Ashley

In the vault

SASSY STAPLES

February 28, 2017 2 Comments

While it may be a wonderful idea to have a killer outfit every single day, in reality, we all have those moments where we truly have no idea what to wear. During these times I tend to stick to the more staple items in my closet; you know, jeans, t-shirts, button ups, etc. That said, there is so much variety in fashion, even your basic pieces don’t necessarily have to be…BASIC. On this particular shooting day, I was going through this exact dilemma and while I didn’t mind reaching for one of my many white tops, I still wanted my look to have a bit of “pizzazz!” At that point, I remembered that I had recently purchased a shirt that was slightly cropped, had elongated sleeves, and a lace-up detail on the back; it was PERFECT. This leads me to my next staple, jeans. While the skinny-fit is probably still one of the most popular, I find that during the day if not worn with heels, it can also be the most casual. In my opinion, other cuts of denim and darker washes usually tend to elevate the ensemble while making it appear more put together; hence why I opted for my favorite (and only) pair of flares. I absolutely love wearing these nautical inspired jeans because they have the perfect snug fit around the hips and make my legs look super long, which is a HUGE plus for us shorter ladies. Simple looks like this allow a lot of room for accessorizing, but as I am still growing my collection, I just grabbed some aviators and threw on a red lip for a pop of color. A statement bag could definitely take this look to the next level, but if you’re feeling as laid back as I was, a leather tote will do the trick just the same. I finished off the look with a pair of black and brown minimal heels and was ready for a day of shopping, brunching, and a nice walk around the city. Never forget, no matter how “basic” or intricate your look may appear, it’s all in the details. Until next time!

Outfit Details & Links:

Top: Zara

Jeans: Express

Heels: Urban Outfitters

Bag: Baggu

In ASM Shop

SOCK BOOTIES

February 23, 2017 No Comments

Sock booties have become increasingly popular lately and seem to go with just about any outfit. Whether with a skirt or dress, mom jeans or boyfriend cut, this style of footwear never ceases to disappoint. Compared to the traditional more structured boots, I feel as though the sock feature provides a lighter more subtly sleek look. I have rounded up a few of my favorite pairs and encourage you to shop my picks below. Don’t forget to click the images for direct links to the footwear; until next time!

In the vault

SPRING SWEATS

February 21, 2017 No Comments

Truthfully, I haven’t owned a matching sweatsuit since the early 2000’s and if anyone had told me that I would be wearing one in 2017 a few year’s ago, I probably would’ve laughed in their face. As most trends do however, this is another one that has circled back around and into my current wardrobe. Over the last few years joggers and hoodies have become increasingly popular in regards to the more “cozy” street style look; so I suppose it was only a matter of time before matching sets arrived on the scene as well. I bought this particular co-ord set for NYFW and it was both practical for the crappy weather, and surprisingly one of my favorite looks. Aside from being ridiculously warm and comfortable, the chic off-the-shoulder detail of the sweater and lace up trousers with tapered cuffed pant legs, made for the perfect statement but effortless look. The only thing I actually changed when styling this look that differed from what I actually wore during fashion week was my outerwear. Luckily, I shot this on a beautiful 60-degree day which prompted me to make this look a little more Spring appropriate. I opted for my Dad’s authentic Marine Corps jacket and absolutely loved the extra edge and interest that the camo print added to this outfit. As this was such a casual look, I didn’t find it necessary to grab a bag however I did throw on my clear aviator frames to accessorize. In my opinion, this is one of those looks that can easily allow you to feel like the coolest girl in the room no matter what environment you end up in. I have also tried styling this sweatsuit with other footwear options including loafers and sneakers and I loved it just as much! I look forward to getting a lot of wear out of this ensemble and mixing up the pieces individually for other versatile looks. Let me know your opinion of sweatsuits in the comments below; until next time!

