found. james jeans satin combo blazer.

Let me preface this post by saying I originally created this series for aspirational, probably-out-of-my-price-range pieces that the fashion lover in me can't help but flirt with (so if you see $600 boots and wonder whether I know my audience, there's my answer). I will also feature lower-end items that really strike me, but FOUND is an end-of-the-week, we've-made-it-to-Friday, free reign safe space for me (and you) to go gaga over a really amazing boot, bracelet, beret—or in today's case, blazer.

So let's gaga.

Both menswear and velvet were identified as discrete trends for fall, meaning this James Jeans Satin Combo Blazer kills two sartorial birds with one stone. And the type A in me loves that efficiency. Satin lapels add a level of luxury to an already fit-for-a-queen velvet garment that will have the masses gathering at your knees and yearning for a feel. There's something about a tailored jacket that makes you feel like snapping some whips and capable of commanding a room, right? The business-minded silhouette mixed with festive, here-to-party fabric means this cold weather must-have will stun for work or play—versatility that I say justifies a little splurge.

Get inspired with more ways to wear velvet this season from Vogue.

firmoo fashion frames

I spent the early part of this week in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan so the past few days have been a blur. It's always nice to be in Iron River, despite this trip's sad occasion, but I'm looking forward to getting back to my routine, sleeping in and taking it easy after a lot of time in the car and emotionally exhausting events.

Sweatpants and a side braid is my go-to look for lazy days, but I have a lot of friends whose first step is to swap contacts for glasses when they shift into low gear. I don't require vision correction (yet...), but I thought it'd be fun to try out some fashion frames as a finishing touch for a casual afternoon running errands, doing laundry and answering emails after arriving back in Minneapolis on Wednesday.

Firmoo's square and tortoise frames are really cute, felt well-made in my hand, and had a completely transformative effect. I looked so different in them—and felt kind of hipster!—so if you're interested in mixing it up (or actually have a prescription), check out Firmoo. The site hosts a ton of different single vision, multifocal and non-Rx frames (and sunglasses, too). You can customize your pair with lens color, coatings and thickness, and there's a "try on" option so you can see how each pair sits on a face. I found myself wanting several styles, and with retails considerably lower than popular Warby Parker, I wouldn't feel guilty picking up a few.

Ultimately, I wouldn't wear them to work or on a date, but making dinner at my apartment and watching SNL on Netflix, these trendy frames helped me transition into "relax mode" just like my favorite sweats. Considering these for another option. What do you think—would you wear glasses as a fashion accessory or save the "disguises" for Halloween? Get the details below!

Shop all Firmoo Glasses | New Arrivals  | 15% OFF Styles

Firmoo Glasses c/o | Hive & Honey Dress | Leopard Loafers

Essie polish in Bahama Mama | NARS lipstick in Heat Wave | Coach Wallet

photos by Andrew Saxum

13 must-have summer swimsuits

Happy Monday! Despite some late-night insomnia—worsened by a prolonged lightning show—I feel ready for a new week. It was one of those full yet relaxing weekends. Minneapolis was super humid as storms built, so naturally my thoughts revolved around stripping down and going swimming—which is how I wound down on Sunday afternoon.

It may seem late in the summer to be hunting for an annual addition to your swimsuit assortment, but I think the tide is high: more styles are on sale, you've had time to develop a tan and tone up, and it's far enough into the season where you know the trends and which you want to tackle.

Personally, I'm bypassing the popular maillots and high-waist bikinis in favor of sporty cut-away tops, strappy high-neck styles and classic bandeaus. Whatever your taste, the fun thing is that all swimwear has become so stylized and designed—today's options far surpass simple triangles and scoop-neck Speedo onesies. Hitting the pool is now as much a chance to express your style as hitting happy hour. Forget about freaky tan lines for a few hours and slip into something a little edgier, a little sassier, a little more FUN. What else is summer for?!

p.s. I'm super picky about cover-ups and managed to find some really cute ones while swimsuit searching that I had to share. Keep scrolling for beach day extras!

