Cream Jacket Woes

I love seeing cream coats in the winter as they are classic, beautiful pieces. However, keeping this coat clean is exceptionally difficult. Last year I wore this coat out one evening and got splashed by a huge truck. It took me a few trips to the dry cleaners, but I got it out.

To be honest I've squirreled away this coat for a while in fear of it getting dirty, but what's the point of having something if you can't wear it? So, it's back out in the real world and I'm loving it. Plus, this coat makes me happy -- so it's worth it.  :)

Coat:  JCrew | similar

Shirt: Silk top | shop

Pants: 1969 Ponte, Gap | shop

Boots: Melissa Button, Frye | shop

Purse:  Kate Spade | similiar

Scarf: Cheetah print | similiar

Wear It Both Ways: Quilted Vest

Fashion Fundamental: 
Quilted fall/winter vest - I really enjoy this layering piece because it provides warmth without bulk. It's pretty versatile for 3-seasons of the year here in the Midwest -- I've even worn it with a dress!  Those of you living in warmer climes still might consider picking one up for those cooler fall and winter days as a great alternative to a jacket.

Also, for more ways to style a quilted vest, see Aili rock it here and here.

Pink-on-Pink
Vest: Gap (old) | similar by JCrew
Cardigan: Uniqlo | similar
Top: Gap (old) | similar
Jeans: 1969 Always Skinny Jeans, Gap | shop - The ankle length fits me perfectly. Shorties FTW!
Boots: Snowmass by Keen | shop

Stripes-on-Pink
Vest: Gap | similar
Necklace: JCrew Outlet
Dress-Worn-as-Sweater: Target | similar dress version or sweater version
Chambray: JCrew | shop
Jeans: Gap | shop
Boots: Hingham, Sperry | shop
Lips: Just Kissable BalmStain in Lovesick, Revlon | shop

En Route to Mexico City

About to head to the airport for an impromptu trip to Mexico City!  The plane fare was so good that I couldn't pass up the chance to visit with some of my very best friends from college.  Crossing my fingers for an easy, relaxed travel experience.

Let me know if you've ever been to Mexico City and if you have any recommendations!

Fashion Fundamental: Riding Boots - Boots are a staple in my fall and winter wardrobe. I wear 'em with anything from silky, feminine blouses to jeans and dresses.

Headband: JCrew
Earrings: Kate Spade | similar
Sunnies: Maui Jim | shop
Top: JCrew | similar with a hood
Bottoms: Gap | shop
Boots: Frye | shop
Lips: Revlon Lip Butter in Lollipop | shop

Wardrobe Staples

Exclusively wearing my wardrobe staples today--chambray shirt, statement necklace, skinny belt, riding boots, and a trench.

What are some of your favorite pieces that are on repeat in your wardrobe?

Fashion Fundamentals: Statement Necklace, Skinny, Belt, Chambray Shirt

Necklace: So Good | similar
Shirt: JCrew | shop
Coat: Banana Republic | shop
Belt: JCrew | similar
Jeans: Gap | shop
Boots: Frye | shop

Patriotic & All Packed Up

I'm headed to DC for work once again, and I'm inspired by our nation's colors.  I'm planning on rocking this vibrant pencil skirt once I arrive, but I like to travel a bit more comfortably.  That's where my my trusty Gap legging jeans (all of the ladies in my family--from my sister-in-law, Michelle, to Ailyn--rock this particular pair of pants).  

Other travel essentials include my Longchamp Le Pilage Expandable carry on.  If at all possible, I avoid checking my luggage. In the past, I've used a surprisingly sturdy and functional duffel bag from Target for around $50; it's been through a lot, and is starting to show some wear, so I upgraded to this functional, reasonably priced, and good looking bag.  Look out for a review on this foldable & expandable tote next week.

