

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nude sandals

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ultra long locks

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lots of jewels

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colorful heels

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picnics

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headwraps

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images via pinterest

What I Wore: Canadian Tux

what I wore: denim button down – vintage levi’s, cords – new york & co, blue beads – my grandmother’s, boots – michael antonio, hair tutorial via Beth Jones

Love it or Hate it: The Ballerina Bun

I noticed today that J. Mo was getting a LOT of flack about her ballerina bun. Everyone from stylist to the fug girls have something negative to say. And it’s not just about her. They are attacking the very bun itself! For shame! Do people really hate the ballerina bun? It’s one of my favorite looks ever….have I been shamelessly touting a faux pas? I almost refuse to believe that everyone hates it so much. How about you?
Even on Jennifer, I think the bun is darling. Her makeup may be a tad overdone for the big hair but that’s a very minor critique.

I don’t think I’ll ever stop flying my flag for the big ole bun. Hope that’s ok with you…

What would Kate Middleton do?

Most women I know have much respect for the newest princess. She’s incredibly lovely but in a girl next door sort of way. We had all been pulling for her to get a proposal for the past 5 years or so. She seems very warm and friendly and girlfriend has an impeccable figure.
So, let’s ask ourselves. In a situation any girl might face, what would the stunning royal do?
I want to wear a short dress but it’s too short/cold out. WWKD? Kate would opt for sheer panty hose. Duh. Knee-high black boots for more casual situations.
Gloucestershire wedding, Oct 2010Visit to St Andrews, Feb 2011Centrepoint visit, Dec 2011
It’s rainy or muddy. WWKD? Princess K would wear a hat and wellies, of course.
Sandringham, Dec 2011
I’m attending a premier/gala/red carpet. WWKD? The princess would no doubt wear her hair down and curled, a long designer confection with an hourglass figure flattering silhouette. Let’s not forget the princely accessory in a dapper tux.
Bafta gala, Hollywood, July 2011ARK Gala, June 2011
I want to look my best/something important is going on. WWKD? Turn to ISSA.
The engagement photocall, Nov 2010Royal tour of Canada, July 2011
The Boodles Boxing Ball, Jun 2008
I’m going to the wedding of a friend or relative. WWKD? Does it need to be said? Suit dress + hat/fascinator. EVERYTIME.
Zara Phillip's wedding, July 2011London wedding, Aug 2009Christmas Day, Sandringham, Dec 2011
I’ve got an incredible figure and it’s casual Friday. WWKD? Jeans my friend.

I’m on holiday at the beach. WWKD? Work out like a fiend, then white bikini – all the way.
My sister is really pretty and she’s always getting attention, people even say she looked better than I did at my wedding. WWKD? Stay mum, graciousness and grace always wins.

I’m getting married! WWKD? Follow tradition but not trends.

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It seems like everyone I know and don’t know has suddenly put me under a crazy microscope. WWKD? Act like a lady. Stay in shape. Dress to flatter your figure. And most importantly, smile. (The happiest girls are always the prettiest girls.)

A very Royal boat party, July 2011

Photos via stylist and google

How lovely to be a woman!

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Isn’t being a girl so fun sometimes? via pinterest

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My Wedding: All the Details

Here they are! All my wedding pictures. I honestly can’t believe it was four months ago. It was the most incredible experience, made possible by an incredibly wonderful man and many, many precious friends and relatives. Contact me at prettypayblog@gmail if you have  questions about vendors. xo
WHAT I WORE: My earrings and bracelet were antique Mikimoto pearls borrowed from my new mother in law. My engagement ring is a family heirloom that belonged to Robert’s great-grandmother. My wedding ring was created to match by Mark Fleischner from Lauray’s in Hot Springs. Robert’s ring is also from Lauray’s. floral wreath and bridal bouquet by Flora, wedding dress by Le Spose di Gio via Kleinfeld’s, rehearsal dinner/after wedding dress was vintage Laurence Kazar via ebay, platforms – Jeffrey Campbell via Solestruck, Alterations by Anita Turzi, Makeup: Kory Simpson, Hair: Brittany Castleberry from Teazed
EVERYTHING ELSE: my bridesmaids chose their own dresses in shades of white or cream, photography by Mallory Berry, tuxedos – Jos A. Bank, polka dot bow ties by The Tie Bar, invitations by So Inviting, Ceremony music: Quintet from the Fayetteville Jazz Collective, Reception Band: Big John Miller Band, Rentals: Eventures, Catering: Jim & Mary Cope/ Susie Stevens of Nibbles, Alcohol: Andy Plemmons from Crossover Liquor, Cake: The cake lady, Officiant – Robert Ginsburg,  Rehearsal Dinner:  Ella’s at Carnall Hall, Bridal Luncheon: Café Rue Orleans, Décor/Flowers: Susan Wright, Transportation from parking area: Jim’s Shuttle Express, Restroom Trailer: Arkansas Portable’s NW, Videographer: Abigail Jeppsen, Day of Wedding Coordinator: Tammy York of Gatsby’s Event Management

Holiday Hair

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It’s always fun to try something a little festive and different with your hair for holiday parties.

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via Pinterest

The New Neutrals

The lovely Kim Noorda in Ellery resort 2011. I love her look and I think these beautiful photos do wonders for her..
Shot by Darren McDonald. Hair by Romina Manenti, Makeup by Tiina Roivainen.
via FGR

Hello Gorgeous.

Julia Restoin-Roitfeld is my beauty ideal. I love her effortlessly chic French cool-girl look. She’s also got a really feminine-looking body (translation: she’s not a rail). She and her equally attractive boyfriend just announced they are expecting.


Images for Chinese fashion label Me & The City, Photographed by Mei Yuan Gu, Hair by Andrea, Makeup by Yooyo Keong Ming via FGR