Just Call Me Ms. Claus

H&M Blazer | ALEXIS Blouse | Savoie Boots c/o UGG Australia | Pants c/o Express (similar) | Zara Bag
Evil Eye Ring via Monc Boutique | Nameplate Necklace c/o T'Audrey

"When in doubt, wear red." -Bill Blass

Not sure if Santa Claus was ever in doubt, but red is never a bad idea in my book. With just 2 days till Christmas (cue children squeeling!) I put together this festive look for my holiday style segment on Univision's Despierta America this morning. (Watch here.) Red lips were a must! Try my favorite, Giorgio Armani Rouge Ecstasy in #400, to get the look. When I received these beautiful boots from UGG Australia I wasn't sure how/when I would wear them since it's basically still summer in Miami. But with an early morning cool breeze, I slipped them on with lightweight leather-look leggings from Express and went on my way. I later realized I looked like a chic version of Saint Nick's wife.

Full disclosure: I haven't worn a pair of UGGs since high school, and pretty much cringe anytime I see someone down here wearing the "classic" boot with, well anything. The Savoie boot is different, the obvious being the heel. The leather exterior and super soft merino wool lining give this shoe the most luxe feel. The best part? They are convertible and can be worn three different ways - folded over, cuffed, or at the knee. I can't wait to rock these in actual cold weather....with yummy thick knits, beanies and scarves. Maybe Santa will bring me a nice winter vacation... I'm on the good list, after all!

Wishing you all a very merry and blessed Christmas filled with warmth and love! Follow my adventures with friends and family on instagram & twitter with #kellysklosetchristmas. XOXO 


Hair by Massimo at Rik Rak Salon Brickell

3 Slimming Holiday Outfits

This morning I was back on set at Despierta America discussing a fashion topic that is likely on every woman's mind - how to look thinner during the holidays. While actually losing weight during this festive time of year is a next-to-impossible feat, it is possible to dress thinner! I styled three looks from Monc Boutique that will take you through the holiday party circuit, whether you're attending an office holiday shindig or a family-style Noche Buena soirée.

Kelly's Rules for Dressing "Skinny"

• Scared of wearing a bodycon or bandage dress? Opt for styles with black side panels that create a slimming optical illusion. Add black tights (try Spanx Shaping Tights) and sexy black heels or booties for an extra sleek look.

• Go for the bold, print that is. Patterns can be a great way to camouflage a thicker waistline when you choose a tailored piece, like a blazer, with a small scale design. Highlight your favorite parts of your body with bold prints and bright colors, while solid colored basics keep attention away from problem areas. 

• Flared skirts and empire waistlines are your BFFs. Both silhouettes cinch in your waist and create an hourglass figure. But beware of going too short! Skirts should be no shorter than 1-2 inches above the knee. If in doubt, accessorize with dark colored tights. (They'll contour your gams and save you from an impending wardrobe malfunction.)

• Shine in the right places. The holidays are the best time of year to glam up and bring out the bling! Statement necklaces and earrings are in no short supply this season. Use bold accessories to add pizzazz to an otherwise basic ensemble and bring sparkle and attention to your face and decolletage.

Shop the Looks 

On Kelly - Color-Block Dress, $86

1)  Silver Skirt, $55 Blouse, $48 Patterned Blazer, $78

2)  Black & White Bodycon Dress, $62

3)  Laser Cut Leather Dress, $68

This post is sponsored by Monc Boutique. All opinions expressed are my own.

Between the Lines

Stripes Sweater c/o Express | ZARA Skirt | Missguided Hat | Michael Antonio Heels

Long-live the crop top! I think South Florida is the only place in the U.S. not currently experiencing frigid temperatures. Be. Jealous. But as my blogger pal Maria of The Wordy Girl points out, us Miami chicks have it tough, "we can't put on the dreaded holiday pudge." So I'll follow up my Art Basel binge with 100 extra squats... add a zero to that after the Victoria's Secret Fashion Show... and stock up on OndadeMar bikinis between Christmas shopping. 

Regardless of the climate where you live, a cropped knit sweater and leather pencil skirt are a killer combo. This vegan leather skirt from ZARA is my new favorite and I can't stop wearing it. At under $60 it's a must-have. (Last seen here.) A chic black fedora is the perfect daytime accessory for a bad case of bed head, or if you just want to look mysterious. In my case, I just want to look seasonally apropos; but I'll take a beach day over a snow day, any day.