Outfit Details & Links:

Top- Zara

Bottoms- Zara

Heels- Zara

Jacket- Vintage

Glasses- NYS

In ASM Shop

GRAPHIC TEES

February 16, 2017 No Comments

I’d be lying if I said I was in any way surprised that graphic tees have once again resurfaced as a trend. There’s something so nostalgic, effortless, and edgy about them that makes it fun to just throw them on with practically anything. What’s also great about these pieces is that you can find them anywhere from the showrooms of well known designers to your local thrift store. Check out the tees I’ve rounded up below and don’t forget to click the images to shop my picks! Until next time!

In the vault

EXPRESS YOURSELF

February 14, 2017 3 Comments

Being that we are in the midst of New York Fashion Week, I decided to create a look that I felt represented this exciting time. In my opinion, this is the moment to have the most fun experimenting with different clothing and letting your style speak for itself while showcasing exactly who you are. For me, I had a bit of trouble piecing this look together (believe it or not) as it is slightly out of my comfort zone. Of course, I’ve layered dresses over tops before and worn sneakers with more formal pieces, but there was something about this look that I struggled with. I guess I could say taking a previously worn New Year’s Eve dress and transforming it into a daytime look was a bit bolder than what I’m used to. That said, my main priority and what I feel like is most important when styling yourself, is making sure that you feel comfortable, confident, and authentic. You should never feel like you are putting on a costume or wearing something just because it’s on trend. In the end, I found a way to make this look work for me by toning it down with black accessories and really leaving the dress as the focal piece. I used my leather jacket as sort of a “safety blanket” (lol) and paired it with my most worn choker for some additional familiarity. In efforts to provide a bit more contrast however, I opted for my white backpack instead of my traditional black one. By the time I left my apartment to shoot, I can honestly say I was quite pleased with how this look turned out. From the differing textures, to the mix of casual and more elegant garments, everything seemed to come together pretty seamlessly. Now, my last suggestion in tackling NYFW or just dressing for every day life, is to simply have fun with it because at the end of the day, “life’s too short to wear boring clothes! Until next time!

Outfit Details & Links:

Jacket- Urban Outfitters

Dress- Nasty Gal

T-shirt- Forever 21

Sneakers- Adidas

Backpack- Zara

In the vault

FISHNETS + FUR

February 7, 2017 2 Comments

I think we’re all finally approaching the time of year where everyone is over the frigid temperatures. These days, it’s been more of a struggle than ever to find the effort to remain comfortable, chic, and warm when getting dressed. That said, I’ve been reaching for more basics and staple pieces, rather than going for crazy statement-making garments. For this outfit, I kept it very simple with a sleeveless black turtleneck and my extremely worn-in, distressed boyfriend jeans. This is the perfect look for those days when you literally feel like you have “nothing to wear” or just don’t have the time and energy to waste. On the upside, the great thing about styling classic pieces is that they provide the perfect foundation for layering and/or playing around with different accessories. To add a little personality and edge to this particular ensemble, I added some fishnet tights and my new black flats with an over-sized bow detail. These two pieces alone, easily transformed this look and made it much more fun and put-together. In order to balance out the hints of skin I had showing on my lower half, I threw on one of my favorite neutral faux fur coats for a bit more drama and contrast to the denim. I’ve found that no matter how casual your outfit may be, throwing on a little accent (or a lot lol) of fur will always elevate it and bring an element of chicness. To finish off the look, I decided to incorporate my prescription glasses which I wear a lot more than most people probably know. Whether worn practically or just for style, I love experimenting with different frames and definitely plan on adding more to my collection for the days when I feel like switching up my look. All in all, I think this outfit is a clear example of how less can definitely be more and simple can still be bold. Until next time!

Outfit Details & Links:

Coat- Topshop

Top- Zara

Jeans- Levis

Tights- Urban Outfitters

Flats- Zara

Glasses- Versace

In ASM Shop

PLAID PIECES

February 2, 2017 No Comments

There’s something about plaid in the winter months that always looks classic, chic, put-together, and above all else, COZY! I am definitely a fan of plaid and checkered prints outside of the typically casual flannels. Check out the plaid pieces I’ve chosen below and don’t forget to click the images below for direct links to shop the items! Until next time!

