Sweater Weather

Hello, October. I unintentionally took a whole season off from blogging. Did you miss me? Who am I kidding, of course not. Regardless, I've been trying to incorporate some writing back into my life. I find it rather cathartic, so humor me.

Since I've been MIA all summer, let's talk fall. Have you indulged in pumpkin spice everything yet? Would you believe me if I told I haven't been to Starbucks yet for one of their fancy schmancy fall drinks (though let's be real, I only want to go for the cup design)? Though I have made several cups of pumpkin spice tea leftover from last season. Does tea expire? Better Google that quick.

Fall always brings a sense of newness and change, doesn't it? The leaves change, and soon everyone's hair color and wardrobes do too. I'm on the hunt for some fall closet additions, like a pair of booties and a couple sweaters. I did a quick closet cleanse a few weeks ago, because #minimal, and realized my sweater game is pretty weak. Like Forever 21 and holes and snags weak. As a working professional (calling myself an adult doesn't seem fair because I still eat frozen waffles and pretend like I understand taxes), I deserve a nice sweater or five, right? Was that a resounding yes? I'll send you guys my credit card bill, thanks.

Sweaters are the perfect transition piece. They come in various weights and fabrics, and layer well. Perfect for #basicbitches like myself. Cardigans over tanks for warmer days, lightweight knits over dresses and tights for chillier ones, and the classic chunky ones play nice with jeans and falling temperatures. Sweaters are like the peanut butter of the closet. They never disappoint.

I've rounded up some sweater inspiration to reference when shopping. I've been trying (and surprisingly succeeding for the most part) to only purchase things I truly love and that truly make me feel good (and look good too, because humans are vain and I'm no different). Choosing quality over quantity is hard (especially when it shows up on the price tag), but having fewer items that I know I love makes getting dressed so much more enjoyable.

And I'm all for adding more joy to my life.
(I've been listening to a lot of podcasts lately.)

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Puffer Vest Inspiration

I really want to purchase a puffer vest this fall, but I’m worried I’ll silently judge myself every single time I put it on. I have this weird thing about puffer vests...

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Probable internal monologue // Why aren't the sleeves? My arms are freezing, but my pectoral area is nice and cozy. What about a coat? Are you supposed to wear a coat over a puffy vest? I’m so confused. And self-conscious. But seriously my arms are so freakin’ cold…

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In the meantime, here’s some puffer vest inspiration I’m currently envying. I can’t commit yet, but layer on, vest lovers. Layer on.

Color pop + cool pattern.

Collared shirt + bright hoodie. I could do that.

Stripes + solids. I like.

Maybe I’ll start with a non-puffy version and see how that goes...

Fall Faves

So September happened. The best part about October? It's officially acceptable to start rocking some of my fall fashion faves – chunky sweaters, cozy socks, and cool boots. And I can't talk fall without mentioning my favorite fall candle – Sweater Weather, which I will be buying in bulk this season.  

Sweater // Booties // Weekender Bag // Socks // Candle // Mug 

Know Your Shit

Last week I was wearing a necklace I've worn many times before. It's a long pendant of a decorated hand on a gold chain ( similar to the one above ). I bought it at a boutique in Chicago because it reminded me of the henna tattoo I got when I was in India.

Turns out it's a religious motif with a much greater meaning.

A woman at work told me the symbol is known as a hamsa – an amulet thought to protect against the evil eye. The hand-shaped symbol is popular in Jewish and Islamic cultures. In religion, the symbol is thought to protect against evil forces and bring luck, goodness, and good health.

This, of course, was all news to me. I love this necklace even more now that I am aware of its origins. A good reminder to know your shit before you wear it around your neck.

Golden Layers

Stack 'em, layer 'em. Mix and match 'em. Can't go wrong with golden layers. 

Vacation Essentials

In just a few short weeks I’ll be making my way to Mexico for Labor Day weekend to celebrate the marriage of a family friend. The last time I was south of the border was almost 10 years ago on a family vacation to Puerto Vallarta. This time it’ll be a girls trip with my mother and we’ll be heading to Riviera Maya, which is about 20 miles south of Cancun. It’s on the complete opposite side of the country, and I’m getting anxious for the getaway.

The best part about beach vacations – besides the ocean, sun, and umbrella drinks ( and Mexican beer! ) – is that packing is usually a cinch. Toss in some bathing suits, coverups, and few easy dresses; add a pair of strappy sandals; top with sunnies and a straw hat. Boom. Done and done. See you soon, Mexico.

HAT // SUNNIES // TANK // SHORTS // NECKLACE // SHOES // TOTE // BOOK

Inspiration // Execution

Blouse // Skinnies // Bag // Sunnies // Necklace

Work It // Gym Essentials

We all know how hard it is to make time for the gym. Squeezing in a workout isn't the hard part – it's being motivated, having energy, and allowing enough time to freshen up post-sweat session. 

To make it easier, I've narrowed down my workout essentials to the bare minimum. Keeping it simple helps ensure I can't make too many excuses about being unprepared. Here's my essentials:

Layers of stretchy, dry-fit clothing that can be layered without bulk ( I always start off in sleeves – especially on cold mornings ). I am obsessed with the GapFit tanks, capris + leggings by C9 for Target, and Nike's half-zips.

