The Crop Top

Praline Paradise

Shop The Look:

Crop Sweater, New: Exact Match

Leopard Shoes, New: Exact Match

Leopard Leggins, Old: Similar Match

Gold Leaf Bracelet, Old: Similar Match

Crop tops have been everywhere this year from Spring to Summer and now into Fall and Winter, the shrunken top is here to stay, at least for a little while longer. I'm not typically one for trends, I like to stay tried and true to the lady like classics, but I did want to give this style a trip around the block to see what all the hype is about. Personally, I am not a mid-riff shower, so I wanted to pair the LC Lauren Conrad sweater with a higher waisted pant. The praline color blended perfectly with the leopard pants I had. This was a look I wore around the house while tending to some cleaning. This sweater would also look great tucked into a skirt

Bundle Up

There's a chill in the air

Shop the Look:

Riding Boots, New: Exact Match

Boot Socks, New: Exact Match

Red Puffer Vest, Old: Similar Match

Red Circle Scarf, Old: Similar Match

White Knit Hat, Old: Similar Match

White Sparkle Gloves, Old: Similar Match

White Sweater, Old: Simialr Match

Happy November everyone! Where has this year gone?? Time seems to fly by and with that the cooler weather season is coming upon us. Now that we are officially in November, I think it is the perfect time to start thinking about those cozy little accessories like scarves, gloves, and hats. Not that I particularly look forward to it, but it is best to be prepared. One look I love is a bright red anything with creamy winter white. Here I bundled up in a  Woolrich red puffer vest and accessorized it with a winter white sweater from Banana Republic, hat, gloves, and a circle scarf all from Mark. LC Lauren Conrad riding boots finish off the relaxed look with some creamy white boot socks.

Celadon Green

Grace Kelly, Tippi Hedren, and Edith Head

Shop The Look:

Green Skirt, New: Exact Match

Green Blouse, Old: Similar Match

Brown Top Handle Hand Bag, Old: Similar Match

Nude Heels, Old: Similar Match

It need not be said how much I truly adore this vintage inspired outfit. My heart expands two sizes just thinking about it. The look started with the skirt from Modcloth. As soon as I saw the skirt I knew I had to have it. Grace Kelly and Tippi Hedren instantly came to my mind from the wonderful creations of Edith Head while working with Alfred Hitchcock. The skirt is a sea-glass green soft wool blend with a matching belt. This midi style screams 1950s and is quite the eye catcher. To compliment the look I had in mind, I choose a chiffon green blouse with pearls attached from LC Lauren Conrad. The pearls add just the right amount of sophistication and glamor to the outfit. The jewelry was all about gold and pearls to keep the vintage vibe and also to replicate the specific image I had in my mind of the two leading ladies who inspired this look. To finish off the outfit, nude heels from LC and a brown top handle hand bag, which reminded me of Miss Hedren's ensemble. On a side note, what a beautiful Fall day it was to capture this lovely outfit. The air was warm and the leaves seemed to glow in the golden sunshine. Who's with me in not wanting Fall to end!

“Hitchcock’s very own Edna Mode, Edith Head, created the green suit. It’s based on her own design for Grace Kelly as Lisa Fremont in Rear Window (1954) – a celadon green I-line suit worn with white halterneck blouse. The Rear Window fabric is completely different, shantung silk instead of wool, and the ensemble is comprised of a two piece jacket and skirt instead of a dress and jacket. The similarities come from Head’s insistence on simplicity; like The Birds’ suit it ages so well because there is little to date it. Hedren’s suit is shorter and boxier than Kelly’s, superficially ‘Chanel like’, though in fact most resembles couturier Digby Morton’s early work (circa 1950s), except in a less luxuriant fabric”

— Clothes On Film

Sparkle and Shine

Getting Ready for the Holidays

I adore anything that has sparkle or shine to it. The luxe detail brings one thing to mind for me, the holiday season, which is getting closer as we speak. Excited yet? I know I sure am. The outfit is perfect for any upcoming holiday events and will be sure to get you noticed. I went for a neutral gray palette with some silver sparkles and metallic shoes. Silver belles anyone? The gorgeous chiffon skirt, which you may notice is the same one from my Mint To Be post, only in a different color. The luxe sparkly sweater and metallic shoes lend that holiday vibe that I am so looking forward to. The I Love Lucy clutch was a gift from my grandmother when she visited the I Love Lucy museum a few years back. She loves the show, as do I, and this was the perfect gift.