SHOP THE LOOK

Makeup by Millie Morales

Photos by Bella Mente

Denim + Stripes

Dress, Vest & Handbag c/o Express | Metallic Belt (similar) | Manolo Blahnik Pumps 

I wore this look from Express for a fun street style segment on Despierta America this week. With an updated look and new designers, Express has been one of my favorite places to shop lately. Miami temps are still in the 80's (winter, where are you?!) which is why I chose a vest rather than a heavy jacket to achieve this layered look. With its classic shape and on-trend stripes this dress is a great basic to add to your wardrobe. If you live in a cooler climate I'm totes jealous because you can dress it up with colored tights, boots, and a leather jacket. Extra points for colored leather! Style Tip: Horizontal stripes can be unflattering, especially when layering heavy fabrics. Use a skinny belt in a complimentary color to nip in your waist.

Art Basel Miami is full force right now and there have never been more star-studded fashion events going on in my backyard. Follow me on instagram and facebook for real time updates!

Hair/Makeup by Millie Morales for Despierta America

Photo by Bella Mente

Shop The Look

The New Black #OOTD

Alexis Fringe Dress (similar) | Danielle Nicole Alexa Tote | Custom #ootd Social Media Plate c/o TAudrey

While the rest of the country is obsessing over Black Friday, I'm just living for this rad black dress by ALEXIS that I scored at their epic annual sample sale last week for just 30 bucks! With fringed sleeves reminiscent of a fab Cher ensemble this is definitely not your typical LBD, which is why I kept my accessories simple. My friend and Miami jewelry designer Tiffany Ortiz of TAudrey has upped the ante on her popular nameplate necklace with the new social media plate ($75). Naturally I chose the signature hashtag #ootd to wear alongside my custom Kelly nameplate. If you're social media obsessed like me, or just looking for a great holiday gift, this is a must-have! Each necklace is made to order with your choice of handle or hashtag. Because I love ya, and it is cyber weekend, use the code kellyskloset to save 15% off your order.

P.S. Would love if you could vote for me in the A&F Style/Off over on FashionIndie.com. One lucky voter will win a trip to New York City for an exclusive shopping spree at the Abercrombie flagship!

Photography by Bella Mente

Hair by Jessica at Vidal Sassoon South Beach

GET THE LOOK

Prep-giving

Abercrombie Kristen Sweater  | Haven Denim Shirt  | Jaquard Pants

With the holiday season in full swing I know I'm not the only one scoping out party attire for the endless festivities headed our way. Thanksgiving is only 2 days away, peeps. T-W-O! Quite possibly the tastiest of all holidays, turkey day is also the trickiest to dress for because my outfit has to satisfy my rule of 2 C's, Classy & Comfortable. This year, I'm all about this preppy look from Abercrombie, and I know the parentals would approve, too. I mean, who can resist a cute animal sweater? I love each of these pieces because they work together in this casual chic ensemble, but they're also great basics you can mix with the rest of your wardrobe. If you don't already own a chambray shirt, or three, make sure to add it to your Black Friday shopping list. Think of it as the shirt that keeps on giving, because it goes with virtually anything you can think of.

Set your alarm clocks, because shopping starts at 8pm on Thursday, when A&F will be offering great deals on the hottest All-American looks both in-store and online. Looking to keep warm and can't make it down to Miami? With those signature hotties a.k.a. model sales-associates, Abercombie's Black Friday party is sure to be the hottest spot at your local mall.

I say, dress light and indulge!


Photography by Bella Mente
Hair by Jessica at Vidal Sassoon South Beach


This post is sponsored by Abercrombie. 

Pencil Skirts for Petites featuring Express

On set at Despierta America, wearing an H&M Top and ZARA skirt.

Being petite doesn't have to be a fashion obstacle if you know the tricks to maximizing your size. Despierta America asked me to share my suggestions for rocking a pencil skirt, so I styled three different looks from Express to prove it can be done without overwhelming a shorter figure. (Watch the segment.)


Petite Style 101: How to Wear a Pencil Skirt

1. Draw the eye up by pairing a bright or patterned blouse with a solid color skirt.
2. Skirt length should be no longer than just below the knee to maximize height.
3. Go monochromatic. Wearing one color from head-to-toe offers an illusion of length. This high-waisted pencil skirt by Express nips the waist in at just the right place creating a super-flattering hourglass figure.
4. The higher the heel... A classic nude or black pump are the best way to continue the clean line of a pencil skirt. Added bonus? The right nude heel will make your legs look a mile long. Avoid shoes with straps and anything flat or chunky that will "cut" you off at the ankle.
5. Consider proportions. Feeling adventurous? Rock a patterned skirt, but remember that small patterns (like lace) are best. Designs that are too big or busy will overwhelm a petite figure.