Gear that doesn't require extra work. For instance, I can't stand hitting the gym without a Camelback water bottle. I'm always fumbling with the screw-tops and pop-up lids resulting in not being able to hydrate ( especially on machine like the treadmill ) or a face full of water. Good hair ties are also crucial – hair in my face ( or down! ) does not bode well for me. Lastly, a ( semi-charged ) iPhone and 8tracks are all I need to get my gym flow going.

A product to cleanse with post-sweat. My personal favorite are the Yes to Tomatoes wipes because they banish breakouts without irritation. 

( Of course, appropriate undergarments – especially socks – are also essential. Though I'm sure that's fairly obvious. Nothing worse than feet full of blisters! )  

KMid's Royal Gams

Being a duchess has its perks, though some compromises must be made when transitioning into royalty. Poor Kate Middleton is supposedly making one compromise involving her hem lines.

We can all agree KMid has a lot going for her. A loving hubby, access to the royal jewels, and – oh, yeah –  she's a princess. The world fell in love with Kate because she was relatable. The girl also had style. And on top of that? A rockin' bod. I mean look at those gams!

Too bad her royal highness Queen Elizabeth is instigating a royal kibosh on KMid's leggy looks. Sounds like from here on out our favorite princess from across the pond will be sporting longer hem lines. I'm pretty confident Kate could rock a paper bag, though, so no need to worry.

Style Notes 03 | Maroon

Maroon is my favorite color to wear. ( After white, cream, gray or black, that is. ) 

Which is sort of ironic because my high school colors were maroon and gold and I went through a major phase where I despised anything that resembled red wine. But then I started drinking wine and decided that anything that resembled wine was A-okay in my book. Funny how things come full circle.

I especially love wearing maroon ( or burgundy, whatever floats your boat ) in the fall. It's such a gorgeous fall color. It kind of fits right in with the changing colors in nature. I mean, look outside your window right now and tell me there isn't something green that's beginning to morph into this gorgeous deep red color. ( Avocados will work too, if you're not near any trees. ) 

Because this color is so versatile, it's sort of like a "basic" in my eyes. It's deep enough to replace black, but still looks chic, professional, and trendy-but-not-too-trendy. Pretty much if you wear this color right, people will think you're a natural fashionista.

This color pairs perfectly with shades of ivory, white, and camel. Black and gray work, too. For an unexpected twist, I love pairing this shade with a dusty teal. It also looks nice with a mustard color, but I tend to avoid this as people may mistake you for an Iowa State fan. And no one wants that.

Lastly, no outfit with a maroon piece is complete without gold jewelry. Trust me.

Black + White Geomatry

It's hard to go wrong with black and white. Add some accessories with a geometric feel ( I adore these ASOS striped sandals and the packaging on these Topshop beauty products is to die for ) for an updated take on the basics.

Style Notes // 02

All of this job hunting business has motivated me to amp up my work wear for when I do land a gig. I'm hoping to take a note from these stylish ladies and channel some of their looks.

01. Pairing a neutral blouse + cardigan with a punchy pink pencil skirt.

02. Dressing up a plain white tee with a tweed jacket.

03. Add a statement necklace to any equipment blouse ( which I have plenty of ).

04. Head to toe nude + black is always chic.

05. A chambray shirt pairs great with fall shades like burgundy and camel. 

Summer Essentials

Summer is great for the obvious reasons: sun, warm weather, and less stress. But it's also the perfect time for impromptu plans. Having a simple go-to look can help you get out the door quickly without wasting any precious moments under the sun.

My summertime essentials include a lightweight v-neck and a pair of denim cutoffs paired with some strappy leather sandals. I'll throw on a watch and a simple gold pendant, grab my favorite cross-body bag of the moment, and toss my sunnies in my hair for an easy, breezy look that'll translate wherever the day takes me.

Style Notes // 01

It's safe to say I'm fairly obsessed with pinterest. Sometimes I go through lulls where it seems as though I've seen the same pins over and over again, but after a few days I always manage to go on a pinning spree. Lately, I've been seeking some outfit inspiration, so I figured I'd share a few styling tips I've been pinning.  

01. You can never go wrong with a white tee and jeans. Especially when the t-shirt is super soft, hangs in that slouchy chic way and is paired with dainty gold necklaces

02. Sheer tops and tights are always cool, but these sheer flats are the perfect combination of sophistication and edge.

03. Amp up any outfit with a statement ring ( or five ).

04. Pair an over-sized top with a fitted skirt for a sexy, cool vibe.

05. Dress up your basic tee with a bright, bold choker and a white blazer to take your look from so-so to so fab.

Paris

In a few short weeks, I'll be jet-setting to Paris. To say I'm excited is an understatement. I typically get a lot of flack for my neutral-based wardrobe, but somehow I feel like I'll fit in in France.

Black is the new black in Paris, and I can totally roll with that. Throw in some simple gold accessories, a classic bag and some stripes and I'll feel right at home.