Classic Neutral Layers

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.

Wearing // Similar moto jacket here & here, Target hooded sweater, Wit & Wisdom jeans, Similar white flats, Sezane bag

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!

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Hit or Miss

Wearing //

Old Navy blouse

Old Navy flats

Loft jeans, similar

J.Crew Factory clutch, similar

Stella & Dot necklace and ring (you need both)

I used to shop fairly often at Old Navy, but the quality of their clothing has always been hit or miss for me so I stopped going there for awhile. Recently, I decided to give them another look and I was pleasantly surprised with my purchases. I'm trying to cut back on shopping and have even decided to put myself on a ban for the remainder of the year. That might seem drastic but I'd rather focus my energy on re-styling the pieces I own and have recently bought, rather than constantly clearing out my closet for new things. But back to Old Navy. I really love the feminine lace detail at the neckline of my blouse, and the color is stunning. Jewel tones are my favorite this time of year, and although it's nothing ground-breaking, I like to mix them in with neutrals. The flats are also a great find. I've been wanting a pair of camel flats for months and I'm glad I didn't have to spend much at all on these. My Stella & Dot jewels pull it all together! Love them.

I hope you ladies are doing well. I've been in a funk for the past few days so I'm trying my best to shake it off. Maybe once the election is over tonight I'll feel better! We can probably all agree on that.

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Fall for the Moment

Wearing //

Rails plaid shirt, similar for less

Express skirt, similar here & here

Hinge lace up heels

Nordstrom clutch, similar

Kendra Scott necklace

Beauty //

Pedicure in Essie Flowerista 

Lips in Glo Minerals Aubergine

John Frieda Air Dry Waves

It's about that time again. That magical moment each year where southern California finally starts feeling like Fall, and every woman I know gets so OMG excited to wear all the things - boots, plaid, sweaters, leggings, you name it. It usually lasts for a few days, and then just like that, the weather changes to Summer again and we go back to wearing tee shirts. Some refuse to accept this, and I completely understand the frustration. I used to be that person, until I finally realized that common sense says that people should dress for the weather, and not for the season. We live in a beautiful place so we may as well enjoy it and stop the complaining. Like one of my favorite quotes says, "nothing is under control" the least of which is the weather! Wherever you are, just embrace it. Unless you're so miserable that you plan on moving, then that's different!

But on this particular day, it did feel like Fall and I took advantage. Since it never gets that cold, the best way I know how to incorporate the season is by playing with jewel tones, moody lips and nails, and texture. I may be wearing a suede skirt and a thin plaid shirt, but it looks the part right? They say that life begins again in the Fall, and maybe it's true. I always associate new beginnings with the start of a new year, but it's comforting to think that we can start anew whenever we choose to. It's all a choice, and that we can control.

It's been awhile since I linked up but I'm doing so with Tara today :)

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Fall Series: Part 3 - 2016 Trends

For the last part of our "ten take on Fall" series, I want to talk about two trends in particular that I'm loving. Although I've mentioned several times that I gravitate towards more classic silhouettes, fashion should be fun! And that definitely includes experimenting with what's "in" each season. Just a few pieces and little tweaks can make your wardrobe feel more current, and you don't have to spend a fortune. 

I have this bell sleeved mini dress in two colors, but this one is distinctly Fall due to the beautiful plum shade. I think my mom owned a similar version in the 60's and 70's which cracks me up! The overall shape is a risk because it's well...shapeless. It's not for everyone, and I understand some of you may not like it. A selling point for me is that the sleeves add movement and float around as you walk and talk. I'll say it - they make me feel flirty. I love little dresses and own several, but this trend is unique to my closet and one that doesn't take me out of my comfort zone. 

Wearing //

Lush Whitney bell sleeve dress

Banana Republic bag

Kendra Scott necklace

Stella & Dot covet initial necklace

Stella & Dot cuff, love this one

Another trend I've had on my radar has been in the shoe department. I love flats and pumps, but lace-up shoes combine the best of both worlds - the comfort of a flat, yet the height of a pump. Most of these styles come with a chunky heel, which provides plenty of stability. I'm like a baby giraffe when I walk, so I can appreciate the support. I like to wear mine with dresses for an elongated look, but I've seen ladies pair them with skinny jeans. I'll have to try that next! 

