Tuesday, March 31, 2015

the imitation game

I clicked through the Alice + Olivia spring collection last week after receiving Shopbop's marketing email for it and instantly fell in love with this red and ivory floral lace look. The skirt has a really delicate flare and super subtle high-low hem that are so pretty. Paired with the cleanly cut crop top, it's the best mix of feminine and modern. I can't quite convince myself to spend over $600 on such unique separates, but with a more practical shell and maxi skirt, you get the same cool effect. The Jackie Shell is one of my go-to tops—a simple and timeless silhouette, it can look refined or casual depending on how you style it. Stock up! You'll be more comfortable in this more conservative style than in a belly-baring crop (at least I would!)—and the Topshop skirt's thigh-high slit keeps the overall look young and flirty. I'd wear this to a summer wedding in a heartbeat and happily recycle the individual pieces throughout the season.

MAKE THE DREAM COME TRUE


Shop my favorites from Alice + Olivia
(or see everything right here)!

Monday, March 30, 2015

madewell jeans

I was talking to a friend the other day about jeans shopping when she lamented with disgust how she'd recently had to wear her LOW-RISE jeans, with all other pairs in the wash. It was funny, because I totally agree with her feelings on the once-ubiquitous rise, but I hadn't realized how right she was. Low-rise jeans used to be the only style I bought—and I still have some pairs lingering in my drawer—but I've been acutely aware in the last few months about how uncomfortable they are. Worrying about whether I'm inadvertently showing skin is a full-time job, and one I'd rather skip. I bought some J.Crew high-risers last fall and the waistline is not only slimming, but nicely nips everything in—eliminating risk of indecent exposure. Consider me a convert. I wear jeans almost every day, quickly wearing them out, and desperately need three or four new pairs. On my list: a cropped mid-rise, cool distressed, and high-rise flare or boot (or both?!), and I'm even tempted by some of these vintage crops. It feels like there are more options than ever, and I love it! I'm honestly too lazy to go to a department store and sift through brands when I don't know what I'm looking for (and, uh, no Nordstrom in Wisconsin..), but I've heard good things about Madewell jeans and almost every review on the site is a rave. Since they offer free shipping and returns, I think it's pretty safe to order a bunch of sizes and styles and see what sticks! Not a bad way to spend Monday night, right?! What fits are you wearing this season?


SHOP THE JEANS

Friday, March 27, 2015

j.crew cord necklace

With the exception of one or two statement necklaces, I've been happily riding the minimalist jewelry train for a while. I (obviously) like a little sparkle and shine, but prefer it to be more understated than showy. And since I have budget restrictions (hi car payment!), I go for pieces that can be worn with any outfit, multiple times a week, without being so conspicuous. I recently bought this simple cord necklace—at 25% off, the best $25 I've spent in a long time!—and it's the perfect garnish on everything from casual t-shirts to silk tanks. I'm itching to stack on a set of these bar cuff bracelets next. Hold me back! And happy weekend!



Similar styles I'm loving! 

Thursday, March 26, 2015

spring shoe shopping

Last weekend I sipped a $12 Bud Light and swayed along to the twangy tunes of Eric Church at his Chicago concert. Some of his music is way too hoedown/honkey tonk for me, but some is so, SO good—and the "Springsteen" finale made the whole thing a hit. Mid-way through this week, I can't let it go and am still listening to a few favorites on my commute! I wore my trusty brown ankle boots to the show (the closest I come to cowboy boots), but am hoping it was one of the last times I need socks and so much coverage. As spring slowwwwwly starts to show its face, I'm slowly assembling new warm-weather footwear to replace my beat-up, salt-stained winter styles. First on the list are Steve Madden low wedges. I've worn my current pair ragged and am happy to replace it with a clean nude. A modest 2.5" heel makes this THE most versatile shoe in my closet—enough height for night, unassuming enough for day, and so comfortable! Because of how much I wear my Maddens, I want to invest in a similar style. The Seychelles have essentially the same look, with cool braided detail and a soft seafoam shade that adds interest without being too wild to work with most of my wardrobe. Because there are days I just want to be on solid ground, I need a pair of flats—the Olson's studs, T-strap and flashy color compensate for its vertical challenges. Mules are having a moment—enough said. A block heel keeps these daytime-appropriate and the colored woven upper is super summery and fun. Gold hardware and espadrille trim give a more refined feel to the sporty MK sneakers, which makes me comfortable wearing them even to work (unlike some of the super-athletic, bulkier New Balances and Nikes). Finally, this time of year is all about comfort, and black matte Birkenstocks offer that AND fashion cred. I can see myself wearing them everywhere from grocery runs to casual happy hours. What open-toe styles (and country songs!) are you busting out as temperatures rise?


SHOP THE EDIT
Michael Kors Sneakers | Birkenstock Sandals


Here's a little clip from the concert!