Overalls

I've been wanting overalls forever, but never really took the time to search for them to try on in person. They became my Great White Buffalo, so to speak. I pained to own them, but thought that with a growing stomach, I was forced to only observe them on others. Then, on Mother's Day, my mom and I were shopping and there they were, in my size, reasonably priced, boyfriend fit, and with button sides to accommodate my middle for at least the rest of the spring & summer.

 Recreate my look:

H&M overalls (maternity style), Liz Claiborne striped tee (similar), vintage scarf, Stella & Dot Tia crossbody, Steve Madden Aria bootie (in black), denim cap, Nars Heat Wave lipstick

Cold Red

At a "feel like" temperature of -20, I should have worn fleece-lined or sweater tights, 

but the polka dot ones were just so much more fun! I've had to sacrifice all heels for comfortable flats to continue the healing of my ankle, so I have to hold up my end of the bargain that fashion is (sometimes) painful.

Recreate my look:

Free People coat (similar), LOFT dress (similar), Corso Como boots (similar), American Apparel tights, Charming Charlie purse (similar), Ally + Zoe earrings (similar), Revlon 'Cherries in the Snow' lipstick

Houndstooth

With all the focus on menswear looks for the ladies, it was refreshing to find such a quintessential flirty & girly shape in a historically "reserved for the boys" print. In addition to leopard, houndstooth might become the other printed neutral of my winter wardrobe. 

Recreate my look:

Joe Fresh sweater, American Apparel skirt, LOFT coat (similar), Stella & Dot purse, Corso Como boots (similar)

My Way/Their Way :: White Ankle Boots

My everyday overcoat trimmed in faux fur, polka dots mixed with diamond print, 

skinny jeans, and a purse to match my lips.

Graphic tank (similar), American Apparel chiffon blouse, Tildon Porto bootie, Stella & Dot crossbody, Nars Heat Wave

They're rocking them with a slim midi skirt and a pop of color with minimal accessories: a black bag and undone hair.

Which do you prefer? 

Personally, I can't wait to recreate "their way" for a work day sometime soon. 

Winter Blues

As a mental health counselor, I want to take this opportunity to remind everyone about self-care, especially during the winter months. Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a subtype of depression caused by the lack of sunlight and colder temperatures. A less severe form of SAD can impact up to 10% of the population and is commonly referred to as the "winter blues." The continued involvement in social activities and exercise as well as healthy eating, drinking, and sleeping habits can help, but if you're struggling, here are some apps that can help or reach out to a doctor or therapist.

Recreate my look:

Madewell sweater, striped boyshirt, paisley trousers, J.Crew peacoat, leopard loafers, Michael Kors watch, vintage rings, Charming Charlie bracelets

Napa Stripes

We're back! 

San Francisco and Napa were everything that we wanted for our honeymoon - relaxing, indulgent, and fun! To say that these past two weeks have been the best of my life is certainly putting it mildly. Dan and I have been completely overwhelmed and humbled by the love and well wishes of our family and friends during this joyous time. While any pictures from the wedding festivities or honeymoon will be posted in no particular order (case in point - these are from our last day in Napa, CA during our wine tour), I hope you enjoy 'em.

Rutherford Grove Winery :: Phenomenal zinfandel and an earthly Merlot that changed my mind about both varietals. Also, boasts a beautiful spot to eat lunch outside, especially when it's 65 and sunny.

Hess Collection :: My all-time fave is their Allomi Cabernet - buttery, smooth, and soft tannins. While it's in mass production, the vineyard is still worth a visit for the art gallery and the smaller batch wines. 

Hopper Creek :: This boutique vineyard, with a great view, produces 2,500 cases so there is a commitment to quality that you can taste. I couldn't pick a favorite, but the Chardonnay surprised me.

Recreate my look:

Madewell sweater, Gap jeans, Stella & Dot purse and bracelets, vintage scarf, Tory Burch sunglasses, Circus by Sam Edelman loafers

I Walk in the Rain

Some people walk in the rain, others just get wet. Which type are you?

Recreate my look:

American Apparel tee, J.Crew shirt (similar), Simply Vera mini (similar), Hunters, similar purse

The 9-5 Patriot

Red, white, and blue are a patriotic combination that can come off as too casual or juvenile for the work day. One way that I ensure this doesn't happen is by adding another neutral into the mix. For this ensemble, I grounded the colors of July 4 with black through a statement necklace, wide belt, and classic pumps.

Recreate the look:

Narcisco Rodriguez for DesigNation pants (similar here and here), Target blouse (similar here and here), Worthington blazer, statement necklace (similar), Nine West pumps, Stella & Dot wrap bracelet and Lakra bangle, similar belt

No Need for Shoulder Pads

I'm a sucker for blazers (obviously), so finding a unique, vintage one is my ultimate score. I just ensure that I remove the shoulder pads since I don't need any help in the big shoulders category.

Recreate my look:

Vintage blazer (similar), Kohl's silk top (similar), XXI lace skirt (similar), similar belt, Stella & Dot necklace, Nine West sandals (similar)

Spring Uniform

It's hard to believe (given the current weather), but couple weeks ago, it was sunny and 60 degrees. Therefore, I broke out what is sure to be my spring uniform - a jean jacket and some combination of cobalt, red/orange, and mint.

Old Navy jean jacket, Gap sweater, Old Navy skirt (similar and cheap), Hue tights, Audrey Brooke pumps, mint bubble necklace, XXI earrings

Jenny Crew

It's no surprise that I'm obsessed with J.Crew. I mean, what girl isn't?! Although the new arrivals feature more pastel colors than primary, mixing stripes & plaid, wearing men's shirts/sweaters, and doning gems every day can be almost 100% attributed to Jenna Lyons and is therefore, quintessentially J.Crew. 

J.Crew plaid shirt (similar), American Apparel sweater, Narcisco Rodriguez for DesigNation Crepe Tuxedo Pants, Audrey Brooke pumps, Target necklace (similar), gray suede clutch

What to Wear this Weekend

Leggings? Baggy sweatshirt? Stocking cap? These are all elements for a lazy weekend spent indoors. 

Sequins? Red lipstick? Sparkly brooch? Black rim glasses? Over the knee boots? These are all elements that will elevate those elements off the couch and out for some daytime fun this Saturday.

I, on the other hand, will be wearing this dress and celebrating my entry into the 30s club!

J.Crew coat and sweatshirt (similar), Target leggings, Nine West boots (similar), Halogen purse, vintage scarf (similar), DIY brooch, American Apparel hat, Givenchy lipstick

The Perfect Red Dress

After receiving this dress as a Christmas present, I have worn it three times. Once with a flannel underneath and knee high boots (for Christmas Day), once with a crewneck sweater over it and leopard flats (for a 1st birthday party), and like this (for the work day). It's comfortable, versatile, and flattering - a triple threat. I can't wait to see how it with more layers as the temperatures drop.

LOFT dress (similar), Lumiere jacket (similar), Jessica Simpson booties, American Apparel fishnets, Stella & Dot earrings, DIY brooch, NY & Co cape (similar), Nars Heat Wave lipstick