boudoir

From that title, one might think it's an excuse to run around in underwear. However, boudoir is one of my favorite fashion trends (when executed appropriately). And we're taking it to the work place!

I think the basic rule is be subtle, like only wearing one item considered intimate appearal--camisole, slip, etc.  And now that I have stated the rule, I'm breaking it the same post. 

My favorite thing about this outfit (besides the family heirloom brooch) is that the "dress" in actually considered a night gown. I added the slip (yes, it's separate) to add length for those conservative environments with a fear rising hemlines.

I'm wearing:  dress, belt,  & shoes (thrift);  sweater (Gap); and brooch (sweetest birthday gift ever)

office errands

For those of you who are blessed with a more relaxed work environment, the rest of us are green with envy.  I'm choosing to feature denim as "work-appropriate" because let's face it--some jeans look more classy than dress pants.
Confession:I have worn dress pants that have made me look homeless and/or visually impaired.

The Power of the Dark Denim forever holds my vote (especially this pair) for the following reasons:
1) considered less casual
2) has a slimming effect through the hips and thighs (need I say more?!)
3) hides coffee spills

And here's the cost:
Jeans (Banana Republic Outlet) $15
Striped Shirt (Thrift) $3
Blazer (Thrift) $5
Necklace (Target clearance in stores now!) $5
Shoes (Target via Thrift) $4
Feeling Comfortable at Work:  priceless

Some things, budgets can't afford. For everything else, there's a thrift store.

Grand total of $32--not bad at all.

work it

A few months ago, a friend suggested to do posts on what to wear to work.  The only problem is that I'm not currently working, and the business casual clothes seem like a closet buzzkill when getting ready.  However, things-are-a-changin'.  In a very few short weeks, your truly will be graduating with a degree that indicates I not only should have a job but also that boyfriend jeans are unacceptable.

I was reviewing previous posts to identify a pattern in my own personal style only to discover that my outfits are all over the place.  From hipster to hippie, I embrace the almond-toed pump as well as going barefoot (unfortunately Taco Bell will not serve you without shoes). 

It is no secret that women have to wear many "hats;" therefore, it only make sense that we possess some sort of wardrobe that accommodates the roles of family relationships, career driven, sexy, relaxed, girl-next-door, adventurous, outdoorsy, city girl, country mouse, etc.  It's like an identity crisis in the making--no wonder we cling to fashion as a means of self-expression; we might otherwise be consumed by the responsibilities of life.  Therefore, I'm dedicating the next few posts as the "Work Edition"--different women, different careers, different styles.

PS- this entire outfit was under $20.

Works Cited:  dress & shoes (thrift); belt (xxi); bag (h&m)

max out

One of the most significant aspects I have learned about personal style is how you present yourself.  Grace and composure do not come most natural to me.  I'm typically the person hee-hawing at myself because I just tripped over my own feet leaving a wake of destruction.  I am fortunate enough to be surrounded by people who find this endearing.

I was not made for the runway so supermodels are not worth the aspiration, which brings me to the question, "In whom do you aspire to be like?"  Celebrities, designers, and saints are great; but I am challenged and encouraged by those around me.

I think everyone has that one person in their life who walks into the room and you immediately wants to stand up straighter and spit out the gum that makes you look like a cow chewing on cud.  Role model, mentor, hero-- there is someone who has taught me the epitome of  "lovely."  In my book, a person worth imitating deserves a shout-out:  so thank you, Teresa Davis (my teacher, friend, and supervisor).

Works Cited:  dress, necklace & cardigan (h&m); shoes (thrift); bracelets (xxi)

swapped

Lindsay is adorable. The Way of the Ascot has a new author; and she's the cutest. Her remix from our swap is worth a post and shout out.
Loves it.

I think reading posts about blog swaps is my favorite. One garment, two different looks.  Kendi Everyday takes the crown for Queen of the Swaps. It's one thing to make your own clothes look effortless, but to rock another's apparel--that's impressive.

swapped shirt:  thrifted

hats

The answer is yes--I am in desperate need of a hair cut. In spite of my epic sinus flu, I'm journeying to downtown Columbus with kleenex and drugs in tote to the Aveda salon. I know people use expressions like "pain is beauty," but more importantly, I call upon Steel Magnolias--and my hair looks like a brown football helmet. Thanks, Sally Fields. 

A girl can only get away with pig tails for so long.

Besides, what could be better for the body or soul than a little spa treatment. I may feel like crap, but my hair will be fantastic and chakra balanced.

