My last post included a mix of neutral tones for Fall, and I clearly can't stop with this fool-proof combination because I'm wearing a very similar look here! There's just something so chic and effortless about pairing creamy shades with camel, tan, and brown. It's perfect for this time of year. It's also a great alternative to black when you want to keep things light. My family doesn't dress up for Thanksgiving, but if we all did, this is definitely what I'd wear.
I bought these boots during the Nordstrom anniversary sale and I was so excited to finally pull them out last weekend. The heel height is fairly low so while they look elevated in style, I can attest to them being really comfortable and easy to walk in. I love how they elongate my legs, and I plan on wearing them a lot with other dresses in my closet. If you're searching for a great ankle boot, I highly recommend these! They also come in other gorgeous colors.
Well hello! I haven't posted since late June and now it's officially Fall, almost October. Where does the time go? I'll admit that I think about blogging more than I probably should these days. I do miss it, and I especially miss talking and interacting with all of you. Luckily I'm able to see many of you over on Instagram, and I still post outfit photos over there that I forget (or am a bit too lazy) to post here. I really want to show up more regularly here in the coming months though. We have so much catching up to do!
I'll start today with this dress I recently bought from Abercrombie. Even though the temperatures are still pretty high in SoCal, Of course I'm shopping with Fall in mind. When I saw this on Abercrombie's new arrivals section, I was really drawn to the ribbed knit fabric and the keyhole detail in the bust. I still love the cutout trend, but I think this feels more appropriate for cooler weather.
The fabric is even better in person! It's incredibly soft with a generous amount of stretch. It hugs my curves while still being a bit loose where I want it to be around my hips and thighs. I sized up for that reason and I'm happy I did. Abercrombie comes in regular, tall, and petite so finding your size is really easy. The midi length is perfect for showing off some pretty heels, and I think some tall boots or booties will be great in the Winter. Add a jacket like I did, and you have a beautiful transitional outfit that can be worn for so many different events or occasions. Honestly, this dress is comfortable enough to even sleep in! But, I'll leave that up to you.
I have to admit, this is probably one of my favorite transitonal Fall outfits I've ever worn. It's hard to explain why really, but I just feel so put together and chic without sacrificing comfort. I did also receive some compliments and let's face it, that's always a nice feeling! Living in sunny southern California, Fall weather is much warmer than say, New York. It's more of a wish than an actual season here, so it takes a little creativity to incorporate trends in a way that works for me.
(Don't mind that little string on my shorts in these pics. I had no idea it was there the whole time! Hey, it's life. No fancy photographer here.)
For the past few seasons, longer length or duster cardigans have been all the rage and while I love those and own a few, I'm actually really happy that shorter cropped cardigans are trendy right now. Cropped anything can be tricky to pull off, especially if you're a more modest dresser like me. But pair one with high waisted bottoms and any hesitation disappears! The best of both worlds. I love the juxtaposition, and ultimately I find the combination flattering. The cardigan can be worn open over a tank or bodysuit, but I prefer wearing it buttoned as a shirt itself. I wore these linen blend shorts a lot over the Summer, and because they are black, what better way to transition them into Fall than with a cozy, soft-as-can-be cardigan? This whole look is fun for a night out, or switch out the heels for some ankle boots or flats for a casual day.
What's the weather like where you live? I hope you all have a fantastic Halloween weekend!
I've shopped the Nordstrom anniversary sale every single year since college, but things have definitely changed since then! I didn't think I'd partake at all this go-around, but I'll admit that after previewing the sale, a few things did catch my interest. I always debate posting about it too, because I know all the sale talk can get tired during normal times. Throw in all of the craziness and uncertainty of this year, and it seems even more over the top to spend time talking about a sale. But after some discussion with a couple of my girlfriends, I realized that most of us could use a fun shopping trip! One of my friends isn't even a shopper but she's looking forward to this sale after a months' long spending freeze. I can't personally get to a local Nordstrom (the one I loved has sadly closed) but I can shop vicariously through others and I do plan to buy a couple things online.
My biggest tips:
Stick to a budget! I know it's hard when so many people are sharing their giant hauls on Instagram, but it's not worth it to spend more than you can afford.
