Spring Style Inspiration

Here are just a few photos and elements that are inspiring me style-wise this spring. Some are old, some are recycled die-hards from years past.

Vinage-y Florals

I love a good floral. This year I am digging more vintage-y looking florals with dusty mint, mossy green, and light cream.

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SLBD AKA Sexy Little Button Down

Yes, I just made that acronym up myself. I’m clever, I know. A true Gemini. But seriously, There’s nothing I love more that a soft, BF style button down. The versatility this piece provides makes me giddy just thinking about it. tuck it into skirt, tie it over this maxi, throw it on with jeans and flats, roll up the sleeves and leave two-too many buttons undone, wear it as a light jacket with an embroidered camisole like this one, I am going to stop now because I’m getting too excited…I am also digging a little gingham gone sexy! This print can look a little tablecloth, but a touch of sexiness like a short short or deep-v should do the trick.

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Crochet

On one hand it reminds me of a grandmother’s handmade blanket, on the other hand it adds interest and texture to a look. Either way, it’s caught my eye. I would love a crochet bikini. It’s a fine line between grandma and sexy, but I’m determined to try it out beach-side this year. I’m thinking a tote is a great way to dip my toe in the crochet water. I am in LOVE with Olivia Palermo’s texture-rific bag. I’d love a bigger one to go from plane to sigh-seeing to beach on vaca.

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Maxi Dresses

I  know these have been in the rotation for years for many, but I really haven’t been psyched about them until this year. I’m a slow trend bloomer at times. I think my subconscious is just looking out to see what has staying power before jumping in full force. Actually, now that I think about it, I really am a look-before-I-jump kind of gal. Anyways. There are a few different styles I can’t wait to get my hands on this year.

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Stripes

The pattern that never gets old. Ever. They are just everything. Depending on the garment and colors they range from sexy to adorable, preppy to cool, trendy to classic, sophisticated to edgy. A comfy yet sexy striped tee with jeans is going to be my go-to-look for traveling this spring. And I can’t wait to prance around in a little striped tee-dress.

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2015 Fashion Resolutions

I can’t believe it’s 2015. Where is the time going? I feel like the years are whipping by and to be honest it freaks me out, but this feeling is also teaching me that I need to have as much fun as possible and be the best I can be everyday, because time is so fleeting. Hey, I think I just came up with my New Year’s Resolution!

Anyways, I thought it would be fun to do a little Fashion New Year’s Resolution. Why not? Resolutions are usually about bettering ourselves, so why not try to better the way we present ourselves to the world this year?

Here are a few of my personal Fashion New Year’s Resolutions.

 

1. Make More Thoughtful Purchases. Less is more, and quality over quantity are good words to live by. I don’t know one girl that isn’t guilty of stumbling over an amazing sale and over-stocking with things that aren’t entirely necessary. Nothing makes me more anxious than an overstuffed closet full of cheap crap. I still need to work on not making impulse purchases myself, and I want to do that by sticking to a list of what I need for each season and not getting lured in by emails that say “50% off everything”.

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2. Be More Creative. I started paying back my student loans this month, which means it’s time to cut back on other purchases in order to get that very expensive education paid for as soon as possible. I envy girls who can take items they have in their closet and use their creativity to make them as versatile as possible.

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3. Focus on Fit. I notice a lot of the time while I’m trolling Pinterest that I’ll see a girl in a fairly plain outfit and think “how does she look so immaculate in just jeans and a tee with ballet flats?” I see this with Olivia Palermo allllllll the time: her jeans hug her legs perfectly and are hemmed to just the right length, her tops hit at the perfect spot on the hips, and her jackets look like they were made for her. Tailoring tends to make the most inexpensive pieces look more expensive, and even more importantly, flatter the body better. I am guilty of not wanting to take the time to go to the tailor, being afraid they will ruin a piece I love so much, wanting to wear the thing right now, or not buying something I love because the fit isn’t perfect. But I realize when I look at others that it is necessary and something I need to do more.

