I despise posting pictures of myself which is why I do it so infrequently. However, I’m trying to be more brave about it as so many of you at PrettyCity events and parties have mentioned that you love to see personal pics.

That said, I snapped a few shots of this pretty and demure combination of trends yesterday. After we at PrettyCity.com ran a story here about collars being the new it thing, I wanted to try it but was afraid the look would feel too stuffy for me. So, I hedged my bets by picking up a super inexpensive collar shirt at TJ Maxx. (I think I paid about $20 for the blouse.) I loved the final look because, while it isn’t racy at all, there is something subtly sexy about this style. I paired mine with a black skirt, black tights and sky-high black heels, of course.

The makeup: Essie polish in “Licorice,” which is just as ebony as it sounds. Mirenesse Lip Bomb Glossy Lacquer #13, a very flattering nude gloss, EnvyDerm Growth Liquid Eyeliner in black and SmashBox BB Cream, natch!

The jewelry: Earrings from my husband’s jewelry collection, Brian Brundage Designs, the “Black Collection.”