Taylor Swift: Blank Space Inspired Fashion Part I

Mondays don't have to be the worst day in the week, especially when Yahoo! decides to accidentally release Taylor Swift's newest music video for 'Blank Space', a day early.

In the video, you'll see over 10 different outfit changes, all inspired by elements from two of the most fashion-forward eras: the 1920s and 1960s. From the 20s, Taylor borrows glamour + Art Deco, and from the 60s, bright pastels + color blocking. Definitely swoon-worthy, right?

Stay tuned for my next post with more 'Blank Space' outfit inspiration!

1. Beaded Jumpsuit via H&M $129
2. Art Deco Hair Pins via ModCloth $7.99
3. Rhinestone Cocktail Ring via Forever 21 $4.90
4. Drop Earrings via Givenchy at Nordstrom $48
5. 'Dubonnet' Lipstick via MAC at Nordstrom $16
6. Long Lace Dress via H&M $50
7. Sparkling Stiletto Sandal via COACH at Nordstrom $248
8. 'Valentine' Nail Polish via Revlon at Ulta $4.99

Anthropologie 'Strata' Dress Dupe

A few weeks ago, I spotted Anthropologie's 'Strata' dress on Instagram. It was everything I wanted-- black and white, short, and most importantly... it had stripes on it. There was, however, one small problem. It was $198. Lucky for me, during Memorial Day weekend, I came across this dress by Bar III at Macy's. It was originally $79, and I got for $60 with a coupon. Later that day, I decided to find it online, to see if I could get it for cheaper. Macy's had it listed on their website for a little over $40... nearly 50% off! I took it in, got the discount, and never looked back.
The dress is currently $64.99, but if you're a Macy's cardholder, there are always coupons. Always! Especially here.
Good luck, and may all of your striped-dress dreams be fulfilled. :)

Camel Trend

If you search the keywords, "camel trend", you'll find articles dating back to 2009 (and possibly before). In the fashion world, that's pretty far back, considering how the life of a trend is usually no longer than a few seasons, with two or three being the maximum. When styles stick around for as long as the camel one has, they become a classic.

Paired with hues of black, white, ivory, and peach, camel can instantly add an effortless, yet sophisticated vibe to any outfit. Here are my recommended items for incorporating camel into your wardrobe, as we transition from winter to spring:

1. Wool Coat via Aritzia $250
2. Suede Boots via H&M $59.95
3. Danielle Nicole Crossbody Bag via Nordstrom $58
4. Oversized Round Glasses via Forever 21 $5.80
5. Suit Pants via H&M $34.95
6. Leopard Print Interior Sunglasses via Nordstrom $22
7. Camden Tote via Madewell $188
8. V-Neck Top via H&M $9.95

Dusty Lavender Sweater

sweater: Bobeau via Nordstrom Rack (gifted from R) //jeggings: TJ Maxx //necklace: Forever 21 (gifted from K) //eye rings: Charming Charlie (gifted by G's sister, B) and Moorea Seal //bracelet: made it myself //cross-body bag: Michael by Michael Kors //booties: Tildon via Nordstrom

This past Christmas, my stylish BFF, R, gifted me this sweater. Dusty lavender isn't a color I'd usually reach for, but after trying it on, I came to really love it. To complete the look, I piled on my latest obsessions: gold jewelry, black accessories with gold hardware (e.g., the cross-body bag, and booties), and black jeggings.

Layering with Chambray

chambray shirt: Urban Outfitters (old) //sweater: Nordstrom B.P. (no longer available)//eye ring: Moorea Seal //thumb ring: Charming Charlie //necklace: Nordstrom (similar here) //sunglasses: Moorea Seal //jeggings: Jolt via Nordstrom B.P.

Confession: I've been terrible at keeping a consistent blogging schedule lately because I've been exhausted with work. I took these outfit photos last weekend, and finally got around to editing them yesterday. Before I started my job, I thought to myself, "Hah, blogging can't be that hard on top of a job. I'm going to work 40 hours, make at least three posts a week, and still be able to 'have it all' (props to those who watched 30 Rock!)" Even though I've been doing it for years, I never really realized how much time it took to plan and execute a post. Being a perfectionist doesn't really help either... buuut as tired as I am at the end of the day, my love for blogging, and designing, and the  kind feedback I get from all of you (especially on here, and Instagram!) are the things that keep me going. So, thanks for the encouragement! Really. :)

I was excited to show you guys this post today because it's of an outfit I've been obsessed with lately. I've had this chambray shirt for a year or two, and haven't ever really styled it with anything besides black jeggings and tall boots, mostly because I was never a fan of the alternative-- layering with sweaters and sweatshirts. I felt like the look was too masculine for me, but recently, decided to give this trend another chance. I got this sweater for Christmas from my mom, and paired with the chambray shirt, and a few of my favorite gold accessories, the outfit suddenly became a million times more feminine. Talk about the impact of jewelry.

