Ashley

In styling

Clarise

August 12, 2015 6 Comments

For my first styling segment I decided to keep it pretty simple but fun with a casual look that was inspired by both the 70’s decade, since that has been one of the biggest trends this season, and bohemian-chic. Luckily, my beautiful friend Clarise was more than willing to be my model and had a nice selection of clothes to choose from. From the moment I saw this dress in her closet I instantly had my vision. I decided to make the frock the focal point of the look and just build around it with accessories. Since the dress was printed, I chose a black wide-brimmed hat and gladiator sandals to prevent clashing but still keep the look eye-catching and fashionable. For a pop of color, at the last minute, I also added a red backpack that seemed to tie everything together and compliment the dress pattern perfectly. Overall I’d say this shoot was a success! 😀

Aside from the pulling of the ensemble, I also tapped into another interest of mine which is makeup. Because this was a daytime look, I chose to keep the makeup pretty neutral with bronzy eyes and cheeks, finished off with a neutral brown lip. For hair, I thought it would be fitting to keep it sleek and straight because it is the most adaptable and I wasn’t sure what accessories I would be selecting until the day of. As a whole, I think that the hair and makeup worked seamlessly for the look. I am definitely pleased with my work for my first documented styling shoot and thankful to my friend for participating in this experience. Stay tuned for more to come!

In the vault

DENIM DAYS

August 6, 2015 18 Comments

If I had to choose my favorite fabrics, denim would definitely be in my top three. Why, you may ask? In my opinion, it is the perfect fabric because it is structured enough to almost always have you looking put together, and neutral enough to go with almost anything; in other words, an all-around winning situation. On this particular day, I decided to style this denim, oversized, long-line button up shirt as dress for a relaxed feminine vibe while I took a stroll around the streets of Harlem. Looks like these are perfect for running errands, meeting with friends, or simply hanging out around the city. As far as simplicity and comfort, I really don’t think you can go wrong with a denim dress and a cute pair of flats. I recently took to the stores to purchase a few more pairs to add to my collection and spice up my more casual ensembles. “Simple Summer.” I think that’s the motto I’m going to live by for the rest of the season. Wait, who am I kidding, I’m way too indecisive! Lol. Tell me what you prefer, bright and bold summer looks or more toned down outfits. Enjoy!:D

Outfit Details & Links:

Dress- Zara

Shoes- Zara

Sunglasses- Ferragamo

Bag- Dooney & Bourke

In the vault

FALL FEVER

July 31, 2015 17 Comments

In my last post, I ended with discussing my brewing feelings of excitement for the fall. So in order to somewhat satisfy that craving, I decided to style a look that incorporated more of a “fall-like” color palette. I felt that the warm neutral tone and knit texture of the top really added a vibe quite reminiscent to that of the fall. In all honesty though, this day was brutally hot but in my mind it was a beautiful 65 degrees. To get away from the sun, we decided to shoot at the New York public library where we could hide in the shade that the amazing architecture provided. There were so many amazing moments to be captured around every corner and we didn’t even make it inside! In order to avoid passing out in the summer heat, I decided to keep it cool in a pair of striped, loose flowing trousers and heeled sandals. I’m starting to think that I may have an undercover obsession with printed trousers……I don’t see the problem. Since we were at a location that is known for promoting intelligence and education, I also decided to finish the look off with my new frames to add more of a collegiate vibe to the look. Do you think they helped me blend in? Lol. For me, putting together different looks and scouting locations goes hand in hand. My main goal is to be able to tell stories with my outfits while finding new sites in the process. To all of you who have been on this journey with me from the beginning (a mere 4 months ago) I hope you are still enjoying it and loving the new creativity I try to bring with each post.

Outfit Details & Links:

Top- Zara

Trousers- Zara

Heels- Asos

Clutch- Urban Outfitters

Glasses- Versace

In the vault

BACK 2 BASICS

July 24, 2015 10 Comments

As we approach the middle of summer and the temperatures continue to rise, getting dressed begins to become more of a hassle than a luxury. In my opinion, the best way to cope with the heat during this time of year, and stay as cool as possible with your wardrobe, is to keep it simple; and what better way to do that than with a basic t-shirt dress and sneakers. Now don’t get me wrong, I know I chose a black dress with leather accents but it’s a lot cooler than it looks! LOL. The dual textures on the dress paired with the high- top, hidden wedge sneakers bring forth a sports luxe vibe that any fashionista can rock. I feel super edgy in looks like these and never hesitate to reach for them whenever I get the chance. In all honesty though, I’m really excited to whip out my fall fashion and see what exciting new trends are to come within the next few months; but for now I will continue to enjoy the heat while we have it. Let me know how you’re keeping cool. B)

Outfit Details & Links:

Dress- Urban Outfitters

Sneakers- Urban Outfitters

Necklace- Urban Outfitters

In the vault

SPORTY SPICE

July 17, 2015 8 Comments

In efforts to maintain my casual style this summer, I definitely think I’ve become a huge fan of the sporty chic look. Though the NBA was not my main inspiration behind this outfit, it appears that the paired pieces in this ensemble could definitely spark up some familiarity. I love this look because it is the definition of effortless for me. I really did not have to do much styling because in my opinion, the items spoke for themselves. The loose fitting knit tank brought an element of interest to the look in that it is a fabric not usually associated with the summer, while the shorts had their own surprise with the embellished details along the side seams. As per usual, I added heels for the fun of it and my single strap mules seemed to fit the relaxed vibe perfectly. To complete the look, I threw on my leather 5-panel cap to tie everything together and add some edge. This look may not be for everyone, but it totally works for me! 🙂

