shorts in the winter

I was down in Richmond for the weekend and was faced with alarmingly warm weather.  It was almost jarring, but I welcomed it nonetheless.  The shorts I had absentmindedly packed proved to be surprisingly useful as I was prepared to wear skinnies with this outfit.

For those who are quite like me and refuse to part ways with their denim cutoffs in the winter, look no further.  There are ways to incorporate shorts into your wintery repertoire by layering them over black tights or thick textured socks.  Layer, layer, and continue to layer by adding a chunky wool knit, and you will eventually welcome that cool breeze hitting your legs.  

It is apparent that my infatuation for these boots continue.  The key to pulling off a thigh high boot is ultimately proportion.  Wearing over the knee boots can sometimes overly elongate your look, and adding a loosely fitting blazer or an oversized sweater can create a streamlined balance.

I am wearing an H&M sweater (similar), vintage Levi's 501 high-waisted shorts (similar), Vanessa Mooney body chain, Nordstrom felt hat, DSW boots (similar), MAC lipstick in Diva

XO, In

black out

I used to think wearing all of one color was equivalent to getting dressed with my eyes closed, but these days it is effortlessly chic. My black "leather" (pleather) peplum top, which was given to me as a gift from my one and only fav blogger, In Park, is actually from none other than Charlotte Russe. 

The black skinnies balance out the shape of the peplum and the black patent Jeffrey Campbells elongate the leg. In is responsible for that amazing lip color, which she achieved with MAC lip liner and neon pink pigment. Va va voom.

I am wearing Charlotte Russe peplum top (similar here), Old Navy black skinnies, Jeffrey Campbell city girl pump (sold out, similar suede version), Jumbo ID necklace (similar here)

XO, Rachel

aztec bodycon

I found this midi body con-dress at TJ Maxx and loved the pattern. I wanted a graduation dress that wasn't too fancy but that I could still dress up with a pair of wedged heels. I bought these shoes from Amazon a few months back and I wear them all the time. They're a staple item in my shoe collection and I love to wear them with dresses as well as skinny legged pants. The necklace that I added was something that I would not normally be attracted to but I loved the antique look that it had and it complimented the aztec design of the dress well. This dress can also be toned down with a pair of neutral colored booties for a more casual occasion as well!!

I am wearing a TJ Maxx dress, shoes from Amazon.com (similar), TJ Maxx necklace, David Yurman ring

XO, Kendal

over the knee

 I had faithfully kept my over the knee boots stashed away for about 3 years, patiently waiting for the resurgence of the trend.  They're having a major moment in the fashion world, and aesthetics aside, their practicality is undeniable.  I do realize the ridiculousness of that statement, but do you know how warm my legs were on this day? They were hot dogs.  Pair them with a billowy dress or in this case, the most comfortable jeans I have ever owned--(Nordstrom can do no wrong; I have chosen to wear these high-waisted jeans on multiple occasions over yoga pants... I never choose jeans over yoga pants), and you'll be good to go.

It's hard to believe I've worn these mirrored sunglasses almost every day since I purchased them in late March.  The reflective lenses are ultra-chic and surprisingly go well with any ensemble.  The striking blue color also photographs brilliantly and complements all shades of lip color; combine reflective sunnies with a bold lip and voila! you are effortlessly color-blocking. Trust me, just throw these on and you will be turning heads.

Also, you need MAC Rebel.  It has singlehandedly changed my life... it is the sisterhood of the traveling pants in lipstick form as it looks amazing on every skin tone.

I am wearing a NastyGal cropped sweater (also in black) gifted trench (similar), Blank jeans, Coal beanie, Ray-Ban sunglasses, DSW OTK boots (love these), MAC lipstick in Rebel (MAC Liner in Vino)

XO, In

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