In the vault

PLAID AFFAIR

January 31, 2017 1 Comment

You know, I’m really not much of a bargain shopper. Not because I don’t love a great deal, but because of the amount of effort it takes to rummage through a million items in a store that have been thrown around carelessly just because the retailer decided to put a huge “SALE” sign in the front window; but I digress. That being said, I have been trying to make more of an effort recently to take advantage of the semi-annual sales most stores are having and I must say, when you find a gem, it makes all the blood, sweat, and tears worth it. Okay, so maybe I was exaggerating a bit, but you get what I mean, LOL. On this particular shopping trip I was lucky enough to find these amazing plaid trousers! As soon as I saw them, I literally put down everything I had in my arms as the other pieces just seemed to pale in comparison. The length, color scheme, and zipper detail alone made them absolutely perfect in my eyes in addition to the major price reduction. I instantly knew that I had to create a look around them and was quite pleased with how this one turned out. For whatever reason, I immediately envisioned an off the shoulder Bardot top to compliment these pants and I couldn’t have found a more perfect option. The elongated sleeves and ruffled top seam, provided subtle high-fashion elements that I felt this look was missing. To add a bit of movement and dimension, instead of adding my typical black choker, I decided on a skinny scarf; that was originally attached to a shirt I haven’t seen in some time. To finish off the look I added a pair of simple, black heeled sandals and my “Rexy” wristlet for a touch of quirkiness. Despite the brisk winds, I really enjoyed styling and shooting this look. I felt very “artsy-chic” in this ensemble and it may be a style that I revisit more often in the upcoming warmer months. Until next time!

Outfit Details & Links:

Top- H&M

Trousers- Zara

Heels- Michael Kors

Scarf- Forever 21

Bag- Coach

In ASM Shop

SHEARLING JACKETS

January 26, 2017 No Comments

Shearling coats, especially in the “biker jacket” style, have been extremely popular this season. While this piece of outerwear may be on the more trendy side, they easily provide a cozy layer of warmth and edge to any look. Whether from a high end designer or more affordable brand, there are so many variations to choose from and I am personally a huge fan! Click the images below for direct links to my picks; happy shopping!

In the vault

SHEARLING + DENIM

January 24, 2017 2 Comments

I think I would have to say one of the trendiest pieces of outerwear this season is the shearling biker jacket. Many brands from luxury to lower-end retailers have all made a variation and I’m definitely here for it! With so many choices to pick from however, I had to really consider which coat would suit my wardrobe best. Though I was very tempted to go for an all-black leather option, I opted for a softer suede version with cream trim. Being an owner of many leather jackets already, I liked this piece because it was just as versatile, while still providing an element of contrast that I didn’t already see in my closet. In order to keep the focus on the coat, I decided to pair it with a denim shirt-dress. What I love most about denim is that it can easily provide another layer of dimension by mixing textures, yet remains neutral enough to go with everything and not overpower the ensemble. This piece in particular was also adorned with a few patches that I thought added a quirky lighthearted touch to the overall look. To keep things chic and weather appropriate, I grabbed my go-to thigh high boots that have remained a staple in my wardrobe for the last 2 years, and have definitely earned the title as one of my most worn pairs of shoes this season. For accessories, I opted for a small cream and gold box bag and my matching gold frames which perfectly highlighted the colors of my jacket. Since I felt like I was still missing a pop of color, I finished the look off with a red lip which I think always looks super classic against denim. I can’t lie, I was definitely channeling “off-duty model” vibes with this look and I was quite pleased with how it turned out. Until next time!

Outfit Details & Links:

Coat- Zara

Dress- Zara

Boots- Aldo

Bag- Urban Outfitters