What does one wear to the book launch of “Unlock My Style” by uber-fashion blogger Nikki from Styling You, when one is gaining a bit of a reputation as a “fashion blogger” herself?
(An aside: can you tell I’m still not 100% comfortable with this label?! It got me to thinking – if you have to be fashionable to be a fashion blogger, does that mean you have to be beautiful to be a beauty blogger? Or homely to be a home blogger?! LOL)
It was quite the dilemma, and that was what confronted me last Friday night.
After considering all the options, I had 3 outfits in mind. Come to think of it, all 3 were based on Nikki’s fashion philosophy (as she shared on the night) – make sure you have the basics and you can then style them up any way you like with the “show pony” pieces.
Unlock my Style Option #1
The basics: pretty much everything. The “show pony” that lifted it to another level? The statement beads.
This was probably my first choice but then I thought: I definitely want to wear this ensemble to Problogger in 3 weeks time (and heaven forbid I wear the same outfit twice – silly I know!). Also, it involves wearing a pair of heels and I just had a sneaking suspicion that wouldn’t be a good idea (as it turned out, I was right, we did a lot of standing and hob-nobbing on the night).
Unlock my Style Option #2
This fitted monochrome dress is a bit of a “show pony”, so I would probably have paired it with the same nude heels and jacket basics.
But again – heels? And would it be too dressy?!
As it turned out, there were plenty of folk glammed up in sequins and the like. To be perfectly honest, I wish I *had* gone with this choice; perhaps I erred on the side of caution, and went a bit too casual. (Should have taken my own advice and made the most of an occasion to dress up!).
Still, I like what I did end up wearing, which was:
Unlock my Style #3
The basics: my new black jeans (hurrah! I needed a smaller size!) with ankle boots. The “show pony”: this gorgeous ombre jumper which I fell in love with at DFO a couple of weeks ago – AND it was reduced from $90 to $30. I added some sparkly earrings for a bit of bling and as a nod to the fact it was indeed a glamourous night-time occasion.
I chose this outfit because the chances of it actually being cold enough to wear it to Problogger (even though it’s just 2 weeks away) are about 10% or less, so I figured I may as well enjoy it now!
Of course, although the forecast was for just 11 degrees, it was quite a bit warmer and I felt a bit too hot at times. I didn’t want to take the jumper off because it would have ruined the whole look – and maybe I hadn’t ironed the shirt underneath either 😉 .
Did I buy Nikki’s book – well that’s just a silly question! And would you believe, my ensemble perfectly complemented the goodie bags that came with purchase?! I received more than a few comments on how I was rocking at (accidental) colour coordination!
So how did I end up choosing my outfit for such an auspicious occasion? Apart from the elimination process I’ve detailed above, I also stopped trying to predict what others would wear and trying to impress them. I wore what I knew I liked, that felt comfortable, and would truly reflect my style.
I’m sure Nikki herself would approve of this 😉 !
Have you managed to get along to any of the “Unlock your Style” events – or are you planning to buy the book?!
Linking up with Redcliffe Style for 30 Plus Style & Beauty.
That pink ombre rocks! I’m going to confess. I am a dreadful cook and an even worse dresser so I normally avoid food and fashion blogs like the plague, but I really like your writing style so I make an exception for yours. LOL. Maybe I might learn a thing or two! And can’t wait to hear about Problogger. I’ve made a pact with a friend and fellow blogger that we re going to go next year so I am greedily lapping up everyone’s experiences and tips this year.
Thank you for the lovely compliment, you’ve made my day! When I get insecure about calling myself a fashion blogger, I remind myself that I am providing a very REAL alternative for others – fashion from the real world – where there’s not a designer label to be seen 😉
Honestly, there is so much to be said for attainability and relatability. You offer both.
Oh man I can see your predicament! I’ll be going to tonight’s Melbourne event and I was wondering what to wear ALL WEEK! Plus the added part where I have to figure out if I would be taking the train in or drive in – all that jazz. I’m still tossing up between my black dress with lace insert or royal blue dress. And then I bet you I’ll end up wearing my black sweater with the lace back and a skirt…or pants. See what I mean???
They all sound gorgeous! Though a pop of colour will help you stand out in the event photos 😉 … can’t wait to see what you choose!
Oh I hope she announces Adelaide soon. I love that jumper and such great buy. I totally wouldn’t know what to wear. xx
Pretty sure there is an Adelaide visit in the works Jo 🙂
Loved your look! But I liked all of them and actually thought you’d choose the first one as I was reading through! Can’t wait to catch up with you at PB Event 🙂
I know – it will be great to meet you IRL at last Jo!
I have heard and seen so much about this ruddy book clearly I am going to have to buy it xxx
Or borrow it off somebody (sssh don’t tell Nikki I said that)! It is a great read 🙂
I adore the show pony on you Janet – it show off your cracking figure! xx
Oh wow, thanks Bev!
I have a similar grey jacket to the one you’re wearing in the top photo. I’ll imitate your style (since I have none) and pack it for P.B.! x
We can be twins! 😉
I love all of those outfits on you Janet!
I had so much fun at the event. You sure did match the colour scheme. I hadn’t even thought of that 🙂
Sorry, I meant to say, I know what you mean about Fashion blogger. I have never thought of myself that way because I’m not ‘fashion’. I have only recently embraced that I am a style blogger and I think that works for me. Everyone has their own style, so everyone has it
Like Rachel I am probably more of a style blogger. A personal style blogger. But yes, I very much feel that I have a sort of obligation to look the goods when I am out and about even here where few people know what I am doing back there on that terrace…
Alex – Funky Jungle