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

dress up your graphic t

Photographed by Kendal Beecher

I spotted my men's Coors graphic tank, yes--a men's tank thrifted from Urban Outfitters-- laying on my bed, and immediately I knew I wanted to build a look around it.  The key to dressing up your graphic tee stems from the simple act of transforming your ensemble from casual to evening; less is not more in this case. Experiment with patterns, colors, textures, and embellishments to take your favorite tee to a whole new level. 

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I would consider myself a shopping aficionado.  The amount of packages that come regularly to my doorstep is absolutely repulsive (my roommates and boyfriend can attest to that).  Hey, if you have come across as many outlandish deals as I have, or know where to look for them, I can guarantee that you will do the same.  Why not share my addiction love for online shopping with our readers? 

Take a look at our blog, you may notice a small change-- a list of online stores to the right.  I added these because I have gotten various questions like, "Where do you online shop?" or "Do you know of any places similar to Tobi.com?" Having a list of brands we recommend and shop regularly from to our readers infinitely makes this online shopping process a whole lot less cumbersome and more accessible.  *Feel free to email us or leave a comment if you have any questions about sizing/shipping questions (trust me, we know that miniscule model is in no way shape or form wearing a size small). We know what brands run big, and what stores are not honest with their sizing.

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Finally, we are so excited to share with you that we have an exciting project lined up with an up and coming brand! Details will be posted soon!

I am wearing an Urban Outfitters tank (I want this next), Urban Outfitters blazer (similar), H&M pants (similar look in leather leggings), ZARA shoes, Forever 21 necklace (one of our favorites), Diesel Watch

XO, In

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