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In the vault

RAINBOW

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Coming off the heels of NYFW, I can honestly say that I was truly inspired. So much so, that I wanted to challenge myself by incorporating the vibrant colors I saw on and off the runways into my current Fall wardrobe. I bought this dress in particular for a girl’s trip to Miami, and unfortunately ran out of time before I could wear it. Previously, I would’ve never thought I could style a wrap dress like this, let alone considerate it appropriate for the cooler months in NYC. That being said, I decided to give it a go and ended up being completely in love with the result! Clearly this frock was the focal piece, yet despite the various colors throughout, I decided to play off of the subtle black stripes in the design. Though we are still getting a few glimpses of Summer with the inconsistent forecast, I chose this as the perfect opportunity to dust off my leather thigh-high boots and see if they could still handle these city streets. Styling dark accessories can sometimes become overpowering and make an ensemble feel too weighed down. In efforts to prevent this issue, I made sure to space out the black accent items and find pieces that varied in texture. The belt bag I purchased, while incorporating leather, also had an unexpected suede layer beneath the clasp. Additionally, I also decided to add a hat– I know what you’re thinking, “SHOCKING!” I think it’s pretty evident that I have no problem taking risks with my style or stepping out of my comfort zone when I find a piece that I feel will suit me. The “baker boy” hat trend has been popular since the last Autumn/Winter season, and while I wasn’t the biggest fan at first, this vinyl version really peaked my interest enough to try it for myself. Quite frankly, I’m just happy I was able to make this dress work now instead of having to store it in the back of my closet until next year. With silk & satin also being popular fabrics at the moment, I’m already thinking of ways to re-style this dress for the colder months. I can already picture it with either a blazer on top and/or a thin turtleneck underneath for some extra layers. Let me know in the comments how you would style this dress, or if you have Summer pieces from your own closet that might make their way into your Fall wardrobe. Until next time!

Outfit Details & Links:

Dress- Asos

Boots- Zara

Hat- Topshop

Belt Bag- Zara

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In the vault

SHORT SUIT

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I feel like I’ve been looking for a short suit for literally the longest, so it only make sense that I was finally able to get my hands on one at the end of the Summer– just my luck. Either way, I was thrilled when I found it and had zero hesitation when trying it on and bringing it to the counter for purchase. What I love about this particular separate is that although it’s bold and eye-catching, there’s something muted about the tones that really make this look wearable all year round, even if it’s just the blazer. With New York Fashion Week finally here, having a bold ensemble that requires minimal effort to style is also a significant plus when running around from show to show. Two things I was sure of when styling this ensemble is that I didn’t want the look to be too “matchy,” and I wanted it to appear as effortless as possible. To complete this vision, I decided not to coordinate with any of the colors within the suit’s print and instead opted for a bralette in a neutral cream shade. To me, this kept the look light and fresh, without taking away from the statement focal pieces. In a similar color, I had also purchased a pair of slip-on sandals that perfectly complimented the crop top and kept the look grounded, as well as slightly more casual despite the intricate details throughout. Last but not least, in efforts to add a final touch of interest and cohesiveness with the circular belt detail on the shorts, I chose a pair of mixed metal hoops to tie everything together and complete this look. For me, I couldn’t have picked a better outfit to end the Summer season and I am now officially ready to start embracing autumnal pieces and mentally preparing for the cooler temperatures we will soon be faced with. Stay tuned for what’s to come and until next time!

Outfit Details & Links:

Suit- Topshop

Bralette- Zara

Sandals- Splendid

Earrings- Zara

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In the vault

LABOR DAY WEEKEND SALES

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Can you believe it’s already September?!!?!!!! I don’t where the Summer (or this year for that matter) has gone, but I suppose time does fly when you’re having fun… or just extremely busy, LOL. Though I’m sure we’re all making the most of what some consider to be the last official weekend of the Summer, who would I be if I didn’t add a little shopping to the mix as well? Below I’ve rounded up some direct links and codes to my favorite brands currently offering Labor Day sales. Have an amazing extended weekend and see you in the Fall!

