Miss Hannah Marie

Closet Diary 2.14.12

2012-02-14T17:53:00.000-08:00

In honor of Valentine's Day, I put together a subtle pink and red outfit. I don't usually go all out in dressing for holidays, but this was both cute and comfortable for a long day of classes and essay writing. Plus I'm a huge fan of pairing stripes and florals together. They're so effortless to style and yet they make such a fun statement.

Unfortunately, with my boyfriend and I living a couple hours away from each other, we won't get to celebrate Valentine's Day together today. However, we saw each other over the weekend and had a special date night complete with a walk in the park, a fancy dinner, and presents. He gave me the sweetest necklace (which my scarf is covering in the photos) and I put together a "10 Things I Love About You" package for him. It was so fun to celebrate our first Valentine's Day together! The celebrating isn't over yet though. We're planning on seeing The Vow this weekend and I'm so excited!

I also had fun trying out a little nail art with a pretty Valentine's Day at-home manicure. I layered a metallic magenta polish over a glossy hot pink polish and hand-painted a heart on my ring finger. Even though it's not very visible, I still love the way it turned out!

Dress, scarf: Nordstrom
Tights: H&M
Boots: Kohls
Nails: Pretty in Pink by CQ, The Show Must Go On! by OPI

Seem a little different?

2012-02-13T16:39:00.000-08:00

I've been wanting to change up my blog for a while now and I finally took the first step in doing that. It's not exactly the way I want it yet, but getting a little much-needed face lift has made me much more excited about blogging. I've been in a slump for a while now, but I'm hoping this will help kick me into gear!

Closet Diary 12.1.11

2011-12-01T00:18:00.000-08:00

Technically December, but it still feels like fall and these earthy green and carmel tones just seem perfect right now. Plus I'm loving the layered ruffles in my top, skirt, and even my cardigan. Speaking of which, I just can't get enough of this cardigan lately! It's the perfect color to go with my favorite boots and it just seems to work with everything in my closet. I love pieces like that! I've also recently worn it here and here.

Cardigan, skirt: Modcloth
Lace top: Nordstrom BP.
Belt: Michael Kors
Tights: Hue
Boots: Kohl's

Closet Diary 11.24.11

2011-11-27T17:14:00.000-08:00

I loved playing with color and texture in this Thanksgiving dinner outfit. The floral skirt, magenta cardigan, lace top, and green woven belt are a bit of an eclectic mix, but I thought it came together nicely. Unfortunately, I didn't think about the fact that I was wearing a fairly tight, restrictive belt to Thanksgiving dinner until it was too late...

Cardigan: Love Culture
Top, skirt: Nordstrom BP.
Belt: Target
Tights: Hue
Boots: Kohl's

Closet Diary 11.22.11

2011-11-26T16:48:00.000-08:00

This is another outfit I wore while I was home for Thanksgiving. I love the pattern on this dress and I think navy and carmel make the perfect fall color combo.

Cardigan: Modcloth
Dress: F21
Tights: Hue
Boots: Kohl's
Belt: Michael Kors

Closet Diary 11.18.11

2011-11-25T19:38:00.000-08:00

Sometimes an outfit just feels very "me." This was definitely one of those outfits. I love how the vibrant floral top and white lace skirt pop against all the warm browns. And, although, I tend to tuck all my tops into my skirts, I love how this blouse looks belted and untucked. This is one of my favorite looks this fall.

Cardigan: Modcloth
Blouse: Tucker for Target
Belt: F21
Skirt: Target
Tights: Hue
Boots: Kohl's

2011 Holiday Wishlist

2011-11-24T13:46:00.001-08:00

2011 Holiday Wishlist

Just like I told my mom, for Christmas this year, I want warm!

That means:

- boots to keep my feet dry while walking to class

- cozy cardigans to layer under my coats

- fingerless gloves (and a matching hat)

- cute scarves

- an adorable floral printed raincoat

- a stylish messenger bag big enough to carry my laptop and all my books

- plus anything lace or floral!

As far as gadgets go, I'm hoping for a wireless remote for my Canon Rebel to make taking outfit pictures easier and a tiny iPod Nano, perfect for taking to the Rec Center or on runs!

Closet Diary 11.10.11

2011-11-10T21:53:00.001-08:00

I haven't worn this skirt in forever since its a little to short to wear bare-legged, but since tights season is back in full swing, I'm really excited to start remixing it again. It was such a versatile and well-worn piece last winter and spring! I also have a feeling this will be one of the last times I wear this top for a while since its colors are just a little too summery. I tried to make it a little more fall-appropriate by toning it down with warm, carmel colors and a dark pink cardigan.

Today was one of those days where I was ultimately dressed up just to go to the grocery store. I hate to waste a cute outfit, but in my defense, I was very excited to go grocery shopping today and went on a major health kick. Something about dorm food made my bag of fruits, veggies, hummus and pita bread seem like the best thing on earth! There was also some Dove Peppermint Bark (my favorite chocolate ever!) in that bag...which made it seem like heaven on earth. ;)

Cardigan: Love Culture
Top: Nordstrom
Lace skirt: Target
Belt: Michael Kors, gifted
Tights: Hue
Boots: Kohl's

Closet Diary 11.08.11

2011-11-09T23:57:00.000-08:00

Although it was randomly pieced together, I absolutely loved this look! The varying shades of brown with the evergreen skirt were perfect fall colors together and I love the lace and ruffles combination. I loved wearing this, even if it was just to go the library to study for midterms!

What I don't love is how out of focus I am in these photos...guess I'll be asking for a remote for Christmas!

Lace top: Nordstrom
Skirt: Modcloth
Belt: Michael Kors
Tights: Hue
Boots: Kohl's

Closet Diary 11.2.11

2011-11-02T16:56:00.000-07:00

Although it's been a while (and I mean a really long while) since I've posted on a regular basis, I am still alive and well. A lot has happened over the last five months - not only did I continue to get dressed every day, but I graduated from high school as a valedictorian, fell in love, and moved to Eugene to begin classes at the University of Oregon. Life has been pretty crazy lately and I've been loving it - so much that, while I've been out living life, this blog has been pushed to the wayside. However, now that I finally feel settled into my new routine and life, I couldn't be more excited to get back into blogging as well!

I'm kicking off this fresh start with some old and new favorites. These boots and belt were standbys all last year and this cardigan has gotten much love since moving to Eugene. I'm also loving this dress, with its full skirt and fun equestrian print, which I found at the street market that came to campus in early October. This outfit felt so polished and pretty, but was still extremely comfortable, something that is very important during a long day of classes.

Thanks for all the patience while I went through some serious life changes! I definitely plan to continue with blogging and hope that, in the future, I'll be better about blogging through those changes as well! Also, I still have a ton of outfit photos from the last few months, which I will gradually be posting in addition to the current outfits, so if you're curious about what I was wearing while I was missing from the blogosphere, keep checking the archives for new posts!

Cardigan: Nordstrom
Dress: Vendor at street market
Belt: Michael Kors
Tights: Hue
Boots: Kohl's

Closet Diary 5.3

2011-05-03T16:03:00.000-07:00

This was one of the first days where the forecast promised me spring-like weather so although it ended up being a little chilly, I was excited to ditch my layers and bare my sun-deprived legs in this new floral skirt! I always love stripes paired with florals and especially liked this combination with my light-wash denim jacket roughening up the girly pattern and a bit of lace peeking out from underneath my skirt, helping to solve my long legs/short skirt issues.

Jean jacket: AE
Striped tee, lace edged slip (from another dress): Nordstrom
Skirt: F21
Sandals: JCPenney

Closet Diary 5.2

2011-05-02T22:17:00.000-07:00

My favorite spring purchase by far was this jacket. The utilitarian style is completely on trend this season, but it is also super wearable and I know I'll be remixing it well into fall. I love the gathered collar, the drawstring waist, and especially the price - I snagged this piece on clearance for about half off! To showcase my new find, I went with a simple, elegant look - striped, ruffled tank, skinny jeans, and flats.

Jacket: Nordstrom
Tank: Target
Jeans: Express
Flats: Charlotte Russe

Sneak Peek!

2011-04-30T22:06:00.000-07:00

Wondering what I've been up to lately? I'll give you a hint: tonight is my senior prom and this is how I've been spending every spare moment of my time lately! Hoping for a night to remember!

Closet Diary 4.27

2011-04-27T21:54:00.000-07:00

This outfit was one that really felt "me." It's also something that five-year-old me would have really loved. Is that a problem? I hope not, but who can blame me? Sometimes a floral dress and a touch of lace just feels right.

Cardigan: American Eagle
Dress, belt: F21
Lace-trimmed slip (underneath): Nordstrom
Crochet lace tights, studded flats: Target

Closet Diary 4.25

2011-04-25T21:43:00.000-07:00

For my May BP Fashion Board meeting, we were asked to rock our favorite spring trends, which proved to be very difficult due to both the very anti-spring weather we were having and the fact that because I was in the middle of my lacrosse season, wrapping up my senior year of high school, and crazy stressed out to finish a very important project, I had no time to pay attention to spring trends. However, I had just picked up these paperbag-waist shorts and knew that the high-waisted shorts trend was something I was excited to try, so I chose to pair them with crochet tights to beat the cold and a ruffled floral tank for an extra springy feel.

