Don't Hassle the Tassel | Style & Co Blouse

Not every trend catches my eye or motivates me enough to want to try it -- For example, I noticed corsets are coming back in a much more casual way than Rose in Titanic but the comfort factor definitely still looks to be missing. I've seen them layered over a t-shirt or structured white button-down and while I don't think it's unattractive, it's just not my jam due to how impractical and restricting they seem...oh, and I can only imagine my husband's reaction if I tried to layer one over a dress...pure confusion ;)

But that said, I AM definitely enjoying the tassel trend, whether it's on a woven tote or lining the edge of a blouse. I feel like they bring a little bit of party to any outfit, like this bell-sleeve top and white jeans. What started as an otherwise casual look became much more fun with the addition of these tassel earrings. They are also great for dressing up a basic ponytail...throw on your favorite lip shade, colored sunnies and I feel like it's an instant Summer hit. P.S. Some of the BaubleBar tassel earrings are now available at Target for amazing price points -- I love these!! 

SHOP THE LOOK:

How do you feel about tassel mania? Any trends you just can't stand?
Wearing:
Top: c/o Style & Co - Sold out but similar here Jeans: Destination Maternity Sunnies: Quay Australia (similar) Earrings: c/o Gray Monroe Sandals: Old, similar here Bag: Express (similar) Necklace: c/o Park Lane Jewelry Lipstick: c/o GloMinerals - Sorbet

Bell Sleeves & Braids

I have to say, I am loving all the bell sleeve styles currently selling everywhere I look. I still can't get enough of my bell sleeve turtleneck, but I am happy to trade it in on these warmer days for a breezy blouse like the one I styled here. This outfit was perfect for a weekend brunch at my in-laws house. The blouse is so flowy and comfortable, I definitely had lots of room in case I wanted a bit more bacon or a second mimosa (OK, I'll admit it, I had both this day)! ;)

I wanted to style this blouse with black skinny jeans but then I felt like I was wearing too much black for a Sunday with the fam bam. So, I simply did what any fashion minded individual would do. I added lots of plum accessories and gold jewelry of course! Seriously though, is plum not the best color ever right now? I'm still lusting over these boots and I've had them since Fall. The chains on the heel though....swoon!

Top: c/o Style & Co. // Jacket: Sheinside (similar) // Jeans: Gap // Boots: Michael Kors (similar)  Bag: c/o Sole Society // Sunglasses: Kate Spade // Moon Ring & Earrings: Express
Large Ring: c/o Park Lane Jewelry

Are you embracing the retro bell sleeve styles?  What do you think of this pairing?

Everything is Coming Up Roses

I swear, the sun comes out for 5 minutes during a Midwest February and everyone loses their mind. Me included, since this particular day was still pretty chilly but I couldn't wait a second longer to have bare legs, if only for a few moments. I grabbed my husband for a quick stroll in our downtown while might I add, happily bouncing along in my carnation printed shoes. I'm a true sneaker fan at heart anyway but I specifically love these because I don't own anything else like them and they're such a fun, Spring style. Not to mention, by pairing them with this rose embroidered utility jacket, I feel like I was sending a subtle message to my husband about Valentine's Day. If we're being honest, I'm more of a peony gal but I promise not to be picky ;)

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In addition to sneakers, you guys know where I stand on stripes (or if you don't, you can find a little background info here, here and here). Hint, we're in love. In fact, I've actually worn a very similar outfit before which is perfect proof that I can't stay away from the stripes & army green combination. This dress is going to be on heavy rotation for Spring because while it's long sleeves, it's not too heavy and it has a pocket, so need I say more? Plus, I think there's some room for baby to grow so I hope to get a lot of use out of it! 

SHOP THE LOOK:

Wearing:

Dress: c/o J. Jill

Jacket: c/o Style & Co

Shoes: Superga c/o J. Jill

Purse: Sole Society (similar)

Sunnies: H&M

Lip Color: GloMinerals - Crush

Ring My Bell (Sleeves)

Did you hear? Sleeves with some interest are on trend in 2017. We're talking, Jerry Seinfeld's puffy shirt would not only be acceptable but welcomed. I draw the line at an excessive amount of ruffles but I am however having fun with bell sleeves. 

I like the way they create a little extra movement and add a few boho vibes without feeling overwhelmingly 70's throwback. Plus, they're super comfy...so much of what we wear in the Winter feels binding because we add layer over layer so this is a nice way to be covered but still let your skin breathe. The lace detail on the edge of the sleeve pairs perfectly with the floral print and makes me slightly anxious for Spring. The countdown is on, ladies!

