OOTD-This and That

Happy Friday guys!! Are you pooped from all of last night's Fashion Night Out festivities? I tried to hang, but just couldn't do it beyond checking out a handful of stores (I can't imagine what it was like in NYC). I must be getting old because the crowds were too much for me. I did get a free cupcake though, so life is good.

I felt unintentionally patriotic in this outfit with the red, white and blue colors running through my jacket and pants. But it also felt awesome because I stepped out of my comfort zone with some mixing. I tried texture with pattern which is a bit more subtle than pattern and pattern. Who knows what might come next? I saw this outfit on Net-a-Porter's website recently that has my fashion wheels turning. I want to reinvigorate the outfit combinations I can create with my current clothing so I don't feel the need to go out and buy a new wardrobe. I'm trying to please my wallet a bit more right now since I still haven't found that money tree or won the lottery. But if I go temporarily insane and end up buying something ridiculously expensive like this, I will plead that I was blinded by the pretty.

What Fall/Winter trend are you excited to try out?

 

Outfit Details:

Red tank- Old Navy (on sale here and in other colors, blouse option here, cute star print option here)

Flower jeans- LC Lauren Conrad for Kohls (available here, alternative for the new season here)

Tweed blazer- Banana Republic (alternative here and here)

Blue handbag- Zara (available here in a gorgeous bordeaux color, also available here in other colors)

Tan sandals- Sam Edelman (available here in limited sizes, I LOVE THESE SANDALS, GET A PAIR)

Arrow necklace- Stella & Dot (available here in silver, cute alternative with a heart too here, easy on the budget option here)

Bead necklace- DIY project (modeled after this necklace here in limited quantities, also available here)

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OOTD-A Mixed Up Jumble

You know the mixing pattern rule that tells you to pull a color from one of the patterns and make sure it's in the other print for some level of cohesion? Well, I decided to take that rule and run with it for this outfit. I'm still trying to figure out if it worked....the jury is out on that one. I've had this top for awhile and I absolutely love it because of how many different colors are in it. This makes it the perfect candidate for mixing so I grabbed a few things with green, blue and a bit of orange in it and created this outfit. Not exactly pattern with pattern, but pattern with texture is close enough, right?

I hope you all have a fabulous weekend!! I'll be attending some family reunion activities this weekend so I'm sure to meet a ton of relatives and long-lost cousins twice removed or something like that. :)

Outfit Details:

Top- (old) Thakoon for Target (possible top option here)

Green tweed skirt- J.Crew outlet (similar here and here in a darker green)

Tan belt- J.Crew

Blue handbag-Zara (similar here, here and here)

Colorblock flats- Isabel Toledo for Payless (an alternative for the new season here by the same designer, cute alternative here)

OOTD- A Few of My Favorite Things

Purple, tweed, stripes and these Miu Miu shoes are just a few of my favorite things. This outfit is a hodge-podge of a few old closet friends (with my new tee) and I went out on a ledge with the two different necklines going on, but I love the lady-like details and all the colors, pattern and texture. All winners in my book, plus it doesn't hurt that these shoes always make me feel like a glamazon. How does that not make any outfit feel fabulous?

What do you wear to make you feel fabulous? Is it a favorite lipstick or a special pair of earrings? 

Outfit Details:

Striped tee- J. Crew (available here, similar in a lighter blue here)

Tweed blazer (old)- Banana Republic (similar style here)

Purple skirt and brown belt- thrifted

Leopard hat- Albertus Swanepoel for Target (cute straw alternative here)

Umbrella- Missoni for Target (similar here)

Tan platform heels (consignment find)- Miu Miu (similar style here and here)

Tan handbag- Rebecca Minkoff (same style in alternative color here, similar here)

Notes from the Dressing Room-Lady Chic at Ann Taylor

While I was working my way through the Christmas list (last-minute), I headed out to a few stores last week. Ann Taylor was in the neighborhood and as I was perusing the store, I couldn't help but think that I might have to set aside funds for some future purchases (they are trying to steal what I would set aside for J. Crew).

