Neutrals: Polka Dots & Leather

I'm slightly obsessed with collared shirts. They're just as easy to wear as any t-shirt but a lot more versatile. Here, I've dressed my grey micro polka dot collared shirt  down with some black denim pants and lace up boots (both from crossroads trading co.). The glasses are from Mark Ecko.

BUT what I'm most excited about in this outfit is my new brown leather BAG! I found it at a swap meet while spending time with my family during Easter weekend. It's huge and fits all of my school school stuff. The best part is that it only cost me $3, making it quite easily one of my greatest style finds so far :)

Happy Sunday everyone!

Backyard Fun

In honor of my wonderful visit home, I decided to pay homage to what seems like the constant pseudo summer climate which graces SoCal.

Complete with black cutoff jean shorts, a re-purposed over-sized white tee turned retro tank, and some high-top denim kicks, I was ready for a day of sun to work on my not-so-subtle tan lines.

Also, check out my new frames! Don't they say "Look, I'm intellectual, but I also like to have fun"?

Dressing Up Your Stripes

tweed blazer- (vintage) / striped shirt- (Foreign Exchange) / khakis- (Buffalo Exchange) / 

braided belt- (F21) / watch- (Casio) / clock necklace- (ASOS) / boots- (F21)

It's no secret I'm IN LOVE with stripes. Today, I decided to dress some of my stripes up with a tweed blazer, some khakis, my favorite pair of boots and a couple of accessories.

Interview Ready: An Opportunity for Self-Expression

shirt-buffalo exchange ($8)  /  belt- buffalo exchange ($5)  /  khaki- buffalo exchange ($16)                      watch ($15)  /  shoes- thrift store ($5)  /  bracelet- handmade (free!)


Today, I have an exciting interview for a position as contributing editor with a men's fashion and lifestyle magazine!

So, of course I had to put an outfit together that was both appropriate for an interview, but also representative of my aesthetic.

I started out with a blue pin stripe shirt that has a really cool collar detail (the whole collar trend is a favorite of mine at the moment).

Then, instead of pairing my shirt with regular khakis, I opted for this colored alternative. I feel that this deep maroon shade is colorful enough to add interest to an outfit but not so loud that it's distracting (I definitely don't want my colored pants to be the only impression I leave during the interview).

I finished off the look with some easy tan oxford shoes (it's best way to spruce up any look) and a couple accessories: a grey stretch belt with a leather detail, a black and gold watch, and a hand made bracelet.

I hope it goes to show that the key to a successful outfit, regardless of the occasion, is bringing forth your own personal style by celebrating your individuality and allowing your selection in apparel to be an opportunity for self-expression!

Sunday Casual

Woke up this morning feeling inspired by the weather which has been beautiful lately.


I decided that a sunny day calls for a sunny look.


The Breakdown:
Grey v-neck (tucked in)
Dark denim jean.
Brown loafers + light green socks.
Topped off with a fedora.

voilà!

Sleeves Aren't the only thing you can ROLL UP

Rolling up your sleeves is commonplace, whether you are in the office or out working in the heat. However, I'v noted a sort of equestrian trend recently involving rolled up pant cuffs and not just enough so that your pants don't drag against the floor, but well above the ankle. The outcome is similar to capri cut pants, but with more flexibility to roll the cuff up or down. 

I think it's a really nice way to highlight a high top shoe such as the boots I'm wearing above. It might also be an interesting way to introduce a colored or patterned sock

FYI: This blazer/coat is one of my favorite pieces...bought it at the thrift store for under $5! 

COLOR Story: Weekend Casual