You Had Me At Merlot // off-the-shoulder top + white jeans

Squeezing every last bit out of this warm weather we've been having, I restyled one of this year's biggest trends and made it work for autumn! Yep, I'm talking about off-the-shoulder tops! And in brilliant burgundy, this style can easily take you from summer to fall - bonus points for matching it to your lipstick ;)

Off-the-shoulder styles have ruled both the runways and sidewalks this past year. But just because temps have turned cooler, doesn't mean you have to cut this trend out of your rotation. Choose a top in a jewel tone and pair with long pants for a fall-appropriate combo. 

Obviously white jeans still look just as fabulous AFTER Labor Day as they did BEFORE Labor Day. In fact, they're quite fresh for fall! I love teaming white denim with edgier, more moody pieces to make them pop -- perfect for a daytime autumn look.

Lace-up heels are continuing to have a major moment, which is super exciting for me because I can't get enough of these gorgeous shoes. They're easy to wear with, well, everything! They truly give any look a stylish upgrade. 

A black patent leather clutch is your solution to finding that go-with-everything bag that's both sophisticated and versatile. And in an oversized version like this one, it also fits all of your necessities...unlike SOME clutches you may know. 

When wearing an off-the-shoulder top, I tend to go minimal with my jewelry. But like always, I love making an impact. These mismatched geometric earrings are dainty, modern, and JUST unique enough to demand attention. 

Refresh your daytime beauty with shiny bronzes and shimmering taupes. Add a smudge of black eyeliner into the lash line using an angled brush, then finish the look off with layers of mascara for serious smolder. 

Dialing up the drama is easy to do this time of year. And with burgundy added into the mix, it's simpler than ever! Think lustrous jewel tones, rich textures, and crisp silhouettes when looking to achieve a feminine polish with a captivating new edge.  

Photos by Dan Harper 

[top: Ann Taylor (I also like this one) // jeans: Loft // heels: Ann Taylor (similar style here) // clutch: Hobo (similar style here) // earrings: & Other Stories (I also like this pair) // gold link bracelet: Stella & Dot // amethyst bangle: David Yurman // heart tag bracelet: Tiffany & Co. // bangle: Alex & Ani // lipstick: Milk Makeup in "New Whip"] 

It's crazy to think that soon it'll be too cold to even step outside without a coat, which is why I'm embracing this Indian summer we're having and getting all the use I can out of my favorite warm-weather pieces. Because as most of you know, I am NOT a fan of winter! And while this look is brilliant for a fall date night, it's also great for brunch with a best girl friend, which is exactly where I went after taking these photos! 

 // SHOP //