A Walk On The Wild Side :: leopard coat + leather leggings

Allow me to introduce to you what could be referred to as my "uniform." Now, I actually despise uniforms in the traditional sense of the word, but in fashion, a go-to look (with slight variations according to your mood of course) is a total life - and time - saver! For me, that handy style formula is pretty generic. Take a peek:  

Every good uniform needs a statement piece, a more "wild" item if you will ;) This allows you to spice up the everyday, have a little fun with your look, and showcase your personality - everything a good outfit should bring out, right? And while leopard coats may not be for everyone, for ME a good leopard coat is a closet necessity. There's just something about this exotic print that's so adventurous yet classic. After all, leopard is a tried and true favorite. And good news: the iconic print isn't going anywhere! 

If there's one thing I have oodles of, it's button-up shirts. I like them oversized and in various fabrics and prints. This chambray blouse is a total winner that I find myself reaching for whenever I'm stumped about what to wear. I've had it for years (before chambray blouses were cool, if you can believe that) and it's been through quite a lot, but one thing will never change - a good chambray blouse will always be an important part of my uniform. 

Especially in winter, leather leggings are a go-to for me. But my uniform doesn't require them. Any super skinny pant works just as well, whether it be denim, ponte, or even cotton. And jeans with some rips? Even better! 

One of the most comfortable and versatile shoes out there are booties. I have countless styles and they never fail me. Trust - no matter what you're wearing a great booty will elevate it. And when you're in a rush? Well nothing beats the ease of throwing on a pair of these babies. 

Unless of course I'm having a bad hair day, a hat isn't a usual part of my uniform - but you can bet that unexpected accessories are! A hat is a surefire way to throw some color into your look and/or provide some interest to an otherwise simple ensemble.   

An everyday uniform obviously calls for some kind of purse to hold your day-to-day items. I like my bags to stand out and really reflect my mood as well as compliment my outfit. Oh and anything metallic is my best friend! 

I wear a watch every day so of course a watch has to be incorporated into my uniform. I have many different types but this one is such a fun alternative to a straight-up plain one. Creativity is essential in the magical uniform, people! 

This wouldn't be my uniform without some jewelry. I'm a total sucker for statement necklaces! This is one is a modern-styled piece that looks great with anything.  

Photos by Dan Harper

[coat: Ann Taylor (I also like this one) // chambray blouse: Madewell (similar here) // leather leggings: Ann Taylor (similar here) // pink beanie: Ann Taylor (similar here) // silver booties: Sam Edelman // necklace: Ann Taylor (old) // clutch: Carlo Fellini (I also like this one) // watch: Kate Spade // silver & rose gold cuff: Ted Baker // amethyst bangle: David Yurman // eyeshadow: Innerstellar palette by Kat Von D // lipstick: "Bare Pop" by Clinique] 

There you have it, the building blocks of my personal style and go-to look. Sometimes it's a problem how much I rely on a chambray blouse and skinnies but oh well, everyone has to have a signature :)

SHOP ::