Mar 29, 2017
Today I’m announcing something that I honestly never imagined would happen in my wildest dreams – the launch of a product line.
But thanks to all of YOU for continuously pushing me out of my comfort zone, it’s a reality that I’m still pinching myself about!
The GYPO Silk Scarf Collection launched today. If you’re new around here, this whole project was kicked off late last year in response to requests to create our very own GYPO product line. After sending out a survey asking you for details of what exactly it would look like, it was decided that our first products would be a line of silk scarves.
We commissioned a Brooklyn-based female artist to create watercolor designs and put them out to a vote by all of you. These top three vote getters have now been turned into our first silk scarf line.
Each design has been made into two sizes – a long 40″ x 70″ rectangular scarf in a lightweight gauzy silk habotai and a square 20″ x 20″ bandana scarf in luxurious silk charmeuse.
There is so much love and intention woven into every inch of these scarves. We made conscious decisions about everything – from the female artist who created them to the high quality materials and manufacturing in the US. Even our eco-friendly packaging is from a woman owned business. But what’s nearest and dearest to my heart is that we’ll be donating a portion of profits to Genesis Women’s Shelter and Support right here in Dallas. Genesis is an amazing organization that provides women and children in domestic violence situations a path to lead an independent and safe life.
Simply put, these scarves are wearable art that supports a great cause – to make a difference in the lives of women in the US. Today I’m showing you six different ways to style the scarves in the GYPO Collection.
1. Wear it as a Wrap
Long scarves have versatility as a scarf, wrap, shawl and even a swim cover up! To master this look, simply unfold the rectangular scarf to it’s full length and drape it over your shoulders.
[Green Long Rectangular Scarf]
2. Loose and Flowy
This classic will never go out of style. Fold your rectangular scarf accordion style along the long edge. Starting in the front of your neck, criss cross the ends behind your head, then bring them forward. Pull down to adjust the loop on the front of your neck.
[Pink Long Rectangular Scarf]
3. The Artist Knot
Fold scarf accordion style then place around the back of your neck with both ends hanging in the front. Grab both ends and tie into a low, loose knot.
[Blue Long Rectangular Scarf]
4. Traditional Neck Scarf
So French, so chic and so on trend for spring! Fold a square bandana scarf in half from corner to corner. Starting at the corner of the triangle, begin rolling it up in about a three inch width. Place around your neck and tie the ends off to the side in a single knot.
[Pink Silk Bandana Scarf]
5. On Your Wrist
Arm candy doesn’t have to be just jewelry! Using the same fold as the neck scarf, lay the folded scarf flat on the top of your wrist, criss cross the ends behind your wrist and bring them to the front. Tie a small knot on top of wrist. (Tip: It’s helpful to have someone else tie the knot for you!)
[Green Silk Bandana Scarf]
6. On Your Purse
Add a little color and pattern to your outfit by tying your scarf to the handle of your purse or tote bag. One simple big knot is all you need.
[Blue Silk Bandana Scarf]
You can use these styling ideas for any long or square scarf but if you feel so inclined, I would greatly appreciate your support in this labor of love. These silk scarves are an instant classic that you can wear season after season. Our pricing has been set fairly for a US-made silk scarf, while still allowing us to cover our costs and provide a donation to Genesis Women’s Shelter.
Because they are manufactured in small batches, quantities are limited. Visit gypocollection.com to place your order. (Orders ship in 2-3 business days via USPS first class mail and are currently limited to the 48 contiguous US states)
It’s Your Turn: How will you be wearing scarves this spring? Tell us in the comments!
I Feel Pretty Link Up
It’s the day of the week at GYPO where we celebrate what makes us feel pretty. Whether it’s a new outfit, hairstyle, or makeup, the I Feel Pretty link up is about anything and everything that makes your life prettier. Even if you’re not a blogger, you can still play along. Just tell me what made you feel pretty this week in the comments.
Getting my pretty on with Style Elixir, Sheaffer Told Me To, The Pleated Poppy, Jo Lynne Shane, and A Little Bit of Everything.