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4. Pay More Attention to Details. This year I realized the magic of accessories and the power they have over an outfit. This year, I am going to continue to pay attention to the things that make an outfit special and personal. Layering dainty rings, gold bracelets, and statement necklaces always gives a look pizazz. Also under details I want to address the importance of good hair and makeup. I notice that if the hair is ratted and the makeup is caked on, I don’t appreciate, or even notice, the great dress that a girl might be wearing. This is especially true when going for a classic, simple look. The hair, skin, and even nails, are everything.

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#WCW: Kristin Cavallari

I have been following KCav’s style since her bitch days on the Hills and always loved her classic, sexy style. I love a girl who has amazing legs and shows them off well, and she does it with skinnies, minis, and rompers. Because she is a Chicagoan like myself, I love following her winter style. OMG I almost forgot about the SHOES! Her shoe line. It’s to die. I am asking for a pair of her booties for Christmas 😉

Below are a few (actually a ton) of my favorite KCav looks…

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Give Thanks for Style

Ok, there are more important things to give thanks for. But I couldn’t help myself with the play on words. There are many routes when choosing a look for thanksgiving day. I mostly like to dress-down this day and save my dressier looks for Christmas and Thanksgiving, but to each their own. Below are a few options for Thanksgiving Day attire, depending on the environment. While we are on the topic of giving thanks, here is a short list of what I am thankful for this year:

• My Health
• Family and friends and their health
• My amazing boyfriend and moving into our first home together this year
• My career opportunities
• Receiving my degree from Michigan State last spring
• The creative ventures and opportunities I have had this year
• My strength and confidence in a time of change and transition

Now onto the fashion…

Dressy

This is the perfect look for the holidays that doesn’t scream “festive holiday wear”. No need to pair tights with this dress. The house will be warm enough with every burner and stove on cooking up the deliciousness and the house packed with hot bodies.

Stella McCartney Blazer, Pelle Moda Heels, Lulu’s Dress, Chosth Necklace, Lulu Townsend Clutch

Dressy-Casual

These jogger trousers are comfy to lounge in after the big meal, yet dressy and family-photo worthy (I need these for work!!!). I love how the leopard booties, fur bag, and jewels add a personal touch to this simple foundation of an outfit.

Bauble Bar Necklace, Aldo Bag, Whistles Blouse, Miss Selfridge Ring, Bamboo Bootie, Topshop Pants

Casual

This Zara sweater is my newest addition to my winter wardrobe and I’m slightly obsessed. I love the texture of the Mohair and the perfect caramel color. With a legging jean and patent pump it’s the perfect look for a casual holiday gathering.

Lori’s Cuff, Vince Camuto Bag, Prima Donna Necklace, Zara Sweater, Joe’s Jeans, Chinese Laundry Pumps

Ultimate Comfort

For the small Thanksgiving gathering and ultimate comfort level, this is the perfect outfit that is just as cozy as your PJ’s, but much more chic. Moody nails are the easiest accessory and a must for any winter outfit in my opinion. And of course, loafers are the most obvious shoe of choice for comfort.

Kendra Scott Cuff, Urban Originals Bag, Zara Sweater, H&M Loafers, Essie Nail Polish in Dress to Kilt, Dorothy Perkins Leggings (Sold Out)

 

Travel Garb

The Holidays = Traveling. It’s gritty reality for a lot of us. Packing and dressing for such an event as city to city to city travel can be daunting. I always want to look nice and ready to go out for dinner and hangout upon arrival, yet not have to lug around an over-flowing suitcase. Below are a few of my favorite traveling get-ups that are comfy and practical, yet can easily be dressed up for a night out.

 

Day 1

Layers are #1 priority when dressing prior to hitting the road. This outfit is great because its stylish, yet warm. You can loose the sweater and scarf throughout the day as it warms up. Sunglasses are also a must have to cover up those tired eyes and help you catch some Z’s while on the plane/train or in the car.

