The Greer Guide to Austin: Kiki Nass

For Kiki Nass proprietor Joannah Hillebrandt, clothes aren’t just a commodity: they’re a calling. After attending FIDM in L.A., she worked her way up in the footwear industry, becoming then the youngest buyer in Nine West’s history. Though undeniably a go-getter and fashionable force in her own right, Hillebrandt credits much of her early success with having good managers to work for, and it’s an experience that she says motivates her to make Kiki Nass a positive, supportive space to work in every day.

The positive energy in the shop is undeniable: from the light and airy spaces to the enviable selection of clothing, jewelry and home goods that would make any Austin woman swoon. For Hillebrandt, good business is just good karma: She talks about how studying Buddhism has influenced her commitment to being present and fostering good energy around her.

“I wear the hell out of my clothes,” Hillebrandt says, adding that she tells everyone she knows to invest in quality over quantity when it comes to their wardrobes. Hillebrandt stocks exclusively from vendors whose values align with her own.

What to Expect at Kiki Nass: 

• looks for every closet: premium denim, breezy tops, and on-trend dresses
• boho, yet super versatile jewelry
• unique, artful pieces for home and baby
• an elevated, yet totally accessible overall vibe that epitomizes "Austin cool"

Though in the Lamar Union complex for nearly three years, Kiki Nass first opened in 2005, at a location on 12th St. until it shuttered in 2009. Hillebrandt was there from the beginning, and after moving to Florida following the shop’s closure, she eventually returned to Austin to re-open Kiki Nass in its current location.

“Clothing is an all-day hug.” - Joannah Hillebrandt

What sets Kiki Nass apart is its staying power: Coming back after a post-recession closure, it remains committed to doing good business and providing an excellent retail experience, maintaining a human connection with the clothing it sells. The shop is very much a physical manifestation of Hillebrandt herself, putting her money where her mouth (and heart) is. Kiki Nass is all about paying homage to the connections and the luck that she’s had throughout her career, and the results are magic.

Now we want to know...
What is your favorite boutique in Austin? Leave us a comment below and tell us which Austin shop you'd love to see on The Greer Guide to Austin.

The Greer Guide to Austin is a monthly column written and photographed by Liz Feezor of Liz Feezor Creative. 

Greer Image Consulting loves supporting local small businesses and Austin brands that celebrate individual style and our community. To cultivate your unique style and for more information on Greer Image Consulting services, click here to schedule a complimentary 1-on-1 call with Raquel.

How To Pack A Carry-On For Two Different Climates

Packing is one of my favorite things to write about because it's all about adding the perfect ingredients to your suitcase to ensure you'll be stylish and successful on your next adventure. 

It can be tough to find the exact recipe that suits your mood and activities on the trip, and this time I'm taking on my biggest challenge yet. 

Next month, I'm heading out of town for three weeks to vacation in Cape Cod and attend a wedding in Maine. These two stops mean I'll be juggling a suitcase filled with options for the beach and cooler weather activities in Maine. The forecast is predicting both highs in the upper 70s and lows in the 50s. 

If your vacations take you to places with both mountains and water, like Colorado or Oregon, this one's for you.

A couple things to know 

For this trip, I'll have access to a washer/dryer the whole time (unlike my Europe trip), which is allows me to pack less and continuously utilize essential pieces over and over again during the trip. 

My clothes and accessories will all be going in my carry-on, but I'll also be taking a tote to carry my computer, wallet and miscellaneous items I'll need on the plane and for daily adventures. 

How I'm doing it

First, I'm conceptualizing my special event outfit. This trip only requires one, the wedding outfit, so that will be the easiest part of the pack. For this, I chose a top and pant set similar to this one. To finish the look, I'm adding black platform heels to dress up the outfit and Beaded by W mustard tassel earrings to pop the pattern of the set. Below is the set I've chosen. 

Next, consider the vibe of where you're headed, then pack a handful of pieces that play into that atmosphere. Cape Cod has a classic/preppy/retro feel, so I packed light-colored tops to mimic the laid-back, beachy mood of this seasonal spot. This step is really your time to inject the pieces you love that you'll be really excited to wear. 

Finally, get practical. Add in all the elements you'll need to do all the activities you want to do. In this step, I'm adding a sweatshirt, a swimsuit, a cover-up, and workout clothes -- all items I will definitely need during my travels. 

The breakdown

shoes

Vince slides, black platform heels, Tecovas cowboy boots

From left to right: platform heels for the wedding, Vince slides for the beach, Tecovas boots for the whole trip

tops

spaghetti strap grey blouse, Rails striped button-down, Rails Hawaiian printed top 

My Rails striped shirt is perfect for the retro vibes of Cape Cod. 

I've decided to pack this heather grey spaghetti-strap top, because it's an easy throw-on for layering or by itself on the beach. 

bottoms

white jean shorts, ripped jeans, cropped flare jeans, black leggings

From left to right: Mih cropped flare jeans, Topshop white jean shorts, Forever 21 ripped jeans, black flat-brim hat

outerwear

black sweatshirt, black puffy coat

From left to right: Champion black sweatshirt, Mountain hardware black puffy coat, flat-brim black hat

accessories

black flat-brim hat, pink bandana, mustard Beaded by W tassle earrings, gold Mango hoops, black round cocktail ring, black long cocktail ring, wooden bangles 

Clockwise: wooden bangles, Mango gold hoops, black cocktail rings, Beaded by W mustard tassels, black flat-brim hat

the extras

3 gym outfits, wedding outfit, sleep wear, Rails striped beach cover-up, bathing suit 

Private Party one-piece custom bathing suit, Rails bathing suit cover-up

How I'm layering

My puffy coat can work over any of the tops I've chosen, and I can also add the sweatshirt between the two layers if it gets extra cold. 

I've also packed my go-to Tecovas boots to make the transition from warm to cool seamlessly. I wear these boots year-round, so they'll be perfect with my white shorts and striped Rails top or with my ripped jeans, sweatshirt and gold hoops in Maine. 

In addition to the outerwear, I've added my wool hat to the mix, which adds a touch of style to my warm weather looks and a bit of warmth to my cool weather outfits. 

And remember, keep it simple. Don't overthink this. Your style is all about you, and if you're sticking within your color palette, individual style, and shapes that fit your body type, pieces in your wardrobe will naturally flow together. Understanding these key parts of your style will make it easier, less time consuming, and more fun to pack in the future. 

Want me to help you pack for your next trip? Let's chat. Your wardrobe and style are unique, and I would love to help you fill a suitcase with outfits you'll love throughout your whole trip. 

The Greer Guide to Austin: Limbo Jewelry

When it comes to shopping local, the famous South Congress stretch of buildings is home to as many stories as it is retail gems. Perennial favorite Limbo Jewelry is quintessentially "Austin," and its origin story is rooted in lots of love and hustle. Co-owner Anne Rutt-Enriquez didn’t even have pierced ears until after she met her husband, Edson Enriquez, co-owner and in-house jewelry designer, yet the duo are arguably setting the pace (and the trends) for Austin-based jewelry designers and style.

Originally from Guadalajara, Mexico, Enriquez took a metalsmithing class as part of his university coursework. The women in his classes fawned over his designs, yet when he moved to the U.S. in 2004, landing in San Antonio to be closer to family, he was told his jewelry was “too weird” and that he should try selling in Austin, where his pieces might fit in better with the city’s aesthetic. He borrowed a table from his mom and set up shop at the first Thursday art events in the dirt lot next to what is now the business owners' brick-and-mortar flagship, and Limbo Jewelry was born.

What To Expect at Limbo Jewelry:

• a collection of local Austin makers’ jewelry and accessories 
• in-house jewelry designs that fit for any occasions
• Texas-themed gifts, housewares, and irresistibly fun tchotchkes
• works by Austin artists, both inside and outside their two locations

While Enriquez was setting up his first table of jewelry, Rutt-Enriquez was waiting tables at Vespaio. The two soon met and started dating, sharing their first kiss in that same dirt lot where the art market took place. They took the plunge full-time with the jewelry business together in 2008, and in the 10 years that followed, Limbo has grown from a studio in East Austin to a tiny 400-square-foot retail space downtown to what is now their flagship store. Both the shop and their love story have come full-circle, back to the 1600 block of South Congress where it all began.

