Winter Neon

Even when it's grey and gloomy outside there's always one thing I can count on to brighten my mood (literally) - a neon & leather combo. Nothing like vivid eye candy paired with some edgy texture. 

I love the way these gold studs pop against the snow-white quilted leather; it adds a luxurious feel. 

I've been super into layering necklaces lately. This long beaded one reminds me of the roaring 20s! 

 Photos by Sarah Harper 

[sweater: Gap, jacket: Forever21, jeans: Urban Underground @ Nordstrom, boots: Style & Co., earrings: fine jewelry, black necklace: Ann Taylor]

Isn't this radiant pink sweater delightful? It's an instant mood booster and I love the contrast when paired with black elements. Pink, black, & white is such a fun color combination - just add a splash of neon for a modern twist!    

Easy Prep

Preppy takes a turn for the modern when done in neutrals with a pop of bold jewel tones. Preppy never looked so casually sophisticated! 

A classic preppy look consists of a few key pieces...

1.Cardigan 

2.Dark wash jeans 

3.Boots

4.Watch 

5.Statement necklace 

6.Bangles 

7.Pearls 

Photos by Sarah Harper 

[jeans: Joe's, top: Ann Taylor, cardigan: Ann Taylor, boots: Frye, necklace: boutique, earrings: Macy's, black bracelet: Ann Taylor, bangles: Alex & Ani, watch: Invicta]

Combining these traditional prepster pieces to create a classic preppy look is one thing. But let's aim for something more contemporary. 

1.Colorblocked cardigan in tan and black is a sophisticated combination. Add in a punch of color for an unexpected twist

2. Nothing's more effortlessly chic than a pair of dark wash skinny jeans that fit like a glove

3. Chocolate riding boots with sleek hardware running down the back gives a conventional pair of boots an edgy vibe

4. Opt for a daintier silver & black watch rather than an oversized gold timepiece. Silver & black is the epitome of modern color combinations

5. A statement necklace with some color is the perfect updated accessory. And of course, the bigger, the better

6. Load on some bangles to give your look a touch of metal without all the bling and sparkles, which can look overwhelming and gaudy 

7. Pearls are pearls, they're timeless and always appropriate. Switch out your regular ones for a larger sized stud. 

Wow in MODERN PREP

Hey Mickey

With this arctic vortex sweeping the nation, I've been even more into layering than usual. I love a collared top underneath a sweater, and even though it's a preppy look, you can put your own spin on it by adding black jeans, attention-grabbing footwear, and dazzling accessories.

I think this graphic sweater is so cute! I'm always going to be a Disney girl at heart and this top is the perfect way to add sweetness to any ensemble. 

Decorate your fingers with delicate silver rings. Make them pop by painting your nails a bright color. 

The thick heel on these booties makes them extremely comfortable and walkable. I think their height is unique too - they're not exactly ankle booties but they're definitely not high boots either. They're a fun pair to play around with and they always add an extra special touch to whatever I'm wearing.

Can you tell that I love matching my accessories? 

Photos by Erin Valentine 

[chambray top: Urban Outfitters, sweater: Forever21, pants: Urban Underground, booties: Miz Mooz, headband: Forever21, earrings: Kate Spade, watch: Fossil] 

Red is a color that everyone looks great in but not everyone takes advantage of. Especially during these dreary days of January, most people opt for neutral colors or stick to their usual scheme of black and white. Red serves as a fun burst of color that can easily be transitioned into any wardrobe and is still appropriate for winter.

You can even add a splash of red in the form of a statement accessory to your favorite black sweater. Red truly is a beautiful accent color to any neutral. 

Wow in red!