A Styled Mind
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Ashley

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In the vault

MOODY FLORALS

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More than ever, I have really taken a liking to florals this season. It may have something to do with the fact that the prints are a lot more “moody” in the sense that they consist of darker tones which have honestly always been my preference. Garments with bold patterns such as these, whether vibrant or not, can also turn the most simple ensemble into a statement making look with minimal hassle or thought. I was drawn to this particular frock mainly because (as much as I love wearing black in the Winter) I like to challenge myself to bring a little color into my outfits during the Autumn season. Aside from that, I thought the length and classic fit of the dress was very flattering as well as feminine. In efforts to keep the look weather appropriate, I opted for my grey suede OTK boots, which somehow ended up being the perfect neutral piece for this particular look. It’s no secret that I am utterly OBSESSED with thigh-highs and am currently debating on my next style for this season; something bold perhaps? In true ASM fashion, I must always have an edgy element of contrast so I grabbed this over-sized vintage denim jacket (thanks Mom). The pairing of the outerwear piece was so necessary to me because aside from being practical and a true representation of where we are during this time of year, it also brought another layer of effortlessness to the entire outfit. After finishing off the look with one of my favorite dark nude lippies, I was on my way and out the door! As I style blogger, I really think it’s important to style looks that I would wear in my day to day life and provide suggestions without necessarily adhering to the “rules” and guidelines that we are told to follow. All in all, it’s just clothes so it’s only right that we experiment and wear what makes us feel most comfortable and confident! Comment below if you’re a fan of “moody florals,” brighter patterns, or none of the above. Until next time!

Outfit Details & Link:

Jacket- Vintage Gap

Dress- Zara

Boots- Marc Fisher

 

 

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In ASM Shop

SLOGAN TEES

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I’m a huge fan of slogan tees and the playfulness that they can add to any look. They fall right in line with what I consider the main point of fashion and that is, self expression. I don’t know about you, but I’ll definitely be adding a few more to my collection this season. Check out the items I’ve rounded up below and don’t forget to click the images to shop my picks. Until next time!!

 

 

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In the vault

UNFORGETTABLE UNIFORMS

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Though I’m typically not the biggest fan of over-exposed trends in regards to specific looks or individual pieces, I don’t mind making an exception if I feel like I can add my own twist and make the look representative of my personal style. That being said the sports-luxe trend doesn’t seem to be going anywhere anytime soon and these contrast side panel trousers, which in my opinion are one of the most popular items for this particular style, can be found almost EVERYWHERE. Though I did like them, I was hesitant to get the typical wide-legged version with buttons down the sides because I felt that they were a bit too casual and would go out of style a lot sooner. Luckily, after a bit of patience and research, I came across a more tailored option that I felt could be worn in more versatile settings in addition to just being trendy. I’m so happy I waited because I found that these pants serve as a great alternative for work as well as play. I also tend to prefer the option of dressing a more sophisticated garment down, than trying to dress up a casual piece—it just seems easier to me. In efforts to give my bottoms that “cool girl edge,” I found a slogan tee that could convey my playful vibe. Though I could’ve opted to go a more upscale route, I wanted to keep the look fairly effortless and carefree. Another ongoing trend from last year that seems to be taking the fashion world by storm is adding pops of bold colors. Red accessories have appeared to be the most prevalent and though I was initially leaning towards a pair of booties, these patent kitten-heel sling backs provided the perfect classic feminine touch that were unlike any pair of heels I currently own. Given the cooler temperatures that have started to become more consistent recently, it was a no-brainer for me to reach for my cropped leather jacket as an added layer. Finally, though the day was a bit gloomy, I added my round white sunnies to complete this look. I was definitely pleased with how this ensemble turned out despite being an extremely popular street-style look at the moment. While I wouldn’t necessarily consider myself and avid follower of trends, I don’t shy away from looks especially if I feel like they fit in with my wardrobe aesthetic. Let me know in the comments below if you don’t mind experimenting with popular trends, or if you ultimately choose to stay away from them. Until next time!