The couple opened a sister concept store, Triple Z Threadz, next door in 2015, and added a second location at the Domain in November 2017--establishing them firmly in the local Austin retail scene. Their current number-one seller at Limbo is the silver lariat necklace in brushed Italian silver: it’s as versatile as it is stylish, and its goes-with-everything appeal is the "Austin look" in one sleek accessory. 

The husband-and-wife team are always scouting for new vendors to stock, and they look for pieces they both genuinely love that fit within the Limbo vibe. Local favorites Betty Alida and Hatton Henry are among their growing lineup of Austin design talent. When recruiting for positions at their retail shops, Rutt-Enriquez recalls her days as a server at Vespaio, saying that they look for people who are good with customers and don’t think twice about going above and beyond. “We hire for the hustle,” she says. 

Now we want to know...
What is your favorite boutique in Austin? Leave us a comment below and tell us which Austin shop you'd love to see on The Greer Guide to Austin.

You can visit Limbo at www.limbojewelrystore.com or in person at their two locations at 1604 S. Congress Ave. and at 3211 Palm Way #152 in the Domain.

The Greer Guide to Austin is a bi-weekly column written and photographed by Liz Feezor of Liz Feezor Creative. 

Greer Image Consulting loves supporting local small businesses and Austin brands that celebrate individual style and our community. To celebrate your unique style and for more information on Greer Image Consulting services, click here and book a 1-on-1 call with Raquel.

8 Ways To Style Your Top And Pant Set This Summer And Fall

As summer comes to a close, everyone seems to be flocking to malls and hitting up Amazon’s Prime Day in order to get in on the last of the summer trends. One trend exploding both in stores and on social media is the matching set. Printed tops and shorts can be spotted everywhere from music festivals to summer weddings. We’ll always look back on head-to-toe prints as part of the Summer 2018 look.

Here are 8 ways to maximize this trend for late summer and bring this bold look into early fall:

Stick with the set.

It’s important to not overpower the full set with busy accessories, so for this silky printed long-sleeve/pant combination, I’ve paired a white clog – my favorite shoe right now. These heels pick up the bright white in the floral print to enhance the set, while still playing a supporting role through their simplicity.

Switch up the top

Add your personality to the look by unbuttoning the set top and adding a graphic tee or plain top underneath. By unbuttoning the top, you’ve now converted it to a light-weight summer jacket. Tie up the tee and add a structured bag to complete the look.

Add a neutral top

Ditch the band tee and add a neutral top for a sleek, downtown look. I picked a form-fitting tank top to coordinate with the color palette of the set and balance the billowy nature of the pant. If you’re an hourglass or pear shape, try a summer set with high-waisted pants like these to highlight your shape and curves.

Set them apart

While there are several ways to style the set as a whole, there are many outfits you can create using just one piece of the set. With the right finishing details, like these nude open-toe heels and white power blazer, the pants alone can take you from the office to an after-work networking event.

Make it daytime

A floral printed pant is perfect for a day of shopping with friends or attending a birthday brunch, because the pattern plays into the lighthearted and fun filled events. Pair your pant and tee with a nude flat to add a comfortable and practical touch.

Ditch the pants

Styling the shirt in different ways can shift the overall vibe of the look and give the outfit a more put-together feel. Tie up the shirt up with a high-waisted skirt or pant to add a feminine and flirty touch. Tuck in half of the shirt to add the trendiest tuck of the season.

Rock the blouse with a neutral bottom like this white denim skirt or ripped boyfriend jeans. I finished the look with a small hip belt to make the outfit classic and polished.

Bring in the essential

No outfit roundup is complete without a good pair of jeans. I paired the top of the set with bootcut, cropped jeans I found at a thrift shop. The button-down is perfect to throw on over an outfit for a night at a rooftop bar. A pair of playful sunglasses are an easy way to complete the look.

Now we want to know...
What is your favorite trend this summer?  Leave us a comment below to share the piece(s) you've loved to wear this season. 

About Bailey Bosworth

A California native, Bailey uprooted her life in Los Angeles and moved to Austin last fall, site unseen. She immediately fell in love with her new city and the quirky different styles found in the Live Music Capital of the World. Prior to moving to Austin, she interned at both Trunk Club and The Zoe Report where she learned the in's and out's of the fashion scene. With her newfound residence in Texas, she continues to evolve her style and pursue her passion for the fashion industry. 

The Greer Guide to Austin: The Art of Shoes

Tucked in a shaded grove of trees on South 1st, in a 1920s pink and white bungalow with a sherbet-hued sidewalk leading up to it, Selena McCartney has built a shrine to every shoe-adoring woman’s dream. Part retail space, part workshop, the ART of SHOES is more an interactive experience than a transactional one. From the collection of vintage designer gems to the gallery setup of contemporary offerings, McCartney’s taste is evident in every selection and corner of the shop, and her immersive approach to the art of shoes is just, well, art. 

A shoe designer for over 15 years (her bona fides include Steve Madden, Katy Perry and Teysha, among others), McCartney has created a dreamlike museum for shoes. The shop is as much an homage to the craft it is as a well-rounded retail space: Stepping into shop, the "Carrie Bradshaw’s closet" vibe of it all elicits a smile. Store manager Deitra Ramos worked in fashion merchandising prior to coming on board, and her enthusiasm for shoes and "playing dress-up," as as she calls it, is infectious. 

What to Expect at the ART of SHOES: 

• a curated, yet well-rounded collection of contemporary trend shoes, in a range of price points 
• a "best-of" from local favorites Suavs and Teysha
• an impressive collection of vintage designer pumps, sandals and sneakers
• a shoe-shopping experience that is undeniably fun (and perhaps dangerous for die-hard shoe fans)

In a space steeped in creative immersion, mood boards and sketches hang among framed art on the shop’s walls, and a luxe, oversized green ottoman invites customers to have a seat and try on a pair (or five) of the shop’s best sellers and current favorites.

With a selection that would make even a seasoned shoe collector swoon, McCartney and Ramos are truly elevating the art of shoes in Austin. Now offering classes, shoe lovers can participate in the process themselves: recent offerings include sneaker making and shoe painting classes, with additional courses planned for the future.

Now we want to know...
What is your favorite boutique in Austin? Leave us a comment below and tell us which Austin shop you'd love to see on The Greer Guide to Austin.

The Greer Guide to Austin is a bi-weekly column written and photographed by Liz Feezor of Liz Feezor Creative. 

Greer Image Consulting loves supporting local small businesses and Austin brands that celebrate individual style and our community. To celebrate your unique style and for more information on Greer Image Consulting services, click here and book a 1-on-1 call with Raquel.

The Trendiest Bag of Summer 2018 Is The Straw Bag

If you’re anything like me, you’re watching Season 2 of the summer’s hottest Netflix show, "Queer Eye." Each episode is dedicated to making over one person’s life and look — grooming, cooking, home design, culture and fashion included. Tan France, the show’s fashion guru, always finds ways to refine the person’s clothing choices while staying true to the individual’s personality. The relationship between style and identity that Queer Eye points out inspired me to revisit my closet last weekend and analyze which pieces make me feel most like myself.

After a brief but thorough assessment of my closet, I recognized that handbags are an essential aspect to any look I’m creating.

The perfect bag has the ability to really pull an outfit together, but this season’s hottest trend bag, the straw bag, does so like none other. Seen on celebrities and social media influencers alike, the wicker/woven/rafia bag trend can be found at local shops and department stores alike and screams “summer."

This piece is not just for the beach. It’s much more versatile than that and can easily be incorporated into your everyday look.

THE OCCASION: Casual Saturday

Whether your Saturday consists of running errands or meeting friends for lunch, a straw bag is the perfect complement for your look.