There are just a few simple rules:
1. Follow GYPO. (Bloglovin‘, Facebook, Instagram or Pinterest)
2. Link up your pretty post.
3. Link back to GYPO (using the button above or your own link).
4. Visit other pretties.
Mar 27, 2017
Welcome to another edition of SAHMonday – weekly outfit inspiration just for the stay at home and work from home moms of the world (like me!) who aren’t heading out of the house on Monday morning. You can check out the other outfits in this series here.
These outfits are perfect for when you want to feel comfortable, yet put together, so that you can face the day and any errands you may need to run. Plus, most of these outfit formulas can be pulled straight from your closet. If you don’t have my exact pieces, that’s ok. Just use one of the substitutions that I recommend.
Olive, Navy and Rose Gold
I used to be all about bright colors but over the past few years, my wardrobe has become more and more neutral. I just love how versatile neutrals are – you can pair them all up together, add a fun accessory and you’re good to go! One of the color combinations we are styling in the Spring 2017 GYPO Style Challenge is olive and navy. Registration is now open if you’d like to join me and have a new spring outfit idea sent to your inbox daily! Get the details here.
Today I paired up two basics – my navy tee and an olive open cardigan, then added in two trends – frayed hem jeans and rose gold huarache sandals, for a super comfortable, yet put-together casual outfit that works for my daily life. Just one simple accessory like this multi-color wrap bracelet pulls it all together.
Olive Cardigan + Navy Tee + Frayed Hem Jeans + Gold Huaraches
[Olive Cardigan: Same/Navy Tee: Similar/Jeans: Same/Wrap Bracelet: Same/Huaraches: Same]
Substitutions and Shopping Options:
Olive Cardigan: Any neutral cardigan or jacket (or skip the top layer). Shopping Options: 1/2/3
Navy Tee: Any neutral tee, tank or top. Shopping Options: 1/2/3
Frayed Hem Jeans: Any jeans or chinos. Shopping Options: 1/2/3
Gold Huaraches: Any metallic flats, sandals or sneakers. Shopping Options: 1/2/3
Show me YOUR SAHMonday outfit! Tag me on Instagram and use the hashtag #SAHMonday.
Mar 24, 2017
TGIF Pretties and welcome to another edition of Friday Favorites! If you’re new around here, Alison’s Friday Favorites is a weekly list of anything that makes my life a little easier, prettier or happier. Here are a few things that checked those boxes this week.
Favorite #1 – Date Night Outfit
Spring in Texas means one thing – dinner on a patio! Craig was out of town again last week so when he got back this weekend, we quickly planned a date night. The weather was gorgeous so we had our first official patio dinner date of the year. I wore my new striped bell sleeved top with my frayed hem jeans. Seriously though, I need a striped shirt intervention. This is like the 20th one I’ve bought in the past few years (but it was only $18). #thosebellsleevesgotme
I also wore my new rose gold huarache sandals which are incredibly comfy and a totally 80’s throwback but one that I actually love. Sizing Info: Top runs a little big (I’m wearing XS), jeans are true to size.
[Bell Sleeved Top: Same/Frayed Hem Jeans: Same/Tassel Necklace: Same/Huarache Sandals: Same]
Favorite #2 – Floral Bomber: Found!
[Floral Bomber Jacket: Same]
Ever since I decided to put a floral bomber jacket on the Spring 2017 GYPO Style Challenge shopping list, I’ve been on the lookout for the perfect one. All this time, I thought I wanted one with a dark background. Imagine my surprise when I fell for this lighter one! I think it will look perfect with blush jeans and that black tassel zipper pull had me at hello. Can’t wait to pair this up in my spring outfits! Sizing Info: Jacket runs a size small. I bought a medium.
Favorite #3 – Mrs. Meyer’s
There’s something about spring that turns me into a cleaning machine (don’t worry, this phenomenon doesn’t happen at other times of the year) Mrs. Meyer’s Clean Day products just smell like spring to me. That radish scent is mesmerizing but so is basil and lavender and lemon verbena. How else could I explain sniffing the kitchen counters that I’m finding excuses to spray a few times a day? (Psst – If you’re a fan of Mrs. Meyer’s too, now’s a great time to stock up with this buy one, get one 50% off)
Favorite #4 – Spring Challenge Now Open!