  • URBAN OUTFITTERS
    • Get 30% off sale items (in Stores + online)
    • Ends 9/3
  • ASOS
    • Get 20% off everything to celebrate Labor Day weekend with code DAYOFF
    • Ends 8/30
  • ULTA
    • Get a 20% coupon with qualifying purchases with code 679729
    • Ends 9/1
  • BLOOMINGDALES
    • Get up to 60% off
    • Ends 9/3
  • MANGO
    • Get up to 30% off purchases over $150
    • Ends 9/4
  • & OTHER STORIES
    • Get 20% off all SALE styles during Labor Day Weekend with code LABORDAY20
    • Ends 9/3
  • L’OCCITANE
    • Get a FREE handcream gift with $95 purchase + receive a FREE bonus beauty gift with any $200 purchasE with code GRAND
    • Ends 9/3
  • NORDSTROM
    • Get up to 40% off
    • Ends 9/9
  • SAKS FIFTH AVE
    • Get up to 75% off
    • Ends 9/3
  • ALDO
    • Get 40% off your 2nd item + Free shipping
    • Ends 9/3
  • TOPSHOP
    • Get up to 30% off
    • Ends 9/3
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In the vault

SUMMER LAYERS

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As we are quickly approaching the final days of Summer, getting dressed can become tricky when it comes to styling looks appropriate for the constantly fluctuating temperatures. To alleviate this stress and still look put together, layering has proven to be the most popular solution; and for this look I did just that! It’s so funny to see trends from my childhood and other decades past continuously resurfacing in 2018. For instance, this satin ruched slip dress pays direct homage to 90’s fashion. Recently, I’ve seen a lot of frocks like this one styled under blazers, and though I do like that look, I wanted to create an even more toned down effortless ensemble. I found a cropped white hoodie and while it may be too warm for it now, the juxtaposition of styles really made me that much more excited for the Fall. While I wouldn’t generally pair these two fabrics together, I felt that they created an interesting silhouette and seamlessly brought both masculine and feminine elements to the overall look. The simple structure of the sweatshirt and flowy-ness of the dress made for great foundational pieces but I still needed a few accessories to tie everything together. I could’ve easily thrown on a pair of sneakers to complete this outfit, but I wanted to bring a bit more elevation and interest. To my surprise, I stumbled upon a pair of multicolored pumps that had a very eye-catching firework-like design. At this point the look was nearly complete but I felt there was still room for a bit of edge. Belt bags and fanny packs have also made their way back from the 80s and I am a huge fan of the hands-free alternative. After finding one that I felt suited this ensemble best, I was ready to take on the world! During these transitional times of year, I love pairing minimal garments that can easily be layered and transformed into a variety of looks throughout the day. For example, if wanted to ditch the hoodie, add a light denim jacket, a cute pair of mules, & a clutch I would be ready for a casual happy hour in no time—and this my friends is the beauty of styling basics. Let me know in the comments below if you’re excited for Fall and how you plan on tackling your looks for the upcoming seasons. Until next time!

Outfit Details & Links:

Hoodie- Zara

Dress- Zara

Heels- Zara

Bag- Zara

 

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In the vault

LEOPARD + LEATHER

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While Fall is my favorite season when it comes to styling looks, knowing that it is right around the corner already gives me feelings of excitement as well as anxiety. To say the year is flying by would be an understatement, so in efforts to embrace the last bit of Summer we have left and sneak in a few autumnal trends, I created this look! As we move into cooler months, there are a few staples that always seem to take retailers by storm in a major way; two of my favorites being leather and animal prints. Whether worn together or separate, both can bring chic and edgy elements to any look! This look came together in no time as I found the main focal pieces in the same store. What initially drew me to this shirt in particular was the fact that the print wasn’t overly warm-toned. A lot of times when I see leopard/cheetah printed garments, they typically consist of brown shades and sometimes even orange. I liked this shirt because the base color was light enough that it was almost neutral, meaning that I could style it all year round and wear it with basically any type of jewelry regardless of the metal color. This worked to my advantage as I also came across a pair of leather, paper-bag waist shorts with silver hardware on the belt. Of all the leather garments I own, I happened to be missing a pair of shorts so this purchase was an instant no-brainer. Though both pieces had their own intricate and bold details, I needed to find accessories to tie everything together. For shoes, I decided to step out of my comfort zone and finally try a pair of Perspex sandals. I had been purposely avoiding this trend as I felt like most styles I had seen thus far either looked cheap or just simply weren’t flattering on the foot. To my surprise, I was really drawn to these nude heels along with the subtle chicness and elevation they added to this ensemble. I also felt like they kept the Summer essence was striving to maintain with the off-white base and clear vinyl strap. I wore my favorite pair of geometric earrings to coordinate with the studs along the belt and threw on a red lip for an extra pop of color. Let me know what you think of this look in the comments below and if, like me, you can’t wait to see what the next season of fashion brings. Until next time!