To highlight the bag, I paired a simple white tee with gingham shorts. I tied the tee up for a fun and flirty touch. The details on the structured shorts gave the look a romantic flair as well, without overwhelming the texture of the bag. To finish the look, I added a pair of ankle-strap kitten heels.

The result was a perfectly balanced Saturday ensemble to leave me feeling trés chic all day long.

bags to shop

folk fortune bali rattan bag from Madewell.com

cylinder woven crossbody bag from Nordstrom.com

THE OCCASION: HAPPY HOUR

Pop your clutch off an outfit that will make the transition from the office to girls’ night out seamlessly: a jumpsuit. The vertical stripes in this Forever 21 jumpsuit create an elongated silhouette, while also playing into the pattern of the woven bag. For a softer look, you can also pop your straw clutch off a muted jumpsuit in trend colors like lavender or blush. Both the striped and solid options work well to balance the lightness of the straw bag.

Pro tip:

To enhance your look, always add accessories that fit with the rest of the outfit. For this jumpsuit, I added simple, silver hoop earrings and reworked the purse by turning it into a clutch for the night. These two elements are clean, fresh and perfect for a night out.

bags to shop

urban renewal remade small straw handbag from UrbanOutfitters.com

fernanda woven basket bag from Anthropologie.com

DATE NIGHT

This summer outfit is easy as pie to pull together. All you need is a printed dress! Any floral dress will work. This particular dress is a wrap. Wrap dresses work for every body type, and for my shape, it’s able to emphasize the curve of my waist.

Like the striped jumpsuit, the bold pattern balances the architecture and simplicity of the neutral bag.

Throw on a pair of heels and you’re ready for the evening!

Now we want to know! Leave us a comment below and share your favorite way to rock your summer woven bag. 

About Bailey Bosworth

A California native, Bailey uprooted her life in Los Angeles and moved to Austin last fall, site unseen. She immediately fell in love with her new city and the quirky different styles found in the Live Music Capital of the World. Prior to moving to Austin, she interned at both Trunk Club and The Zoe Report where she learned the in's and out's of the fashion scene. With her newfound residence in Texas, she continues to evolve her style and pursue her passion for the fashion industry. 

The Greer Guide to Austin: Prototype Vintage

Audrie San Miguel knows good vintage. A self-described lifelong vintage lover, and with beginnings in a rented space within Room Service Vintage back in the ‘90s, San Miguel has been a part of the Austin vintage scene for nearly two decades. As the owner of Prototype Vintage since 2005, she’s cultivated an Austin retail mainstay.

An Austinite for 25 years, San Miguel came from humble beginnings. Raised in a low-income family in Corpus Christi, thrifting and repurposing items were concepts and skills she grew up with. She prides herself on Prototype’s mantra of “all killer, no filler!” as San Miguel and her staff strive to create a vintage selection that is well-curated, well-priced, and well-rounded. She has created a space in which there is so much (Prototype Vintage now occupies 1,600 square feet of space!), yet it still has an intimate feel of an impeccably curated vintage lover’s closet. From vintage tees to shoes and accessories to dresses and jumpsuits and now with a selection of vintage children’s clothing, there is literally something for everyone in the shop. When asked for a current favorite piece, San Miguel was hard pressed to choose just one.

Prototype Vintage has been in its current space for more than 13 years, and has witnessed the boom that Austin has experienced in that time along. Feathers Vintage opened up adjacent to Prototype at around the same time -- the shops were in fact originally part of the same space, separated only by a beaded curtain. The evolution that the neighborhood and the shop itself has undergone in the last decade-plus is astounding, and Prototype continues to grow and change along with its surroundings.

Prototype started out selling predominantly vintage furniture and housewares, with only a tiny clothing selection. As San Miguel learned her market and discovered what sold the best, Prototype Vintage slowly became a mecca for almost exclusively vintage clothing. Prototype got into events styling for the music and film industries (San Miguel’s husband is an Austin music industry paragon and co-creator of seemingly sadly defunct Fun Fun Fun Fest). Though she still does some events styling here and there, San Miguel is very selective about the projects she undertakes, with the majority of her focus on sourcing and merchandising for the shop itself.

With its signature lime green, can’t-miss-it storefront just steps from the constant bustle of South Congress, the ladies of Prototype Vintage are functionally ambassadors for the city of Austin, and it’s a role they happily embrace. A constant stream of tourists, locals, and the occasional celebrity come through the shop, and San Miguel and her staff are happy to answer questions about what to eat, where to catch a live show, and point customers to other vintage shops in town to find some treasures.

Prototype Vintage has has become a vintage shop that sets the trends rather than follows them. Their devotees know they can always come in and find something they adore, and the thrill of the hunt for stellar vintage style is a labor of love for Audrie San Miguel.

NOW WE WANNA KNOW, WHERE ARE YOUR FAVORITE SPOTS TO SHOP? LEAVE A COMMENT BELOW AND TELL US YOUR FAVORITE AUSTIN BOUTIQUE.

The Greer Guide to Austin is a bi-weekly column written and photographed by Liz Feezor of Liz Feezor Creative. 

Greer Image Consulting loves supporting local small business, and vintage style is a daily dose of self-expression that is truly unique, sustainable, and supports a network of men and women committed to bringing the best of past style into your wardrobe. 

How To Pack: Miami Edition

When I found out I was headed to Miami during the first weekend of June to celebrate my dad's milestone birthday, I was beyond excited. 

A few days at the beach is something we could all use every once in a while, and, for this trip, I was even more ecstatic to dress for it. 

Miami is a culturally rich, undeniably colorful town with tons of energy. Your wardrobe should reflect the city you're going to, and this one was no exception for me. 

To start the packing process, I made a mental agenda of all the activities I would be doing. For 2 nights and 3 days in Miami, the list was short, but just as important to prep for as my 13 day trip to Europe. 

Here's what was on the list: 

• Friday plane ride

• Friday dinner at OLA

• Saturday pool & beach hangout 

• Saturday lunch at Malibu Farm

• Saturday dinner at Byblos

• Sunday brunch at Stiltsville Fish Bar

• Sunday plane ride

When packing, I plan out my outfits in chronological order of when the events will be taking place to ensure I didn't forget any activity. 

So to start, I picked my plane outfit. Comfort is key for a plane outfit, but that doesn't mean you have to sacrifice style. 

FRIDAY

Plane Outfit: Leather High-Waisted Shorts, Neon Crop Top from Beehive Boutique, Vince Leather Slides, Straw Flat-Brimmed Hat

I chose this look to mimic the flashiness of Miami (leather & neon), so upon arrival, I would feel present in my environment and excited for what was to come. 

Next I put together my dinner look for Ola. 

For this look, I wanted something light-weight and easy to throw on after being tired from travel, so I packed my spaghetti-strap high-low black dress I got this winter from Estilo at Le Garage Sale. 

A candid shot of me and my mom at the dinner at Ola. Pictured is my statement necklace and earrings to compliment to simplicity of the black high-low dress. 

I complimented the simplicity of the dress with a bold gold and hot pink necklace, and finished the look with my Anthropologie statement earrings. For the shoe, I chose gold Schutz platforms from Revolve.

DINNER OUTFIT: black dress, statement necklaces, statements earrings, black clutch, black heels 

SATURDAY

If you use your swimsuit often (like I do), it can easily wear out and stretch, so I was in need of a new one for the trip. 

I decided to go big and bold with the one I purchased, a personalized one-piece from PRIVATE PARTY.

To finish the look, I added a simple striped cover-up by Rails and my Vince black sandals.

The restaurant we went to for lunch was right next to the pool, so I just threw on my cover-up and was ready to dine.

SATURDAY POOL & Lunch OUTFIT: SWIMSUIT, COVER-UP, SLIDES

Saturday dinner was all about celebrating my dad, so I chose something glitzy to feel party-ready and excited for the event. 

