winter maxi

Photographed by Rachel Laiche

During the summer months, I live and breathe maxi dresses.  Why not do the same during the frigid winter? Not only does it look effortless, it truly embodies simplicity as the ensemble almost requires no further thought. I snagged this amazing staple online from the Urban Outfitters sale section while unwittingly browsing through the site (I am disturbingly addicted to online shopping but that's a story I'm saving for another time) and knew that it would fit like a glove. From experience, I would say body-concious maxis possess this unusual tendency to hug every curve, smooth over any flaw, and elongate the body (obviously 4 inch platforms don't hurt either).  Incorporate loud accessories when wearing a monochromatic number such as the one above in order to transform the overall look. 

**Check out how I do my hair HERE.

I am wearing an H&M hat (similar), Urban Outfitters maxi, Turquoise slab necklace c/o Cara-- my roommate! (similar), ZARA wedges (old), Diesel Watch, Gorjana & Griffin ring, Etsy ring

XO, In

seeing spots

Photographed by In Park

Patterned tights have been absolutely one of my favorite trends this winter, polka dots in particular. I love the big spots which I felt balanced nicely with this basic shift dress from the Loft. The whimsical feel these tights give can automatically make any outfit that much more fun.

The ones I'm wearing were purchased at the wonderful South Moon Under, but I also happened to snag a great pair with smaller polka dots at none other than....Walmart. Yes I said it.

I am wearing an Ann Taylor Loft dress, Hue tights, Candies wedges (similar), Forever 21 necklace (similar), Nasty Gal bracelet (similar), Etsy bracelet (similar) 

XO, Rachel

pattern play & mixed metals

Photographed by Rachel Laiche

Feels good to be back blogging! First of all, thanks to Sarah Pelham for graciously lending us her camera temporarily-- the pictures turned out great.

I decided one of my new years resolutions is to always pick the riskier option when it comes to fashion (and start actually working out, but we know that's probably never going to happen). Why not start with something simple, like jewelry?  Mixing gold and silver is generally a no-no, but the subdued metallic hue of my t-shirt coupled with vibrant gold accessories prove to be nothing but complimentary.  Add embroidered jeans (a la Isabel Marant 'Renell'), and already I feel as if I've stepped outside of my comfort zone. 

My obsession with nail polish has subsided-- albeit slowly-- only to be replaced by my obsession with lipstick.  Darker shades have been heavily emphasized this season, fueled by the emergence of the unnecessarily ostentatious term, 'oxblood', to describe a simple shade of maroon.  MAC 'Media', a rich, red-plum matte, is incredibly versatile, as it can be worn with clothing of various color palettes.

I am wearing an Urban Outfitters top (similar), Urban outfitters jacket, Urban Outfitters jeans (similar), Dolce Vita 'Java' booties, Tobi necklace (similar), Anarchy street bracelet c/o David, Etsy ring, Gorjana & Griffin ring c/o David, Diesel watch, MAC 'Media' lipstick

XO, In

lucite

Photographed by Kendal Beecher

Lucite. Lucite. Lucite.  Strippers and bedroom negligee come to mind, but when done right, lucite can look tasteful; elegant, even.  Seen pervasively on the spring/summer 2013 runways from Valentino studded pointed toe pumps to evening clutches by Stella McCartney & Charlotte Olympia, lucite has continuously proved itself to remain a stylish element.  My take on lucite involves a thigh high slit and my trustworthy leather jacket.

I am wearing a Forever 21 leather jacket (similar), American Apparel cropped top, TJ Maxx scarf, Tobi skirt (similar), Jeffrey Campbell heels (in blue suede, black, or white), Free People & Etsy bracelets

XO, In

the return of the poncho

Photographed by Kendal Beecher

Ponchos have made a triumphant return and have earned its place amongst fall wardrobe staples. Gone are the days where ponchos meant immobility of your arms and an unflattering silhouette.  This billowy alternative to a cozy cardigan can be worn with your favorite pair of heels or dressed down with leather boots.

I am wearing a TJ Maxx Poncho (similar), Forever 21 shirt, Siwy denim (similar), ZARA wedges (want these next), Etsy arrow necklace (want this next), Marc Jacobs sunglasses (similar)

XO, In

hot pink and boyfriend jeans

Photographed by Rachel Laiche

A hot pink peplum top (obtained from Charlotte Russe at next to nothing) paired down with the softest, most comfortable pair of boyfriend jeans makes a pretty bold statement, don't you think?

I am wearing Paige boyfriend denim, Charlotte Russe peplum top, Mickey's Girl arrow cuff, Ebay starfish cuff, Etsy arrowhead necklace, TJ Maxx gold hand pendant, ZARA heels

XO, In

easy fall transitions

Photographed by Kendal Beecher

The arrival of fall means the transition of color palettes: from pastel pink into rich, saturated oxblood; from sky blues into navy.  For those unwilling to let the summer go, incorporating a single article of versatile autumn color into your ensemble will ease your changeover.

Tip for the upcoming chillier months: wear your jeans flared, long enough to cover any hint of shoe peeking through. It gives the illusion of mile-long legs, and adds sophistication.

I am wearing BDG Denim, Forever 21 knitted shawl, D&G sunglasses in Havana Brown, LuLu's bow bandeau, Jennifer Zeuner sideways cross necklace, Etsy druzy pendant

XO, In