I look forward to the new catalog each season to see the unique styles. I love reading about the background that goes into each design, and it’s fun to hear about the inspiration that drove the designs.

In addition to vintage feel, I think one of the best features of this line is the mixture of silver and gold. Many styles are available in both. I went through my silver phase like everyone else. Believe me, there are certain pieces of silver jewelry that I’m very drawn to. Certain outfits just scream for a bold piece of silver jewelry.

But, I like to mix it up. I encourage you to embrace some gold in your wardrobe. Gold looks beautiful with warm colors; lately I like it with just about everything.

MEMO: Gold is everywhere and it is IN!

Rather than show individual pieces, I went to the S & D blog so you could get some ideas of how to wear the jewelry. Wow, look at these combinations. Stunning!

The Stella & Dot site is easy to navigate and the shop area is divided into category: Necklaces, bracelets, earrings and now even handbags!

There are great videos that show even more ideas. Don’t forget the sale category. I love the Cascading Chain and own the la Coco Chain  Both are winners.

Now to the Giveaway. Kyla is giving away a $25 Gift Certificate AND the Chloe necklace.

I will choose TWO winners. To enter, make a comment and tell us about your favorite piece of jewelry and why you love it. Contest ends Wednesday, February 8th at 9 PM PST.

My favorites? Too many to show. Last fall I did a Series What I Wore for a Week.  Almost every day I wore a little S & D. Many of those pieces are still available.

This year I want that statement necklace shown in the Casual Friday layout above. I also am very partial to the blue shown with tangerine in the Date Night layout. I am happy to answer any questions about the jewelry and please feel free to contact Kyla through her website.

I can’t wait to hear about your favorites!

Using a site called Polyvore, I like to show quick layouts of outfits so you could duplicate it on your own perhaps from other sources. It’s also a fun way to show merchandise from sites I would never go to or even know about if it weren’t on Polyvore. Sometimes the things are reasonably priced, other times not. The visuals come from all over and I like to show a little bit of everything.

If you didn’t like those ideas of color blocking, perhaps some pictures from stores you are used to shopping will give you a little different idea. Right now you can put Color Block in the search box of any major store and a number of designs will pop up.

From Nordstrom

         Caslon                                           Vince Camuto

           Eliza J                                             Bailey 44    

White House Black Market

What do I think? I’m not sure what I will choose if anything. I do like many of the color block styles. I like the way bold solid colors are mixed together. I like the fun patterns that created with creative color blocking. I think that many of the styles I have shown are extremely flattering–particularly the dresses.

Dark colors minimize. Color blocking can work to your advantage if you want to minimize a certain body part. The band of white around the Vince Camuto dress creates a more defined waistline just by varying the blocks of color. As one reader pointed out, this style is a great way to transition into pattern if that just isn’t your thing.

Perhaps this trend isn’t for you. You do not have to try every new trend that is out there.

What do you think? Will you give it a try this spring?

I’ve narrowed the search for you with these links: Nordstrom  Macy’s and DSW.

When you click on these links it will take you directly to those on sale. Zappos still had over 3000 on sale so I was not able to narrow that further.

Here are a few of my favorites. I listed the brand and style name in case you want to Google for price comparisons.

         Born   Delphini   $129                    Naya Dalia $166.90

Miz Mooz                                       Born Jailyn      $129.90                          

Vince Camuto: 159.90                              Via Spiga: 188.90

If you would like a little more info finding the right boot for your height and leg length, check out my friend Missy’s recent post.

By this time, some of you may be overwhelmed. Let me help. As a Giveaway, I’m offering TWO VIRTUAL BOOT CONSULTATIONS. Two winners will receive a FREE phone appointment. I will help you weed through the options while we’re both online and help you find the perfect boots.

 Make a comment by Tuesday, January 24th @ 9 PM PST and the winners will be chosen on Wednesday, January 25th.

Now it’s on to shoes. Last summer when I linked to the What Kate Wore website a reader asked about boat shoes. Kate had worn a pair of Sebagos during their trip to Canada and the US. She asked what I thought of these shoes and how to wear them. I admittedly was a little behind. I knew these shoes were making a comeback as my son had also asked for a pair of Sperrys, but I really had not fully embraced them as an upcoming trend.

Now you will see them everywhere–reminiscent of the 80s with a spin. Two tone, a little bling, bright colors…What do you think?

