Winter Blues

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It’s that time of the year when the whispers of Spring that peak through Winter’s doldrums make you long for warmer temps and sunny skies. One good sign Spring is on its way is that I can bust out my holey jeans. In the Winter months it’s usually too cold but come Summer they’re a great way to wear denim and keep cool. Pair them with a long cardi to keep you cozy and you have a great seasonal transition outfit. I love a good long cardi! They’re a great alternative to a blazer and allow for a little more comfy vibe. By now you know how I feel about hats, especially fedora types – a great way to add interest and give your blow dryer a day off ;).

 

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Photo credit: Amie Akers

Hat and Cardi by H&M – similar cardi here, Shirt by Sincerely Jules, Jeans and Boots by Zara, Watch by Michael Kors, Heart Ring and Necklace by Tiffany&Co

 

 

Monochrome State of Mind

I’ve never been interested in rules of fashion. In fact, I was embracing trends long before I knew there was such a thing. I’ve always felt like rules were meant to be bent, nowhere more so than in fashion. Here is one that I actually can get behind though – monochromatic dressing. As someone who needs 2 inch heels to reach 5 feet tall and is constantly asking people to reach the top shelf in the grocery store, I can appreciate anything that makes me look taller. The trick is to add interest by playing with texture. Here I’ve played with knits and leather and added layered wrist-wear for a little extra something. After all, every girl needs a little bling ;).

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Hint: Any writing on your jewelry should be worn so those looking at it can read it right-side up.

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Photos by Amie Akers

Pants by H&M – similar here and here.
Sweater by BCBG – similar here.
Scarf by Zara – similar here and here.
Watch by Cluse.
Bracelet by Michael Kors – similar here.
Cuff bracelet by BaubleBar.
Glasses by Krewe – similar here.

New Year’s Dreams

Today started a new year and with all this beautiful snow at our lake cabin I couldn’t resist a walk on nature’s blank slate. It was as if nature knew we were all starting over and wanted to join in! Our lake cabin has always been my second home so it’s only appropriate to celebrate the holidays here. The property has been in our family for almost 60 years! One of my favorite things is to go for a walk amongst the trees and down paths that have watched me grow up over the years. Today as I walked, I reflected on the year past and wondered what 2016 would bring. As Socrates said, “The unexamined life is not worth living,” and this time of year brings ample reminders to be mindful and purposeful in the year to come. Having just celebrated all of life’s blessings amongst family and friends, we give thanks for the things God  has given us. It is under that influence that we are invited to see what we may endeavor to contribute in the coming year. As someone who has always enjoyed dreaming and setting goals, I revel in the chance to indulge in that for the coming year. The challenge is to set goals that are both beneficial and achievable. So this year as you set your sights on the seasons ahead, remember to set one goal each for improving yourself, your relationships, and your community. After all, our resolutions are just reminders to live a life more mindful of others and less involved in ourselves.

 

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Coat by Michael Kors – similar here and here. Scarf and hat from Harajuku WEGO – similar here. Gloves and boots from H&M – similar here and here. Diamond Earrings – similar here.

Photos taken by DJ Kelley and edited by Amie Akers.

Faux Fur and Firsts

 

This is a first for me. I have been a lover of fashion since my dad brought me home a pair of sparkly ruby red slippers from his business trip to Paris when I was 4. Over the years I have been fascinated by the innumerable ways we can express ourselves through what we wear. Before we say a word, we’ve told a story about ourselves. With the help of my amazingly talented friend Amie Akers as my photographer, I am finally able to document some of these fashion stories for you. I hope you enjoy!

Winter means layers, faux fur, and any excuse to turn snowflakes into snuggles. There’s something so innately glamorous about colder weather that makes us need layers of cashmere and faux fur. Even though this has been an unseasonably warm December for us here in The Mitten, I’m still busting out my winter layers :).

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I also LOVE a good jewel. Why not layer some sparkle?

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Coat by Michael Kors – similar here, blouse by Zara – similar here, pants by Gap here, shoes by BCBG – similar here, cocktail ring by Alexis Bittar from the Winter Box of Style.