My sister-in-law and I before we headed out to dinner at Byblos

SATURDAY DINNER OUTFIT: aLICE & oLIVIA MINI DRESS FROM REVOLVE, POUR LA VICTOIRE PLATFORM HEELS, BLACK STATEMENT EARRINGS

Style Tip: Mix n' match old pieces with new. While my sequin dress was a 2018 purchase, these shoes have been a staple in my wardrobe for 7+ years.

SUNDAY

It was time to say goodbye to the weekend, but not without a delicious brunch from Stiltsville Fish Bar. 

For this look, I went super casual and comfortable because I knew we would be going from the restaurant straight to the airport. 

SUNDAY BRUNCH/PLANE OUTFIT: TOPSHOP WHITE JEAN SHORTS, GOLD HOOPS, RAILS STRIPED BUTTON DOWN, VINCE BLACK FLATS

Now I would love to know! What pieces do you love to pack for a weekend getaway? Leave me a comment below and tell me. I would love to hear from you!

The Greer Guide to Austin: Pieceology Vintage

“We travel, some of us forever, to seek other places, other lives, other souls.”

-Anais Nin

For April Onebane, the path to becoming one of Austin’s best-known vintage sellers was one of serendipity. She’d traveled to Italy in 2016 for a social media workshop put on by Justina Blakeney of Jungalow fame, searching for inspiration for her fashion blog and, as she tells it, for her next move in life. 

She met a woman at the workshop who was launching a vintage sourcing business and the two became fast friends, staying in touch after Onebane returned to Austin. Disenchanted with her corporate day job and remembering her mother’s words to her during that fateful trip to Europe, encouraging her to open a vintage shop of her own some day, Onebane decided to go for it, and Pieceology Vintage was soon born.

Her past life in marketing may have informed her future as a small business owner, but it certainly didn’t define it. Onebane’s love of travel and adventure-seeking is palpable in her vintage selections, sourcing from her original connection in Cinque Terre, Italy, Indonesia, and practically every other place she’s has visited since her Europe trip in 2016.

With her hand in several vintage-centric projects, Onebane, along with Maria Oliveira and Ryan Lerma of Passport Vintage, runs Laissez Fair, Austin’s premier bi-annual vintage pop-up market. She travels regularly, having just returned from an extended trip in the U.S. and British Virgin Islands with her partner in life and in business, Jake Pritchard. The two created and co-run Adventure Assist, a travel journal company dedicated to helping fellow travelers efficiently plan, organize, and remember life’s biggest adventures.

When asked about her shop’s most popular pieces, Onebane didn’t hesitate in proclaiming, “White crop tops!” Sourced from Austria, the vintage crisp, white cotton pieces are tremendously popular among her clientele: when she posts on Instagram that she has some available, they sell out almost instantly. Though she describes her own style at Pieceology’s initial launch as, “Boho chic… kind of a Coachella vibe that was popular at the time,” nowadays she calls her own style “more ‘feminine romantic’ than anything else.”

Onebane has created a name for herself in the Austin vintage scene, and she’s done it without ever having opened a brick-and-mortar shop, which is part of what she attributes the success she’s seen with her business. Without the overhead of a permanent physical storefront, and with the freedom to sell vintage online, at pop-ups, and residences at other shops around town (she’s currently in residence at Aro on East 5th), Onebane loves the flexibility her nomadic professional lifestyle affords her. 

A forever traveler and lifelong explorer, April Onebane has mastered the art of “pretending I’m an extrovert,” she joked. If style itself is a community, then vintage style is truly some of the best people around.

NOW WE WANNA KNOW, WHERE ARE YOUR FAVORITE SPOTS TO SHOP? LEAVE A COMMENT BELOW AND TELL US YOUR FAVORITE AUSTIN BOUTIQUE.

The Greer Guide to Austin is a bi-weekly column written and photographed by Liz Feezor of Liz Feezor Creative. 

Greer Image Consulting loves supporting local small business, and vintage style is a daily dose of self-expression that is truly unique, sustainable, and supports a network of men and women committed to bringing the best of past style into your wardrobe. 

3 Easy Outfits For The Office This Summer

Keeping cool in your summer workwear often means working with fewer articles of clothing in your outfit.

You might need to ditch your jacket or cardigan, which means your office look can suffer, becoming boring or stale. 

But fear not! Playing with color, style, and bold details can save your personal style this summer and allow you to create eye-catching looks you'll love for the office.

Here are three ways to make your office outfit pop during the heat ahead:

Pop one color off another. 

To do this, look at the characteristics of one color and match it to a similar type of color. For example, this coral red is bright and clear, so I paired it with bright and clear turquoise accents. They both balance and enhance each other.  

Photography by Natalie Beurskens

Go bold with shoes!

Don't be afraid to invest in a colorful and eccentric pair of shoes this summer. Approach them the same way you would jewelry, and partner the bold color to your clothing.

Express yourself!

Don't be afraid to pronounce your personality in your workwear. It's an easy way for people at the office to get to know more about your unique and outgoing self. As long as you're within the dress code, you can run with the color and style of your look. 

Play with pattern!

It's a common misconception that two patterns are always too much in an outfit. In actuality, two patterns can enhance each other and your outfit. To make sure you're mixing properly, stick to circular patterns or straight lines in both patterns. Below you can see the arrows in my belt pop the arrows in my dress making the look more put together and polished. 

Celebrate your curves. 

Your body is beautiful, so don't be afraid to show it off. Highlight your waist with a neutral or statement belt. This touch won't add a lot of weight to your summer look, but it will add lots of personal style.  

Have fun with your neutrals.

Neutrals often get a bad rap for being boring, but on the contrary, they can be tons of fun any time of year! The key to making them as bold as colors is how you pair them. Try an unexpected combination like black and brown or navy and black. The combination will make your look more exciting and unexpected. 

*Note: If your office is traditional business casual, add a blazer to cover your arms and complete the look. 

Play with subtle and strong details.

Most of your office outfits should balance power and approachability. To do this, pop a light piece off your neutral darks. The light (blush in my case) will give any look a friendly touch, while the dark supports your serious business side. 

Never leave the house without them. 

Accessories, of course! These bad boys will show off the fact that you're detail-oriented, so never forget them. Link your jewelry to any part of your outfit by matching its color to the clothing item. For example, my blush duster is light and soft, so I chose a light and soft heather grey tassel to play into the color. 

Go DIY with your look!

I'm going to let you in on a little secret...this duster actually started it's life as a dress! And you can do the exact same thing! Get creative not only by how you pair, but how you re-purpose items in your closet. Open up a button-down dress and make it into a light-weight jacket to finish a simple summer look. 

Enjoyed this article? Leave a comment below and tell us how you love to mix up your outfit for summer. 

The Trendiest Color Of Summer 2018 Is Mustard Yellow

Mustard, not just a very delicious condiment (if I do say so myself), is a color that’s taking this summer by storm. This sunshine-infused trend is lining the walls of retail establishments and infiltrating our Instagram news feeds. In short, it’s everywhere.

While this bold hue can feel daunting to take on, fear not. It’s oh-so possible, and not only that, it’s simple. Here are a few ways to incorporate mustard yellow into your hot weather wardrobe.

SHOES

A girl can never have too many, right?

I take pride in my shoe collection - the sneakerhead in me will always find an excuse to add new tennis shoes to my closet, but heels are my weakness. When I found these yellow gems, I just had to get them -- they are extremely versatile and add a pop of fun to all the outfits I pair with them. Add cropped, high-waisted jeans and a white blouse for the perfect look for a summer day in Austin or a sheath dress and blazer for a classic office look.

Here’s a few options to satisfy your yellow shoe needs:

PUMPS

COURTESY OF ZARA

MULES

COURTESY OF DSW

BLOCK HEELS

COURTESY OF ALDO

JACKETS

Let’s dive a little deeper into the trend with my current outerwear obsession: summer-weight jackets. This cropped, peplum jacket is one of my favorite pieces in my closet. It’s fitted, yet comfortable, which allows me to run around the city looking polished. I’ve paired it with a floral romper, that has hints of yellow in the print which tie into the jacket and pull the look together. Pieces like this are full of character and can make even your simplest outfits stand out. Throw it on over a monochromatic look for brunch on South Congress or a show at the Paramount. 

