Polka Dots For Spring

Polka Dots, Spring, Express Blouse, Pattern

As a young girl, I loved wearing polka dots. Somewhere down the line, I realized I had grown out of them. I found myself overlooking the pattern in stores and eventually came to the conclusion polka dots were just for kids.

Polka Dots, Spring, Express Blouse, Pattern

I couldn’t have been more wrong. In recent months, I’ve found myself reaching again and again for the fun pattern. I’ve learned that polka dots are more than just youthful, but they can also add personality to a professional, classy look.

Polka Dots, Spring, Express Blouse, Pattern

I’m not sure if it’s the playful spirit of spring that has gotten me back into my favorite childhood trend, but in this modern, stressful society, it can be refreshing to embrace the lighthearted kid in all of us.

Polka Dots, Spring, Express Blouse, Pattern

“You can’t have a bad day in polka dots.” —Anna Kendrick

On Me: 

Fall Inspiration

Fall is finally here! Hands down, this is my favorite season, and October is the best month of the year where I live. I love the cooler weather, shorter days, and cozy vibes that Fall brings, and we can’t forget about the fashion, of course! I wanted to share some Fall trends to look out for, according to a few bloggers that have been inspiring me for years. Check them out:

Plaid Please

Plaid, Gal Meets Glam

Gal Meets Glam

Plaid is definitely back in style. I used to wear plaid a lot when I was a kid and have since tried to incorporate it into my wardrobe with bits and pieces, like a subtle scarf here and there, but now I feel like I can really dive in. I love the look of a plaid skirt. And no, I don’t mean like an old Britney Spears music video, but rather something a little longer, classier, and paired with a chunky sweater and boots.

Plaid Skirt

ModCloth

Plaid Skirt

Philosophy

Say “Yes” to Camel

Camel Clothes, Damsel in Dior

Damsel In Dior

Camel is one of the colors I rarely gravitate towards, but all of a sudden I’m thinking I need to hop on the trend train. Camel is simple, yet sophisticated. The earthy tone suits Fall perfectly, bringing out the foliage nicely. I love an oversized camel sweater or dress, and maybe even a camel wool coat too. It’s meant to be a statement piece, and that statement is understated elegance.

Camel Oversized Sweater

Boohoo

Camel Wool Coat

ASOS

Pleated Skirts are Unexpectedly Fun

Late Afternoon, Pleated Skirts

Late Afternoon

A long pleated skirt has been on my wish list for some time now, but I’ve been seeing them a lot lately. Long skirts transition well—you can pair them with a sweater or heavier coat, flats or booties, and dress them up or down. They are a must-have closet staple, and add just a tad of special to an ordinary style.

Pleated Skirts

Vince Camuto

Pleated Skirts

LOFT

Pop Some Color

Natalie Dressed, Earrings

Natalie Dressed

Usually when I think of Fall, I imagine muted colors and tones, like tan, burgundy, and green. But I love the way an accessory can add a pop to a Fall outfit. It isn’t overwhelming, just a little something to make you look twice. One bright color can be the best complement to an otherwise understated look. I love the splash of a brightly colored scarf, tights, or piece of jewelry.

Bright Earrings

Kenneth Jay Lane

Bright Earrings

Reva

Meet my Good Friend, Suede

Something Navy, Suede

Something Navy

Suede is a great alternative to a heavy leather jacket. It’s lighter, subtler, and softer! The brown suede jacket is a classic look for Fall, but other colors are fun too. A warm burgundy or orange is a playful way to wear the fabric. Suede makes everything more fashionable. Throw it over a simple t-shirt and jeans; you’ll be ready for whatever the day has in store!

suede jacket

KUT From The Kloth

Suede Jacket

Missguided

“I’m so glad I live in a world where there are Octobers.” – L.M. Montgomery

SaveSave

Playing with Patterns

Tank Top, Denim Skirt, Heels, sunglasses

I’ve always been drawn to a fun print; there’s something so effortless about throwing on a playful top–the rest just falls into place.

Tank Top, Denim Skirt, Heels, sunglasses

During the warmer months I especially love to experiment with my wardrobe. That means switching out my favorite basics for something with a little more personality.

Tank Top, Denim Skirt, Heels, sunglasses

A feminine pattern is my favorite. A delicate design with light colors complements my style nicely. Pairing a fun top with a neutral bottom ensures my look isn’t overwhelming. I try to keep the rest of my look a little muted too—natural makeup and hair, a low heel.

Tank Top, Denim Skirt, Heels, sunglasses

It can be fun to step out of your comfort zone for a while, and playing dress up never gets old. Soon you get so comfortable trying new looks, you realize you aren’t playing anymore. You’re just being you.

Tank Top, Denim Skirt, Heels, sunglasses

On Me: Urban Top (old)–Similar Styles here and here

Levi’s Skirt (old)–Similar Style here

Summer Prints

Forever 21 Pants, Lucky Brand Sandals, Urban Jean Jacket

Summer is the perfect time of year to play with fun prints!

