Handpicked | Holiday Fashion Guide

Finishing up our helpful holiday guides this week - why not gift yourself with some beautiful fashion?  Nine fabulous options to glam up your holiday season!!

1)  Swiss-dot Chiffon Dress - $350 - Ivory and Black with a bow?  I'm in!
2)  Black Lace Drop-waist Faille Dress - $230 - I love the classic shape of this dress and the lace is a pretty bonus!
3)  Cascading Bow Skirt - $89.50 - The perfect holiday silhouette!
4)  Hannah Slim Crop Velvet Pants - $154 - You can't go wrong with textured velvet pants this season.
5)  Auric Arrows Blouse - $118 - The chevron style in black and gold is to die for!
6)  Colorblocked Structured Peplum Shell in LOFT Scuba - $59.50 - Peplum tops are perfect!
7)  Shimmer Bow Belt - $29.50 - This lovely would be a fabulous accent to any outfit.
8)  Flax Pumps - $69 - Glitter shoes?  YES!
9)  Belina Embellished Flat - $120 - These suede flats are just adorable and would add a touch of glam!

Handpicked | Fall 2012 Trends - Black + Gold

The Black and Gold trend has always been a favorite of mine - often you'll see me sporting the color combo while working weddings :o)

1} Harper Leather Boots in Black - $328 - A gorgeous twist on a must-have staple.

2} Gigi Studs - $24 - You could wear these little lovelies every day!

3} Chain Link Silk Square Scarf in Cocoon - On Sale for $49.50 - Scarves are the perfect and affordable accessory!

4} 5 Station Necklace by House of Harlow 1960 in Black Leather - $75

5} Damon Bag in Black - $135 - A gorgeous vegan bag?  Gotta have it!

6} Black Gold Pyramid Stud Wrap by La Mer Collections in Black/Gold - $106 - The watch/bracelet combo is huge right now!

7} Selina by Dolce Vita in Black Suede - $175 - Let the gold toe spice up your basic black suede pumps!
8} Bow Jangles Ring in Black - $12 - So cute and so cheap - bonus!

9} EMILIO PUCCI Black Studded Clutch with Tassel - $1289 - At this price point, it's definitely not a viable option but it is great inspiration :o)

Handpicked | Fall 2012 Trends - Neutral + Noteworthy

I hope everyone had a wonderful holiday!! We'll have a double-dose of Handpicked today to make up for yesterday and boy, is it going to be a good one :o) First up, Neutral and Noteworthy - a classic turned trend!

1} Russa Matte Silk Top by Joie in New Moon - $238 - The simple silhouette of this top is so classy and feminine.
2} Hi-Lo Wrap Dress by Loveappella in Camel - $89 - I'm obsessed with the hi-lo trend and this neutral beauty would be the perfect wardrobe addition!
3} Barbara Floral Scarf in Mustard - $49.50
4} Fagan by KORS Michael Kors in Light Sand Smooth Calf - $295 -  Gorgeous!!
5} Juliana Flat by Christian Siriano for Payless in Gold - $39.99 - What adorable flats!!
6} Graham Leather Triple Strand Wrap by Gorjana in Tan - $110 - I need to own this bracelet!!
7} Boxing Day Satchel by Kenneth Cole New York in Burgundy - $298 - A gorgeous, classic bag is a much need accessory this Fall and in this neutral tone it will go with everything.
8} White And Rose Gold Link Strap Watch Kenneth Cole New York - $125 - White rubber-banded watches coupled with rose gold are a huge accessory trend that I adore!
9} MICHAEL Michael Kors Reefer Felt Coat in Dark Camel - $350 - Every girl needs a great camel coat!

Oh Lovely Day | Guest Wish List

We have a special Guest Wish List for you today - the beautiful and talented Chandra of Oh Lovely Day, one of my favorite wedding blogs, is here sharing her current "must haves"!!  I adore everything Chandra does over at Oh Lovely day and she constantly inspires me, not only in her business, but as a stay-at-home momma and wifey :o)  Now check out the truly lovely items she's wishing for - enjoy!

1) Blogger Sweatshirt: I've been obsessed with this "blogger" sweatshirt since I first laid eyes on it. Since I work from home as a blogger and a stay-at-home momma full time I can wear it to work :)

2) Fujifilm Instax Mini 7S Camera: I like to pretend I'm a photographer and love taking pictures. I also always loved polaroid cameras (and even had one at my wedding with film bought on ebay). I'd love to have this updated version to collect special moments and have instant "retro" prints to display!