In all fashion relevance, I think hats may be my favorite summer accessory. I'm all about keepin' it light.

boyfriend

The thing I love most about the "boyfriend" style is that I get to fall out of bed and put on the most unflattering clothes and it's completely acceptable.  "Oh I see you're wearing baggy low rise pants and an over-sized cardigan--are you shopping impaired?" Nope. It just means I'm in a relationship.
I'm wondering what else I can get away with.

I think a lady is able to get away with even more when she is married. I have not only taken over Jared's closet but also his razor, deodorant, hats, toothbrush, and t-shirts. I call this the husband style. Of course, he thinks it's adorable.  But don't ask him.

On an unrelated note, Chunky-the-puppy turned 1 on St. Patrick's Day. He thinks he's a lap dog. Please imagine a 65 lb clumsy meatloaf trying to cuddle on a tiny love seat.

Works cited:  jeans (old navy); shirt (h&m); cardigan & shoes (thrift)

black parade

Music is part of my morning routine.  On those mornings that My Chemical Romance and the Creep video by The Lonely Island make it into my groove, taking pictures is a major task for Jared.  The pictures that didn't make the cut are ones with T-Rex arms and zombie faces.

In all things fashion, I'm seriously in love with cut-off shorts.  These I'm wearing I did myself.  It's the closest to DIY I can do; the gods of craft do not smile on me. I tried to make a headband once, but it ended up looking like a kindergarten Thanksgiving project.


What are some of the things you do as your getting dressed that give you inspiration? 

works cited:  shoes (xxi); shorts (DIY, thrift); jacket (jcpenny); shirt (thrift)

break

Vacation:  a period of suspension of work, study, or other activity, usually used for rest, recreation, or travel; recess or holiday.

I had the blessed privilege of going home with a friend for a couple of days to vacate life; and when I say vacate, I mean his literally lives in the middle of nowhere. It was perfect. 
That splendid little mini horse you see is Sir Jeffery, also known as the current joy of my life.

I spent St. Paddy's in Chicago with two of my besties from school. Leah and I have matching "snaggle tooth" necklaces from H&M. They're so stinkin' cute. I'm loving the "nature" and "earth" trends for spring, especially in accessories.

I'm leaving for Tennessee today to see my family and friends from "down yonder." Road trip part deux begins now with the husband. 

polka dot.

 

Does any of you have that one time that transitions all seasons? Mine is this polka dot dress. A $4 thrift find.....I'll pause for gasps and applause. 

I'm not sure whether it's the simplicity of the print or flattering silhouette, but get ready to see remixes on this one. I actually wore this to my husband's birthday dinner so if you're still looking for date night ideas, the polka dot dress comes highly recommended. 

Works Cited:  dress (thrift); cardigan (jcrew); shoes (???)

Road trip

We're headed to Chicago!!!

business

How I am supposed to get any work finished?

Seriously, look at those faces. Too much cuteness for one household.
Finals week is almost over, which means I can return to shopping, posing, and blogging.  For some reason, my graduate program could care less about my need for retail therapy and picture parades of my latest conquests.  (If I only I could get paid to do this!)

Since my last post, I have experienced 3 out of 4 seasons in a week. Therefore, I decided it was time to do the great winter-to-spring closet transition. I would post a picture, but still too embarrassed about the state in which I left my bedroom/closet. I looked at my clothing rack for the blog-post-line-up, and I'm officially obsessed with stripes, floral's, and polka-dots.

Coming soon:  the greatest $4 thrift find.
 

swapped

I rarely back down from a dare so when Lindsay said, "Make it work," I couldn't refuse.  True to 5-year-old's and fairytales, I think I have the most fun when playing dress up with my girlfriends.  So much more imagination with 2 sets of eyes.

A typical day with Marshmallowsilk consists of my room being covered with explosions from my closet mixed in with her treasures found from previous thrifting adventures.  When I see whatever Lindsay is wearing, my first thought is always, "Yeah she did!" Shopping with her is creative rejuvenation.  When I first saw this dress, I didn't think I could make it work because the structure and neckline swallow petite frames.
Therefore only one thing could be done.....

I put my thang down, flipped it and reversed it.

Yes, I'm actually wearing the dress backwards. I think Kris Kross might have been onto something.

I'm wearing:

{dress:  swapped; shoes, belt, clutch, & umbrella:  thrift; hat:  family heirloom}

See more from my muse at Marshmallowsilk.... for those who dare, she's worth the follow.

coming soon

My first swap post ever with Marshmallowsilk.

Need a vintage fix of classic dresses and pillbox hats? Stay tuned.