 A few options for your closet:

POWER BLAZER

COURTESY OF ZARA

JEAN JACKET

COURTESY OF JOE'S JEANS

PEPLUM JACKET

COURTESY OF ZARA

BAGS

Adding a pop of yellow to any outfit doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Even something as small as a mini bag can add a bold statement to your look. I decided to don an all-white look and added a bright yellow purse with silver hardware for a touch of energy and fun.

STUDDED BAG

COURTESY OF ZARA

CAMERA BAG

COURTESY OF MARC JACOBS

WALLET BAG

COURTESY OF ANTHROPOLOGIE

CIRCLE TASSEL BAG

COURTESY OF NORDSTROM

Now we want to hear from you! Leave us a comment below and tell us your favorite yellow piece from your current closet. 

Happy summer — be sure to shine!

About Bailey Bosworth

A California native, Bailey uprooted her life in Los Angeles and moved to Austin last fall, site unseen. She immediately fell in love with her new city and the quirky different styles found in the Live Music Capital of the World. Prior to moving to Austin, she interned at both Trunk Club and The Zoe Report where she learned the in's and out's of the fashion scene. With her newfound residence in Texas, she continues to evolve her style and pursue her passion for the fashion industry. 

The Greer Guide to Austin: The Special and Powder Vintage

In an unassuming storefront nestled within the bustling bar and restaurant scene of East 6th, husband and wife team Hannah Wood and Johnny Ogle have created something, well, special.

A physical embodiment of creative collective intelligence, The Special captures the spirit of ‘Austin cool’ with a blend of vintage furniture and decor, gifts, and, now, a killer vintage wardrobe.

Powder Vintage has taken an in-house residence within The Special's retail space, the latest brick-and-mortar iteration of the vintage shop that has been selling on Etsy since 2009.

Its doors open for nearly nine months, The Special is the brainchild of an impossibly cool couple with a shared love of design. Originally from L.A., Wood and Ogle moved to Austin two years ago in search of inspiration and the ideal place to create their dream retail space: a place that’s happy, visually compelling, highly curated and thoughtful, and high-end yet approachable. 

It’s this element of ‘attainable retro-cool’ that they’ve cultivated in their East Austin flagship that makes it the perfect backdrop to Powder Vintage, a menagerie of vintage clothing that transcends time, trends, and occasion. With each piece hand-selected by Powder Vintage’s owner, Karla, the vintage clothing selection within The Special elevates the ‘shop within a shop’ concept to stunning new heights. The range and broad selection of incredibly well-preserved vintage clothing that Powder Vintage has curated is, in a single word, impressive. Karla's favorite piece in her collection for the shop is a cropped crochet jacket from early 1900s Ireland, a testament to the level of quality of the pieces Powder Vintage seeks for its shop.

With her start in vintage reselling in her hometown of Monterrey, Mexico in the mid-‘90s, Karla’s experience in the business runs deep. After selling two vintage shops she started (the first in Monterrey in 2003; the second in San Antonio in 2008), she moved to Austin in 2009, selling vintage wholesale both online and to shops around town. After buying a piece from Karla at the Citywide Garage Sale over a year ago, Wood and Ogle invited her to sell her clothing at The Special, and a match made in vintage lover’s heaven was born.

Wood’s current favorite piece at The Special is a bright red iron candlestick holder; a piece whose identical twin went to Leslie Hernandez at Aro, where Passport Vintage used to reside. It’s another example of the Austin vintage community supporting one another, both financially and philosophically. When asked if there’s any commingling between Powder Vintage and The Special in terms of merchandising, Wood laughs knowingly, saying that she and Ogle “literally can’t go to the bathroom without trying something on!”

Now we want to hear from you! Leave us a comment below and tell us your favorite place to shop in Austin.

The Greer Guide to Austin is a bi-weekly column written and photographed by Liz Feezor of Liz Feezor Creative. 

Greer Image Consulting loves supporting local small business, and vintage style is a daily dose of self-expression that is truly unique, sustainable, and supports a network of men and women committed to bringing the best of past style into your wardrobe. 

How To Wear A Blazer During The Hottest Months Of 2018

The Texas summer is almost here, which means it's time to think about exactly how you're going to dress for days and days of 100 degree heat. 

One issue many of us professional women face is balancing how to dress for the sizzling sun and the icebox of an office. Moving from one severe environment to the next makes it hard to craft an outfit that's successful in both places.

But there is one piece that will always save the day: the blazer. It's just as easy to throw on-and-off as a simple cardigan, and yet, this jacket does so much more than a cardigan ever could. 

It gives you power, structure and presence. It makes you meeting-ready and brings a pop of personality to your work wear. The blazer is the finishing touch any boss lady needs in her wardrobe. 

Which is why this week, I'm giving you 12 tips on how to add your blazer to outfits you'll love to wear all summer long.

12. Don't be afraid to stand out with a statement blazer. 

Blazers are powerful. Balancing that power with approachability is an easy way to craft a multifaceted personality at work. To do this, try incorporating a bright, light blazer like this coral one I'm wearing. 

In addition to building your image, the color will play into the fun of summer. 

11. Mix serious with silly by popping your light, bright blazer off of black separates. Add other touches of light, bright accessories/prints to play into the color of the blazer. 

10. Match your jewelry to the colors you're wearing. Choose rose gold for pink and red, silver for blue and purple or gold for yellow and orange. 

9. Use the pattern of your blazer to pop this year's trend color: white.

8. Pair the blazer with a sleeveless, sheath dress. When you take off the blazer outside, you'll be at the your coolest. When you head inside and throw it on, you'll be your most professional self for any important task or meeting. 

7. Mix texture. This will make your outfit more interesting, and it will make you look more interesting. 

6. Pair a longer blazer with a shorter dress (not too short though). A just-above-the-knee dress and a hip-length blazer will create ideal proportion making your look appear more stylish and put-together.

5. Don't put away your booties! Pop your booties off your shift dress and blazer combo to put these shoes to good use all summer long. 

4. Your go-to blazer is probably a tame color, which means it's the perfect pairing with your most eclectic jewelry. Together, this elements will create a balanced and expressive look. 

3. Just like the booties, don't be afraid to bring out your fall blazer during the summer season. Dark colors are authoritative, so blazers in evergreen, burgundy and plum will still hold up at the office during the summer and give your look power.

2. Pair your blazer with a jumpsuit! Jumpsuits are one of my favorite pieces for any office, because they are easy to style, and they are creative and professional. You also have a lot of freedom with the type of blazer you put with them. Add a cropped, long or boyfriend blazer for a look that's on point for summer. 

1. Remember, your style is as unique and powerful as you are, so always stay true to it and tell us about it!

Leave a comment below to share with us your favorite way to rock a blazer during the summer. We would love to hear from you!

The Greer Guide to Austin: Passport Vintage

To say that Maria Oliveira and Ryan Lerma know jeans would be an understatement. With the Instagram tagline “vintage jeans for modern butts," their vibrant blue brick-and-mortar arguably holds the best vintage denim collection anywhere, in Austin and beyond...

Having worked in retail management together and with a combined 14 years of retail experience, Lerma and Oliveira teamed up and went into vintage reselling together while still living in Chicago, where they relocated to Austin from in 2016. Though they considered other spots to make a move — L.A., Nashville, and Atlanta were on their list — they ultimately concluded, after much research and scouting, that Austin was the vintage capital of the U.S., and was where they could see their business grow.

It didn’t take long for Passport to develop a devoted following of vintage denim devotees: since Passport’s launch two years ago, it has transformed from an all-online sales platform to a stint in East Austin residency (its first physical iteration was in the second floor of Aro’s space on East 5th) to its current cool-hued digs on South 1st.