Go for more luxury items that aren't typically part of a sale. I used to buy a few essentials as part of my Fall wardrobe, and I'm still tempted to, but I don't go as crazy stocking up because so many retailers do similar items at already discounted prices. Honestly, the quality of some Nordstrom house brands are comparable to retailers like Target - which is fine! But they aren't worth obsessing over. If you have your eye on a leather jacket or a cashmere sweater, I'd go for that as opposed to yet another basic cardigan or pair of jeans that you can buy anytime, anywhere.
I also recommend looking at the beauty exclusives because that's where you'll find the best deals.
I own and love all of these beauty products! The only exception is the T3 hair brush set, which I'm planning on buying because I need a new paddle brush and wet brush anyway. If you treat yourself to one thing, I think a hair tool is absolutely worth it.
If you have any specific questions on any of these, let me know! I use them all on a daily/weekly basis.
As for clothing, there are a lot of "blogger" items that get talked about often, but I also think they're worth the hype. Last year I bought a Barefoot Dreams cardigan and I wore it practically every day in Winter around the house. It was perfect for the height of quarantine, and since I have no Godly idea when California is going to open up again, I may do the same again this Winter. I got mine in my true size.
The Spanx leggings are also hyped up, but agree that they are great. I have had mine for two years and they fit even better now after losing some weight. I would buy them again but in petite. Size up one in them.
My favorite anniversary sale purchase ever is this gorgeous suede moto jacket. You guys have seen it so many times! It's my standard "going out" look in the Winter, especially around the holidays. Obviously it doesn't get very cold here, so I treat this jacket the way most of you treat a coat. They have this jacket every year in the sale in different colors. I really like the taupe version for this year. Go up one size in it.
I'll share what I end up buying soon, but I hope those of you shopping enjoy yourselves. I know you deserve it.
It has been raining off and on for the past week, and I'm really glad I managed to get a few photos in between the wet weather. But before I go into my outfit, did you have a great Thanksgiving and did you shop any of the crazy sales? We got a new large rug for our living room, as well as a television stand that I'm hoping we love. Shopping for furniture online can be difficult, so fingers crossed that it adds a little more appeal to our downstairs. Aside from those purchases, I also got a few gifts for family and I'm quite proud of myself for being more prepared this year! I'm usually one to procrastinate!
I didn't do much shopping for myself, although there are some things on my wishlist that were hard to pass up...but I did. I'm really trying my best to maximize my current Fall and Winter wardrobe and I'm discovering that classic neutral layers are the way to go.
I wore this exact outfit (minus the flats and bag) while in New York and I decided to recreate it for a chilly day in Temecula. Will this look, or maybe a slight variation of it, ever go out of style? I don't think so! A crisp pair of jeans, a striped cozy knit, and a camel colored jacket will always be in. Some may argue that the white shoes can look dated, but I'd point out that a streamlined ballet flat in any color or print looks simple and chic. I got so much inspiration when I was walking around the city, and I've made notes on everything I want to try and emulate here. Obviously I can't go all out because our climates are vastly different, but I can put a little twist on certain outfits to make them Cali-appropriate. The one thing I really noticed was the rich but neutral color palette so many women were wearing. I love color, but this Fall I'm gravitating towards neutrals. Especially camel! It's such a warm shade that instantly puts me into a cozy mood and it looks great paired with navy and black. If you don't have anything camel colored in your wardrobe, I recommend adding some this season.
So back to my original question, How was your Thanksgiving? I ate more pie than I should have!
Thanksgiving is just a few short days away and before I stuff myself full of turkey and mashed potatoes (my absolute favorite) I wanted to share a post in case you're still trying to figure out what to wear. I always spend Thanksgiving at my in-laws house and for the past couple of years, we celebrate on Sunday. I'm not sure what Nate and I will be doing on the actual holiday, but whatever we do, just trust that it will involve plenty of delicious food! That inevitably means that my outfit will be put together yes, but comfort is the goal.
Whether your Thanksgiving gathering is casual like mine, or whether you and your family have a dressier occasion, I compiled 5 different looks that are sure to get you holiday ready.
