Expect The Unexpected // button-down dress + jeans

Fall brings new styling opportunities and, for me, a newfound sense of adventure when it comes to my clothing. Here, I decided to take a bit of a risk and pair my button-down trench dress with super skinny jeans, resulting in a look that's a little daring with a whole lot of style. 

Invest in a button-down dress now and squeeze extra use out of it all through fall by transforming it into a tunic. Just unbutton the last few buttons and wear skinny pants underneath for a modern, so-cool vibe. I saw one of my favorite bloggers, Carrie Bradshaw Lied, do this, and couldn't resist trying out the look for myself! 

To add interest to this look, I finished it off with statement accessories like leopard heels, cat eye sunglasses, and extra large earrings. I'm always looking for ways to incorporate fun prints and trendy separates, and this neutral outfit served as a blank canvas for me. 

Photos by Antonio Owens 

[dress: Banana Republic (I also like this one) // jeans: Gap (similar pair here) // heels: Ann Taylor // clutch: Hobo (I also like this one) // sunglasses: Urban Outfitters // earrings: & Other Stories // necklace: fine jewelry (gift) // tortoise shell bangle: Ann Taylor (I also like this one) // lip color: Marc Jacobs Beauty lipstick in "Miss Scarlet"]

Although cooler temps (and less humidity) can't come quicker in NYC, I'm trying to soak up these last days of warm weather because I know I'll be missing it soon enough. This ensemble serves as the perfect compromise during the summer-fall transition, and its drama is perfect for one last rooftop cocktail hour!

 // SHOP //

The Great Transition // white blouse + dress shorts

During the awkward time between summer and fall, I like to mix my outfits up, creating a hybrid look that's unique to this seasonless period. Shorts teamed with a long-sleeved blouse? Yes please! Let the transitioning begin.

I picked this blouse up from a Theory sample sale in the beginning of summer, and I’ve gotten so much use out of it so far. I’m a big believer in the crisp, white button-down, and with a slightly cropped fit and boyfriend slouch, this one is a chic take on the classic. 

My favorite footwear for this in-between time is the peep-toe sock bootie. With elements of both a summer and winter shoe, the heels are perfect for pairing with skirts and shorts OR jeans and maxi dresses. Not to mention, the fabric is super breathable and comfy! 

 Photos by Dan Harper

[top: Theory // shorts: Banana Republic (similar style here) // shoes: Nic + Zoe // purse: Alice & Olivia // sunglasses: Ray-Ban // necklaces: Uncommon James // earrings: Jennifer Zeuner // watch: Marc Jacobs // lip color: Bite Beauty Liquified Lipstick in "Whip"]

Disregarding the wicked heatwave NYC has been experiencing this week, fall is coming! We got a small taste of it last week when temps dipped into the high 70s and humidity was at an all-time low. I can't wait for that to be the norm! I think I'm most excited about rocking blazers and jackets. Is there anything you can't wait to start styling once fall officially hits?

// SHOP //

On The Bright Side // graphic tee + windowpane blazer

Although warmer temps aren't going anywhere yet, it's always bittersweet when summer begins to wrap up. It means bidding farewell to longer days, rooftop happy hours, and weekend beach trips. But on the bright side? Less sweat, more layers, and endless outfit opportunities.

Due to the sweltering NYC heat, I haven't busted out a blazer since springtime. But I knew when I finally did, I'd begin with this checkered cutie. Transforming a casual jean-shorts-and-tee look into something much more charming and versatile, I think it's the perfect piece to headline my wardrobe's transition into autumn. 

Does it get any better than optimism on a graphic tee? Not only does this shirt project positivity, but its bold lettering and cheerful message is both stylish and smile-inducing. Basically, IT’S SO MUCH FUN TO WEAR!

Photos by Sarah Harper

[blazer: Banana Republic (sold out, similar one here) // tee: J.Crew (I also like this one) // shorts: Banana Republic // slides: Nanette Lapore (I also like this pair) // purse: Trina Turk (I also like this one) // earrings: J.Crew (similar pair here) // watch: Fossil (I also like this style) // lip color: Marc Jacobs Beauty lipstick in "Oh Miley"]

Go ahead and label your favorite blazer a jacket; throw it on over anything and everything! They have the ability to make any combo look instantly polished and chic. For me, it completely revamped this off-duty summer look into something much more Fall and much less run-of-the-mill. But don't get me wrong! Summer, I love you. 

// SHOP //