Specializing in vintage denim and t-shirts, Passport creates an experience in their shop, encouraging visitors to take in the ambiance that each separate room within the shop creates. With every piece in the store hand-selected by Oliveira and Lerma themselves, stepping in to Passport evokes the feeling of walking inside the home of an impossibly cool, undeniably fun friend with an eye for only the best in vintage. When it comes to sourcing, Lerma and Oliveira share an attitude of “anywhere and everywhere” to find those classic throwbacks that are forever in demand.

Beyond their bread and butter of vintage denim and tees, Oliveira and Lerma are very selective with any other pieces they bring in to complement the look they’ve cultivated for the shop. A mix of new and vintage accessories — which has included sunglasses, cameras, and shoes at different points in Passport’s lifetime — rounds out the outfits that make the shop’s Instagram feed a favorite among vintage fans worldwide.

Lerma and Oliveira tap into power that an inspiring physical space can have— and into the community that it can create. Longtime Instagram followers of the shop who come to Austin will make a point to visit the shop, and it’s this connection to their customers and their clothing that makes Passport an absolute must-visit.

NOW WE WANNA KNOW, WHERE ARE YOUR FAVORITE SPOTS TO SHOP? LEAVE A COMMENT BELOW AND TELL US YOUR FAVORITE AUSTIN BOUTIQUE.

The Greer Guide to Austin is a bi-weekly column written and photographed by Liz Feezor of Liz Feezor Creative. 

Greer Image Consulting loves supporting local small business, and vintage style is a daily dose of self-expression that is truly unique, sustainable, and supports a network of men and women committed to bringing the best of past style into your wardrobe. 

The Greer Guide to Austin : Coco Coquette

It’s a reliable rule of thumb in the fashion world that great style always comes with a compelling story. Austin is no stranger to either of these things, and the city attracts people with style (and stories) in spades. In just the last few years, those people have helped the vintage scene in Austin explode, flipping the script on what it means to look “current” or “modern” in today’s sartorial landscape dominated by fast fashion, with its oft-cookie-cutter looks and trends that burn brighter (and fizzle faster) than the latest flash-in-the-pan viral video sensation.

Their stories have shaped their successes; their visions are what breathes new life into small local business. 

In Austin, Texas, it’s not enough to just have style. You gotta have soul.

Coco Coquette  

2109 E Cesar Chavez St, Austin, TX 78702

Much like her outpost on East Cesar Chavez, Allyson Garro herself brings an element of fanciful glamour that is somehow, paradoxically, completely accessible. An L.A. transplant with five years of wardrobe experience under her belt, Garro wanted a departure from the high-stress life that "The Industry" comes with. After a lot of soul-searching (and a retail stint in New Orleans where she gained her chops in retail), she opened up shop in her current East Austin location nearly eight years ago.

Garro knew she wanted to create a space where people could come and be presented with everything they could ever want to costume themselves. Having been a part of the burlesque scene in both L.A. and New Orleans throughout the late nineties and early aughts, her shop is a clear manifestation of a combination of her experiences. 

““There’s something about putting a wig on that’s very disarming. It gives you permission to be someone else. I think it’s better than alcohol!””

— -Allyson Garro, Owner of Coco Coquette

With an infectious enthusiasm for playing dress-up, Garro lights up when talking about hosting events and “wig parties” at the shop: While wigs are the mainstay of her business, Coco Coquette offers a full costuming experience with a wide range of skincare and wellness products, an impeccably curated selection of vintage party-appropriate clothing, and all the accoutrements one could need to transform themselves into a vision of vintage romanticism.  

For Allyson Garro, style will always been deeply personal, and is influenced by her mood. She recalls a memory growing up, having missed the bus on a stressful morning of fourth grade and her mom having to drive her in to school. Her mom recognized that something was wrong due to her daughter’s silence throughout the entire ride, Garro finally mumbled something about hating what she was wearing. Her mother, understanding the feeling of just not feeling right in what she’d chosen to wear, turned the car around so her daughter could change into something that suited her that day. Style didn’t just influence her mood, it changed the way she thought about work and what her role could be in helping other people feel good about themselves. 

Glamour, as it turns out, is a language in and of itself. And after spending just a few minutes inside Coco Coquette, you’ll be speaking ‘glamour’ fluently.

Now we wanna know, Where are your favorite spots to shop? Leave a comment below AND TELL US your favorite AUSTIN BOUTIQUE. 

The Greer Guide to Austin is a bi-weekly column written and photographed by Liz Feezor of Liz Feezor Creative. 

Greer Image Consulting loves supporting local small business, and vintage style is a daily dose of self-expression that is truly unique, sustainable, and supports a network of men and women committed to bringing the best of past style into your wardrobe. 

1 Carry-On, 13 Days of Travel: Here's How I Did It

I like to pack light.

It makes sense for my travel style, because I hate lugging stuff around, and I also love the challenge of creating a tightly conceptualized wardrobe.

My belief is that you should always have fewer clothes in your closet, and use them to make more outfits. When I'm traveling, my suitcase is my closet on-the-go.

I recently took a 13-day trip to Europe for my honeymoon, and upon booking, I immediately decided I would take this opportunity to see exactly how much I could get out of and get into my CALPAK hard shell carry-on. 

Here's the approach I took when packing for this trip: 

1. Go with basics.

I'm a big fan of color, but I was worried I would get sick of color if I relied mostly on the usual brights I like to wear in spring. Instead, I choose black as the dominate color for the trip along with navy, taupe and white. While I craved color by the end of the trip, I was still completely satisfied what I had. 

Bavaria, Germany: Wearing my basic black top, black boots and jeans to see Neuschwanstein Castle. To make the neutrals more exciting, I paired my favorite silver hoops and wide-brimmed black hat.

2. Comfort is key. 

The look of a garment or shoe has historically been way more important to me than the comfort of it, but for this trip, there was no getting around the fact that I needed to be comfortable. 

We were going to be walking around Amsterdam, Munich and Berlin all day, every day, so I needed shoes that would support me in my journey. 

I decided to go with my Texas staple, Tecovas cowboy boots. I also invested in a new pair of lace-up military-style boots from Kork Ease.  

3. Know the weather. Know thyself. 

I'm lumping these two points together, because dressing for the weather isn't just about what people typically wear at certain temperatures. It's about knowing how you like to dress in any given weather. 

When I first started packing for this trip, I saw the average temperatures for Amsterdam, Munich and Berlin would all be around 55 degrees. I pulled out my Blank NYC suede moto jacket as the one-and-only honeymoon jacket.

Last minute I decided to swap this jacket for my full length cashmere, and boy am I glad I did! While the moto would have worked for some people, I'm a true Texan -- I get very cold very easily. 

Make sure to be honest with yourself about what you'll need to feel comfortable on vacation. While another person would've been fine in the moto jacket, my intuition told me to go with something heavier. Always trust your intuition.

4. Accessorize like it's nobody's business. 

If you're a client of mine or you frequently read this blog, you've probably heard me say that you must wear accessories with every outfit -- they're the icing on the cake and the way for everyone around you (personally and professionally) to understand you are detail-oriented and thoughtful. 

To keep my neutrals fresh on every day of the trip, I relied more on accessories than ever before! I packed A LOT of them, perhaps a few too many, but they lived up to their job. Each accessory I wore gave me a creative and bright pop to an otherwise simple, neutral canvas. 

A snapshot of the jewelry I packed for the trip. I included my wedding jewelry (bottom right) in the bunch for when I wanted a romantic touch to my look

Another handful of pieces I decided to take to Amsterdam, Munich and Berlin plus the gold hoops (top left) I purchased in Berlin

Taking the ideas above into account, here's what I packed for my 13-day trip:

1. BOTTOMS

• blue jeans, black jeans, black pencil skirt, Athleta Restore Jogger pant, 3 pairs of work out pants

2. Tops

• black v-neck dolman top, black turtleneck, taupe sweater, blush sweater, blue & white striped Rails shirt, 3 work out t-shirts

Munich, Germany: my Rails blue & white shirt paired with my wedding jewelry

3. Accessories

• black wide-brim hat, green beret, black knit scarf, black tights, black gloves, bathing suit, 3 sports bras, undergarments, handkerchief cotton scarf
   
• lots of jewelry -- see above for a snippet of what I brought

4. Shoes

• Tecovas cowboy boots, Kork Ease lace-up military-style boots, sneakers (for working out only)

And with all that in tow, I headed out to Europe for two weeks! Like any experiment, there are things that worked perfecting and others that didn't.