They are currently still offering 50% off, so definitely check them out. Here are a few dressing room pics of a few things that caught my eye:

Fireside Blouse, $98, available here

Tweed Mini Skirt, $98, available here

I love a vibrant color and this red-orange beauty is a great option. It is nicely fitted, the buttons lay flat with hardly any kind of button gaping that is usually an issue and it would be perfect paired alone or under a blazer. I didn't even realize it until I read the product description, but it has a subtle animal print. That makes it even better in my book. If I'm not mistaken the size I'm wearing is petite which fit pretty well and didn't have as much length at the bottom which works for me since I am short-waisted. Considering that this is polyester, I don't think it is worth the full price, but at 1/2 price, it goes up several notches to the possible buy category. Fit is tts.

Tweed! Glorious tweed!! I just gravitate towards certain fabrics and tweed is one of them. This skirt has a simple straight shape, contrasting color detail and best of all, the tweed has a bit of color weaved through it. I like the black lines (fyi, it does not continue through the back), but I know that might not work for others. It fit comfortably in my regular size, my only complaint is that the tweed does not feel that thick, however, it is lined so that's a plus. Overall, I think it is a nice buy.

3/4 Sleeve Sheath Dress, $128, available here in black (limited sizes)

Sheath dresses can be hit or miss when it comes to looking flattering on the body, but I have to say, this dress is a winner for me. Granted, it is very simple, but the color is fabulous and the fit of this dress was perfect. It hugged the body just so; the fabric wasn't clingy, it just skimmed appropriately. You can add a nice statement necklace, a scarf or a belt to take it up a notch. Or even better, pair it with a colorful shoe like this one. It has a zipper detailing on the sleeve and it has a hidden zipper in the back. Fit is tts and the length is just right. I whole-heartily give this baby a thumbs up and judging from the stock left online, it is going fast.

Multicolored Stripe Button 3/4 Sleeve Button Tunic, $78, available here

Are you all striped out?? Even if you are, this sweater has a little something different going on with the varying stripe sizes and extra colors. This sweater has several pluses going for it: the fabric is soft, it is well-fitting and it has the cutest button detail on the bottom of the sleeve. But, it is a thin knit and there is a possibility of fuzziness in its future. I'm not crazy about all of those horizontal lines on my body, but I'm sure it would look great on some of you skinny-minnies with cute tiny waists. :p  Good buy at 50% off!!

Felted Wool A-Line Mini Skirt $98, available here

I have a pair of pants that I like to call my "sweat" dress pants. They look like a regular pair of trousers but are made of jersey, so it almost feels like I'm wearing a pair of sweatpants. I absolutely love them and this skirt is pretty much the same thing, in a very work appropriate skirt form. The brownish-tan color is subtle enough to work with lots of other colors, I've already mentioned how comfortable it is and the wool is not itchy what-so-ever. Seriously, it could be stretch jersey. Fit is tts and I think it is a good buy.

Have you taken advantage of Ann Taylor's generous discount? Have you picked up any goodies at the mall lately?

OOTD- A Mix-Up

What do you think of my new haircut?

I'm slightly addicted to my new phone. Words with Friends has become a bit obsessive.

Have you ever created an outfit of random things? I suppose that's what any outfit is, but I'm sure you also have a few go-to looks. This outfit is definitely a hodge-podge of things that I'm not sure if it works well together, but layering random items will definitely come in handy when I get bored of my stuff by January. So be prepared for lots of future mixing and matching. If I start to look like a crazy lady, definitely tell me!!

What do you do to ward off thoughts of throwing out everything in your closet and buying all new things?

