A Perfect Fit - Polka Dots + Plaid

When: Last Friday, since Friday's are when my brain is most creative and I out dress this town.

Alterations - The Key to a Perfect Fit

If you follow my Instagram you may have seen a peek of this outfit on Friday, but if not you should jump over and view the bits that don't always end up here on the blog.  In any case glad you are here!

This particular Tory Burch dress appealed to me because of the details it incorporated; an intricate wavy woven plaid, a to die for silk lining, cool ocean toned colors & that fringe.  The only problem was it had been made for a person who had a much longer torso than I.  The straps on the dress were just too long and did not sit right on my shoulders, but everything else fit perfectly.  So before returning it to the rack I asked the tailor if it was possible to alter the strap length on the dress to fit me.  Yes, it turns out, it was possible.   

Not everything fits perfectly when you try it on, however strap length is one of the easier things to fix and can be done by a tailor or yourself if you're willing to take that risk.  Pants or jeans are another simple fix if they are too long, waist modification however are another story completely.  So remember, all you need to do is ask, and you may just get your wish to come true when it comes to finding your perfect fit. 

Dress: Tory Burch Evelin Plaid Woven Dress via Nordstrom Rack, $120/$995

Heels: Kate Spade 'Lisa' Polka Dot Pump via NR, $170/$358

Handbag: Kate Spade via NR $160/$450

Necklace: Large Sunflower Necklace via J. Crew, $20/$55

Bracelet: Etched Enamel Bracelet via J. Crew, $12/$30

Sunglasses: Face a Face, Gleam2

Fall Slate

When: Last week, mother nature couldn't decide between Spring and Fall so this is what happens.

To be completely honest I've been disappointed with Summer's performance this year, its been somewhat lackluster.  Skipping out on the days when the thermometer erroneously reads 120 degrees on my dashboard when in reality it's 99.  Yes, those days never arrived here this year and that my friends is why I continually default to jeans.  Sad as it is it's come to this.

Not all jeans are created equal and for that reason finding the right weight to wear in the summer can be a bit tricky.  It's a fine line between comfort, thickness and breathability.  Oddly no matter what kind of white jeans I have tried, all seam to be the perfect package for summer.  Looser fitting jeans, boyfriend or straight leg cropped can also work particularly well, if they aren't a normal weight jean.  Skinny jeans which are a medium weight may work in the summer, look for ones with a bit of stretch in them that breath.  All to soon we'll be back in them for another 6 months and then Summer will return again and hopefully get its act together.

Jeans: imogene + willie 'Lucy' in Slate, $50 (amazing sale)/$$195 

Top: J. Crew Merino Tipped Side Panel Sweater, $20/$89 go up a size for looseness

Shoes: Kate Spade Metro Wedge, via Nordstrom Rack, $99/$358

Scarf: Oscar de la Renta, via an Estate Sale, $3 (yes, 3 dollars!)

Earrings: NR, $15

Sunglasses: Kate Spade 'Albertine' via NR, $60/$120

Newsprint

When: Last Friday, which is usually a fancy it up kind of day for me since it's almost the weekend.

We can thank my Mom for this lovely top which she picked out while we were shopping together at a Nordstrom Rack in her part of town.  It is the perfect old meets new classic that could be paired with a variety of skirts, pants or shorts for many years to come.  When I tried the top on I was surprised at how easy and comfortable it was to get on and wear and it was at that point I stated reading the newsprint.  Fascinating I tell you.  I also enjoy that it plays with type in a large and small way and how the large font gives the newsprint a place to fit in.  The size I am wearing above is a small, but it could definitely fit a medium as it has room for someone with a larger chest than I.  All in all I love this top, and I love that my Mom was able to pick it out for me.  

Top: Nic + Zoe Newsprint Top, gift from my Mom via Nordstrom Rack, $36/$128

Pants: J. Crew Minnie Pant, $54/$79

Pumps: Valentino Rockstud Caged Pump via NR, $250/$995

Sweater: Nic + Zoe via NR, $20/$144

Bracelet: Kate Spade via NR, $25

General Flats

When: Last week sometime not exactly sure when, but all I have to say is this was an easy choice.

What's not to love about dresses in the Summer?  They are lightweight, breezy and best of all they are one piece, which means there is no guess work in trying to figure out what top to pair with what bottom that coordinates with those shoes.  Whew, lots to think about there.  But for those days that your brain is out to lunch before you've had breakfast, dresses are the key to looking pulled together when well, you just aren't.  The only real decision you might have to make is on the shoes and my general rule for dresses is this:

Long Dress/Skirt: higher heels or boots.

Mid-length Dress/Skirt: Usually a mid to high heel/boots.

Short Dress: Flats or low and I mean low heel.

Rules can always be broken however if it looks questionable to you it's probably not the right fit.  Choose a shoe you ultimately feel amazing in and you won't go wrong!  Have a great weekend.

Dress: Trina Turk (old) via Nordstrom Rack, $49

Flats: Kate Spade 'General' Flats, Free w/Nordstrom Notes ($82)/$258

Bracelet: Kate Spade "Oh La La" Bracelet via NR, $25 similar here

Earrings: Textured Gold Hoops via NR,  $10

Sneaker + Skirt = Sneakirt

When: On the last day of Spring, with lots of places to be around town, such as pilates class and shopping.

So I have to ask the question, would you wear sneakers with a skirt, or do you think it's just horrifying to even consider the thought?  I have seen the 1980's sneaker/skirt (Sneakirt) combo and it wasn't pretty then, however now I believe there may be some room for this trend if done correctly.