IT’S FINALLY HERE! Registration for the Spring 2017 GYPO Style Challenge is now open. You get a shopping list of spring trends and classic basics plus 24 days of outfit ideas created from the pieces on the list. The sooner you sign up, the more time you’ll have to get your pieces in place before we start styling these outfits on April 3rd. It’s the perfect way to get the tools, resources to easily update your wardrobe for spring! The best part? It’s just $39. Get your shopping list and your first 10 days of outfit ideas immediately HERE.
It’s Your Turn: What are you loving this Friday?
Mar 22, 2017
OK, by now you know that I’m one of the biggest believers in NOT reinventing your wardrobe every season. Honestly once you have the right basics in place, it should be as easy as adding in a few new trends each season to freshen things up a bit. Not only do you make the most of what you have but you also don’t have to break the bank.
Today I’m showing you seven simple ways you can swap your classic basics for some trendier updates.
Seven Simple Swaps to Update Your Wardrobe for Spring
1. White T-shirt
It’s all about the details! Your classic white t-shirt is getting lots of upgrades for spring 2017 including twist fronts, criss cross designs, peplums, ruffles and more. What an easy way to try a trend!
2. Spring Scarf
While this rectangular pastel scarf will always be around, it’s chic little sister, the neck scarf is what’s hot for spring. If wearing it on your neck isn’t for you, try tying it to your wrist or purse handle to add pattern to your outfit.
3. Lightened Up Jeans
Dark wash skinnies will forever be my favorite for their ability to flatter all body types. But denim is lightening up for spring 2017. Try a pair with frayed hems to be totally on trend!
4. Neutral Flats
Nude ballet flats will always be around. Continue wearing them or add in this lace up version to spice up your collection.
5. Colored Denim
Yes, white jeans have now officially been promoted to a classic basic for their year round ability to always look chic and stylish. But spring calls for color and a fun pair of blush jeans is where it’s at.
6. Printed Jacket
Printed sweaters are a great lightweight way to add pattern on spring days. If you’re feeling a little more daring though, swap in one of spring 2017’s hottest trends, the floral bomber jacket.
7. Metallic Sandals
Your basic gold thong sandal just got an upgrade. Try two trends in one with these updated rose gold huarache sandals.
It’s Your Turn: Which on trend updates will you be adding to your spring wardrobe? Share them in the comments!
Spring Challenge News and Giveaway
I’ve recently gotten a lot of new subscribers so figured it’s about time that I give out a detailed overview of exactly what the GYPO Style Challenge is all about. I started the first challenge in Spring of 2014 based upon feedback from a reader survey. You asked me to give you a shopping list of classic basics and seasonal trends that you could shop for on your own. After putting together that first list, I took it one step further to create mix and match outfit ideas from the pieces on that list. And the first capsule wardrobe was born!
Since then, nearly 10,000 women in 20 different countries have participated in a Style Challenge.
What it Is:
You’ve probably seen a lot of capsule wardrobe programs popping up lately but the GYPO Style Challenge is the first and original style challenge. You may be asking why pay for something you can find online for free. Well, I have the answer to that, none of those free programs provide you with as much support, detailed instructions and bonuses as the Style Challenge.
It’s called a challenge only because it “challenges” you to get out of your comfort zone to try new styles – there’s no competition!
Step 1: You get a shopping list of classic basics and seasonal trends with everything you need to create a mix and match capsule wardrobe. You have 10 days to get all of the pieces on the list. You’re free to spend as much or as little as you want but most women shop their closets first! I also provide you with a robust directory of online shopping links from stores you love.
Step 2: After those pieces are in place, you’ll get a daily outfit e-mail each day for three weeks showing you how to pair your pieces up into on-trend spring looks that work for your daily life. Imagine waking up every day and knowing EXACTLY what to wear! It makes getting dressed a no-brainer.
Step 3: Show off your new style in our private Facebook group. This is honestly the best part of the challenge! Thousands of women have made new real life friends and explored style in this safe, supportive community of like minded women. We share shopping tips, fit advice and our own unique takes on the daily outfits. You will get SO much inspiration just from being in this group.
More Benefits:
Style Challenge Members Only Site – The original Style Challenge is the only one that includes access to the Style Challenges membership site. It’s a handy directory of resources and every Style Challenge you’ve ever purchased all in one place!