What are some of your favorite ways to wear chambray button-ups? And-- how do you balance work and blogging?

teacup: Starbucks 2013 holiday collection

Witch Fashion: Madison Montgomery

If you saw my last Witch Fashion post, you'll know that my favorite character in American Horror Story: Coven, is Zoe Benson. But someone I've come to develop a love/hate relationship with is Madison Montgomery, Emma Roberts' character. She's definitely a brat at times (OK-- all the time), but there are some instances where you, as a viewer, have no choice but to give her credit for being an absolute genius.

Aside from her personality, Madison has an outrageous sense of fashion-- in a good way, of course. Being an ex-movie star, her outfits are always extravagant, yet, somehow, they're also wearable. Check out my picks below to achieve a Madison-inspired look:

1. Faux Fur Jacket via H&M $29
2. Triangle Pendant Necklace via Nordstrom $28
3. Metal Box Clutch via Nordstrom $52
4. Velvet Turban via Moorea Seal $32
5. Wide Brim Hat via Moorea Seal $30
6. Lace Headwrap via Urban Outfitters $18
7. Statement Necklace via Moorea Seal $34
8. Faux Leather Skater Skirt via Topshop at Nordstrom $76

Stacking Rings

I've been a fan of the stacking ring trend for quite some time, but just couldn't get the right look to match my simplistic taste... until now, that is. This year for Christmas, G's sister gifted me a set of three beautiful gold bands. They were perfect for stacking, and could all be worn at the same time without over-doing it.

Want to re-create this look? Check out a few of my favorite rings here, here, and here. The key is to stick no more than 2-3 bands.

Free People For Less

A few weeks ago, R and I were at the mall, casually walking around Forever 21. She spots this sweater, points to it, and says, "that looks like it could be a knockoff of something from Free People." Keep in mind, R never shops at Free People, nor does she ever visit their website. We both end up purchasing the sweater (for only $19 each!). 

Later that night, I decided to do some research. I ended up finding this American flag sweater, listed at $128 on the Free People website. As you can see, it's very similar to the one we purchased.

The sweater isn't on Forever 21's website yet, but it's definitely in stores. Get 'em while they're hot!

P.S., Is R a fashion genius, or is she a fashion genius?

Moto Jackets

moto jacket: H&M $18 SALE //t-shirt: Crazy Shirts //necklace: Nordstrom B.P. //skirt: Brandy Melville //tights: Target //Ring: Moorea Seal

I usually don't like to spend money on myself this time of year, but made an exception for this moto jacket. I've had my eye on it for months, and when I saw that had been marked down from its original price of $50, to $18, I didn't even think twice to snag it.

My plan is to style it with darker pieces, like the skirt you see here, and my favorite pair of black combat boots.

Feline Friday // 1

Guys... I'm starting a new column about one of my favorite topics: cats! Today's post (week 1) will highlight a few of my favorite cat things. I don't necessarily own everything on this list, but I've definitely been eyeing a lot of them, especially those cat eye sunglasses. I wish they came in black!

The photo above is of my cat brother, Oliver. Isn't he sweet?

1. Guys Can Be Cat Ladies Too via Amazon -- Got this book for G for his birthday. He loved it!
2. 'Little Cats Midi Ring' via Urban Outfitters
3. Seychelle's 'Tell Me More' Flat -- Check out my DIY post on how to make these here!
4. Fe NY 'Cat's Eye Sunglasses' via Nordstrom
5. 'Delicate Open Ring' via Urban Outfitters

Brandy Melville Jewelry-- Is it Worth Purchasing?

Ah, Brandy Melville. Having only been to this store twice, I've already developed a love-hate relationship with them. I first found out about this store through Instagram and paid their Honolulu location a visit while on vacation there this past summer. My first impression of the store was positive. They had laid-back, rustic aesthetic, and friendly staff to go with it.

I think my problem was that I got too excited, too fast. Everything was extremely cheap (who could pass up $3-$5 for a dainty gold ring?!), and the cute designs didn't help. I ended up purchasing a flowy, navy tank, a necklace, and way too many rings. My total came out to be just under $20. Not bad at all.

When I got back from vacation, I started wearing the rings right away, and also gave two to my friends, K1 and K2. After a about a month and a half of daily wear, the rings began to turn a copper shade, and some even began to rust.

A wise person once said, "You get what you pay for." Well, that was definitely true for these rings. As for the necklace, it's still OK. I'm thinking the main issue may be water exposure... but who has time to take off all their rings, every time they wash their hands? Not me.

Just so that I have it written out, and just so that it's clear: No, I would not recommend purchasing rings at Brandy Melville.

Keep your eyes peeled for a Brandy Melville clothing review!

