neutral – Page 2 – A Styled Mind

In the vault

TOTALLY TEXTURED!

September 24, 2020 No Comments

The easiest way to break up an entirely neutral or monochrome look would be the pairing of a variety of textures. I tend to rely on this rule most heavily during he cooler months as the color palettes begin to get darker, and it can be trickier to have your wardrobe essentials stand out. Because I knew I was dealing with only two colors for this entire outfit, brown and black, I figured this would be the perfect opportunity to test out this theory! I bought this coat recently during one of the huge end of Summer sales and instantly knew it was a statement piece I’d get my cost per wear out of this season, and many more to come. Snake-print is another trend that doesn’t seem to be going anywhere, so I was more than happy to add this beauty to my closet. Knowing this would be the focal piece, I wanted to find a way to layer other garments under it that were understated enough not to clash, but also eye-catching. After a bit more browsing online and through my own collection, I finally put it together! I chose a sheer, black checkered top and a mini skirt which proved to be the most perfect combination. The pieces were simple yet edgy and though they may have come off a bit risque on their own, under the bold trench, they were every bit of chic! For the first time this season, I also pulled out my favorite croc embossed black booties. These tied the look together and kept the ensemble streamlined while still adding height and balance against the more revealing pieces. Lastly, I finished off the look with my brown gradient aviator frames and a few gold rings. Personally, I feel like this outfit is my most accurate portrayal of transitional Fall dressing and I’m excited to see how my style evolves from here. Don’t forget to comment below your favorite piece and until next time!

Outfit Details & Links:

Coat- Blank NYC

Sheer Top- & Other Stories

Skirt- Zara

Boots- Asos(similar)

Sunglasses- Celine(similar)

In the vault

HOT CHOCOLATE!

September 10, 2020 No Comments

With the change in seasons also comes the change in nature’s colors, and being a Fall baby, I absolutely love the beauty and richness that appears during this time of year. It seems like as soon as the temperatures begin to drop and “sweater weather” is in full effect, there is a coziness that fills the air that I personally cannot resist. This longing for comfort and warmth presents itself through garments, signature beverages, and of course the ever-changing leaves. To be honest, I have never been a fan of brown clothing or sweatsuits for that matter. However, when I saw this co-ord online there was something about it that really drew me in and instantly, I knew I had to have it! As we should all know by now, contrast is my thing; so upon receiving these pieces, I knew this was an outfit that I would pair with heels. After trying a few different color combinations, I finally decided to stick with the neutral color palette and opted for my favorite tan mules. To compliment this further, I also incorporated my structured box bag featuring tortoise shell detailing. I absolutely loved how each item made its own statement and how the boldness of the ensemble really embodied what I think of when it comes to Autumnal dressing. To complete this fairly monochrome look, I figured gold jewelry would be the best fit as well as a pair of matching sunnies that truly tied everything together seamlessly. Whether with or without a jacket, this is definitely the type of look that will have me ready to take on the whatever the next few months have in store! Comment below your favorite item, if you’re a fan of jogger sets, and how you would style them. Until next time!

Outfit Details & Links:

Bodysuit- Zara

Joggers- Zara

Sunglasses- Mango

Heels- Mango

Bag- Free People

In the vault

HIKE ON!

November 21, 2019 1 Comment

I’ve really been getting a kick out of these casual looks lately. There’s something about the simplicity of an outfit that really has its benefits. Aside from being timeless, build-able, and extremely easily to style, what’s not to love?! Personally, when I’m styling a seemingly basic ensemble, it’s usually because I’m either unsure of what to wear on that particular day, or I just really want the quality and details of the garments to speak for themselves. It should be obvious that these hiking boots were definitely the star of the show! Over the last few years I’ve basically been averaging a new pair every Fall/Winter season, and as soon as I laid eyes on these beauties, I knew they were necessary for my collection. Aside from being insanely versatile due to the neutral color palette, I loved the chunky construction and pop of orange for added interest. From there, the rest of the outfit came together pretty effortlessly. Within the same week, I had also purchased this tan, mock-neck sweater which came in the most beautiful cool-toned shade I had ever seen. Initially, I was torn because I was considering pairing this with a skirt or dress of some sort, but in the end, I kept it basic with a pair of lightly distressed black jeans. There’s something that really brings back thoughts of my youth whenever I wear a pair of denim with slits along the knees; most likely because I used to attempt to recreate this trend during my DIY days (sorry Mom, lol). With my look nearly complete, I wanted to make sure to include a few more elements that would elevate the outfit overall while still capturing the essence of the season. I happened to stumble upon a quaint flower shop and purchased an interesting stalk of textured flowers that perfectly aligned with the hues in my outfit. For a final chic touch, I grabbed my cat-eye tortoise frames, some delicate gold jewelry, and was ready for a brisk stroll on a sunny Autumn day. As the temperatures continue to drop, I truly begin to appreciate and pay more attention to the textures and fabrics that I bring into my closet. Afterall, tis’ the season to be cozy!

