2 Ways - Stripes + Lilac

Saturday, October 31, 2015

Today I'm sharing an easy way to elevate a casual outfit to a more polished version by adding and swapping a few key pieces. Outfit #1 [left] is head-to-toe casual, from the slightly oversized striped tee down to the canvas sneakers. This is a favorite uniform of mine on weekends, especially for running errands. For business casual Fridays [right], I simply added a blazer (hides the relaxed tee somewhat), switched sneakers for loafers, and voila! Instant transformation. Wouldn't you take me more seriously now? ;)

striped top, lilac and brown accessories
striped top, lilac sweater, cognac brown tote, canvas sneakers, oversized watch
sunglasses: Ann Taylor Metropolis (sold here)
lips: MAKE UP FOR EVER Rouge Artist Natural in N9 (sold here)
top: Old Navy relaxed boat-neck tee (sold here - $9 w/code COOLSTYLE)
sweater: J.Crew Factory drapey cotton sweater (sold here - $29.99; similar - extra 25% off w/code SHOPSALE)
jeans: Express mid rise jean legging (sold here - buy 1 get 1 $29.90)
shoes: Sperry Seacoast canvas sneakers (sold at Lord & Taylor - 25% off w/code BOOTS / Macy's / Bloomingdale's)

striped top, white blazer, lilac scarf, cognac brown tote, brown loafers, oversized watch
sunglasses: Ann Taylor Metropolis (sold here)
lips: MAKE UP FOR EVER Rouge Artist Natural in N9 (sold here)
scarf: Banana Republic solid jersey wrap (similar)
blazer: J.Crew double-breasted blazer (may still be avail in stores; similar - extra 30% off w/code SHOPSALE)
top: Old Navy relaxed boat-neck tee (sold here - $9 w/code COOLSTYLE)
watch: The Horse Original watch in rose gold/blush (sold here; similar)
jeans: Express mid rise jean legging (sold here - buy 1 get 1 $29.90)
bag: J.Crew Downing tote (similar; similar - extra 25% off w/code COOLSTYLE)
shoes: Tory Burch Ludlow driver (similar - on sale; similar)

Fall Transitions

Thursday, October 29, 2015

Today's outfit garnered comparisons to "that kid from A Christmas Story," according to my coworker. He also added, "I don't think we'll see your neck until next April, C." Clueless like I always am when it comes to movie references, I went home to google, then immediately laughed out loud. My coworker could only have been referencing the kid on the left.

scarf, lilac sweater, navy blazer, oversized watch, lace pencil skirt
scarf, lilac sweater, navy blazer, oversized watch, lace pencil skirt, glitter pumps
sunglasses: Ann Taylor Metropolis (sold here)
lips: MAKE UP FOR EVER Rouge Artist Natural in N9 (sold here)
scarf: Banana Republic Delia linen-blend (similar; similar)
blazer: J.Crew Collection Rylan blazer in Italian wool-cotton (similar; similar)
sweater: J.Crew Factory drapey cotton sweater (sold here - $17.99 w/code EXTRA40; similar - 25% off w/code FALLSALE)
watch: The Horse Original watch in rose gold/blush (sold here; similar)
skirt: LOFT floral lace pencil skirt (similar; similar - on sale)
bag: Nina Ricci small Marche in gris (sold at Barneys / mytheresa; rent; similar)
shoes: J.Crew Dulci mermaid glitter kitten heels (sold here - extra 40% off w/code FALLSALE; great dupe; similar)

Pink on Pink

Tuesday, October 27, 2015

pink scarf, white blazer, pink wool dress, glitter pumps
pink scarf, white blazer, pink wool dress
sunglasses: Ann Taylor Metropolis (sold here)
lips: MAKE UP FOR EVER Rouge Artist Natural in N9 (sold here)
scarf: Ann Taylor eyelet (similar - on sale; similar)
blazer: J.Crew double-breasted blazer (may still be avail in stores; similar - extra 40% off w/code FALLSALE)
ring: Elizabeth and James Windrose (sold here; similar - on sale)
dress: Ann Taylor boiled wool pocket dress (sold here)
bag: Nina Ricci small Marche in gris (sold at Barneys / mytheresa; rent; similar)
shoes: J.Crew Dulci mermaid glitter kitten heels (sold here - extra 25% off w/code FALLSALE; great dupe; similar)