1 | Mikoh black bikini 2 | Kate Spade flamingo bandeau

3 | Red Carter high-neck bikini 4 | PILYQ embellished bikini

5 |  Tess Giberson wrap bikini 6 | Mara Hoffman reversible bikini
7 | Madewell bandeau 8 | Prism Okinawa top (30% off)
9 | Rip Curl Bomb Warrior bandeau 10 | Melissa Odabash swimsuit (30% off)
11 | Rip Curl bralette bikini 12 | Mikoh Barbados bikini 13 | Suboo panelled swimsuit

1 |  Sadie Dress 2 | OndadeMar Tunic 3 | Chica Cover-up
4 | Love Sam Embroidered Dress 5 | Sheer Touch Lotion Sunscreen
6 | Toya Dress (30% off) 7 | Rash Guard — cute with tapered joggers, too!
8 | Turkish Beach Towel — 11 colors! love the simplicity.
9 | Beach Chair — necessary for when you want to sit up and read
10 | Colorblock Wetsuit — I can pretend I surf, right?!
11 | Clinique SPF30 Face Cream — doesn't make my face break out!
12 | Maya Pouch — perfect size to grab and go to the palapa for lunch

found. club monaco rina vest.

There are really only a handful of "fashion moments" I remember in my life, as my style has always been pretty simple. And—as my older sister recently reminded me after looking through old photos with a friend—I didn't have any style to speak of until after high school. Cringe. I'd blame the Catholic dress code, but it really wasn't that restricting.

I do distinctly recall, though, the beginning of senior year of college, when blazers from H&M, Topshop and Zara became something casual to wear to Mug Club nights at Brothers and the Blue Moose, rather than stuffy corporate cover-ups for our mothers. See Exhibit A. It was a combination of feeling, on the brink of the "real world," mature enough to pull off the sophisticated style and these then-fringe fast-fashion stores registering on my primitive Midwest retail radar.

I still think blazers are chic—a wardrobe staple—though I don't turn to them as often for bar nights with friends anymore. The Club Monaco Rina Vest, though, a kind of sleeveless version in stretch crepe, is appealing for such outings—the next evolution of workwear turned playwear. It's a grade more mature and cooler than a standard blazer, something confident women with a secure fashion sense would effortlessly slip on, and I feel ready to go there. Plus, its minimalism is perfect for hot summer weather, and the drapey, lengthy silhouette has a relaxed vibe that jibes with the season. I'd wear the Rina Vest over a white mini dress or short-shorts to play with proportion and add some height with espadrille wedges.

6 beach bags you need in your life

I had so much fun at my friend's cabin this weekend. It's just an hour and a half southeast of Minneapolis, and the drive along the Mississippi is the prettiest. The weather was perfect on Saturday, and we made the most of it lying in the sun, swimming off the boat and staying up late. Dinner involved pigs in a blanket, so the day basically couldn't have been better.

I stuffed lake and overnight essentials in an old canvas carryall from college, which worked fine, but served as a reminder I could use an upgrade for future day trips. I've never had a "dedicated" beach bag—always repurposing totes bought for school or travel. But as I get older, I'm gradually able to buy products that serve unique purposes (like a panini press or margarita glasses) rather than relying on one thing to do it all, and as I do, I'm continuously pleased with the results. Like, there's a reason we don't sip wine from water cups.

Plus, hauling sunglasses and SPF in a tough but lightweight tote made for the sun and sand makes me feel more comfortable—like I know how to "beach." Nothing worse than looking like a rookie. All six of these fun styles would heat up the boardwalk, but forced to choose I'd proudly carry the playful clear turquoise (reminds me of jelly sandals!) or the tasseled Sensi, handmade by Ecuadorian artisans. That woven straw look is quintessentially coastal, evoking quaint seaside villages, and in black, it won't clash with whatever the swimwear of the day.

What are you carrying to the lake this summer?

1 | Clear Beach Tote (30% OFF) 2 | Sisal Tote

3 | Striped Maxi Tote 4 | Colorblocked Tote (30% OFF)

5 | Tasseled Tote 6 | Multicolor Tote

found. gold-plated barrette.

Before my parents moved out of their house a few weeks ago, I was forced to go through my bedroom and get rid of stuff that had been lingering far too long: magazine tears of Josh Hartnett and Paul Walker taped to the wall, faded from years in the sun. A mold of my teeth from before I got braces (yup). The never-lit candle keepsake from prom 2006.

Of course, I kept some things—the epic birthday menu my older sister developed (yes, developed) when I turned nine, professionally signed by the "restaurant manager." The program cover I was picked to draw for a kindergarten class performance. And a little pink and purple barrette, proudly displaying my name in puff paint.

I recognized it immediately when I found it in an old jewelry box, glad I had kept it. Magnets and mugs at gift shops and airports never said Kendall (Emily. Always Lauren. Even Cassandra.), so having something—anything—personalized was something to hold onto. And while I'm never going to wear it again, the sweet and preppy look of hair neatly pinned back by a barrette is still stylish—trending, in fact. I saw a feature in the July InStyle on the mane accessory of the moment, and am loving the dramatic, long and skinny styles reminiscent of clips used by stylists in salons. Worn with a side part, it offers a kind of runway feel, in real life.

