TBMD

Never in my life have I worn a pair of jeans that fit perfectly off the rack without any (faux or real) alterations whatsoever. Until today! Boyfriend jeans don't count because they're meant to be baggy. In the past, I always got the length hemmed or simply folded any excess fabric over/under to shorten the hem. Most of the time, the fit is fine around the waist and hips. The minute I tried on these J.Crew jeans, I finally understood why women rush out to stock up once they've found their holy grail of jeans. Nothing makes you feel more confident than a pair of perfectly-fitting jeans. This was also the first time I tried high-waisted jeans, and... I'm smacking myself for dismissing them in favor of low-waisted jeans for years. But, better late than never, right?

The previous few years I was all about wide leg pants that skimmed the floor (examples: one, two, three). I love how comfortable these pants were and how tall I looked even with flats on.

What has captured my heart this season? A wide leg and cropped version. Now this is a silhouette that I never imagined I would be drawn to, let alone wear. For these types of pants, I think it helps to find one with a high waist as it shortens the torso and lengthens the legs. Wearing high heels and tucked in shirts also help to give the illusion of longer legs. For today's outfit, I thought the embroidered floral top was a fun pairing with the yellow bottoms, albeit making me a little "boxy" looking. Stayed tuned for a post next week featuring a (semi) tucked-in sweater with these pants!

I just ruined my average of going a year between ways to wear posts with this back-to-back post. This is what happens when I'm on a roll.

Today's post shows the power of accessories. Two looks that feature the same graphic tee and midi skirt, but each with a distinctive vibe. One is a little dressier with a draped trench and fun heels. The second is decidedly laid-back with an easy cardigan and flats.

I call this my "prim and proper" outfit -- a modern take on a conservative look for the office. Ladies who I usually pass in the hallways with a quick "Hey!" stopped me to inquire and pay compliments, especially the tulle midi skirt. I hate being the bearer of bad news when I told them the skirt is from Banana Republic last year. There's nothing worse when something is within reach, but not quite. The conversation usually then flows to all the times when we wished we had the foresight to buy multiples of something we loved. When we realize this, of course the items are sold out. #firstworldproblems

Today's outfit is inspired by a photo found on Pinterest (I much prefer to credit the original source, but can't seem to find the link). The theme is light blue on navy with the addition of a scarf. I chose casual brown sandals to round out the look. As someone who mostly wears neutral colored shoes, I was surprised to realize that the only brown pair of shoes I owned prior to this summer were a pair of booties. I'm so glad I went out and bought brown summer sandals this year because I sure have worn them enough to get my money's worth!

As expected by now, a week can't go by without another maxi dress outfit ;)

Casual meets dressy is the theme for today's outfit. I'm not one to buy duplicates often, but I couldn't resist this Saint James x J.Crew striped tee from recent sales. I've gotten so many wears out of the green/navy version from last season that I figured a classic navy on white pairing would be even more versatile. Luckily the sizing of this year's remained the same, but unfortunately the material is not as soft.

Have a good weekend, everyone!

Today's outfit may look new, but it's really made up of old pieces worn in ways that have already been seen on the blog. Scarf knotted at ends, unbuttoned chambray shirt, and lace dress with casual sandals. For a puzzle nerd like me, mixing and matching various items and methods is like putting together combos in Tetris -- there are so many ways to build it, but the challenge and pay off are worth the effort.

An easy, casual outfit on this gorgeous weekend to run errands. Hope you have a good one!

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A recent purchase of mine from said store is the scarf worn in today's outfit. I first fell in love with SPG's "Chinese porcelain" DIY skirt, which featured an intricate blue floral design. I wanted something in a similar pattern and color scheme, but didn't have my heart set on a particular type of clothing item. After passing on a Zara scarf, I decided to give F21's a try. The pattern reminded me more of Indian Henna tattoos than flowers, but the color scheme was right. Buying scarves from fast fashion type stores is usually a tossup for me because the material used is often stiff and itchy. Luckily, this one isn't the case (100% viscose).

I jokingly mentioned to DH that I was channeling Kobe Bryant and his infamous white outfit for today's look. He took one look at me and doubled over in laughter. I couldn't help but join in soon after.

There's an ongoing conversation in my household about the fashion forward outfit choices by many of today's NBA stars. Most recently, Dwyane Wade and his polka dotted capri pants with matching blazer (photo). Or my favorite from last year, Russell Westbrook in a Lacoste fishing polo and lensless red glasses (photo). The general consensus is that the younger players try to top one another in the outrageousness of their outfits, while the veterans stick to the classics (ie: Kobe always looking sharp... except for the all-white outfit). Looking forward to seeing what outfits players will wear next makes the long NBA playoff season almost bearable.

I really do love the first photo below. The framing, the posing, the colors... all except for that wonky right hand. What the heck?! Let's pretend I'm actually holding a bottle instead of awkwardly grasping the air. Next time, I'll have to remember to Photoshop an object in.

Have a great weekend!