Orange / Blue

Monday, October 26, 2015

plaid jacket, orange top, navy pencil skirt, blue suede pumps
sunglasses: Ann Taylor Metropolis (sold here)
lips: MAKE UP FOR EVER Rouge Artist Natural in N9 (sold here)
necklace: Forever 21 chain (similar)
jacket: Coach Tattersall short trench (similar - on sale; similar)
sweater: theory Ashtry F open cardigan (similar - on sale; similar - 50% off w/code FALL50)
top: J.Crew lace panel tank (sold here - extra 40% off w/code SALETREAT)
skirt: Ann Taylor all-season stretch pencil skirt (sold here)
bag: Nina Ricci small Marche in gris (sold at Barneys / mytheresa; rent; similar)
shoes: Sole Society Desirae almond toe pump (similar; similar - 25% off w/code SALETREAT; similar - on sale)

Pink / Purple

Saturday, October 24, 2015

My current hair is at that awkward stage where I love the shorter length but hate how there's not enough to weigh down the volume at the crown. So I typically use a clip to partially pull my hair back or my go-to on lazy weekends -- a hat to solve my hair issues.

pink cap, navy floral scarf, lilac purple sweater, gray taupe clutch, light wash jeans, pink boat shoes
pink cap, navy floral scarf, lilac purple sweater, gray taupe clutch, light wash jeans, oversized watch
hat: Gap Outlet (similar - 40% off w/code MAJOR)
sunglasses: Ann Taylor Metropolis (sold here)
lips: NYX round case lipstick in NYX (sold here)
scarf: Forever 21 waverly (similar; similar)
sweater: J.Crew Factory drapey cotton sweater (sold here - $29.99; similar - 25% off w/code SALETREAT)
watch: The Horse Original watch in rose gold/blush (sold here; similar)
jeans: LOFT super skinny jeans in deconstructed garden blue (this season's sold here - extra 60% off)
clutch: Gucci swing leather continental wallet (sold at Gucci / NM)
shoes: Sperry x J.Crew authentic original bow boat (similar - on sale)

Photos thanks to DH!

Topped with a Scarf

Thursday, October 22, 2015

On the coldest day thus far this fall, I reached for the coziest accessory in my closet. The voluminous scarf sure did not go unnoticed by my coworkers. One wanted to know what I plan to wear when winter finally arrives. Another made a reference to Frozen which went over my head (I might be the only person who hasn't seen the movie). Also got a couple non-traditional compliments that only guys would think to say. I hadn't expected a scarf to be the equivalent of a coffee table book, but hey, it did make my day more interesting.

oversized plaid scarf, white blazer, oversized watch
oversized plaid scarf, white blazer, oversized watch, blue suede pumps
sunglasses: Ann Taylor Metropolis (sold here)
lips: MAKE UP FOR EVER Rouge Artist Natural in N9 (sold here)
scarf: Zara two-tone checked scarf (similar; similar)
blazer: J.Crew double-breasted blazer (sold here - extra 40% off w/code SALETREAT; similar - extra 40% off w/code SALETREAT)
top: Vince jersey slub tee (similar - 30% off w/code SUPER; similar)
watch: The Horse Original watch in rose gold/blush (sold here; similar)
pants: Ann Taylor ponte skinny ankle (similar - 50% off w/code FALL50)
bag: Nina Ricci small Marche in gris (sold at Barneys / mytheresa; rent; similar)
shoes: Sole Society Desirae almond toe pump (similar; similar - 25% off w/code SALETREAT; similar - on sale)

