Real Talk: Sevenly.org

Hey there readers! So, I have something pretty cool to tell y'all– 

First off, I caught news of this via Steph of @CityandMakeup's latest video (watch that here), and I figured why not be one more voice out there that educates about this really great company.

What am I talking about? Sevenly.org. They're a company that basically generates awareness for all types of causes from relief efforts, to disease education, to social awareness campaigns via awesome tshirt designs which they sell to generate funding for said causes and charities. You can read more in-depth on their mission and FAQ on their website, and for more details on how the sales cycles work definitely tune in to Steph's video that I linked to above.

The angle I'm stressing is: it's $22 for a tshirt. Think about how many things we're willing to spend $20+ on: makeup, a restaurant meal, clothes, etc. By tossing $22 to sevenly.org, you not only get a cool graphic tee but you're also contributing funding and advertising for a cause or campaign.

This week's tee reads, "Girls are not for sale"– generating awareness for gems-girls.org, an organization lobbying to end sex exploitation and trafficking.

Follow Sevenly on Twitter at @sevenly!

Haul: October buys

Considering all my purchases in October are favs, I figure why not just title this October Haul. Pictured above are the following:

1. Design Sponge at Home book by Grace Bonney, well-known home decor blogger and now author! Book available at most giftstores or bookstores, and I've seen it at several Anthropologie's.
2. Neutrogena Pink Grapefruit Foaming Scrub
3. Revlon Just Bitten Stain and Balm in Gothic
4. Revlon Grow Luscious Mascara in Blackest Black
5. Maybelline Instant Age Rewind Eraser: Dark Circles Treatment Concealer
6. Maybelline Line Stiletto Liquid Eyeliner in Blackest Black
7. ULTA Precision Liquid Eyeliner in Plum
8. Beauty Blender (*Sephora F&F Sale purchase!)
9. EOS Smooth Sphere in Sweet Mint
10. Revlon Quick Dry Base Coat (polish), 955
11. Sinful Colors polish in Happy Ending 946
12. Archipelago candle in Agave (*I got this at a boutique in Evanston, but they're available online.)

Follow:

@designsponge

@ULTA_Beauty

@beautyblender

@Sephora

@eosproducts

@ArchipelagoUSA

Because I Feel Like It

I don't care who you are– everyone gets a case of the Monday's where all you wanna throw on are your moccasins and a cardi! Today's outfit du jour complies with just that– plus a relaxed hairstyle inspired by the lovely Minka Kelly to boot.

The Breakdown:

Top: H&M Tank in White/Striped, $5.95

Top: JCrew Factory Vintage Zebra Striped Cardigan in Vivid Aqua, $64.50 (*Sale)

Necklace: Brevity Hexagonal Necklace in Stainless Steel, $60

Earrings: H&M 9-Pack Earrings, $5.95 (*Light aqua pair shown)

Pants: PacSun Bullhead Black 55 Denim Legging in Rinsed Indigo, $39.50 (*Or, 2 for $59)

Shoes: DSW Mix No. 6 Fringe Moccasin in Grey, $34.95

Total Cost of this Outfit: $210.85

Now, $200+ is a bit steep for something as casual and relaxed as this...

How to Save on this Look:

• While the pants shown are my go-to denim legging of choice, any dark wash or indigo denim from your own closet will do.
• Yes, it's only $5.95 but guess what!– that can buy your lunch or at least a coffee! Omit the earrings and go with a simple silver stud or hoop. And while we're counting pennies, swap the striped tank for a solid white, grey or black one of your own!
• Though the moccasins shown above are sure to keep your toes toasty, if you already own a pair (even if they're the traditional brown color) or a flat that would match– go with that!

Wammy! You just saved yourself $85+!!

*You guys know me, and I constantly promote the purchasing of quality and unique jewelry– especially when supporting an artist! Hop around on Brevity– artist Anna Corpron of New York, NY designs quite a few different styles that are sure to suit a variety of tastes!