1. Denim and long cardigan: I know we still have a month left of Fall, but for me, Fall culminates on Thanksgiving. A gorgeous burnt orange duster cardigan is sure to make a statement at the dinner table! This one is incredibly soft, roomy, and the perfect topper to your favorite lived-in jeans. Put on some printed mules that feel as comfortable as house slippers and you're set for lounging on the couch after the holiday feast.
2. Cozy wrap: This denim outfit is a bit more dressed up, but it's still very comfortable. Just make sure your jeans have some stretch! This wrap is my favorite purchase from Fall, and it's currently on sale. I wear it weekly! Wear it belted upon arriving to your destination, and maybe untie it once the eating begins! This look is so universal, especially if you and your family decide to dine out. It's polished without feeling fussy and really, isn't that the point?
3. Fit and flare dress with a loose knit cardigan: If you're in the mood to wear a dress, I suggest a fit and flare style. It hugs your curves on top and then gently flows away from your lower half which I always find flattering. Cozy up with a chunky knit cardigan and you have a very pretty outfit that also looks effortless.
4. Moto jacket and LBD: a little black dress will always be in style, and if you're attending or hosting a more dressed up Thanksgiving, this look will fit right in. I know a bodycon dress is usually a no-no when lots of food will be consumed, but this dress has so much stretch and is so forgiving that it isn't an issue! The cranberry jacket ties it all together for a fun, sophisticated look that can also take you from day to night.
5. Leggings and tunic: Let's cut to the chase - we all really want to be in sweatpants or athleisure on a day like Thanksgiving, right? However, I personally don't feel comfortable showing up to someone's home looking like I rolled out of bed. The next best thing is obviously a great pair of leggings! These faux leather leggings are my go-to. They even come in petite now too, so I'm thinking of getting a pair because these are a bit too long as you can see. I have to hike them up pretty high! Still, I love them and think they look great with a tunic or long cardigan. In fact, I'm probably going to wear these with my orange duster cardigan I shared in the first look.
I really hope these suggestions are helpful! I'm sure most of these items can already be found in your closet as they're fairly common staples.
If you need more ideas, I've teamed up with my girlfriends from On The Daily Express and Pink Sole. They are also sharing some last minute Thanksgiving outfits, so please stop by their blogs next for even more inspiration.
I'll be back on Wednesday for my monthly edit. See you then!
Long duster cardigans have been trendy for a few seasons, but I wasn't really certain if the length would work on my petite frame (and when I say petite, I mean that only in height as I'm 5'2). I've admired the look on other, mostly taller women, which made me curious. When I saw this beautiful burnt orange duster at Target, I decided to give it a try. The color sold me but the question remained; Can long layers work for petites?
The short answer is yes! Petites absolutely can participate in the trend and actually look really great. I think there are just a few key styling tips to keep in mind,
1. The fabric and construction of the garment really matters. For example, knits have a flattering drape to them and will flow beautifully as you walk and move. They skim the body nicely without adding extra bulk. A more structured long coat in a heavier fabric is trickier to pull off which is why I prefer those to be shorter in length.
2. Make sure that whatever you wear underneath the duster is more slim fitting. like a crisp pair of skinny jeans or a dress that still shows off some of your curves. This way you won't feel like you're swimming in it.
3. Choose your shoes wisely. I almost wore this outfit with my favorite heeled sandals, but I opted for flat mules instead and I actually like the look. Just make sure that your shoes are fairly sleek.
Long duster cardigans aren't everyone's cup of tea, but I've surprised myself with just how often I've been reaching for one in these weird transitional weather days. It's fun playing with proportions and seeing what works versus what doesn't. I always thought that long layers were meant for tall women, but I'm finding that short ladies like myself can have fun with length too!
Would you wear this duster? I'll show you one more way to wear it on Wednesday so I hope you'll stop by!
As October moves along, I'm (finally) beginning to embrace Fall dressing. I've come to the strange conclusion that my reluctance towards cooler weather really comes down to the fact that I just feel more attractive in the Summer. I hate admitting that because it sounds so vain but if I'm being honest, breezy colorful dresses, air-dried hair, and sun kissed skin makes me feel happiest and just more...well, me.
That doesn't mean that I can't enjoy Fall fashion though because there's definitely a lot to love. During a cool spell last week, I pulled out some closet essentials I'd been saving, along with a brand new t-shirt I ordered during the most recent Shopbop sale.
