Pinstripes and Keys

Photos By: Andrew Arnold

Outfit: Blazer - H&M ($35), Key Necklace - DIY/Vintage, Boots - Steve Madden ($100)

In August, if you all remember, I attended the Niles Flea Market and bought this beautiful big key to make a necklace out of. When I went to buy a chain for it, I saw this suede rope in orange and decided that would make a way cooler chain than the normal metal. This necklace is now my go-to necklace. I absolutely love it! Whenever I wear it people inquire about where I bought it and what it opens. I always respond the same way, "It's vintage. I bought it at a flea market so I guess it could open anything. It's a mystery." Which is true. And that makes the necklace that much more exciting! 

Also, I know you guys already know how much I love my pinstripe blazer from H&M. Whenever I wear it I get compliments and the truth is, it really is an effortless piece. All I do is throw it over a top and jeans and, voila! I have a chic outfit. I am always on the lookout for pieces that accomplish this, because everyone has days when they are in a rush and a rush isn't any excuse to not look cute and chic. 

What are your pieces you consider effortlessly chic?

I'm Just A Bill

Outfit: Dress - H&M ($18), Sweater - H&M ($25), Boots - Cathy Jean ($100)

We went to Capital Hill and all that was replaying over and over in my head was, "I'm just a Bill. Yes, I'm only a Bill. And I'm sitting here on Capital Hill...". Just a little homage to Schoolhouse Rock :)

Anyways, when the weather starts to get colder our legs tend to hide away in jeans, leggings, khakis, you name it. Sadly, our dresses and skirts tend to gather dust for several months. Well I am here to remind you not to neglect your clothing or play favorites.

Simply layer up those dresses and skirts with tights, socks, leg warmers, sweaters, boots, etc. I promise you will love the the effect. It also may be nice for this look to go out and find a couple dresses that are long sleeved. Sounds easy enough, I know. However, sometimes this can be a challenge. In San Diego Naz and I were always on the hunt for long sleeved dresses, so when I found this one I was delighted. First the flower colors are great for Fall and second, I don't really have any casual dresses that fit somewhat tight. The stretch this dress has is super flattering. 

So, don't forget to wear your dresses and skirts all year round. Go out and find some playful patterned tights to pair with them!

I Turn To You - Clothing Edition

 

Outfit: Striped Sweater - H&M ($18), Lace Skirt - Forever 21 ($20), Oxfords - Target ($15)

Everyone has a "go to" item in their closet, and with fall just around the corner I have pulled mine out once again. I love my oversized striped sweater. You know the days when you are either in a rush or didn't have time to pick out your outfit the night before (yes, I still do that)? Well these are the times I pull out my striped sweater and throw it on with jeans, leggings, shorts, skirts, etc. I just add my accessories and my outfit is complete!

The key to the perfect "go to" item is finding one with versatility. The other day while visiting my Uncle's house I took these pictures (I mean, how can I not seize the opportunity when his house is so beautiful?). I casually dressed up my favorite piece with a lacy skirt, pearls and oxfords. The sweater has a totally different vibe when paired with leggings and boots. However, both looks are equally cute.

The more ways you can wear your "go to" item the better. Trust me, people will be less opt to recognize you wear it so much when you've jazzed it up a million different ways.

So now that you know my little secret piece of clothing, you have to share what your "go to" item is :)