Nail Polish Re-Paint

Polish: Nicole by OPI in Light a Candle

Tonights nail polish re-paint was inspired by Ryan's 'Colorstrology' color, Violet Ice. I first saw this book while visiting my dear friend, Tess in Boston this past Spring; when we'd visited the Boston Museum of Fine Arts giftshop. It's basically a gag-gift book that has a PANTONE color assigned to every birth date, and it goes on to describe personality traits, etc. which I might add are eerily accurate, at least for the people we had looked up.

Ryan's bday is June 7th, and his (oh so manly) color is Violet Ice. His page in the book says:

"VIOLET ICE

SEDUCTIVE

MUSICAL

INSPIRING

If you were born on this day: People look to you for inspiration. You are one of a kind and are not afraid to be different. Your talent comes from a deep and powerful place. You were born to communicate, so it is important that you are conscious of what you say and do. You have an innate talent for building your dreams and can do well financially.

How this color benefits you:
Your personal color resonates with spirituality. Wearing, meditating or surrounding yourself with Violet Ice helps you maintain balance as you share your life with others."

Sidenote: My friend Tess is actually one of the coolest people ever, and if you're ever lookin' for something fresh to add to your iTunes playlist– give her a follow on Twitter, or her kickin' blog: tesszechuan.com.

Victoria's Secret Look for the Holidays

If you're anything like me, pretty much the second Halloween weekend is over I'm already thinking about Christmas. (They're only 53 days apart you know!) Seriously though, I just purchased Ryan and I's Holiday cards yesterday. Yikes. Haha!

Anywho, I received my Victoria's Secret "We ♥ Winter" catalog in the mail the other day and finally had some time to flip through it this morning with my coffee. Not too far in (on page 7), Erin Heatherton is pictured in a button-up and this really pretty sequin mini. And just then, a light bulb went off– "Carly Cristman!!", I thought. To explain my wild train of thought: when I saw the skirt, I immediately thought of the shorts from Carly's Style Diary, 8-18-11.

Routing back to the skirt– I thought it would make a lovely contribution to an outfit for the Holidays… and, so to not copy Carly's approach of pairing a neutral with the embellished bottoms (which is certainly tasteful and classy), why not develop a different look? Maybe one that's inspired by vintage sapphire and diamond jewelry… Without further adieu, the outfit:

Earrings: Macy's City by City Earrings in Champagne Cubic Zirconia Square Drop, $20
Top: LOFT Dolman Sleeve Cowl Neck Sweater in Vintage Blue, $49.50 (*Online exclusive)

Skirt: Victoria's Secret Sequin Mini-Skirt in Champagne, $98

Legwear: TopShop Seam Back Tights in Nude, $14

Shoes: TopShop Strut Metal Heel Platform in Navy Blue, $130
(Or, compliment the black seam tights with a more cost-effective shoe like these: ALDO Capecoral Pump in Black Patent, $80.)

Total Cost of this Outfit: $311.50 (Or, $261.50 with the less expensive shoe).

Styling notes

I figured so long as we were building this look from the VS skirt, we might as well stay in-theme and take inspiration from Rosie Huntington-Whiteley's old Hollywood side-swept waves. To finish the look, a jewel-toned eye by Tiffany D would be gorg! *Maybe swap the teal waterline for a champagne or gold liner? (For the tutorial, visit her vlog.) 

What do you think? Holiday approved?

I've Got The Blues

Out of any OOTD I’ve posted thus far on this blog, this one is probably the one that’s the most ‘me’. That’s not to say my other posts don’t reflect my tastes and personal style, because they certainly do. This outfit in particular though, I don’t know, it just makes me insta-happy :) I’m a frequent sporter of cobalt blue, but hardly ever teal to be honest and the rich color in this ensamble intrigues me. The curvy shapes in the skirt and the peekaboo back of the top take this look over the top, oozing of femme. Moving on to styling: the reason I chose the casual ballerina bun hairstyle (inspired by Katie Holmes) is because the back detailing of the top deserves to be shown off, therefore an updo of some kind (I think) is appropriate.

