Always In Style // trench dress + lace-up heels

Forever classic, a trench coat is THE ultimate jacket to take you from summer to fall (and everything in between.) Adopting that same design and philosophy for a dress, the unique beauty I'm rocking here is both modern and effortlessly timeless. Ps. while I'm wearing it strapless in these pics, it actually comes with detachable straps if that's more your jam.  

I knew I had to have this dress when I first saw it. I didn't have anything like it in my closet, which is always a selling point for me. Not only that though, it's much more versatile than it may appear at first glance. I can see myself wearing jackets and coats over it in fall and layering button-downs and blouses UNDER it in spring. Even better, it buttons all the way down so you can technically wear it as a tunic - just unbutton it halfway down and wear with pants! Need a visual? Check out this genius styling by Wendy's Lookbook. 

I debated for a while about what shoes to wear with this dress - I even took votes from family members and friends! I ended up landing on these sexy lace-up heels because they make a bold statement. I also thought black looked best considering the fashion world is transitioning into fall and this khaki material reminds me of autumn. 

My leopard clutch only adds to the fierce factor of this ensemble. While a simple black bag would have done the job, animal print is much more exciting and fun. 

An earring guaranteed to make you a fashion "it" girl, this XL sized pair adds instant edge and elegance to any look. Its impact is extra powerful when I pull my hair back. No necklace needed. 

For those of you who follow me on Snapchat, you know I call this statement bracelet my "Wonder Woman" cuff. I love wearing it with strong pieces - like this dress - to accentuate its tough-luxe beauty. 

A deep red lip polished off this look perfectly. I reserve this lip color for when I want to look uber glam, and I love how chic it looks with a slick pony, sky-high lashes, and neutral eyeshadow. 

 Photos by Dan Harper

[dress: Banana Republic // heels: Ann Taylor (I also like this pair) // clutch: Michael Kors (I also like this one) // earrings: & Other Stories (I also like this pair) // cuff: & Other Stories (similar style here) // lipstick: Kylie Jenner's KoKo Kollection in "Gorg"]

Nope, it's not New York - it's Chicago! While home last month, my dad and I snapped these pics on the Chicago Riverwalk, and it turned out to be a beautiful backdrop for such a look-at-me outfit. Although I love NYC dearly, there's nothing like Chi-Town. I mean, just LOOK at how clean it is! 

 //  SHOP //