Nautical Goes Autumn

After what was a gorgeous weekend in Chicago, the final clusters of leaves have turned their colors and we start the depressing process of bringing our colder weather clothing out of storage, as we know winter is on the horizon. In leu of the last hints of Summer and sunshine making their departure, I figured I'd compose a 'nautical-goes-Autumn' outfit of the day as a send-off. Coupled with a runway-inspired pony and casual smoky lower-lash-line swipe of navy via the lovely Sienna Miller, this look feeds our final Summer cravings.

The Breakdown:
Earrings: Kate Spade Signature Spade Studs in 14k Gold, $38
Top: TopShop Knitted Striped Short Jumper in Camel, $80
Necklace: Etsy seller 'BriguysGirls' Genuine Aspen Leaf 24k Gold Necklace, $36.55 (*Sale)
Pants: Zara Palazzo Trousers in Navy, $89.90
Shoes: NineWest Beeout in Dark Red Suede, $62.30 (*30% off Sale)
(Shadow pictured: Urban Decay Shadow in Goddess, $17)

Total Cost of this Outfit: $306.75

Sccrrreeeech!! Hold the phone– we can do better than that!

How to Save on this Look:

• While I'm sucker for ultra-classic touches like Kate Spade jewelry, to be reasonable one could out with the spade studs and in with a solid gold stud of their own.
• Same story with the Etsy necklace... If you already own a piece of gold, long pendant jewely or a maybe even a cameo pendant – use your own.
• Even though the NineWest shoes are on sale, you could save (almost) $15 and nab a similar pair from Urban Outfitters: Kimchi Blue Suede Pointy Kitten Heel in Red, $49. Or, save altogether and swap-in your own camel, cognac or brown leather or suede shoe.

By making a few swaps and compromises, you can easily cut the bill in half!

Royal Flush

Today's weather in Chicago: 53º, windy, rainy, grey. Code red! We need a color injection stat! How 'bout a little royal blue to spruce up your look? Combined with vintage pattern, a modern/messy twist on a wavy updo and a punchy red lip (inspired by Ashley Olsen)– you're knock out guaranteed!! What a lovely way to kickoff the week :)

The Breakdown:
Top: JCrew Tissue Turtleneck Tee in Royal, $29.50
Necklace: Brevity Raindrops Necklace (of the Line Collection), $60
Skirt: Anthropologie Tile-Quilted Mini in Blue Motif, $98
Legware: UO Opaque Tights in Dark Grey, $12
Shoes: ALDO Lewi High Heel in Blue Misc., $90

Total Cost of this Outfit: $289.50

Creepin' on $300 is somewhat steep, though one does have to consider the ~$100 quilted skirt taking up 1/3 of the budget.

How to Save on this Look:

• Omit the $60 necklace. While it's whimsical and fun and could be paired with many many things, you could just as easily finish off this ensamble with a simple gold or silver piece of your own.
• Skip the blue shoe. I know, it's both pretty and fun but maybe not the most practical of purchases ($90). Swap-in a cognac or brown leather pump or oxford-inspired shoe from your own closet instead.
• And while I'm a fan of the grey opaque tights, you could just as easily sport a pair of sheer black ones and create the same soft color effect.

And there ya have it, we just took this look down to $127.50! That's more digestible :)

Cubicle Cozy

While online window-shopping for today's outfit du jour last evening, Ryan said, "What outfit would you wear knowing the last days of nice weather are coming to a close?" My immediate thought was something flouncy, airy, light– yet, Fall. Waking up this morning to a grey, ultra windy, rainy 45º day I thought, "Eew. Grab a sweater."– thus, I added in a cardi. Today's look is inspired by the colors found in Essie's Fall nail polish collection (specifically school of hard rocks, cocktail bling and brooch the subject). I love the muted, etherial neutrals because they're not traditionally the tones I think of when I think 'Autumn'. Keeping the etherial theme, my styling inspo for this look is Emerson of EmersonMade-- casual curls that won't get hurt if blown around a bit outside.

