Paisley Days :: silk blouse + gray oxfords

Tuesday, August 25, 2015

Although my style tends to fall on the more classic side and I typically try and stay away from overly trendy items, this paisley silk blouse was just something I couldn't say no to. Trends come and go and I want my wardrobe to stay current for years to come, but as it turns out, paisley has been around for a very long time, which makes it a classic in its own right! So for this post I'm embracing the so-now 70s spirit and making it so 2015.  
 I don't know about you but whenever I think paisley I think of the 1960s/70s. I think of something like this paired with bellbottoms and clogs. Super retro. Did I ever think I was a paisley person? Nope! But then I spotted this silk blouse. I'll admit, it had to grow on me but after a few days of contemplation I knew I had to have it. I find it elegant and unique while unapologetically giving a nod to both Southwestern culture and decades past. Did you know that paisley was first printed in the early 17th century? History (and fashion) truly does repeat itself! 
Since moving to NYC I have been embracing flats. Don't get me wrong, I love my heels, but with all the walking I do on a daily basis, heels just are not a practical option for every day. And that's okay! Because adorably stylish oxfords like these have me thinking..."Heels? What heels?" 
Gray pearls serve as an exotic alternative to the classic staple; they're traditional but with a slight edge. I find myself reaching for this pair at least once a week. 
Ever since receiving this stunning David Yurman bangle for college graduation, I have worn it every single day (sometimes even to bed because I love it that much #NoShame). But although I wear it every day, it's exciting when it compliments my outfit exceptionally well. It's magical how the purple in my top picks up the amethysts in my bracelet to make it really shine. 
The beauty of a silk blouse is how effortlessly it can be tucked into a skirt or pair of pants. They're also amazingly breathable for summer and perfect for layering in the winter. This is my first 100% silk blouse but I'll definitely be investing in more down the road. 
My mom bought me this timeless Daniel Wellington watch for the purpose of job interviewing. It may sound like we're being picky, but an oversized metal watch is not always appropriate in a strict professional setting when you're looking to impress. But although this is considered my "business" watch, I gravitate towards it almost every day. It's such a beautiful and classic piece and it makes any outfit a bit more sophisticated and polished. 
Out of all the black skirts in my collection, this softly flared mini skirt from Ann Taylor is at the top of my list. I love how it has a drop-waist silhouette, making it ideal for tucked in or free flowing tops. And the leather trim makes for a subtly edgy detail, which you know I'm all about. I'm excited to team this baby with ankle booties and a chunky sweater once the air catches a chill. 
[silk blouse: Ann Taylor // skirt: Ann Taylor (old but I also like this one) // shoes: Clark's (similar here) // earrings: fine jewelry (similar here) // watch: Daniel Wellington // amethyst bangle: David Yurman // heart bracelet: Tiffany & Co. // lipstick: Clinique in "Bare Pop"

This paisley blouse is a top I'm excited about. I look forward to wearing it in the fall with flared jeans and camel booties and wearing it to work with a sleek pencil skirt, strands of pearls, and black pumps. Investing in a piece is not always easy, especially when you don't necessarily view the piece you're investing in as a basic staple. But to me, this printed silk blouse is a staple and one that I can wear season after season in a variety of ways. It may not be white but that definitely doesn't mean it's not versatile! 
SHOP ::


52 comments:

  1. beauty shirt! love it
    http://zielonoma.blogspot.it/2015/08/porto-taverna.html

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  2. The 70s in this is so lovely, and I can say, as a high heel kinda girl, that sometimes, flats are the way to go, hahaha. You look lovely, Kat!

    THE MAYDEN

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  3. I love the print of your shirt, cute skirt too!!!
    Kisses, Paola.

    Expressyourself

    My Facebook

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  4. nice shirt
    new post: http://melodyjacob1.blogspot.com/2015/08/designersua.html

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  5. You look so pretty! I love your top<3

    Regards,
    a-cupofrain.blogspot.com

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  6. Adorable preppy look Kat. I love your flats and the cute silk blouse.

    xx

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  7. Great look :)
    xx Katha
    showthestyle.blogspot.com

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  8. Lovely shoes!



    http://anna-alina.blogspot.com/

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  9. You look so pretty ! Love the blouse.
    Xoxo

    www.atwednesdaysiwearpink.blogspot.pt

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  10. Well it was a good investment because that paisley print suits you oh so well!