Swing Swing

Wednesday, October 21, 2015

green swing trench jacket, chambray shirt, lace pencil skirt, glitter pumps
green swing trench jacket, chambray shirt, lace pencil skirt, glitter pumps
sunglasses: Ann Taylor Metropolis (sold here)
lips: MAKE UP FOR EVER Rouge Artist Natural in N9 (sold here)
necklace: gift from aunt (similar)
jacket: Everlane swing trench (sold here; similar; similar)
top: Gap chambray shirt (similar - on sale; similar - $39.50)
ring: Elizabeth and James Windrose (sold here; similar - on sale)
skirt: LOFT floral lace pencil skirt (similar; similar - on sale)
bag: Nina Ricci small Marche in gris (sold at Barneys / mytheresa; rent; similar)
shoes: J.Crew Dulci mermaid glitter kitten heels (sold here - 25% off w/code SALETREAT; great dupe; similar)

Rose Pink

Monday, October 19, 2015

pearl necklace, tweed jacket, rose pink wool dress, red purple tote, leopard flats
pearl necklace, tweed jacket, rose pink wool dress, red purple tote
pearl necklace, tweed jacket, rose pink wool dress, red purple tote, leopard flats
sunglasses: Ann Taylor Metropolis (sold here)
lips: MAKE UP FOR EVER Rouge Artist Natural in N9 (sold here)
necklace: gift from aunt (similar)
jacket: UniQUEEN Malang tweed (similar; similar)
rings: Ann Taylor pave ring set (sold here - buy 1 get 1 50% off)
bracelet: Tory Burch sculpted metal cuff (similar; similar)
dress: Ann Taylor boiled wool pocket dress (sold here)
bag: Tory Burch Robinson pebbled square tote (this season's sold at Bloomingdale's / Nordstrom / Shopbop / TB)
shoes: Nine West Shindig (similar; similar)

Relaxed

Saturday, October 17, 2015

dark red jacket, white button up shirt, skinny jeans, canvas sneakers
sunglasses: Ann Taylor Metropolis (sold here)
lips: MAKE UP FOR EVER Rouge Artist Natural in N9 (sold here)
necklace: Forever 21 chain (similar; similar)
jacket: Burberry lightweight belted parka (this season's sold here; similar)
shirt: J.Crew Factory infinity shirt (sold here - $29.50; similar - $39.50)
jeans: Express mid rise jean legging (sold here - buy 1 get 1 $29.90)
bag: Longchamp large Le Pliage (sold at Bloomingdale's / Nordstrom / NM)
shoes: Sperry Seacoast canvas sneakers (sold at Lord & Taylor - 25% off w/code FRIENDS / Macy's - 25%+ off w/code GREAT / Bloomingdale's)

Autumn Days

Thursday, October 15, 2015

Spring weddings may be the more universally accepted version of beautiful with blooming flowers everywhere, but I think fall weddings are equally gorgeous, especially when timed just as the leaves are changing colors. DH and I went to a wedding at the Meadowlark Botanical Gardens over the weekend. Um, how is it that I've never visited this place until now?! I'm ashamed to call myself a local :(

My pictures really do not do the "gardens" justice. I use the term loosely because Meadowlark is more like a mini-National Park with trails, wildlife, and just beautiful natural scenery all-around. I'm guessing we were a few weeks early because trees were still mostly green. I plan to go back soon to catch the leaves at peak foliage and will be wearing sneakers so I can freely roam about!

wildflower floral dress, gold jewelry, tweed clutch, glitter pumps
Ann Taylor tweed clutch
wildflower floral dress, gold jewelry, tweed clutch
[photo below]: My idea of being one with nature. I literally could've sat out here all day. Darn the wedding reception for pulling me away from this view ;)
Meadowlark Botanical Gardens
sunglasses: Ann Taylor Metropolis (sold here)
lips: MAKE UP FOR EVER Rouge Artist Natural in N9 (sold here)
dress: RED Valentino wildflower (similar - 25% off; similar - 40% off)
bracelet: Ann Taylor modern classic skinny bangle (similar - on sale; similar)
ring: Ann Taylor pave ring set (sold here - buy 1 get 1 50% off)
clutch: Ann Taylor tweed (similar - on sale; similar)
shoes: J.Crew Dulci mermaid glitter kitten heels (sold here; great dupe; similar)

Photos thanks to DH!