The Breakdown:

Top: Anthropologie Serissa Tulle Blouse in Green, $118

Top: Zara V-Neck Cardigan in Ecru/Vigor, $49.90

Necklace: Etsy seller 'Magic Metal' Quartz Crystal Necklace, $24.50

Pants: Express Wide Leg Editor Pant in Cool Earth, $89.90

Belt: Express Adjustable Toggle-Hook Skinny Belt in Ivory, $29.90

Shoes: ALDO Moos Heel in Natural Print, $34.99 (*Clearance)

Total Cost of this Outfit: $347.19

On the edge of $350 is steep, yet not totally out of the park considering tailored pants and an imported top are a part of this ensamble. However, I have a few suggestions:

How to Save on this Look:

• So, the green imported top from Anthro is rather steep. I have a couple of substitutions:
• UO Kimchi Blue Handkerchief Top, $59
• UO Staring At Stars Eylet Blouse, $49.99 (*Sale) -- less sheer lace, and more of a  boho vibe with this one.
• And while the necklace isn't all that pricey, and I think is a pretty unique buy– you could easily swap-in something silver (or gold) of your own.
• You could opt for a black trouser vs. the earthy brown/grey pant shown. And, if swapping out your pants you could swap-in your own black belt as well.
• And finally, I love a patterned pump but it's not a necessary staple for one's show closet. Any neutral or nude pump would be appropriate.

If opting for a less-expensive lace top, like the links above and thereby going in the direction of cream/beige– consider pairing with a cardi or blazer with a more poppy color vs. ecru.

Going Green

A style I'm totally into is the high-waisted jean. I think it's sweet and fashion-forward. So, with the denim as my jumping off point, I created a look that somewhat pays homage to the 70s/mod style, while still remaining current. To top the look off I went with a Christina Hendricks-inspired look, (specifically her character, Joan Harris, from Mad Men) that includes a rosy lip and cheek plus a winged eye and dramatically long, curled lashes.

The Breakdown:

Earrings: Etsy seller 'FriedaSophie' Green Onyx Cluster Earrings with 14k Gold, $39

Top: TopShop Button Pocket Tee in Green, $50

Jacket: Windsor Ivory/Black Stripe Sweater Blazer, $29.90

Belt: H&M Leather Belt in Black, $14.95

Pants: Zara Bell Bottom Jeans in Blue, $79.90

Shoes: Bakers Mona 2 in Black Suede, $59.99 (*Sale)

Total Cost of this Outfit: $273.74

Certainly there's a way to shave that number down some...

How to Save on this Look:

• Simple savings would include omitting the earrings and belt purchases, and using your own accessories. Dressing this look up with a simple pair of silver studs and a silver pendant necklace would also be nice.
• And while I really like these high-waisted denim bell bottoms because they really bring the 70s touch to this look, certainly a pair of jeans that you feel could be 'dress jeans' would work here. I still recommend at minimum a bootcut.
• And the shoes, again while mod– swap in your own black heels or wedges, but certainly not flats– a bell bottom or flare of any kind requires height.

And there ya go! We just saved you at minimum, $100!!

Pretty in Pink

As I popped a grapefruit Halls Vitamin C drop in my mouth this morning– battling an on-coming cold, I had an idea for today's outfit of the day! I know, random... but I went with it. A preppy punch of pink to contrast what is a cool and grey day in Chicago (55º), and cozy high-neck cardigan paired with a casual pony inspired by Reese Witherspoon is the recipe for this cold medicine inspired look! :)

The Breakdown:
Earrings: Etsy seller 'PaintSwatchJewelry' Recycled Pink Earrings, $15
Top: JCrew Factory Perfect Shirt in Mineral Grey Plaid, $44.50 (*Sale)
Top: ModCloth Corner Coffee Shop Cardigan, $59.99
Belt: American Eagle Braided Leather Ring Belt in Brown, $29.50
Pants: Express Zelda Jean Legging in Spiced Guava, $69.90
Shoes: DSW Heaven Patent Flat in Taupe, $39.95
(*Cuff on model's right wrist: Express Sculpted Metal Cuff in Shiny Gold, $24.90)

Total Cost of this Outfit: $258.84 (not including the cuff).

Not terrible, but not great...

How to Save on this Look:

• Omit the fun paint chip earrings, and swap-in your own pair of solid silver of gold posts or hoops.
• Don't purchase an accessory if you have one that could do the trick! Therefore, use a brown belt you may already have.
• Same principal with the shoes– if you have a neutral flat, use your own!

