Velvet Dreams // Valentine's Day Outfit

No matter WHERE you're headed this Valentine's Day or WHAT your plans are, a stylish, low-key-festive outfit never hurt nobody ;) 

Even if you don't have mega plans on February 14, dressing the part is always fun. After all, V-Day is on a Friday this year, so go ahead and make a night out of it. Whether you're out with your girls, watching movies with your BFF, or dining with your SO, you'll need an outfit for it!

I love this outfit for Valentine's Day/date night because it's laid-back yet polished, on-trend yet classic. Both in velvet, my burgundy tank and merlot heels are a nod to the holiday, while my pearl accessories are romantic extras that dress up the entire look. Leather pants and an oversized plaid blazer add edge and easy sophistication. 

Photos by Sarah Harper

[top: J.Crew (I also like this one) // blazer: H&M (I also like this one) // pants: H&M (I also like this pair) // heels: Ann Taylor (I also like this pair) // purse: Staud (I also like this one) // hair clips: Amazon // earrings: Anthropologie (similar pair here) // necklace: Kevia (I also like this one) // lip color: Urban Decay Ultra Cushion Lipgloss in "Backtalk"] 

Valentine's Day can be a tossup for Antonio and I. Last year, HE went all out — had a massive bouquet of flowers delivered to my office, surprised me with fancy dinner plans, wrote me a tear-inducing card, etc. We dressed up, we had a blast, and it was very memorable. However, in years past, we've simply worn jeans and headed to the movies. I'm not sure where we ate dinner, but it was probably at Chipotle or something. 

Our first Valentine's Day in NYC was on a Saturday. He came over to my apartment in the morning carrying pink roses and a heart-shaped box of chocolates. He then took me to Bloomingdales and told me I could pick out anything I wanted (within a certain budget of course.) After shopping, he surprised me with a private mani/pedi complete with champagne and chocolates. Dinner was at Ted's Montana Grill — one of our favorites! 

I, on the other hand, am not as impressive on Valentine's Day. One time I even forgot a card for him so I bought one AND WROTE IN IT inside Duane Reade the day of...while he was picking up something unrelated a few aisles over. Not my finest moment. This year though, I'm taking the reins. It won't be something overly glamorous — our wedding budget will make sure of that — but we'll do SOMETHING. And it'll be sweet and special nonetheless.  

// SHOP //

Leopard Love // White Boots + Leopard Pants

With Valentine’s Day quickly approaching, I decided to style a look that subtly works for the holiday while remaining on-trend and versatile no matter what you may be up to in the next few weeks. Because let’s be real — when are leopard pants NOT appropriate? ;)

 Throwing a pink velvet bow on it pretty much ensures you’re V-Day-Ready. Here, I added a hair bow to my burgundy-sweater look, and applied a sultry lip to match. Meanwhile, there’s a whole party happening on my lower half. These leopard pants have been one of my favorite pieces to style recently, and I’ve been rocking them with everything from graphic tees to crisp blazers to simple sweaters like this one. Especially for this gloomy time of year, they’re a MUCH needed fresh alternative to denim or black pants.

Tip: Use white accessories to help brighten up even your winteriest winter looks. From my boots to my earrings to my purse, the bright, neutral hue instantly transports me to warmer days and creates a modern, elevated aesthetic. Even my nails are white!

Photos by Sarah Harper

[sweater: Ann Taylor (I also like this one) // pants: Ann Taylor (sold out, but I also like this pair) // boots: Nic + Zoe // hair bow: J.Crew (similar one here) // necklace: Anthropologie // earrings: Alexis Bittar (I also like this pair) // purse: Michael Kors (I also like this one) // watch: Ted Baker (I also like this one) // lip color: Nars Powermatte Lip Luster in "Combat" (sold out, but similar shade by Anastasia Beverly Hills in "Phantom"]

The biting-cold temps that have been plaguing the nation are no joke. While we haven’t been hit with a polar vortex here in NYC, it’s safe to say we’ve ALL been bundling up more than usual lately. For extra warmth, I’ve been adding unexpected layers to my daily outfit formulas — a cami under a blouse, a thin tee under a sweater, and even tights under jeans. In the above photos, I’m actually wearing a relatively thick shell underneath my sweater, which did wonders for keeping the cold air at bay. At this point, the more layers the better, and I love sneaking in a few hidden ones that don’t compete with my overall look!

// SHOP //

Spotted Comfort // Leopard Vest + Velvet Pants

Winter is no longer taking it easy on us. For a while there I thought, “Hey, this whole winter thing isn’t as bad as I remember. I can totally do this!” Welp, she’s back with vengeance, people; and I. Am. Cold. The worst part? This isn’t even the worst part! ...As I type this, it’s actually 33 degrees and sunny outside (which, as sad as it is, is actually decent). In preparation for temps 20 degrees and under, I’m layering, hibernating, and taking advantage of fluffy, cozy textures — starting with fur (specifically leopard, because you know me).