Forever 21 Pants, Lucky Brand Sandals, Urban Jean Jacket

Whenever I’m on vacation I take the opportunity to step out of my comfort zone–wear things I wouldn’t normally wear to school (or work). That means fun colors, styles, and prints!

Forever 21 Pants, Lucky Brand Sandals, Urban Jean Jacket

Experimenting is easiest for me when I choose one aspect of my look to accent. When I found these pants I just had to have them. They felt retro and feminine–my favorite combination.

Forever 21 Pants, Lucky Brand Sandals, Urban Jean Jacket

Though they came with a matching top, I decided to pair them with a neutral tank, jean jacket, and sandals to keep the outfit a little more casual and a little more me.

“I like to reinvent myself — it’s part of my job.”
― Karl Lagerfeld

On Me: Forever 21 Pants, Lucky Brand Sandals, Urban Denim Jacket

Photo Shoot in the Park

My theme for Summer has been trying to find alternatives to denim shorts, but then I found these…

Forever 21 Printed Top, Levis Cutoffs, Strappy Wedges, Nordstrom Sunnies, Target Bag

Usually all of the denim cutoffs I try on are too tight around my thighs and fall too low on my waist! These are different.

Forever 21 Printed Top, Levis Cutoffs, Strappy Wedges, Nordstrom Sunnies, Target Bag

These Levi’s are loose and comfortable. They scream Summertime! And unlike most pairs of jean shorts, I can dress them up a bit with a nice wedge, patterned shirt, and red lip.

Forever 21 Printed Top, Levis Cutoffs, Strappy Wedges, Nordstrom Sunnies, Target Bag

Joel and I had been searching high and low for the best photoshoot location. We had actually given up by the time we pulled into the neighborhood park.

Forever 21 Printed Top, Levis Cutoffs, Strappy Wedges, Nordstrom Sunnies, Target Bag

I ended up gravitating towards this green bench. The next thing I knew we were in full on photoshoot mode.

Forever 21 Printed Top, Levis Cutoffs, Strappy Wedges, Nordstrom Sunnies, Target Bag

There is something so calm and peaceful about spending an afternoon in the park. The grass is green, the sun sets, and time begins to slow down just for a moment…

Forever 21 Printed Top, Levis Cutoffs, Strappy Wedges, Nordstrom Sunnies, Target Bag

Once we got there I had wished we packed a picnic and a couple novels to unwind with.

Forever 21 Printed Top, Levis Cutoffs, Strappy Wedges, Nordstrom Sunnies, Target Bag

Instead, we sat in silence on the cool green bench, watching the day turn to night.

Forever 21 Printed Top, Levis Cutoffs, Strappy Wedges, Nordstrom Sunnies, Target Bag

It may sound funny, but every time I wear these shorts I will always remember the feeling I had in the park that day.

Forever 21 Printed Top, Levis Cutoffs, Strappy Wedges, Nordstrom Sunnies, Target Bag

Summer was eternal that afternoon, and I love those few pieces of clothing that transcend through time the way a memory can.

Forever 21 Printed Top, Levis Cutoffs, Strappy Wedges, Nordstrom Sunnies, Target Bag

This patterned shirt could have been worn in the 20s or 60s, it can be dressed up or down, and it breathes with the wind.

Forever 21 Printed Top, Levis Cutoffs, Strappy Wedges, Nordstrom Sunnies, Target Bag

Whether it be a pair of Levi’s, irreplaceable shoes, or a timeless blouse, clothing is a connection we have with each other, the past, and the future.

Forever 21 Printed Top, Levis Cutoffs, Strappy Wedges, Nordstrom Sunnies, Target Bag

“Summer has filled her veins with light and her heart is washed with noon.” – C. Day Lewis

Forever 21 Printed Top, Levis Cutoffs, Strappy Wedges, Nordstrom Sunnies, Target Bag

Shop my look: Blouse

Cutoffs

Wedges

Purse

Floral Favorites

One of my favorite patterns to wear in the Summer is Floral.

Urban Outfitters black tank top, Urban Outfitters floral shorts, scrappy wedges, Nordstrom sunnies

A good floral pattern is a classic staple to have in your closet. This particular pattern adds a romantic feel to a simple summer look.

Urban Outfitters black tank top, Urban Outfitters floral shorts, scrappy wedges, Nordstrom sunnies

I have been obsessing over accent pieces recently, and these definitely fall into that category.

Urban Outfitters black tank top, Urban Outfitters floral shorts, scrappy wedges, Nordstrom sunnies

I know so many people that are scared to wear bright colors…

Urban Outfitters black tank top, Urban Outfitters floral shorts, scrappy wedges, Nordstrom sunnies

Floral patterns are the perfect way to start stepping out of your comfort zone. The rest of your outfit can be completely tame by bringing out only one of the other colors in the pattern. I chose black because I was going for a more neutral look, but green or red would have worked nicely too.

