Ask Belle Roundup April 2, 2012

Hi Belle,

I recently discovered your blog through ExtraPetite’s Blogroll and have been catching up ever since!  You mentioned that you tend to buy more jewelry such as rings, necklaces, and bracelets.  How do you store them? Do you have a picture of your storage system like you did for your closet?  

Thanks!
Annabelle

I store my baubles on top of my dresser in jewelry trays.  I like this system because I can see everything.  It also allows me to keep the rings and earrings (which get the most wear) in the top tray.

I purchased these trays at Bed, Bath & Beyond.  They were $30 for two trays and the lid.  I also added the ring tray, and may add more in the future.  If you live in D.C., you probably get the 20-percent-off coupons for the BBB in Penn Quarter all the time, so that can help you save money on the set.

Hi Belle,

I’m going to a few weddings this summer, and would prefer not to tower over my boyfriend (who’s an inch taller than me) by wearing heels. The events are all taking place during the late afternoon or early evening, and none are black tie. Do you have some ideas for event and season appropriate flats?

Thanks,
Melissa

Flats for a wedding isn’t all that unusual.  I once dated a man who was negligibly taller than I am, so I’ve worn flats to formal occasions before.  

I usually recommend glitter flats, metallic strappy sandals or a pair of kitten heels.  These shoes have all the shimmer and shine you need for evening without the height that you don’t want.  You could also try a pair of satin flats with a pouffy dress for a look that says 1950s dinner party.

Hi Belle,

I have loved wearing my pair of red denim skinnies on casual Fridays and on weekends. Unfortunately, my outfit ideas are running dry; I fear that straying from the safety of solid white on top and venturing into prints or other colors may result in retina-searing loudness. I agree with your opinion that black and red together can be a little harsh, so I’ve steered clear of that usually. Any suggestions for gracefully styling red jeans with something other than a white button-down?

Lovelovelove your blog! Rachel

Red jeans are a bold choice, indeed.  But wearing them with nothing but a white shirt makes them a bit drab.  Here are a few more ideas:

Jeans: AE Jeggings ($45)

Tops, Clockwise from Upper Left: Jacquard Dot Popover (J.Crew, $88), Chinti and Parker Heart Elbow Patch Top (Net-a-Porter, $135), Blythe Silk Blouse (J.Crew, $98), Ralph Lauren Cotton Tee ($130)

Polyvore set here.

To give your red jeans a little flare, you could consider adding a print like stripes, dots or florals.  You could also colorblock with a solid tee or blouse.  I like mint and cobalt, but you could also try fuschia or orange.  

Don’t be afraid to spice it up a bit.  After all, you’ve already committed to the red jeans.