I wear my hair down almost every day, rarely styling it beyond a blowout or couple quick waves with a curling iron (which is a workout in itself)—clipping in a simple barrette is an easy, effortless way to add a touch of interest to the same old story. This gold-plated one from Mrs. President & Co has a brushed finish for a modern, mature upgrade on my childhood relic, and it's handmade in Brazil for an authentic feel. I'm popping down to Pepin, WI, tomorrow for a day at my friend's cabin, and this would be such a cute way to keep flyaways at bay while boating. Enjoy your weekend!

found. clare v. supreme fanny pack

My sister and I went biking a couple weeks ago (um, so much more fun than running!), and while I was planning to stuff my keys and phone in my bra or something practical like that (...), she was buckled into a cute little bum bag that securely stored the essentials. She was nice enough to let me share the space for the day, but I've since been on the hunt for my own stylish pouch.

Once reserved for dorky dads, designers have resurrected the highly efficient, hands-free fanny pack in luxe materials with feminine flair. The fashion-forward have been wearing belt bags party-hopping for a good year, so the stage is set for regular Midwest girls to follow suit (wink). I can't think of a better option for the music festivals, farmers' markets, art shows and let's face it—State Fair (you need TWO HANDS to handle your cheese curds and Sweet Martha's!)—that fill up summer.

The Clare V. Supreme Fanny is simple enough to work day or night, big enough to fit everything you need for a few hours' field trip, adjustable for the perfect fit, and embossed basketweave leather makes it more elegant than what you'd see on the Greenway. Do you need more convincing than that to add another bag to your collection? I don't! Enjoy the weekend—loving this 80º weather!

found. lavender lace cami

That cami you can comfortably wear for a romantic mussels & frites repast at Barbette or an afternoon whipping around on Valleyfair's wildest rollercoasters is a rare thing—and one to be speedily scooped up. Lace accents and delicate straps that tie in a sweet bow give the J.O.A. Lavender Lace Cami feminine charm, while the billowy body keeps the look playful and light, like a summer breeze.

I wish I'd had it for pizza and patio drinks last night rather than the Canadian tuxedo I ended up in, but that's the way it goes, right? We celebrated my sister's birthday at  Psycho Suzi's, a tacky Polynesian-themed tiki bar overlooking the Mississippi you can't help but embrace. Despite rain and gloom all day, the evening ended in the prettiest blood-orange sunset and I'm continuing on island time straight into the weekend. Hope you have a fab Friday!

SHOP: J.O.A. Lavender Lace Cami

found. lille lace-up points

There's no better way to start the weekend than with shoe shopping. I found the Lille Lace-up Points earlier this week and it was L-O-V-E. The juicy tangerine shade is so fresh and I die for the strappy mix of beachy gladiator and refined flat. Plus, the suede upper means these will glide from summer right into fall. Shop this #cassecrouteFIND and more Boden footwear faves (the Thelma Heel in soft lime..!) below!

nordstrom half-yearly sale

Happy SATURDAY! It's barely cracking 60º today, but the sun's out and it's my first chance since moving in to take advantage of the lounge chairs on my apartment's rooftop. The view is amazing—you almost feel on top of Lake Calhoun—and having to huddle under a hoodie is a small sacrifice.

If you're kicking back like me today, pull out your iPad and peruse my picks from the Nordstrom Half-Yearly Sale—it ends tomorrow! I rely on the sale to pick up pricier items that I just can't justify paying full retail for, like a leather jacket. This draped lapel style is effortless and only $178, while the notice-me two-tone one is unique, which appeals to me. And the Truth & Pride 'RPM' Moto is really classic and a good midpoint in price. Which would you get?

Because it's such a huge sale, it's hard not to treat myself to a few wear-now, seasonal pieces. A sporty one-piece swimsuit is super trendy this year and the Seafolly's front-zip is sexy! I've been drawn to hats lately, and this straw cowboy style would be great for long mornings in the sun like today! Finally, this cheerful tasseled clutch was made for casual nights at Salsa (or wherever you sprint to for summertime chips & margs!).