Cardigan: Nordstrom
Tank, tights: Target
Shorts: American Eagle
Flats: Charlotte Russe

Closet Diary 4.24

2011-04-24T21:34:00.000-07:00

I opted to get a little dressed up for church on Easter Sunday, and for me that means heels and jewelry, two things I don't pull out on a regular basis. Although I liked this outfit, I wish I could have felt a little more spring-ish. It's almost May and I'm so ready to ditch the tights!

Cardigan, necklace: Old Navy
Dress, belt: Nordstrom
Tights: Hue
Heels: Alice & Olivia for Payless

Closet Diary 4.23

2011-04-23T19:38:00.000-07:00

Now, I know dandylions are technically weeds, but I've always appreciated them. Especially during these crazy Oregon springs when nothing else is blooming! They are so bright and sunny, I thought I'd use them as a prop to spice up an otherwise simple outfit.

In case you couldn't tell by the number of pictures, I had a lot of fun taking outfit photos today.
I love this striped sweatshirt-type dress and wanted to pair it with jeans, so I just rolled up the hem and safety-pinned it in place. Finished with tall, brown boots, this outfit was super easy but still cute.

Dress-turned-shirt: Nordstrom
Jeggings: AE
Boots: Kohl's

Closet Diary 4.22

2011-04-22T19:25:00.000-07:00

This is another one of my favorite spring outfits! I picked up this cute bird print top at Forever 21 on a whim and I'm so glad I did. I love it paired with this mint green tee and girly lace skirt! I love anything with a quirky print and this was such a fun outfit to wear!

Top: F21
Tee, belt: Nordstrom
Skirt: Target
Flats: Payless

Closet Diary 4.21

2011-04-21T19:13:00.000-07:00

I was so excited when Target rereleased some of their Go International designer collaboration dresses. This Thakoon dress was one of the many that I picked up and I love it mainly because I'm planning to use it as a pattern to make a few other summer dresses. It seems like such a simple and easy design! I actually wore this with black tights during the day, but when the sun came out, I was more than excited to shed them!

Cardigan: Nordstrom
Dress: Thakoon for Target
Belt: Nordstrom
Flats: Payless

Closet Diary: One Shirt, Two Ways

2011-04-20T18:58:00.000-07:00

This Tucker for Target top is one of my favorites. I love the vivid floral print and its loose shape - the perfect thing for casual outfits. I paired it with jeans for two different comfy, casual looks that are still cute. In the first outfit, I offset the bright colors of the top with a beige cardigan and baby pink oxfords. In the second, I played up the color with a hot pink cardigan and flats.

Floral shirt: Tucker for Target
Beige cardigan: Old Navy
Jeans (top): AE
Oxfords: Alice and Olivia for Payless
Pink cardigan: Nordstrom
Jeans (bottom): Anoname
Pink flats: Charlotte Russe

Closet Diary 4.19

2011-04-19T13:18:00.000-07:00

We've started to get some nice weather, but it's still way to cold to ditch my layers. Although I felt a little out of place wearing so much black on one of our first sunny days, I still really liked this outfit with the subtle cheetah tights, the fringe neckline of my shirt, and the pop of purple with my jacket.

Jacket: gift
Tee: Anna Sui for Target
Skirt: Nordstrom
Tights: Target
Boots: Born

Closet Diary 4.18

2011-04-18T13:34:00.000-07:00

I really love the way this outfit turned out (it probably helps that I was having a pretty good picture day too). I felt very spring-y and a bit like a Southern belle in my floral dress, white tights, and boots. This is definitely a very "me" outfit - something I could be happy wearing every day!

Cardigan: Love Culture
Dress: Jovovich-Hawk for Target
Tights: Target
Boots: Kohl's
Belt: Michael Kors

Closet Diary 4.12

2011-04-12T13:08:00.000-07:00

One of the things I love about fashion is that personal style is constantly evolving, which means that I can wear girly lace one day and feel like a rocker the next in my motorcycle boots, funky tights, and screen-printed t-shirt all while keeping it very me.

Cardigan, skirt: Nordstrom
T-shirt: Miley and Max for Walmart
Tights, gold bracelet: Target
Boots: Born

Closet Diary 4.11

2011-04-11T12:55:00.000-07:00

I picked up these polka dot tights on sale during a weekend trip to the beach because I love my other pair of dotted tights and wore them all winter long. However, after bringing this pair home, I realized they are a little difficult to style. That was, until I saw another girl at school wearing the same tights with a skirt in a similar shade of blue and looking amazing. So I decided to use that inspiration to create an outfit out of cute and comfy basics - gray cardigan, black tee, casual skirt, and boots.

Cardigan, black top: F21
Skirt: Nordstrom
Tights: Hue
Boots: Ugg Australia

Tis the Season

2011-04-06T20:30:00.000-07:00

I've said it before, but I have a tendency to get my seasons confused. For example, this outfit, with its varying brown tones, chunky sweater, and tall boots is much more fall than spring. I blame my seasonal confusion on two things. First, I have no organized system for keeping track of all the inspirations I bookmark, save, or dog-ear and so my visions for what I'll during any given season quickly become forgotten. And second, the majority of my wardrobe, like this floral dress, stays in my closet year-round. I only rotate extremely seasonal items such as shorts and heavy coats which means that I can end up in an outfit that seems a little out of place. But, hey, I wear what I want to wear!

Cardigan: Nordstrom
Dress: Tucker for Target
Tights: Hue
Boots: Kohl's

Striped Pajamas

2011-04-05T19:22:00.000-07:00

This skirt reminds me a little of classic striped pajamas. However the combination of this skirt and pretty floral top makes for a sweet spring outfit. As put-together as I felt in this outfit, I still couldn't wait for the weather to warm up enough to allow me to ditch my tights!

Cardigan: Old Navy
Floral tank, belt: Target
Skirt: F21
Tights: AE
Flats: Charlotte Russe

Gone Wild

2011-04-05T18:43:00.000-07:00

This is another one of my favorite outfits from my extended absence. Although nothing about it says spring, I love the quirky combination of the zebra image on my tee and the unusual cheetah print of my skirt. I felt pretty cool and creative in this one!

Cardigan: F21
Tee: AE
Skirt: H&M
Tights: Hue
Boots: Born

Rule Breaker

2011-04-01T20:20:00.000-07:00

I'm all for mixing patterns and denim on denim, but one traditional fashion rule I have a hard time breaking is wearing navy blue and black together. However, certain circumstances forced me into being a rule breaker with this outfit. First, I didn't have a belt that really went with this dress and then I wanted to wear boots to balance out the purple tights. I ended up with a combination of black, gray, navy and pops of purple that I actually really liked. Mixing black and navy can be tricky, but when its done right, I'm a fan!

Cardigan: Old Navy
Dress: Tucker for Target
Belt: old
Tights: Target
Boots: Born

The One That Got Away

2011-03-31T16:08:00.001-07:00

This was definitely one of my favorite outfits that I wore during my absence from the blogosphere. My lacrosse team got dressed up for our first away game and, since I'm what most people consider to be "dressed up" on a regular basis, I figured the only way to step up my game would be to wear a pair of heels and a more polished outfit.

While I really loved the streamlined black and white look and I got to debut my $7 Target booties, my favorite part of the outfit was definitely the pale pink and blue chunky crystal necklace that you don't see pictured. I had been looking for a necklace just like it for months and finally found one on sale for $12! I was so excited to wear it, but, unfortunately, it broke halfway through its first day on the job. I was so disappointed because, not only did it break before I even had a chance to take outfit pictures, but I also couldn't replace it because it was the last one of its kind.
On another note, see that awkward face above? Apparently that's the face I make when another high school student catches me in the middle of a self-timed picture on his way home from school. I didn't even have enough time to run for it so my only option was to do my best to pretend he wasn't even there. So you see, random-kid-who-really-needs-to-find-a-new-route-home? I'm not crazy after all.

Black top: F21
Skirt, booties: Target
Belt: Nordstrom Rack
Tights: Hue

My Chameleon Skirt

2011-03-30T16:07:00.000-07:00

Black and color-mixing seems to be the pattern in my wannabe spring outfits. I liked how the strong pattern of the skirt took center stage while my polka dot top ended up acting more like a neutral. This skirt has proved to be a smart purchase as I've worn it pretty much year-round. I love pieces that can fit in easily in almost every season!

Cardigan: JCPenney

Shirt: H&M

Belt, Skirt: Nordstrom

Tights: Hue

Flats: Payless

Cheetah Spots and Floral Print

2011-03-27T15:49:00.000-07:00

While I would much rather have been wearing cute sundresses and sandals than a mostly black ensemble, the rainy forecast required warm layers. I really love the pattern on this tank, but its length - too short to be a dress, too long to be a shirt - makes it a little hard to style. To solve this, I layered it over a fitted black skirt. I also wanted to play up the unique floral print by pairing it with these cheetah tights that echo the pattern of the tank. So even though this isn't exactly what I wanted to be wearing, it ended up being something I was completely satisfied with.

