Current Obsession: The Midwestyle

When it comes to men’s fashion, it takes a lot to capture my interest. There’s so much you can do with womenswear which is why I tend to push menswear to the side. That is, until I discovered The Midwestyle.

Jeff, Seth and Cam are the guys behind The Midwestyle and they started their blog to show that men, even in the Midwest, can have style…and on a budget! I’m going to be honest, shopping on a budget isn’t my forte so I have an extreme respect for those who do it, and do it well.

Whether they’re showcasing their wallet-friendly finds on Thrifty Thursday, sharing their latest inspirations or what they wish they could spend their rent money on, The Midwestyle is entertaining for both guys and girls. I mean look at them…you can’t help but love them, and their style.

This isn’t just any personal style blog. The Midwestyle is the go-to place for down-to-earth, honest, and entertaining men’s fashion. Even if you’re not a guy and you don’t live in the Midwest, I promise you’ll love this site. See for yourself www.themidwestyle.com.

Photos courtesy of The Midwestyle

What I’m Coveting For Spring 2011

The Spring ’11 collections were some of the best Spring collections I’ve seen in a while. The designers really embraced color now more than ever and no one appreciates color more than I do. I just can’t help but smile when I see a collection full of fun colors! With that said, there have been SO many items for Spring that I have been obsessing over. I have already picked up some of my favorites including the Proenza Shoulder rope bracelet, the green PS11, Missoni sunhat and the Prada Baroque sunglasses to name a few…but with any fashion obsessed girl, there’s always room for more!

Here are my current Spring obsessions (that I have yet to obtain)…

Proenza Schouler Perforated lizard-effect leather pumps: I’m obviously starting off with a Proenza piece. Although I’m in love with the entire Spring ’11 collection, there’s something about these shoes I’m just drawn to. I don’t normally like a pointed toe but I love how it’s perforated and the way the neutral colors are mixed is unique yet practical.

Missoni Crochet-Knit cross-back top: Choosing one piece from the Missoni Spring collection is just as difficult as the Proenza collection. The colors from Missoni Spring ’11 are brilliant, especially in this top. Combining blues, purples and greens are my favorite colors to wear so I’m immediately drawn to this. I’ve really been into high waisted pants and shorts lately so this cropped top would work perfectly into my wardrobe.

Miu Miu Appliqued metallic leather clutch: There’s something about the “starbursts” seen throughout the Miu Miu Spring ’11 collection that just intrigues me. It’s an unexpected burst of fun to add to your wardrobe. Although I loved it combined with neon yellow in the dresses and tops, I would get so much use out of this clutch!

 Lanvin Swarovski-pin embellished straw hat: Although I love my Missoni hat, it is a little…out there. As far as an everyday sunhat, I love this one by Lanvin. It’s super floppy and the Swarovski pin is totally random…which is always a good thing in my book.

Stella McCartney Citrus-print silk-satin dress: I am really feeling the fruit this season. It’s so ridiculous that I just can’t get enough of it. The silhouette of this dress is so easy to wear and the print is PERFECT for Spring/Summer. This dress makes me smile 🙂

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What items are you coveting for Spring? Let me know in the comments section below! 

Chicago Designer K. Amato Goes International

Chicago jewelry designer, Kristen Amato of K. Amato, has just signed on with ShopNBC.com to go international. On May 22, Kristen will appear on the live telecast featuring her latest collection on ShopNBC.com.

Not only are her pieces unique and stylish, but they’re actually affordable! At $20-$100 each, this accessible line is perfect for any woman. Another plus? She names her many of her jewels after Chicago street names. Love that!

Want to get a sneak peak at her latest collection? The jewelry below will be available May 22.

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To see where K. Amato is carried near you, visit www.k-amato.com.

Chicago Based Organic Skincare Line La Bella Figura

Today Refinery29 featured Chicago based skincare line La Bella Figura. The company uses all chemical-free products with their main ingredient being argan oil. I am a huge beauty junkie and when the products are all natural, I love them even more!

Want to try Line La Bella products for yourself? Tweet this story and mention @Refinery29 and one lucky winner will receive every product from the line!

See Local Skincare Line La Bella Figura Reinvents Your Routine for the full story.

Shopping Local on 190 North

As you all know I’m all about supporting fashion in Chicago. So when I came across this 190 North segment the other day I knew I had to share! Featuring boutiques like Local Lookbook and Cerato, it’s really great to see that the Chicago fashion scene is well-supported and holding strong.

Click below to watch the segment.