Ladylike Chic.

Ever since the royal nuptials the world has gone ga-ga for Kate Middleton and

 her effortless, polished style. According to a study by the British paper, The Sun,

 the duchess' fashion choices have brought $1.5 billion to the British economy. 

She manages to look ladylike yet modern which is not always easy. 

Her influence has trickled into America as well, and her ladylike ensembles 

are sending a powerful message; that you can look chic without showing 

too much skin. I can dig it. If you're looking to pull off this demure style 

here are some options that won't break the bank. 

What is more timeless than a trench coat? This trench is $99 and 

the beautiful lilac color is perfect for spring and punching up any outfit.

If you know me you know how much I love polka dots. They are 

equal amounts whimsy and retro. This ladylike frock is a $89 and

you could pair it with a glittery red clutch to add a bit of fun.

Taking a cue from Kate's emerald dress above, this dress' bold color, 

A-line skirt and lace make this Jessica Simpson dress a head turner.

Inauguration Tourist Tips.

The Presidential Inauguration is just around the corner and while experts are not expecting the madness of the 2009 Inauguration there will certainly be an influx of visitors eager to catch a glimpse of Barack and his brood. 

If you're planning to visit DC I've got a few tips for you. Washingtonians are a very particular type of people so listen up!

1. If you are riding the metro please walk left and stand right. This is very important and you will receive dirty looks if you disobey this cardinal rule. You've been warned.

2. Speaking of the metro the Smithsonian, Archives, and Mt. Vernon Square stops will be closed so skip those stops. 

3. The metro does not tolerate food or drink. Just keep that Subway foot long tucked away in your purse until you get off. This is not the NYC subway, folks. It's clean! 

4. If you're lucky enough to be attending an Inauguration ball I beg of you to consider flat (but still cute, duh) shoes. Know ahead of time that there will be long lines and a lot of waiting. If you absolutely must wear your sky high heels consider these, ok? Walking home barefoot is not a cute look. 

5. If you'll be visiting Barack's favorite stops for grub as such Ben's Chili Bowl or Ray's Hell Burger remember that they only accept cash.

6. And most importantly never, ever, ever say anything negative about RGIII. Just don't. 

New Year. New Beginnings.

The new year is here and for many folks that means it is time for resolutions and new beginnings. Whether that means getting fit mentally, physically, progressing in your career, having more fun, getting rid of clutter, traveling more or anything in between here are some tips, tricks and general food for thought.

Karma queen? This soapstone karma counter is used to track good and bad deeds. 

If you're looking for a change of scenery check out this 12 month travel guide (thanks, Kristen). Traveling to Tokyo to enjoy the original cherry blossom festival sounds pretty rad.

How to get ahead at work from former Hearst exec, Cathie Black. Her book is straight forward, useful and sincere. 

100 ways to get more organized. Less clutter, less stress. 

Trying to spend less money but still look chic? New Dress A Day is a blog about a woman who created an entire year's wardrobe from altering outdated thrift store finds. Her craftiness is all sorts of amazing and her 'before' and 'after' outfit transformations are incredible.

101 creative resolutions to get your creative juices flowin'.

Even if you do not believe in resolutions (a la Sandra Bernhard) there's always room for goals at any time during the year. Here's to a fabulous 2013!