The "IT" Factor

We've all seen her. The woman who walks into a space and immediately commands attention. Even before she opens her mouth, she speaks. Her aura, her presence...there's just something about her. We would say she has the "it" factor; that unknown quality, confidence, style that sets her apart.

Fashion is a big part of that mystique. Knowing what to wear, how to put it all together, because let's face it, first impressions DO count. We all know that you shouldn't judge a book by its cover, yet, truth be told it's done all the time. Fact is, in this image conscious society, being well put together is just as important as having the character, talent and skill to back it up. Image does matter.

There's an online establishment called iT Factor Boutique (www.loveitfactorboutique.com) that is a great resource for those who possess (or wish to possess) the "je ne sais quoi" described above. It is headed up by Shanita Drakeford and has become a solid presence amongst the bevy of online boutiques. I can't log onto my Instagram or Facebook without being bombarded by dozens of requests or posts by the myriad of internet retailers. This site, however, has impressed me and become a "go to" when looking for distinct items. You might say it also possesses the "it" factor :)

Pictured above, a simple "iT Girl" tee from the site, paired with basic pencil skirt and hot pink pumps (my recent Goodwill find!!!) to pull out that pop of color. A classic top bun and character glasses complete the look. I wore this ensemble to work, but it could also be great for a date, or an afternoon of lunch and (what else) shopping! ;)

I found this chic navy blue mock neck tunic on iT Factor Boutique, also paired with a basic pencil skirt, and was able to conduct a presentation at work, confident in both my knowledge of the material AND my attire. Put both together and you can be unstoppable! Things went so well that afternoon, I had to stop and take a few celebratory selfies ;)

This past Fall/Winter, I got a great wrap that I could use on those days that weren't quite cold enough for a coat. Spent a day out and about in Philly and felt citified, chic AND warm all at once. Winning! :) Seen here with my fave Old Navy skinny jeans, MK booties and wool hat (www.hatsinthebelfry.com)

Whether you are looking for pieces that are edgy, classic, sexy, flirty or retro, iT Factor Boutique has something for you. www.loveitfactorboutique.com. I encourage you to check them out and see for yourself.

Statement Pieces

Have you ever found an outfit or accessory that, the moment you saw it and put it on, it somehow changed you? Made you feel different? I've had that experience numerous times, but most recently, after I found a red wool fedora. The moment I saw it in the boutique, I fell in love with it. I confess second-guessing myself for a bit, though. I'd never seen one that color before, and wasn't sure I could pull it off. "It's so bright", I thought. "I've never seen anyone else with it." I walked away initially, but couldn't stop thinking about it. After contemplating it for a few days, I went back for it and I'm so glad I did. (Special shoutout to my bestie for encouraging me to follow my instinct! Smooches, E! xoxo)

That's the power of fashion, I think. It can lift your mood, change your outlook or even give you confidence when maybe you don't really feel it. It can also instantly change an otherwise ordinary outfit into one that stands out, sets you apart.  Pictured here is a simple "I'd Rather Be Shopping" t-shirt dress/bodycon found at TJ Maxx, a Forever 21 denim button-up and gladiator heels (www.nastygal.com). By themselves, it's a cute enough ensemble. Add that pop of color, that hat, though, and it becomes something altogether different.

So, I encourage you to find that piece that speaks to you, makes you smile, makes you walk a little taller. Maybe it's a hat, a pair of shoes, a dress. Whatever it is, wear it boldly and with pride. Don't be afraid to shine. It's your right:)