Skulls + Suede

Wednesday, October 14, 2015

blue patterned scarf, black faux leather top, black pencil skirt, blue suede shoes
blue patterned scarf, black faux leather top, black pencil skirt, blue suede shoes
sunglasses: Ann Taylor Metropolis (sold here)
lips: MAKE UP FOR EVER Rouge Artist Natural in N9 (sold here)
scarf: H&M (similar; similar)
top: Ann Taylor faux leather yoke top (similar; similar)
bracelet: Giles & Brother skinny crystal railroad spike bracelet (sold at Shopbop - 25% off w/code INTHEFAM25 / Amazon / Lord & Taylor - 25% off w/code FRIENDS)
skirt: Ann Taylor seamed pencil (sold here; similar)
bag: Nina Ricci small Marche in gris (sold at Barneys / mytheresa; rent; similar)
shoes: Sole Society Desirae almond toe pump (similar; similar - on sale)

3 Ways - Blue Striped Shirt + Yellow Bow Pumps

Monday, October 12, 2015

Today we have a combination of a little preppy (blue striped shirt) and a little girly (bow pumps) worn 3 ways. Paired with pieces that are easily found in most closets (sweater, jeans, blazer, pencil skirt), these looks are very wearable yet different. Then to finish off each outfit, accessorize for a touch of personal style (in my case, a bright blue scarf, a striped green belt, and a statement necklace).

3 ways to wear: blue stripe shirt + mustard yellow bow pumps
Outfit details:   left   |   center   |   right (below)
jeweled necklace, blue stripe button up shirt, gray pencil skirt, mustard yellow bow pumps
jeweled necklace, blue stripe button up shirt, gray pencil skirt
sunglasses: Ann Taylor Metropolis (sold here)
lips: MAKE UP FOR EVER Rouge Artist Natural in N9 (sold here)
necklace: J.Crew Factory fanned jewel (may still be in stores; similar)
shirt: J.Crew Factory printed classic button-down (sold here - 50% off + free shipping w/code YAYFALL; similar - 40% off w/code SHOPFALL)
ring: Elizabeth and James Windrose (sold here; similar - on sale)
bracelet: Ann Taylor modern classic skinny bangle (similar - on sale; similar)
bag: Nina Ricci small Marche in gris (sold at Barneys / mytheresa; rent; similar)
shoes: Zara silk satin high heel court shoe (similar; similar)

Take II: Brocade Skirt + Raffia Heels

Saturday, October 10, 2015

I previously wore this brocade skirt and raffia heels combination over the summer. That outfit was dressier and more colorful... perfectly summer-y, for lack of a better word. Today's version is fall-like with muted colors and layers. Perhaps due to an abnormally harsh winter last year, I'm not quite ready to let go of summer yet. I hope we have a few more warm days remaining!

denim jacket, gray tee, patterned brocade wrap skirt, raffia heels, cognac brown tote, oversized watch
denim jacket, gray tee, patterned brocade wrap skirt, raffia heels, cognac brown tote, oversized watch
sunglasses: Ann Taylor Metropolis (sold here)
lips: MAKE UP FOR EVER Rouge Artist Natural in N9 (sold here)
jacket: Abercrombie & Fitch denim (similar - extra 40% off w/code BRSAVE; similar - 30% off w/code WEEKEND)
top: Vince Little Boy tee (sold at Nordstrom / Bloomingdale's / Shopbop)
watch: The Horse Original watch in rose gold/blush (sold here; similar)
skirt: J.Crew Collection mixed Italian jacquard faux-wrap (sold here - extra 30% off w/code WEEKEND)
bag: J.Crew Downing tote (similar; similar - on sale)
nail polish on toes: Sally Hansen in mellow yellow (sold here, here, here)
shoes: Raphaella Booz raffia garden heels (sold here - on sale; similar)