Marc by Marc Jacobs Sunnies, H&M Jeans, Danielle Nicole Bag, Black Five Sweater, Helmut Lang Tee, H&M Scarf, Forever 21 Watch, Forever 21 Shoes

Night 1

A blazer always dresses up the most casual of outfits and is so versatile. Next, switch out the day-time accessories for some night-out worthy ones and it’s time to hit the town.

Nouv-Elle Necklace, Forever 21 Watch, Ash Clutch, Vera Moda Blazer, Nine West Bootie, Helmut Lang Tee, H&M Jeans

Day 2

Nothing is more comfy than a tee-shirt dress. This one is so adorable and easy to wear. A leather tote is necessary when traveling. It’s a great accessory and will also carry books, mags, a water bottle, phone charger, travel itineraries, and the like.

H&M Scarf, Aldo Bag, Lulu’s Dress, Hue Tights, Mango Booties, BTB Link Bracelet, BTB Newport Bracelet, Sole Society Cuff

Night 2

Sparkly tights are easy to shove in your super-packed suitcase and can easily dress-up a casual dress. Again, it’s all in the accessories. The gold studs, fab belt, heels, and python bag take this t-shirt dress up a notch.

Sole Society Earrings, Prima Donna Purse, Lulu’s Dress, Chinese Laundry Heels, Express Tights, Warehouse Belt (Sold Out)

Day 3

I just got this Zara sweater, and it is to die. A sweater this cozy and soft, yet so incredibly chic, is prime for traveling. Distressed jeans make it more edgy/sexy and in my opinion, it was made for a fantastic cuff. Since travel is all about comfort, lets talk loafers. They are the most comfortable, stylish flat that ever existed. These patent leather ones are sure to take every outfit to “fashion mogul” status.

New Look Sunglasses, Miss Selfridge Bag, Zara Sweater, Madewell Loafers, H&M Jeans, Prima Donna Cuff, Asos Ring (Sold Out)

Night 3

Statement jewelry is the ultimate way to dress up an outfit. You can pack multiples in your suitcase and make your outfits look unique and different every day of your trip (with extra room for holiday gifts). Again, add a little bag and pumps to dress up your jeans and sweater.

Sole Society Necklace, Asos Purse (Sold Out), Zara Sweater, Kristin Cavallari for Chinese Laundry Pumps, H&M Jeans, Prima Donna Cuff, Asos Ring (Sold Out)

Future Looks: Winter Style

Gimme the fashion! The winter fashion, that is. I am about to go way off topic as usual but, OMG I love Polyvore. Playing dress-up is one of my favorite activities. But….the clothes strewn all over the floor, hopping over shoes, and putting it all back afterwards? No thanks. The solution: Virtual dress-up parties on Polyvore! A major Polyvore Perk is when I am thinking about adding a piece to my wardrobe, but I am  unsure of how versatile it will be/what I can wear it with in my closet. Polyvore to the rescue! I absolutely love it. The wanna-be-stylist in me cannot get enough.

But anyways, below are a few of my latest Polyvore creations for this winter:

Cat Eye Sunnies + Chunky Sweater

Cat eye sunglasses with a fab sweater and moody nails = winter chic

Rag and Bone Sweater, Mango Ankle Boots, New Look Sunglasses, Malene Birger Leggings, Faith Bag (Sold Out), Essie Nailpolish, Nordstrom Cuff (Sold Out)

Studs + Leopard

Leopard can look either so chic and expensive or tacky and cheap. These pumps are leopard print done right at an excellent price. Love them paired with art deco jewelry and this standout tote.

Handbag Heaven Purse, Mango Blouse, Anne Michelle Pumps, Joe’s Jeans, Prima Donna Necklace (Sold Out), Seiko Watch

Mixed Prints/Textures

More leopard…obviously I’m obsessed with this print. I see it almost as a neutral, so pairing it with a similar, small print is so stylish and interesting. Also, I love crocodile leggings because they have less of the (unforgiving) sheen of leather-like leggings, but are still sexy and just as versatile. Paired with some Gold shine, bling, and a snakeprint? PERFECTION.

