"The New Black"

Screen tees. Eyelash sweaters. Acid wash denim. All of these are appearing on the fashion scene in a huge way, and what's more fun than wearing these three trends together? This outfit is perfect for a casual Friday at the office, or Saturday morning brunch with friends, both of which make the week just a little bit better. Graphic tees have been around forever, but what really caught my eye with this one is that the saying has actual meaning. We should be more thankful for the good things in life, whether it's family and friends, crisp fall weather, or acid wash denim making a comeback. Find a pair with a little destruction (also huge this year), and don't forget to cuff the bottoms - I found these at Express, and they are one of the comfiest pairs of jeans I own. Throw on an eyelash sweater in a jewel tone color (they are unbelievably soft), and you're set to go. Not feeling a cardigan? Switch it out for a white blazer to class it up a bit, or go without a third piece and make the screen tee the main event.

Sweater: H&M

Screen Tee: Loyal Army

Jeans: Express

Shoes: Vince Camuto

"Buy Less, Choose Well."

Five years ago, I wouldn't have been able to relate to this quote; I had no problem opening up my wallet like money grew on trees - a problem I'm still working on. Whenever I thought something was cute, I just had to have it. It didn't matter if I already had close to the same thing hanging in my closet (hence the 30 oversize crewneck chunky sweaters folded on my shelf that won't get the TLC they rightly deserve). Recently though, I've had a change of mind. Since deciding to create this blog (starting my first big girl job and paying my own bills probably had some effect too), I've become a lot more picky with my purchases, only buying items that are very different from what I already own. I want to expand my closet, but with new and interesting, instead of the same old thing. Shopping now has turned into somewhat of a treasure hunt, with satisfaction arising only when I find that one new "golden" piece. Because of this, I've started to collect more statement pieces, and my wardrobe is becoming a more and more exciting place. Vivienne Westwood, you are one smart woman. 

Mixing Prints: A "Do"

My new mantra when creating outfits is "just try it." Like so many other aspects of life, trying something new can take you somewhere great, whether it is a love for an activity or hobby you previously didn't know existed, or an outfit combined of pieces you never would have thought to put together. Mixing prints, or wearing black and navy, was considered taboo at one point in the past. Well, not anymore. The key to making this work though is using two prints that are very different from one another; when the prints are too similar, it will start to look sloppy. Polka dots are another great option that would effortlessly pair with this gorgeous midi skirt from H&M.  Now go off and take an adventure through your closet! It may just end with you doubling your outfit options. 

Top: H&M

Skirt: H&M

Shoes: Vince Camuto

Clutch: DSW

"Vogue Instead of Dinner"

Although I feel like I have better control of my finances, except for when it comes to shoes (maybe Carrie and I are more alike than I realized), I find this quote very relatable to my life. Coming home from a long day of work and reading fashion lifestyle magazines such as Glamour, Allure and Vogue, retains some excitement in the sometimes monotonous weeknight routine. I may not skip dinner to buy the new issue hot off the stands (Carrie, have you heard of a yearly subscription?), but I definitely respect that Carrie has her priorities in order, and knows what satisfies her "appetite." 

Boyfriend Jeans + Blazers

It took me two years to find the perfect boyfriend jeans. TWO YEARS. The struggle was beyond real. Either the jeans were not as baggy as I wanted, hence they weren't actually true boyfriend jeans (designers - take note please), or the waist was too tight or too loose. For a while I thought I'd never find a pair I liked. But when that glorious day came a few weeks ago, I could not have been more excited. I styled mine with an oversize white t-shirt, hot pink blazer and floral pumps. The pop of bright color and floral pattern add a feminine touch to the look, while the oversize t-shirt holds that relaxed, cool-girl feeling. To change up the look a bit, opt for a black and white striped shirt to pair under the blazer, or choose a crisp white button-front oxford, tucking in only the front. The key here is to keep the oversize look throughout; once a fitted shirt is paired with boyfriend jeans, it starts to look sloppy and uneven. Be patient; your perfect boyfriend jean is out there somewhere. But for now, I'll leave you with the wise words of my friend Katie..."Who needs a boyfriend when you have great boyfriend jeans?" 

Blazer: Charlotte Russe

T-shirt: Target

Boyfriend Jeans: Mossimo denim (Target)

Shoes: Anne Klein

Bag: Michael Kors Jet Set Tote  

"Style Is What You Choose"

Many people can keep track of fashion week, or read popular magazines, and talk about what is currently trending and fashionable. Top designers dress celebrities for prime time events in their most sought after work, hoping I'm sure for their pieces to get air time in front of the rest of the world. These are all outlets for designers to convey what's on the cusp of becoming the next big thing. But what truly separates fashion from style is how each individual embraces those fashion pieces in their own wardrobe. Blindly following fashion trends will make an individual blend in, but really personalizing and experimenting with those fashions will create a unique style that many will remember. I encourage you to try new things; sometimes it doesn't work out, but other times it creates a look that will make you feel like you can rule the world. 

Fallin' For Maxis

Fall is easily my favorite time of year, but it usually means that I'll be retiring many of my dresses for the next six months. Maxi dresses like this one from Besselli are a great way to prolong that slightly heart-breaking moment though. Incorporating rich jewel-tone hues of the primary colors are an easy way to get away with pieces that are traditionally thought to be a summer staple. And did I mention how perfect this would be for date night? The blouson silhouette is very flattering on the waist, while the side slit shows the perfect amount of skin, which can be a rare sight once the temperature starts to drop. Just throw on a black fitted leather jacket for a chilly evening, and prepare for a show-stopping entrance wherever you go.

Dress: Bella Luxx

Necklace: Relativity

Shoes: Mix No. 6

Clutch: DSW

"Fashion is Instant Language"

Although I only recently became familiar with this quote by Miuccia Prada, it has quickly become one of my favorites. Not only does it speak to how quickly we are to judge one another, but it really hits the nail on the head with the idea that what someone chooses to wear is an expression of their personality. I'll be honest; I tend to regard people with a higher amount of respect if they are well dressed and portray a sense of "fashion hygiene." Maybe because I feel I can relate more easily with their lifestyle, but I also believe it shows they have a high amount of respect for themselves as well. I'm a strong believer in dressing for who you want to be. Take chances, experiment and push yourself to the next level, especially when it comes to portraying yourself through fashion.