Number one: No socks please, we don't all need flashbacks from the 1980's & Working Girl.
Number two: The level of shoe detail should match the level of the outfit.  See above.
Number three: Color, color, color & pattern.  Use them to your advantage with your outfit.
Number four: High tops are not great for elongating the legs, a shorter skirt level is necessary.
Number five: Look for almond toe or semi pointed for an elongation of the leg.

This said, try things out.  Wear what you feel comfortable in.  My sister wore her Dr. Martens with EVERYTHING and you to can make it work if you own it.  It's the attitude that counts.

Sneakers: Converse by Jack Percell Helen Sequin Ox, similar via Nordstrom Rack $55/$125
Leather Skirt: Hinge Leather Panel Peplum Skirt via NR, $54/$150 expensive, reasonable
Top: J. Crew V-Neck Shell $25/$40 on sale now with an extra 40% off
Cardigan: Nic & Zoe via NR $20/$144
Handbag: Milly Victoria via NR $135/$435
Tote: Kate Spade via Ebay, $60

Paris

When: Last Friday, as this sweatshirt was calling my name and the color was just too perfect.

This one is for my dearest friend Erin, who I believe has a secret penchant for long slouchy sweatshirts paired with leggings or skinny jeans.  And guess what, this is not a women's sweatshirt, it was found hidden in the men's section lost and forlorn waiting for someone to cuddle.  The inside of the EP sweatshirt is so soft it's as if your sleeping with a samoyed.  

The great thing about men's sweatshirts is that they are straight, which means you don't get that poofy horrendousness that normally comes with large heavy jersey items.  So next time the guy drags you off to the mall to shop, because this happens all the time,  start browsing for yourself.  You never know what might work. 

Sweatshirt: ELEVENPARIS via Nordstrom Rack (Men's) $20/$79
Jeans: Hudson Collin Crop Skinny Jean Supernova via NR, $60/$172
Clogs: Dr. Scholls Classic Sandal, Macy's a loooooong time ago, $40/$64
Handbag: Kate Spade Treesh now "Harrison", $120/$250
Hoop Earrings: NR $10

Pastel + Polka Dots

When: Yesterday, when temps crept up to 63!  Heat wave I tell you, heat wave!

Technically Fall does not end until Saturday, December 21st, when the Winter solstice begins, unfortunately. So I dug myself out of the winter funk due to the spell of  temps below 15 degrees and decided it was time to get colorful before the reality of Winter really set in.  So let's talk about these jeans for a moment.  They are bold yes, but the lightness of the soft pink and the silver tone them down just enough that your cohabitants aren't going to say, "Wow, those are green jeans!."  I'm not mentioning any names, but you know who you are.  Ignore these snide remarks and keep on walking, because you know everyone else is amazed at your ability to meld colors together that they would never even dream of.  Lesson for today: one bold piece works with lighter toned colors to make you look fabulous!  Have a wonderful Wednesday!

Jacket: Tinley Road via Piperlime!, $42/$119 On sale here order a size up from normal
Top: J. Crew, $20
Jeans: Hudson Crop Collin Skinny Supernova, $60/$178
Shoes: Kate Spade Lisa Pump, $170/$358
Necklace: Self made with my mom! $18 for materials
Bag: Kate Spade via Ebay, $80/$500

Peachy Equipment

When: Last Thursday, when I didn't quite believe it was fall and wanted it to still be summer.

Shopping in the Off Season

If you're wondering how on earth I managed to buy an Equipment sweater for less than $200 I'll share a secret with you - I buy in the Spring/Summer for Fall/Winter.  I know you don't want to even think about Winter in Summer, but your wallet will thank you, if you do.  Plus, it's always fun to pull out brand new items you haven't worn before for the upcoming season when you are switching out those shorts for sweaters. Shopping in the heat of Summer is also how I landed these Sorel boots, which are normally $220, for $80. Is there anything you have found for an amazing deal in the off season?  Tell me here!

Sweater: Equipment 'Sloane' via Moda Operandi mega sale, $100/$328
Jacket: Joie 'Jevon' via Nordstrom Rack, $199/$888
Necklace: Kate Spade 'Mod Squad' $48/$155
Jeans: Guess 'Starlet' (older), $98
Handbag: Milly 'Victoria' Crossbody via NR, $131/$395
Flats: Frye 'Carson' Studded Ballet Flats via NR $44/$168
Follow my blog with Bloglovin

Sequined Skirt + J.Crew

When: Monday, because you have to start the week with a spoonful of sparkle!

I have to tell you, some days I have no idea what I will be wearing until I sift through my tiny packed closet and spot something that resonates with my mood for that day.  Sometimes the dresses win out, this usually happens when it's too hot or at the beginning of Fall when the dresses days are numbered.  Other weeks it's all about the jeans white, black, skinny, crop, boyfriend you name it, if it's comfortable and I can dress it up, I wear it.  Then there are the days in which you need extra sparkle to lift your spirits, so every time you see that glimmer from the sun hitting the sequins you smile.  Well, that was this Monday.  Hope your having a sparkly week!

Shirt: J. Crew, $40/$68
Sequin Skirt: J. Crew (2007) via consignment & brand new with the tags still on it, $44/$188
Shoes: Kate Spade "Lisa" Polka Dot Pumps via Nordstrom Rack, $170/$325
Necklace: Urban Outfitters, $10/$20
Bracelet: J. Crew, $20