My whole outfit can be found at Urban Outfitters.

ModCloth has some great floral pieces too: ModCloth Floral Patterns

ModCloth Floral Patterns

ModCloth Floral Patterns

ModCloth Floral Patterns

ModCloth Floral Patterns

Day Party

Most of us picture holiday parties happening at night. However, many parties do occur in the day time. But what is appropriate to wear during the day?! I mean, it’s so easy to OVER DO IT.

Here is what I advise:

Day Party

Holiday dresses can scream formal. Switching it up with a skirt and an eye catching top is a great alternative.

Day Party

Velvet is a perfect material for the season. All you have to do is commit to a color scheme, and the outfit will appear as just the right amount of fancy and understated. 

Day Party

Wear heels, but something a little more casual– open toes to show off your fun holiday nails will do the trick! Don’t hold back on your accessories. Classy jewelry will keep your look whole.

Day Party

If you’re every worried about what to do with your hair, just wear it down. It’s effortless, yet beautiful. Keep your make-up refined. A deep lip that matches the color scheme, and lots of mascara will be just enough.

On my sister: Urban Outfitters Top and Skirt

Steve Madden Heels

Sundance Jewelry

L’Oreal Blushing Berry Lips

The Unconventional School Girl

Remember this?

School Girl Spears

Since it’s Halloween, I’m going to talk about how you can turn a costume into an everyday outfit!

School girl Outfit

Featuring my little sis, it’s easy to see how a few changes can really change EVERYTHING.

School girl Outfit

An outfit needs to have dignity, which means, show some self worth and cover up (a little). You can still show off your legs, just don’t show off everything. Maintaining curiosity is all part of the school girl demeanor. Wear flats, not heals. Keep the pig tails…and you’re ready for class.

School girl Outfit

For Halloween, it’s ok to go ALL out on make-up. In fact, check out this tutorial by The Western Wild. I LOVE costume make-up. However, switching to everyday mode calls for keeping things clean and simple. Urban Decay Naked 2 is the best natural shadow.

School girl Outfit

Outfit: H&M Tank

Similar Skirt by Brandy

Cathy Jean Flats

Urban Necklace

Three Years

Forever 21 statement necklace, Uniqlo satin button down, lucky boyfriend jeans, American Eagle polka dot sneakers, Nordstrom sunnies,The Sak bag

It’s my Three Year Anniversary! Last night we went out to our favorite sushi place, tonight we are seeing Fury, and tomorrow night we are going to Alcatraz!

Forever 21 statement necklace, Uniqlo satin button down, lucky boyfriend jeans, American Eagle polka dot sneakers, Nordstrom sunnies,The Sak bag

Whenever I go out, I usually do the typical heels, maybe a dress, or at least skinny jeans thing. For some reason, I felt like mixing it up last night. Why can’t we still dress up without feeling uncomfortable?

Forever 21 statement necklace, Uniqlo satin button down, lucky boyfriend jeans, American Eagle polka dot sneakers, Nordstrom sunnies,The Sak bag

I opted for the statement necklace and satin button down to keep my look classy. Sometimes that’s all you really need.

American Eagle polka dot sneakers

And my new shoes from American Eagle, of course! This season I am all about patterns; it adds personality and flavor to any look.

Forever 21 statement necklace, Uniqlo satin button down, lucky boyfriend jeans, American Eagle polka dot sneakers, Nordstrom sunnies,The Sak bag, Hollister coat

I’m not sure if I mentioned this, but I recently started working at Abercrombie & Fitch (this deserves an entire blog post, I know). Anyway, I get discounted clothes not only from Abercrombie and Abercrombie Kids, but also Hollister, which is where this coat is from!

Forever 21 statement necklace, Uniqlo satin button down, lucky boyfriend jeans, American Eagle polka dot sneakers, Nordstrom sunnies,The Sak bag, Hollister coat

Surprisingly, one of my best buys! It can be casual, fancy, and actually really useful in the city! More importantly, just what I needed to top off my date night look.

Wish List

Two Piece Reformation

I need to invest in a versatile two piece, and Reformation has the best variety!

Levis LVC

A pair of selvedge jeans for women– LVC and made in the USA!

Levis Purse

To match the jeans, a brown leather purse from Levi’s.

Anthropologie

I have a feeling that patterned pants will be in for fall, and Anthropolgie has the best girly/comfy patterns to choose from.

ModCloth flats

I am so used to wearing black flats, but it’s finally time to step out of my comfort zone. ModCloth’s flats are so irresistible– I think I’ll start there…

Naked2Basics

Fall calls for a change in make-up. It’s not quite as dry as winter will be, but the change in seasons is still quite noticeable. That means adding a little more color to my eyes, and Naked2Basics by Urban Decay is the perfect choice.

Diary Of A Mad Diva by Joan Rivers

The recent death of this fashion icon has given me the opportunity to learn more about how she paved the way for so many women. I can’t wait to start reading!