Look of the Day: Floral School Girl

I was a little wary that this floral blouse might be a bit too loud, but I took the challenge and ordered it. I'm so happy I did! It's just the thing to go under this little dress and goes perfectly with my new polka dot clutch.

This head cold is sucking my energy to write. Some blogger I am! Hopefully I will have more to say next week :/

Ok, maybe I can muster the strength to say one thing. Thank you so much for reading and commenting! As much as I love fashion and blogging, it would be pointless without other people, right? Friends are what make anything worthwhile.

Vintage school dress - Blouse c/o Romwomen - Hansel from Basel clutch - vintage silver shoes

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Look of the Day: California Chambray

 Last weekend, I took a trip down to California to watch my mom argue her dissertation. She is now a doctor! I can't believe how far she's come, especially considering none of her siblings have a college degree. I am incredibly proud of her.

I, on the other hand, managed to cut myself on a loaf of bread. Obvi did not get her brain genes.

I was happy to have such a special occassion to wear my very first, hand-altered dress to. I actually sewed! I took the dress in at the waist, shortened the straps, and removed decorations on the bodice. It's not exactly the type of chambray dress I've been looking for (maxi shirtdress, please), but I still think it's lovely and I'm so proud of myself for sewing. I think I am getting more patient in my old age. 

American Deadstock sunglasses - GAP cardigan - Koshka polka dot clutch - Sam Edelman flats - vintage chambray dress

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Look of the Day: Orchid Maxi Dress + Vintage Denim

Here are a few of my latest thrift store spoils. I found the Levi's denim jacket in the kid's section. Really, I should thank my sister-in-law for pointing it out. It's quite a find! It has a big 'E' on the red tab instead of a lowercase 'e'. Based on the size of the tag inside, the design of the buttons, and the absence of handwarmer pockets we think it was made sometime in the year 1969. I still need to take it to Insurrection in Greenwood to confirm everything, but I'm fairly confident it is that old! Kinda wish it had pockets, though...

The dress is from the 1970s, I believe. I wore it, and the jacket, to the fashion show at the SAM. If you're interested in the dress, it's available through my Etsy shop.

I'm a little sad to see this dress go. It's so pretty, both in print and fit. I have so many floral maxis, though, that I figured I should share. The empire waist is probably my favorite part.

 It has a back vent so you can actually walk in it. It makes it all the prettier, too.

Oasap Sugar Linked Necklace - Vintage Maxi Dress - Vintage Levi's Denim Jacket - MIA flats

Steals & Deals at Romwomen

Chic under $100 by fleur-d-elise featuring a crossbody purse

This week, I'm partnering with Romwomen to spread the word about a great promotion they're having. When you spend $85+ you get $10 worth of free jewelry! 

You could get an entirely new outfit for that much! My picks are this color-blocked jacket, a blue sequined dress that could be dressed up or down, and this cute, little heart purse. To finish off the look, I'd probably go for these bright pink chain earrings. What's better than free jewelry??
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6 Un-boring Coats for Fall

Summer is almost over and, as always, I'm a little bummed. The colder months can seem so monotonous. The picnics are over, the warm weather is gone, and everyone gets back to the grind. Your wardrobe doesn't have to be that way, though, and you shouldn't ever feel like you're having to cover up your outfit just to stay warm. Your coat should be a part of the look! If you're tired of your cold weather outerwear, it's time to freshen things up. Here are six great pieces that will keep you both warm and chic.

1. Sleek & Minimalist

Photo: Elizabeth Lippman for New York Times

A collarless coat looks crisp and grown-up when paired with a preppy oxford. Think how much simpler wrapping a scarf will be as well! This wool coat from H&M is a steal at $79.95

2. Fall Colored

Photo: Candice Lake

On those dark days when you're just tired of the dreary weather, or your dreary outerwear, brighten up your outfit with a coat in orange, burgundy, or even mustard yellow. Try this orange blazer.

3. Oversized & Textured

Photo: Stockholm Street Style

Probably my favorite look for Fall is the oversized coat, especially in marled textures. It's subtly ridiculous and looks so good with other black and white patterns! The one shown above is available at Oasap.

4. Quirky & Detailed

Photos: Candice Lake and Vanessa Jackman

If your outerwear boredom hasn't been solved, then experiment with crazy patterns and interesting details. A motojacket with contrasting sleeves might be the fix, or try one in banana print from Top Shop. If the banana pattern is a little too wild, go for something more abstract in black and white. It will be easier to coordinate. Zara has a gorgeous jaquard print coat for $119.

5. Relaxed in a cinch

Photo: Happy, Honey & Lark

If you live in a climate similar to Seattle's, you probably won't need a heavy coat till November or so. Until then, a curve-accentuating anorak will do just fine. This one has the cutest little polka dots both inside and out! It's only $53 at Romwomen!

6. Cape Flattery

I've been wanting a cape for years. I had trouble finding the right fit, though. They always make me look huge or like I'm drowning (I'm not exactly that tall). One trick is to find the right length, or you can try a cape, like this sleek little number from Oasap, that has long lines and angles. Coupled with the gathered waist, these features mean you won't lose your shape.

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