Palm Trees & Beach Breeze

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Top, Blazer, Pants and Jewelry: Forever 21. Top (under): H&M. Heels: Payless. Bag: vintage.

Today was gorgeous and mild–perfect for shooting next to the water. This outfit is a prime example of using inexpensive items that look pricier than they are to create a look that’s chic, trendy and perfect for spring. When I first eyed this palm tree printed high-low top in the store, I thought, “What the hell would I do with that?!”, but I’ve found it’s those types of pieces that make the biggest statement and can really pull an outfit together in an eye-catching, distinctive way. To match the top I paired a sleeveless button-down sundress, which I left open to even out the proportions of the outfit. I added simple black cords, then a healthy dose of white with the collarless blazer and sandals. I finished with black and gold accessories for a more glamorous feel.

‘Til next time,
Laura

Color Play

Dress and Blazer: Urban Outfitters. Bag: H&M. Heels: Charlotte Russe.

Hi everyone! Today I wore a floral dress, which you may have seen before in my post “Think Spring“. I paired it with a cropped green corduroy blazer that I got years ago and wish I wore more often–I love it! I added a coral/nude bag and a matching hair bow, which picked up the subtle, orange hue in the dress. Around my waist I wore a lavender scarf, tied in a bow, and layered a silver belt over it. I recently saw this on Pinterest and thought it was quite ingenius. To finish I paired standard black pumps with a streak of silver–one of my all-time favorites (and most worn). Although there are many colors and a lot going on in this look, I think it works because every shade is picked up in the dress! (That’s one of the reasons I love floral print so much).

Oh and by the way, my little furry friend is named Finnigan. He kept trying to sabotage my shoot, so I thought, why not just incorporate him into it?

Hope you have a lovely weekend!

Thanks for stopping by,
Laura

Striped Statement

Jacket: Macy’s. Top and Bag: H&M. Pants and Jewelry: Forever 21. Wedges: DSW.

Hooray for spring trends! Graphic stripes, checks, and diamonds were all over the runways–and my favorite bloggers!–and when I saw these awesome striped pants a few weeks ago I snatched them up right away. Although this graphic pattern makes the biggest statement with other black and white pieces, I couldn’t resist pairing it with a bright neon orange top. I can’t help it–I love color! Especially on days like today, which was warm and sunny for the first time in weeks. More spring looks soon!

Thanks for reading,
Laura

Polar Pastels

Jacket: Forever 21. Top and Scarf: H&M. Pants: Target. Loafers: Urban Outfitters.

As you may be able to tell, I’m having a moment with patterned pants. They’re trendier than their brethren–patterned tops, while still incredibly easy to style. My foolproof matching technique is simple: pick a color or 2 from the pants, and 1 or 2 neutrals as well to complete the look. You’ll be sure to achieve a nice balance of colors while letting the pattern speak for itself. For this particular outfit, I highlighted the icy shades of blue and pink to create a perfect winter-into-spring look. I have 2 or 3 more pairs of patterned pants to style and post so bear with me…

Coming up are more trendy pieces, including stripes, florals (what’s new?) and neon.

Thanks for stopping by,
Laura

Collegiette

Dress and Blouse (under): Charlotte Russe. Blazer: vintage. Flats: Steve Madden. Backpack: Amerileather.

Today I channeled my girly side with this feminine but collegiate look. I love the contrast of girly bows and ruffles with traditionally male pieces: a wool blazer, gold watch, and leather backpack. Let me know what you think!

Thanks for reading,
Laura

Amped-Up Florals

Top, Jeans, and Purse: Target. Vest: H&M. Flats and Accessories: Forever 21.

Hi everyone–long time! My photographer (boyfriend) was out of town last week and sadly I wasn’t able to take any photos. I’m back in action now, though, so get ready for more bright, springy posts to come!

A few years back I was obsessed with the floral trend, but lately I’ve been put off by its overtly girly look. However, recently I’ve come to love it again–especially on pants!–but this time I’m wearing the trend in more of an urban, edgy style rather than the youthful, girly look of my past. I like to think it’s more sophisticated and college-appropriate.

Thanks for stopping by,
Laura

Flower Power

Blazer, Jeans, Heels, Jewelry and Sunnies: Forever 21. Top: vintage.

Today (Saturday) was a good day for me; I wore this 60s-reminiscent look featuring many new items from my recent spring shopping excursion to do another go-round at the mall. My boyfriend and I left with a few pairs of shoes and full bellies from eating at the Cheesecake Factory, which is easily my favorite chain restaurant. Yum! I really love how the outfit and post turned out; please let me know what you think! Have a safe and relaxing weekend everyone!

Peace,
Laura

Spring Fever

Dress: thrifted. Sweater: Ross. Scarf and Coat: H&M. Booties and Socks: American Eagle Outfitters. Bag: Urban Outfitters. Jewelry: Forever 21.

Today I arrived in DC after a long, relaxing break at home. I was immediately surprised when I stepped outside of Reagan Airport to find clear skys and mid-50s weather. It was a good 20 degrees warmer than Maine! The gorgeous weather had me itching for spring, which is reflected in my bright magenta dress, and bare arms and legs. Is anyone else ready for winter to be over?

Thanks for reading!

Laura