Tweed Transitions

Thursday, October 08, 2015

tweed jacket, white cowl top, black pencil skirt, burgundy pumps
tweed jacket, white cowl top, black pencil skirt, burgundy pumps
sunglasses: Ann Taylor Metropolis (sold here)
lips: MAKE UP FOR EVER Rouge Artist Natural in N9 (sold here)
jacket: UniQUEEN Malang tweed (similar; similar)
top: Ann Taylor sleeveless drape neck top (sold here - $18 w/code SHOPFALL)
bracelet: Tory Burch sculpted metal cuff (similar; similar)
skirt: Ann Taylor seamed pencil (sold here - 40% off w/code SHOPFALL; similar)
bag: Tory Burch Robinson pebbled square tote (this season's sold at Bloomingdale's / Nordstrom / Shopbop / TB)
shoes: Kate Spade Jess pumps (similar; similar)

Lilac / Gray

Tuesday, October 06, 2015

After a week of not taking outfit photos due to gloomy weather, I was all thumbs when setting up the camera to tinker with its settings. Not being on auto-pilot actually forced me to experiment a little more... by changing the camera angles, lol. For once, here's a set of photos where I'm not just staring straight on while standing in the same spot.

gray silk wrapped necklace, lilac sweater, gray pencil skirt, glitter pumps
gray silk wrapped necklace, lilac sweater, gray pencil skirt, glitter pumps
gray silk wrapped necklace, lilac sweater, gray pencil skirt
sunglasses: Ann Taylor Metropolis (sold here)
necklace: J.Crew pearl and silk wrapped (similar)
sweater: J.Crew Factory drapey cotton sweater (sold here - $29.99; similar - extra 30% off w/code SHOPSALE)
rings: Ann Taylor pave ring set (sold here - buy 1 get 1 50% off)
skirt: Ann Taylor all-season stretch pencil skirt (sold here)
bag: Nina Ricci small Marche in gris (sold at Barneys / mytheresa; rent; similar)
shoes: J.Crew Dulci mermaid glitter kitten heels (may still be in stores; similar)

Til Next Season

Sunday, October 04, 2015

red cap, black faux leather yoke top, distressed shorts, flip flops
hat: MLB Washington Nationals cap (sold here - on sale)
lips: MAKE UP FOR EVER Rouge Artist Natural in N9 (sold here)
topAnn Taylor faux leather yoke top (similar - 50% off; similar - 50% off)
bracelet: Giles & Brother skinny crystal railroad spike bracelet (sold at Shopbop / Amazon / Lord & Taylor)
shorts: Express 2 1/2 inch low rise destroyed cuffed denim (similar; similar - both on sale)
bag: Longchamp large Le Pliage (sold at Bloomingdale's / Nordstrom / NM)
nail polish on toes: NYC New York Color in Sidewalkers (sold here)
shoes: Old Navy faux-leather capri sandals (similar; similar)

Photo thanks to DH!

Easy

Friday, October 02, 2015

white button up shirt, stacked rings, x bracelet, jeans, croc pumps
white button up shirt, stacked rings, x bracelet, jeans
sunglasses: Ann Taylor Metropolis (sold here)
lips: NYX round case lipstick in NYX (sold here)
shirt: J.Crew Factory infinity shirt (sold here - $29.50; similar - 50% off)
rings: Ann Taylor pave ring set (sold here - buy 1 get 1 50% off)
bracelet: Ann Taylor modern classic X cuff (similar; similar)
jeans: Express mid rise jean legging (sold here - buy 1 get 1 $29.90)
bag: Chanel reissue in 226 (pre-owned; similar)
shoes: YSL Charlotte pumps in Millennium print (pre-owned; similar - great dupe)

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