Cardigan: JCPenney
Tank, skirt: Nordstrom
Belt: Nordstrom Rack
Tights: Target
Boots: Born

Paper Doll Project

2011-03-23T08:19:00.001-07:00

A few weeks ago, I signed up to be a part of the Paper Doll Project hosted by Miss Vinyl Ahoy, where I would be paired up with another blogger to style and be styled by for a day. Each of us picked one item to for an outfit to be centered around and I chose this olive green dress from H&M. I purchased it a few months ago, but have yet to wear it so I'm hoping my partner, Megan from Made by Maison, will give me a few ideas.

Unfortunately, due to my poor planning and procrastination, I was not able to post my outfit yesterday like all of the other Paper Dolls. Ideally, I would have had my Paper Doll outfit figured out before I left on vacation (without my entire wardrobe), but instead I'll just have to post it (sans wrinkles of course) as soon as I get back. In the meantime, check out the other Paper Doll pairs and look for Megan's outfit styled by me later this week!

Paper Doll Project partners!
Windy City Fashion and Doc Starr Chic
A Fashion Fixation and Snappy and Savvy
A Monkey Fatshionista and Matters of Merry Making
After My Fancyy and Style Within Reach
Closet Confections and Diary of a Chic Mommy
Made by Maison and Queen of Oz
Unusual Form and Curvy with Confidence
Fashion Momma and Employed Panache
Better in Sepia and Silver Pool of Light Girl
The Brunette One and The Stylish Housewife
From the Mixed-up Files and Hope and the Dress Code
Second Star Style and Effervescent Evelina
Pieces of My Earth and The Average Girls Guide
Consumerism Killed My Soul and Fashion Frugality
Kate Olmstead and Lemon Drop Love
Oranges and Apples and Watch Me Dress
Skrush and Tart Lemon Drop
Lindsay Living and Elle Enchanted
Snappy Casual and Chasing Davies
Leaving the House in This and Sweet Laundry
Coffee and a Cardigan and Inner Cupcake
Stumble into Style and Image Envy
Miss Vinyl Ahoy and Ordinarily Urbane and Lori's Wardrobe

One Tough Girly

2011-03-17T15:48:00.000-07:00

Between my biker-esque boots and black-based floral dress from Target's reissued Go International line, this outfit was a little on the tougher, edgier side. However, when softened up by a drapey cardigan, this outfit had just the right amount of contrast that created an outfit that is definitely one of my favorites lately. It's just different enough from what I typically wear to feel fresh, but still feel like me.

Cardigan: Nordstrom
Dress: Tucker for Target
Tights: Hue
Boots: Born

Carmel Apple

2011-03-15T15:47:00.000-07:00

I got this striped dress for my birthday, but had to wait until after the 30 for 30 to wear it. I love the sweatshirt feel of it and the preppy stripes. Paired with carmel-colored tights and boots, this look is a little more fall than it is spring. I'm looking forward to some warmer weather so that I can remix this dress in a more spring outfit.

Dress, belt: Nordstrom
Tights: Hue
Boots: Kohl's

Bad, Bad Blogger

2011-03-15T15:45:00.000-07:00

Well, obviously it's been a while since I've posted. I had hoped I would be able to keep up with the blog throughout my lacrosse season, but between homework, practice, games, work, and other commitments, there was just no way. I had to make the decision to put life first, blog second. That leaves me with many outfits and lots of exciting news to share!

For starters, these catch-up outfit posts are going to be short and sweet. This outfit is from early March, when the weather was still cold and dreary. My goal was to brighten the day with some spring floral and pretty pink.

Black lace cardigan: Urban Outfitters
Pink tank: Nordstrom
Skirt: F21
Tights: Hue
Flats: Payless

Goldenrod

2011-03-13T15:39:00.000-07:00

This cardigan is the second item I purchased during Modcloth's sale and I love it. I had been looking for a rich brown cardigan and this one is perfect. It's so soft and I love the color, the ruffles, and the gold stud buttons!
I wanted to really play up the cardigan with the colors and gold accents in the rest of my outfit. I felt like everything worked really well together.

Cardigan: Modcloth
Sequin top: Charlotte Russe
Skirt: F21
Tights: Hue
Boots: Kohl's

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Wicked

2011-03-11T21:36:00.000-08:00

I love wearing new clothes, especially after being stuck with the same 30 pieces for over a month. This skirt and cardigan are both brand new although the floral/lace top and boots were both 30x30 items. It's amazing how a few new things can freshen up my whole closet! However, I'm trying not to get to hooked on wearing new clothes because there's still a ton of things already in my closet just waiting to be remixed!

I got this ruffled, dark green skirt from Modcloth during their huge sale and I'm pretty excited about it. I don't usually like to shop online because a) I want to see things in person before I buy them and b) once I do buy something, I can hardly stand the wait for it to be delivered! However, I have no regrets about purchasing this little ruffled beauty!

While putting together this outfit, I decided I am officially ready for spring! I had the hardest time trying to figure out which pair of tights I should wear, all the while lamenting the fact that being able to go bare legged would make life so much easier. Unfortunately, I'm a bit of a wuss and even though it was in the mid-high fifties and sunny, there was no way I was baring my pasty legs to the not-quite-warm-enough air!

Cardigan, necklace: Old Navy
Floral/lace tee: Nordstrom Rack
Skirt: Modcloth
Tights: Target
Boots: Kohl's

You Can Call Me Ms. Waldorf

2011-03-11T21:22:00.000-08:00

While I can't exactly put my finger on it, something about this dress made me feel a little Blair Waldorf-y and a whole lot girly. I love the print, the color, and especially the ruffle. Paired with just black tights, flats and a cardigan, this was an extremely easy combination that made me feel very pretty all day long.

Black cardigan: JCPenney
Dress: H&M
Tights: Hue
Flats: Payless

Keeping It Simple

2011-03-09T21:11:00.000-08:00

A friend of mine gave me this cute floral dress for my birthday in early February, but I haven't been able to wear it since it wasn't part of my 30x30. I was really happy to break it out today and even though I styled it very simply, I felt pretty all day long. I've found that, oftentimes, the outfits that are created with simplicity and ease are so much better than those that require a lot of effort. Also having something new to play with made the reintroduction to the rest of my closet a little less overwhelming.

Cardigan: Nordstrom
Dress: gift, F21
Tights: Hue
Boots: Kohl's

Connect the Dots

2011-03-08T21:45:00.001-08:00

This is my polka dot outfit for EBEW and it was such a fun outfit to celebrate the end of the 30x30 and being reunited with the rest of my closet. Even though I still was remixing a few pieces from the 30x30 (my flats and this cardigan), this look still felt fresh, especially since I was able to pull out a summery skirt and make it work for winter. Although speaking of winter, it was gorgeous out today and nearly 60 degrees this afternoon. Even though I'm currently bundled up in tights, a scarf, and a sweater, spring is in the air and I'm so excited!

For this polka dot look, I was inspired by this outfit on Chictopia. I loved the layers of polka dots and the two strong colors so I went for something similar by layering three different polka dot pieces and including a hot pink skirt and bright blue scarf for contrast.

Cardigan: Target
Blouse: H&M
Scarf: AE
Skirt: self-made
Tights: Hue
Flats: Payless

The Forgotten Outfit

2011-03-07T22:01:00.000-08:00

Well, this is embarrassing. I just posted my final 30x30 outfit and mentioned double-checking to make sure I had included all 30 since I was so surprised at how fast it went. And then I realized I didn't post #28. How that happened, I don't know, but here it is.

I wanted to remix these shorts a lot during the 30x30, but I only ended up wearing them twice. So many outfits, so little time! I liked the shorts with my boots, I just wish this outfit had a little more color in it and that the floral print of my shirt was a little more visible. I guess there's always next time!

Cardigan: Nordstrom
Floral top: Nordstrom Rack
Shorts: H&M
Tights: Hue
Boots: Kohl's

Mission Accomplished

2011-03-07T20:48:00.000-08:00

Woohoo! I'm all done! I'm really excited to be done even though this 30x30 was relatively painless. It went by so fast, I had to count outfits a couple of times to be sure I hadn't skipped ahead of myself. I was so nervous at the start because I hadn't had time to put a lot of thought into picking my 30 items, but it all worked out - just gotta have faith! This final outfit looked a lot cuter on the hanger and, in retrospect, I think I would have liked it better with navy tights. However, I don't look like a clown so I'd say its a respectful finish. I'm very excited to break out a few other pieces from my closet for the EBEW polka dot day tomorrow!

Blazer: Nordstrom
Chambray shirt: H&M
Skirt, belt: Target
Tights: Hue
Flats: Charlotte Russe

29 Down, 1 To Go

2011-03-04T20:04:00.001-08:00

Well, you're looking at outfit #29 which means that I have only one more day left in this beloved little 30x30 challenge! While this time around has actually felt pretty easy, I am looking forward to getting the rest of my closet back. And to shopping!

This dress was another item I included in my 30 items specifically because I wanted to find new ways to wear it. I've pretty much paired it with every pair of tights and every cardigan I could think of so now I'm moving on to wearing it as a blouse with my maroon skirt. I'm pretty sure lots of ruffles + flowy skirt = fun, feminine, and flattering!

