Burgundy

I associate the color Burgundy with Fall. It’s deep, warm, and romantic. I wear it all year long, but especially this time of year. Shop some of my favorite shades of Burgundy for Fall:

burgundy sweater

Free People, Wine

burgundy boots

Madewell, Deepest Burgundy

red scarf

Topshop, Check Mix

burgundy coat

Urban, Maroon

plum coat

ASOS, Oxblood

burgundy bootie

Lucky Brand, Beet Suede

burgundy flannel

Nordstrom, Burgundy Stem Jen Plaid

burgundy sweater

Madewell, Dark Cabernet

burgundy pants

Topshop, Berry Red

“The spring, summer, is quite a hectic time for people in their lives, but then it comes to autumn, and to winter, and you can’t but help think back to the year that was, and then hopefully looking forward to the year that is approaching.” -Enya

The Bomber

Bomber Jackets

I have been jealous of Joel’s bomber for years. It appears to be the perfect Fall jacket. Not only does it actually keep you warm, but its style transcends through time.

Here are a few bombers on my shopping list:

Bomber Jackets

Urban

Bomber Jackets

Nordstrom

Bomber Jackets

Topshop

Bomber Jackets

H&M

Bomber Jackets

ASOS

“I like my money right where I can see it: hanging in my closet.” — Carrie Bradshaw

Wine Tasting

Jean Jacket, Black Jeans, Booties, Crop Top

This weekend Joel and I went wine tasting at the Bonny Doon Vineyard Tasting Room in Davenport.

Bonny Doon Vineyard

We had a great time. With each sip, we tried to guess the notes for each wine–a perfect date night activity.

Bonny Doon Vineyard

We even ended up walking away with two bottles: the 2014 Old Telegram (Joel’s pick) and the 2013 Vinferno (my pick, obviously a dessert wine).

BDG Denim Jacket, Urban Crop Top, Gap high waisted black jeans, Lucky Brand Booties

I always envisioned my first wine tasting expedition up in the Napa heat, with a floral print dress blowing in the wind. Since this was a spur of the moment idea, we decided to stay local. Therefore, I modified my idyllic outfit vision for the Santa Cruz wine tasting experience.

BDG Denim Jacket, Urban Crop Top, Gap high waisted black jeans, Lucky Brand Booties

This weekend really cooled off, so I opted for a pair of booties, jeans, and a denim jacket.

BDG Denim Jacket, Urban Crop Top, Gap high waisted black jeans, Lucky Brand Booties

I fit right in with the laid back and casual look of Santa Cruz.

BDG Denim Jacket, Urban Crop Top, Gap high waisted black jeans, Lucky Brand Booties

If you’re ever in town, I highly recommend trying this place. They were informative, fun, and friendly. What more could you ask for?

BDG Denim Jacket, Urban Crop Top, Gap high waisted black jeans, Lucky Brand Booties

“Wine makes daily living easier, less hurried, with fewer tensions and more tolerance.” -Benjamin Franklin

On Me: BDG Denim Jacket, Urban Crop Top, Gap Jeans, Lucky Brand Booties

Suede

Suede Jacket, High waisted jeans, Wedge,  Crop Top

Suede is the perfect material for a Summer jacket.

Suede Jacket, High waisted jeans, Wedge,  Crop Top

It’s lighter than a leather, but still edgy.

Suede Jacket, High waisted jeans, Wedge,  Crop Top

During the colder months, I love to add my leather jacket to any outfit. It’s a statement piece that takes jeans and a t-shirt to the next level.

Suede Jacket, High waisted jeans, Wedge,  Crop Top

The Summer months are way too hot for leather, unfortunately. Luckily for me, I discovered this replacement suede jacket from Bar III.

Suede Jacket, High waisted jeans, Wedge,  Crop Top

I love the simplicity in it. Without too much going on, the cut and shape of the jacket complements any figure.

Suede Jacket, High waisted jeans, Wedge,  Crop Top

Not only is this jacket flattering, but it’s also versatile. You can pair it with jeans or a dress–day or night. Definitely an essential for your closet!

