Everyday Romance

Truth be told, I'm not much of a casual dresser, no matter what. And even when I do (a relaxed game night, a theme park outing, a road trip, even), there's a strong sense of feminine pizazz mixed in; and most likely, I fiercely fought the urge to wear my tallest heels to punch up the glam factor somehow. I'm working on this. (Yes, some people struggle with getting dressed up; for me, it's a tremendous challenge to dress down.)

Imagine my delight when I saw this girly lace hoodie at Anthropologie today.

Casual elegance? I think this nails it. It will pair perfectly with jeans as I run out to the Farmer's Market or take in an outdoorsy sporting event (you know, in case I decide to do that one day.) Don't forget your pearls, pink lipstick and slightly tousled hair!

Fresh Florals

Happy New Year, loves! It's always at this time of the year that I anxiously await spring. I've never been a big fan of winter (aside from Christmas and my birthday), primarily because of the drab fashion, as I've always been more of a sun dress and sandals kind of girl. This fresh floral dress from Leifsdottir (one of my fave contemporary brands of all time) is a great transitioning piece. Pair with tights and boots now, and come sunnier weather, add nude heels and you're all set!





$228 at Anthropologie.

WishTree

I've accumulated quite a few fabulous pieces of jewelry over the years--so isn't it fitting that I have something equally fabulous to display (and organize) them on? I'm considering an upgrade from my current jewelry stand (from..college...) to this stately golden tree from Anthropologie.



Or better yet, I'll just add it to my wish list.
$98 here.

One-Piece Wonders

I haven't actually considered one-piece bathing suits in quite some time, but saw these gorgeous stunners online and was suddenly inspired! Sexy, sophisticated and super stylish, these feminine suits are anything but boring.

I also love the idea of throwing on a maxi skirt or cute pair of cuffed shorts for a chic cover-up that doubles as a sassy outfit.



(Zimmermann, if you're listening, I'm entirely obsessed with the Ebony Garden suit below, haha. wink, wink.)

Boy Meets Girl.

My favorite part about fall? Wearing boots! I'm pretty picky when it comes to my boots, and wouldn't dream of settling on a style that didn't totally thrill me.
I spotted these adorable leather boots on Anthropologie for $238 and love the rugged styling juxtaposed with the cutesy subtle bow on the side. Tres chic for casual autumn look, no?

Leather Love

It's rare that I ever actually start scouting out fall fashion when summer is still most definitely in full swing, but I spotted this amazing leather jacket today at Anthropologie and was suddenly longing for chilly autumn breezes. I tried it on, and realized immediately that I needed to have it. Its paper-thin leather was sumptuous and feminine, the dramatized collar added just enough flair while everything else was streamlined and subtle--no flashy zippers or heavy rock n' roll embellishments. It fit like a dream and that's hard to come by for me and jackets.



I didn't buy it today, because I always like to mull over big purchases and see if it'll go down at all, but I have a New York trip in the works (!!), and I think this is a must-have for my travels. Stay tuned.

$248 at Anthropologie.com.

Housewarming Gift...

...to myself!





I have literally had a pink bed of some variation for every year of my life, so the fact that I am ushering in a soft, rumply ruffled Tiffany blue duvet cover ($198 from Anthropologie) into my living space is kind of major. I think it channels soothing sophistication, but most importantly, this sleeper is startlingly different ( at least for me.)

Here's to new life changes and new, fabulous energy.

Cute Quilt

When it comes to bedding, I'm as picky as can be. When I truly, truly love something (and it's rare that I feel that way), I know it; which may explain why I've stuck with my English rose Cath Kidston duvet cover for years...seriously, years and years now. I know it's about time I trade it in for something fresher and more fun, but haven't quite found anything suitable just yet. Although, the Laelia quilt from Anthropologie is definitely peaking my interest:





Great colors to mix and match with, and just vibrant enough to perk up a simple bedroom, without being so erratic that it unnerves my calm before bedtime.

Earth Day at Anthro

Take a Bow

Anthropologie used to be my favorite store back in the day, but I haven't found anything there in about a year or so, so I've stopped checking out their site. My style has evolved (much more streamlined and subdued, far less whimsical), but I still love their aesthetics, home goods and presentation. Saw this perfectly ladylike frock online this morning and had to post. It's sweet, romantic and has a very European feel to it.



$188 at Anthropologie.

For the Bold...

If you're not shy when it comes to skirt trends (and adding volume to your figure), take a look at Amy Claire's Modern Gallica Skirt.



Plenty of bustles, folds, tucks and gathers to keep everyone's eyes on you. I'd keep the rest of the outfit as simple and clean as possible.

$198 at Anthropologie.com

Style Inspiration

Fall is in the air! Twirl about town in a girly tiered dress that transitions nicely between seasons, accessorize with an easy-to-wear ikat pattern tote and beaded necklace, and kick up your heels in a pair of lust-worthy tall leather boots.



*Long Turquoise and Brass Nacklace $485 at GivingTreeJewelry.com
*Buttercream Dress $99.95 at Anthropologie.com
*Aztec Tote $29.50 a Alloy.com

*Delilaa Boot $229.95 at SteveMadden.com

Dear Fabulous File...

I know this is kind of a nerdy question, but I love Becky's wardrobe on ABC's Miss Guided! She has the cutest professional wardrobe I think I've ever seen and she rocks the shirt dress like none other. Can you please feature some of her looks and tell me where i can find copy cats? I'm especially digging the shirt dress and blazer ensemble seen in the third episode.



-Annie

Dear Annie,
I did some style sleuthing on this new (really cute and quirky!) sitcom, and have some shopping solutions for you:



Blazer, OldNavy.com, $34.50

Braided skinny belt, Forever21.com, $7.80



Swiss-dot shirt dress, Delias.com, $44.50