Outfit Details & Links:

Jacket- Urban Outfitters

T-Shirt- Zara

Trousers- & Other Stories

Heels- Zara

 

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In the vault

MUSTARD + MINI

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As a style blogger, though we may often plan and hope to shoot in the most pristine conditions, there are times when that falls out of our control and we must roll with the punches. On this particular rainy day, I had to do just that and while it was not my most ideal situation, the show had to go on! Luckily, I was quite pleased with my outfits and got into my zone rather quickly, aside from a few missteps along the way. It’s no secret that Fall is my favorite season and though I love embracing the neutral warm tones this time of year brings, I never shy away from adding a bit of contrast to the mix. On a recent shopping trip I was surprised to find the top and bottom to this look rather quickly despite having no real direction. The cozy mustard knit served as a perfect Autumn staple, while the metallic skirt added an unexpected pop of interest that somehow gave the sweater a bit of excitement and luxury. In my opinion, metallic pieces can definitely serve as neutrals and of course, go-to items as we approach the holiday season. To be honest, the hardest part was trying to find a shoe that would marry these two items and keep the look cohesive. Given the time of year, I figured booties would be the best option and I couldn’t have been more pleased with the pair I found. The silver accents perfectly complimented my metallic mini and tied the look together in a way that was seasonally as well as stylistically appropriate. To further finalize this look, I added my minimal silver watch and black fringe backpack; two accessories that have solidified their places as staples in my wardrobe. All in all, I thoroughly enjoyed styling this look and definitely plan to pair these pieces with other items in my wardrobe throughout the season. Let me know in the comments below if you’re a fan of Fall metallics or are more traditional, and prefer to bring them out only for special/holiday occasions. Until next time!

Outfit Details & Links:

Sweater- H&M

Skirt- H&M

Boots- Zara

Backpack- Topshop

Watch- Daniel Wellington

 

 

 

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In ASM Shop

SUITS

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The chic, sophisticated, bold, elegance that comes from a woman in a tailored suit is unmatched by any other garment. In my opinion, this is a transitional look that never fails to make a statement or look out of place. I’ve rounded up some of my favorite sets below and encourage everyone to own one this season if they don’t already. Don’t forget to click the images to shop my picks; until next time!

 

 

 

 

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In the vault

IF THE SUIT FITS…

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One of the first looks I shot when I first started my blog was a burgundy suit; and though I don’t wear them often, my love for the style has never faded. In my opinion, there’s something so powerful, chic, and sexy about a woman rocking this tailored look that never ceases to turn heads and stand out from the crowd. Though I felt like I was long overdue to style a set like this, the idea seemed to come at the most perfect time. Fall and Winter florals are a huge trend and this co-ord set couldn’t be more perfect for the season. The contrast of tones on these pieces make for the most beautifully bold, yet unexpectedly neutral look. That being said, I didn’t want to add anything that would distract from the print itself so I gravitated towards all black accessories and gold hardware. I found this mesh bodysuit that I thought was subtle enough not to take away from the ensemble, but still added a bit of edge on its own. Since my bag has a statement ring detail for the handle, I chose to keep things uniform and rock my new gold hoops that I recently picked up as well. It honestly amazes me how we can go through seasons of falling in and out of love with different styles and trends. During my middle and high school days, I was beyond obsessed with gigantic hoop earrings and would never complete an outfit without them. I must say though after years of only rocking studs, I forgot how much I loved the look and might have to start up a new collection again, lol. I have absolutely no complaints about this look and may try to incorporate more sophisticated pieces into my wardrobe this season. Let me know in the comments if you’re a lover of suits or prefer to keep it casual. Until next time!

Outfit Details & Links:

Suit Blazer- Zara

Suit Trousers- Zara

Bodysuit- Honey Punch

Heels- Asos

Bag- Nordstrom

Earrings- & Other Stories

 

 

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In ASM Shop

TURTLENECKS

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In my opinion, turtlenecks are one of the closet staples that have never and will never go out of style. Their different variations in fit and structure make them a universal piece that has transcended decades and will continue to live in our wardrobes for many years to come. Check out some of the sweaters I’ve rounded up below and don’t forget to click the images to shop my picks. Until next time!