Outfit Details & Links:

Top- Topshop

Shorts- Topshop

Heels- Zara

Earrings- & Other Stories

 

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In Collabs

ASM X REEL

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Can you believe it’s already August?!?! The Summer is flying by and it won’t be long before we’re all transitioning into our layered looks and craving pumpkin lattes; but let’s enjoy the moment, shall we? I purchased this white frock a few weeks ago and honestly had no immediate plans of styling it. I simply loved the minimal nature of this piece and how it combined the classic elements of the collared shirt with the modern twist of an asymmetrical hem. Finally, the right moment presented itself and I knew that I had to act fast if I wanted to showcase this tunic before the season came to an end. It’s no secret that I prefer heels to flats majority of the time. That said, if I’m going to wear a flat shoe chances are it is a neutral sneaker of some kind. I now have three pairs that I rotate within my day to day wardrobe and they are all either black, white, or a combination of the two. After a few months of contemplation, I bit the bullet and decided to jump on the Van bandwagon. I was initially hesitant because I wasn’t sure if this style of sneaker would suit me or work with my personal style– needless to say, I was completely wrong. Funny enough I felt like such a “cool kid” wearing them, I couldn’t believe I had waited so long to give them a try! With my look nearly complete it was time for accessories. I recently collaborated with the brand called Reel which is a platform designed to promote guilt-free shopping while helping you save for the items of your dreams! I tried this service out for myself and couldn’t have been more pleased with my experience. I loved that I had full control over the amount I was putting aside as well as the length of time I planned to save for. This truly made for a low-stress and pressure free environment to spend at will. I decided to save for a new card holder and with constant email updates every step of the way, I had my luxury item in my possession before I knew it! I highly recommend giving Reel a try and for some added incentive you can use my code ASM15 for a $15 credit on any Reel of $100 or more! To really show off my new gem, I thought it would be fun to have it displayed front and center through this vinyl clutch. To further coordinate with the clear accents, I added a pair of rounded sunnies which really tied the look together and solidified the effortlessly casual look I was going for. I hope to get in a few more Summer looks while the weather allows it, so stayed tuned for what’s to come! Until next time!

Outfit Details & Links:

Dress- Zara

Sneakers- Vans

Bag- Zara

Card Holder- YSL

Sunglasses- & Other Stories

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In ASM Shop

DARK FLORALS

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When styling prints I’ve always had a preference towards darker florals. They always seem to create eye-catching moments while still remaining neutral enough to wear in a variety of ways. Below I’ve rounded up a few pieces that have caught my eye lately. Don’t forget to click the images to shop my picks! Until next time!