Shop The Look:

LC Lauren Conrad Chiffon Skirt, New: Exact Match

I Love Lucy Clutch, Old: Similar Match

Target Silver Heels, Old: Similar Match

Forever 21 Sequin Sweater, Old: Similar Match

Snake Charmer

And Cigarette Pants

“Like everything in fashion your clothes must always give you the feeling that they are very easy to wear”

— Christian Dior

As Dior said, your clothes must always give the feeling that they are very easy to wear. This outfit, comprised of a cable knit sweater, cigarette pants, fawn heels, and a cinched snake belt are extremely comfortable and easy to wear. A fantastic office outfit I might add. Cigarette pants, or slim-fit pants, are my essential go-to fit. Nothing else looks good on me except these. The tight fit of the straight leg and opening at the bottom compliment my figure since my hips are on the narrower side. These are great for anyone with a "boyish" figure meaning your waist and hips are generally close in size. Now for the details of the outfit. The sweater has lace inserts toward the top that lend to the prettiest lady like effect. The gold snake belt simply dazzles against any color and helps liven up any outfit. It's a fun detail to add interest and keep the waist line visible. It can also be used as a regular pant belt or ever as a necklace or bracelet. The versatility make it worth its weight in gold. I love the green clutch with gold accents and how its a nice day time size to carry all a woman's essentials in.

Shop The Look:

Mark Snake Belt, Old: Similar

Jessica Simpson Fawn Heels, Old: Similar

Banana Republic Navy Slim Fit Pants, Old: Similar

Lauren Conrad Cable Knit Sweater, Old: Similar

Target Green Clutch, Old: Similar

Layering

And a little hat action too

Cool mornings and warm afternoons mean one thing, layering. My go to layering look is a buttons down, light sweater, and either skirt or blue jeans. Here I opted for a skirt while the weather is still nice. Black bow heels and an oxblood bag tie the Fall colors all together. Want to try something new? Try a hat! I'm all for vintage hats and love how this one has that vintage feel to it. I also wanted to keep my waist visible so I threw on a pretty bronze colored belt. This look would be great for an informal Thanksgiving dinner.

Shop The Look:

Sweater, Old: Similar Match

Blue Oxford Button Down, Old: Similar Match

Skirt, Old: Similar Match

Shoes, Old: Similar Match

Hand Bag, Lulu's: Exact Match

Belt, Old: Similar Match

Hounds Tooth

Check Mate

Fall is my favorite season and I simply cannot say that enough it seems. I love to throw on a light weight sweater with a skirt and stroll around town while getting my errands done. A favorite pattern of mine to break out once Fall hits is hounds tooth, characterized by a broken check pattern, usually in black and white. There is nothing more chic than classic black and white. You cannot go wrong with it. Throw on some black heels with a black hand bag and you're good to go. Both my shoes and bag have a bow on them. A nice little detail to keep things girly.

Shop The Look:

Sweater, Old: Similar Match

Skirt, Old: Similar Match

Hand Bag, Lulu's: Exact Match

Shoes, Old: Similar Match

Black and Tan

Cozy Chic

On a warm Fall afternoon, I cozied up in a tan plaid scarf and my LC Lauren Conrad blazer. I'm also completely in love with my new LC riding boots, perfect for the Fall and Winter months. If you live in the North Eastern part of the country, then you know how important a good pair of boots are! I love the black and white stripe look for an ever fabulously chic look. A classic that will never go out of style. Toss on some black pants and you're good to go!