Also, I'm mixing it up on here a little bit by trying something new. I'm participating in FBFF for the first time because I feel like I talk about my clothes a lot, but I never really talk about ME. So here goes sharing a little bit more about myself...

1. What's your favorite drug store makeup product and your favorite higher-end product?

My favorite drug store makeup product is definitely Maybelline Falsies mascara. I don't really use any higher-end products on a regular basis, but I do love MAC blotting powder.

2. Is there one type of product that is your go-to, can't live without?

Mary Kay Satin Lips Lip Balm...I'm addicted to it.

3. What's the best hair product you've ever used?

Bumble and Bumble Brillantine is pretty much the only hair product that I use and I love it.

4. Fess up, what's the worst beauty look you've tried to rock and look back at now with a little shame or apprehension that you actually did that?

Well, I'm not very adventuresome when it comes to hair and makeup, but in the 7th grade, I chopped all my hair off, didn't style it at all, and chose to forgo all makeup. It wasn't pretty.

5. When it comes to beauty products, we all use the same basic products. What do you use that helps show off your personal flare and personality?

Hmm...again, I don't really go all out with makeup. I'm okay with the basics, but I do like to wear fun nail colors.

Tiered cardigan: Urban Outfitters
Teal dress (worn as top): Nordstrom
Cranberry skirt: Charlotte Russe
Belt: Nordstrom Rack
Tights: Hue
Flats: Payless

A Denim Kind of Day

2011-03-03T15:27:00.000-08:00

If you've visited my blog regularly, you've probably noticed, like my friends, family and teachers, that I have a tendency to wear skirts and dresses a lot more than pants. When I do wear pants, its usually this pair of skinny jeans. I've honestly found that I feel much more comfortable in tights. Unforgiving, pinching waistbands and the fear that I might be showing a little more lower-back area than I would like to when sitting down or bending over pretty much sealed the deal for me on jeans. However, I still turn to my favorite pair of jeans when I want to wear something a little more casual and a little less fussy. This was one of those days. The combination of a navy blue ruffled cardigan, a rich plum scarf, and a ruffled floral-patterned tank made this denim-based outfit a little more feminine and a little more me.

Cardigan, flats: Charlotte Russe
Tank: Target
Scarf, watch: Nordstrom
Jeans: Express

A Little Bit of Schoolgirl

2011-03-02T21:32:00.000-08:00

One of my goals for the 30x30 was to find new ways to wear this heart print dress and so far I think my favorite look was with the purple tights. However, the remix challenge has made me a little more creative with my layering and I really like how this outfit, with the layered cardigan and sweater, turned out a little bit schoolgirlish.

Cardigan: F21
Sweater: Limited Too
Dress, tights: H&M
Belt: Nordstrom Rack
Flats: Payless

Monday Monday

2011-02-28T20:57:00.000-08:00

In case you didn't notice already, I'm on outfit #25! I can't believe how fast this 30 for 30 is going by! There's quite a few things that I've only worn once, including this striped tank, and I'm determined to squeeze them into the remix. Unfortunately, I realized after getting dressed this morning that this outfit is almost identical to another outfit I wore at the start of the challenge (almost, but not quite). However, I liked this outfit so much that I couldn't bear to change. I just love how all the different neutrals work really well together without being boring. I promise I'll have a completely new combination tomorrow!

Cardigan: Nordstrom
Tank: Target
Skirt: H&M
Tights: Hue
Boots: Kohl's

Cardigan Love

2011-02-26T20:29:00.000-08:00

So far the most important thing I've learned from this remix challenge is to limit the number of cardigans I include in my 30 items. I've now run out of shirt options to go with this fun polka dot cardigan, so I've resorted to pairing it with a second cardigan underneath. On second thought, I actually love this look so maybe cardigans really are the best option!

As a side note, you see that little patch of snow I'm standing on? Well, that's an example of the amount of snow it takes to have a day off of school for a "snow day" around here. Not that I'm complaining. I fully appreciated being able to sleep in to 11 Thursday morning. I just would have loved it even more if we had a real snow day!

Polka dot cardigan, lace skirt: Target
Teal cardigan: Nordstrom
Belt: Nordstrom Rack
Sweater tights: Hue
Flats: Payless

Barney Legs

2011-02-23T21:38:00.001-08:00

I've worn this purple heart printed dress a few other times, but never really liked the way my outfits turned out. I guess I just needed a pair of Barney purple tights to make it work! Even though I love color, I have been a little hesitant to go for all out bright tights. I've worn navy blue, olive green, carmel brown, and maroon, but those have all been neutrals or subtle colors. However, these babies are full on color! And with a mostly black ensemble like this, I love it!

Cardigan: Urban Outfitters
Dress: H&M
Tights: Target
Flats: Payless

Pink Elephant

2011-02-23T20:53:00.000-08:00

I've really enjoyed playing with different proportions and silhouettes during the 30 for 30 challenge such as wearing a longer sweater over an A-line skirt. While I'm not going to give up my go to look of tucked-in tops, high-waist skirts, and cardigans, I am going to make an effort to mix things up more often.

My favorite part of this outfit is the pink enamel elephant pendant my friend gave me for my birthday. I'll have to take a detail picture of it the next time I wear it!

Sweater: old, Limited Too
Skirt: Nordstrom
Necklace: gift
Tights: Hue
Boots: Kohl's

By the Seaside

2011-02-22T21:51:00.001-08:00

Over the weekend, I took a little trip to the beach. Although it was gorgeous there, the temperature still didn't get above 45 so I was layering up. I was also packing way too much fun into each day to take outfit pictures, let alone post them so you're getting them all at once. The 30 for 30 made it easy to pack and I even was able to plan each of my outfits ahead of time (something I never do, but really should). The first and last of my three outfits were travel days so I wore jeans and loose layers. I liked the dots and stripes combo of my first outfit and the tiers of lace on my cardigan made this casual look a little more fun.

After being in jeans all day, I was actually really looking forward to pulling on my cozy sweater tights. I've always believed it, but I will now swear that tights are so much more comfortable than jeans. I've struggled a bit to remix this dress, because I feel like there are only so many ways to wear it. This time, I switched out the cream lace trimmed slip that came with it for a black one so that I could pair it with black tights and boots more easily. I added the red scarf at the last minute because I felt like the outfit needed a little pop of color.

While this outfit may not have been the most flattering outfit ever, with my oversize cardigan and shirt, it was very comfortable. I actually meant to cinch it in with a skinny red belt, but somehow, I forgot to pack it. After wearing this red circle scarf twice this weekend, I've decided that I need more of these scarves. They're just so cozy and easy!

Black tiered cardigan: Urban Outfitters
Gray striped tee: AE
Skinny jeans (in #19 and #21): Express
Polka-dot scarf: H&M
Boots (in all 3 looks): Ugg Australia
Gray cardigan (in #20 and #21): F21
Blue heart print dress: Nordstrom
Red infinity scarf: F21
Black sweater tights: Hue
Chambray shirt: H&M

Out of the Box

2011-02-18T13:52:00.000-08:00

It might not look like much, but this outfit is stepping outside of the ol' comfort zone for me. I don't think I've ever worn a shirt tucked into jeans like this before and I've never been able to pull off wearing black and brown together. However, I'm counting this look as a success! I love the little pop of red with my belt, my cozy cardigan, the girly detail on my top, and the pattern of my scarf. And I love it all together! Finding brand new pairings for old clothes is the best part of doing this 30 for 30 challenge. Maybe I should try new things more often...

Cardigan, scarf, belt: Nordstrom
Blouse: F21
Jeans: Express
Boots: Kohl's

Shades of Gray

2011-02-18T12:42:00.000-08:00

I've mentioned before that I really don't like wearing all black. However, I'm perfectly okay with wearing all black, gray, and white. So even though there's not a color to be had in this outfit, I like it. The color blocking on my skirt, the lace ruffle on my top, and the polka dot pattern of my cardigan make up for the lack of color, while the black/white/gray combo keeps the look unified.

Cardigan: Target
Top: Macy's
Skirt: Old Navy
Tights: Hue
Boots: Ugg Australia

Snow Day

2011-02-18T11:59:00.000-08:00

Wednesday morning brought a light dusting of snow that was gone by midmorning. It wasn't much, but I was pretty excited to take my outfit pictures in the snow! I really liked this outfit as something super casual, but still cute. I think the subtle mixing of neutrals, the stripes, and the pop of red keep this lazy day look from being boring.

Once again, I'm kinda sorta cheating on my 30 for 30. I was a little scared about having 8 cardigans in my 30 items so I switched one out for this striped tee. Technically, it's not cheating because the pink cardigan I switched out hadn't appeared in any of my photos (I did wear for one morning before changing into a different cardigan, but we're going to keep that on the down low). I just decided that I needed another basic that could be used for layer and for both casual or more dressed up looks.

