TBMD

How quickly the leaves change! Just compare today's look (photos taken this morning) vs. the posts from last week. In the span of one week, leaves are now a solid reddish-orange -- simply gorgeous. I need to stop rushing into work in the mornings and remember to stop, breathe in the crisp autumn air, and enjoy the colors while they last.

On a random note, see that car in the background? I assumed it was empty because I couldn't make out silhouettes when I glanced over. So I went about my business and started setting up for photos. Then out of nowhere, I heard the engine start and literally jumped a foot in the air because the noise surprised me so bad. Part of me wished I was already in the midst of photo taking -- the outtakes would've been hilarious.

Can we keep the focus on today's outfit and not the frizzy mess that is my hair? Scratch that, the focus needs to be on outfits only for the rest of the summer. (There's not much to say except I'm the worst when it comes to hair styling. Lack of patience and passion means I'm never going to improve.)

Back to the topic at hand -- today's outfit. I typically reach for shorter blazers/jackets with dresses because they're more formal and suitable for work. The combo with this dress have always felt a bit off to me. Since this dress is already a few inches above the knees, a short blazer makes the dress look even shorter. Then add in heels and I feel like there's so much skin showing.

The long cardigan with dresses look has been popular for awhile. So I figured I can replicate that look with a longer blazer. I think the end result worked out well! A bit business + a bit casual = business casual.

I sound like a broken record because practically every week I have a "new favorite outfit." I can't help it if this fringe sweater has far exceeded my expectations -- dare I say, favorite purchase this season?

My cube-mate is a 20-something guy who wears a blazer to work every day without fail. Blazers over dress shirts, over plaid shirts, over t-shirts. At first I thought he's trying to make a good impression since he's new. Then over time, I changed my tune and figured he must really love them. My thoughts were confirmed when he complimented me on my white blazer. Said it was "so fancy" and now he's looking to add one to his collection. The least expected comments always make my day.

I doubt shoes would get any more inspired than this! These Lauren by Ralph Lauren Aela sandals (currently sold here) are a dead ringer for Jimmy Choo Mitsu's. The lighting of the pictures are probably different, so the gold tone looks a bit off. Unlike the rsvp Tarans and the Manolo Sedarbys counterpart, I actually saw the Ralph Lauren's first. I'm actually not even sure if the Jimmy Choos are from the current season... so I don't remember how I stumbled across the similarities. Alas, back to the review on the Aelas.

They are quite comfortable. I had known this prior to purchasing based on reviews, so I wasn't too worried. And it's only 3" :P (I can't believe I say only as if I wear heels everyday haha). But I think my above average foot arch might have something to do with it. I love the pale gold of the Aelas and feel that it would actually go well with both gold or silver jewelry. I wore these sandals for the first time at a wedding two weekends ago that lasted 5+ hours of me standing and dancing practically the whole time. I was doing pretty good until we ventured out to take photographs on hilly cobblestone roads -_- All in all though, definitely comfortable and worth it if you're going for the classic, timeless look.

*Images courtesy of Studio Saldana