    House of Illusions

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  11. such a chic look! that blouse is so lovely! :)

    katslovefashion.blogspot.com

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  12. Love this blouse!)

    http://irinafedkova.blogspot.ru/

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  13. love that skirt, looks great with the top!
    Xo, Megan, www.TfDiaries.com

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  14. This blouse is beautiful! I love the paisley pattern.

    https://forsevenseasons.wordpress.com

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  15. Awesome post my Dear ! :)
    http://kasjaa.blogspot.com/

    PS: Please help me with collaboration and click Here <3

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  16. You look gorgeous, cute top and shoes! <33

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  17. I really love the paisley blouse. I wouldn't think of it as overly "trendy," just because the pattern has been around for so long.

    Also, I absolutely LOVE the two new accessories you've added to your collection.


    Jackie
    Something About That

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  18. Your shirt is gorgeous! I love the feather print on it!

    Raindrops of Sapphire

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  19. Oh yes I think of the 60s/70s too when I think of paisley it makes me think of The Brady Bunch and Greg chilling in his upstairs bedroom. Haha. But this is such a cute shirt and I like the short sleeve version too.

    Allie of ALLIENYC
    allienyc.com

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  20. What a lovely shirt, I didn't know that about paisley history. I have a few paisley outfits. You look lovely!
    Rachel xo
    http://www.garaytreasures.com/2015/08/blogbusinessandglassesgiveaway/

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  21. I love the shirt, it's gorgeous! You have the most striking eyes, they are incredibly beautiful!

    Hailey
    www.themiddlecloset.com

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  22. Such a cute paisely print top!
    www.docdivatraveller.blogspot.in

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  23. This is a beautifully styled outfit! I love how feminine you look while rocking the trend

    Natalia | Lindifique

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  24. I always come upon something new and unseen on your blog- like this blouse :) Oxford flats are really an elegant shoe wear and a perfect excuse to wear them instead of high heels ;) xx Maja
    http://majasmuffin.blogspot.com/

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  25. awesome blog:)
    Have a lovely day :)

    http://itsmetijana.blogspot.com/

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  26. Love that print on your shirt chic! Kisses from England x

    New page -> www.kayilo.com

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  27. Hi dear Kathleen
    I love your outfit especially your shirt with the paisley print. I've been looking for one for ages so thanks for the links:)
    Would you like to follow each other to stay in touch? If you follow my blog I'll follow you back as soon as I see it.
    Have a wonderful day,
    Lena

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  28. You are so so so so beautiful dear! And I don't exaggerate! :))
    Simimaus

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  29. Great outfit! Looks effortless, but so amazing!
    As always love your makeup! :)

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  30. I love how you mixed the 70's look with modern pieces! I think you'll get a lot of wear out of that blouse even though it's not the typical classic item.

    http://elementsofellis.com/

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  31. Hi Kathleen
    Thanks for following my blog.
    I just followed you backon GFC and bloglovin.
    Have a wonderful day,
    Lena

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  32. You're such a beautiful, lady and you look wonderful. Great ensemble! :)

    missymayification.blogspot.co.uk

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  33. Paisley is such a great, classic pattern. Love the colors!
    xx
    Laura
    www.sequinsatbreakfast.com

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  34. I'm definitely looking for a good pair of oxfords to accommodate city life! And your shirt is an interesting take on paisley...kind of reminds me of amoebas.

    Sincerely,
    Sabrina

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  35. lovely paisley print and it looks so cute on you!

    ♥♥
    winn
    winscribbles.blogspot.com

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  36. Hello dear :D
    First of all, you have an amazing blog, congrats!! :D Second, you look absolutely amazing and finally I really love your details :D

    I'm following you via GFC. Can you follow me back, please? :D


    NEW POST | DESK DECORATION
    InstagramFacebook Oficial PageMiguel Gouveia / Blog Pieces Of Me :D

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  37. I love your styling! Those loafers are perfect for fall.

    Wishes & Reality

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  38. Love this pattern on you! It looks great with the oxfords.. Such a cute outfit to transform to autumn..

    www.athreadofcouture.com

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  39. Love your shirt! Great pattern!
    xx
    Mademoiselle Coconath
    http://mllecoconath.com

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  40. Such a cute outfit! I love your top!

    www.mellowyellowblog.com

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  41. Hey gorgeous! Wonderful autumn outfit!Perfect shirt and great comb with this black skirt! So beautiful as always!kisses :)

    www.fashionizein.com

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  42. Ah-mazing combo, the blouse is to die for!

    Have a wonderful weekend!
    With love,
    Suzy ♥

    THE KAWAII PLANET

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  43. You look so pulled together in this look!

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