Chambray shirt: H&M
Striped tee: AE
Jeans: Express
Belt: Nordstrom
Boots: Kohl's

Best Dressed

2011-02-15T14:46:00.000-08:00

I was voted the best dressed senior at my high school and this is what I wore to take the picture for our yearbook. While it may not be the most fashion forward or even the cutest outfit I've ever worn, I liked it because it felt very me. And "me" is what my classmates voted for so I didn't want to end up trying too hard. I wore my favorite lace skirt, the brown boots I wear all the time, a floral top and a bright green belt. Even though this is a very typical outfit for me (except for the fact that I'm not wearing a cardigan), I thought the reds and browns with a pop of green made it one worthy of the spotlight.

Floral top: Nordstrom Rack
Skirt, belt: Target
Tights: Hue
Boots: Kohl's
Earrings: Old Navy

That Day Again

2011-02-14T20:38:00.000-08:00

Growing up, I loved Valentine's Day. It was the one day out of the year that all my classmates were forced to bring me candy, making it even sweeter than Halloween because I didn't have to work for it! Nowadays, my feelings are mixed. I like the idea of a day devoted to letting those you care about know just how much you love them, but I don't like how over-the-top it's become. I saw so many of my peers walking through the halls at school today with their arms laden with cheesy balloons and tacky stuffed animals that it just made me a little irritated because it all seemed so fake. Don't get me wrong - I love cards, chocolate, and roses, but what I really love are personal from-the-heart messages and actions. That's why I completely enjoyed my Valentine's Day candlelit dinner of Chinese take-out at home with my family. I love them and they love me and that's what this day is all about!

I almost wore my heart patterned dress today, but since I had a speech in French today, I decided that jeans were a safer route than a mini-dress was. I got a couple of these tanks at Target just before the 30 for 30 started (more of my last-minute shopping) because I really like the flattering shape, the cute print, and ruffle detail. This look was a bit on the springy side, but what did I tell you? I have a tendency to mix seasons. Yesterday, I wore a very autumn look and today I'm all about spring. Maybe you'll actually get a winter look from me this week, but I promise I'll stay away from summer in February (actually, I lied - I love wearing sundresses during the winter, but I always make them weather appropriate - no unseasonally bare legs for me!).

In fact, the most ironic thing about this spring look is that it was raining when I went to take pictures so I only managed to take one (the one you see here) before I went to lacrosse practice in the middle of a monsoon! I'm not sure if that's the right word for it, but pouring doesn't even begin to cover it. It was hailing/raining so hard that running in a straight line or at a pace faster than a slow walk was not even an option. I pretty much took a cold shower fully clothed for about an hour. That's Oregon weather for you.

Cardigan: Old Navy
Floral tank: Target
Jeans: Express
Flats: Charlotte Russe

Carmel Apple

2011-02-13T20:37:00.000-08:00

This flowy, drapey look might just be my favorite of the 30 for 30 so far. It felt a little bit autumn-inspired with the carmel brown and cranberry red color combination, but I'm all about mixing my seasons! I can't believe how fast the challenge is going by this time around! I was a little worried at the beginning, but I'm totally relaxed now that I've realized I'm almost halfway there and I have 5 styled outfits hanging in my closet at the moment. I think I'll make it through without dressing like a clown after all!

Top: Nordstrom Rack
Skirt: Charlotte Russe
Belt: Michael Kors
Tights: Hue
Boots: Kohl's

Party Dress

2011-02-13T20:32:00.000-08:00

I already mentioned wearing this dress on my 18th birthday, but I also decided I wanted to wear it for my birthday party with my family as well! I can't help it! There's just something about this dress that I really love. Besides the colors and fun pattern just scream party, don't they? I went with a little sweeter of a look (not that there's really that much difference) with the pink tights and bow flats. The light green belt added some extra color and gave my slouchy cardigan some shape.

Cardigan: F21
Dress: Nordstrom Rack
Belt: Target
Tights: H&M
Flats: Charlotte Russe

Eclectic Mix

2011-02-13T20:17:00.000-08:00

Friday's outfit was a bit of an interesting combination. I really liked the ruffled blouse with the plaid scarf and the herringbone patterned wool shorts, but I just wasn't thrilled with my shoe options. Oh well, a little bow never hurt anyone!

Cardigan, blouse: F21
Scarf, tights: AE
Shorts: H&M
Flats: Charlotte Russe

All I Could Do Was Cry

2011-02-13T17:57:00.000-08:00

I was a little spotty with the outfit posting last week because of a few things. First, celebrating my birthday took up a lot of my free time! Then, because of a lot of homework and by the time Thursday rolled around (which is when I wore this outfit), I was so stressed out that I cried at school and ended up needing to take a 2.5 hour nap just to get my head cleared! So even though I absolutely loved this outfit, I had a bit of a rough day. However, now its the weekend and I can look back and realize that it was a pretty good week.
I loved the red circle scarf with this dress because, although you can't see the pattern, there are red and yellow hearts all over it. I also was really excited to break out these white lace tights. I've worn this dress with gray heart patterned tights and with caramel tights (both of which I loved), but I needed a new combination. The white lace was great because they didn't overpower the outfit like a pair of bright red ones might have, but were more interesting and grown up looking than solid white tights.

Dress: Nordstrom
Scarf: F21
Tights: Target
Boots: Kohl's

Sweet and Sour

2011-02-13T17:43:00.000-08:00

Last Monday, I went to a Nordstrom BP Fashion Board meeting and we talked about upcoming trends for Spring 2011. Besides boxy crop tops (which I'm not super excited about), BP is forecasting the "Sweet and Sour" combination. This means girly pieces like lace and florals with rougher military touches. This trend isn't exactly new and its something that I've been doing for a while, but I really like it.
This outfit is one example: floral and lace top with a grandpa cardigan, army green skirt, and studded belt. The end result is cozy and pretty, but with a little kick.

Cardigan: Nordstrom
Floral top: Nordstrom Rack
Belt: Michael Kors
Skirt: H&M
Tights: Hue
Boots: Kohl's

Polka Dot Party

2011-02-13T17:30:00.000-08:00

This outfit is from last Saturday (it got postponed in the 30 for 30 because I didn't take any outfit pictures). I wore this fun dotted cardigan over a ruffled tank to celebrate my 18th birthday with some friends. I wanted to keep my outfit casual because we were just hanging out, eating pizza, playing Wii, etc. It was a lot of fun and these polka dots were definitely party worthy!
The cardigan is another one of my last minute pre-challenge purchases. I was really excited about this one because I've been wanting a polka dot cardigan for a few years now, ever since I saw one at American Eagle that was way out of my budget.

Cardigan: Target
Tank: Macy's
Jeans: Express
Flats: Payless

Trail Blazer

2011-02-08T22:39:00.000-08:00

I included this blazer (my only one) in my 30 items so that I could participate in Everybody, Everywear but I actually wasn't super excited about it. I just don't wear blazers that often. I've always thought them to be a little too formal for just an everyday outfit. However, this look might have just changed my mind. I love it! Paired with sweet lace and striped ruffles, this outfit still has the feminine look that I'm drawn to. I think I actually want to get another blazer now! Maybe an ivory one I can wear with floral dresses?

Blazer: Nordstrom
Striped tank, lace skirt: Target
Tights: AE
Flats: Charlotte Russe

7 on the 7th

2011-02-08T22:25:00.000-08:00

This is what I wore on the 7th for my 18th birthday! I specifically wanted to wear this dress, which I just picked up the weekend before starting the challenge, because I absolutely love the ladylike shape, the fun print, and the fact that it's pink! I actually started out the day with white tights and gray flats, but I switched them out for black for a much more wintry look. Now I love the pops of color against the black.

Cardigan: Nordstrom
Dress, belt: Nordstrom Rack
Tights: Hue
Flats: Payless
Bracelet: Tiffany's

Sugar and Spice and Everything Nice

2011-02-08T21:38:00.000-08:00

Things are going to be a little out of order for a bit. I'm jumping from outfit #4 to #6 because I didn't have a chance to take a picture of the outfit I wore on Saturday night to celebrate my birthday with some friends (#5). So, hopefully, I can take pictures of what I wore later to post because it is one of my 30. For now, I'll just have to skip it and show you what I wore out to dinner with my family for my birthday. Ever since seeing this outfit of Keiko Lynn's, I knew I wanted to wear something similar. I really loved the color combination and the sweater/lace combination. I actually included this sweater in my 30 just so that I could wear this outfit. It was the perfect thing to wear to be comfortable and cute!

Sweater: Limited Too
Skirt: Target
Tights: Hue
Flats: Charlotte Russe
Necklace: Self-made

Heart of Darkness

2011-02-08T21:29:00.000-08:00

I'll be honest - I didn't really love this outfit. I'm just not very comfortable wearing so much black. On the other hand, I think I'm ready to find some ways to remix this dress in ways that I like a little bit more!

Cardigan: F21
Dress: H&M
Belt: Nordstrom Rack
Tights: Hue
Boots: Ugg Australia

Today and Everyday

2011-02-03T16:27:00.000-08:00

This is another preplanned outfit that made it super easy to get dressed this morning. When I realized I would actually have to think about what to wear tomorrow, I admit I kind of panicked a little. It's too early in the game to start that!

I really liked this outfit because it was so relaxed and comfortable, but I still felt all pulled together. I love this floral pattern paired with the chambray button down! At first, I wanted to wear the shirt untucked with the skirt peeking out from underneath, but that just didn't look right so I went back to this pretty much no-fail silhouette. I'm pretty sure I'd be perfectly happy wearing this everyday for the 30 for 30, although that might get a little boring. Expect to see lots of this shirt however!