*As I’ve said before, I’m not a makeup expert; thus why I don’t toss beauty advice out there a whole lot. However, I think this look: subtle blue smokey eye by Tiffany D would pair very nicely with this outfit; should you be so bold as to test it out. [Note: You can follow Tiffany on Twitter at @TiffanyLD!]

The Breakdown:

Top: UO Sparkle & Fade Gigi Blouse in Black, $69.00

Necklace: Anthropologie Atributes Necklace in Blue, $48.00

Skirt: ModCloth Sashay Away Skirt, $64.99

Legwear: UO Opaque Tights in Teal, $12.00

Shoes: Bakers Nora Pump in Black Suede, $49.99 (sale)

Total Cost of this Outfit: $243.98

How to Save on this Look:

• An easy cash-save is to complete this look with your own pair of black shoes. A black flat, oxford shoe or pump are all acceptable. *I’d stray from a boot for this look, as the teal tights are a feature.
• While I think the black top shown here is unique and lovely, it could be swapped for a femme black jersey top like this one from H&M, $17.95 — key factor to keep in mind is a neckline that’s going to showcase the stone necklace.

By opting for shoes from your own closet and a less expensive top, you can cut the total cost of this outfit in half and still accomplish a totally fab look :)

Sound the Alarm!

*Warning!: This outfit is a.) not for the meek, and b.) definitely a splurge.  Now, I know– red pants aren’t for everyone. Understandable. They most definitely make a statement! If they’re not really your thing, keep reading– I have a couple of solutions for you. Moving on from the pant: I’m obsessed with the sequin top paired with a denim looking button-up look!! It’s fun, and it’s a cool updated twist on a classic. Sparkle and flame need a cool down, so pair with a nude shoe and an easy going loose curl (pictured: Olivia Palermo) and a nude/pink lip. (*My fav lip product: MAC Lipglass in Underage, $14.50). Overall this ensamble commands attention and I would highly reco for any fashion fearless lady :)

The Breakdown:
Earrings: H&M 9-Pack Earrings, $5.95 (*bronze-ish pair shown)
Top: TopShop Sequin Tee in Bronze, $90.00
Top: JCrew Selvedge Chambray Popover in Dark Blue Wash, $98.00
Pants: Express Ultimate Double Weave Columnist Pant in Mars Red, $79.90
Shoes: (Bakers) Chinese Laundry Hotness Pump in Light Tan, $49.99

Total Cost of this Outfit: $323.84 (*Not including cost of lip product).

Kinda steep, but!– I did warn you… Still,

How To Save On This Outfit: 

As promised, a few solutions for the anti-red personality: This look could easily be chic and flirty with a khaki trouser or dark skinny denim.

• If opting for the denim route, cuff the bottoms 2-3” to expose the lighter blue, it adds dimension. Also go for a flat or pump that exhibits a pop of color– maybe bring back the red on your feet! 
• As for the khaki option, hint: the columnist pant also comes in khaki, but surely swap-in your own khaki pant if you own them already. As for a shoe to pair with khaki, I like this flat: Bakers Glitz Flat in Bronze, $29.99. Otherwise a pop of color in footwear would be appropriate here too.

By using pants and shoes from your own closet, you’re able to save $129.89– thus chopping down the total cost of this outfit to $193.95! No, still not inexpensive but again, I warned you this was a splurge statement ensamble.

I say go for it! Be fearless.

You're Turning Violet, Violet!