3) Trip to Kauai: My husband and I haven't been on a real vacation since our honeymoon (almost 3 years ago!) and we haven't had a family vacation since our son was born. I've been dreaming of going back to Kauai because it is the perfect relaxing place for a family with a toddler. And I really need a vacay!

4) Matching iPad and iPhone covers: These neopolitian covers would really perk up my plainly dressed (or naked!) iPad and iPhone. This etsy shop has tons of adorable options!

Midwest Muse | Guest Wish List

Recently I signed up to be a part of The 330 Swap and Shop (which I couldn't be more excited about - it's happening this Sunday, yay!!) and I had the pleasure of chatting via email with the lovely Jessica Noelle of the local style blog, Midwest Muse (which you must check out - I adore it!)!  Jessica graciously offered to do a Guest Wish List and I was thrilled because she truly does have impeccable style - I love her unique and one-of-a-kind choices :o)  Enjoy!!  A big thank you to Jessica for joining us!!

Jessica here!

I'm obsessed with all things space. I've gone by Jessica Astronaut for years and I'm known to most as Little Astronaut! I have the planets down my spine and I'm recently discovering all these wonderful space items. Strangely, I don't own any yet.

1)  The Space Locket -- I love these because they are simple and adorable and I could imagine wearing them with just about every outfit.

2)  Wren Celestial Print Dress -- This dress is so perfect. I've been dreaming about it since I first saw it many months ago. But let's be real, it's almost $300. I'll never own it, so I'll keep on dreamin'.

3)  Galaxy Leggings -- These are the most ridiculous and funky things I've ever seen and I'm pretty sure they need to be mine.

4)  Galaxy Hair Bow -- This is affordable, handmade, and PERFECT. I am probably going to go and purchase this very soon. It's the cutest bow I have ever seen!

Thanks again, Jessica!!  We love having Guest Wish Listers - if you're interested shoot us an email:  info@bacidesigner.com :o)

Handpicked | Ruche Bridal Collection

It's no secret that I'm in love with Ruche, so when they recently released their own Bridal Collection my heart did a little flip!!  One peek at their To Have and To Hold Lookbook and I was in total love :o)  So I dove in to the collection and Handpicked my nine favorite pieces (what a rough life I lead, lol!).  Enjoy!

1)  Audrey - $249.99 - The perfect vintage silhouette!
2)  Hydrangea Dress - $145.99 - I would kill to wear this as a bridesmaid dress :o)
3)  Rose Pale Pink Dress - $58.99 - Simple, yet elegant - love it!
4)  Forever Fancy Rosette Bolero - $76.99 - I must find a way to incorporate this into my own non-wedding wardrobe, lol!
5)  Exquisite Adornment Clutch - $54.99 - The mint tone of this is fantastic!
6)  True Adulation Pearl Gloves - $24.99 - These would be the perfect addition to the Audrey. . .
7)  Just Because Heels - $99.99 - . . . as would these ;o)
8)  Ever Thine Taupe Fascinator - $42.99 - Heavenly!!
9)  Love You Open Toe Heels - $49.99 - I need to own these shoes, ASAP!

Another little bonus to add to this already amazing thing - Ruche also released the most fabulous Wedding Bliss Guide full of great tips, advice and DIYs!!!  The Bridesmaid Styling Tips are my favorite - I would love to see an ombré bridesmaid ensemble :o)

Holiday Fashion Guide | 2011

It's the most wonderful time of the year. . . to get dressed up!!  There isn't a better excuse to treat yourself to something pretty than for a holiday get together - so I've put together four perfect party outfits for this holiday season!  BONUS - each piece is under $100 :o)

The holiday season is the best time to spice up your wardrobe with a little red!  Pair it with warm gold and brown accessories for that perfect candlelight glow.

Where to wear it:  Your Holiday Work Party

 1 {source}, 2 {source}, 3 {source}, 4 {source}, 5 {source}

 You can't miss by combining sequins and textured tights with this perfect little black dress!  Save yourself a little cash and use a LBD that's already in your closet :o)

Where to wear it:  A Holiday Out on the Town

1 {source}, 2 {source}, 3 {source}, 4 {source}

Pairing gorgeous pops of blue with different black textures (we've used velvet in the top, sequins in the skirt and suede in the shoes!) will make you feel oh-so-sexy this season!

Where to wear it:  Your Friend's New Year's Eve Fête

1 {source}, 2 {source}, 3 {source}, 4 {source}, 5 {source}, 6 {source}

The simplicity of the soft ivory top and wide-leg pants is the perfect opportunity to top it off with a fur vest, a spot of color in an accessory and sparkly shoes!
Where to wear it:  Your Family Christmas Dinner

1 {source}, 2 {source}, 3 {source}, 4 {source}, 5 {source}


What will you  be wearing this holiday season?!?!

