Sporty Spice

Hi Islers!

Today was one of those lazy Saturdays. I relaxed in bed most of the day with Netflix and later took my mom out for her birthday...she wanted P.F. Chang's and boy was it spicy!

I wanted to wear something that reflected the ease of the relaxed day but wasn't bummy...casual cute! I recently picked up this sweater dress from J. Crew and I've been looking forward to the day I could sport this sweet little number. We're in the dog days of summer so it's still hot, but the material isn't too heavy and I knew we'd be indoors...I'm always freezing. Gray is my favorite color so this dress is already a favorite of mine. One thing I hate about sweater dresses is the cling! Simply because of the nature of the material, sometimes you can find yourself tugging and pulling, which leaves those oh-so-annoying pucker marks in the fabric. No so with this dress, it's very forgiving. I kept the sporty theme going with my brand new, first ever, pair of Chucks! *covers faces with hands* I mean nothing goes better with sweatshirts than a crispy white pair of sneakers? I added minimal accessories to complete the look and headed out for some delicious Chinese food. Hope you guys had a great relaxing Saturday too!

Ciao for now!

Dress: J. Crew; Sneakers; Converse; Watch: Marc by Marc Jacobs

Music and Soul Food

This weekend was one filled with laughs, friends, church, ice cream and chill mode. Saturday was especially cool because I got to hang out with my boyfriend (he's a bassist) at his gig. Music and soul food are probably one of my favorite things to do...especially with him!

I felt my recent purchase of this slouchy, cropped knit sweater was PERFECT for the venue (Delta's Restaurant) and event. It's super comfy and breathable so I was happy I could get away with it in the summer (although it was kinda cool in Jersey this weekend). The ONLY negative to this sweater is that the threads got caught on absolutely EVERYTHING and I found myself pulling, stretching and tugging little fibers back into place all night :-/ The style was so cute I didn't really pay attention to the material when I bought it; and although it wasn't cheaply made the nature of the material doesn't lend itself to carefree wear. Ahhh the concessions we make for fashion! This sweater would work on sooo many body types. I simply adjusted the tie in the back so it would fall off the shoulder and reveal a little midriff, but it can be worn to cover the tummy as well...the loose fitting shape is very forgiving (especially on those yummy nights out :-]) I was also glad for the tip in weather because I could wear my FAVORITE cords...even though they were a backup because for some reason I couldn't find a specific pair of jeans (don't you hate that?). One arm pushed up to showcase my favorite stack of arm-candy. Funky tribal print wedges and my miniature Aldo bag (isn't it cute?!) provide pops of color.

Sweater: DeJanero (NYC), Cords: Joe Fresh, Wedges: Strawberry (NYC), Necklace & Earrings: H&M, Cuff: Thrifted, Mini Satchel: Aldo (couldn't seem to find online, but similar here)

Pretty Pastels

Skater Skirt: H&M; Cardigan: Forever21; Pumps: Anne Klein (thrifted); Handkerchief: Thrifted; Necklace & Bracelet: Thrifted 

Spring has sprung and I can't wait to dig out my Spring/Summer gems for the season :-) I decided to style this mint green (pics showing a little bluer) skater skirt that I recently purchased from H&M with a semi-sheer canary yellow cardigan and blush pumps. Believe it or not I've been seeing these colors in my mind for a while now. The combination may seem odd but it works because the colors are all pastels in the same tone (Someday I'll get around to writing that post on the difference between color's value and chroma). I am absolutely OBSESSED with mint green and I can't wait to incorporate more of this color into my wardrobe.

What I love about this outfit is that the skater skirt is so flattering on so many body types, I feel every woman should have a few of this easy staple piece. Heels instantly slim your legs and make you stand taller. The cardigan is very soft and semi-sheer for a light touch. How sweet is this blush handkerchief I found at a vintage shop (Second Time Around-Madison, NJ)?? The store owner told me the matching necklace and bracelet set are also from the 1920s and threw in the handkerchief for free! Oh how I LOVE a bargain! 8-D I feel so pretty and feminine in this outfit...like...a chocolate Easter egg haaaa and with Easter just a few weeks away I'm perfect. 

How do you plan to welcome Spring 2014?

"There is a subtle way to stand out. Take risks and play with your imagination."

Ciao for now!
Xoxo--Maya

Ootd: Tried and True

Happy Monday!

It's snowy day in Jersey today brrrr so I went comfy with my FAV cords from Joe Fresh (should've bought them in every color!). I decided to keep my top classic with a black and white checked vest, which I've mentioned in previous posts as having "borrowing" from my dad lol. I paired the look with a flowy sheer blouse to add a feminine touch (see my menswear post). Threw on my "tried and true" wedges and completed the look with blush and rose gold accessories. 

I love those tried and true stylish pieces you can just throw on without having to think. All in all a comfy style day. 

Ciao for now!

Maya

Vest: My Dad's, Shirt: DeJanero (NYC), Cords: Joe Fresh, Wedges: Bakers, Necklace, Watch and Cuff: JewelMint, Hoops: H&M

Cozy AND Cute

Baby it's cold outside!! Time for gloves scarfs and tights. It can be a challenge to dress appropriately during the winter months and still be stylish, but just keep a few things in mind while putting your looks together and you'll stay cozy AND cute:

 

1. Texture: the fall/winter months are perfect for mixing textures. When else can you get away with combining wool, cashmere, leather and fur? Create visual interest by mixing it up!

 

2. Layer up: layer a collared button down under a cardigan and throw a blazer on top; put on a long sleeved v-neck and wear your sheaths all year long.

3. Outerwear extension: coats, capes and jackets are the first, and sometimes only, thing people see. Don't just throw on any old thing, consider what you put on over your outfit, as an extension of your outfit. Don't be afraid to accessorize your outerwear too! Pin a blingy broach on the lapel or throw a belt on...yes a belt!

4. Give 'Em the Boot: boots are essential to any fall/winter wardrobe. There are many varieties to choose from...booties, knee boots, over-the-knee boots, ankle boots, uggs. 

Of course go for function and practicality also...don't be COLD tryna be CUTE lol With these few tips in mind you can be COZY and CUTE!

Sweater: H&M, Skirt: Forever21, Studs: H&M, Booties: Bakers (correction in previous posts), Necklace: H&M