5 Unique Hairstyles for Second Day Hair

After meeting so many stylish women at Blogshop, I decided that was time to add to my second day hairstyle repertoire. Here are five I'm hoping to try in the future:

1. Floral Accents
2. Knotted Ponytail
3. Braided Crown (my favorite!)
4. Braided Headband
5. Tucked Bun




images via 1/2/3/4/5, edited by SWEATshirt DRESSshirt

Witch Fashion: Zoe Benson

A TV show I've been really into lately is American Horror Story: Coven. The storyline (although sick at times) is incredibly addicting, and the characters never disappoint when it comes to being fashionable. Zoe, my favorite character, was the primary inspiration for the items in this post.

1. H&M Wool Hat // 2. Topshop Hinge Clutch Bag //3. Vince Camuto 'Bullet Proof' Ring //4. F21 Heirloom Faux Gemstone Necklace //5. Loeffler Randall Fenton Bootie //6. H&M Biker Jacket

Fall Photoshoot

chambray shirt: Urban outfitters //white t-shirt: Eddie Bauer //jeggings: TJ Maxx //nail polish: 'And a Cherry on Top' SEPHORA by OPI

To carry on with the tradition of having a photo shoot every season, my friends K1, K2, and I headed north of Seattle a few weeks ago, where fall had completely taken over. We ended up on a long road with a row of trees on each side. Most of the leaves had changed colors, and there were plenty on the ground for endless authentic shots. The air was crisp, but not too cold. The day couldn't have been more perfect.

In addition to the photo shoot, my friends and I had planned to have a Girls Weekend. We always joke about having "drunken nights at Rock 'n Sushi" (gold star to those that can tell me the movie that quote is from), even though none of us drink. We ended up actually going to sushi, and afterwards, rented Warm Bodies, which we figured out, wasn't our favorite movie. A part of me wishes there could be more weekends like this. But then I realized, if that were the case, I probably wouldn't be able to appreciate them as much as I do.

boots left: Frye //boots right: TJ Maxx

photo credit goes to K1 and K2.

Orange Inspiration

In the fall, we tend to see a whole lot of orange, whether it is in pumpkins, leaves, or the flames of a cozy fire. Here are my favorite picks for this season's star color:

1. Color Hit Nail Polish in 'Trick or Treat' via Sephora $5 2. Quay Eastside Shades via Nasty Gal $40 3. Leather Bracelet via H&M $13 4. Gloriosa Bowl via Anthropologie $14 5. 4-Pack Pumpkin Spice Candles via Target $39.99 6. Mercury Glass Votive Holder via Kirklands $4.99 7. Orange Ammunition Earrings via Jewel Mint $40 8. Geometric Leather Necklace via Etsy $44

Lunch Date Attire

The beginning of fall is one of my favorite times of the year to dress for. The temperature is just perfect, with it not being too cold or too hot. Pictured here is an outfit I wore to lunch with my friends K and K. I opted for a leather bomber, with a breezy peplum top, and incredibly comfortable jeggings.

leather jacket: Sparkle and Fade via Urban Outfitters //peplum top: Lush via Nordstrom B.P. //jeggings: STS Blue via Nordstrom B.P. // necklace: Nordstrom B.P. //nail polish: 'And a Cherry On Top' SEPHORA by OPI

Bridesmaids Movie Inspiration

blazer: Frenchi via Nordstrom B.P. //tank: silence + noise via Urban Outfitters (old) //jeans: Vigoss Studio via Nordstrom B.P. //rings: kiosk on Hawaii and Brandy Melville //cat necklace: Gifted from G //nail polish: 'And a Cherry on Top' via SEPHORA by OPI

I'm almost embarrassed to admit the number of times I've seen Bridesmaids. Ever since I saw it in theaters, I've been in love with the storyline, characters, and humor, but most of all, Annie Walker's (Kristen Wiig's character) wardrobe. Annie debuts her signature look (the inspiration for this outfit post) in one of the first scenes wearing a short dress paired with a fitted blazer, and doesn't cease to disappoint with similar looks throughout the film.

The Perfect Boot

top: Kensie //jeggings: Cisono via TJ Maxx //rainboots: Hunter //rings: Brandy Mellville and c/o Kitsch

Earlier this year, G surprised me with Hunter boots for my birthday. I loved everything about them, and couldn't wait to wear them. There was just, however, one small problem-- they were a little too loose around my calves. I somehow always run into this problem when trying on boots, and over the years, have complied the perfect list of solutions. If you struggle this problem too, consider the following tips:

• Pair your boots with a pair of long pants, knee-high socks, and/or a fleece liner for extra padding.

• With Hunter boots, check out the shorter version instead of the tall. Sometimes the shorter version, even though they may not be narrower, can have the appearance of being narrower because there is less material.

• Look into children's sizing. For Hunter boots, Aside from the smaller size and lower price, the only difference between the children's boots and the adult ones are the reflecting patches in the back of each boot.

• Do a lot of lunges to get ripped calves (just kidding... but really).

Have a problem with boots being too narrow? A lot of brands also make wide-calf sizing. Be sure to check it out!