Outfit Details & Links:

Top- H&M

Shorts- H&M

Mules- Topshop

Hat- Urban Outfitters

In the vault

CONTEMPORARY CULOTTES

July 9, 2015 17 Comments

If you haven’t heard the term “culotte” at least once in the last 6 months, it is quite possible that you may be residing under a rock. Though used to describe many different types of garments throughout history, currently the term is used in reference to a style of trousers, usually cropped, with extremely wide flared legs. They come in a variety of styles and fabrics and have without a doubt taken the fashion world by storm lately. In efforts to slowly ease myself into the bold trend, I decided to start with a jumpsuit version. For starters, they require less effort to style and who doesn’t love a good jumpsuit?! The silhouette of the garment as well as the vibrant color made for an easily eye catching look that was perfect for the season. To keep the focus on the jumpsuit, I chose to complete the look with strappy nude heeled sandals. So tell me your thoughts on this trend. Love it, hate it?

Outfit Details & Links:

Jumpsuit- Topshop

Heels- Zara

In the vault

SHEER DAISY

July 4, 2015 5 Comments

In honor of the 4th of July, I thought it was only right that I recreate an outfit that I wore on last year’s Independence Day. Though I would use many different adjectives to describe my personal style, I would be lying if I said “casual” isn’t one of the main ones; and I think this look supports that. While I do love a good heel most of the time, summer days to me scream, “white sneakers, comfort, and cool.” I have also recently become on board with the backpack trend and I must say, I’m loving it! They’re so simple and convenient, and depending on style can definitely add some interest to your look. Overall this look is pretty simple, which is why I decided to incorporate as many textures as I could. I think the sheer fabric against the chambray and leather all work nicely to create a cohesive ensemble. Just thinking about this day a year ago makes me want to light up the grill and chow down on a juicy burger lol. So what’s your favorite summer trend? Enjoy your holiday!

Outfit Details & links:

Top: Urban Outfitters

Bralet: Free People

Skirt: Urban Outfitters

Leather Converse: Urban Outfitters

Backpack: Topshop

In the vault

SLIP ON

June 29, 2015 7 Comments

Last year the slip dress trend was huge, so I decided to reach in my closet and style something in honor of it. Not only are slip dresses completely appropriate for the summer heat, they also serve as a good excuse to bring some sexiness to the outside world with a piece that resembles something reserved for the bedroom. Knowing that I love a good contrast, I decided to pair a leather jacket against the dainty, lace trimmed dress. For shoes, I chose to go with minimal, single- strap mules that I felt added to the casual nature of the look. In my opinion, summer is the hardest season to dress for because most of the time when the heat is scorching, it’s much easier to opt for no clothes at all. For us girls though, it’s pieces like the slip dress that come in and save the day! They take no effort to throw on and still look put together while maintaining plenty of ventilation through the thin fabric. Also, I don’t know about you, but I personally think slip dresses look a little nicer than the typical tank and shorts. I’ll be stocking up on these this summer for sure!

Outfit Details & Links:

Jacket- Urban Outfitters

Dress- Urban Outfitters

Heels- Topshop

In the vault

MENSWEAR MOMENT

June 22, 2015 11 Comments

Fashion, like many other forms of art expression, can be very fluid and ambiguous especially when it comes to gender. Though I tend to dress more feminine on a day-to-day basis and accentuate a softer, and sometimes sexier side, every now and then I like to challenge myself to style something more rigid and structured. For this menswear inspired look, I decided to pair a stark white button up shirt with medium wash boyfriend jeans and loafers. I find that for menswear, it is best to keep the overall look simple with pieces that have subtle yet striking details. Though this look goes against my norm, I made sure to keep my signature present with an open back detail and my favorite leather tote. I personally think it’s important to stray from the usual way of doing things from time to time in order to promote creativity and keep your ideas fresh. So take a chance and step out of your comfort zone, I dare you! 🙂

Outfit Details & Links:

Top- Asos

Jeans- Forever 21

Loafers- Zara

Tote- Baggu

In the vault

MILITANT REBEL

June 16, 2015 8 Comments

Though I am the furthest thing from a “tomboy,” it’s safe to say that I definitely have an edgy side that I don’t mind expressing through my outfits. While I do find satisfaction in getting glammed up and partaking in other girly primping activities, there’s something about rugged and less refined pieces that really light a fire inside me. They tend to bring out a “don’t mess with me” kind of attitude that really makes me feel like I can do anything and no one better get in my way. For this look, I decided to use this vintage Marine jacket (stolen from my father from his Marine days) to add some grittiness to this look. In my opinion, bodycon dresses can sometimes be a little too sexy for daytime especially when paired with heels, so I almost always carry an extra layer of outerwear to throw on and tone things down while also making the look more casual. With such a bold print, accessories can definitely be left minimal and heels are optional. I challenge you to forgo the the glam for a day and let your inner rebel out. Girly is cute but edgy is way more fun! 😉

Outfit Details:

Jacket- Vintage

Dress- Urban Outfitters

Heels- Zara