Marc Jacobs Blouse, Prima Donna Purse, David Lerner Leggings, Timex Watch (Sold Out), Charlotte Olympia Booties, Greenbeads Ring

Layering + Skinnies

The winters are so brutally cold here in the midwest, so layering is an absolute must. But it doesn’t have to leave you looking like the Michellin Man or a Frumpy Grumpy-puss. This outfit points towards Glamour-puss instead.

H&M Sweater, Nic + Zoe Shirt, Mango Bag, Bauble Bar Necklace, Schutz Shoes, A Gold E Jeans

Scarf + Tee

Some winter days I just want to keep it simple, yet rich. These colors and elements do just that. You can’t go wrong with a cozy long sleeve tee and jeans. The scarf, jewels, and sophisticated bag and shoes up the glam.

Windsor Watch (Sold Out), Base Range Tee, Saint Laurent Bag, Accessorize Ring (Sold Out), Nine West Booties, Frame Denim, Forever 21 Scarf

Accessorize Your Coat

How annoying is it when you go into the effort of putting together the perfect outfit, only to cover it up with a big, puffy coat? Well, why not make your coat the focal point and make it the main part of your outfit instead of an accent? Houndstooth is the perfect winter print to pair with a plain black coat to take it up a notch and the tights and shoes are so festive!

Blue Nile Earrings, Express Tights, Chinese Laundry Heels, H&M Coat, Forever 21 Scarf, Neiman Marcus Bag

Hello Holiday Season: Style Inspirations

The holiday season is upon us. Christmas music is abound, twinkly lights are strung on every tree, pine scented candles litter my apartment, and the first few flakes have officially fallen here in Metro Detroit [today!!]. I have to admit it: I don’t love this time of year. *gasp* I know, but with having family in a few different states, traveling in not-so-pleasant Midwestern weather is a nightmare for my super-calm (sarcastic) self. Also gift receiving and giving is anxiety inducing.

But who doesn’t get a little pumped about the holiday spirit? Winter fashion and holiday attire makes my heart pitter-pat. What other time of year can you be dripping in jewels, sparkles, gold lame, velvet, chunky knit, etc. and it be appropriate? Below are a few of my current winter style inspirations.

 

Leather and Knit

My leather jacket is a winter-time die-hard. With a soft, sexy, scrumptious sweater dress? Yes, please.

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Standout Studs + Fuzzy Sweaters

When its cold out, being comfy cozy is a must. Fuzzy sweaters are warm AND stylish. Win. The studs add a little glam.

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Sparkly Accessories

It’s the holidays…Need I say more?

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Blazer + Jeans + Standout pumps

Blazers are my go-to during the holiday season. They are versatile, warm, and sophisticated.

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Layering

Love how this look is layered and warm, but without the bulkiness.

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Sequin Blazer

With a graphic tee, skinnies, and fierce pumps? Dying.

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Thigh-High Boots

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Cat Eye Sunglasses + Bold Lip

I am on the hunt for the perfect cat eye sunglasses. They make every outfit chic. And with a bold lip? Look out!

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Fall/Winter Work Wear

When it’s chilly [frigid] outside, all I want to do is be cozy in jeans and a giant sweater. Unfortunately, that outfit doesn’t fly in the workplace. I am on a mission to find outfits that are just as comfortable and warm as being in my PJ’s on a snow day, but exude sophistication. Below are some outfits I put together, perfect for the chilly cubicle….