Shirt: H&M
Skirt: Nordstrom
Belt: Michael Kors
Bangle: vintage
Tights: Hue
Boots: Kohl's

Black and Blue

2011-02-02T20:54:00.000-08:00

I realized today (just as I realized during the last 30 for 30) that I need a wider variety of belts, given the frequency with which I wear them and their visibility in my outfits. As of right now, I have a handful of brown belts, a handful of black belts, and two green belts. How that happened, I'm not sure, especially since I really don't wear green all that much. This meant that when it came time to belt my outfit consisting of white, cranberry, and navy, all I had to work with was black. I'm pretty sure I was taught not to mix black and navy, but I think it turned out okay. However, I will still make an effort to broaden my belting horizons (mostly by shopping the belts on clearance at Target when this is all over).

Other than the little fashion faux pas, I was pretty happy with this feminine look. The ruffles and the shimmery material of my skirt made me feel just a touch more dressed up today.

Cardigan, skirt, flats: Charlotte Russe
Top: Macy's
Belt: Nordstrom Rack
Navy tights: Hue

One Down

2011-02-01T23:59:00.000-08:00

This is my first outfit for the Winter 30 for 30 and I'm off to a good start. The ironic thing about this outfit is that I actually styled this long before I even knew I would be participating in another remix challenge, but as soon as I found out, I decided to save this outfit because I knew it was made entirely of pieces I would want in my remix. Basically, this means that getting dressed on the first day was super easy because it was planned weeks in advance!

I really love this outfit because of the mix of the tough studded army-green skirt and the girly ruffled blouse. I also really like that, while everything is a neutral, the details and texture add a lot of interest. It's a little different because I am usually drawn to bright colors and fun patterns, but it still feels completely me!

Cardigan: Nordstrom
Blouse: F21
Skirt: H&M
Tights: Hue
Boots: Kohl's

Winter Remix

2011-02-01T23:37:00.000-08:00

Well, I'm a whole day late posting these, but here they are - my pieces for the 30 for 30 remix! I tried my best to get these up yesterday, but finalizing my 30 items and taking pictures of all of them took way longer than I expected. By the time the clock struck twelve, I was practically asleep at the computer and decided one more day really couldn't hurt.

The good news is that I felt more confident this time since I already have one 30 for 30 experience under my belt. Unfortunately, by the time I had finished picking out all my pieces, I was freaking out that I would not be able to dress myself for the next 30 days and ultimately look like a complete buffoon. Part of this panic stemmed from the fact that I have 8 cardigans in my line up! That's more than any other item and may be just a little bit overboard.

At the same time, there are some things that I'm really excited to wear because there are 8 new items. I have this problematic habit of shopping the day before the 30 for 30 starts. This could be seen as cheating since the goal of the remix is to learn how to work with what you have in your closet, but I swear I don't mean do. I'm just a very practiced procrastinator and when I know I'm not supposed to shop for a certain amount of time, I make sure I get everything on my list beforehand. My theory is that a) anything in my closet that hasn't been worn yet automatically goes into the remix and b) anything I buy right beforehand goes into the remix so therefore I only buy things that I know I'll be able to wear a bunch of different ways. In my opinion, this is actually very smart shopping, even if it means that my winter remix is flooded with floral tops and bright colors!

Rosy Outlook

2011-01-31T21:09:00.001-08:00

This outfit has been hanging in my closet since the start of the last 30 for 30 and I'm wearing it just in time for the next one. The winter remix starts tomorrow and I'm actually very excited even though I don't have my 30 items all picked out yet! We'll see how that goes...I'm hoping to post my 30 by tomorrow afternoon though. This shirt and this skirt are both items that I love but don't wear nearly enough. I love the roses made of zippers that trim the neckline of the top, but its fit makes it a little tricky to wear. I love the print of the skirt, but its dark purpley-gray color is also difficult to mix with the rest of my closet. However, my goal for this year is to find more ways to wear the things in my closet that I don't typically gravitate towards.

Also, don't forget to check out the rest of the outfits I posted today! There's nine of them and I even put a little widget on the sidebar to help you out!

Top: Nordstrom
Skirt: F21
Tights: AE
Flats: Payless

Casual Friday

2011-01-31T21:04:00.000-08:00

I was surprisingly super excited to wear jeans for the last day of finals. Usually, I claim the comfort of tights over denim, but for some reason, the ease of jeans was just calling my name. So with a bright cardi and a patterned scarf, I managed the triple C's: casual, comfy, and cute. This may not be my go-to look, but it is one I enjoy every once in a while.

Purple cardigan: ON
Tee: AE
Scarf, jeans: Nordstrom
Shoes: Converse

Cat Power

2011-01-31T15:00:00.000-08:00

I've never really been one for animal prints, but somewhere along the way of discovering my love of florals, polka dots, and stripes, cheetah started to grow on me as well. I like this skirt because of its swingy fabric and unexpected neon print. For only $7 I figured I might as well take a shot at the feline side of things.

Cardigan: JCPenney
Tank: AE
Skirt: H&M
Tights: Hue
Flats: Payless

Flower Child

2011-01-31T12:00:00.000-08:00

Oddly enough, this is not what I had planned for either this outfit or these tights, but this is one of my favorites of the batch I'm posting from the past week or two (see my other favorite here). I meant to wear opaque black tights with this because I prefer to cover my legs a little bit more when I wear such fitted skirts, but I sat on a splinter and ripped a hole in my favorite tights so those weren't going to work. I also meant to wear these tights the previous day, but they just didn't look right. And so the outfit you see here was born.

This outfit was pretty exciting for me because not only was it a solution to both of my aforementioned problems, but it also was the debut of my thrifted cardigan! I don't buy secondhand very often, although I admire those who do, mostly because of the time requirement. However, I love the idea of saving money and reducing the amount of new items I consume. I had to go to Goodwill to pick up some "old lady" garb for a themed baking party my friends and I had and decided to buy this sweater too. It's a modern cut in good condition from Loft so I'm pretty happy with it and I think that this summer, if I have a little more time on my hands, I might try some more thrifting!

Cardigan: thrifted
Top: F21
Skirt: Nordstrom
Tights: Urban Outfitters
Boots: Ugg Australia

Black and White and Red All Over

2011-01-31T09:00:00.000-08:00

Someone should probably call the ironing police on me. Although, in my defense, the skirt did not look like this when I was actually wearing it in public, just when I took my pictures for the blog. This is just what happens when I run out of time for outfit pictures and leave clothes laying around on the floor of my room overnight so that I can remember to take my pictures the next day. Next time, I think I'll just hang them up! Wrinkles aside, I think this outfit looked a lot better in person. For whatever reason, it just didn't photograph right even though I thought it was a very flattering look. On the day that I wore this, I was feeling very confident, but looking at the pictures, I'm feeling a bit "euh" about it.

Top: American Rag, Macy's
Skirt: ON
Tights: Hue
Flats: Payless

Garden Variety

2011-01-30T21:00:00.000-08:00

I love this jacket! Not only is it floral, but the pattern and the bomber shape have a bit of a retro feel. The best part of all? I snatched this up during my very first trip ever to Urban Outfitter for $19.99 when it was originally $78. I was so excited and even though regularly priced items from Urban Outfitters are a little bit high for me, I'm officially hooked on the sale rack!

Printed bomber: Urban Outfitters
Tee, tank (underneath): Nordstrom
Skirt: Target
Tights: Hue
Flats: Payless
Belt: Nordstrom Rack

A Little Pink Me Up

2011-01-30T20:00:00.000-08:00

I've been trying to stretch my boundaries a bit by playing with how I layer. I automatically want to wear a high-waisted skirt with a tucked in top and a cardigan, but I mixed it up a little by wearing my shirt over my skirt. I know, daring, right? But, hey, it's a baby step and I really like the way this looks with the floral skirt just peeking out. However, I do wish this stop wasn't so wrinkled!

Cardigan: Nordstrom
Top: Love Culture
Skirt: F21
Tights: Hue
Flats: Payless

Marigold

2011-01-30T19:00:00.000-08:00

I really like the idea of black and white with just a concentrated pop of color, such as this golden skirt. It looks classy and simple, but because my blouse has a subtle polka dot print, it's not bland. This skirt has gotten a lot of use considering, I haven't had it for very long. When I purchased it, I was deciding between this and the same one in red. I chose this one because I didn't have anything this color in my closet, but that's also the same reason why I was worried it wouldn't mix well. However, I think it's fallen neatly into place as a vivid color that goes well with almost every neutral.

Cream cardigan: AE
Polka dot blouse: H&M
Skirt: F21
Tights: Hue
Flats: Payless

Checkmate

2011-01-30T13:05:00.000-08:00

Just a fair warning - this is the first of many outfit posts to come this weekend. Finals are over and I think I managed to keep my 4.0 (fingers crossed!), so now it's time to catch up on all my outfit posts from the passed two weeks. With the next 30 for 30 remix starting on Tuesday, my goal is to have everything posted by tomorrow (besides, January bleeding into February is just ugly!). Check back regularly to see all my outfits!