Four Years!!! {Getting Ready}

Can you believe it?!?!?!  Ilario and I have been married FOUR years today!!!  I couldn't be more blessed to have found such an amazing man to spend my life with!

And since reliving that very special day is one of my favorite things (EVER!), I'm going to spend today and tomorrow showing you all some of my favorite details.  Right now, it's all about the ladies (and a few of the handsome men) getting ready.  All photos by Brandy J Photography :o)

My bridesmaids, flower girls and mom spent the morning of October 27th getting ready at a salon in my hometown, which unfortunately is no longer open :o(  My dear friend and hair dresser, Jen, flew in from Charlotte to do my hair while my cousin Kristie and another stylist at the salon helped out with hair as well.  I also was lucky enough to have the talented Jordanne Clyde doing my makeup and an Arbonne specialist working on the rest of the ladies!

I adore the moments captured in these next few photos - my sister is obviously making fun of me while helping put on my jewelry (lol!!), I'm assisting my cousin's little girl, Alivia, put the finishing touches on her flower girl dress and then Alivia and our family friend, Hannah, twirling in their gowns - LOVE!!

The photo of my garter is a very special one - my grandmother, mom and aunts have all worn that garter on their wedding days!!  Jami even wore it earlier in this month :o)

Once again, a few more of my favorite moments - I was having a little fun while the ladies were fluffing my crinoline and then my mom making my brooch (which I purchased in Charleston - where we were engaged!) look just perfect.

Stay tuned for photos from our ceremony!!

Wedding Wednesday | Jamie + Grant's Intimate Tennessee Wedding by Shannon Kelley Photography

Today we have a special treat to lay your eyes on - A Real Wedding by the seriously talented Shannon Kelley of Shannon Kelley Photography!  Shannon is not only inspiring behind the camera, but she's doing some pretty incredible things in her personal life as well.  In January, Shannon and her family will be moving to Haiti to do work with World Wide Village.  To learn more about this amazing woman and her journey be sure to read her blog.

Now for a little about this gorgeous wedding, from Shannon herself - 

Jamie and Grant are the perfect example of how you don't have to sacrifice beauty and details with a small wedding. They held a destination wedding for them and their family at a cabin in Gatlinburg, Tennessee. Jamie planned out the gorgeous details like the peacock feathers in her hair and for the boutonnieres. The small intimate wedding also let them incorporate really sweet details like each member getting to say a little something to them during the ceremony and, of course, some fun pictures of the whole family together. It was a great day to celebrate their beautiful wedding!

I am in so in love with Jamie's dress - it's the perfect combination of ethereal and sexy!  And are you kidding me with that gorgeous view and the peacock details - swoon!

I adore the emotion Shannon was able to capture - had it not been such an intimate ceremony, those moments could have gone unnoticed.  It truly is beautiful.

The details of this ceremony are exceptional - even the guest attire matched the wedding colors!

A huge thank you goes out to Shannon for sharing these beautiful images of Jamie and Grant's day!!  It's an honor to feature such a gorgeous and unique event :o)

Handpicked - Ann Taylor 40% Off

In honor of the Ann Taylor Must-Shop Fall Fashion Event - 40% OFF EVERYTHING - I've Handpicked nine perfect pieces for any wardrobe :o)

1)  Snake Print Cuffed Sleeveless Dress - $98

2)  Silk Trench Shirt in Mushroom - $118

3)  Striped Off the Shoulder Top - $48
4)  Kamela Lizard Stamped Leather Wedges in Black - $178
5)  Breast Cancer Ring - $58
6)  Leather Double Wrap Skinny Belt in Black - $78
7)  Ruffle Front Long Sleeve Shirt in Black - $78
8)  Metallic Luxe Scarf - $58
9)  Tropical Wool Pencil Skirt in Black - $118

Wrap-up :: Handpicked - Fall 201 Trends, Ladylike Bags

It's bittersweet to wrap up the Fall 2011 Handpicked Trends today, but we're going out with a bang with Ladylike Bags!!

