I fell for J.Crew's recent sale again (40% off PLUS free shipping?! unheard of) and picked up a yellow turtleneck. I figured this would be a practical addition because I've started to get some side-eye at work from wearing my red turtleneck multiple times a week. The only problem is, the dark shade of yellow isn't as easy to style as red. Side note: Perhaps a different ways to wear red turtleneck post soon -- any interest?

When I was backing up photos over the weekend, I came across one of my pre-teen self wearing what I dubbed "my McDonald's outfit." What else does red/yellow/white remind a kid of besides delicious fast food reserved only for special occasions?

So for today's look, I drew inspiration from my childhood photo by using updated clothing items for a more grown-up look. I kept the same theme of stripes with red and yellow accents, but didn't let patterns nor colors dominate the outfit.

With spring around the corner, I'm cleaning my closet to make room for new items. I've been figuring out what to keep, to throw out (hole-y pj bottoms from high school), and to donate. When I lived at my parents', Purple Heart would periodically leave donation bags in the mailbox for pickup service. It was easy and convenient. I haven't seen this at my new residence, so I'm thinking of dropping things off at a local Goodwill. What's your preferred method to donate clothing?

I'm fairly competent at layering traditional pieces (ie: tee/top/cardigan/blazer) but am a bit clueless at thinking outside the box. I remember seeing Wendy layer a fur vest over a jacket but didn't think my bulky jackets would fit under a vest. A few minutes spent rummaging in my closet and voila! I found the winning combination: a fitted military jacket with leather sleeves that fits right over my fur vest. Turns out, Wendy has already worn this exact combination. That's subconscious inspiration for ya.

I had an (obvious) light bulb moment when putting together today's outfit: v-necks are great for layering. Unlike a traditional sweater, a wrap sweater can be easily adjusted to accommodate various layers worn underneath. I was able to wear a turtleneck and a plaid shirt, while still accessorizing with a necklace, all under a navy wrap sweater. Despite multiple layers, there was no bulkiness and I stayed quite warm even on a windy day.

Enjoy your weekend, everyone!

After passing on J.Crew heartthrob items last year, I patiently scoured eBay to no avail. A few weeks ago, I was ecstatic to see J.Crew re-release this print on their Factory site in a variety of styles (cardigan, skirt, umbrella, scarf). The price for the blouse is a bit steep at $98, so again begins the waiting game. Just as I was about to pull the trigger during a 30% off sale, I saw Khatu share a great dupe for $20, the Forever 21 Essential Georgette Heart Shirt (sold here). Heart print item craving satisfied.

Forever 21's version is coral/navy, whereas J.Crew's is red/black. The longer length of J.Crew's probably looks better on someone my height (~5'5"), but for the savings in price, I can't complain about Forever 21's. I like longer sleeves in general, so was pleasantly surprised to find the sleeve length to be even longer than I preferred.
A few other noteworthy details: hidden placket covers black buttons, uppermost button and cuff buttons are gold instead of black (nice touch), two large flap pockets (don't really care for), machine washable, pretty good quality (no loose threads), fairly wrinkle-resistant.

For reference, I'm wearing a size XS. Approximate measurements:
- length: 24"
- shoulder-to-shoulder: 14"
- sleeve length: 24"

Also see this top on Olyvia and Elvy.

I have a soft spot for navy and orange because they're my alma mater's colors. There hasn't been much to cheer about recently, until I realized we have a shot at making the annual basketball tournament! Yes, a shot (not even a guarantee) is reason enough to show some school pride. A win tonight against #2 Miami would go a long way to beefing up the resume. Let's go 'Hoos!

Also see Wendy in a navy lace top with orange.

I considered accessorizing with either a scarf or a chain necklace. Held up one in each hand and neither looked right, so I passed. Sometimes less is more.

I took a page out of Blair's book and paired a turtleneck with a full skirt. Red hues + feminine silhouette = all set for Valentine's Day. Have a good one!

Leopard heels have become my go-to pair of neutral shoes. I treat them like a pair of brown pumps (of which I do not own) and have been wearing them with colorful outfits, neutrals and everything in-between. Even a furry vest pairing today didn't stop me... though I did feel like I could've blended right in with all the wildlife nearby.

A quick post to start the work week. Hope y'all have a good one!

I'm not sure what possessed me to layer two of my heaviest necklaces today. The need for more sparkles? I shall have to think more practically next time because my neck sure had a workout all day long.

Have a good Thursday!

I was watching CBS' Super Bowl pregame show over the weekend and couldn't help but notice how stylish Clay Matthews looked in his three-piece suit (not that he needs any help looking good). I searched but can't find a photo online. His vest looked to be cut lower, so it framed his jacket evenly when buttoned. I used that as the source of inspiration for today's outfit. I went with a menswear theme and buttoned the top button of my cardigan to mimic the "vest." To tip the scales back towards the feminine side a bit, I chose a high-neck lace top.

After looking through photos, I've come to the conclusion that today's outfit could be a bit more matchy-matchy. In terms of colors, I'd swap out the gray tights for black and match the turtleneck to the gloves. What I didn't accomplish with colors, I made up for in the fabrics worn. I kept the look cozy by picking wool, cotton, and fleece items.

Have a good Monday!

Today's outfit features a silk shift dress winterized with a turtleneck, tights, and suede booties (a photo sans jacket can be found here). The dress has navy stripes, so I debated whether to go with black or navy colored tights. I ended up picking black tights because it blends in with the black suede booties for a leg-lengthening look. I suppose in poor lighting conditions (like when this photo was taken) either color would've worked.

Have a good weekend, everyone!