Fit To Be Tied :: stripes + chambray + scarf

A new favorite way to wear my chambray blouse? Tied around my waist! Surprised? Yes, it's a little bit quirky, a little bit old-school, but an undeniable, popular trend that's been rocking the street style scene. 

Speaking of undeniably popular trends, ripped black skinny jeans have leapt onto the fashion scene as this season's 'it' pant. They're chic, edgy, and ultra flattering. My pair is from Gap and I love them - these knee holes are fierce! 

Pink and orange is such a fun color combo for spring, which is why I love it on a linen scarf. It brings vibrance to my otherwise toned down look. 

Pink accessories and bright nails help my outfit pop. This is my new favorite nail color for sure (similar shade here). 

Not only is pink my favorite color, but lucky for me it's also THE color for spring. I've been seeing pinky pastels everywhere lately and I can't say that I hate it. Pink totally puts me in the springtime mood - I've even been wearing it on my lips! 

My mom picked up these unique earrings for me in Boston a few years back. She found them in one of the largest Anthropologies in the country and they were such a great purchase. I don't wear dangle earrings often, but I can't help but make an exception for these pink beauties. 

Photos by Dan Harper 

[top: Ann Taylor, jeans: Gap, chambray tied around waist: Urban Outfitters, scarf: Madewell, sneakers: Converse All Star, earrings: Anthropologie, watch: Kate Spade, pink bangle: Michael Kors,  gold link bracelet: Stella & Dot]

Unfortunately it has yet to warm up here in Chicago so I decided to incorporate some springy energy into my outfit to liven things up a bit. I think these coordinated accessories are so fun and they certainly helped satisfy my spring craving without sacrificing any warmth. 

As far as my chambray 'belt' goes, yes, it is fit to be tied, not only around my waist but yours too! I promise, this trend is so not just for tourists and 90s moms anymore. 

SHOP :: 

The Key To Spring :: anorak + dress + jeans

The key to spring is being prepared and wearing layers - nothing you haven't heard before. But today I'm going to share with you some of my favorite spring essentials that were made for indecisive weather; they're not too heavy, not too light, and can easily be shed. Spring may be tricky but with these adaptable pieces it doesn't have to be. 

 Item number one: a versatile, medium-weight anorak. What I love about anoraks is that they're typically fleece-lined, waterproof, and have drawstrings for a flattering fit. They're the perfect 50-degree jacket and come in a variety of neutral tones. You can easily roll up the sleeves of an anorak and they look just as chic unzipped as they do zipped. These jackets are a springtime win-win!

Item number two: colorful accessories. This fabulous purple key necklace from  La Clé is the finishing touch to any casual look. With it's bold, vibrant color, this unique bauble stands out against the usual spring palette of pastels. Buy this piece here or checkout the entire La Clé website for your own customized key. 

Item number three: sunglasses. I don't know about you, but I think an oversized pair of shades is a must - not only for spring but for all year round. If an overcast day strikes then use your sunnies as a hair accessory. 

I'm a sucker for Argo Tea samples. There are just some things you can't resist...even in the middle of a photo shoot. 

Item number four: a pair of peep toe booties. Peep toe shoes - especially boots - were made for transitional seasons. They're the perfect hybrid of sandal and boot that allow your toes a breath of fresh air while keeping the rest of your foot warm and concealed. 

Item number five: A tunic. Tunics (or in my case dresses) make the list due to their layering power. A longer top looks fantastic underneath jackets and provides that tiny bit of extra warmth that late March days often call for.  

Photos by Dan Harper

[dress: Brandy Melville, anorak: Loft, jeans: Joe's, booties: Old Navy, sunglasses: Ann Taylor, key necklace: La Clé*, watch: Fossil, leather bracelet: Michael Dawkins, silver spike bracelet: Stella & Dot, earrings: fine jewelry]

I think we can all agree that spring can be such a weather tease. I'm currently home in Chicago on spring break and while the weekend was sunny and mildly warm, we're expecting snow early this week. What a buzzkill! But at least now that spring has officially arrived, we know that permanent warmer temps can't be too far away. Until then I'll make sure that my anorak is within close reach! 

SHOP :: 

Up Your Game :: chambray + heels + hat

My winter wardrobe rut is officially over! The arrival of spring brings endless fashion possibilities along with a fresh style lens in which to view my closet. Up your fashion game and take advantage of this wonderful season. Challenge yourself by going bold, trying something new, and taking risks. 

Not that wearing a hat, sexy heels, and a daring lip shade is a risk per se, but it's a combo that you never would have seen me in a year ago. I simply never would have thought of it! But as my style matures and my tastes expand, I find myself becoming more and more of, well, myself. I feel truly at home in this look and I think it speaks to my personal growth in the fashion world.

This double-chain stone necklace from Loft (click here to buy) is one that I can't seem to take off lately. It goes with absolutely everything and adds just the right amount of sparkle. 

My favorite heels make another appearance on the blog. Merlot is THE neutral of the season - trust me. It plays nicely with every color from cobalt to mustard. I thought a pop of this romantic shade was just what this look needed! 

I am in love with this hat. I really am. I get tons of compliments whenever I wear it and lately I'm having a hard time coming up with an outfit that doesn't include it. It's the cherry to my sundae! 

Dip your nails into a darker hue for an unexpected springtime mani. Pastels are sweet, moody tones are mischievous and coy. 

My wardrobe isn't the only thing that's getting a reboot this spring - I've been experimenting with makeup too. My current favorite look? The subtle cat eye of course! 

Photos by Brooke Faison 

[top: Loft, skirt: Ann Taylor, heels: Ann Taylor, hat: Anthropologie, necklace: Loft, watch: Marc Jacobs, gold link bracelet: Stella & Dot, black & gold bracelet: Ann Taylor, earrings: fine jewelry, purse: Brahmin]

This is one of my favorite outfits to date. I think it really speaks to the new direction my style is headed in. Although my style is never at a standstill - I like to think of it as constantly moving forward, evolving - I've been noticing lately that it truly has changed quite significantly during my college experience. From freshman year to senior year, I feel like a whole new person inside and out. 

Here's to a beautiful start to spring and new beginnings! 

SHOP ::