For The Win(ter) :: hat + long cardigan

 In need of a winning winter combination? Search no further than rich hues, a sharp wool coverup, luscious OTK boots, and a killer hat. 
Tomorrow's outfit = done!  

This show-stopping necklace by R.J. Graziano was a Christmas gift from my mom this past year. She fell in love with the unique design and elegant detailing and so did I. This is the perfect piece to dress up just about anything. It certainly steals the show, doesn't it? 

Being a sucker for anything leather, these pockets sealed the deal for me when deciding whether or not to purchase this insanely versatile cardigan.

Give your beanie a rest. When it comes to stylish winter hats, this Anthropologie gem is a no-brainer.

These are the winter boots I've been getting the most use out of lately. I love the fact that they're over-the-knee, plus the sleek black silhouette is elegant yet versatile enough for every day. Even better - they match my leather pockets perfectly! 

Grey pearls for a polished finishing touch. 

Photos by Dan Harper

[t-shirt: Ann Taylor, sweater: Ann Taylor, jeans: Gap, hat: Anthropologie, boots: Ann Taylor, necklace: R.J. Graziano, watch: Fossil, earrings: fine jewelry, spike bracelet: Stella & Dot]

 Layering is your best weapon during wintertime. While I am no master at layering, I strive to become better at it each season, and the Ann Taylor cardigan I'm wearing here is the perfect piece to do just that. Whether you pair it with a turtleneck, a tee, or even a dress, this cardigan - or any other similarly thick sweater - is your secret weapon against the chill. 

These photos were taken at my elementary school. Although this playground wasn't around 10 years ago, my dad and I thought it would be a fun backdrop for a contrasting sophisticated look. These photos may be taken on a playground, but it would look just as chic on city streets. 

Another way I wore this cardigan...

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SHOP ::

Silver Lining :: plaid + floral

I don't know about you but in the late winter months I feel unmotivated to look cute on the regular. The silver lining to this freezing cold? Sharpening your styling skills by challenging yourself to create stylish looks despite the chilly temps and desperate want for spring. If nothing else it'll give you some 

much needed inspiration!  

To add some excitement to my daily winter attire, I decided to mix it up with some pattern infusion. Dark plaid and bright florals are fresh and playful - a great way to enliven a grey afternoon. 

Wearing vivid colors, with lips to match, is my favorite way to put a pep in my step. It's amazing what a blast of color can do. 

I added a dark blue bracelet to compliment the plaid in my top. When it comes to flannel button-downs, I always prefer one of the dark-hued and oversized variety. I found this one at H&M last fall and fell in love with it's slouchy fit and comfy fabric. 

How cute is the puff ball on this black beanie? I'll tell you what, it's the cherry to my ice cream sundae! 

This Tiffany & Co. necklace was a Christmas gift from my parents back when I was still in middle school. For those of you who know me well, you probably know that I wear this a lot. It's my go-to piece without a doubt and for a long time I wore it every single day. It holds a special place in my heart as well as in my collection. 

Never without a watch! 

Photos by Brooke Faison 

[plaid button-down: H&M, scarf: Urban Outfitters, jeans: Gap, hat: Loft, thigh-high boots: Ann Taylor, earrings: Ann Taylor, necklace: Tiffany & Co., watch: Fossil, blue bracelet: Ann Taylor, bangle: Alex & Ani, leather bracelet: Michael Dawkins] 

In my last post it was 74 degrees, in this post it was in the 40s, and today as I type this it is 34 degrees and there's snow on the ground. So although I'm in North Carolina, winter is clearly still going strong. Unfortunately. But as much as I cannot wait for warmer weather and longer days, there is a silver lining. 

With each passing day - each one colder than the last - I've been learning to get  more creative with my winter wardrobe, striving to put together an outfit that I feel energized about. This endless freezing cold has left me feeling inspired to create stylish and attractive looks despite my urge to just throw on a sweatshirt every day. It's been an invigorating style challenge! 

SHOP :: 

Valentine's Day Look :: [killer] red heels

Capture the essence of modern elegance in a ladylike lace dress paired with a metro-cool moto jacket. The finishing touch for date night? Fierce heels of course! 

Let's just take a second to admire these beauties. Are these not the perfect 

date night/any night/any day shoes? Guys, I think I'm in love! The rich color, strategic cutouts, and buckle details are so on point that it'll be hard not to wear these with every outfit. 

Dial up the drama with a berry lip and messy-chic pony. Feminine accessories (like my Kate Spade bow necklace) keep this look demure. 

A subtle cat eye and striking sparkle studs give an old Hollywood feel to a modern feminine look. Let's be honest, I pretty much wear these earrings every day - they're perfect for day or night!

Another glamour shot of my new fave footwear ;)

Cream and black bracelets to match my dress. And how cute is this feather midi-ring? 

Lipstick is my newest beauty obsession. I've learned that a lovely lip shade completely transforms an entire look. I've been getting the most use out of this romantic shade lately. 

Opt for a pretty leather and lace combo when you want to embrace the party spirit. The black and white palette is traditional while the leather adds an edgy twist. 

Photos by Brooke Faison 

[dress: Ann Taylor, leather jacket: Guess, heels: Ann Taylor, necklace: Kate Spade, earrings: Kate Spade, white bangle: Kate Spade, black bracelet: Ann Taylor, bangle: Alex & Ani]

For me this is an ultimate date outfit. It has all my favorite elements when I want to feel my best: statement-making leather, romantic lace, sexy heels, a bold lip, and a flattering fit. Although this is Valentine's Day inspired, I can easily see myself wearing this out any night of the year.

North Carolina weather has got me (and my wardrobe) confused. This past weekend - when these photos were taken - was absolutely gorgeous at 75 degrees, can you believe it? This is February, people! But unfortunately snow is apparently a possibility for this up and coming week. And I was finally starting to get excited about breaking out some spring pieces. Looks like the groundhog was right. 

SHOP ::