Outfit Details:

Polka dot blouse- thrifted (similar here w/o sleeves, similar in black with large dots here, similar in sheer version here)

Tan vest- Old Navy (available here)

Navy blazer- Priorities

Tweed skirt and leopard belt- J. Crew outlet (similar skirt here, similar in pencil version here)(similar belt here)

Pink "Brulee" necklace- J. Crew (available here)

Quilted cap-toe flats- Delman (similar here, bargain version here)

Burgundy handbag- Marc by Marc Jacobs "Natasha" (available here)

P.S. I did not cut my hair, just trying the fake-out bob.

OOTD- The New School Work Suit

I've been slacking on the wardrobe front for a bit and so with the start of a new week, I thought this would be the perfect opportunity to pump up the volume. I really think my new magenta pants fit the bill quite nicely. I have such a serious love for clothing and accessories that are pink, so even though I already have a pink skirt and some pink cotton capris, these just wanted to be purchased in time for fall. It is such an exciting season for colors, the perfect element to make an outfit attention-getting and festive. Even if the weather isn't!

How do you keep your outfits "fresh" and fun?

Outfit Details

Gray tweed blazer- Forever 21 (available here)

Pink button down, chain link necklace and belt- J. Crew (similar necklace here, same belt in different color here)

Magenta trousers- ASOS (available here in petites, similar here in wool)

Burgundy handbag- Marc by Marc Jacobs Nylon "Natasha" (available here)

Gray bow heels- Yesstyle.com (similar style here)

OOTD- Can I Borrow That, Diane?

Today's post is brought to you by Diane. Diane Kruger, that is. She of the fabulous style, Chanel connections and a boyfriend that I spent my teen years watching on tv. I was completely enamored with an outfit of hers that I saw quite some time ago:

(source)

It was absolutely perfect to me with the fun, colorful tweed, the bright sweater, and that adorable hat. I mean, seriously, it's fantastic! I bought my sweater over the summer and I was beyond thrilled to spot a tweed skirt at the outlet that was perfectly priced and practically a twin to hers. And then the weather got way too hot to wear anything sweater related, so my plan to imitate her got put to the wayside. With my new bag arriving this week and the hint of fall in the air, I joyfully decided to put this outfit on yesterday. I mean, can you blame me after waiting over 2 months? Now if you don't mind, I'm going to see what other outfits I can "borrow" from her. ;)

Was there ever a celebrity outfit that you absolutely loved and wanted to create? Tell me who and what outfit!!

Outfit Details:

"Tippi" sweater in bright dahlia- J. Crew (available here)

Tweed skirt- J. Crew outlet

Brown belt- thrifted

Cap-toe ballet flats- Delman (via Gilt)

Leopard satchel- Olivia + Joy (available here, different shape here and here, very similar here, with black trimming here)

Pearl necklace- Marc by Marc Jacobs accessory boutique

Crystal necklace- J. Crew (available here)

OOTD- You're Hot Then You're Cold

September hit and the weather 'round these parts turned on a dime. It was one of those drizzly, perfect to stay in bed kind of days, but it made me excited to feel the coolness in the air because it means I can break out some real blazers. A definite change from the hot and humid weekend when these pictures were taken. These pretty, purple shorts decided to come out for a last hurrah along with my sandals. However, I'm determined to keep this blazer going a little longer and have been brainstorming ways to make that happen. I think a sweater combo is in its future.

Do you find it easy or difficult to extend the wear of summer items into fall/winter? What's the secret?

Outfit Details:

White tank- H&M

Purple shorts and tie belt- J. Crew (shorts on sale here) Use code LOVEIT for 30% off sale items

Tweed blazer- Banana Republic

Sandals- Loeffler Randall Lila (limited sizes on sale here)

Timex leopard belt- Nordstrom (available here)

OOTD-You Look So Chanel!!!

That's what my co-worker told me. I'll take it, along with a Jumbo flap, a pair of ballet flats and a real tweed suit with the Chanel logo magically appearing in my closet. Until that happens, my tweed jacket will just have to do. I adore this little jacket with its lovely lady details (bracelet sleeves, collarless, interesting trim).  Fun fashion makes being a woman kind of awesome. Much better than a uniform of cargo shorts and a plaid to. It's enough to have me singing Shania Twain's old song.