LC Lauren Conrad Ponte Blazer: Exact Match

LC Lauren ConradRiding Boots: Exact Match

LC Lauren ConradSolid Knit Pants: Exact Match

Black and White Stripped Top: Similar Match

Plaid Scarf: Similar Match

Mint To Be

Fall Pastels

“Individuality will be always one of the conditions of real elegance. Try to understand well what is your personality and never forget that individuality does not mean eccentricity.No elegant woman follows fashion slavishly. ”

— Christian Dior

One thing about Fall fashion that never fails is the darkening of the colors. There is good reason for this, but why not lighten up a bit? I love pastel colors year round and how they brighten the sea of dark fabrics. I truly fell in love with this outfit and how it stands out from the crowd. I would describe my style as romantic, feminine, and vintage. This certainly feels very romantic and feminine to me with the creamy white chiffon skirt and the mint green sweater. The cuteness of the deer print makes me smile. I matched the fawn heels with the image of the deer. The shoes blend in with the lightness of the coloring. I wanted to keep an airy feeling about the outfit and went with an taupe envelope quilted clutch with bow detailing.

LC Lauren Conrad Midi skirt: Exact Match

Mint Green Animal Print Sweater: Exact Match

Taupe Heels: Similar Match

Enjoying one of the loveliest times of the year.

“Autumn...the year's last, loveliest smile."  William Cullen Bryant

Fall Floral and Dapper Dan

Simple Sophistication

“After women, flowers are the most lovely thing God has given the world.”

— Christian Dior

I never tire of floral prints throughout the entire year. I love any kind of girly detail and this outfit symbolizes just that. I'm carrying my new purse with the bow detail and this LC Lauren Conrad dress from two years ago. Shopping my own closet lets me re-wear some of my old favorites with new accessories such as the purse, jewelry, or shoes. Speaking of, the shoes, from Modcloth, have a very retro feel to them with their velvet texture and cute little kitten heel.

I shot these photos up at Cinemark theaters before Justin and I saw a movie. The gorgeous weather and beautiful sunset, along with the colorful leaves, gave such a lovely glow that made it feel amazing to be alive. There was a pleasant little breeze as well that lent a nice movement to my hair and dress.

I had to get a photo of Justin and I with the pretty leaves behind us. Let's also take a look at his outfit, which I think is a nice date night outfit for any casual guy. Dark denim jeans, a button down, and brown shoes. Simple and well put together.

Ready, Set, Relax

Easy Breezy Chiffon

Oh the golden days of Fall. I look forward to these days all year long and cherish every second of them that I possibly can. A slight chill in the air, yet still warm enough in the afternoons to not wear a jacket. When I want to feel relaxed while working around the house an outfit I like to wear is a chiffon top, leggins, and embellished flats, these being sparkle. Its an easy breezy type of outfit that simply has no fuss to it. This is a great look for still looking chic while doing chores and what not. You'll see me in this until the weather truly turns on the frightful side, but until then, when I want to feel relaxed, this is a go to. If you are not one to wear leggings, then I would wear jeans. Normally, jeans would be my choice, but I like to break up the monotonous pattern of wearing jeans constantly. Variety is the spice of life as they say.

Breezy Top: Similar Match

Printed Leggins: Similar Match

Sparkle Flats: Similar Match

Coat Check

Fall Coat Guide 2014

Why don't you get out of that wet coat and into a dry martini?

“This is the garment that has kept the original function of clothes—to keep you warm. Coats can either be fitted or loose, whichever is your personal choice. But above everything they must be practical. Practical in color and practical in style. ”

— Christian Dior

An absolute favorite of mine, the Pendleton '49er jacket. This jacket truly never goes out of style with its retro-chic plaid pattern and roomy patch pockets. Made of 100% virgin wool.