I'll tell you right now though, that even though there's still more outfits to come, this is one of my favorites. I'm not really even sure why, but it just came together exactly the way I wanted it to and I love it. I pretty much love any outfit involving this skirt. It's so versatile and will definitely be making a second appearance in my 30 for 30.

I am also so glad I purchased these light brown caramel tights. I can't tell you how long I stood in front of the rack of Hue tights at Macy's trying to figure out what my second pair of tights (I was there to get maroon ones) would be in order to get the 2-for deal. I almost didn't get these ones because I already had a dark brown pair, but I guess now I have a brown to go with everything!

The other thing I really like about this outfit is my plaid blouse. I've had it for a year or two, but I think this might be the first time it's appeared in an outfit post. The shape of it can feel a little too prim and, therefore, be hard to wear, but I think it struck just the right note in this combination.

Shirt: Charlotte Russe
Skirt: Target
Belt: Michael Kors
Tights: Hue
Boots: Kohl's
Bracelet: vintage

Blogger's Guilt

2011-01-27T21:52:00.000-08:00

LOOK! I'm back! I hope you haven't given up on me yet. With dead week last week and finals week this week, I've just been way too busy/stressed out/sleep deprived to post anything. However, I have been religiously taking outfit pictures. So because I got pulled off the schedule from work tonight and despite the fact that I still have two more tests tomorrow, I decided to show you an outfit that I wore sometime within the past couple weeks (who knows exactly when? my outfits have become as jumbled as my facts for my Holocaust and Genocide Studies exam).

Don't you feel lucky? I'm sacrificing precious extra minutes of sleep and/or studying to bring this outfit to you.

First off, I would like to point out this amazing coat that I picked up at Nordstrom for 33 bucks during an impromptu shopping trip with my mom! All their winter coats were on sale and I think I scored big time with this black ruffled beauty.

Now that you're sufficiently impressed with my exciting purchase (or maybe not), I would like to direct your attention to the rest of my outfit. This is something I had been wanting to wear all though out the Fall 2010 30 for 30 Remix Challenge and seeing as the next challenge is creeping up on me, I figured I had better wear it! I really love the combination of my purple cheetah print cardigan with my black lace dress and wanted to make it extra girly with the addition of pink tights and hot pink flats.

Cardigan, flats: Charlotte Russe
Dress, coat, watch: Nordstrom
Tights: H&M

PS, I would like to apologize for my over-the-top silliness - this is what happens to me after too much studying late at night. You should be thankful I've spared you from this and many more intense emotions lately!

Deja Vu

2011-01-18T21:18:00.000-08:00

All throughout November/December's 30 for 30 I had been thinking about pairing this dress with my long pink cardigan. I finally ended up wearing it and realized that this outfit is very similar to an outfit I wore during the challenge. There's just something about navy and pink paired with brown that I really like.

Speaking of the 30 for 30, I've signed up for it again so starting February 1st, I'll be remixing it up!

Cardigan: Nordstrom Rack
Dress: Tucker for Target
Tights: Hue
Belt: Michael Kors
Boots: Kohl's

Pop of Pansies

2011-01-14T22:29:00.000-08:00

I was really excited to wear this floral sundress with a chunky sweater, tights, and boots to make it work for winter. I thought all the pieces of this little ensemble worked really well together. There's a good mix of color, with the floral pattern and maroon tights, and neutrals. I love dresses like this that work year-round!

Cardigan: Nordstrom
Dress: AE
Tights: Hue
Boots: Kohl's

Real Simple

2011-01-14T21:34:00.000-08:00

To be honest, I wore this the other day because I was concerned that I wouldn't have time to take outfit pictures so I wanted to wear something that I wouldn't be stressed about posting. Turns out, I did have a couple minutes to take outfit pictures. This is a super simple outfit - a pair of jeans, a tee, and a cardigan, but it's okay to have those every once in a while. I still had fun with it thought because while I don't usually accessorize much, a simpler outfit was great for wearing a bracelet, necklace, and headband (woah!) without going over the top. Speaking of accessorizing - I'm not really one for New Year's resolutions, but I do think I'll try to accessorize more this year.

Cardigan: Old Navy
Tee: AE
Jeans: Express
Boots: Kohl's
Headband: Nordstrom
Bangle: Target

Queen of Hearts

2011-01-12T21:48:00.000-08:00

Between the heart print dress, tights and my heart shaped locket, I think I may have gone a little overboard with the heart-print motif. Except you can never have too many hearts, right? I really love these tights (even though someone asked me if I had the chicken pox) because they just make my day a little sparkly! I also really love this dress. I pretty much love this whole outfit. It's comfy and cute which is what I aim for in the majority of what I wear.

My only problem is that I can't think of a ton of ways to remix this dress like I hoped I would when I got it. I know I'll be able to wear it come spring and summer, but I'm kind of stuck for ways to wear it right now. I've wanted some more colored cardigans for a while (maybe a golden, mustard or a bright red) which could lead to more outfit ideas, but right now I really just want to work with what I have (which is quite a lot!). I think I just need to do some serious brainstorming!

Cardigan: F21
Dress: Nordstrom
Tights: Urban Outfitters
Flats: Charlotte Russe

I Love My Ducks

2011-01-10T16:30:00.000-08:00

The Ducks are playing for the National Championship today and I am so excited/nervous! This is what I wore to show my support, but not resort to a jeans and sweatshirt combo (speaking of which, that's exactly what I changed into when I got home from school - I like to be extra comfy when watching football!). Looking at the outfit now, I wish I had worn my green cardigan for a little more color, but what's done is done. I'm keeping this quick because I have homework I need to finish before the game! But make sure you root for the Ducks tonight!

Cardigan: Macy's
12-O tee: gift, Nike
Skirt: Nordstrom
Tights: Target
Boots: Ugg Australia
Earrings: gift, Old Navy

Shorts Story

2011-01-06T22:09:00.000-08:00

I've been seeing the shorts with tights look for a while now and really like it so a couple months ago I was determined to find the perfect pair of winter-appropriate shorts. I got these at H&M and loved them, but they've sat in my closet ever since (all throughout the 30 for 30 and the rest of December). I wanted to wear them, but I wanted to debut them with the perfect outfit so I kept holding back. Finally I decided to just wear the shorts because I wanted to and not worry about the perfect outfit. So here they are! Now that the ice is broken, I'm ready to style them up again!

Cardigan: Old Navy
Blouse: Tucker for Target
Shorts: H&M
Tights: Hue
Flats: Charlotte Russe

Uniformly Cool

2011-01-05T22:08:00.000-08:00

I was so happy wearing this today that I wish I could make it my uniform! It even has all the right pieces: Skirt? Check. Button-down? Check. Cardigan? Check. Plaid? Check. Looks like I'm good to go! But really, I loved this look! In fact, I loved it so much that I stood smiling in the rain just to get these pictures to share with you!

I finally got a chambray shirt and now I can't get enough of it. And then, of course, there's this lace skirt which is probably my all time favorite. Plus, although sometimes I feel like layering is almost contrived, this look kind of happened on its own, making this my absolute favorite kind of outfit to wear!On an entirely different note, conditioning for the lacrosse team started today which means that I am forecasting an incredibly sore body tomorrow and any thoughts of wearing heels this week are completely going down the drain! Bummer, my shoes need a little more love!

Cardigan: Love Culture
Chambray shirt: H&M
Skirt, tights: Target
Scarf: AE
Boots: Kohl's
Belt: Michael Kors

Shake Up the Happiness

2011-01-04T17:56:00.001-08:00

Well, I wore jeans again for the second day in a row, which is pretty unusual for me! However, I actually really liked this outfit and felt a little more put together, even though I was incredibly comfortable. There's just something about flowy layers that I just really like! There's actually something about this pink cardigan/top combination that I really like because this is my second time wearing them together. I wore an outfit very similar to this last spring, but you wouldn't have realized it if I didn't tell you right? And now that you know you won't tell anyone will you? Thanks.

Cardigan: Nordstrom Rack
Tank: Nordstrom
Scarf: borrowed from my mom, Target
Jeans: Anoname, Nordstrom Rack
Boots: Kohls

Purple Craze

2011-01-03T21:24:00.000-08:00

I really did not feel well at all today so the one and only thing I was worried about was comfort. That meant jeans and loose tops. I picked this picked this patterned shell because I haven't worn it in forever (in fact, I've only worn it once). It has kind of an awkward hem so I tried to tuck it up, but I'm thinking I might just hem it later. My favorite thing about this outfit was my purple cardigan. For some reason, I've really felt myself drawn to it a lot lately. I'm thinking I might have to pick up a few more cardigans from Old Navy because they're just so versatile (maybe they'll have another sale!).

Cardigan: Old Navy
Top: c/o Nordstrom
Black Tank (underneath): Nordstrom Rack
Jeans: Express
Boots: Ugg Australia

Plaid Here, Lace There

2011-01-01T17:34:00.000-08:00

After mixing up my typical top tucked into a high waisted skirt silhouette a few days ago, I decided to try it again. I really like the boho/Western/vintage look that I got by wearing a plaid tunic with just a little bit of my lace skirt peeking out underneath. My boots and new maroon tights were perfect for providing a streamlined, but interesting finish. My only complaint? The relentless wind creating an awkward shape as my shirt kept trying to blow away. Regardless, I really loved this outfit!