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In the vault

FOREVER FLORAL

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While I consider my style to be pretty versatile, there are a few pieces that I tend to repeat and can’t seem to get enough of. I’ve never been one to shy away from prints; the most prevalent in my wardrobe probably being florals. I honestly don’t know what it is about a dark floral pattern that always seems to pull me in and immediately want to style whatever item they are featured on. Most commonly, and probably the easiest garments to style would have to be dresses. I don’t think I need to reiterate exactly what makes them one of the most effortless pieces you can wear, but it’s no secret that a floral frock can have you looking put together in a matter of minutes! This one for instance had all the eye-catching elements I would look for when purchasing a focal piece; so much so that I barely had to put in any additional effort to complete the ensemble. The patchwork print, scoop neck, and neutral buttons down the front really made this dress everything I could have asked for and more! The only detail that I was not so keen on was a sash that came tied around the waist. In my opinion, the idea of a belt for this look was totally unnecessary and slightly overkill. Luckily, it was removable so I decided to use it as an extra accent on my bag strap to further compliment the dress. I wanted to keep the Summery feel while still adding a bit of edge, so I felt like this structured wicker and leather cross-body was the best option. I then completed the look with my favorite minimal mules and was out the door! While I do love dressing up, every now and then I like to style easy looks that require minimal thought and easily come together without a lot of fuss. This outfit is the epitome of that and I was absolutely thrilled with how it turned out! I’m also looking forward to styling this dress with thigh high boots and a leather jacket in the Fall, so stay tuned. Until next time!

 

Outfit Details & Links:

Dress- Free People

Bag- Free People

Heels- Topshop

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In Collabs

ASM X MACY’S PT. 2

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For my second Macy’s look, I was given a pair of denim shorts to style as my focal piece. With this came excitement as well as a bit of anxiety being that having such a simple item gave me free reign to literally take the look in any direction; but I was up for the challenge! Before even browsing the website, I knew I wanted to dress-up the look with more formal pieces and a blazer was the first thing that came to mind. It didn’t take long before I found this gorgeous printed piece that just screamed, “Summer chic!” The light blue base and abstract yellow floral design really embodied exactly what I was looking for, and ended up being the perfect contrast against the dark-wash denim. With such a bold piece of outerwear, a simple tank top or t-shirt was the only option that made sense to me for layering with this ensemble. Lucky for me, the night before my shoot, I was able to find a ribbed top that perfectly matched a pair of mules I had also purchased and swapped into this look at the last minute. In efforts to accessorize a bit, I thought it would be cool to compliment the gold hardware on my shoes and throw on a pair of clear aviator frames. Personally, while I didn’t think they were a necessity, I appreciated the quirky twist they added to the outfit overall. I was definitely pleased with how this look turned out and loved the versatility of the pieces I paired together. Let me know in the comments if you would’ve styled the shorts in a similar way or gone a completely different route. Until next time!

Outfit Details & Links:

Blazer- DKNY

Top- Urban Outfitters

Shorts- Levis

Mules- DKNY

 

 

 

 

 

 

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In the vault

L.W.D.

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I think it’s safe to say we’ve all heard of the acronym “LBD,” and I’m even more certain most of us ladies have at least one go-to in our closets. The little black dress serves as a classic wardrobe staple that always comes in handy when we are down to the wire and can think of nothing else (or better) to wear. I mean what’s not to love; the LBD is usually slimming, appropriate for most events, and easily paired with just about anything. That being said, I’d like to think of the LWD as its increasingly popular cousin that is slowly becoming a clothing essential of its own. Initially, I saw the little white dress included on styling guides mostly geared towards vacation and holidays. Recently however, that seems to have changed as there are so many variations of this frock on the market; it has become an easy alternative to the traditional LBD. Especially during the warmer months, there’s something so refreshing and minimal about this garment it’s no surprise that it has slowly taken over the closets of many. When I came across this tuxedo inspired version I was instantly sold! The tailored style accented with flowing pleats along the skirt really made this piece the perfect marriage of structure and movement. Because this dress also appeared more formal in my opinion, I decided to play against that and make it a bit more casual and fun. To do this, the first accessory I grabbed was a pair of bright red retro inspired cat-eye frames. While I’m not sure how well this pair in particular suits me, I loved how they popped against the overall stark ensemble. On the more monochrome front, I kept it very simple and plain with probably the most worn pair of white sneakers I own (sidebar: tell me your favorite style/brand of white sneakers in the comments below!). Lastly, to tie everything together, I opted to finish off the look with a multicolored striped crossbody bag; which I am absolutely certain I’ll be styling a lot during the Spring/Summer months. So tell me, are you a LBD or LWD type of girl? Until next time!

Outfit Details & Links:

Dress- Zara

Sneakers- Converse

Sunglasses- Zara

Bag- Zara

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