If you clicked the link and got the song stuck in your head, you're very much welcome. Let's all prance around today with that running around in our minds. :)

Outfit Details:

Tweed blazer- Banana Republic (similar style here and here)

Lavender tee- J. Crew (similar here)

Gray skirt- ??? (secondhand)

Purple sandals- Loeffler Randall (available here in limited sizes, here in a different color)

Lavender studded handbag- Spotted Moth (available here)

OOTD- Topped with a Pretty Little Bow

I was feeling all kinds of blue and green, but purple decided to take the spotlight on this outfit. I fell in love with a certain pair of Miu Miu shoes almost two months ago (see them here). I couldn't get them out of my mind (don't you hate, but secretly love when that happens), but my friend said I would be crazy to spend that kind of money on shoes and my wallet told me that it was definitely not going to happen. What's a girl to do when she's impatient and can't find a suitable alternative? This one makes her own!! It took me forever to learn how to design them and find the right sewing machine. Okay, I'm kidding about that last part, my sewing skills are basic at best and I can barely do a straight line properly.

What do you guys think about my creation?

Outfit Details:

Teal tee- Rogan for Target

Blue grandpa cardigan- Madewell

Green tweed skirt- J. Crew outlet (similar style here and here)

Lilac studded handbag- Spotted Moth (available here)

Peep-toe bow heels- Milk & Honey (check it out here)

OOTD- I've Got the Vibrant Thing

Have you ever set an item of clothing aside for some kind of repair (broken zipper, hemming, sewing on a button)? How long did it sit in the pile? I absolutely love these tweed pants, but the hem came loose on one of the legs. I've had them hanging in my closet for at least a year before I finally got them fixed. How ridiculous is that? I'm sadden by the fact that I've been missing out on all of this tweedy goodness. At least they made a timely debut and all with the wide-leg trend back on the scene.

Are you a big fan of the wide-leg pants? I love the look of crisp white, long pants with a white blouse. It just conjures up an image of yachting or vacationing on some beach resort town. So fresh, so clean. However, I have my hesitations. Once when I was about 8 or 9, I went to an outdoor event with my mother in some really wide, flowy pants. A bee decided to take that as an invitation and flew up my pants leg and stung me. I was truly traumatized that day and now hate bees and prefer skinnies. Thanks Mr. Bee!!!

Outfit Details:

Blue cowl-neck sweater-No label (thrifted)

Brown tweed pants- Womyn (secondhand)

Green peacoat- Tulle

Necklace and digital watch- Forever 21

Brown criss-cross wedges- Urban Outfitters (limited sizes in black available here)

Notes from the Dressing Room- Back for More at J Crew

With all of the attention that Talbots has been receiving lately with their revamped style, I thought I would head there after work today and check out the store. Nope, still my mother's Talbots, at least in that store. However, I spent some quality time in J Crew checking out lots of new stuff. How did that happen? I only went in there to get a catalog!!!! Which proceeded to be sitting in my mailbox when I got home, of course.

Textured Jersey Tee, $29.50, color isn't online, but it is a mustard shade

Tweed Skirt, $120, ????, doesn't seem to be available online (similar Atomic tweed mini)

I'm a sucker for all things tweed, so this skirt was a must try on for me. Look at all the tweedy goodness and those wonderful colors, plus the tweed felt thick and substantial. Unfortunately, this is too short for comfort. I could probably get away with it on the weekend, but tweed seems better served for a work outfit to me.

I picked up the tee because I thought the chiffon trim was nice and this is a good, basic tee with just a little extra something. J. Crew does mustard yellow very well.

Textured Jersey Tee, $29.50, Crushed Berry

Donegal Tweed Atlee Skirt, $89.50, Forest

I'm not sure why this skirt is called forest, as it is much closer to a brown color and the website makes the trim on this tee look much darker (it is pretty much the same color as the rest of the tee). Note: This was a size smaller than I usually take, hence the pulling in the front.