Hinge lace-up heels

Other trends I'm trying:

1) Chokers - I just placed my samples for Stella & Dot and I included this beauty. I'm a child of the 90's so this is a fun way to pay homage to that period.

2) Off the shoulder - This one is still going strong! I have two off the shoulder tops left over from Summer and I plan on wearing them on warmer Fall days. Love this option!

An InLinkz Link-up

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Fall Series: Part 2 - Must Haves

For the second part of the Fall style series (see part one here), I am sharing what I consider "must-haves". You know, the pieces you'll be seeing frequently around here. Every Fall, my outfits tend to revolve around a simple formula: camisole + blazer + denim + pumps. Sometimes I'll vary by switching my shoes and bag but otherwise, I adhere to this style because it's classic, polished, and easy. It works for almost any occasion, casual or dressy. Of course if you're in an office, a pair of tailored pants or a pencil skirt can replace the denim. I swear this is what I go for every year! I don't care what is considered trendy at the moment, when I think of Fall, I immediately grab the classics.

Let's dissect this a little bit:

1. Cami - Every one has a camisole or tank in their wardrobe right? I love layering one underneath a little blazer, cardigan, or jacket. It's a great canvas for pretty necklaces, and you aren't sacrificing style for comfort. It's been chilly in the mornings, but then gets really warm during the afternoon so it's a nice in-between piece for this fickle time of year that a lot of us face.

2. Blazer - I recently bought this ruched sleeve blazer at H&M and I'm really happy with the fit and light color. A blazer always looks good, no matter your shape or size and no matter the occasion. It adds a lot of polish to an outfit.

3. Denim - This is a no-brainer. Dark skinny jeans are flattering and can be dressed up or down. I wear mine constantly year-round, but especially in Fall. 

4. Pumps - Nothing looks as polished as a great pair of pointy pumps. They elongate your legs and depending on the color or print, they can really take a simple outfit from boring to fun. I have a few pairs of these in different colors, and I love the way they make my legs look when I'm wearing jeans. Perfect for a night out! 

Wearing //

H&M blazer, check stores

Bella Luxx cami

Loft jeans

J.Crew pumps, similar for less!

BR bag

Kendra Scott necklace and bracelet

Stella & Dot nomad bracelets

Other must-haves for me this year:

Mixed metals - I used to be OCD about my jewelry choices, and I never imagined I would be into mixing my metals. But ever since becoming a Stella & Dot stylist, I actually have really been enjoying wearing both silver AND gold! It's chic and a little less expected than wearing all one metal. Plus with so many options, it's hard to choose so why not wear it all?

Suede shoulder bag - This bag is a total must-have for me. I bought it while on vacation over the Summer, but the pretty lilac color seems appropriate now as well. 

An InLinkz Link-up

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Fall Series: Part 1 - Maximize Your Wardrobe

I am so excited to bring you a new three part series with nine of my fellow bloggers and friends. Over the next three weeks, I will be showing you my take on Fall clothing, must-haves, and trends. Everyone of course will have their own thoughts on their respective blogs, so be sure to stop by to do some comparisons! Keep in mind that I live in southern California, and we really don't experience much of your traditional Fall weather. It does cool down some especially at night, but there isn't a need for coats, boots, or heavy jackets on most days. My portion of the series will reflect that, but I do think anyone can heed some of my suggestions. I hope you enjoy!




Today I'm showing you how to maximize a key piece that I think was a huge trend this Summer. It definitely works for Fall too, and I think anyone can benefit from having one in their wardrobe. If you don't own one yet, put it on your list!

The Utility Vest:

Summer:
Here is how I chose to style my olive utility vest in Summer. Although layering is completely impractical during the hot months, I was able to incorporate it on top of a girly white dress. I remained cool, but the extra addition revved up the fashion factor and created a more interesting look. It took a frilly frock in a different direction. I wore my vest a ton as a topper to my favorite little dresses, as well as with tees and denim shorts.


For Fall:
It's super easy to make this key piece work in cooler weather. I plan on wearing mine with dark denim and classic accessories to keep the look sleek and polished for Fall. You can mix it up with practically anything already hanging in your closet. You could even layer it over a long sleeve dress, booties, and tights. Take your pick! This staple is fool-proof, which is why I think the transition works from Summer into Fall.