Shirt:  Thrifted, $5

Skirt:  Thrifted $5 | similar

Pants: 1969 Ponte 5-Pocket Legging Jeans, Gap | similar

Necklace:  So Good, NYC - styled here 

Shades: Ray Ban Original Wayfarer | shop

Shoes:  Flax in White Kid, Nine West | shop

Bag: 'Le Pliage' Expandable Carry-On, Longchamp | shop

LOFT Bow Blouse + beard papa's

I had to take a little break to eagerly await the delivery of one of my favorite treats: Beard Papa's!  I first experienced this Japanese cream puff when I was studying abroad in Taiwan, where I occasionally frequented the glorious food courts at luxury Japanese department stores.  I've never been a big fan of cream puffs, but I love these Beard Papa's.  I like the classic vanilla custard, but my sister-in-law loves the strawberry eclair.  Try 'em out if you ever have a chance.  

Blazer: JCrew

Blouse: LOFT - scored this bad boy for $4.88

Shoes: Melissa Button Boots in Cognac, Frye | shop

Pants: 1969 5-Pocket Legging Jeans, Gap | shop

Bag: H&M

Presidential Style: D.C. & the Obamas

Capitol, Pennsylvania Avenue

White House

Washington Monument, Supreme Court, Lincoln Memorial, Treasury Building

Mr. & Mrs. Obama
Smithsonian National Museum of African American History & Culture 

A few weeks ago I traveled to beautiful Washington, D.C. for a work trip. I was in town for the groundbreaking of the Smithsonian's 19th museum -- the National Museum of African American History and Culture. I had the chance to see some of the sights, ate oysters at the historic Old Ebbet's Grill and saw the President & First Lady.

No big deal, right?

PSSHHH.... more like I was totally geekin' out that I got to see both of them!

President Obama spoke at the event and said the museum, “Should stand as proof that the most important things in life rarely come quickly or easily; it should remind us that although we have yet to reach the mountaintop, we cannot stop climbing.” Inspiring.

The event was surreal. Mrs. O, our FLOTUS, was even more stunning in person. She looked beautiful in her green Peter Som dress coat. You can follow all of her great looks on one of our favorite blogs -Mrs.O.com. 

It was an awesome trip & D.C. is definitely my kind of town!

Presidential Style

Shirt:  J. Crew

Vest:  The Limited

Jacket:  Banana Republic

Pants:  Drew Bootcut Pant, The Limited | shop

Purse:  Kate Spade

Earrings:  Very Audrey JewelMint | shop

Necklaces:  Thrifted

Shoes:  Orra, Nine West | shop

D.C. Sightseeing Look

Coat:  H&M

Top:  Striped Crew-neck, Old Navy | shop

Pants:  Gap 1969 Ponte 5 pocket | shop

Shoes:  Cece Suede Ballet Flats, JCrew | shop

Earrings:  Very Audrey JewelMint | shop

Save or Splurge: Sunglasses

Now that I'm free of prescription glasses, I'm all about rocking any and all types of sunglasses.  After LASIK, my doctor stressed the importance of always wearing sunglasses--not just because they make you look infinitely cooler--but they are "sunscreen for your eyes"

These sunglasses are terrible, though... When it gets sunny, they simply make everything appear foggy... So not exactly the best pair on the market.  Recently, I have been trying out some higher end shades, and I love the incredible quality and clarity of Maui Jim lenses (+ their general customer service policies).

For someone who is both klutzy and refuses to baby her possessions in the least (read: my iPhone doesn't live in a case.  I know, I know, I'm living on the edge), expensive sunglasses seem like a risk.  Envision this scenario: You've just been running errands and didn't want to use the public restroom, so you rush into the house and drop all of your stuff on the floor.  One misstep later and your $300 shades are done for.

This has happened to me.  Luckily, I seem to be buying my sunglasses at various gas stations and purchasing them primarily on the basis of their ability to fit over my prescription lenses.  Function trumps Style.

