Sunday, August 7, 2011

Introduction

Hello!

The purpose of my blog is to provide an outlet for thoughtful self expression. For me, that outlet has been through fashion and more specifically: how to create, maintain, and evolve one’s personal style. I thought the best way to introduce myself and to welcome you to my blog is to describe who I am through my favorite wardrobe pieces. Here goes!

1. Skinny jeans

(J Brand, City of Others, 7 for all Mankind, Joe’s Jeans)

I gravitate towards dark washes with minimal whiskering though I also love grey jeans. I do have a few boot cut and even wide leg styles but they are worn far less than my skinnies. I prefer J brand most often. No fuss, simple clean styling with no visible or obnoxious logos, bling, or dyes. I’m fairly direct and to the point in life too.

2. GAP long sleeve T’s in black, white, and grey.



These are truly foundation pieces in my wardrobe. I pretty much wear these year around – as a base layer or solo. Wonderful blank canvas for accessorizing or leaving as is for a minimalist impression. I try to be versatile and adaptable in work and play.

3. Long sweater cardigans

(J. Crew, Twelfth St. by Cynthia Vincent, Magaschoni)

Mid-weight cashmere is my preference but I also love regular ol’ cotton and merino wool. My skin can be sensitive and I’ve found natural fibers feel the best. Layering is truly a must here in the Pacific NW and I rarely leave the house without a cardigan in hand or on me in some way. Practical but effortless and still stylish. Can be dressed up or down. Though I’ve been told my sweater/cardigan collection does border on “granny style” I refuse to give up these warm and cozy beauties.

4. Cross-body leather handbags

(Left to right: Christopher Kon, Hype, BCBG Max Azria, Rachel Nasvik)

I might be in the minority here but I find entirely black handbags sad – they depress me. Don’t get me wrong, I love black as a color (or lack of color, however you view it) but perhaps it’s because the vibe becomes too heavy for every day. I tend to stick with a single handbag through at least an entire season so it must be in the neutral color family but I rarely choose black. I prefer shades of grey or charcoal in wintery months and cognac or taupe for warmer months. A cross-body strap is essential for me, love to be hands free and feel it’s easier on my shoulders and back.

5. Boots

(Left to right: MIA taupe ankle boots, J. Crew, MIA Limited Edition, Enzo Angiolini, HOPE Stockholm)

Love boots – nearly all lengths, styles, and colors. My favorites are knee highs and ankle booties. Most of my boots have modest heels – 3 inches and under. I do plenty of walking and need shoes that go the distance without sacrificing style. I do own a chic knee-high black leather pair with a point toe and stiletto heel that is sexy and elegant but they rarely make it out of my closet as they aren’t a workhorse but a show pony. But every women deserves to have show pony or two in their closet ;)

6. Flats

(Bottom left to right: Arche, Barney’s COOP, ALDO, Michael by Michael Kors, Cydwoq, B. Makowsky)

I think you’re getting point that I like stylish and comfy shoes. I love flats for day and night but they should have some sole support. If not, we might as well be walking around bare foot! Here’s where I like to play with patterns and texture – love leopard and floral prints on flats as well as bright colors. However, I still most often default to classics colors and styles that go with everything like in neutral colors of taupe, black, and navy.

7. Watches

(Caravelle by Bulova, Sundance Jewelry leather wrap watch, MIO Motiva sports watch

I do not own a vast or expensive watch collection but this is the only piece of jewelry I wear every single day. I grew up understanding the importance of punctuality and always wore a watch. I still wear a watch every day (though I’m not always as punctual as I should be now).

8. Scarves

(J. Crew, MNG)

Silk, cashmere, or soft wool I love them all. I am usually more cold than warm and wearing a scarf provides any needed pop of color or pattern to an outfit as well as warmth. These are usually what I wear instead of jewelry.

9. Button up shirts
  

(Left to right: D&G Dolce and Gabanna, Nanette Lepore, Gibson, J. Crew, Just a Cheap Shirt, J. Crew, Just a Cheap Shirt)

I love loose, flowing silk or chiffon floral prints and striped boyfriend fit dress shirts. The romance and casual refinement of these work well with other items in my wardrobe. They make me feel both feminine and tomboy at the same time. It's a good mix and its fun to juxtapose with.

10. Latest obsession

 
My Vince leather jacket which I purchased from the wonderful miss sophie is what I’ve been wearing to death. I piece it with everything from jeans and T’s to floral dresses and heels to shorts and dress tops. This leather is silky soft and the chocolate color goes with everything. I hope this item will be with me for many years to come.

What are your signature pieces and how do they represent you?

Thanks for stopping by and hope to “see” you again soon!