An InLinkz Link-up

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The Party

Wearing //

Kenzie blazer, similar here

Zara cami, similar

Loft skirt, similar

Zara pumps, similar

Express bracelet, similar

Banana clutch, still want this

Francesca's necklace, love this

Beauty //

Lips NYX soft matte lip cream in Prague

This unfortunately will always live in my memory as the Christmas party that never happened. Well, it happened alright. It happened without me, and I'm happy to report that I got to see it live in action via my best friend's snapchat Saturday night. So I was there in spirit! All the while, sitting on my couch with my dog and husband, nursing a sore throat that has now morphed into a full fledged cold, possibly sinus infection. This season has been rough on my body. But anyway, back to the party. My best friend loves to entertain, and her attention to detail makes her a wonderful hostess. I was looking forward to a fun celebration. I even got my hair done that afternoon, but as soon as I got home from taking these photos, I plopped onto my bed and just couldn't muster up the energy to make it back out. What a downer. I've had great (non-static) curls ever since, and they have been wasted on lying around in sweats, a box of kleenex at my side. We always seem to come down with something at the worst times, don't we? Although I guess there's never a good time to get sick. I'm hoping that I can redeem myself this weekend, when I actually do go to another party. I can't waste another opportunity to get dolled up.

How was your weekend? Are you guys staying healthy this season?

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The Blues

~ I forgot my sunglasses ~

Wearing //

Loft softened chambray shirt, similar here and here on sale

Express jean leggings

Zara kitten heels, similar

Michael Kors bag

Stella & Dot necklace and bracelet

(Don't forget to use Noelle Engel as your hostess ;)

Beauty //

Make up for ever HD Ultra foundation

MAC twig lipstick

This time of year is always bittersweet for me. I used to love Christmas because it was really the only chance I had to see my extended family. My mother would go all out, working like a mad woman to ensure the perfect decorations, lights, and presents. But after my parents got divorced when I was eighteen, family stopped coming around. We isolated ourselves from people, and I spent most holidays going to friends' houses who were gracious enough to let me join and be a part of their families. Now that I have my in-laws, it's wonderful to be included in their traditions. I'm extremely grateful, but there's still this little ache in my heart because I haven't spent a single Christmas with my own family since I was a teenager. With the work that I do with foster children, I see how this otherwise happy time affects them as well. They long to feel normal. They don't care about gifts like a lot of well-adjusted kids do. All they want is to be reunited with their parents, and unfortunately, that's not a possibility for obvious, heartbreaking reasons.

I don't mean to write such a sad post, especially when it's attached to an outfit I wore but I know I'm not alone in this. Plenty of people experience the holiday blues, more than we probably imagine. In the hustle and bustle of putting together fun looks to wear to parties, gift guides filled with pretty things to buy, and traditions to carry out, I just hope we can be aware that not everyone thinks this is the most wonderful time of the year. For some, it really isn't. I hope for most of you reading this though, you are having a great end to 2015. I am trying my best :)

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Mary Tyler Moore

Wearing //

INC coat from Macy's

Express cami and jeans

Old Navy flats, old

Stella & Dot Bianca lariat necklace

Chanel bag, similar

Beauty //

MAC lipstick in Twig

Essie nails in Limited Addiction

Nate thinks I looked like Mary Tyler Moore in this get-up. And yes, he also called it a get-up. I used to watch Mary Tyler Moore when I was a kid with my parents. I loved her cute little office pencil skirts, bob haircut, and that adorable hat she threw up in the air during the iconic opening. So I'll take the reference as a compliment, however odd it may seem.

I love my new coat! I got it on sale at Macy's last week and used the remainder of a gift card on it. These open draped coats are popping up in my feed on Instagram, and I'm drawn to the relaxed look of them. They are perfect for our weather, where a lightweight coat or jacket is really all we need to get through Fall and Winter. It's an easy topper to throw over as an extra layer.

How was your Thanksgiving?