Today’s look is inspired by today’s weather in Chicago – a high of 70º!! In late-October, that’s almost unheard of in the Midwest. So, I figure why not celebrate with a lively color like this rich magenta by giving it an Autumn twist and pairing it with a flirty curly side pony (inspired by Keri Russell). I love this look because when I look at it, I can’t help but smile… and I think that’s a lovely outward affect to present. Without further adieu…

The Breakdown:

Top: Anthropologie Dotty Tie Blouse in Dark Grey, $88.00

Earrings: Francesca’s Collections Brilliant Beads Hoops, $16.00

Belt: BDG Skinny Braided Leather Belt in Gold, $20.00

Skirt: JCrew City Mini in Bright Dahlia, $85.00 

Legwear: UO Scale Tight in Khaki, $14.00

Shoes: Nine West Glowing pump in Purple Suede, $89.00

Total Cost of this Outfit: $312.00

How to Save on this Look:

• Swap the gold belt out for a cognac-brown belt in a similar style.
• Swap out the colorful beaded earrings for a gold pair of your own. I suggest something bigger/longer– either a hoop or dangler.
• Swap the fuchsia pump out for cognac-brown leather pump. (*brown pump with brown belt.)
• If opting for a no-tights look, go bare with a nude patent pump.

By taking advantage of the accessories you already own, you can save up to $140 off this look– reducing your spending to $175 for two pieces that will surely be in your wardrobe for years to come. Or, you could also go the route of the complete opposite of what I’ve just said and cash-in on the accessories to pair with neutral items you may already own. Nothing updates your closet like fresh accessories, and in-truth it’s just as cost-effective. In either scenario, you’re sure to be fabulous :)

Peggy Olsen Got A Makeover

My favorite show at the moment is Mad Men. So, this look has a bit of a 60s vibe– emulating the fashions from the show. A blast from the past answered by one of the more popular Fashion Week trends– red suede pumps and a red lip. I often find that when the outfit is the attention-getter, pulled-back hairstyles look best– thus I've attached this Adele-inspired messy updo. Completing the look with a subtle winged liner would certainly be charming. This outfit is definitely flirty in its palette of pattern and textures, and welcomes the brisk turn of the season with a smile.

The Breakdown:

Dress: Fossil Madeline Dress in Blue, $78

Jacket: JCrew Schoolboy Blazer (Velvet) in Black, $168

Legwear: UO Pointelle Lightweight Sweater Tights in Black, $14

Shoes: Bakers Alecia Dress Pumps in Red, $79.99

Total Cost of this Outfit: $339.99

Eeeh... While this look has many components, I'm hardly convinced any one outfit should cost roughly $350.

How to Save on this Look:

The two heavy-hitters to the wallet in this scenario are both the blazer and the red pump. However, they're also two items that in my opinion pull the look together. So, here's a few less-pricey options:

• LOFT Pima Cotton 3/4 Sleeve Cardigan in Black, $34.99 (sale) –– A simple black cardigan that’s more cropped and less tunic in length would pair well with the empire waist of the dress. Downside?– it’s not as warm as a blazer, so you’d have to bring a jacket.
• UO Sparkle & Fade Cropped Ruched Sleeve Blazer in Black, $79 –– To appeal to those who would prefer a blazer over a cardigan, chew on this: No, it’s not velvet but it is cropped and it does button at the waist creating the same femme lines as the JCrew blazer, for far less I might add! (Almost $90 savings!)
• UO Kimchi Blue Suede Pointy Kitten Heel in Red, $49 — A little less aggressive than a pump, but equally as cute. This shoe definitely brings out the vintage-inspired quality of the dress more to the forefront. (Not to mention they’re $30 less expensive!)

By going the route of the UO blazer and red heel, you’re bringing the cost down to $220! I like saving $120 too!!

Gold Member

As the leaves have all pretty much turned their colors and fallen to the ground– they're the final punches of color this area will see for quite a while. In leu of celebrating the Autumn hues we all know and love, I present this change-of-the-season appropriate and flirty combo.

The Breakdown:

Top: LOFT Button Cuff 3/4 Sleeve Sweater in Oatmeal, $39.99

Jacket: TopShop Mustard Daisy Print Pyjama Style Jacket, $110

Necklace: Anthropologie Citrus Twist Necklace in Assorted, $38

Pants: Zara Trousers with Piping on Pocket in Black, $49.90

Shoes: Francesca's Collections Dancing on Air Flat in Black, $28

Total Cost of this Outfit: $265.89

As this look is composed of mostly basics, of course I have savings tips!