Vests may not specifically be “in” at this CURRENT moment, but I don’t think I could ever part with some of my favorites — including this fabulous leopard number. In fact, I’m sitting here right now wearing this tuxedo vest that I equally love. Vests are an amazing winter choice because they warm you up without overheating you, and they’re so fun to play with — oh the styling and layering opportunities! They can easily fit underneath my heavy down coat, and they instantly add dimension and polish to any outfit. Consider me a fan for life 👌

Starting with a basic black palette, I decidedly made accessories the focal point of this look. Black is clean, sophisticated, and versatile (did I mention slimming?), and these bold, cheery extras are fun, colorful, and refreshing. There’s nothing like a pop of lavender, canary yellow, or crisp white (or hello, all THREE) to brighten up your wintery ensembles.

Photos by Sarah Harper

[vest: J.Crew (I also like this one) // top: Ann Taylor // pants: J.Crew // boots: Ann Taylor // headband: Anthropologie // purse: Rebecca Minkoff // earrings: J.Crew (super similar pair here) // necklace: Uncommon James // lip color: Kylie Cosmetics Matte Liquid Lipstick in "Khlo$" (similar here in "Get It!")]

Keeping warm is pretty much the name of the game at this point, but, ahem, staying stylish is also a must :) For a more elevated look, rather than reaching for your fave hoodie or puffer vest, a fur vest or teddy jacket effortlessly provides that extra oomph your outfit may need. I’m also relying on supersoft textures more than ever, as the pants I’m wearing above are velvet and my sweater feels like a comfy light blanket. Let’s get through this god-forsaken season together, shall we?

// SHOP // 

A Dash of Red // off-the-shoulder + velvet pants

Coming in red hot with another festive look for the holidays. Featuring luxe velvet, refined off-the-shoulder detailing, trendy leopard, and of course statement-worthy red, this outfit pretty much has it all. But would you believe it's also deceivingly comfortable?

I actually featured these pants last December in this post, but I couldn't resist styling them again this year. Why? The softness! The stretchiness! The versatility! These babies are my secret weapon when I want to look put together (or dare I say, fancy?) but know I'll either A.) be eating a lot, or B.) be lounging/sitting a lot. Best of Both Worlds, I am here for you! 

I love sprinkling my holiday looks with extra special detailing of the shimmery, sparkly variety. Long, gold earrings like these are refined and light but still bring the drama. I especially love the way they frame my face!

 Photos by Antonio Owens

[blazer: Ann Taylor (similar style here) // bodysuit: Express (I also like this one) // pants: J.Crew // heels: Ann Taylor // clutch: Rebecca Minkoff (I also like this one) // earrings: Club Monaco (similar pair here) // gold spike bracelet: Stella & Dot // eyeshadow: Stila Shimmer & Glow Liquid Eye Shadow in "Smoky Storm" // lip color: Nars Manic Velvet Matte Lip Pencil Set in "Bondage"]

Christmas in New York City is a special thing. What's amazing is that so many stores, streets, and buildings get into the holiday spirit. Almost everywhere you look, you see larger-than-life decorations and lights, and it is SO picturesque.

Antonio and I took these photos this past weekend right out front of the Ralph Lauren flagship stores on the Upper Eastside. For those who haven't seen it, check out this pic and this pic. You see what I'm saying? ALL out! Sometimes I even feel like I'm in a Hallmark movie...

// SHOP //

Blue Velvet // silver accents + velvet blazer

While velvet may have been one of winter's biggest trends, it's def not going anywhere now that winter is (kind of) over. To style the luxe look for spring, pair it with cool graphic tees, colorful jewelry, and so-now metallics. 

Velvet undoubtedly made an impact this past year. And for good reason! The irresistible fabric is surprisingly easy to work into your off-duty uniform. Here, I simply paired it with jeans and eclectic accessories. It would look just as fabulous with light-wash denim or over a breezy sundress too.

As the weather SLOWLYYYY starts to warm up, I love wearing oversized blazers as a jacket. They literally go with just about everything and serve as a stylish way to keep warm. 

 Photos by Antonio Owens 

[blazer: Ann Taylor (I also like this one) // tee: Banana Republic (I also like this one) // jeans: Gap (similar pair here) // booties: Zara (similar pair here) // purse: Rebecca Minkoff // earrings: Anthropologie (super similar pair here) // eyeshadow: Stila Glitter & Glow liquid eyeshadow in "Kitten Karma" // lip color: Clinique Pop Matte in "Pow Pop"]

I wore this outfit this past weekend for brunch and furniture shopping with Antonio. And until sundress weather comes along, I'm just loving not having to weigh myself down with wintery bulk. I think we all can officially say goodbye to our scarves, hats, and fuzzy boots! 

// SHOP //