SHOP THE STYLE:

What are your thoughts on "interesting sleeves" for this year?
Wearing:
Top: c/o Style & Co Jeans: Old Navy Boots: Choies (similar) Beanie: Old Navy (identical for $10) Earrings: Forever 21 Lipstick: GloMinerals - Sorbet

Leather & Plaid

I love to explore on the weekends - Whether it's finding a new place for breakfast or just taking a drive to a different suburb to check out their downtown. Winnetka is one of my favorite stops around Christmas time because the houses are all decorated so beautifully and it's even better if there's a fresh layer of snow on the ground. As you know, my Mom and I have a tradition of visiting every year...it started with the first time we wanted to drive past the Home Alone house (one of our most-watched movies!) and we loved it so much that we made it an annual event...after our regular sighting of the McCallisters, we enjoy brunch at the smallest restaurant you've ever seen...seriously, if you're over 5'9", it would be hard to even fit inside and there's maybe 10 tables total. A big chalkboard serves as the menu with daily specials...Christmas pancakes, anyone? This means they are stuffed with orange zest and cranberries. FANTASTIC. It exudes charm and I love that we don't know anyone there...it almost makes us feel like we're on vacation. 

This year, we were driving and stumbled upon the most adorable, rustic barn along the side of the road. We both marveled at how perfectly quaint it was, decorated in simplicity with just one wreath and surrounded by a winter wonderland. We HAD to turn around...

Turns out, the barn is full of history. Actually, it's the Schmidt-Burnham Log House, to be exact. We found out the house is the oldest log structure in Cook County still in use and that it was most likely built in 1837 by early settlers in the area. It is also the only home in the area to be continuously occupied for nearly 165 years. Originally located on the grounds of Indian Hill Club, local artist and author, Anita Willets Burnham, “discovered” the log house while on a painting trip in the spring of 1914.  She purchased the home in 1917, relocated it to 1407 Tower Road in Winnetka and restored it to its original condition, adding two bedrooms, two bathrooms and a kitchen.

I was excited with how beautiful it was but learning the history of it was so cool. I was amazed to find out all that happened here so many years ago and here I am, using it as a background for blog photos...I'm sure Anita Burnham would be proud ;) 

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P.S. Two of my recent favorite things? This blue leather jacket (Such a fun, different color!) and my plaid bag, a birthday gift from my Family. I spotted it here during one of our Wisconsin visits and couldn't take my eyes off it. I'm obsessed with the tartan print and it has large leather pockets adorning the front. I put it out of my mind because it had a rather large price tag but little did I know, my parents had purchased it and hid it in their car. It's handmade by a local artist from real Pendleton wool so it has a little extra wonderful. 

Do you ever visit surrounding areas to find something new?
Wearing:
Jacket: c/o Style & Co Jeans: Old Navy (similar) Sweater: Old Navy Scarf: Old Navy (similar under $10) Bag: The Christmas Barn (similar) Hat: Purchased in Ireland (similar) Gloves: Old (similar)

Rocked it & Swapped it: The Perfect Layering Turtleneck

When it comes to style staple pieces, a basic turtleneck is at the top of the list. Like many fashion trends, it's one of those things that you might not have been caught dead in during high school but now that you're older and more refined, so is your wardrobe and the turtleneck is one of winter's necessities. It's not a trend but a classic that you wear & re-wear in so many ways. Use it as a base under a short sleeve dress or layer it under a long cardigan. It's almost hard to tell that this is the same shirt but that's the beauty of it -- different every time. 
GRAY TURTLENECKS UNDER $75:

See our other swaps on Instagram!

The Return of Corduroy

I loved Corduroy as a little girl. The texture, sure, but my mind automatically wanders to the book and the equally classic sequel, a Pocket for Corduroy. I remember reading it over and over with my Mom and loving the feeling of familiarity it gave me. It's one of those childhood memories that sticks with me and came back in a flash when I put on these ultra-soft corduroy pants. Much like the book, I haven't worn corduroy in years which I quickly discovered is a mistake because these are the softest things I have ever pulled on. That's right, pull...these babies go on like leggings but wear like nice pants, and did I mention they have pockets? I love it when comfort and functionality meet. 

When it came to styling these, I had no doubts about what to pair them with. I have been loving the return of matching sets which I first noticed this Summer and has continued well into the Fall with another luxurious trend, velvet pantsuits. My plaid sweater and corduroy leggings may not have been sold as a set but I was excited to create my own and mix rich, complimentary textures. And obviously I couldn't stop there...the matching booties just HAD to be included :) 

Wearing:

Jacket: Sheinside (similar)

Top: c/o J. Jill

Leggings: c/o Style & Co

Booties: Sole Society (similar)

Bag: E Street Denim

Necklace: T+J Designs (similar)