How to Save on this Look:

• Do without the black flats purchase and sport a low-profile black shoe of your own.
• If you own a pair of black pants already– wear those! Or perhaps you have a pair of black leggings(?)– those would work just as fine as well.

To clarify: What I mean by 'leggings' is skinny-fit black pants with spandex in them, not skinny-fit cotton yoga pants! Leave those for weekends. I recommend these, if you're looking for a quality legging: Zara Ponte Di Roma Trousers in Black, $49.90. And if you think a black legging is something you'll get more wear out of vs. a tailored black trouser– opt for an expense that's going to suit you/your lifestyle.

By swapping in your own shoes and pants, this look comes down in cost to $187.99. No, still not "cheap", but then again nothing about this look or the items in it are cheap; in the sense that they're poor quality and therefore not worth your pennies. I stress this point a lot, and I'll say it again: don't be afraid to spend a higher dollar for a quality neutral, because you won't feel compelled to replace it in a year. Things like blazers, jackets, shoes and accessories can be reoccurring purchases to freshen your look. 

Fab Find: The Beauty Blender

So, I don’t talk a ton about makeup on here because quite frankly (confession:) I’m 25 and am just learning the proper ways to use it. That’s not to say I’ve been terrible with makeup since my teens or anything like that, it’s just I’m learning more about quality products and application best practices now… which is kinda cool… better now than never I guess!

Anyway, per my last post re: Sephora’s Friends & Family Sale–– I decided to buy myself something that I otherwise wouldn’t if it weren’t for a sale. I’ve always thought it was a silly expenditure of $20+, not to mention my local Sephora is a pain to get to. But, I caved and got a Beauty Blender sponge.

For those who are like 100% lost as to why I would buy a sponge–– it’s for a more even/flawless foundation application. I was inspired to try it out via a video by one of my more favorite YouTube Beauty Guru’s– Tiffany D –– You can check out her video HERE, if you’re interested in seeing this thing in use.

To be honest, this just may be my most favorite purchase ever! I cannot even express to you how dramatically different your skin/makeup will look when applied with this thing vs. any other method. My boyfriend even noticed!!! I swear by it being the best ~$20 I've spent in a long long time. Satisfied customer x infinity :)

Real Talk: Parabens

So, I figured now that we’re midway through October it might be a good time to revisit the topic of parabens in leu of Breast Cancer Awareness month.

I tune-in to many of the youtube makeup/style guru’s videos, blogs, websites, etc., and I really enjoy that network of girl-world advice. While I know political or social issue soap-box-ing isn’t the route many girls care to direct their channels, I do think it would be nice to see some “girl power”/uniting chatter about breast cancer as it is a disease that claims so many lives.

Fact: 85% of diagnoses have no family history. (breastcancerawareness.com). That means those diagnoses’s come from causes related to diet, wellness, lifestyle and environment -aka- things we can control. I’m willing to bet on average most women hold the attitude of, “Wow, what a sad disease… but I’m not convinced it’ll happen to me”. – realistically. As someone who prefers to take a preventative approach to something as serious as breast cancer, well knowing how deeply it affects lives– I like to focus on the things that are within my power. After all, people always say, “it’s the little things”.

So, Parabens: they’re chemicals found in most cosmetics and skincare products that are injected for a multitude of reasons, but commonly: 1.) to prevent bacteria/microbial growth and 2.) to boost a ‘youthful’ appearance– usually by acting as a pluming or lifting agent. While that sounds pretty harmless, parabens (when soaked into the skin) make friends with ostrogen hormones (aka the ones that promote cell growth), and fool the body by mimicing said hormones. As we know, cancer is a cell vs. cell attacking disease, and as you can guess when you build an army of strong faux hormone cells (which hold the capability of multiplying) and they befriend tumor cells… well, that’s not a fun time.