1)  Robinson Tote by Tory Burch available at Nordstrom - Dear Lord, I love this bag! - $550

2)  Bixby Baby by Kate Spade available at Piperlime - The framed trend is very apparent here!  Love it! - $495
3)  Ella Framed Satchel by Ivanka Trump available at Piperlime - $125
4)  Lemon Drop Small Framed Lella from Kate Spade - I can't get enough of that adorable little pineapple on top of this clutch! - $225
5)  Heritage Quilt Archer Satchel in Greige by Cole Haan - $398
6)  Merona Tweed Handbag in Cognac from Target - Affordability and beauty! - $44.99
7)  Chelsea Boucle Emerson Satchel in Black Multi from Coach - $498
8)  Vintage Re-issue Satchel by Fossil available at Piperlime - $188
9)  Walker Park Large Tote from Kate Spade - $325


In case you missed any of our Two Week's of Fall 2011 Handpicked Trends - here's the whole list:

Pendants

Midi Skirts + Dresses

Chunky-heeled Boots

'70's Platforms

Capes + Ponchos

Bellbottom Flares

Spicy Tones

Hiker Booties

Tie-neck Blouses

Faux Fur

What was your favorite trend?  Are you ahead of the game and already have some of these pieces in your wardrobe?  We'd love to hear from you {info@bacidesigner.com}!

A huge thank you to Piperlime's Fall 2011 Top 11 Trends for inspiration!!

Handpicked - Fall 2011 Trends, Pendants

Last September, I was inspired to do two full weeks of Fall Trends Handpickeds and I'm back at it again this year!!  Following Piperlime's Top Fall Trends List (they added an extra this year, so we'll have a special weekend edition - yay!), we're starting with #1 - Pendants.

1)  Ombré Cameo Necklace from Forever 21 - Ombré is all the rage right now, so this necklace is the perfect super affordable addition to your accessory collection this Fall! - $5.80

2)  Ocean Jasper Necklace in Moss from Anthropologie - Pricey, but oh-so-beautiful!! - $798

3)  Kate Spade Hang in There Glasses Pendant Necklace from Piperlime - Fun and quirky, I love it! - $148

4)  Tort Pave Geometric Pendant from Ann Taylor - I adore tortoise shell! - $68

5)  Lost in Wonderland Necklace from Shabby Apple - I love cameo necklaces and this one makes me swoon!!! - $52

6)  Golden Pendant Necklace from Ann Taylor - $68

7)  Betsey Johnson 'Asian Jungle' Peacock Pendant Necklace from Nordstrom - A fun way to incorporate a little Betsey in your life ;o) - $50

8)  Lulu Frost Crystal Duette Pendant Necklace in Black from J. Crew - $135 

9)  Tiger's-eye Pendant Necklace from Banana Republic - This would look great with a simple brown satin bridesmaid dress! -  $39.50

Be sure to check out last year's trends to compare:

1 {Over-the-knee Boots}

2 {Military Inspiration}

3 {Lace-up Boots}

4 {Vintage Details}

5 {Skinny Cords}

6 {Faux Fur}

7 {Blanket Sweaters}

8 {Spat Boots}

9 { Saddle Bags}

10 {Feminine Jewels}

Sunday Funday, #5

By far the prettiest thing I saw this week - I want these shoes!!!  Be sure to check out the entire Home on the Prairie Inspiration Shoot on Sparkle and Hay - it is breathtakingly beautiful and full of fabulous DIY!

Sunday Funday, #3

Today's Sunday Funday photo comes from BHLDN's Real Parties Facebook Album full of all of their gorgeous décor!  This photo is as gorgeous as the Heirloom Ring Pillow :o)  As if I didn't love BHLDN enough already!!

Handpicked - Groom's Gift

Brides: Have you searched up and down the web and stores for the perfect Groom's Gift?

If you have, join my world :) A lot of these gifts could be used for a groomsmen gift as well.  The important thing is to make it personal, this is the man you're going to spend the rest of your life with.

1) Stainless Steel/Titanium Pocket Watch on thingsremembered.com - $140 - If you want, add a little etched note on it about how important he is to you! I am sure he would really like that!

2) Flask Gift Set exclusivelyweddings.com -$49.95

3) Personalized Ticket Album on personalizationmall.com - $22.95 - I liked this, only because Eric is a huge baseball fan and I think he would appreciate it even if it's something small.

4) Deluxe Valet on gifts.redenvelope.com - $99.95

5) Chiller and Ice Bucket on personalizationmall.com - $39.95 - My sister's friend just got her "soon to be" husband something very similar to this and he loved it!

6) Personalized Golf Balls on gifts.personalcreations.com - $44.99

7) Stadium Cufflinks (Tigers for Eric!) on gifts.redenvelope.com $169.95 - Again, something fun and different for a huge baseball fan.

8) Engraved Silver Cigar Case on personalizationmall.com -  $18.95

9) Embroidered Luxury Fleece Robe on personalizationmall.com - $59.95 - Comfy, need I say more :)

Sunday Funday, #1

I decided it was time we start showing you some blog love on the weekends!  Sunday Funday will bring focus to one image that we've fallen in love with throughout the prior week.  I am so excited Jami and I get to share all the prettiness we share with one other throughout the week - it's going to be hard to decide on a favorite ;o)  Enjoy!

