Outfits Not Just Clothes

Around this time every August I find myself the deep throes of outfit fatigue, this summer more than ever.  These past two months have just been miserably hot and the only thing I can stand to wear day in and day out are my cutoffs and tank tops. Even if it weren't for the heat, since I'm working from home, I've not been outfitting in my daily life. But with my birthday and fall right around the corner I've been engaging in some retail therapy and dreaming of the chilly days and potential outfits ahead.   First up, some tough girl buys from Nordstrom's Anniversary Sale Topshop Faux Leather Jacket Block Heel Combat Boot How killer are these boots and this jacket. In a normal times I'd be planning not only how, but where I could style this badass combo. With jeans and flannel shirt for some outdoor day drinking at a local brewery. Or with v-neck sweater and plaid trousers for weekday lunch meetup, oh definitely pair them up with a girly flirty dress for date night...

So, last week I discovered that all of my "rage" walking completely wore through the soles of my go-to outdoor sneakers! This pair, I've had since 2014 from Old Navy, so for what I paid they lasted quite a long time, accompanying me on many hikes and adventures.  However, to replace them I decided to go with a proper pair of trail sneakers: Bare Access XTR Trail Runners by Merrell from Nordstrom I like that they are neutral, but also have some pops of color. The tread seems quite impressive, perfect for hiking, as well as my walks up and down the grassy hills in the cemetery near my house.  I also picked up this summer-dress: All in Favor Tiered Dress in Jersey also from Nordstrom. After the hot, scorching, muggy, humid, miserable July I desperately  need something simple, in a natural fiber, that has pockets and isn't too schlubby to wear around the house.  This tiered easy frock I think will be just the ticket.  Delivery expected tomorrow!  

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...

My Year of No Shopping announced last September has been a bust! I've strayed from my self-imposed fast over a dozen times. Why? Well because I love clothes, and good deals, and evolving my personal style. Here are the  main culprits.... Slingbacks from H&M I'm DO need a summer slip-on shoe for work, an alternative to loafers if you will.  Jacket Dress from H&M This dress was on sale and I wore it a few times over the holidays before featuring here in this post . It hits all of my current criteria for a dresses--easy fit, versatile, interesting, and has pockets!  Vans Also, wanted/needed an easy slip-on casual shoe, as seen in this post .  Shift from Anthropologie This layering piece was such a good deal, and in a color I don't often wear. This post shows how it's an easy-throw-on piece to add some color to a basic black outfit.  Cardigan from Anthropolige This cardigan speaks to my new-found lust fo...

Autumn is right around the corner, and there's no season I like better than fall! The turning of the weather, the orange-drenched sunsets, the crisp smell in the air, and of course autumnal style is right up my alley! Soon, I will begin another year-long hiatus from shopping , more to come. So, I've been stocking up on garments for the fall/winter. Here are some of my best finds: First up, dresses! Anthropologie What's more fall, than a plaid shift? Loving the color palette of grey and pink, which will transition into winter and early spring of 2017. #stylestrategy Mango Do I already have several LBDs? Yes, but I don't have a really quality black sweater-dress with pockets. Pockets are key! H&M This midi-shift is definitely outside my usual style wheelhouse. I'm loving the 30's-esque print and the flared sleeves, I see them poking out of a navy blazer come fall.   Nordstrom Can one have too much plaid? Hell's to the no!...

This week I picked up a few office essentials for the coming spring/summer.  Cardigan I'm thinking this will be my go-to office cardi when the AC makes it impossible not have another layer at hand. I like that it's neutral, but interesting with the piping and it has pockets!  Vest This vest is definitely more "fall" in terms of the plaid and woolly material, HOWEVER the light grey and pink palette is a nod to springtime, AND vests are great blazer alternatives for warm-weather workwear. Plus, I can just wear all-black underneath and still have an outfit going on, instead of just clothes.  Jumpsuit Technically, I can't wear this to work, but I think with the right topper (like the vest above) I can get away with an uber-comfy jumpsuit for days when I don't have meetings. Plus, this will be a great thrown-on piece for casual days.   Ankle Trousers I have these trousers in black and plaid, and they are great for work. Easy to wear, pro...

I'll be back to my full time job next week and I definitely have mixed emotions. While I'm ready to "return to the world" so to speak, I've really enjoyed my time at home with my baby. In preparation I've picked up a few items to easy the transition. First off, some back-to-work clothes! Anthropologie Yep, that's a umbrella/raindrop print on this blouse, how perfect for spring! I can't decide if i want to bust this out next week, or wait until April showers are in full effect...   Who What Wear from Target I was really excited to hear about Who What Wear's collaboration with Target, and the first collection offered solid basics and easy work-wear pieces. Loving the bright blue of this top, which will be a great bit of color under blazers at the office.  Uniqlo I have the same cut of pants in plaid, seen here and here , and I am in dire need of a standard black pant (as my pre-pregnancy pairs don't yet fit, and my mat...