 

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In the vault

PRINTS ON PRINTS

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Being a blogger, it may appear that there is an endless amount of excitement that constantly goes on during our day-to-day; however, I’m here to talk about the less fun parts of the so-called “bloggersphere.” One major thing that I experienced specifically in preparation for this shoot was a lack of inspiration. Being a person that takes pride in challenging my style and loves to experiment with versatility when putting looks together, it can sometimes get frustrating when you feel like everything in the stores begins to look the same and rather redundant. For this particular look, I had to force myself to step out of my comfort zone and grab pieces that I may not typically reach for, while still sticking to my signature styling techniques. Since we’re moving towards the Fall, I knew I wanted to layer a few pieces but I wasn’t quite sure what. I’ve paired various tops under dresses in the past and it’s a look that I’m comfortable in so I didn’t mind moving in that direction. Checkered prints are always very popular during the cooler seasons and whether it be plaid, houndstooth, or gingham they always seem to look quite chic. When I saw this slip-style printed dress with its lace accents I was instantly intrigued because though its not my usual vibe, I knew I could create an interesting ensemble with it. When buying what I would consider to be the “main” piece of an outfit, I tend to make it the focal point and build around it with more neutral pieces. This time, however, I was on a mission to find something that was just as eye-catching and bold. Though it did take me an entire afternoon of shopping around, I finally found the piece I was looking for! This vibrant striped turtleneck that in my opinion was very reminiscent of a Circus tent , gave an unexpected Parisian element to this dress when paired underneath. In efforts to keep a slight contrast from the rather feminine looking frock, I chose to finish off the look with my overly worn and dearly beloved leather sneakers. For me, adding a pair of casual footwear to an otherwise tailored look, always seems to create the perfect balance of fashion and cool. Overall, I felt like I accomplished my mission and styled an outfit that was very much “Me,” but also strayed from the usual. Let me know what your style struggles in the comments below; until next time!

Outfit Details & Links:

Top- Urban Outfitters

Dress- Zara

Sneakers- Converse

 

 

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In ASM Shop

ONE SHOULDER TOPS

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Off the shoulder tops aside from being trendy, are also a go-to item when adding a unique twist to any look. I love tops in this style because they also bring a flirty element in showing off a piece of skin in an unexpected, yet appealing way. Take a look at some of the items I’ve gathered below and don’t forget to click the images to shop my picks! Until next time!

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In Collabs

ASM X DW

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As a huge lover of Fall, I am beyond ready for all of the cute seasonal activities, new drink options, and of course the fashion! From the moment I laid eyes on these forest green trousers, I was instantly sold and knew they would be extremely fitting for an Autumn look. What drew me to them aside from the color, was the paper bag style waist that is surprisingly unlike anything I currently own. This style of pant is perfect for creating a cinched waistline and giving a more tailored vibe to any look. Though I usually tend to lean towards the contrast of pairing formal and casual pieces, I decided to keep the outfit on the sophisticated side. Have you ever seen an item in a storefront window and walked past it numerous times and right before leaving you realize you HAVE to have it?? Well, that was basically the story behind this top. I’ve been seeing the one-shoulder trend a lot lately and though I didn’t initially think it would be something I would like or find flattering, this blouse completely changed my mind! Additionally, I thought the exposed arm detail really made this a unique piece that added a bit of unexpected interest to the entire ensemble. To offset the darkness of the trousers, I chose a pair of white pumps to keep the look balanced and fun. As a final accessory, I chose to wear my new Daniel Wellington watch which I felt added the perfect touch to complete this look. I love this piece because of its classic, minimal design that makes styling effortless. Honestly, after working at a watch store for 3 years, I really haven’t been reaching for my collection. That being said, this DW piece definitely makes me want to dabble back into it and see what other pieces of arm candy I forgot I had! Until next time!!

Outfit Details & Links:

Top- Nordstrom

Pants- Zara

Heels- Zara

Watch- Daniel Wellington

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