Outfits Not Just Clothes

blazer-Gap(similar here ), sweater-BCBGMAXAZRIA(similar here ), skirt-H&M(similar here ), booties-DSW(similar here ) The pleated midi-skirt is quite the hot item here this season. And like all trendy numbers you have to find the best version that suits you. I'm on the fence about the midi in these OOTD shots. In truth I'm on the fence about pleated midi-skirts in general. Don't get me wrong, they can be super chic, but they tend to be an easier garment to pull off for the naturally wasp-waisted/hourglass gals. Fuller, pleated skirts in general lend themselves to a more feminine styling, which isn't my usually bag, so I tried to counter that with the blazer and boots to create a bit of sartorial tension. In reviewing these shots, I think the blazer doesn't work, too much material, a more fitted/cropped sweater would have been a more flattering option. What say you? 

It's still arctic temps here in Pittsburgh, hence I am still mostly existing in fleece leggings and oversized flannels. In the meantime I've picked up a few keys pieces for warmer, more fashionable days ahead.  Tunic Tee I've had my eye on this top from ModCloth for quite some time. Their post-Xmas sale made it such a great deal that I couldn't resist. I can see this doing a lot of work in my wardrobe, being able to layer it over thermal shirts, under cardigans and button-downs, worn with jeans or knit skirts--more on that to come... Peplum Top For a bit of pretty I also picked up this printed blouse from the MC. I'm not a huge fan of peplum, but the looser silhouette makes me think the fit will be flattering. Overall it feels simple and fresh, no?  Merino Blend Skirt And speaking of skirts, this easy piece from Uniqlo is going to be another great go-to here this winter. Definitely looking to pair it with the olive tunic tee above, as...

coatigan- Le Tote , vest/skirt-H&M(similar here and here ), boots-ModCloth(similar here ), scarf- American Apparel   A bit of dark romance to round out these week's worth of OOTD posts. I've been hitting the androgyny aesthetic pretty hard, and awesomely I might add, as seen here , here and here . For this post I went more fem, but still with menswear flair thank's to the vest. I don't often bust out midi-skirts, or skirts in general, and I have to admit I'm not "feeling" this look as much as I was with earlier ensembles this week. I love the mix of checks with orchids, and of course the layering, but I think there's a better way to execute this look. What say you? Play pretend stylist on me?  

In this post I highlighted some recent online orders, and my ongoing quest for the perfect-for-me white blazer for this season.  I've also picked up a few more casual pieces: Old Navy Shirtdress Gap Tee-Shirt Dress True, these first two dress are similar in that both are striped, but I see the shirtdress as a breezy office option, while the oversized T-shirt number would be great for transitioning into fall.  Gap Midi Skirt I've experimented with midi skirts in the past, with unsuccessful results. This version, with its elasticized waistband I feel will be not only flattering, but also versatile in that I can play around with where it sits on my torso. Plus I love this color, so fresh!  Old Navy Denim Romper  Oh Rompers... I like the IDEA of rompers and jumpsuits, but it's a rare day that I'm able to pull one off IRL... I have high hopes for this number, I always have the option of returning it, which doesn't mean failure on my ...