This belted camel wrap is unfortunately sold out. It's such a shame because it's the perfect transitional piece to throw on over basic tanks and t-shirts. I wore it open and closed, and I really can't decide which way I prefer. Both options are great! I live in floral kimonos during the Summer, and this knit wrap is similar while still providing a layer of warmth. Plus camel is so chic, isn't it? Pair any pair of jeans with a camel sweater or coat and you instantly look polished.
Speaking of jeans, I'm realizing that this is my first post wearing pants since June 17th! I've worn them a few times off the blog, but that just falls in line with my whole Summer of dresses thing. These crisp, dark wash skinny jeans are a new favorite even though I bought them months ago. They are the curvy skinny jeans from Loft's petite line, and they are true to size. They lay flat against my tummy, are roomy in the hips and thighs, and have the right amount of stretch. I highly recommend them if you're looking for an affordable, comfortable pair of classic skinnies.
Now, I can't really justify the leopard print tee even though I love the fit, fabric, and design. Rails is one of my favorite brands for luxuriously soft shirts, but the prices are honestly kind of outrageous and I'm actually embarrassed I paid as much as I did on this t-shirt. (Macklemore's thrift shop song comes to mind). However, it was on sale and I've already worn it a couple times. Quality over quantity wins again.
Some variation of this outfit is bound to become my Fall uniform. What will be yours?
It's finally beginning to feel ever so slightly like Fall around here, although it's supposed to be over 80 today! We go back and forth a lot, but even if the weather isn't cooperative, I'm slowly putting away my Summer accessories and shoes in favor of more seasonally appropriate options just to get myself in the mood. My friend pointed out that just because California doesn't experience four seasons doesn't mean you can't create your own version of them. All the more reason to actually. And she's totally right.
I like a very casual bohemian style in Summer, but come Fall, I'm all about classic pieces. Think dark denim, chic flats, long cardigans, cable knit sweaters, and plenty of texture. I have most of these basics in my wardrobe already, but there are a few things I'd like to buy not only for Fall at home but also before I head to New York City in just a couple weeks. It's fast approaching and I really need to get on top of it! usually I have more time to prepare for a trip since Nate and I aren't exactly world travelers, but I can't express enough how excited I am to just go without overthinking it.
These are the things on my current wish list. I'm unsure if they'll all work for me, but I'm going shopping next week to try some on in person. I'll report back after my trip so I can explain in detail everything I packed and wore.
Thankfully, my shopping list is fairly small because as I said before, I already own some great essentials. I do worry about getting cold in New York so I plan on bringing some layering pieces like a scarf and some tights. I know layering is the key! Our trip is less then a week long so rotating between 7 or 8 pieces total will be easy. It's all about comfort, practicality, and obviously feeling as put-together as I can because it's NYC after all.
The items (or similar) below are all coming with me, and they're all perfect basics that I think you will love for Fall and beyond. I've worn them all in various posts, especially the Sezane bag that I still can't get enough of!
Nate and I celebrated our 6 year wedding anniversary on September 21st, and we kept it pretty low-key. I wasn't sure what the plans were because it wasn't my year to plan...we rotate! One year I'm in charge of what we do to celebrate, the next year Nate does. It was still pretty warm out so I went with my favorite Ann Taylor dress (last seen here) and added a floral kimono to bring in an extra layer since nights are getting much cooler now. I can't stress enough how much I love re-wearing things but switching up the styling to make it feel more current. I typically wear kimonos with a tank or t-shirt and jeans, but they also look great over dresses.
Aside from cardigans, I think kimonos are great transition pieces for Fall. Most people associate them with Summer, but if you live in a warmer climate they are perfect for those in-between days.
So after dinner, Nate actually surprised me with a gift - not something we do - with two plane tickets to visit New York City next month! If you've followed me from the beginning, then you know we went to NYC in 2010 after my college graduation. It was a very short trip though, we were only there for 3 days total, so going back now for almost an entire week is such a treat and one that nearly brought me to tears.
We have friends across the bridge in New Jersey that we will be staying with, and I'm so excited to see them too! I honestly have so much outfit planning to do right?! But more on that later. and please feel free to give me any tips or recommendations in the meantime!
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