Day 1 in Amsterdam - All ready for cold weather

Here's what I learned from what I packed: 

1. Be realistic about what you will or won't do.  

I was tight with what I packed, but there were still a couple things I didn't end up needing:

• a bathing suit: I love to swim, but honestly, taking a swim at the hotel after eating brats and sauerkraut was not the most appealing activity. It didn't happen. 
   
• tights: I ended up not using these, because while I could shed other layers if I got hot, tights would have to stay on all day. I was worried I would get uncomfortable, thus they stayed in the CALPAK carry-on. 

2. Accessories are essential, but know your limits.

While every outfit needs accessories, I was sick of switching out accessories by the end of the trip just for the sake of switching. My favorite earrings are my big hoops, and I ended up wearing these 3 days in a row towards the end. I packed 7 pairs of earrings, and for future trips, I'm sticking to 3. 

3. I still had too much stuff! 

I know it sounds insane, but I really could have used only one pair of black pants (I packed black jeans and the Athleta Restore Jogger pants). Since they're both black, they essentially did the same job.

Amsterdam, Netherlands: One of the days I wore my black pair of pants. Upon looking back, I think I could have only packed one and would've been just fine on the trip.  

Amsterdam, Netherlands: Saying goodbye to Amsterdam and heading for Munich in my black pencil skirt and a top I picked up at a vintage shop in Amsterdam

Want to pack the perfect carry-on for your next trip? I can help with that! Simply book a call with me, so I can get to know you and your style better. From there, we'll set up a 90-minute session dedicated to building a suitcase filled with pieces you'll love to wear on your next trip. 

Where To Shop For The Perfect Wedding Dress in Austin, Texas

I'm getting married on March 31st, so to say the very least, I've got weddings on the brain. 

One of the biggest challenges to finding the perfect wedding dress in knowing where to start. Bridal boutiques are as varied in price point, style and aesthetic as other boutiques, so it can be hard to find the one that's right for you and your style. 

Luckily, I'm doing the legwork for ya. 

Check out my top 5 picks of where to shop for your wedding dress. No matter your style or age, you're sure to find something at one of these gems that will make you feel beautiful on your big day. 

BLUSH BRIDAL LOUNGE

Walking into this store is like walking into a bridal fantasy. It's simple stunning -- wall-to-wall dresses hand-picked by the owner, Erica Janke, and manager, Kristen Arriola, that create a collection unmatched by any other shop in Austin. Designers include the best in bridal such as Martina Liana, Enzoani, Eddy K, Elizabeth Dye, Lotus Threads, Carmen Marc Valvo and Mikaella Bridal. 

If you get the chance to work with Kristen or Erica, you are a lucky gal, because no one knows bridal like these two, which is very helpful when you've never been shopping for a wedding dress before. 

Blush Bridal Lounge is closed Sundays and Mondays, and by appointment only, so make sure to give them a call ahead of time to book at (512) 407-9236. 

This shop is good for you if:

• You want a luxurious bridal shopping experience
• Price point isn't much of a factor in choosing your dress
• You want the latest trends in bridal fashion
• You want to customize the dress to your liking (often times their dresses can be ordered in a different color than is featured in store) 

Images via @BlushBridalLounge on Instagram

KIRA KOUTURE

This isn't exactly a shop, but rather a custom bridal designer who is absolutely amazing at her work! While I didn't go custom, I worked with Kira to alter many parts of my dress: the bottom, top and back. 

images via @KiraKoutureATX Instagram

While some were for function (the bottom was too long) and some for fashion's sake (I brought down the top to give it a sexier look), she excelled at all the tasks I put in her hands. 

Kira has also made custom dresses for friends of mine, which have turned out beautifully. She is beyond creative, which means she'll help you explore what you want in a dress, so your vision comes to life through a dress that's perfect for you in every way. 

Custom dresses start at $1500, but honestly, that's pretty modest in the bridal world, so if you're looking to dabble in design, head to Kira! 

This shop is good for you if:

• You have a very specific idea of what you want for your dress
• You looked and looked and can't find the perfect dress
• You have vision when it comes to your style
• You want a dress that unique to you and only you  

bloom by blush

This boutique is exclusively for plus-size brides, which to say the very least, is amazing! Erica, the owner at Blush Bridal Lounge, also owns Bloom, so it's located in the same spot as Blush. 

One of the biggest issues with bridal shopping is that if you are plus-size, you often only get to hold up the samples to see how they might look, rather than try them on. This can make for a very disappointing shopping trip, but with Bloom, they have a plethora of dresses to try, so you can have a clear idea of how stunning you'll look on your big day.

Note*: They just moved both shops (as of 3/22/18) to 5501 N Lamar, so this is the perfect time to book an appointment and see the new digs! 

Designers like Stella York, Allure, Ashley & Justin, Callista Couture, Da Vinci, Hayley Paige and Moonlight Couture grace the walls of Bloom leaving you with so many beautiful, fashion-forward gowns to order from. 

This shop is good for you if:

• You're between a size 16 and 26
• You're looking to try on the dress of your dreams
• You're looking for a designer gown that won't necessarily break the bank
• You want a glamorous bridal shopping experience 

NEIMAN MARCUS

Now just hear me out on this one...

If you're a bride who's been married before or your wedding plans include escaping to Tulum or getting married in a chapel in Vegas, you may not want to go the traditional route.

Each woman's vision is different, which is why it's important to think outside of the box with where you shop for your wedding dress.

Neiman Marcus has a stellar collection of long and short cocktail dresses, and since it's spring, the colors out right now are light, bright and feminine -- perfect for an off the grid wedding. 

And one more thing... 

White is big this spring -- like HUGE! So if you still want to stick to white, but are looking for a short, less-formal wedding dress, this is also a great spot to stop into for a look.

No appointment necessary. Images via NeimanMarcus.com

This shop is good for you if:

• You don't want a white wedding dress
• You want a short wedding dress
• You want something no one attending your wedding will expect
• You want an off-the-rack gown

Second Summer Bride

Me after finding my favorite dress ever! 

This is where I got my dress, so I'm probably a bit biased, but honestly, Second Summer Bride is amazing! The shopping experience they provide is unmatched by any other boutique (bridal or not), I've ever been in to in my whole life. 

The women who works there are knowledgable, caring and genuinely listen to what you want, so that the dress you end up with makes you feel like a million bucks. 

The great thing about Second Summer Bride is that it's a bridal consignment shop, so the dresses are off the rack. You pick your dress, you pay for it, and you take it with you that same day.

A small percentage of the dresses are consigned by brides, but most of them come directly from the designer (overstock) or they're samples from larger bridal boutiques. 

Because it's a consignment shop, you're able to get dresses from some of the best designers in the bridal industry such as Hayley Paige, Justin Alexander, Lela Rose, Sally Eagle, Enaura, Val Stefanie and Jenny Packham. 

Second Summer is by appointment only and closed Sundays and Monday. To book, call them at (512) 419-9001, make sure to tell them Raquel sent you and ask to work with Natalie or Kara. You can thank me later. :) 

This shop is good for you if:

• You don't have a ton to spend on a dress (dresses start at $500)
• You don't have a clear idea of what you want and are open to exploring
• You don't mind a dress that's been worn before
• You like the satisfaction of walking out of the store with your dress in hand

SXSW Street Style 2018

This week, I headed out to South By to photograph my 3rd annual #SXSWStreetStyle report.