Suede Jacket, High waisted jeans, Wedge,  Crop Top

On Me: Bar III Suede Jacket

Urban Jeans

Lucky Brand Sandals

Morning Rituals

Our favorite place to get coffee in the Sunset is at Andytown. At one point, I think we were going there religiously once a week. From the atmosphere to the coffee, this place is is great if you are ever visiting San Francisco.

Andytown Coffee

2 Snowy Plovers (Pellegrino+espresso+whipped cream=perfection) & 1 Cappuccino

Andytown

Strawberry Corn Muffin & Vegetable Pastry

Andytown

Even on a foggy day, the Snowy Plover is a must. Once you try it, you’ll crave it.

For coffee runs, I usually wear a variation of this outfit:

Hollister Jacket

Hollister Jacket

H&M Sweatshirt

H&M Sweatshirt

ModCloth Flats

ModCloth Flats

Gap Jeans

Gap Jeans

“San Francisco is a city where people are never more abroad than when they are at home.” -Benjamin F. Taylor

Mix & Match

Brandy Hat, Forever 21 Tops, Levis Jeans, Lucky Brand Sandals

I love to mix & match my clothing.

Brandy Hat, Forever 21 Tops, Levis Jeans, Lucky Brand Sandals

That’s why fashion is so much fun–there are NO rules!

Brandy Hat, Forever 21 Tops, Levis Jeans, Lucky Brand Sandals

I bought the burgundy long sleeve pictured above thinking of it only as a dress.

Brandy Hat, Forever 21 Tops, Levis Jeans, Lucky Brand Sandals

I imagined myself wearing it buttoned down with a belt to define my waist and maybe with tights and boots in the winter, but I had never once thought about unbuttoning it.

Brandy Hat, Forever 21 Tops, Levis Jeans, Lucky Brand Sandals

As a dress, this piece of clothing sat in my closet for months. I would try it on from time to time, but never ended up wearing it.

Brandy Hat, Forever 21 Tops, Levis Jeans, Lucky Brand Sandals

And then it hit me. I could try wearing this a different way–mix it up. So I did.

Brandy Hat, Forever 21 Tops, Levis Jeans, Lucky Brand Sandals

Though I still think it would look cute as a dress, it suits me much better as a cardigan.

Brandy Hat, Forever 21 Tops, Levis Jeans, Lucky Brand Sandals

On Me: Brandy Hat, Forever 21 Tops, Levis Jeans, Lucky Brand Sandals

How To Wear Long Shirts

Abercrombie Outerwear, Abercrombie Long Shirt, Express Leggings, Nordstrom Sunnies, Dollhouse Booties

(Abercrombie Top and Jacket, Express Leggings, Charlotte Russe Booties, Nordstrom Sunnies)

I LOVE long shirts. This fashion statement can make or break an outfit–especially if you are petite. Though there are generally NO rules when it comes to fashion, I have a few suggestions for how to wear long shirts that might help short girls pull it off.

  1. Choose a neutral color. Even though this shirt is the main attraction, too much attention to that one area can be a distraction from the look as a whole. This Asos Top is perfect. Asos Top
  2. Find a cropped jacket that can accentuate how long your legs are. Without it, your silhouette can disappear. A jacket similar to this Free People one will do the trick. free people jacket
  3. Pair your top with skinny jeans or leggings. Once again, this will help define your shape. Madewell is currently having a sale on these! madewell leggings
  4. Finally, I recommend a pair of heels! As with any outfit, heels not only add height to your look, but they also give you the appearance of longer legs. I just bought these booties from Charlotte Russe and am in LOVE. Charlotte Russe booties

Whale City Bakery

Whale City Bakery, Abercrombie Leather Jacket, Free People Tank, Nordstrom Sunnies

Back when I was in high school, all I ever wanted was to leave this small town and move to the big city just 70 miles up the coast. After doing just that, all I ever want now is to come back home.

Whale City Bakery, Abercrombie Leather Jacket, Free People Tank, Nordstrom Sunnies

I never realized just how lucky I was to grow up in such a unique niche called Santa Cruz. I was so eager to explore NEW streets, to meet NEW people, and to see NEW things, that I forgot that nothing can truly compare to this place. Maybe everyone feels this way about their home town, though.