Sperry Top Sider is one of the main brands for boat shoes for men and women. You’ll see at Zappos there is much more–everything from a flat to boots. Check out all the options!

Boat shoes look great with a straight leg jean or casual pants that require a flat shoe. It seems to be just the right cut to show them off. Remember, as we get into spring straight cut jeans look great rolled which shows off the shoes even more. Some of you will like them a skinny jean, others think their feet and these shoes will stand out too much. I also think they will look great with a walking short in the spring/summer.

Thought it would be fun to show a little bit of spring. I would love to hear what you think and if you’ll add these to your spring shopping list.

For my annual Golden Globe post, I decided to divide it into categories. I liked many dresses this year, but I did not have an absolute favorite. As always, I try to come up with my own views before watching or reading any of the Fashion Police out there. We’ll see who agrees with me tomorrow!

Best Mermaid: Sofia Vergara

The Best in Pastels : Jessica Alba and Julie Bowen

Most Unique Style: Charlize Theron and Claire Danes

The Best in Red: Reese Witherspoon (was it just me? I didn’t love her hair tonight.)

Unique Color of the Evening: Zooey Deschanel

Best Newcomer: Viola Davis

Best Couple: George Clooney and Stacy Keibler

Didn’t Love it: Jessica Biel, Sarah Michelle Gellar, Julianna Margulies and Michelle Williams

Most Disappointing: Meryl Streep

I think she is a brilliant actress and have loved most everything she has done. I just don’t care for the way she dresses at awards shows.

 Did you have a favorite? What did you think of Brad and Angelina this year?

Photo Credits: thehollywoodreporter.com

After trying a number of retailers–both online and in store, I have decided to stay loyal to my favorite two sources for shoes: Nordstrom.com and Zappos.com. I’ve purchased elsewhere–trying to branch out. However, when it comes to customer service, return policies, choices for ALL feet, these two win HANDS DOWN! Let me remind you of some of the benefits:

-generous return policy. It’s 365 days for Zappos (even if worn) Anytime for Nordstrom–no questions asked. It is helpful if you have a tag, receipt or date to look up transaction.

-thousands of shoes to choose from in a variety of sizes and widths

-shoes that are in stock! If something isn’t available on Zappos, you can request an e-mail to be sent when they’re back. At Nordstrom, they will search all stores in the system. Even if it appears sold out online, write down the six digit number, call the store and a sales associate can look and do the sale over the phone!

-FREE SHIPPING BOTH WAYS! (If a Nordstrom store is not convenient they provide a PP label and return shipping is deducted from return) Read the small print. Recently I ordered elsewhere. So accustomed to Zappos I missed FREE EXCHANGES not FREE RETURNS. I was charged return shipping on a number of transactions.

These are my two sources and I’m sticking to them. I realize that readers with normal feet have many more choices. You will also be able to find some real shoe deals out there–Macy’s, DSW, Nordstrom Rack just to name a few.

Because of my foot issues, I feel a tremendous sense of accomplishment when I find something that works. I needed to replace my black boots and it was not easy to find the right thing even when that is the most common choice out there. I wanted comfort, style and something that could be worn with skirts AND with jeans tucked in.

I’ve never liked the chunky look of a Dansko! Hats off to all those in the medical profession who have to wear them for 12 hour comfort. But, honestly, just not my style.

Then I found the Dansko Brinkley . It was love at first try! I tried them on after a day on my feet (the best time to shop) and I was hurting. I put this boot on and instantly I was feeling better head to toe! They passed the 8 hour test. I can wear them all day and still feel great. They are on sale now at Zappos. Nordstrom also carried them, but from time to time, things temporarily are off their site and then come back. Also, did you know that if you see the same item on sale somewhere else, Nordstrom will always honor the price? Just ask!

Next I found these Softwalk Mika clogs by reading another blog. It would never have been something I would choose. I LOVE them. They also pass the 8 hour test

Last I found the Munro Veronica and ordered in WW (Horrors!) All three pairs fit my criteria:

-low heel but not a flat to fight off any heel pain

-roomy toe box to accommodate my bunions

-cushioned footbed and/or platform to keep pressure off the ball of the foot

So now I have black and gray outfits covered. I’m still struggling to find brown shoes I love. I love the challenge.

By some standards, I may have sacrificed my style a bit, but my feet are happy and that is important.

Next up: Boots on Sale

Let me know if you have found a killer deal you are willing to share with readers.