The Pendleton 49er Jacket: Similar Match

Another staple I keep seeing is the military look. While that's not necessarily my style, I can't deny my love for this coat in an olive brown shade. The length and tie accentuate my figure while keeping me warm.

Olive Jacket: Similar Match

The famous trench coat. A classic style that will be forever chic. All I need is a fedora and Humphrey Bogart and Ingrid Bergman in Casablanca come to mind. Well here's looking at a beautiful coat for Fall.

Tan Trench Coat: Similar Match

While pink was the essential color for coats last year, this year I'm forecasting that light blue will be it. What's not to love from this Pendleton design? Made from merino wool, this lightweight jacket has the perfect pop of color to keep you feeling fresh.

Light Blue Pendleton Jacket: Exact Match

For all of you lovelies that live in a warmer climate this light weight lace bomber jacket is for you. Add some feminine flair to your style while keeping the chill off of your skin. The delicate blush color fits right in with my taste of keeping some pastel colors alive in the Fall.

LC Lauren Conrad Lace Bomber Jacket: Exact Match

Last but not least, the outfit I wore during this photo shoot. A nautical sweater from Banana Republic. Skinny dark wash jeans from LC Lauren Conrad. Lastly, candy apple red pointed toe flats from Modcloth. Just because the weather is changing does not mean my nautical flair must as well. Simply update the look with heavier fabrics and richer materials.

Anchor Sweater: Similar Match

Candy Apple FLats: Exact Match

Dark Wash Skinny Jeans: Similar Match

Lace and Leopard Oh My

Day to Night with Simple Swaps

As noted before, my love for leopard prints only intensifies once the fall and winter months start to approach. This outfit comprises of simple, classic, and timeless pieces that when put together look effortless. The base is a lovely cream sweater and leopard print skirt. For daytime I chose a lace bomber jacket and flats for running around town doing errands. Once night approaches, swap out the lace bomber for a black blazer and heels. I stuck with leopard heels and really fancied this hi-low blazer (higher cut in the back, longer in the front) since it balances out my petite frame. The jewelry, a tortoise shell watch, long diamond pendant, and crystal stone earrings stayed the same for both outfits. It just goes to show how a simple swap, here being the jacket and shoes, updates a classic outfit from day to night.

• Lace bomber jacket: LC Lauren Conrad
• Cream sweater: Kohls
• Leopard print skirt: Banana Republic
• Leopard flats: LC Lauren Conrad
• Leopard heels: DSW
• Hi-low blazer: LC Lauren Conrad
• Watch: Carolton's Rehoboth Beach
• Necklace: Joan River's collection from my mom
• Earrings: hand made

All You Need is Love

Our 3rd Wedding Anniversary

“Love is the emblem of eternity, it confounds all notion of time, effaces all memory of a beginning, all fear of an end”

— Germaine De Stael

When I awoke on the morning of our anniversary, I was greeted by a lovely bag on our dinning room table. Now, the 3rd anniversaries symbol is leather and Justin did quite good if you ask me. His gift to me was two leather handbags wrapped in the cutest polka dot paper with a card nestled on top.

I'm quite in love with these purses because of the great detailing they have. I'm a sucker for a structured top handle bag and the little gold bow accent gives the purse the perfect finishing touch.

When Justin arrived home he gave me these beautiful roses and told me the meaning he thought of behind the three colors. Going from white, to pink, and finally red, the colors represent the deepening of our love over the years. How romantic! I was also surprised by the little snack he got for me. Cinnamon sugar covered almonds. An absolute favorite of mine to snack on.

I really could not have asked for a better anniversary. Between our time in the Finger Lakes to our little celebration at home, everything was perfect and I feel completely lucky to have someone so special and loving as my husband.

Chelsea always likes to get in on the action!