I continued the tweed fest with this skirt that was just as short as the last and had an unfortunate shape. The bf said it looked like I had a triple stomach in the front. :O

Not exactly the look I go for in my skirts, so this isn't going to work out.

Tux Henley, $29.50, Black

Skirt not available online, $118, (similar to Crushed Jacquared Pencil Skirt)

I thought this long-sleeved tee had something different going for it with the silver metallic thread and I'm on a serious skirt kick and liked the texture and dressiness the sheen gave this pencil skirt.

The tee was nice and soft, but that front placket was pulling across my chest, so this one is for the less-endowed. And I think the panel comes down too far and resembles a fancy bib.

The skirt was in a size bigger than I normally take, which might be why this created issues. As you can tell, this is very long and gave me extra stomach with the side view. I was disappointed in the fact that this is a polyester blend and felt very thin (no lining). The one positive is that the textured print is really nice. This wasn't special enough to say I'll take it.

Marled Shawl-Collar Cardigan, $118, Marled Black

There is nothing better than a cozy sweater on a cool day and this looked like it would be great to throw on when fall comes around. The buttons and collar help to create a nice shape and the colors are fab, but I thought it was a tad bit too long and on the itchy side

Close up of both pieces, see all the wonderful texture going on!!!

Bayberry Flouncette Blouse, $98, Dark Plum
Wool Flannel Fallyn Skirt, $98, Dusty Rose

The colors of this blouse is a bit more vibrant than they show on the screen, but the lovely print was the only positive for me. There was no real shape to this and although it is made from silk, I could have sworn that it was polyester. I suppose some open buttons and a belt could salvage this and unlike the website pictures, the ruffles on this do not look like a hairy chest (thanks for the description K, lol) and lie much flatter.

The skirt was a disappointment too because this wool skirt is very thin and has quite the muted color. I've been on the lookout for a pink skirt and thought this would be a good substitute, however I need my wool to feel like it would keep me warm enough if a chill is in the air and this doesn't. The one plus though is that I wouldn't need a hem because this length is perfect.

Vintage Bateau Tee, $42.50, Navy

Stretch Twill Minnie Pant, on sale $49.99, Coal

I was pretty much forced to try on these pants by the sales associate who insisted because they are "the best pants ever". Umm, no ma'am, not these!! I'll admit they felt extremely comfortable and I like the stretchy fabric, but I look a bit oompa-loompa-ish and this kind of pant is borderline legging which means seamless undergarments are a must unless you want jiggly parts all exposed. I'm sure the Minnie works for tons of other gals out there since they are popular, perhaps a darker color would be better.

I only have one striped tee (J Crew) that has seen better day so I've been looking out for a replacement. This would fit the bill quite well; soft, simple and throw it on with anything.

The Perfect Shirt, $78 (similar Paper Poplin Perfect Shirt)

Ankle Stretch Toothpick Jean, $125, Smoke Wash

Please ignore the serious flaws going on with these pants (muffin top city)!!!! I'm sadly lacking a pair of gray jeans in my collection and thought I would give these Toothpick jeans a try. Despite needing to go up a size in the waistband, these fit well and I like the length, but that wash is too light and just aren't the world's most flattering jean.

This shirt would be almost perfect if I didn't have the dreaded gaping, but it is a thin, soft material in a pretty purple shade (much richer than it appears in the photos) and the seaming gave it a flattering shape. An added plus is that there isn't a pool of fabric at the bottom so no super bunching going on when it is being tucked into a skirt or pant. The Perfect Shirt is definitely going on my list.

So I managed to walk out of the store with the new catalog and a nice mustard tee. But you bet when more items roll out, I'll be back. Fingers crossed that a magically, perfect tweed skirt appears.

Have you been to J. Crew lately? What's on your Fall wishlist?