Recommended Items Directory – Inside the membership site is an online evergreen catalog of updated shopping links at a variety of price points to the stores you love most. This challenge’s Recommended Items Directory has more trend options than ever before. You’ll be able to shop more classic “basics” or substitute the trendier item for each piece on the list. These links are updated throughout the season so you always have resources for items to buy.
Daily Style Tips – Included with each outfit is a daily style tip to give you easy to implement tips on your style journey.
New for this Challenge!
If you’ve done the GYPO Style Challenge in the past, here are some new features you can expect this time around.
Lower Price Point – I’ve decided to offer the spring challenge at a lower price point in order to provide accessible style to all, the seasonal challenges are now available for just $39! The private Facebook group alone is worth the price of admission. (Don’t Worry – if you enrolled during the annual membership period, you still got the best deal around!)
The GYPO Quarterly Closet Clean Up – A handy printable to make sorting your closet a breeze. Follow these instructions each season and you’ll always have a curated closet of pieces you LOVE and wear.
New Shopping List – Redesigned shopping list to make it easier than ever to shop your closet and fill in the blanks at the store. You’ll have the option of shopping more classic basic pieces OR more daring trend items. It’s totally up to where you are in the style journey!
Bonus – Access ten outfits immediately! You’ll be able to see the first 7 days of outfit plus the free three bonus outfits as soon as you sign up.
Dress it Up/Dress it Down Options – Each outfit includes tweaks to make it office appropriate or super casual for every day so you can get double the use.
Double the Outfits – You’ll also get access to Spring 2016’s outfits doubling your total to 45 spring outfits!
Bonuses for Spring 2017:
- Weekly Gift Card Giveaways in our Facebook Group
- 3 Bonus Outfits – Bringing your total to 10 outfits you get immediately
- Access to the Spring 2016 GYPO Style Challenge– Bringing your outfit total to 45 spring outfits!
- Dress it Up/Dress it Down Options
Everything You Get:
- The shopping list of basics and on trend items. Start where you are. You don’t have to be a fashionista or have a closet full of clothes.
- A daily outfit idea sent in your email every day for three weeks.
- Daily style tips to go along with your outfits.
- The supportive Facebook group of women just like you on the style journey. Some are ahead and some are just starting out. The beauty is in the advice and friendships shared!
- Weekly clothing gift card giveaways to some of your favorite stores.
- A complete mix and match capsule wardrobe for spring that you can build upon each season!
Who It’s For:
- Anyone stuck in a style rut who’s ready to rediscover confidence through easy style
- Women looking for “ease” in their days and done for them outfit ideas.
- Anyone willing to try new things and get out of the style comfort zone.
How Much is It:
If you’ve ever looked into a personal style service, you know they start at upwards of $150 for just one hour of advice! Because I believe in my heart that every women deserves access to great style and to feel pretty, I founded the GYPO Style Challenge on the concept that it should be affordable to all. All of the tools and resources in this program are available for just $39.
What are the important dates?:
Registration opens on Friday, March 24th. We start to style our first outfit on April 3rd. You’ll have ten days to get everything on the shopping list so I highly recommend signing up as soon as registration opens!
You’ll have between March 24th and April 2nd to get everything in place from your shopping list. If you don’t have all of your items by then, don’t sweat it! You can always sit back and watch and curate the pieces as you find items you love.
The live portion of the challenge is from April 3rd-23rd. We’ll be styling our daily outfits each day during this time.
It’s Risk Free!
The best part? You get to try it risk free! If you sign up and decide it’s just not for you, you’ll have until April 9th to request a refund. As a gift, you can keep the first 10 days of outfit ideas just for trying it.
FAQ’s:
How Much Will I Need to Spend on the Shopping List Items?
That’s totally up to you. Most women shop their closets first and find that they have quite a few items on the list already. Some are starting from scratch. I recommend that you set a budget to work within and find the pieces you absolutely love. I also recommend that you take your time to curate the items on the list. It’s better to wait for a piece that you’ll continue to wear and love than to rush to get all of them at once.
Will this Work for My Weather?
Yes! Women from all over the U.S., Canada and even Europe participate in the challenge and make it work for their climate. You’ll get so much inspiration just from joining the Facebook group.
What Style are the Outfits?