A Feather in Your Cap

Hat's Off to You

If there's one thing I love it's vintage, especially a good vintage hat. As you've seen with Summer, I had some various hats to choose from. Now that Fall has arrived, it's time to switch from straw to velvet, and let's take a moment to look at that fantastic feather! This dress from Modcloth has an amazing beaded bib neckline, quite glamorous, and the prettiest shade of green to compliment the Fall and Winter months. The sparkly purple shoes from DSW keep the glamor going; a great color to pair with green, wine, yellow, and orange. The vintage clutch also has some exquisite bead work on it with a pattern reminding me of a peacock. The egg shaped bracelet I'm wearing is a replica of Jackie Kennedy's. The colors on it remind me so much of Fall. I must say, this outfit made me feel as if I were in the 1940s and I loved every single moment of it.

A look at the back of the hat reveals a lovely little bow.

Hues of Harvest

Color Course

I've been snuggling up in some cozy sweaters lately and this cropped one fits perfectly into the new season. It should be mentioned that it tucks quite nicely into any skirt. No extra fabric to bunch up and look messy. The wine colored faux leather skirt adds some nice texture to any outfit and brings a sense of fun and youthfulness. As mentioned before, the leopard shoes blend in perfectly to match the color pallet of cream, wine, pink, red, and mustard yellow. The idea here is to add some texture and color into your Fall wardrobe. I love a simple black dress or outfit, but try to incorporate other rich colors once the weather turns cooler.  The shoes, skirt, and sweater are from LC Lauren Conrad.

This purse, from Carolton's in Rehoboth Beach, is the quint essential Fall hand bag. Perfect with its mustard yellow color, brown and black trim, and medium size so as not to over whelm, but big enough to carry necessary items in.

Pointelle Polish

Lovely Leopard

As the crisp cooler air arrives its imperative to start dressing appropriately. Fall usually has some cooler days mixed in with some warmed ones. To keep warm and cool try picking out an outfit that is made from pointelle fabric. Its a little heavier to provide some warmth, but also the open stitching allows for air flow. Another Fall must and one of my favorites, leopard anything. This luxurious neutral animal print pairs well with so many various color combinations and looks lovely to boot. The dress and pointed flats are from LC Lauren Conrad, the clutch from Target, pearl necklace and earrings from my mom. 

Alternatively, for a different look with the same dress, keep your hair down in waves, add leopard heels instead of flats, and trade out the pearls for some diamonds. A new look with some simple swaps of accessories.

Fancy Floral

Dark Floral for Fall

This elegant outfit lets you bring fresh floral into Fall by darkening them up a bit. Add on a lace blazer, belted to keep your figure from hiding, some snazzy gold shoes, and you're set for a night out or a polished work friendly ensemble. The dress is from modcloth and the blazer from LC Lauren Conrad.

Comfortably Cozy

Fabulous faux fur and cognac boots

This outfit combines so many of my favorite Fall fashions. A light weight creamy white sweater, jeans, tall cognac boots, and a fabulous faux fur vest. Every part of this outfit has essential Fall items to keep you stylish, chic, and comfortably cozy. I wear these boots all the time throughout the Fall and Winter months. Nothing better to keep those tootsies warm while looking well put together. The cognac color compliments all other colors and goes with basically anything your heart desires. The faux fur vest, which I recently purchased on my vacation to Rehoboth Beach, keeps you feeling snug as a bug when those temperatures start to dip.

Pretty in Polka Dots

1950s chic

Can anyone say I Love Lucy?? As soon as I saw this dress it reminded me of the lovable red head who always seemed to get her zany self into a sneaky scheme. That by the way is my favorite show. I watch it constantly, almost every day. The classic fit and flare design with pretty polka dots looks straight out of the 1950s. The cream belt cinches in the waist, perfect for creating a nice figure. To complete the outfit are cream colored heels. The dress comes from Modcloth, an essential store for anyone looking for classic designs or vintage flair.

The baubles for this outfit include a pearl and multi-color stone necklace, a purple stone ring and pearl earrings accented in gold all belonging to my mother. My usual tennis bracelet and and rings round out the bunch.