Back at it! A Casual Western Look

I am so happy to be blogging again! I needed that break in May, especially since I went to Belize and Santa Barbara last month. One thing I have really been missing is writing. It has been amazing running into old friends and them asking me when I'm going to start blogging again, the day is today, my friends! Thank you all for your support on my 59 Day Challenge. It was really fun but really difficult. Working with my stylist, Minh Le, and giving myself that challenge has really taught me a lot about being creative with the clothing I have. Though I may not have the top designer's clothes, a huge budget or the perfect body, I really like dressing well. I am dedicating this blog to all of the style-loving-people with my same issues or other issues that don't allow them to buy whatever they want from Saks! 

Though I will mainly be showcasing my outfits, I also will be including pictures of my friend's outfits, if they are willing. Fashion is to be shared. As we experiment with our own wardrobes and admire the creativity of others, we make the world a more beautiful place. Enough soap-boxing, time for pictures!

Tools, everyone needs decent tools whether building a table or putting on makeup. I love these synthetic Sephora brushes. I bought them about 9 years ago and they still feel baby smooth. Make sure to wash your brushes regularly, I use Sephora's brush cleaner. Shimmery, dewy skin is always my goal so mineral powder foundation is my passion, along with bronzer to give my face definition. This look is easy to do since I also used the bonzer for my eyeshadow.

I love grabbing my cowboy boots to wear with any outfit, they just make it more fun! Adding accessories, like this statement cuff from Minh Le, keep things polished and feminine. And of course, don't forget your skinny jeans!

59 Days of Style Day 39, 40 & 41: Personalizing Outfits

It is unbelievable that today is day 41 of my 59 day journey to 1. not buy any new clothes 2. not wear the same outfit twice. At this point, I assumed it would become more difficult for me to reach in my closet and pull out something new. Being bored and discouraged were part of the way I used to get dressed. Having Minh Le work with me to do a complete wardrobe overhaul changed the way I see my closet and myself. Today I saw Minh for the first time since the endeavor, about 6 weeks ago. When I saw her new asymmetrical hair do, I knew I wanted one too. After getting my hair done I realized that that is exactly what she does- inspires you with her style then helps you translate it into a personal look. If anyone is interested in a free consultation with her, give her a call 760-672-1215 (she told me I could post her phone number), she is wonderful to work with. I encourage anyone who has been inspired by my blog to take the next step and call Minh. Alright, now on with the outfits!

 My Mom bought this white cardigan (Day 26) at T.J. Max forever ago. I keep almost getting rid of it, who knows why, but it keeps popping its way into my outfits! This is my alternative to jeans and a T-shirt; jeans, a tank top and a crop cardigan.

Adding unique, vintage jewelry to a casual outfit is my way to personalize my look. Here are a pair of turquoise earrings my Grandma tossed my way in one of her famous "things I don't want anymore" bags.

When I was looking for these earrings, I came across this ring my Grandma had also given me. It is a hand-made brass whale ring. I don't know what it is about animal rings, but they make me happy!

Not sure this outfit was the best idea. I love the flower print silk top by sanctuary but it was battling it out with my skirt and not staying long. Not wanting to try another outfit by the end of the day, I put my chain cardigan (Day 9, Day 14 Day 15) over.

Today!

Going to see Minh, I wanted to wear something cute. Visiting Carlsbad from Temecula, I wanted to have layer options. Here I have on my black twill pants from Ann Taylor (Day 30), sundress from Anthropologie (Day 14 Day 26) and Forever 21 cardigan (Day 20 Day 38) with my wonderful Steve Madden nude flats. Side note, the nude flats were the first item that Minh had me buy. I was skeptical to have such a simple shoe but they are so wonderful!

 

59 Days of Style Day 11: Erin Go Bragh!

Before Picture 

Happy St. Patrick’s Day! It is day 11 of my not wearing the same outfit twice and not buying new clothes journey. The truth is I almost slipped into old habits this morning. With not much time to get ready for work and laziness setting in I was about to grab my routine cardigan and jeans look, as demonstrated by my before picture above. 

Running out of my initial cute outfit ideas, I fought the urges and threw on this black cardigan I wore on with my Rockin it at Work outfit, paired with a green cami for St. Patrick’s Day and I’m good to go. These jeans were too short and a little on the loose side. My wonderful stylist, Minh Le, suggested I make these into rolled up capris. This is easy to do, simply cut off some of the excess at the bottom of the pant and roll twice. If they are still too long, cut a little more. Playing with color will also help the mood, that’s why I opted for these coral satin flats. Reminder- always have your toenails looking nice when you are wearing peep toe shoes or sandals.