Shirt: Charlotte Russe
Skirt: Target
Tights: Hue
Boots: Kohl's

All the World's a Stage

2011-01-01T17:24:00.000-08:00

That was my reasoning behind what I'm wearing. This outfit started simply, with just my new chambray button-down and skinny jeans, but then I just kept adding to it. Between the chain and the sequins, I think I almost got a look that's more suitable for a night on the town (this is Portland - cocktail dresses are few and far between) than to a high school basketball game. However, I figured that if the world is stage, then I might as well look as cute as I want for any occasion. I absolutely love this outfit. It's one of those outfits that kind of came together on its own, not preplanned or anything, and sometimes I those are the best!

Cardigan, necklace: Nordstrom
Shirt: H&M
Sequin top: Charlotte Russe
Belt: Michael Kors
Jeans: Express
Boots: Kohl's

If I were an eskimo...

2011-01-01T17:09:00.000-08:00

...this is what I would wear. However, I'm not an eskimo, so I'm not sure that I quite pull off the furry look. I've had this faux fur vest for a year or so, ever since I picked it up as part of a Halloween costume. Seeing as fur vests have been popping up everywhere lately, I decided to try my hand at styling the one I already own. Even though I really like how it looks layered over my fair isle sweater, there's just something about wearing a (fake) pelt that I'm not so sure about. So I wore this outfit on a day that I spent almost entirely within the confines of my own home as an experiment. Even though I've seen lots of outfits with fur vests that are super cute, I'm thinking this might have to be a trend that, like colored tights, I ease myself into.

What do you think of the furry vest trend?

Vest: Target
Sweater: Charlotte Russe
Jeans: Express
Boots: Ugg Australia

Keiko the Killer Whale

2011-01-01T16:51:00.000-08:00

I have always loved orca whales. When I was little, I loved to watch Free Willy and took a trip with my Grandma to visit Keiko at the Oregon Coast Aquarium. I even had a killer whale stuffed animal that was bigger than me! Nowadays, I especially love taking vacations with my family to the San Juan Islands, where we can watch the orca pods swimming though. I chose to represent my love for the animal subtly, with a mostly black ensemble and my whale tail necklace.

This was a very simple outfit for spending time with my friends and family over the holidays. However, I really enjoyed wearing my new black and white polka dot blouse with my orca whale necklace.

Blouse: H&M
Tank: Nordstrom Rack
Skinny jeans: Express
Boots: Ugg Australia
Necklace: gift

Sparkles and Hearts

2010-12-31T18:46:00.001-08:00

I purchased these tights at Urban Outfitters during my downtown shopping trip last Thursday and didn't realize they were sparkly until I pulled them out to wear them to church the next Sunday. Ironically, I have been wanted a pair of shimmering tights, although not so that I could wear them to church. I decided to go with it anyways, since really only my knee area is showing.

I really like the tiny red hearts with my red knit dress. I really haven't done a whole lot of pairing gray and brown together, but I like how the two neutrals play off of each other in a very bohemian, artsy way. The whole outfit comes together as something relaxed, but pretty.

Cardigan: F21
Dress: thrifted, Buffalo Exchange
Tights: Urban Outfitters
Boots: Kohls

Christmas Day

2010-12-31T18:36:00.000-08:00

I had a bit of an interesting Christmas this year. I decided to knit my mom a stocking for Christmas (my dad and I both have hand-knit ones and she always tells me how much she wishes she had one too), but definitely underestimated the time it would take. So even after working on it during ever spare moment I had, I was still only half way done when everyone else was headed to bed on Christmas Eve. So, in order to finish it, I stayed up until 6am on Christmas Day to finish it. I woke up at 8:30 to open presents and then promptly headed back to bed. This is what I wore when I finally decided to wake up and join the world of sane, rested people. Please ignore the pillow creases on my face.

I didn't want to wear anything that was red, green, or screaming Christmas, so I chose a still wintry combination of white, blue, and purple. I really love how fresh these colors look together. Halfway through the evening, however, I decided to pull my skirt down so that the waistband was around my hips, giving me a longer length with more leg coverage, and untuck my blouse. I found this improvement to be much more flattering and comfortable, but didn't have a chance to take additional pictures, so maybe you can just imagine it.

Cardigan: Old Navy
Teal top: F21
Skirt: Target
Belt: Nordstrom Rack
Tights: Target
Shoes: Payless

Christmas Eve

2010-12-31T18:29:00.000-08:00

This is what I wore for the Christmas Eve service at our church and dinner with my family. Although it may not look like it, I actually did iron my skirt before heading to church and my skirt was primarily wrinkle-free when I wore it. I really like my new polka dot blouse combined with this shimmery maroon skirt for a look that is just the right amount of dressy and festive without being over the top.

Blouse: H&M
Skirt: Charlotte Russe
Belt: Nordstrom
Tights: Target
Flats: Payless

Winter Floral

2010-12-31T18:03:00.000-08:00

Even though I haven't done an outfit post in over a week, I have actually been getting dressed! So please excuse the little winter break I took. I was just super busy with family and holiday fun! And then of course, there are college applications to do...

Anyways, I wore this for a pre-Christmas shopping trip downtown with a friend. I was comfortable enough to walk all over the place and warm despite the rain and chilly temperatures. I really love this outfit with the teal color of my scarf and the floral print of my dress. I was so excited that I was able to make a sundress that I purchased over the summer work in the middle of December.

Cardigan: F21
Dress: Nordstrom
Scarf: Old Navy
Belt: Nordstrom Rack
Tights: Target
Boots: Ugg Australia

30 for 30 Wrap Up

2010-12-29T17:34:00.000-08:00

Whoops! Remember back when I did that 30 for 30 thing? Well I forgot to post the wrap up of all my outfits! So here they are!

I'm pretty happy with the way it turned out. It really wasn't too difficult and definitely forced me to be a little more creative! I'm also pretty satisfied with the pieces I chose. There were only a few things that I didn't remix a whole lot, but I probably would have if I had more time. In fact, looking back at these pictures, I can think of a couple outfits that I didn't get to wear that I think I still might. The only thing I would have done differently is try on all the clothes I picked to make sure they fit and maybe have a back up pair of tights so in case I rip one of my everyday pairs again, I don't have to break the no shopping rules!

My favorites were 1, 3, 4, 9, 13, 14, 21, 23, 25, 26, and 30. Where there any that you liked in particular?

Caramel Delight

2010-12-21T14:14:00.000-08:00

I really loved this outfit - it has a certain slouchy, cozy feel to it, but is still cute. The color of this dress is so great and it has a fun little pattern on it that isn't visible in the pictures. The lace trim is a sweet touch.

I had been planning on wearing this dress with my chunky cardigan and boots to my friend's 18th birthday party, but had the hardest time figuring out which tights to wear. While doing some last minute Christmas shopping, I stopped in at Macy's to pick up a pair of maroon tights and found these caramel colored ones as well. They are a lighter shade than my other brown ones and work perfectly with my boots. Even though they're a neutral, they still bring a little extra color to the outfit!

Cardigan, dress: Nordstrom
Tights: Hue
Boots: Kohl's

Christmas Spirit

2010-12-21T13:07:00.000-08:00

This was what I wore Sunday evening to go into downtown Portland with my family. It is one of our Christmas traditions to visit Santaland, see the Christmas tree, and have dinner at the Rock Bottom Brewery. When my brothers and I were little, we loved to ride the monorail, walk the outside of the building to see the 12 Days of Christmas displays in the store windows, and, of course, sit on Santa's lap. Unfortunately, in 2005, Macy's took over all of the Meier and Frank stores and the holiday traditions didn't continue. My family and I still went downtown, walked around and had dinner.

I wanted to be festive, but not too dressed up so I layered a white cardigan with a floral applique over my cranberry red knit dress and topped it off with a fun headband.

Cardigan: Old Navy
Dress: Thrifted, Buffalo Exchange
Tights: Target
Boots: Ugg Australia
Headband: Nordstrom

Mr. Grinch

2010-12-20T12:50:00.000-08:00

This was one of the two outfits I wore yesterday (well, actually three, but seeing as one of those outfits involved sweats, only two will be making their way onto the blog). It is also another bonus 30 for 30 outfit. That means I'm technically up to 30 for 32, but I think I'll stop here. There's just too many other fun options in my closet to be constantly returning to my recently established 30 item comfort zone.

In hindsight, I guess I should have known better than to wear green tights the day after my family and I watched How the Grinch Stole Christmas, as my legs were the source of quite a few chuckles. Regardless, I liked this outfit. I like that my awkwardly green legs match my belt and make for a fresher spin on a dress I feel like I've worn a bazillion times. Also, although you can barely even see it in this picture, my favorite part of the outfit is the subtle mixing of prints by layering a striped tee under the plaid dress. So even though I look like a Grinch wannabe, I'm kind of secretly loving it.

Cardigan, plaid dress: F21
Belt, tights: Target
Flats: Charlotte Russe