Black and White

Ruche Blouse, H&M pants, Kate Spade Purse (similar here and here) and earrings (loving these), Tory Burch Flats

When I don't know what to wear (which is really more often than not), I gravitate toward the basics: black and white. The combination is just so simple, easy, and effortlessly chic. There really is no way to mess it up! You guys know I love pairing new pieces with old favorites, and that's exactly what I've done with this outfit. The cropped black pants and black flats have been a staple in my closet for a few years now. The white blouse with crochet detail is a new favorite, and I've worn it so many times this summer. It works with so many bottoms, and is such an easy throw-on item that still looks put together. Adding a pop of color to my black and white ensembles is an easy way to change up the two-tone look! I love adding a bright lip or bright bag-- or in this case, both!

 

Don't forget, you can still get 20% off on Shopruche.com with my coupon code: IMAN20 until July 31st!  

The Fourth + 20% off

Ruche Skirt and Sandals, H&M top and sunglasses, Target tote, Kate Spade Live Colofully perfume

Independence Day usually means patriotic colors, a long-awaited 3-day weekend, and, of course, BBQ. This year, we had our share of BBQs a weekend early with our closest friends and family. I don't know what it is about burgers and corn on the cob that brings about such a fun and summery atmosphere, but hey, I'm not complaining. Honestly, I could eat burgers (and pizza) for the rest of my life. My favorite? Anything spicy with lots of avocado and olives. How about you? 

PS. It's barely 9:30am, but can you tell I'm already hungry? 

Midi skirts are huge right now, and I'm in love with this one from Shopruche.com! It was the perfect base for a July 4th inspired look. Paired with a basic striped tee and my new favorite wedges (also from Shopruche.com), it's easy to take from work to the weekend. 

Love this look? Get the skirt, sandals, and lots of other great pieces for 20% off sitewide on Shopruche.com with my code: IMAN20. Valid until 7/31! 

Enjoy shopping and the short work week! 

Purple Pumps

Ruche blouse, H&M pants and pumps, Forever 21 bag, Kate Spade watch and bangle, Target earrings

Yup, I have purple pumps on. Who buys purple shoes? Well, apparently, this girl. I saw these pointed toe heels at H&M last year, and I didn't buy them until three visits later. I debated between these ones and the black ones, and usually I would have gone with the more practical choice of black. But clearly, practicality lost this battle. I guess I was on the whole Radiant Orchid trend way before Pantone ;)

The weekend always goes by too fast. This weekend I watched lots of movies and TV and caught up on several things that had been forgotten for too long. It was a couple days full of lots of ideas, creativity, and plans that I can't wait to share with you all! This week is going to be a busy one, but I'm looking forward to it. Well, more like to the end of it, as usual. Is it Friday, yet? 

Happy Monday, friends!

Four Hours

H&M Sweater, Jessica Simpson skinnies, Charlotte Russe leopard flats, Urban Outfitters purse, Ruche fedora

Weekends dedicated to exploring old favorites call for slouchy sweaters, comfy shoes, and a great hat. These leopard flats literally match with everything, and I have to try really hard not to wear them everyday! I feel like so many people are afraid to wear leopard print, but I've come to discover that it's one of my most basic wardrobe essentials. And now, this hat. I can't say enough about it. But it's amazing how easily a hat can take a basic outfit to the next level.

 It is so crazy how quickly this month is going by! But 2014 is off to a good start--the best part being that I found an apartment! I didn't realize how crucial time is until I started spending almost 4 hours every day in the car on my way to and from work. Yes, you read that right--FOUR. The extra time I have now, since my "commute" is only 20 minutes, is so precious. It's that extra hour of sleep, the moments I get to spend with friends, or the hour every night I can put toward turning my dreams into reality that really matters. Who knew I could get so much done in a few short hours! It's important to take advantage of the time we have right now because once a second passes, it's not coming back. So make sure you make some time for yourself and the people and things that are most important to you this year and for years to come!

Life Lessons

Ruche blouse and jacket, Forever 21 sweater and scarf, Jessica Simpson skinnies, Ralph Lauren boots, Steve Madden tote, Target sunglasses and quilted gloves

A few weeks ago, my family and I took a day trip up to Big Bear Lake. Even though it wasn't cold enough for snow, I was still able to layer up and accessorize/stay warm with gloves and boots. I've been loving the combination of olive and blush pink, and I like how the softness of this knit infinity scarf pairs with the tougher feel of this faux leather and suede moto jacket and aviators. The brown-toned boots, bag, and scarf further helped to soften this look, and were ideal for this mini road trip. 

We spent the day taking lots of pictures, eating, and complaining about how cold it was. There was some manmade snow, so some of us went sledding, but most of our group went on a fun hike. 

Life lesson of the day: Don't wear shoes with heels through the woods. In my defense, I did wear leggings under my jeans, so I was somewhat prepared!  

Rebellious

TJ Maxx shimmery top, Ruche coated black skinnies, Kohl's necklace, Jessica Simpson Booties, Tory Burch clutch

So, I call this my "edgy" look. I know, SO rebellious with a preppy Tory clutch and sparkly top. But it's the leather-look of these coated jeans that is just so out-of-the-box for me. I don't usually wear dresses and skirts, so I wanted to try something new with my pants. And I think they're my favorite purchase this season! The dark color palette is quite different from my usual colorful ensembles, but I actually am liking the charcoal and black for a night out with friends or even a family dinner.

I paired the jeans (which are SO comfy, by the way) with an oversized, yet feminine top and understated accessories. While the snakeskin clutch and silver necklace would otherwise be considered statement pieces, since they're in the same color scheme as the rest of the outfit, I like that they don't overpower the look. 

There's something so refreshing about trying new things, even if it is just new pants!  

Back to School: Transitions

Berry Blazer and stripe blouse c/o Charlotte Russe, H&M white jeans, Ruche green handbag, Rock & Republic white pumps, Target sandals, Tory Burch cuff, Kate Spade watch 

I'm totally obsessed with this berry colored blazer. I know, I say that about a lot of things, but this time I'm serious. It's the perfect transition piece between summer to fall. And it matched with this velvet couch. I mean, what more could you ask for? Here I've worn it with bright white pants, but I can't wait to style it with darker denim and boots as it starts to cool down.

Speaking of transitions, this outfit is great from class to the office. Wear it with cute flats or sandals for a morning of trekking across campus, and swap for a pair of heels when you're headed to your internship or job! Plus, this green structured tote (my new favorite impulse buy!) is the most ideal size for a laptop, a planner and--you know me--a snack!

Speaking of more transitions, I'm moving out of my apartment of 2 1/2 years tomorrow. And I haven't packed up a single thing. Not even a blazer. Which is a problem considering half of my closet is blazers... Oh the predicaments of a style blogger--that should be a blog in itself. Wish me luck guys, and have a good weekend!