In My Closet: Playing the [Lace] Card

Burgundy cardigan (HCo., winter 2011); burgundy plaid tunic (A&F Kids, hand-me-down); dark grey lace shorts (A&F Kids, NEW); grey polka dot tights (Target, fall 2011)

Despite being a self-proclaimed girly girl, I didn't have any lace in my closet prior to this fall! I was always a little intimidated by it, not to mention I thought it either looked too "grandma-ish" or too "babyish". Luckily, I've changed my mind, and now I'm a lace lover.

Hot pink cropped cardigan (A&F, winter 2010); navy lace tank with pinstripe waist tie (A&F Kids, NEW); dark wash slim boot jeans (AE, winter 2010)

Light pink cardigan (A&F, winter 2011); dark grey lace-front tee (HCo., fall 2011); owl pendant (AE, fall 2011); brown woven leather belt (A&F, spring 2011); burgundy twill shorts (A&F, summer 2010); grey polka dot tights (Target, fall 2011)

Do you love lace?

OOTD: Business Casual

Blue pinstriped button-down (Gilly Hicks, NEW); navy culottes (A&F, summer 2011); navy sparkle tights (AE, winter 2010)

Silver bead necklace (AE, NEW)

I haven't done an OOTD (outfit of the day post) in awhile, and what better time to start up again than the start of school? I'm back for my fourth semester in college, and while I'm thinking it's going to be a stressful one, I hope I learn a lot! 

Silver sequin sparkly flats (AE, winter 2010)

Jeweled snake ring (AE, NEW)

I ordered this button-down shirt right after Christmas, thanks to some great sales at Gilly Hicks. It looks pretty 'business-y' and professional, so I decided to make it look more playful by pairing it with my favorite bottoms--culottes--and sparkly tights and shoes. I added in some shiny jewelry and I was all set for a day of classes!

Do you like to dress business casual?

Lust Looks of [August]

With my birthday this week, the beginning of August in just a few days and another school year starting in about a month, I've been thinking a lot lately about what I want my style to be this fall. There are so many new pieces I'm lusting after in my favorite stores, but how can I create foolproof outfits from them? I turned to Polyvore to round up a few of my current fashion obsessions and combine them to make the perfect look for any occasion.

SURF PREPPY

(From left to right): Zuma Beach sweatshirt (in navy, HCo., $39.50, Epic Only), Beacon's Beach striped cotton skirt (HCo., $49.50), Classic Beach Flip Flops (in navy flower, HCo., $39.50), Classic Messenger Bag (in navy, HCo., $49.50), turquoise retro sunglasses, Victoria's Secret Eau de Toilette in Fresh and Clean ($15), OPI Nail Polish (in blue shatter)

RUGGED CHIC

(All items from American Eagle): AEO Desert Boot (in sand, $59.50), AEO Studded Concho Belt ($19.95), AEO Floral Scarf ($24.50), AE Distressed Denim Cutoff Shortie ($29.95), AE Off-Shoulder Dolman Sweater (in heather ice, $49.50)

PRETTY POLISH

Nina Vannah pink espadrille sandals (zappos.com, $90), Embellished Leather Belt (in navy, Abercrombie Kids, $34.50), hot pink plastic bangle, Summer Beach Totes (in navy ruffle, Abercrombie Kids, $29.50), Maddy lace tank (in white, Abercrombie Kids, $79.50), Gwyneth polka dot skirt (in navy, Abercrombie Kids, $29.70)


What are you lusting after for August?

New Style in the New Year

2011 has just begun and what better time to switch up your style, even a little bit? Stores are still offering their post-Christmas clearance prices and new spring stuff is just arriving. If you've always wanted to try something new with your wardrobe, why not start right now?

• GIRLY: Never been the type to like delicate pieces? Why not try to incorporate a few into your closet. Spring is one of the best seasons for all things feminine--floral shirts, flouncy skirts and the cutest accessories abound. American Eagle has some great new things you can add in with your winter stuff now, or wait a few months to wear. Try the AE Layered Floral Cami ($34.50) or the AE Skinny Leather Belt ($19.50).
• EDGY: Ready for a little more 'rough & tumble'? You don't need a tough girl attitude to pull this style off (though it doesn't hurt!) Try the new AE Slouchy Jean ($39.95, in navy cloud) and the AE Jeweled T-Strap Sandal ($29.50)--they'll look extra-edgy together!
• SPORTY: Shying away from the 'jockette' look? Don't be--it can be totally fierce if you do it right. Start off with a bright jacket, like Hollister's Fountain Valley ($79.50, in red), put on a contrasting swimsuit underneath (Warner Springs, $39, in coral) and you'll be ready for some beach volleyball!
• CLASSIC: Don't mistake this for boring--it's actually preppy and professional. A&F has some great ways to try this out...like the Marisa button-down ($58)--it's the basic striped blouse with a colorful twist--or the Addison pants ($40.60)--twill pants go with everything and the cuffs are unexpected.

Make a fashion resolution in the new year...resolve to try something new and a little out of your comfort zone--you'll never know unless you try!