Monday

Topshop Tights (sold out), 9 & Co. Boots (sold out), Rag and Bone Sweater, H&M Skirt, Baublebar Earrings (sold out)

Tuesday

H&M Necklace, Forever 21 Flats, Rewind Vintage Affairs Fur Jacket, Asos Bag, H&M Blazer, Michael Kors Trouser, Delias Button Down

Wednesday

H&M Necklace, Tory Burch Bag, Helmut Lang Jacket, BCBG Pump, River Island Top (sold out), J. Crew Trouser

Thursday

Rebecca Taylor Jacket, Express Bag (sold out), J. Crew Sweater, Rosegold Jenny Bootie, Apt. 9 Skirt, Timex Watch, Topshop Tights (sold out)

Friday

Kenneth Jay Lane Necklace, Sole Society Bag, H&M Sweater, Kristin Cavallari for Chines Laundry Pump, Theory Pant

Autumn Uniform: Jeans & Sweaters for Every Fall Occasion

I hate winter. Spring, Summer, and Fall are what it’s all about. Fall especially. I dig the fall candles, apple crisp, warm soup on a chilly night, and the smell of a bonfire. The frigid weather that comes next is the only problem. The only way I can deal is knowing I can dig out the sweaters and skinny’s. I’m embarrassed to say how many sweaters and jeans I own, but the outfit opportunities are endless. Behold….

Thursday Night Dinner Date

Asos Clutch, Bauble Bar Earrings, J. Crew Sweater, Rachel Roy Heels (Sold Out), Joe’s Jeans

 Wednesday Movie Night

Eight Sixty Sweater, Coconuts Bootie, H&M Jeans, Sole Society Bag, Forever 21 Earrings

Casual Friday

H&M Cardigan, H&M Boots, A Gold E Jeans, Timex Watch, Arden B. Bracelet (Sold Out), IIIBeca by Joy Gryson Bag

Saturday Shopping

Topshop Sweater, H&M Boot, Zara Bag, Accessorize Ring, Arden B. Bracelet (Sold Out)

Sunday Morning Brunch

Sole Society Necklace (Sold Out), Claire V Clutch, Lucky Brand Flats, Rag and Bone Sweater, H&M Jeans

My Fall Boot Resolution

Without setting out to, I declared a boot resolution for myself this fall: do something different! Brown, knee-high, flat, leather riding boots are fine and practical, but boring, in my most honest opinion. This is a comfortable, weather appropriate, versatile shoe, but I’m kind of over them! I’m ready to see and wear something different. In come the alternatives:

{Created on Polyvore}

1. Buckled: I have last year’s style of this boot in brown and they are my absolute favorite boot for fall. If I could only pick one bootie for fall, it would be these for their versatility, comfort, and classic style. I just picked up this black pair and can’t wait to take them for a spin. LC Lauren Conrad Two Buckle Ankle Boot

2. Patterned: These are way out of my comfort zone, so that’s why they are a great idea. This pattern is so fun and sexy with a LBD or leggings. Kristin Cavallari ‘Cai’ Wedge Bootie

3. Sleek Patent Leather: These say “modern” to me and I love the rich brown color. I want to wear these with trousers at work! H&M Boots

4. Color Block: I am crazy for navy blue and emerald in a shoe. The snake print on the back of the heel is the cherry on top. Kristin Cavallari Allure Bootie in Emerald/Navy

5. Studded: An edgy spin on the black bootie. The gold hardware makes them look so much more expensive than they are. H&M Studded Bootie

6. Navy Blue Over-The-Knee Suede: I am really digging suede and OTK styles when it comes to boots and this navy blue pair are a great alternative to keep warm on snowy days instead of the boring black riding boot everyone else will be wearing. Don’t forget to weather proof! Unisa Gillean OTK Boot

7. Slouchy Heeled Knee-High: If the OTK boot options are too far out of the box from the typical black riding boot, this guy is the ticket. The slouchy style shakes things up, yet the black color still keeps it versatile and classic. Diba Pilot Slouch Boot

8. OTK Brown Suede: Such a versatile boot. Wear them with super skinny jeans and a chunky sweater or a mini-dress for ultimate sex appeal. H&M Knee High Boot