Outfit Details & Links:

Sweater- & Other Stories

Jeans- William Rast

Boots- & Other Stories

Sunglasses- Asos

Jewelry- Burd Life

In ASM Shop

WINTER ESSENTIALS

November 18, 2019 No Comments

Though a lot of the same trends pop up year after year, I don’t think there’s any problem with freshening up on the seasonal pieces we love! That being said, I’ve rounded up a few of my personal Winter essentials with a bit of a twist. Faux fur coats don’t appear to be going anywhere, but why not switch things up with a bold shade or color-blocked version for added interest. Similarly, the snakeskin boot was definitely a favorite over the last couple years, but how about a croc-print for my daring fashionistas out there? In regards to more classic items, you can never go wrong with a neutral wool scarf and leather trousers for a timeless, chic look. Let me know what you think of my picks in the comments and don’t forget to click the images to shop directly. Until next time!

In the vault

CAMEL COOL

April 4, 2019 2 Comments

The weather is finally warming up, so I decided to test the waters and show off a bit of skin with this look. While doing some online research, I was instantly drawn to this camel colored suit. However, though the belted jacket did in fact come with a pair of matching trousers, I thought it would be cute to style it as a frock; considering it seemed long enough to do so and I had been meaning to give this “blazer dress” trend a try. Honestly, the only thing that was of slight concern to me was the color. As much as I loved how rich and neutral it was, I wasn’t sure if it would wash me out against my skin tone. Luckily that was not the case, and I was more than pleased with everything about this tailored garment. From the cut, to the wide belt, and tiny button details; this piece looked sophisticated and chic in every way. In efforts to tone things down and keep the look a little less formal, I decided to throw on my sneakers and white tube socks for a cool, effortless contrast. As this look was so warm toned, I thought that gold accessories would be the perfect option to really highlight those sandy hues. I had recently purchased the most gorgeous pair of transparent teardrop earrings with gold accent flakes and knew they would bring a beautiful elegance to the overall look. As a final touch, I stumbled across a wooden cross-body bag, that truly felt like the last piece of this fashion puzzle. Though quite reminiscent of a coconut, the spherical shape and texture brought an unexpected bohemian element I didn’t even know I needed! Bags made of natural materials such as wood and straw are always quite popular during the warmer seasons, so I was happy to incorporate one into my look. I loved how this ensemble pulled together so many different style genres and portrayed how they can all coexist and compliment each other in a seamless way. Comment below your favorite piece from this look and how/if you would’ve styled anything differently. Until next time!

Outfit Details & Links:

Blazer- Zara

Bag- Zara

Socks- Nike

Sneakers- Nike

Earrings- & Other Stories

In ASM Shop

CREAM BOOTS

January 27, 2019 No Comments

White boots have been a major trend for the past few seasons and while I am a fan, sometimes the starkness of the contrast can come off a bit harsh for certain looks. Luckily, there’s a new alternative that I’ve grown to love just as much! Cream or neutral toned footwear can serve the same purpose of brightening up any ensemble, but in a slightly more subtle way. I also feel like they are a lot more complimentary of other colors and versatile, whether you’re styling a monochromatic look or something more vibrant. Check out the options I’ve rounded up below and don’t forget to click the images to shop my picks! Also comment below if you’re a fan of this trend and how you would wear it. Until next time!