My stuff needs to be functional, durable, and stylish.  It's hard enough to find that combination without bringing price into the equation; I'm trying to carefully consider what is worth spending hard earned dollars on versus settling for the cheaper, but still serviceable version (i.e. Go for the name brand aspirin or generic version? They're technically the same, right?).  Just see my review on these Melissa Button Boots to see the critical consideration I gave a single pair of boots or a cheapie F21 Dress.

All that being said, an extra 20 bucks spent on a pair that doesn't make every sunny day into a hazy fog is probably worth it, right?

What are your thoughts on saving or splurging on designer sunglasses?

Sunnies: Gas station
Necklace: Gift
Cardigan: Jackie Cardigan, JCerw | shop
Shirt: Selvedge Chambray Shirt, JCrew | shop
Pants: 1969 Ponte 5-Pocket Legging Jeans, Gap | shop
Boots: Melissa Button Boots in Cognac, Frye | shop
Bag: H&M - very similar one in stores now

Winter Boot Picks and Reviews

 

This is a perfect time to grab a pair of discounted winter boots because department stores are generally trying to clear out winter merchandise to make way for the brighter lighter spring collections.  Check out our picks for the perfect winter boot!

I took photos of the bottom of these boots, so you could check out the shoe's sole and tread--an important factor in winter footwear.

Snowmass by Keen in Brindle/Grape Nectar & Black/Dark Shadow | shop
The pair on the far left are Ailyn's brown pair of Snowmass; she's had them for almost two years, and they've held up pretty well.  She especially loves how low maintenance these boots are and their easy sneaker-like feel.  They're warm and the best part: they're slip-on.  No need to tie laces or even bend down to adjust the tongues.  Simply slide 'em on, and you're ready to tromp around the snow.  On her recommendation, I purchased the black version, but instead of looking sleek and cool, they were clunky and clumsy.

Tivoli by Sorel in Black/Grout ($89.50) | shop
I have been looking at these boots for a few seasons. They are bright and fun, and even come with an additional pair of colored laces, which I really appreciated. I decided not to keep these as because the tongue of the shoe is completely cloth based. Though the houndstooth looks great, the practicality of the boots will not hold up to a typical midwest winter.

Neither of these boots worked for me, so I picked up two classics--a pair of Original Tall High Gloss Boots in black by Hunter the preppy cool 6" Bean Boots by L.L. Bean.  Both of these pairs arrived recently, so I'll be sure to let you know how I like them.





Coat: Banana Republic
Cardigan: JCrew
Top: Urban Outfitters
Pants: 1969 5- Pocket Legging Jean, Gap | shop similar

I can see clearly now...

I must really enjoy this purple and ruffly white combo because I have been known to repeat it.

In other news, I'm thrilled that my LASIK surgery was successful!  Admittedly, my vision is slightly blurred, but it's pretty freakin' miraculous that I can suddenly see clearly!  The experience was a little more traumatic than I had prepared for, but I'm already trying out eyewear that I avoided when my vision was awful since I'm definitely too clumsy for expensive prescription sunglasses.

For those currently sporting four eyes scoping out a new look, I suggest checking out Warby Parker and sending out for a few different frames.  Warby Parker offers an online shopping junkie's favorite service of free shipping & free returns; Warby Parker and other online glasses retailers are a great alternative to stopping by your local Lenscrafters to get a true feel for the fit, comfort, and style of a prospective pair.

Just wanted to gives you a heads up regarding a few great sales going on now at Gilly Hicks (extra 50% off redlines & free ship+free returns w/minimum purchase of $50), several markdowns at Zara (free ship + free returns), 40% off everything + free shipping, no minimums at Talbots (with code 019588431 - Thanks Gigi!) and deep discounts at Land's End + free shipping with code: BLIZZARD and pin: 1038 (Thanks Chloe!).  Are you shopping the MLK & end of season sales?

Cardigan: Jackie Cardigan, JCrew | shop
Top: Cotton Voile Cascade Ruffle Blouse, LOFT | shop
Belt: JCrew (old)
Pants: 1969 Ponte 5-Pocket Leggings, Gap | shop
Shoes: Abalene, Nine West | shop