SHOP THE SALE PICKS 

—fun summer stuff—

Seafolly Swimsuit | Tassel Clutch | Straw Cowboy Hat 

—investments not to miss—

 Tory Burch Flats

Draped Lapel Leather Jacket

Two-Tone Leather Jacket

Moto Leather Jacket

editor's eye: fall fashion ads

Looking at the ads has always been one of my favorite parts of magazine flipping. First I collaged cut-out scraps for elementary school notebooks, then framed editorials for "artsy" wall decor in college. Today, designer campaigns are still a source of inspiration, even if I'm not taking a gluestick and scissors to the glossy pages. Elle compiled a swoon-worthy assortment of this fall's fashion marketing photography, and I filtered out my favorites. Here they are, through my lens.

First thought: I hope it storms soon.
Mood: Young, beautiful and ambitious.  
Story: The city's a gray place but this coat will keep you warm—and high above the soot.  
Phillip Lim.

First thought: I will eat haggis if I have to, just take me to Scotland.  
Mood: Approachable and traditional, with hidden secrets.   
Story: Tartan is a lifestyle and it has a sexy side.  
Mulberry.

First thought: Fall doesn't have to be dark and brooding.  
Mood: Balanced, diverse and driven.  
Story: Transcendent of time and place. 
Missoni.

First thought: Pistachio gelato.  
Mood: Soft, luxe and discerning.  
Story: Dress like a lady, think like a man.  
Armani.

First thought: I need to buy a long trench and book a road trip.  
Mood: Easy and free, pretty masculinity.
Story: Crossing the frontier. Are you coming with? 
Cole Haan.

All photos via Elle.com

retail radar: tamara mellon

image via

One word: Yeehaw. Tamara Mellon, credited with "having built Jimmy Choo into an internationally renowned brand," is charting new territory with her own e-comm site, launched this week. The line is to die for, but the Kowboy Karlie campaign is what lassoed me in. She looks amazing. I've never been a hat girl, but the cat-eyed model smoldering all over the open plain makes me think (wish) I could actually pull off the Bad Ass Hat. TM's brand was created on a "wear now" premise, Mellon pledging to deliver seasonless fashion and calendar-relevant monthly capsules, an inspired concept I think promises to keep the fashion-savvy interested and riding back. Appropriately, the collection's signature is leather and fringe. I'm drawn to the Wild West attitude manifested in sophisticated materials, and love the edge that partnering skirts and dresses with high-shaft heels and booties creates. A roundup of my favorite pieces:

Delicate skinny straps and a trendy + effortless midi hemline.  
Cut Out Dress.

A long-sleeve dress is so sophisticated (and kept sexy by trademark cutouts).
I love that the hemline and gladiators overlap.  
Side Slit Dress.

Clean, structured lines. Always a favorite.
Wide-set straps that reveal an open back is the standout feature.
Sleeveless Leather Jumpsuit.

The excitement of the fringed skirt is balanced by a conservative length and simple white tee.
The wrapped waistline is a fun touch.
Leather Fringe Skirt.

Another high-shaft bootie: it mimics the effect of cowboy boots, but the heel and peep toe
hold on to the femininity of pumps. I love the easy, modest, youthful knee length of the dress.
Suede Fringe Cut Out Dress.

Scala Flat.

Roper Boot.

The perfect turquoise accent to the western aesthetic.  
TM Love Large Tote.

As covetable as these pieces are, they're a little out of my price range. But if you want to jump on the fringe and leather bandwagon, here are some more accessible options to go wild on (and the KateMoss x TopShop collection is another good place to start):

Tibi Fringed Tank (love! on sale!)

Express Fringed Swimsuit

Asos Fringed Clutch
Revolve Fringe Jacket

Monrow Faux Leather Track Shorts  

Topshop Leather Shift 

Topshop Leather Embossed Pouch

Topshop Leather Look Leggings

Mango Faux Leather Bucket Bag

something borrowed and something for the sun

There are a lot of things I’m looking for right now. But in looking for everything we want, it’s easy to overlook the great things we already have. And for twentysomethings like me, two of those are the guiltless freedom to lounge lazily in the apartment all day with zero responsibility and subsist on snacks (namely, string cheese) instead of real meals. I enjoyed both on Sunday. One of my favorite movies, Something Borrowed (who doesn’t love this?), was on TV in the afternoon, and the part where John Krasinski tells Ginnifer Goodwin to “ask for what you want” before she flies from London to New York is kind of my mantra right now. You can’t be a passive player in your own life. Ask and you shall receive, right? It’s step one at least. The numerous Hamptons scenes also reminded me that I need a new swim cover up. A good one is so hard to find – it shouldn’t resemble a Vegas club dress, should keep ruffles and frills to a minimum, and I like long sleeves that give the chest and shoulders a break from the sun. Really into this one. I know. $98 seems extreme. But it will last multiple seasons and you won't be sick of it after one summer, which is justification to splurge. So, can I get a week in Cabo? (Asking for what I want here.) I'll leave you with this. 