Whale City Bakery, Abercrombie Leather Jacket, Free People Tank, Nordstrom Sunnies

Don’t get me wrong–I love San Francisco. But there is something so special about Santa Cruz. For instance, you could never find a place like Whale City Bakery up in the city.

Whale City Bakery, Abercrombie Leather Jacket, Free People Tank, Nordstrom Sunnies

Whale City Bakery is just 10 miles north of town, sitting on Highway 1 in Davenport. Getting there makes for a scenic adventure. Then, once you arrive, you get to sip your coffee while watching the surfers try to catch a wave.

Whale City Bakery

You can choose to grab a killer muffin and coffee to go from the bakery, or sit and take your time while digesting the best blueberry pancakes you’ve ever had.

Whale City Bakery

They also offer healthy items (for those who like that kind of thing).

Whale City Bakery

If you are ever in the area, make sure to stop by. You won’t regret it.

“I live in Santa Cruz. I moved here in 1974 and couldn’t leave.” -Ellen Bass

Whale City Bakery, Abercrombie Leather Jacket, Free People Tank, Nordstrom Sunnies

On Me: Abercrombie Leather Jacket, Free People Tank, Nordstrom Sunnies

New Year, Same Hat

Brandy Melville Hat, Urban Outfitters Striped Sweater, STS Blue Jeans, Lucky Brand Bootles, Nordstrom Sunnies

This is my go-to outfit right now: jeans, booties, sweater (or flannel), bomber, sunnies, and hat.

 Brandy Melville Hat, Urban Outfitters Striped Sweater, STS Blue Jeans, Lucky Brand Bootles, Nordstrom Sunnies

Each season I find myself gravitating towards a certain silhouette. Though I love experimenting, it is nice to fall back on an outfit that I know will make me feel confident and comfortable all day.

Brandy Melville Hat, Urban Outfitters Striped Sweater, STS Blue Jeans, Lucky Brand Bootles, Nordstrom Sunnies

I have been like this forever. I always have a better day when I like my look. For instance, I always make sure to wear my “go-to outfit” on test days. The psychology of fashion is so fascinating, isn’t it?

Brandy Melville Hat, Urban Outfitters Striped Sweater, STS Blue Jeans, Lucky Brand Bootles, Nordstrom Sunnies

I am also this way with my hair. Every now and then I will let my natural hair make an appearance, but when I do that I can’t stop fussing with it. When I blow out my hair I don’t have that problem. I feel more like myself. I used to feel ashamed and guilty when I straightened my hair. Friends always made sure to warn me of the damage I was causing and assumed I was trying to hide a part of myself that I was insecure about. But straightening my hair wasn’t about fitting in or hiding something. It was about wearing my hair the way I liked it, and that’s what style is all about.

Brandy Melville Hat, Urban Outfitters Striped Sweater, STS Blue Jeans, Lucky Brand Bootles, Nordstrom Sunnies

“While clothes may not make the woman, they certainly have a strong effect on her self-confidence, which, I believe, does make the woman.” -Mary Kay Ash

Reflection

Since it is now 2016, I think it is appropriate to reflect on some of my favorite blog posts–going all the way back to the beginning! I love looking back and seeing how my style has evolved. I’m proud of these looks. This blog has been a wonderful outlet, and I’m so excited for what’s to come!

Happy New Year!!!

Urban Dress

Urban Outfitters Dress

Express Top

Express Top

Zara Heels

Zara Heels

Levi's Jeans

Levi’s Jeans

Urban Outfitters Pants

Urban Outfitters Pants

H&M Jacket

H&M Jacket

Target Purse

Target Purse

Nordstrom Crop Top

Nordstrom Crop Top

Cathy Jean Booties

Cathy Jean Booties

Lucky Brand Boyfriend Jeans

Lucky Brand Boyfriend Jeans

Cotton On Scarf

Cotton On Scarf

Target Dress

Target Dress

Sundance Earrings

Sundance Earrings

Urban Outfitters Pants

Urban Outfitters Pants

Brandy Melville Dress

Brandy Melville Dress

American Apparel Top

American Apparel Top

The Sak Purse

The Sak Purse

Brandy Melville Hat

Brandy Melville Hat

“Style is a way to say who you are without having to speak.” -Rachel Zoe