Fashion Inspires Confidence

Yves Saint Laurent, you've done it again. This is such a great quote from the late French designer, and it could not be more relatable to women everywhere. A stylish and well put together outfit does wonders for my mood and confidence, and adds a little more spring to my step. When I look and feel good, not only do the obstacles and tasks ahead of me seem a little less daunting, but I'm also more eager to start chipping away at them. So, skip the sweatpants today, and pull together a more fashionable and trendy outfit from your closet; you'll be pleasantly surprised at the confidence and ambition that ensues.  

Indian Summer

This fall, I've been showing some major love for my cozy oversize sweaters. But when we experienced an Indian summer last week with temperatures hitting the low 70's, I was elated for the chance to get one more use out of a few of my fall dresses. I love the midi hemline of this dress, which is perfect for the workplace while still showing a little skin (although a little pale - how have I lost all of my tan already?!). Add to that the fact that this dress incorporates the oh so popular color of the year, marsala, and we have a great combo. It was a little chilly in the morning, so I threw on this fitted leather jacket from Express. It worked to wear it open and show the neckline of the dress, or wear it partially zipped to accentuate my waist. If you live in a warmer part of the country, throw an unbuttoned sheer blouse over the top and tie it up at the waist for a fun and flirty take on this versatile dress. 

Dress: Ann Taylor Loft

Jacket: Express

Shoes: I.N.C.

Bag: Michael Kors

Watch: Michael Kors

Sunglasses: Tommy Hilfiger

"Fashion Comes from Within"

I think for many people, fashion means wearing famous designer names from the runway, or following unrealistic trends that are often seen in couture magazines. In reality though, fashion is all about taking risks and trying new things. When was the last time you thought a pair of skinny jeans and a plain t-shirt was on the brink of the fashion scene? I'm guessing not recently; it's a safe outfit. When you find the drive to seek out and create fashion though, there are often great results. And that doesn't mean dropping hundreds of dollars on a dress. I've found many of my favorite pieces at H&M and TJ Maxx. It's all about the desire for something different, and the willingness to go find it. 

"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