There’s a good mix of casual every day and dressy casual looks. Every outfit includes a dress it up/dress it down option so that you can make your own tweaks to make it work for everything from a day at home to office appropriate.
Do I Have to Style them Every Day?
Nope! You’re welcome to skip when you want to. These outfits are just styling suggestions. Some women choose to participate every day in the Facebook group while others prefer to sit back, watch and learn. You’re also welcome to substitute some of your favorite pieces from your closet to avoid repetition. The point of the challenge is to show you how to pair up your pieces in multiple ways.
If you have any other questions about the GYPO Style Challenge, feel free to e-mail me and ask away!
Spring Challenge Membership Giveaway
Three lucky ladies will win a complementary membership to the Spring 2017 GYPO Style Challenge. Winners will be drawn and notified on Friday, March 24th. Good luck!
a Rafflecopter giveaway
I Feel Pretty Link Up
It’s the day of the week at GYPO where we celebrate what makes us feel pretty. Whether it’s a new outfit, hairstyle, or makeup, the I Feel Pretty link up is about anything and everything that makes your life prettier. Even if you’re not a blogger, you can still play along. Just tell me what made you feel pretty this week in the comments.
Getting my pretty on with Style Elixir, The Pleated Poppy, A Good Hue, Jo Lynne Shane, and A Little Bit of Everything.
There are just a few simple rules:
1. Follow GYPO. (Bloglovin‘, Facebook, Instagram or Pinterest)
2. Link up your pretty post.
3. Link back to GYPO (using the button above or your own link).
4. Visit other pretties.
Mar 20, 2017
Welcome to another edition of SAHMonday – weekly outfit inspiration just for the stay at home and work from home moms of the world (like me!) who aren’t heading out of the house on Monday morning. You can check out the other outfits in this series here.
These outfits are perfect for when you want to feel comfortable, yet put together, so that you can face the day and any errands you may need to run. Plus, most of these outfit formulas can be pulled straight from your closet. If you don’t have my exact pieces, that’s ok. Just use one of the substitutions that I recommend.
Floral Kimono – Times Two!
I picked up this adorable floral kimono at Target a few weeks ago and have had a blast styling it in many different ways. It makes a great lightweight top layer for a simple t-shirt and jeans for a day at home but is also easily dressed up with heels and a long necklace for an evening out. Here are two of my favorite dressed up and down looks I’ve tried recently.
For those of you who will be doing the Spring 2017 GYPO Style Challenge opening this Friday, there will be a floral kimono on the shopping list. It will be one of the substitutions for the floral bomber jacket but you’re welcome to get both. Shhh, just don’t tell your hubby. 🙂
And just like today’s post, I’ll also be including easy “dress it up” and “dress it down” tweaks for every outfit in the spring challenge so you’ll have tons of styling options no matter what you have going on.
Dress it Up: Floral Kimono + Blush Blouse + White Jeans + Heels
[Floral Kimono: Same/Blush Blouse: Similar/White Jeans: Same/Heels: Similar/Necklace: Chesley Mae/Earrings: Same]
Dress it Down: Floral Kimono + Tee + Jeggings + Lace Up Flats
[Floral Kimono: Same/Jeggings: Same/Blush Tee: Similar/Lace Up Flats: Same]
This outfit is SO comfy and easy! See how a kimono can elevate a simple t-shirt and jeggings? It’s the perfect top layer!
Substitutions and Shopping Options:
Floral Kimono: Any printed kimono, bomber jacket or cardigan. Shopping Options: 1/2/3
Blush Blouse/Tee: Any blouse or tee that coordinates with the kimono. Shopping Options: 1/2/3
Jeggings/White Jeans: Any type or wash of jeans including boyfriend. Shopping Options: 1/2/3
Block Heels/Lace Up Flats: Any neutral pair of flats, sandals or heels. Shopping Options: 1/2/3
Show me YOUR SAHMonday outfit! Tag me on Instagram and use the hashtag #SAHMonday.
Spring 2017 GYPO Style Challenge News
My seasonal online styling program, the Spring 2017 GYPO Style Challenge opens on Friday, March 24th. Stay tuned for more news and information including how you could win a free membership to this season’s challenge in Wednesday’s blog post. Sign up for my newsletter to get two exclusive sneak peek outfits and where to shop for them in your inbox tomorrow!
