all wrapped up

Dressing comfortable is ideal, dressing comfortable and fashionable? Very ideal. That is what is so amazing about this long black poncho I snagged at Marshall's. It is long enough that I can wear it over leggings (the best part) and cute enough that I can wear it out. 

My Jessica Simpson boots were actually purchased by mistake. I thought I was ordering the camel color and I actually ordered this burnt red, which I immediately fell in love with at first sight over. Happy accident. 

I am wearing poncho from Marshall's (similar here), Jessica Simpson boots, Forever 21 necklace (similar here), Target leggings, Old Navy tee

XO, Rachel

matchy-matchy

Great to be back!  It's hard to believe that I've been out of college for close to half a year.  Life has been a whirlwind and this fall has been more than just transitional; transitional being the understatement of the century.  Life back in DC has been simultaneously overwhelming and exciting, and I cannot think of another place I would rather call home... well except, New York, but that's another story.

Rachel, Kendal and I thought blogging again would be a great way to keep in touch although all three of us are currently geographically apart (hopefully not for long!).  Not to mention, we would be able to effectively chronicle our constantly evolving styles.  

Which brings me to one of my favorite trends of the year: matching separates.  Coordinates are necessities in anyone's wardrobe-- from a crop top/high-waisted skirt set to even a matching patterned shortsuit, this trend is incredibly versatile and not just for the daring.

I am wearing a Forever 21 grid crop top & bottom, ASOS leather ponyhair clutch (in yellow), Forever 21 hat (splurge!), ZARA heels, choies necklace (similar)

XO, In

shop my picks:

fringe binge

After a long break, we are happily and excitedly blogging again! With Kendal in Blacksburg, In in Alexandria, and myself in Richmond, it has been hard for us to be able to blog together. However, we just could not suppress our burning desire to get back on our blogging grind. So here we are, tri-city bloggin'.

When I saw this amazing fringe detailed shirt on sale at Ann Taylor on Black Friday I just absolutely haaaaad to have it. I love how unique and fun it is, and did I mention it was 50% off? Obviously the best part about it. And check out that ear cuff, only $2.50 at Forever 21. Mom hates it - I love it. 

I am wearing Forever 21 pants (similar here) , Ann Taylor blouse, Aldo booties (similar here), Forever 21 ear cuff (similar here), Mac lipstick in Rebel

XO, Rachel

hiatus

Since we have all graduated and have gone our separate ways (for now!), A Style Love Affair will be taking a hiatus. We view this as a 'pause' button, as we hope to press the 'play' button once again.

In the meantime, check out In's personal style blog:

Park's Avenue

jumping into spring

Photographed by Kendal Beecher

It's crazy to think that just over a week ago I was dressing for a snow storm and now I'm pulling out my warm weather wardrobe (and happily I might add).

This strapless jumpsuit from the Loft is the perfect transition outfit for the spring weather. The drawstring cinches in the waist for a more figure flattering look, and not to mention it is extremely comfortable and easy to wear!

I am wearing an Ann Taylor Loft jumpsuit (similar), House of Harlow sunglasses, Francesca's earrings (similar), Soda heels (similar), South Moon Under necklace, Michael Kors watch, David Yurman ring, Jeweliq Nail it bangle

XO, Rachel

skorts in 2013

Photographed by Rachel Laiche

Feast your eyes upon this... skort.  Yes, you read right, skort.  Gone are the days where skorts were only seen in embarrassing elementary school polaroid pictures.  Combining design and comfort, this structured asymmetrical ZARA skort is a must-have for your spring closet.

On to my second obsession: mirrored sunglasses.  Reflective lenses in colored hues bring something new, yet completely retro to the table. They are incredibly versatile, as you can wear them on the beach (especially in colors that mimic the color of the ocean)-- or use them to give an otherwise dual-chromatic ensemble (like the one above), an unexpected edge.

I am wearing a Nasty Gal sweater, ZARA skort (similar skirt option), Jeffrey Campbell 'Solitaire' heels, Urban Outfitters necklace (similar), Ray-Ban 'Cats 5000' sunglasses (also in blue and red)

XO, In

comfy chic

Photographed by In Park

It's almost April and we are currently in the midst of a snowy week here in good ol' Blacksburg, VA, which makes it extremely difficult to incorporate any spring pieces into my wardrobe. I am dying to break out the bright colors and spring time dresses, so I chose this thin (yet still warm for the snow) light pink sweater to add some color to my otherwise black outfit.

In order to look chic yet still comfortable in the snow I chose my Steve Madden wedge lace up booties, which are incredibly easy to walk in and the absolute perfect height for basically any pair of flares. This snow won't bring me down it just gives me an excuse to dress comfier!

I am wearing Dior sunglasses, Target beanie (similar), TJ Maxx sweater (similar), Forever 21 jeans (similar), Steve Madden booties (similar), Francesca's necklace (similar)

XO, Rachel