Babydoll

This baby doll dress brings to mind shopping at 579 or Merry Go Round at my local mall, which is a rather fond memory. To update this silhouette for 2014, try adding some layers like I did, or rock it Courtney Love style with lace up boots and an oversized jean jacket. Either way, it'll be one of the most comfortable and versatile pieces you can bring through to spring.

Recreate my look:

BB Dakota vest (similar), Uniqlo sweater (similar) and leather leggings, Merona boots (similar), Stella & Dot and Hazel necklace, Coach sunglasses, Michael Kors watch, Sabina Messenger Bag

How I Wear…Jacquard

When wearing one statement piece. such as jacquard trousers, it's necessary to incorporate another texture or pattern to make them daytime appropriate. I know it sounds counterintuitive, but wearing them with a simple black turtleneck or white collar shirt would make them party ready. So, combining plaid and faux fur has somehow toned down the fancy - am I right or am I right?
P.S. Pardon the graininess, but it seems as though my fuzzy vest impacted the lens. However, this does offer an opportunity to share with you my favorite movie quote from Despicable Me. I've said it so many times that I like to think I kind of sound like her, although I'm sure watching it one hundred times has been helpful as well.

Recreate my look:

Jacquard pants, faux fur vest, J.Crew shirt, vintage cameo brooch, navy flats, cobalt wallet, Nars Red Lizard

Instead of an Overcoat - What to Wear to Keep Warm (Part II)

A vest is my newest favorite layering piece. They add warmth without bulk in the arms and as a woman with broad shoulders, I appreciate that so I don't feel like Tommy Boy. Therefore, I've decided to showcase my adoration of vests during these in between months. 

First, was the puffer vest (my fiancé's favorite), and now it's on to my favorite…

The Fur Vest

It is the heaviest hitter for your winter wardrobe (outside of Thinsulate lined wool or goose down coats) and it should be treated with the respect that entails. Whether you wear it over or under your fall layers, this fuzzy addition will extend the life of your jean, utility, trench, or lil leather jackets well below 50 degrees.

Find yours at JCPenney, Madewell, or Anthropologie

Photo credits clockwise from top left: 1,2,3,4,5,6

Travelin'

I've become quite the traveler this past year. My work now includes it on at least a monthly basis. It's necessary to be comfortable when flying; however, I usually have to go into work before or after my flight, therefore, it's still necessary to be business casual. I always dress in light layers like a chambray shirt, utility jacket, and fur vest. No matter the temperature in the cabin, you'll be ready for it. I also wear a loose fitting or stretchy dress/skirt rather than pants that will wrinkle or a tight waistband that will dig in while you're sitting. And to ensure that I'm not walking around barefoot through security, tights in the winter or ankle socks in the summer with booties are my pick. Lastly, this tote has completely changed my traveling experience since it expands to the size of a carry on, thereby still making it acceptable with my Samsonite to not require any checked baggage!

MNG for Mango dress, Bisou Bisou faux fur vest, H&M jacket, Target chambray shirt, Hue sweater tights, Steve Madden booties, Charming Charlie purse (similar here and here), Limited chandelier earrings (similar)

Longer Lengths

After holding up my new green skirt (scored with an American Apparel Groupon) to the "tops" section in my closet, I decided to wear it with this watercolor tee. Normally I would wear a cropped jacket with a maxi skirt to ensure that my waist is defined rather than pair long with long; however, the colors in this tee (green, mustard, brown, burgundy, and peach) were begging to be worn with my peach boyfriend blazer! So, why not add a wide brim hat and fur vest to really work the boho chic look? Why not indeed.

Club Monaco fur vest (similar), H&M peach blazer (similar), Simply Vera tee, American Apparel skirt, Gap hat (similar), Fownes Brothers gloves, Franco Sarto booties (similar), Hue sweater tights, Tory Burch sunnies