Petite Fashion Challenge #2: Wear It Now, Wear It Later

The challenge:

In honor of the fast approaching cool, fall weather, what better way to get ready than to find ways to make your wardrobe do double duty. Pick at least one item in your closet (not jeans, that’s too easy!), and create two outfits, one for spring/summer, and one for fall/winter.

Oh boy. I get so excited about these challenges, but when push comes to shove, I err on the side of neutrals.

Most of my clothes do double duty already so I don’t have many strictly seasonal clothes, not that LA seasons are very dynamic. Still, I wanted to give it a try and show how my clothes can work for warmer and cooler weather.

For this challenge, I picked a cream-colored silk blouse.

I had to break my shopping ban to pick up this top from the Alexa Chung collection for Madewell. It was too pretty to pass up and I’ve been dreaming of a great silk blouse for the longest time. Even though this is a relatively easy staple item, I figured I would dress it up in a way that is a play on menswear.

Summer Outfit – Wear Now

Outfit Details: Alexa Chung for Madewell silk blouse – XS, Banana Republic shorts – 4, American Eagle belt, DIY necklace (friend’s gift), Steve Madden Tuxxedo oxford flats

The color of the blouse doesn’t exactly scream summer, but the billowy top is great for warmer days. Paired with some high-waisted shorts, it adds that vintage kick that I want.

I don’t usually wear short shorts unless it’s over 90 degrees like it is currently. Instead, I usually wear mom shorts…literally. It’s kind of crazy how ridiculous size inflation has become since these shorts from Banana Republic are size 4 and I can barely fit into the 00 now.

The oxford flats adds that menswear inspired element that makes the look very contemporary.

Autumn Outfit – Wear Later

Outfit Details: Alexa Chung for Madewell silk blouse – XS, Madewell skinny jeans – 24, Bitten by SJP vest – S, Free People watch pendant, Corso Como boots

As a transitional outfit into Fall, I switched out the shorts for pants and donned on my riding boots. For additional warmth, I added a corduroy vest for texture. Equestrian no?

Outfit Details: Alexa Chung for Madewell silk blouse – XS, Bitten by SJP vest – S, Banana Republic Martin plaid trousers – 0P, Zara faux suede blazer-XS,  Dolce & Gabbana pumps

In Autumn, layering is a common occurrence, so adding a blazer paired with the vest gives it a strong masculine edge. But the overall look is clearly feminine and it’s a great work outfit too.

Simple, easy, and stylish.

What do you think?

The Winding Road

I always enjoy getting away from the city.

Even if it’s just a scenic drive through the Angeles National Forest, I love sightseeing. The worries of so many yesterdays melt away as I absorb the beauty of my surroundings.

Life is full of twists and turns and the path to achieving your dreams isn’t always straight. Sometimes, you have to take the longer way, a way that seems to veer away from your intended goal. But having a great set of friends makes things so much better.

As for the changing seasons, I’m starting to feel it. The sun goes down earlier, the wind chill is picking up, and people are pulling out sweaters, scarves, and boots.

LA seasons aren’t as dynamic as other places, but it doesn’t mean we can’t enjoy cold weather gear. I can’t wait to bust out the heavier coats and jackets as I fully intend to take advantage of the crisp autumn air.

Right now, I’m obsessed with biker boots.

I got a cheap pair from Forever 21 and I’ve been trying to wear them as much as possible. Some may say it hits at an awkward length and it can make you look shorter, but I don’t care. To me, it’s awesome.

Outfit Details: Express pullover sweater- XS, Madewell jeans – 24, Free People watch pendant, random scarf, Forever 21 boots

An Edgy Sailor…Maybe?

I already professed my love of nautical gear recently, but how about mixing styles?

Downtown chic meets French sailor.

Outfit Details: Madewell Breton tunic XS, Pencey moto vest XS, Pacsun capris 00, Forever 21 fish pendant, Corso Como boots

I was absolutely aching for the Pencey moto vest in an old post and I’m glad I make the purchase because the (silk) material makes it more interesting than a leather one. Plus, I didn’t find any biker jackets, denim vests, and other moto paraphernalia that accentuated my figure in a positive way. Most were boxy, loose, and chunky even if I somehow managed to find the right size.

If you haven’t already noticed, I’m making an effort to add some detail shots in conjunction with the outfit pictures. At times, it’s difficult to see the details and it kind of helps with a closer eye. Plus, I’m figuring out how to capture a certain moodiness that makes the photo more “powerful” but I’m not quite sure if I’m there yet.

It’s another month closer to spring and I’m preparing for beach season with an increase in workouts. I’m be slowing down the spending in all areas for March and I’m a bit shopped out. There hasn’t been much to catch my eye as of late, which is good for my wallet and it gives me more opportunity to reconnect with my closet and find new outfits that I hadn’t thought of before.

Roaming the City

Every city has its small, quaint pockets of civility. My latest escapade takes me down Abbot Kinney Blvd.

It’s artsy, it’s hipster, it’s everything mashed together. Close to the beach, but away from the hordes of tourists, this stretch of pavement holds quite valuable history, crazy boutiques, and local cafes.

I must stop by more often because it’s unique and there’s so much to see. It’s like vintage Melrose Blvd that’s been cleaned up, gentrified, and part of the whole “health obsessed” side of California.

Outfit Details: Madewell tee XS and jeggings S, Forever 21 accessories, Corso Como boots

Petite Tips

Knee-length boots can be worn by petites and it doesn’t always make you look shorter. Pair it a dark wash jean or leggings for an elongated leg. I prefer simple boot styles because it’s easier to keep to a sleek silhouette.

*Btw, did you catch the Golden Globes? My fave dresses were from Emily Blunt, Sandra Bullock (surprisingly) and Marion Cotilliard (she do no wrong!)

The Year of Shoes

This year, I definitely splurged on my fair share of shoes. I found a new love…boots! I took my time looking for the perfect pairs to fit my lifestyle and I’m pretty proud. I got four snazzy pairs of tall boots and two pairs of booties…it’s perfection!

And I went a vintage boutique on Melrose to snag up two pairs of designer heels at 90% off…which still amounted to about $100 a pair…one in brand new, never worn condition, and one slightly worn. But they were a steal and they’re absolutely lovely! Those two were worth the hour wait in line to get these pairs because otherwise I wouldn’t ever be able to afford such luxurious shoes!

For the next five years, I’m thinking that my shoe collection will primarily stay at a standstill because I know that I need to make the most of my purchases this year and I’m pretty satisfied with my current set. Just a couple more to round it out…and I’m good…for a while.

In the future, I’m looking for a couple random items to round out my collection: white keds, black heels, black leather boots, gladiator sandals, and one crazy platform heel.

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