6 Fall Wardrobe Staples

Now that it's finally October (!), I've been pulling out my Fall clothes more often than not (even though it's still a bit warm outside). Here are 6 wardrobe staples that could be worn over and over again this Autumn...

gray skinny jeans/plaid dress/burgundy flats/bronze accessories/sheer polka dot tights/chunky white sweater

Dance & Fashion

Yesterday, I checked out the new Dance & Fashion exhibit at the Fashion Institute of Technology museum and it was great (and free!). It showcases dance costumes and designer clothing that was inspired by dance fashion. It's really cool to see how these two art forms come together. Some examples of the influence that dance has had on fashion include ballet flats, harem pants, and lightweight cropped sweaters like this. The outfits cover different time periods (from the 1800's to present) and include costumes from ballet, modern dance, and flamenco. It was beautiful and I would definitely recommend going if you get the chance! The exhibit runs through January 3rd. 

Something else dance-related: I recently watched First Position, a fantastic documentary about young ballet dancers training for the Youth America Grand Prix. It's amazing to see the dedication, talent, and passion that these kids have for dance! If you're interested, you can find it on Netflix. 

Ankle Boots: Summer to Fall

Although everyone's wardrobe is seasonal to some extent, it's nice to have some pieces that you can wear year-round. With that in mind, here are 4 pairs of ankle boots that transition perfectly from summer to fall!

1. I love the subtle western look of these boots from Forever 21. ($37)

2. These perforated boots from Old Navy would look great with so many outfits: a sundress in the summer and skinny jeans + a sweater in the fall! ($37)

3. The fringe detail and studs on the back of these boots from Target adds a nice touch. ($35)

4. I like the unique buckle on these faux leather boots from Asos. ($74)

The Perfect Summer Clutch

Normally I carry a large bag, but sometimes it's nice to carry a light clutch, especially during the summertime. I'm favoring brightly colored ones this season...

1. I love the gold metal detail on this cobalt blue clutch.

2. Pastels are perfect for spring/summer!

3. This wave-printed canvas clutch would be great for carrying essentials at the beach!

4. I love that this bright green clutch has a crossbody strap for easy carrying.

        

5. The colors and the beading on this clutch are gorgeous!

6. This clutch would add such a nice pop of yellow to a summer outfit.

A Few Beachy Things

Love this lime green bag for a day at the beach.

This pretty shirt looks nautical and perfect for pulling on over a swimsuit.

I'm not in the market for a new bathing suit, but if I was I'd go with this tapestry print, this geometric one, or this black one (who cares about the tan lines!).

A beach chair and a wine/wine glass holder in one? Genius!

This blanket would be great for the beach and for summer picnics.

I love the gold detail on these sunglasses...and they're a great deal!

....Also, file under "probably freezing but awesome": Surfing in Alaska.

What's in My Beach Bag?

Staying hydrated and protecting my skin (+ relaxing, of course!) are my top priorities at the beach! What do you pack in your beach bag?

Water Bottle / Towel / Bikini / Lip balm / V-Neck / Sunglasses (similar) / Granola Bar / Sunscreen (Lots of it!) / Book / Hat 

Embroidered Dresses

I think embroidered dresses are the perfect addition to a summer wardrobe! Here are a few options I've been eyeing...

Starting with the top row, from left to right:

1. I love that the red embroidery gives this dress from Asos a pop of color. The embroidery around the waist is also a nice touch. ($70)

2. This dress from Forever 21 is the cheapest of the bunch, and would be a great cover-up for a day at the beach. ($23)

3. I really adore the colors of this dress from Ruche! That green is gorgeous. ($63)

4. I like the cut of this smock dress from Topshop and the blue and white looks very summer-y! ($72)

Feeling Peachy

 One of the great things about Spring fashion is the possibilities that come with layering. Pairing combat boots and a military jacket with a pastel-colored dress and dangling earrings makes for an outfit that is sweet with a touch of edginess. I love sandals but sometimes it's nice to switch it up and replace typical warm weather footwear with a pair of boots. 

Target Dress, Lulu's Combat Boots, Ruche Jacket (similar), Target Earrings

Printed Dresses

I love fun and unique prints! Here are a few printed dresses just in time for Spring...

1. I really like floral prints, but the pattern has to be pretty without being too overwhelming. This dress does the trick...the large flowers look great on a white background and the sheer detail at the bottom is lovely. (Ruche $43)

2. I'm not a big fan of animal patterns (as in zebra stripes and leopard print)...but tiny foxes? That I can get behind. (Asos $52)

3. This brightly colored lip print is so unique! I like that from far away you can't quite tell what the print is, it just looks like a random pattern. At first glance, I thought it was leaves. (Asos $47)

4. This dress reminds me of a watercolor painting. I love the triangular cutout on the back! (Modcloth $60)

Spring Sandals

Although it doesn't feel like it today, warm weather is just around the corner. Dreaming of sunny days, I've been eyeing sandals for Spring. Here are a few of my favorites...

starting at the top, from left to right: 1/2/3/4/5/6

Midi Skirts

Midi skirts seem to be everywhere this season. Usually I think skirts that hit just above the knee look best on me, but I'm going to give this trend a try. I like that midi skirts look a little bit more formal while still being light and airy. Here are 6 pretty options (I especially LOVE the pocketed one from ASOS)...

1. Abstract Print /2. Lace/3. Sheer Panel

 4. Pocketed/5. Green/6. Antique Jacquard

Green and Beige Nails

I really like the idea of pairing a bright nail polish with a neutral one. For this look, I used Wild Cactus by Color Club and Sand Tropez by Essie. It's very simple, but you have to make sure you let your first color dry completely before painting on the second color. Start with a coat of clear base polish, followed by two coats of your lighter color. Let it dry completely (I let mine dry overnight). Then use clear Scotch tape, placing pieces of it diagonally across your nails (making sure to press down firmly so no polish leaks underneath of the tape.) Next, paint on the second color, as shown below...

Peel off the tape (carefully) and you're done! Finish with a clear top coat.