Think of how many things per day (or twice a day) you apply to just your face:

• cleanser/face wash
• toner
• moisturizer
• foundation primer
• concealer, foundation (wet &/or powder)
• blush, bronzer
• eye shadow, liner, mascara
• ETC!!

Point being, roughly 10-12 products are being soaked into your skin just via your every day makeup routine. And if each of those products contain parabens… well, I think that’s just scary. I should mention, to avoid parabens altogether in life is virtually impossible. They are in toothpaste, soap, shampoo, makeup, and even in some foods. My goal is mainly to be aware and cut-down whenever possible… and I also think knowledge is power in this instance. If every woman were just conscious of the products they buy, reading the labels on what they’re applying to themselves– it’s a small step in the right direction.

Parabens listed in on labels in the ingredients section to look out for:

• Methylparaben (E218)
• Ethylparaben (E214)
• Propylparaben (E216)
• Butylparaben

I personally think it would be amazing to see Youtube Guru’s support on this topic, or if anything to use your video platform for creating awareness to a disease that’s a concern (or should be a concern) to each woman.

Love your bewebies ladies!! Take a preventative approach to breast cancer and make small lifestyle changes!!

Web linkage you may be interested in:

• Deodorants, Antiperspirants, Parabens & Breast Cancer: a great educational article about parabens in cosmetics
• BreastCancerAwareness.com: a pretty excellent FAQ resource
• Shine A Light On Breast Cancer: a great BCA campaign by Estee Lauder
• KeepABreast.org

Go pink! :)

Do The Twist!

Three considerations make the recipe for this buttoned-up boho look, each layer entirely dependent on the another(s). By selecting a minimal yet powerful pop of color (in this case, orange) and building it in two ways: one that compliments and one that contrasts, are steps 1 and 2. By layering in orange’s complimentary color (blue) in the necklace and denim you achieve contrast. By providing a neutral base for the colors via the button-up and shoes you produce a compliment. And the final ‘ingredient’, shape and texture: by mixing smooth with detailed and curves with strait lines you create a balanced, not too tailored and not too carefree ensamble.

The Breakdown:

Top: JCrew Stretch Perfect Shirt in Smoky Graphite, $29.99 (*Sale)

Necklace: Francesca's Collections Falling For You Necklace in Orange, $24

Pants: Levis Flap Pocket Flare Jean in Creased Pure Rigid, $45 (*Sale)

Belt: H&M Belt in Orange, $5.95

Shoes: Target Xhilaration Sandi Canvas Boat Shoes in Taupe, $19.99

Total Cost of this Outfit: $124.93

Roughly $125 is nothing to scoff at for a head-to-toe ensamble! But, I do have a couple savings tricks up my sleeve for you froogle females–

How to Save on this Look:

• Omit the $45 denim and swap in your own; though, I do recommend a flare, bootcut or even a wideleg.
• Save $20 and skip the faux Top Siders (shoes), and incorporate your own brown or neutral flat.

That's $65 in savings, bringing this look under $100!! That feels good!

Tag: Fall Loves

Five beauty questions and five general Fall questions:

1.) What are your top 5 fall makeup products? ➜ 

1. My eyes change color when the seasons change colder– fact. In fall I like to up-play the greenish amber brown color they get, so I bust out the Hazel/Jade-toned eye liner or mascara. (*I’m not a fan of green hued shadows on myself, so I just stick with subtle touches.) Love the Stila Smudge Pot in Jade, $20 or the Urban Decay 24/7 Liquid Eyeliner in Smog, $18. For mascara I’ll put a swipe of Covergirl’s Exact Eyelights Mascara in Black Gold, $8.99 over my black mascara.
2. Another eye product (sorry to be redundant) would be my trusty Urban Decay Naked Palette, $48. For Summer I used a lot of the pinky shades, but moving into Fall I’m using more of the brown/taupe tones– especially nice for building a brown smokey eye. (*Specific shades w/i the palette: Naked, Buck, Smog, Darkhorse, Hustle).
3. I love the runway look often seen at NY Fashion Week of the bold red lip with minimal other makeup. I recently just purchased the Revlon Just Bitten Lip Stain + Balm in Gothic, $9 and love it! It’s definitely color-true and doesn’t pull pink when you apply it, and the great thing about the stain + balm application is it doesn’t smudge and lasts through a meal!!
4. Women require less make up in Summer because our skin gets a natural sun-kissed appearance, plus we sweat more, swim more and are more active (in general) so it’s common to opt for a more carefree routine. But, as we move into fall the routine shifts. Part of my routine now is enhancing my brows. Instead of applying a brow powder, I actually use the ‘Buck’ shade from my UD Naked palette with a Sigma E65, $9.
5. Again, moving into cooler weather it’s harsh on the skin so I’m sure to moisturize twice daily after cleanser then toner with Clinique’s Dramatically Different Moisturizing Gel, $13.50. It keeps the skin fresh, not oily and I honestly cannot rave enough about it.

2.) What is your fav fall hair product? ➜

I definitely blow dry/flat iron/curl my hair more in Fall and that’s a whole lotta heat damage! To avoid scorching I spray Kevin Murphy’s Damage Manager, $21.50 on my damp hair prior to blowdrying and it keeps my ends ultra healthy! 100% worth the money and honestly one of the best haircare products recommended to me by my stylist.

3.) What is your fav fall nail polish? ➜

I tend to like deep, almost-black shades in the colder months. Sifting through my current polish bag, a few wine-inspired tones are: L’Oreal Paris in Stroke of Midnight (580), $4.99, Nicole by OPI in Show You Care, $4.99, OPI Nail Lacquer in An Affair in Red Square, $7.50 and Milani Nail Lacquer in Garnet Gems (27A), $4.49

4.) What is your fav fall scent? ➜

Because this is a makeup/beauty tag I’m going to assume this isn’t asking about candle scents, etc. SO my fav perfume scent that I tend to transition to in the colder months that’s a little ‘heavier’ than something I’d wear for Summer is Black (for women) by Kenneth Cole, $65, described as: “a delicate blend of lush florals, citrus, sandalwood and musk”. 

5.) What is your most worn fall clothing item & accessory? ➜

I love leggings with riding boots in Fall and a thicker legging is needed in the windy city of Chicago, so I’m in love with the Zara Ponte Di Roma Trousers in Black, $49.90

5 GENERAL FALL QUESTIONS:

1.) What is your fall style icon? ➜

Not sure I could name a celeb or somebody off the top of my head whose style I religiously follow, but I have noticed that the Kardashian sisters are exceptionally awesome at layering. I also love Nicole Richie’s style… but not specifically and only for Fall, pretty much all the time.

2.) You’re going to a corn maze – what do you wear? ➜

Confession: I’ve never been to a corn maze. Eep!! BUT I did tell Ryan that I’d like to go to one this year, so we’ll see. I’d probably wear leggings (like the ones from the fav Fall clothing item question), wellies– in case it’s muddy (like these Hunter Originals, $125), a scarf (like this Merona Woven Scarf, $12.99), and a light leather jacket (like this Moto Jacket, $98).

3.) What is your favorite Halloween movie? ➜

“It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown!” Duh! :P For an actual ‘scary’ movie, I actually really liked “House of the Devil”– it had an admirable 70s vibe to it that I found compelling. I also liked “The Last House on the Left”. Movies I refuse to watch: Paranormal Activity movies! I saw the first one and legit couldn’t sleep for a week! “The Exorcist” I still can’t watch without a month’s worth of nightmares either. I’m a baby!!

4.) What is your favorite Halloween candy? ➜

Peanut butter taffy, yea the vintage stuff that comes in black and orange wax wrappers -or- NECCO Mary Jane’s (same thing).

5.) What are you going to be for Halloween this year? ➜

Probably not going out this year, but if I do I'll probably opt for a simple costume with some crazy makeup like the black swan.