Our first image comes from a fellow TWIPS member - we are so proud to be a part of such a wonderful organization, full of so many inspiring women!!

On Friday, the beautiful Megan of Glamour and Grace, featured a gorgeous Enchanted Forest Inspiration Shoot by photographer Laura Murray.  This is my favorite photo from the post - it's so ethereal.  I love that even though it's girly with the tulle, it's still incredibly sexy!!  Be sure to hop on over to Glamour and Grace to see the rest of this beautiful shoot!

Wedding Wednesday | 4th of July Inspiration Board

I LOVE the 4th of July!!! Wanna know why---good, because I'm going to tell you :)

1) We are celebrating our freedom

2) I get to see family

3) There are fireworks,

4) Amazing food

and

5) Because it's a HOLIDAY :)

You can have all five of these at a wedding, too (well maybe not the fireworks, ha) which led me to make an inspiration board! Enjoy!

{Row One Sources - 1, 2, 3}

{Row Two Sources - 1}

{Row Three Sources - 1, 2, 3}

{Row Four Sources - 1, 2}

BHLDN - My Current Wish List

It's been a while since I publicly wished for anything - I wish for things each and every day here in the privacy of baci's office, lol - so I thought with all of the weddings we'll be attending this summer I would wish for some lovely wedding attire from the incredible BHLDN. Remember I wrote about the unveiling back in February? Well, the line just keeps getting more beautiful :o) Here is the perfect summer evening wedding outfit that I'll never be able to afford, but I will most certainly dream about!

1) Starburst Pleated Shift in Dusty Purple - I honestly may have to break down and buy this dress, it is so lovely and could not be in a more beautiful color!

2) Peony Hairpin in White - Heavenly!

3) Agave Peep-toes in Champagne - Why the hell not wear velvet and organza puffs on my feet? ;o)

4) Pinot Noir Drops in Wine - Because when you have a giant peony in your hair and your shoes are just a bit crazy, you need a simple, understated pair of earrings to top it all off!

Handpicked - Fun Wedding Day Accessories

Have you ever seen cute wedding day pictures with adorable props?

How about pictures of the wedding party walking into the reception with some fun accessories?

Well I am here to tell you that I have seen those pictures and they are absolutely priceless!!

I found nine items that could easily be used to spice up some wedding day pictures. It could be something traditional or unique. Some couples even get items that fit into their wedding day theme.

1) Futai Smart Brelli Umbrella on target.com - $26.99 - Purchase a cute umbrella and use it rain or shine on your wedding day!!

2) Mardi Gras Feather Couples Mask on buycostumes.com - $11.99

3) Detroit Tigers Hat on fansedge.com - $23.99 - This hat would be fun for the groom to add a little something to his tux....or....it could be for any lady, too :)

4) Purple Turkey Feather Boas on partymart.com - $36.50 for a dozen.

5) White Ray Ban Wayfarer Style on shadesoffun.com - $11 for a dozen - At my friend's wedding they wore sunglasses into the reception and it was just a cute idea!!

6) Hula Hoop Set on brandsonsale.com - $14.99 for 3

7) "I do" signs, picture taken by Montography, I think this idea is fun and would be around $7.

8) Balloons, picture taken by Montography, Something cheap to purchase to make your photos pop. It would cost about $2 for a pack of balloons.

9) Records, picture taken by Montography, You could go to any local antique shop and pay around $3 for a record to get a super cute picture like this.

Sunglasses - My Current Wishlist

With the sun finally starting to shine, it's getting me in the "spring" mood so I need the perfect pair of sunglasses.

Now, I know a typical girl has more than 1 pair of sunglasses and I do but it has been awhile since I bought a new pair, so I am looking for a new and improved pair.

I found 4 pairs of sunglasses that could make anyone be in the spring mood!!

1) Oakley Cover Story (Purple/Black) on sunglasshut.com - $119.98 - Super cute shades that come in four different colors. A little bit more than what I would normally pay, but if they're going to last, it's worth every penny!! 2) Vera Wang V84 (Black) on sears.com - $52.99 - Simple, black pair of sunglasses, you can't go wrong. 3) Angel Women's Livvy Sunglasses on overstock.com - $17.49 - I like these a lot!! 4) Guess Women's GU6315P Fashion Sunglasses on overstock.com - $36.99 - They come in different shades and are basic enough that I could wear with something dressy or sporty.