image jcrew.com

lightning speed and seahawks

I’m a little cranky. A necklace I ordered from J.Crew arrived last night in two pieces. It’s so cold I’m wearing my coat inside. And I’m facing some frustrating blog obstacles (and general life hang-ups). Nothing too tragic, really, but enough to make my teeth grind. I can’t wait to release my rage on the treadmill later – and hope I can get there without causing any collateral damage. I always run in all black, but there’s something about bright colors that make you feel like you can go harder, better, faster, stronger, right? Well “increase speed” now ‘cause these high-energy pieces will make you feel like Lolo Jones. The most important? Streamlined running tights (don't give chafing a chance), supportive sneaks (my feet are so flat) and a gym-only bag (with separate pockets for damp socks and designer wallet). If you're still not motivated, at least turn on the TV so you can watch someone break a sweat. The Seahawks play the Broncos in Superbowl XLVIII Sunday. Based purely on jersey color, I'll be rooting for Seattle (but you got that from this outfit right?) and snacking on this dip, this hummus and these meatballs. Feeling better already.

pullover. // tights. // tank. // bra. // Camelbak. // hair ties. // shoes. // backpack.

 

polar vortex survival kit

We're in the throes of a polar vortex. So sci-fi. I park outside so I’m not certain my car would have started this morning, but luckily I never made it that far – stayin’ home and stayin’ alive. I have visions of getting stuck somewhere between Blue Mounds and Barneveld and that scenario is one I’d rather avoid. So here’s what’s happening today: my favorite sweater, slippers, the February InStyle, and tea tea tea. Let's break it down: this Banana Republic shawl collar wrap (similar here) is thee best. It hits at the perfect point on the hip (not so long it looks like you’re wearing a caftan, long enough for that indulgently cozy feel cropped cardis just don’t have), is fitted through the arms so you don’t feel sloppy, while the open front keeps it relaxed. It’s made from merino and cashmere – sOH soft. The slippers speak for themselves. Buy them. InStyle and ELLE are my favorite fashion mags, but I prefer the former when I’m in the mood to flip more, read less (ELLE has great, smart articles; InStyle is quicker and more visual). Lastly, I got really into tea last week when I was stranded (voluntarily) at my sister’s Chicago apartment. She went to work and left me with some cheese, a piece of pizza, a couple granola bars, and a jumbo Ziploc bag of tea in every variety. I didn’t want to finish off all her food, so I drank (and drank and drank) tea all day and am sufficiently addicted. Peppermint is my jam. And it’s about time to put some on. Don’t let the vortex get ya. 

Menswear PSA

If you’re a man wearing a shawl collar cardigan, I’m into you. That’s a slight exaggeration, but the point is, my heart skips a beat for this nerd-meets-hipster look. Top with a baseball hat, add a Nordic print or elbow patch and it's on like white on rice. All kidding aside, it’s really attractive when a man knows how to dress and puts a little effort into it. This style, especially, because (one) it’s a little quirky which is cute. And (two) I know some guys interpret the shawl as “out there” (you know, wilder than a crewneck) and wearing it equivalent to taking a step too far into the fashion pool. Au contraire. It's confident. Aware. Mature. Don’t know the difference between a cable knit and shaker stitch? Don’t care! Find something you like and get into it. It’s fun, I promise. Here’s a helping hand: one, two, three, four.

sleep set reality check

Busy week at work, folks. They say peak season is passed, but it doesn’t quite feel that way. No matter, I like the hustle -- though the chaos may be catching up with me. I overslept twice this week (and yes, still made it out the door on time). Tiring schedule aside, the dark winter weather makes it nearly impossible to throw off the blankets at the first AM alarm. And when I get home at night, getting back in those comfy clothes is priority numero uno. The reality: pajamas are more than what you sleep in this time of year. And it's high time to invest in something luxurious (matching separates in a feel-good fabric) that elevates that cozy time at home – dreaming and waking hours. I’m a big fan of vintage, airy sets (bonus: current trend dictates the tops double as cocktail attire). You’ll get more wear out of something lightweight that can hang for three seasons, and adding a monogram (all the rage) really cements the luxe lounge look. Just finish with mocs and a wrap during the coldest months. Happy hibernating!