Friday, September 30, 2011

textured layers

I've been experimenting with adding texture to my fall layers this year. This weekend's layers are going to be comfy and cozy. 


Thursday, September 29, 2011

60's knits

I have been so busy lately I haven't been able to post anything for some time now. Though yesterday I made time in between breaks at work to take some quick pictures and show you what I do a couple times a week.

One of my clear obsessions this season is inspiration from the 60's classic silhouettes. These cropped pants have that feeling to them and by adding a simple thick, over-sized knit on top I felt transformed back to a Mad Men set. Leopard flats, pink lips and a poof on top finished this look off with a little interest. 







(sweater: Thrifted / t-shirt: Gap / pants: Gap / shoes: Target / jewelry: DIY, gifted, vintage, Forever21 ring / Lipstick: Bare Minerals) 

I make caramel apples! Yumm. Right? 

Tuesday, September 27, 2011

how to simply thrift

One of the ways I stay in a simple budget is by thrifting. If you haven't noticed yet I own a lot of thrifted and vintage items. Most of the time I find great things under $6.00! When paying such a small price for some great items I am able to take some risks with on trend pieces. 
Though this can be tricky and overwhelming at times, I came up with some of my top tips for your thrifting adventure.

1. Allow yourself time to look through a lot of clothes: The majority of thrift stores like a local GoodWill or Salvation Army have more rough than diamonds. So give yourself some time and patience to find the gems. 
2. Look for quality fabrics: Cotton is a great resource for any wardrobe, but sometimes it wears down easily. Look for pieces that were made and taken care of with love. Silks, and other rich fabrics are hiding away waiting to be found by YOU!
3. Try on. Try on. And try on again: It's important to try on the many shapes and cuts you will find in the store. Be daring and try on a lot of shapes you wouldn't otherwise. I promise, it won't hurt. 
4. Brainstorm new outfits: While I'm trying things on in the fitting rooms I try to think of my closet at home and what I have to pair with the find. If I can't think of more than three items to pair it with I won't get it (There have been few exceptions to the rule if it is a FABULOUS find). 
5. Have FUN: This shouldn't be a stressful experience. Have fun, bring a friend, make an afternoon out of it. Try on pieces that are goofy, maybe you'll love them.

p.s. Don't forget the hand sanitizer to be extra safe after the shopping.

image via: The Glitter Guide 

Sunday, September 25, 2011

fall's simple reminders

Everything around me is clearly pointing out the official beginning to fall. My favorite season, not only for the multiple layers it demands but for the hot cider, multicolored landscapes, cool sunny afternoons, cinnamon and pumpkin scented candles, pumpkin spiced chai and Sunday nights spent catching up on work with friends while listening to french music. 
For me, fall directs my attention to the many simple things in life I can easily take for granted. It's all about taking the time to remember the simple things in your life right now that put a smile on your face. 


image via: bhg.com

Thursday, September 22, 2011

old layers

It's finally time to start piling on the layers and experimenting with textures. 
Today I decided to mix up the textures with silks, knits and waxed cotton (a pair I never thought of until today). I found so many "new" things from my closet clean out from last year. It's so fun to be able to go back to the wardrobe I had last fall and recycle different items. 
Keep things simple by recycling old sweaters and jackets from last year and re-ware them differently by mixing them with new pieces from the summer. 
In this outfit I paired a newer thrifted silk shirt, sun glasses, and wedges with a sweater and jacket from last year. It's all in the details and accessories here. 





(shirt: thrifted / sweater: Old Navy / jacket: J.Crew / jeans: Gap / wedges: Target / bag: Express / glasses: Foster Grant / jewelry: vintage, J.Crew, gifted from Guatemala)