Thursday, May 29, 2014

Style Staples- Fashion Inspiration and Essentials


There's no point in denying it: I love clothes. And shoes. And coats. And accessories. And everything remotely related to fashion. But sadly, you can't have it all; although I'd probably be close if I had unlimited cash. So I try and make what I do have super versatile. I love to find inspiration on Pinterest (that's where all my photos are from), and find affordable pieces from yard-sales and sales, recreating outfits and ideas.

There's certain style staples that I find essential (some I am still looking for) that can go with anything and everything, through all seasons. I'm going to go through some of my favorites, and inspirations, to maybe help out anyone who needs guidance. I  am done growing at this point in life, but I still have to remember: you get what you pay for. While most of my clothes last a looong time, sometimes if you want a good-looking, quality piece of clothing you do have to pay a bit more.



            

Coats  are definitely one of my weaknesses. But they're essential for those cold winter days. They are great to layer pieces underneath, and they go with everything. Classic cuts and colors (camel, red, navy) will make the search for the rest of your outfit easy. Make sure you find good-quality to ensure it will last forever.

   
I am hoping to someday make the investment to buy a leather jacket. Lets be honest, they look cool and put together and they go with everything. They're a classic look. I love this outfit on the right because it's just perfect. It has the cute down jacket for when a peacoat isn't quite warm or flexible enough, with cute layers. the black skinny jeans go with everything, and are perfect when denim just won't do. The rainboots are great. They blend in with the bottom of the outfit, but keep your feet dry and warm. The hat and sunglasses speak for themselves. <3

 

I absolutely love my denim jacket. I found it at a yard-sale for 50 cents and I've had it for several years. It's comfy and goes with everything, and is great to wear with some of my colored jeans. Great for layering because it's not heavy. Cardigans are also a must. They are also key for layering (and can go under that denim jacket ;) ). They're great for when you don't really need a jacket, but need something to keep the chill off. You can usually find cardis for pretty cheap, also. 

  

I love both of the outfits in these pictures! So precious. And some inspiration. The one on left is cool because it shows that you can focus on one color in your outfit without being too matchy-matchy. Again, cardigans are versatile, they go with everything. The right pic is a perfect example of layering and that your prints do not have to match (but they will still go). Rainboots bring a nice pop of color, without taking away from the rest of the outfit. 

 

I have worn the outfit on the left a few times and it's a nice twist on a simple look. Instead of having denim on top, move it to the bottom and pair it with black skinnies. Scarves are a great addition to any outfit, especially if you aren't great with a lot of accessories. It like the look in the middle because it's classy and simple. I try to remember that I can always use a nice blouse in an outfit without it having to be fancy. You can always dress-down blouses. Also, the color and peter-pan collar is super cute. I like the outfit on the right because it's a cute, simple, put-together look (again without being fancy). Obviously great for work. The cardi is a nice color, keeping the mood light. The grey pencil skirt looks professional, and if it fits correctly can be pretty comfy. And those pumps. Nude heels are a must. They work with everything, even more casual office looks, and can make your legs look super long. They're just a really classy look.



Ahhhh shoes. My whole closet would be full of shoes if I could afford it. I just love them so much; you can never have too many shoes. Knee-high boots are a must-have for a fall/winter wardrobe. I have a black and brown pair, and they're wonderful. They keep my tootsies warm, and look cute with knee-high socks underneath. And they really pull together any outfit and make it look very chic. Ankle boot are great for when you want that more casual put-together look. I'm looking for a good-quality pair like the ones on the right (above). And, I just really love the Mary-Janes in this picture. They look super comfy, and again, the nude color goes with anything.


Oh accessories. You're a close runner-up to boots for me. But very necessary. This purse is the style I have been looking for for a long time! I saw a woman with one very similar, and it was so cute! I love the crossbody style so that you can always have both hands and arms available, but you still have the short handles. The black is a classic look, because again it goes with everything. Hats. I am learning to love you more and more. Floppy hats are essential for summer, especially is you will be spending your time in the sun and at the beach (that's what I'm hoping to do). They're super cute and keep your face protected at the same time. And knitted hats are super-duper for winter. If you can find one that is a bit floppy, but fitted enough to stay on your head, you've figured it out. So cozy and warm, and add a little personality to every outfit. Scarfs and nail polish. Enough said.