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?

A New Year, Some Old Clothes

I’m ringing in the new year with a fresh look on vintage pieces.

During this holiday season, I’ve become tired of the same old styles pumped out by the retail industry. There’s a lot of nice things, but at the same time…everything feels so dreary. I need to inject some “one-of-a-kind” pieces from the vintage warehouses to satiate this sartorial hunger.

And who else to provide the inspiration but Zooey Deschanel.

I love her eclectic, retro tastes because it matches her cheery, quirky personality. Even in this short video, she gets to wear a “Breakfast at Tiffany’s” inspired wardrobe mixed with some hipster flair.

Temporarily, I’m over winter and I want spring to start! So, it’s time for me to research some petite vintage dresses. Whether it’s thrift stores, consignment boutiques, or flea markets, I’m scouting for something different. Perhaps this little side project will uncover an untapped outlet by the time spring actually rolls by.

Happy Halloween!

I know, everyone’s been talking about Halloween for the whole week. Especially here where there’s the WeHo Halloween Parade and all sorts of craziness. I hope you’re enjoying the dressing up, the candy, the partying, and all that fun stuff!

Here’s a quick look at my costume:

I’ve been in a vintage mood these days, anything from the 1920’s-1950’s is really catching my attention. There’s a sense of poise, grace, and ease in the fashion of those eras….it’s like Old Hollywood glamour. Instead of the overt sexuality that litters the LA scene like snow on a winter’s day, it’s kind of nice to have options that’s more conservative and can be sensual at the same time.

I wanna be like those vintage gals from the blogosphere…Ranna, Keiko Lynn, and Sally Jane.  They’re inspirational with their styles, shops, and photos!