By swapping-in your own accessory basics, you can accomplish a similar look for under $175! You could afford two more tops with the savings!

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!

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. 

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!

Hello Sailor!

Partly inspired by the 40s and partly inspired by men's suiting, this modern mish-mash of the two is sure to be a head-turner!

The Breakdown:

Top: JCrew Puff-sleeve Popover in Stripe, $20.99 (*Sale)

Jacket: Zara Jersey Blazer in Navy, $79.90

Earrings: H&M 9-Pack of Studs, $5.95 (*Faux citrine pair shown)

Watch: Fossil Flight Plated Stainless Steel Watch in Gold Tone, $135

Pants: Zara Checked Print Trousers in Camel, $59.90

Shoes: ALDO Falge Lace-Up Heel in Cognac, $100

(Lipstick pictured: MAC lipstick in Lady Bug, $14.50)

Total Cost of this Outfit: $401.74 (*Lipstick cost not included).

While this look is multi-layered and has many components– that's almost half my rent! By trimming down on the frills, this ensamble has potential to be wallet friendly.

How to Save on this Look:

• Skip out on the watch purchase– hint that it may be a nice holiday gift to your family or significant other! Replace the wristware with some gold bangles if you're itchin' for jewelry with this look.
• Skip the earrings, while they're inexpensive– $5.95 can buy your lunch during the week. Swap in some gold studs or hoops of your own instead.
• Save the $100 on the lace-up shoes. While I love an oxford heel (yum!), you could easily swap in your own brown leather pump and pull this look off without a hitch!

There, isn't ~$160 better?! Bonus: (I've said it before), you can never have too many blazers– they're a fantastic accessory and can be worn so many ways!! Same goes with trousers, I think it's nice to have just as many options of trousers in closet as I do denim and leggings. *It keeps you from wearing jeans every day!

Rosy Rosie

An easy and elegant approach to color-blocking; intertwining classic, casual and whimsey for a polished feminine look. This is the perfect outfit to wear on the day you want to slap the snooze button again, but you know you can't– it'll jolt your senses and prepare you to tackle what to come of your day! You'll be cozy (not frumpy) in the tights/flats duo, yet professional.

The Breakdown:

Top: Gap Knit Turtleneck in True Black, $34.95

Necklace: Betsy & Iya Coin Goddess Necklace, $89

Skirt: EmersonMade Red Twill Pockets Skirt, $188

Legs: Target Merona Cable Sweater Tights in Ebony, $12

Shoes: DSW Rocket Dog Marilyn Fabric Flat in Ebony (or Houndstooth), $34.95

Total Cost of this Outfit: $358.90

Eeh– rather steep for a look that's mostly made of basics. None to worry, I have some alternatives!

How to Save on this Look:

• While the EmersonMade skirt is adorable, $188 (plus shipping) is exactly what I'd call getting bang for my back. This skirt: Piplette by Alice Ritter Alia Full Skirt, available at Urban Outfitters is only $69. That's less than half of the EmersonMade skirt!
• And again, while I am obsessed with the coin necklace from Betsy & Iya– you could swap-in a silve statement piece of your own. *I prefer a longer length necklace with a turtleneck.
• You could also opt to wear your own black shoes; whether they're flats or heels– either would work. *Boots are iffy– if going the boot route, opt for a shoe with as little embellishment/hardware as possible.
• Same with the tights– while I think a cable tight is nice and certainly cozy, you could definitely opt for a plain black opaque version.

For just the turtleneck and the less expensive skirt– the total expense comes to ~$100. I've said it before– don't be afraid to spend your money where it counts. What I mean by that is: stock your closet with quality neutrals and spend on accessories as-needed to give your clothes a twist.

Mentions:

I learned about both Betsy & Iya and EmersonMade through a little boutique in the quaint small town of Delafield, Wisconsin called Monograham. It's owned and operated by Amy Graham– the mastermind behind Smock, a specialty letter press and all-things-paper company. If you're interested in checking out any of these, here's some info:

Monograham on Twitter, monograhampaper.com, smockpaper.com

Betsy & Iya on Twitter, betsyandiya.com

EmersonMade on Twitter, emersonmade.com