Shoe-Centric

Have you ever built an outfit around a pair of shoes? I am totally guilty of doing this way more than I should. Shoes change the whole tone of an outfit in my opinion so it totally makes sense to base outfits around what shoes you want to wear!

Y'all know how ob-sessed I am with the Fall 2012 Michael Kors line but my favorite shoe in the collection has to be the Lesly Bootie:

I love the simplicity or the clean lines and caramel colored leather. My only worry is that it isn't a practical shoe. I adore looking at it but I wonder if would it will fit into my life and everyday outfits since it has a heel? I do think it would look amazing with jeans and a sweater or button down. Here's a few ways I would style them:

I am so torn! They are an amazing shoe but wearing a heel during the day can be tricky. Maybe I just need to bite the bullet and wear them without shame? I need help deciding! I plan to ask for them for Christmas but don't want to get them and never wear them, which I am guilty of doing. Let me know your thoughts! I am so bad at making decisions so I need all the help I can get :) 

Thanks in advance!

-Lanie W.

Ladylike Leather

Leather is not necessarily the first texture I would gravitate towards given the choice. To me it brings to mind images of scary/old motorcycle riders and all things tough, which is nothing like me. However, the past couple of seasons I've noticed leather being used in a much more chic and ladylike way. Leather skirts in particular have taken a turn from the usual black to unexpected shapes and colors.

This is definitely a trend I can get on board with and really love the more structured and dressy aspect it brings when paired with more casual pieces like a simple sweater-

Or ladylike blouse-

And it even looks amazing layered-

What do y'all think about the leather skirt trend? I think it's super chic and can't wait to try it out for myself! I got a deep brown "leather" skirt from Forever 21 last fall but haven't found quite the right time to wear it. After seeing all of these fabulous outfits I'm super inspired to try it out for myself! Follow my Instagram (laniemw) I'm sure I'll #ootd it one day soon! :)

Have a great week y'all!

-Lanie W.

Guest Post: Anya Sarre

I have a treat for you guys today, my first guest post! I am so excited to introduce Anya Sarre! Anya Sarre is one of Hollywood’s most influential trendsetters. A nationally recognized celebrity stylist, Sarre is known for her impeccable eye and ability to tie any look together with the perfect accessory. Named “Best Television Fashion Stylist” for her appearances on Entertainment Tonight, The Insider and countless other media outlets, Sarre is the go-to fashion expert for Hollywood’s biggest celebrities.

Pair Classics and Trends for the Perfect Fall Look

Getting ready for the new fall fashion season should totally be all about what makes you feel great and super-confident in your style.  You do not have to be a celebrity to look your best; all you need is to know what looks great on your body and a willingness to creatively express yourself through your wardrobe.  Go for a look that says, “I look this good when I crawl from beneath the sheets.  It took no effort whatsoever.  Cheers!”  It doesn’t matter if it really was uncomplicated or if it took hours; always go for that effortless persona!

The new fall look is completely exciting this year, and there are tons of styles that I am dying to try.  The first on my list includes a white, scoop-neck tee complemented by a fitted, black pea coat on top.  I am all about bang for my buck, and a great white tee is never going out of style.  Consider a pea coat a great piece to invest in, too, because this traditional favorite will be a classic practically forever!  Another factor to consider is that this combo can be adjusted to look great on virtually any lady with any figure!

Add panache to any outfit with a wine-colored bag, classic in size and form, but with a chain-link strap.  Sticking with a neutral leather purse or funky knit texture is fine, as well, if that is what you are most comfortable with.  

Do not forget; the crème de la crème is in the accessories, my friends.  Work your wardrobe from the ground up by finding the perfect shoes and go for those awesome bangles without a second thought. Just make sure that the metal matches the strap of your purse, as well as your other accessories.  Metallic jewelry is a great way to make a statement this season.  Personally, I’m going with a simple pair of earrings and a pendant necklace to complete my fall outfit!  It is totally acceptable to wear some dangly earrings if you skip the necklace altogether.  

Fall fashion is definitely at its best this season, and the styles are amazingly diverse and fun.  Remember, the key to looking great is feeling great about you.  Choose a style that you feel complements your body, and that makes you feel vibrant and alive.  Fashion trends are great, but don’t be afraid to pair trends with classics if that is what it takes to make you happy about your look.  All of that confidence is going to radiate outwards, touch the people around you and bring positivity to you all.  

Americana: An Ode to Michael Kors

I know I've talked about this collection before, but one post just isn't enough. I took a shopping trip to Atlanta with my roommate this past weekend and had the opportunity to go into an actual Michael Kors store and see all of these items in person for the first time. Being able to touch and try on some of the pieces from the collection made me fall deeper in love than I even thought possible. 

The combination of laid back elements like the most perfect wash/fit jeans and a chunky knit cream sweater with polished elements like a silky equestrian print blouse, exquisite gold jewelry, and beautifully constructed jackets is absolute genius. 

  

    

And can we also take a moment to appreciate the footwear and accessories in this collection? I have never been so enamored with a shoe as I am with the Lesly bootie. The design is so sleek and easy, and the color of the leather brings to mind vintage riding boots or marled caramel. And as usual is jewelry and handbags are as simple yet gorgeous as ever.

(all images via) 

The colors of this collection really hit the nail on the head. Washed out blue jean, orange, camel, hunter green, gold, cream, and chocolate brown work together and separately so beautifully. I have never seen a collection that walks the line between glamour and simplicity so wonderfully. I can't get enough.

His collection is so essentially American, which I love. Some designers are very out-there for my classic taste but season after season he sticks with looks that make me proud of our fashion legacy in this country.  Kors is one of the designers, in my opinion, that can capture the American style to the T. My current inspiration file is full of his leathers, knits, blouses, gold jewelry and beautiful handbags. Can I pretty please just have it all? Sigh.. that would be the ultimate dream. Until that day comes I will continue to dream of this collection and all of the ways I would style it if it were mine. 

Happy Humpday!

-Lanie W.