High Waist Pencil Skirt | Lace Pencil Skirt (similar) | Leather Trim Pencil Skirt 
GET THE LOOK

Blush N Tell

Top, Skirt & Clutch available at Blush Boutique | Boots by Shoedazzle | Target Necklace (old)

This isn't your abuela's sweater set. One of the best things about living in Miami is the luxury of enjoying summer weather (almost) 365 days a year. Fashionably speaking, it can also be one of the worst. Chunky knits and chic coats have no place in this hot and humid paradise, so we make compromises and define seasonal trends in our own way. This look from Blush Boutique is so apropros for transitioning from summer to fall, with the light knit fabric perfect for the milder temps. Plus, it's a crop top! (I'm still not ready to let them go. Year-round crop tops are a perk of 3-0-5 living.) Blush is my favorite place to stop when I need a guilt-free pick me up because I know I'll always find something new to update my daily wardrobe. Once only a gem for Miami locals, Blush launched their online shop earlier this year offering the same stylish looks at crazy affordable prices that their signature hot pink outposts are known for. Check out my favorite picks including très chic white vegan leather shorts for under 40 bucks. Sweeten the deal by using the code kellyskloset for 10% off your next purchase from ShopBlush.com. (Offer expires Dec. 19, 2013.) 

Print on Print

Gigi New York Trunk Show Today at ISA's

Join me today from 6 - 8pm for bubbly & shopping at ISA Boutique in Coral Gables! 

Not in Miami? Shop the trunk show online at www.isa-boutique.com and enter code GIGI10 at checkout for 10% off any Gigi New York purchase.

Fall Forward with Clark's

Let's talk Fall fashion. Too soon, you say? Miami may be seasonless, but between back-to-school shopping and mega September issues, I get as excited for a new pair of boots and a great jacket as any northern girl. As a member of the Vogue Influencer Network I was lucky enough to get a first look at Clark's new Fall/Winter 2013 collection and received these Lida Sayer booties to style. The brand has definitely kicked it up a notch this season, (pun intended,) updating their classic silhouettes with rich colors, textures, and trendy hardware. For me, Clark's was synonymous with comfort - not style - but this collection proves to be both with a vintage, All-American vibe. Check out my curated look book here to see my favorites from the line, including a classic distressed ankle boot and menswear-inspired oxfords.

Clark's Lida Sayer Bootie

What I'm Wearing

Yumi Kim Skirt via Gambita

Lida Sayer Bootie c/o Clark's 

Crystal Cross Necklace c/o ISA Boutique

Old Denim Shirt (similar)

Photos by Bella Mente


*This post is sponsored by Clark's & the Vogue Influencer Network.

A Morning with Tory

Rise and shine? I'm not much of a morning person, but I managed to roll out of bed bright and early for a preview of the Tory Burch 2014 Resort collection on day three of Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Swim.

Gigi in the Gables

I love a good blazer, don't you? It's the best way to make anything look instantly chic and polished. Teaming this floral print style (on sale at Zara) with a chambray top and lace shorts was my way of doing casual Friday at the office, but when five o'clock came around I needed to take my look from desk to date night, quick! The solution? A sunny over-sized clutch by the name of Gigi, from Coral Gables favorite Isa Boutique. The sassy leather clutch is big enough to store all my necessities, including iPhone, keys, lip gloss, and wallet, with room to spare. You can find Gigi New York bags exclusively at Isa's, where you can also personalize your bag with metallic monogramming. Who doesn't love a good monogram?! For a limited time, receive complimentary monogramming on purchases over $100. Use code THANKYOU25 at checkout on www.isa-boutique.com, or mention the offer when shopping in store or by phone. 

Isa Boutique | (786) 558-8027, 34 Giralda Avenue, Coral Gables, FL 33134.

ZARA Floral Blazer (similar)

Loehmann's Chambray Top

Pour la Victoire Nasha Sandals (similar)

Gigi New York Uber Clutch via Isa Boutique

*Sponsored

Mercedes-Benz Swim Week Miami, Look 1

After a stormy start, Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Swim 2014 kicked off last Thursday at the Raleigh Hotel in Miami Beach.

#EscapeMiami at the Sagamore

Swimsuit: American Apparel | Sunglasses: H&M (old) | Earrings: Forever 21

Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Swim has arrived! These shots are a peek at the first-ever Swim Week street style photo installation debuting this Saturday at the Sagamore Hotel. The series entitled "Summer Crush" features thirty of Miami's hottest fashion bloggers as captured by Mayleen Gonzalez of Photo Boutique. Miami is synonymous with itty bitty bikinis, so a swimsuit was the only thing that came to mind when I was styling my favorite summer look for the shoot. I was so excited to finally get in front of Mayleen's lens - the self proclaimed photog ninja got these amazing shots in about 10 minutes. No joke! The fastest photo shoot of my life! Needless to say, I'm in love with the final product; I always wanted to be a pin-up girl! 

If you were able to RSVP for Escape Miami before the deadline, get ready for a whole lotta fun: spa & beauty treatments, snowcones (yes!), pop-up shops, a DIY jewelry bar, tan touch-ups, swimwear presentation, blogger corner, & more!