Before we get into all that jazz though, I thought it was pertinent to this article to share the mission of Greer Image Consulting.

So here it is...

---

I believe every woman is inherently beautiful and powerful.

Greer Image Consulting is dedicated to revealing this truth through what you wear every day of the week.

I celebrate women of all ages, religions, races, backgrounds, and beliefs through personal style.

I help you build a wardrobe that you can work with every day to style meaningful outfits. With it, you’ll gain the confidence and clarity to see that your style is a reflection of your deeply unique and creative self.

---

And with that, let's get into it, shall we? 

---

THE WOMEN OF SXSW

---

ivy roots | singer/songwriter

Why I love this look: The colors are anything but shy -- purple, blue, yellow and green. Even with so many pops, they're well balance by her neutrals: denim shorts, a brown bag and the black boots. And to top it of off, she's incorporated my favorite accessory, hoops. Each element is separate but they also seamlessly flow together to create an eclectic and effervescent look. 

Stephanie Forsythe | Event manager

Why I love this look: The type of glasses Stephanie is wearing are bold yet playful, but it's the shape that caught my eye and makes these the perfect expression of Stephanie's style. The roundness of the glasses plays into her Princess Leia-inspired double-bun up-do, which enhances both elements. The result is a look that's put-together and vibrant for the day of music ahead. 

cecy trebino | founder of Chicas rock -- a non-profit dedicated to empowering girls through music

Why I love this look: So often black is thrown on because it may appear that there's no other good option. Black, like any color, is one that you should wear only if you deliberately choose to wear it because it speaks to your personal style and the message you are trying to project.

In Cecy's case, I see the all black outfit as a deliberate choice, and I love it. It's a fierce and fresh urban look for a day filled with music. 

nicole cathey | barber

Why I love this look: This outfit has a little bit of everything -- business, basics and boots to pop it all. One of my favorite ways to wear a blazer is to repurpose it for casual occasions, and Nicole knocked it out of the park with this one. The ripped jeans create a Saturday vibe for any day of the week. The true star of this whole look is the boots. The combination of the color and sheen elevate the whole look, link back to her necklace and give the outfit a fierce finish. 

EMily jackson | bartender

Why I love this look: Embroidery is one of my favorite trends right now, which drew me to Emily's look initially, but it's really how Emily wears the shirt that makes it stand out. Emily styled her hair in soft waves that enhance the shirt. Both elements together play into her romantic personality and giving the whole look an unabashed feminine vibe. 

EMMA ADAMS | MUSICIAN IN BIG ORANGE BAND

Why I love this look: Each element of this outfit came together to highlight Emma. You can tell by her smile, she has such a bubbly energy about her, which is mimicked in her sun-yellow t-shirt. To finish the outfit, Emma paired her summer-weight shorts with ripped tights -- an appropriate choice for early spring weather and also undeniably creative, which makes sense since she's already tapped into her creativity through music. She popped the whole look by adding a warm, neutral walking shoe to contrast the black and add a utilitarian, no-nonsense touch to it all. 

VIOLET AND THE UNDERCURRENTS

Why I love this look: I wasn't planning on taking any action shots of musicians, but then of course, I found out Violet and The Undercurrents were an all woman band, so ya know...that's amazing. And their style exuded that. Each member of the band was dressed in minimalist fashion -- t-shirts, black pants, boots. But that's thing about fashion, it doesn't always have to be over the top to be wonderful. They were no frills, just music, and I loved every minute of the show.  

raquel greer gordian | founder of greer image consulting

Why I love this look: Because I chose it, of course! :) Like Emma and Laura, I picked this look to have something expressive for day and night. You can't see in this pic, but my dress has fringe all down the sleeves, so when it's hot, I take off the jacket and still love my look. When it cools down, I throw on this faux-fur suede jacket I've had for 10+ years to bring a sensual touch to the outfit.

Katrina Scheihing | barista

Why I love this look: Katrina pulled so many different textured pieces like sequins, denim and cotton to create this outfit, which is a great idea for spring. It's unclear whether it's going to be 60 degrees or 80 degrees on any given day, and even if she takes off the cardigan, she still has the ripped denim skirt and polka dot cross-body bag to let you know she's on trend. 

Talise manuel | musician

Why I love this look: I'm not even sure where to start, because honestly, I'm obsessed with every part of this -- including the boot. This look is the quintessential creative outfit. Why? Because nothing goes together, while simultaneously everything goes together and, in addition, each piece embodies Talise. I only met Talise for a minute, but you can feel that -- this look is authentically her. From the gold chains to the polka dot tank to black lip color to the paisley jacket, this outfit is about paying attention to each piece of an outfit that ultimately creates a functional piece of art. 

dominique blancas | student

Why I love this look: To start...these pants! On their own, these pants could go a multitude of ways: prep, classic, etc. But Dominique took them and ran with the look. By styling them with her graphic t-shirt and Vans sneakers, you can tell she's got a fun and humorous side to her. In essence, she knows how to play, and play she did! To create this daytime look that's perfect for SXSW. 

Laura Pittard | Marketing manager

Why I love this look: Style is about playing with nuanced messages within your clothing to create a look that's uniquely you. Laura achieved exactly that by creating an outfit thats both sweet with the lemon print and salty with the leather jacket and Doc Martens. Just like Emma, she chose tights to fit this unpredictable weather and can always take them off and still rock the look to adjust to a warmer day. 

chloe palmer | bartender

Why I love this look: I had to take a photo of Chloe's haircut, because well, it's bad ass. As I mentioned with Violet and the Undercurrents, fashion can be minimal and still exude style. Chloe had on a simple t-shirt, jeans and boots, but it's elements like this that let you know she's detail-oriented and a rebel at heart. 

DORI PURKS | NURSE

Why I love this look: As I mentioned with Cecy, it's important to be deliberate with what you choose to wear. It would be easy enough for Dori to have thrown on a black cardigan to finish this look, but she didn't. She chose to wear a smokey orange sweater. The result is that it plays into her beauty by highlighting her hair color and golden skin tone. 

NATALIE HANSON | BLOGGER

Why I love this look: The details is this outfit are what made me look twice. There's beaded-embroidery on her otherwise basic utility jacket, which give the whole outfit a color pop, and let you know that Natalie is mindful of the little things. The leather mule sandal and cut-off jeans also give the look an edgier finish that's both comfortable for walking around downtown and chic enough for a stop into a SXSW show. 

Janelle Kroll | MUSICIAN

Why I love this look: Janelle is a good friend of mine, so I got a bit more insight into this look than some of the others. She stopped into Austin while on a nation wide tour. The stop before Austin was NOLA. There, she picked up this vintage-inspired head piece, and I absolutely love it! It finished the look perfectly by balancing the sensual, daring and jazzy vibes of her outfit. 

ABI HAMMOND | BARTENDER

Why I love this look: One of my favorite things about SXSW is the diverse types of music you can enjoy during the event, and with Abbi's look, she embodies that pure rock n' roll style. Like Natalie's look, her style is in the details. The t-shirt and black skinny jeans are embellished with sky-high heels and plug earrings that make her look daring and downtown. 

Styling Trick: How to Keep Off - The - Shoulder Tops Off The Shoulder

Spring is just around the corner, which means it's the perfect time to bring out those off-the-shoulder tops again. But there's one pesky problem which always creeps up with this boho piece. 

Watch the video below to see how to keep your off-the-shoulder top off your shoulder and right in place. 

What to Wear for Valentine's Day 2018 →

Aaahhh...
VALENTINE'S DAY

...a day of chocolate, wine and some of my favorite sultry colors. All elements combined, it's up there as one of the best holidays/excuses to go out to dinner on a weeknight.

But there is still one question lurking...what wiiiiill you wear?

Luckily, I've got you covered.

In this week's #GreerGuideToStyle video I'm talking V-Day trends, unexpected items to wear on the 14th and how to pair statement shoes with every outfit. Watch below and celebrate your sexiest self. Because you deserve it, girl.