Spring merchandise is everywhere, but it’s still frigid in most parts of the country. If you’re shopping now, buy wisely with pieces you can wear now. This month’s Bucklette Lookbook from Resident Stylist Suzette Levesque shows you how.

This 80’s inspired outfit is an affordable and versatile addition to your February wardrobe. The Juicy Couture 3/4 length, puffy-sleeved jacket has artful draping and a soft fabric. Layered underneath is a must-have: a studded, raw-edged tank top with a criss-cross detail in the back - sexy for summer. The black, straight-leg jeans look basic in the front, but check out the party going on in the back - zippers and studs on the pockets! Top it all off with a rugged, equestrian-style necklace from the Bucklette Bling collection and the Bucklette buckle and belt and you my friend, are set.

“Now this is an outfit!” — Suzette Levesque

Ask and you shall receive! Our readers have been writing with lots of style questions, so we’ve created the Bucklette Style Hotline just for our inquisitive Bucklette BFFs.

SUSAN FROM ANNAPOLIS, MARYLAND WRITES IN:

“This time of year I get so excited to start shopping for Spring. What should I add to my wardrobe now that I’ll be able to wear for months to come?”

Dear Bucklette BFF Susan,

This is the time of year to layer, layer layer! I have been stocking up on tank tops with lots of detail - lace, interesting edging and adorned with studs - wearing them under blazers and sweaters. It’s a fun, practical, easy way to add color and texture, and to curb your cravings for new spring things! Don’t miss our next Lookbook going live on Friday, January 22. We’ll be showing the Bucklette with one of our newest finds!

xo, mawh, tootles
Suzette

If you have a question for Resident Style Guru Suzette Levesque, email us at info@bucklette.com or Suzette at suzettelevesque@gmail.com.

In a world where emails, text messages and social media function as our primary methods of communication, it’s refreshing to receive a handwritten card or note in your mailbox (not inbox). We’ve pulled together some of our favorite finds in the stationery department. Hopefully, they’ll inspire you to send that thank you note!

Thank You Cards from Philadelphia’s own Louella Press.

Sets of six blank notecards with patterned envelopes from Smock Paper. Sustainably letterpressed on bamboo paper and they donate 1% of sales to environmental causes.

If you want to make your own cards, check out our friend Christina Stehr’s web site. She’s an independent demonstrator with Stampin’ Up! and available for stamping workshops for people in the Philadelphia area. You can also order card making kits that contain everything you need to quickly and easily make your own unique cards (stamps, ink, envelopes, adhesive, folded cards, and embellishments). But I warn you: this can become addictive!

Caroline Brant of The Paper Concierge gives us her tips and a special offer: buy 25 pieces and double your order for FREE on all Sweet Pea Designs stationery.

“Many people find the act of writing thank-you notes to be so intimidating. Don’t over-think it! Even a quick, simple note can be a meaningful expression of appreciation. The trick is to write them right away, make at least one reference to the gift you received, and include a short message about its usefulness or meaning to you.”

Remember to send a handwritten thank you note to the hosts/hostesses of all those holiday parties you attended. Be sure to include a moment or detail that you especially enjoyed. Specifics are always appreciated — your host will love it! Here’s an example of a short but sweet thank you note:

Dear Susan & Tom,

Lots of Love,
Amy and James