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Closet Staple: Leggings

Wearing //

Loft cardigan

Express cami

Target leggings

Sole Society booties, similar here and here

Chanel bag, look for less

Kendra Scott druzy necklace

Nordstrom long necklace (old) but similar

Beauty //

Nails in Essie Smokin' Hot

Benefit Posie Balm

Leggings are truly one of fashion's greatest pleasures, and also one of its best kept secrets. When I used to think of leggings, I pictured a frumpy mess (mostly because in college, I wore them to frump around the house in when I was too lazy to get dressed. In fact, I still do on my days off). But leggings don't have to be so casual that you still can't look pulled together and polished! Quite the contrary. There's nothing more casual chic than tucking them into a great pair of booties like I've done here, or even dressing them up for night by adding beautiful accessories and simple pumps. I always make sure to balance out the look by wearing a longer sweater, jacket, or cardigan on top. These leggings are a bit sheer, so I highly recommend covering at least your bum if you have a similar pair. Next on my shopping list are faux leather leggings that I can wear to holiday parties and out to dinner with friends. Tis the season to go glam and get dolled up, but even better when you can do so in comfort too. Now pass the chocolate chip cookies, please. 

I currently have three pairs. How many leggings do you own? What's your favorite way to wear them?

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Sweater Weather

Wearing //

Old Navy sweater

Express jeans

Topshop flats

BCBG bag (ages old) but similar

Beauty //

Essie nails Cozy in Cashmere

You know you've been blogging for a long time when you probably most likely already have a post titled the same thing. Whenever I wear a sweater, that catchy song by "The Neighborhood" comes to mind. These pictures are pretty terrible, even by my own standards. Sunday was cold and unfortunately very windy so my hair was quite the mess. I was happy that I could dress for it, but in looking at the forty photos that I took that afternoon, only these pathetic three made the cut. You guys get the gist though, right? I love a good chunky knit paired with jeans and flats. Not only is it practical, but there's something effortlessly chic about it too. I've been pinning similar looks like crazy, and I just know that some variation will become my Fall uniform this year. 

By the way, you know that random post I promised last week? Well I'm doing it this week instead. I sent my friend a text message telling her that I just didn't feel like blogging for a few days. There was no reason, I just really have been doing this for awhile and sometimes you need a break. 

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Cranberry Suede

Wearing //

Express skirt and camisole

Zara cape blazer, similar here and here

Zara pumps, similar

J.Crew Factory clutch, similar

Express necklace 

(I have yet to take it off)

Beauty //

Glo Minerals lipstick in Aubergine

Glo Minerals Blush in Bellini

Last week was such a whirlwind of work and play that both left me feeling completely drained. By Saturday night, I was going on 8 hours of sleep in just 48 hours and it's a tiny miracle that I even dressed up for Halloween and went to my friend's party. Granted, my creepy dead-girl makeup matched how I felt so I played the role pretty well! I was going more for a dia de los muertos vibe, but ended up looking more like the corpse bride. I frightened myself.

Before scaring people on Halloween night, I dressed up in this beautiful new skirt. It's my latest Express find, along with the necklace I linked. The laser-cut detail along with the color and suede fabric is perfectly appropriate for Fall and Winter. I love mixing textures, and I can see it pairing nicely with black tights and a coat. The color is so rich in person, and I highly recommend it if you're looking for something to wear to a holiday party. Get ready guys! It's becoming that time of the year. Already.

How's your week so far? I'll be back on Thursday with a fun post on random things.

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Throwback Thursday {Fall Outfits}

Okay, breaking news: I'm growing my hair out again. I know, it's quite the revelation. Looking back on the last two years of my Fall wardrobe not only has provided me with style inspiration, but it has also made me realize that although I've really enjoyed my sassy shorter 'do, my long lost locks have me feeling a bit nostalgic. It's true what they say you know...the grass is always greener on the other side. I can guarantee that the minute I do grow it out, I'll get fed up with styling it and will once again feel the urge to bring out the scissors. But I'm going to give it a go anyway. It's just hair after all. I'm heading to the salon to get it dyed a couple of shades darker this morning!

I wanted to put together this throwback of my Fall clothing choices for two reasons. One, I really need some style inspiration lately. And two, I also have some new readers and Instagram followers, and I think this little recap sums up my style perfectly. I'm inspired by what I see on other blogs, but most of those ladies live in colder parts of the country and it's just not practical for me. It's difficult to dress for this unseasonably warm weather in California. I keep having to look at my calendar to remind myself that August is gone, and Halloween is in two days! I'm struggling to put together outfits, and since I still own most of these pieces, I may as well work with my existing wardrobe instead of looking to others. I think doing so is one of the most positive aspects of style blogging. It's a digital diary :)

Have a happy (and safe) Halloween this weekend!

Link up: Tara

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