“Sophisticated but at the same time dramatic and seductive, Tangerine Tango is an orange with a lot of depth to it,” said Leatrice Eiseman, executive director of the Pantone Color Institute®. “Reminiscent of the radiant shadings of a sunset, Tangerine Tango marries the vivaciousness and adrenaline rush of red with the friendliness and warmth of yellow, to form a high-visibility, magnetic hue that emanates heat and energy.”

 I know what many of you are thinking… Orange… not ORANGE! I’ve found from working with many women that you either LOVE or HATE the color orange. Last summer I wrote about my journey with orange. The past year we have seen orange re-surface and we saw all sorts of shades. Personally, I’m partial to a softer coral rather than an overpowering fluorescent shade. But, I have to say that even the brighter shades are growing on me. I get so many comments when I wear orange.

Hands down, the biggest fear women have with orange is “it doesn’t look good around my face.”

I realize I cannot do an extensive color analysis with every person I meet when I am in a retail setting. However, I am often surprised at how quickly I can get an idea from carefully noting hair color, skin tone and eye color. Many women have warm colors in their eyes they have never noticed until I point it out. The trends in hair colors and highlights are definitely warm. Bottom line: Many of you will look great in the color orange.

Still skeptical? Here are some ways to work in tangerine tango into your wardrobe.

1. Start with very muted shades that do not overpower or separates with just a touch of orange.

2. If you have very fair skin, blue eyes, pink tones in your skin AND you are just scared of orange, start with a pinkish coral shade instead.

3. Add in orange with some accessories: handbags, shoes, a bracelet or even a little orange in multi-colored scarf.

4. Wear orange as a layering piece only

Are you getting tired or your winter clothes and need something to brighten your mood. Orange is the answer. Layer it under any neutral!

Caslon                                        Sanctuary                                  Bobeau

            Velvet Heart                                                                     Not Your Daughter’s Jeans

Nic and Zoe                              Trouve                                        Halogen

All photos from Nordstrom.com. Search the brand name for these styles and many more.

What do you think? Will you give orange a chance?

I hope you had a wonderful Christmas. All the best to you in 2012!

I also want to take this opportunity in my first post of the year to say THANK YOU for being faithful readers. Thanks for subscribing and recommending to others. Thanks for taking the time to write a comment. That is a blogger’s biggest compliment. It also lets me know that someone is out there reading, and quite frankly keeps me going.

It was 2 years ago this past November that Style by Karen was born. It’s hard to believe at times. I still enjoy blogging and the ideas are still coming. There are many fashion blogs out there. I try to be different. That being said, I love hearing from you and welcome topics YOU would like me to cover. I hope to hear more from you in 2012. I have a few new ideas up my sleeve and am anxious to share with you.

I start out the year with a snapshot taken of my family on Christmas Eve. It was a beautiful sunny day which is rare this time of year. My husband thought it would be great if we all “dressed up”. I doubted my teenagers would go for the idea, but they didn’t object. My youngest son even went to scope out some possibilities for the photo, and he came up with the colors. There was one problem. This was all decided one day while I was at work. I had NO INPUT whatsoever.

Some of you would probably welcome that. Me–not so much. I like putting the clothes together, and of course I think it should center around what looks the best on ME!  They all look good in most everything. We were not using a professional photographer this time–it was just a snapshot. I need all the help I can get. My “dream” color scheme centered around a new green jacket I love was not to be.

I was quick to point out that shades of blue, black and gray would not be conducive to the gray Northwest weather. (I had not looked at the extended forecast) Wearing gray or black causes problems for me in photos. It washes me out and makes me look tired. Another color had to be incorporated so I suggested purple.

My husband had a great purple sweater, but can you believe that with a closet full of clothes and a dozen scarves I had nothing to wear? When you work part time retail during the holiday season, the last place you want to go is the mall on Christmas Eve when you have the day off! Three stops and three scarves later, we got it put together.

Is it my favorite photo? NO. I’m quick to be critical. However, it has become more and more difficult to get the four of us together now that our oldest son is in college. They all hate the posing and the time it takes. So I’m thankful for what I got, even though it is far from perfect.

Here are two of the best. The top one is my favorite, but I got outvoted and the 2nd one went on the family New Year card.

I’ve been formulating a post in my mind on “What to Wear for the Family Photo” for months. I’ve interviewed a professional photographer. Perhaps this post is the perfect transition to that topic.

So what about you? Are family photos–even a snapshot a “production” at your house?