Tuesday, September 18, 2012

Crunching Numbers and Staying Classy.

For as long as I can remember I have idolized my older sister.  She was always cool, calm and collected. I actually have to give her credit for fueling my obsession with monograms and fashion.  Although we have different styles now, I will always love my sister's polished, 'J.Crew' look.  Since high school Jenna has dressed conservatively and preppy. This continued during her college career at the University of Virginia.  Her closet is filled with pieces from J.Crew, Banana Republic, Anthropologie, etc. Her job as an accountant does not give her much room in regards to dressing fashionably for work, but on weekends she puts together some memorable and charming outfits.
With my residence being in Missouri and my sister being in DC, I asked her to take some pictures of her favorite monogrammed items as well as other pieces from her closet.  Maybe you'll get inspiration from her pieces, I know I do!

Prim and Proper in Lilly Pulitzer.

Precious Polka Dots from Anthropologie.


Living it up in Ireland in a colorful scarf, Michael Kors watch, and comfy Patagonia fleece.
University of Virginia, Wahoowa! Adorable monogrammed tote bag in her school colors, such a cute gift idea!

Winter necessities - plaid scarves and an over sized leather tote.

Monogrammed iPhone case from Lipstick Shades.

More monogrammed totes - love the neon green on the blue!

So many pretty necklaces. The big pearl 'J' is the same one I wear all the time! It is from John Wind Jewelry, find it here. The pearl necklace is from a farmer's market in Charlottesville! Both monogrammed necklaces are from boutiques in St. Louis, Melanie's and Apple of Your Eye.


Loafers have always been in style in my opinion, but it seems that they'll be bigger than ever this Fall. You can also never go wrong with Tory Burch flats!

Kate Spade purse - I always have to borrow this when I visit her!

A little out of her comfort zone, but she bought this at Urban Outfitters ( I convinced her to) and I know she'll get so many compliments when she wears it out this Fall!

Cutest shirts from J.Crew - both would look great with colored corduroys or jeans!

Perfect ensemble with skinny jeans and boots! Sweater is from Ann Taylor and the button-up is from J.Crew.
A birthday present received from me, the cutest wall monogram! Find one for yourself at the Pink Monogram.

Simple yet classy outfit for work. White lace skirt and a navy top.
 
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I hope to do more closet raids in the future! It's always fun to see my friends and family's distinct styles.
 
"What you wear is how you present yourself to the world, especially when contacts are so quick. Fashion is instant language."
-Miuccia Prada
 
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Keep Calm and Monogram On
xo eHr

 
 
 


 


Monday, September 17, 2012

Academic Apparel.

I'm back! I'm sorry for the long break between posts! My senior year has started and with it I have hit the ground running. Leading the blog for the Association of Textile and Apparel Management, working at Swank Boutique, trying to still maintain a social life, and keeping up with school work I have had very little time to do anything else!
After being a full-time athlete for so many years, I am relieved to be able to attend class with dry hair and not smell like cholorine.  I can actually take the time to look decent for class which I think is always a good thing.  I don't see a point in wasting a closet full of great clothes to only wear on the weekend! I've also talked to my professors in the Textile and Apparel Management (fancy name for Fashion Merchandising) department and some have told me they can not stand it when they see girls wearing gym shorts and a t-shirt to class. Now,  I'm not trying to say that we should all be wearing skirts, cardigans and Mary-Jane's to class. I just believe that it looks so much better and more professional when people take the time to get ready and not show up with half-curled hair from the previous night and smeared mascara or an oversized sweatshirt with leggings and Uggs (spare us all, please).
Also with the weather finally cooling down, I can pack away my shorts and pull out my jeans, boots, sweaters and scarves! I loved the warm weather year-round while I was attending Florida State but when I moved back to the Mid-West it made me remember how much I love dressing for cooler weather.  You have so many more options with outfits.  Layering, beautiful colors (burgundy, jade, taupe), tights, turtlenecks, and the list goes on!
I chose my outfit today based on the fact that this morning I looked out my window and was disappointed to see gloomy weather so I decided to brighten my day up with my attire. Enjoy!

 
I found these eye-popping red pants at Gap and knew I had to have them for Fall.  I can't wait to pair them with some boots and a chunky sweater! The pants are so soft and comfortable! Find them on the Gap website here.
 
 


 
I found this blouse at Ann Taylor Loft and loved it. It's simple and chic. At first glance it looks like little black polka dots, but they're actually tiny stars! The tuxedo style with the ruffles adds just the right amount of feminine touch. The blouse comes in Navy, Red, and White, order it here.


These black flats are perfect for walking to class. They're easy and comfortable.  I've recently become obsessed with Yosi Samra Flats which have a durable rubber sole and can fold up and be thrown into a tote or backpack if needed! You can find them at Swank Boutique or on the Yosi Samra website.
 
 
I think a black or khaki trench coat can add such a classy, polished look to any fall outfit! I wear mine all the time! I love the coats at Banana Republic. Check them out here.
 
 
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I hope everyone had a great end to their summers and are enjoying the transition into fall! Football games, bonfires, apple picking, haunted houses...the list is endless of fun fall activities! I would love to hear ideas from you for things to do!
 
Also, I'd love to see or hear about your daily outfits!
 
 
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Have a wonderful week, maybe you can enjoy your first caramel apple of the season!
Keep Calm and Monogram On
xo eHr