In the vault

SHORT SUIT

September 5, 2018 1 Comment

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

In the vault

NEUTRAL GROUND

June 26, 2018 1 Comment

After about a month’s break from my usual photo shoot routine due to recent collaborations, I’d say I was a bit nervous to get back into the swing of things. Per usual, I let my anxiety get the best of me and had a few doubts that I would be able to jump back into the groove and produce outfits that I loved. That said, the worrying was in vain and I was completely thrilled with the outcome! It’s ironic because I had been holding off on shooting at this specific location as well as styling this dress for a few months now. Luckily, it seemed like the “right” time finally presented itself and everything came together seamlessly. As I was working with a pretty neutral color palette, I knew I wanted to keep my accessories toned down without being overly “matchy,” yet still eye-catching. On a separate shopping trip however, I came across this brown cross-body with gold details; and it was then that I decided to coordinate with the metallic accents to complete the ensemble. I found a gorgeous pair of strappy heeled sandals that fully encompassed the dainty, feminine vibe I was going for. I was also able to make use of a pair of statement earrings from my own closet that pulled everything together with ease. I’ve mentioned in the past that I tend to go through phases where I collect a certain item of clothing or accessory with each season, and recently I couldn’t help but notice my sunglasses collection rapidly expanding before my eyes. Of course, with it being Summer, sunnies are pretty much a staple with every ensemble and this one was no exception! As soon as I saw this pair of tortoise cat-eye frames, I knew they’d make the perfect final touch for this look and I couldn’t have been more right (if I do say so myself, lol). I loved the way this look turned out and quickly regained my confidence with regard to this whole blogging thing. I think it’s important to take notice of our strengths and remember that while breaks may occur, talent will never waiver so long as the passion is there. Until next time!

Outfit Details & Links:

Dress- WAYF x Nordstrom

Bag- BP. x Nordstrom

Heels- Zara

Sunglasses- Zara

Earrings- Aldo

In the vault

AUTUMN FEELS

October 13, 2015 8 Comments

FINALLY!!! My favorite season has arrived in all of its glory! I’m not quite sure what it is about the fall that gets me so excited but it is a constant reoccurrence every year. From the leather jackets, to the chunky knits, and rich colors, I don’t see what not to love! On this particular day, the weather was absolutely perfect. It was just breezy enough to layer up and still walk around with a hot beverage without breaking a sweat. During the cooler months I tend to stick to more neutral colors and tones so breaking out staple pieces like my leather leggings and trench coat was a no-brainer. In my efforts to make this a “smart” look, I decided to put my layering skills to use by pairing my sleeveless long hemmed button up with an ombré sweatshirt, which matched perfectly with my grey metal-tip flats. With the final touches of a simple necklace and small cross-body bag, I was on my way. Whether it’s for the fashion or the pumpkin spice lattes, I can’t get enough of this time of year. Enjoy!

Outfit Details & Links:

Coat- Massimo Dutti

Sweatshirt- Zara

Button-up- Zara

Leggings- Zara

Flats- Zara

Necklace- Zara

In the vault

NEUTRAL VIBE

May 18, 2015 15 Comments

I don’t know what it is but there’s something about a shapeless, sack-like dress that I just love! Maybe it’s the fact that it looks so effortless, or the fun challenge it is to pair up your best accessories to complete the look. Whatever it is, theses types of dresses are always a staple for me during the warmer months. I love this one in particular because of the soft taupe coloring (that works well against any skin tone) and the breathable, yet well constructed material. When styling this look, I was debating on whether I should throw in a piece for a pop of color, but I’m honestly glad I didn’t. I think the look has a nice subtle chic vibe about it, especially with the use of the earth tones. Dresses like these are perfect for those casual days when you don’t want to make too much of a statement with your look but still want to draw in some attention with your accessories. I like that each accessory works well together while still maintaining it’s individual style and not overpowering the look. That’s the best part about fashion! You can take a western-style hat, pair it with some retro inspired heels, and a rustic tote and create a look all your own. The amount of creativity you can have with fashion is endless so take advantage and experiment! Figure hugging dresses are cool, but give one like this a try; the comfort alone makes it all worth it. 🙂

Outfit Details & Links:

Hat- Free People

Dress- Zara

Sandals- Zara

Necklace- Zara

Bag- Fossil