Sunday Brunch

Wearing //

Target jacket, similar 

Banana Republic top, similar here and here

Loft jeans, similar

Sole Society heels, similar

Halogen bag, similar

Beauty //

Nudestix lip pencil in Mystic

Essie nails in Cascade Cool

There's not much else in life I enjoy more than a good Sunday brunch. It doesn't even have to be a boozy brunch, although a good mimosa doesn't hurt. Bubbles in the morning can go one of two ways - it can jumpstart my day or it can render me completely useless. Most of the time, I don't put too much thought into what to wear. When it's Sunday, anything goes and I see that reflected in the places where we frequent. There's always a good mix of older people, extended families, and young ladies who look like they are in desperate need of a little hair of the dog. Hey, I've been there!

Anyway, my favorite spot to lazily enjoy Sunday mornings is Temecula Creek Inn, and that's exactly where we went. The restaurant overlooks the golf course, and though I don't know a thing about golfing, I do find the scenery beautiful. There was a group of fashionable girls sitting next to our table that I couldn't help but admire. One was wearing a beige mini dress with black booties and I made a mental note that I want to put a similar look together. If I saw it on Pinterest, it would have been immediately added to one of my boards. Does anyone else do this? I love people watching, and I honestly get so much inspiration when I'm just out and about doing mundane things. In fact, I chose this particular outfit after seeing these colors on a girl at Starbucks. Green and white...go figure!

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Back to the Classics

Wearing //

Anthro Dress, sold out but timeless option

Macy's coat, similar

Halogen booties, similar

Rebecca Minkoff bag

Like most people, it's hard to describe my style in a sentence. I know what I like - feminine silhouettes, neutral shades mixed with pops of color, simple cuts and fabrics, and definitely what I refer to as "classic" leanings. But what does classic really mean? It's difficult to explain but for the purpose of this, I'll try. My interpretation of classic means that I like basic pieces that I can wear in a number of ways. I like to invest in essentials that I know will always be in style, whether it's 2016 or far into the future. Trends are fun to play with, but I prefer to save my money and keep those to a minimum. It really is consistent with my personality as well. I'm a bit (okay a lot) timid in life. I need to be pushed to try new things, and change isn't something I seek out. I'm a creature of habit, I like routine, and I think my personal style reflects that. Hopefully this doesn't make me sound like a wet blanket! I love clothes, but I just know what works for me. When I try to step out of my comfort zone, I always end up coming back to the classics. 

And I always end up cheering when it's Friday. I'd say the weekend is classic too. Have a great one!

Linking up with Tara

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Extra Loved

 I bet you guys thought this was going to be a Valentine's Day post, and I guess it does describe a love affair I have...with certain pieces in my closet. I'll get to V-Day next week, but until then, I have been thinking about my must-haves. That term is used rather loosely in the blogosphere, so feel free to roll your eyes if you must. But since moving into a new home and updating the look, organization, and space in my closet, I've come to realize that there are some things I just wear the hell out of. I reach for them when I feel like a slob, and I reach for them just as well when I want to look my best. It's funny how that works. These are the "best friends", comforting me when I'm down and making me feel like a million bucks when I'm in a great mood.

1. Metallic pumps

Metallic pumps are so essential in any woman's wardrobe. Whether they are bronze like these, silver, pewter, or gold, they add a classic touch to any look. They are less unexpected than basic black, but still neutral. They are fool-proof. 

2. Olive utility-style jacket

So easy to throw on and still look put-together. You can pair this type of jacket with almost anything. It's a great canvas. Honestly, I wear it at least once per week. At least!

3. A black satchel

Who doesn't love a great carry-all? Colors are fun. and once you have a bag in black, go for some color. But I think starting with a great structured black satchel is a stepping stone. This is still my favorite bag, and I've had it for three years. It'll never go out of style.

4. Classic red nails

Whether it's on my toes or on my fingers, I really love the classic look of bright tomato red nails. It reminds me of old Hollywood glamour, and I think it looks beautiful on everyone. I wear it year-round. 

5. Layered jewels

This is one of my favorite photos (the other hand is my best friend). I used to be all about sparkly statement necklaces, and although those are fun from time to time, I now find myself gravitating towards layering dainty pieces that can be mixed and matched to create a look all my own. 

What are the clothes, shoes, or accessories that you can't be without? I'm really intrigued by the concept of a capsule wardrobe. I keep hearing a lot about it, and it's something I would be willing to try. If you have suggestions for how to get started, let me know!

I'm off to Palm Springs for a girls trip this weekend, so be sure to follow along on snapchat. User name is noelleengel. Happy Friday!

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Miss New Bootie

Wearing //

Express dress

Steve Madden booties

Rebecca Minkoff mini m.a.c.

Stella & Dot nova pendant layered with 

the aurora necklace

Use Noelle Engel as your stylist!

Cheeky little title. Every single time I put on a pair of boots, that song immediately comes to mind! Anyway, I really want to thank you ladies (and gentleman) for all of the feedback I received on my body image post last week. I was truly touched by your comments and own experiences, and I even got text messages from my best friends and mother on the subject! I don't think they read here often, but when they do, it means a lot to me. I wasn't sure what sort of response I would get, and I was humbled. Writing honestly has and always will be at the core of why enjoy blogging, and so I've decided to do posts like that more frequently. At least, when I get the itch to say something more relevant than simply describing what I'm wearing.

That being said, I do want to mention that these booties are my new favorite. I asked both Gina and Caryl for advice on them because I wasn't sure if I should get these or a black pair. They both chimed in that taupe was the way to go, and I'm so happy that I went with these. They are definitely versatile! I love how they blend into my legs and give the illusion of longer gams. If you don't have a pair of booties, I highly recommend a style like these. They don't come up as high on the ankle, so they don't cut off the leg line as much as other booties I've seen. These do come in other colors, and all of them are beautiful but I know that with Spring around the corner, these will transition seamlessly.

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Body Image and Blogging

Wearing //

Caslon sweater/tunic

Express jeans

Vince Camuto pumps, similar

Michael Kors bag

Kendra Scott necklace

Body image is a topic I've touched upon in previous posts. It's a natural point of contention when you've been putting yourself out there on a style and beauty blog for over seven years. After reading Alissa's Instagram post on Monday, I clicked over to her blog and it really struck a chord with me so I wanted to bring it up here. I can't take away from her extremely beautiful and thought provoking words, I won't even try. I suggest going to hers immediately (after reading mine of course) but it resonates with me so greatly because since starting my blog, a lot has changed - my weight, the size of my waist, hell the size of everything. I've tried to conceal it by solely posting flattering photos of myself, a trick that I think we all use, style blogger or not. My non-blogging friends do it too. "Don't you dare post that on social media, I look hideous!" or "if you post it just filter it so I look good". Let's face it. We live in a frenzy of staged Instagram photos. complete with filters that quickly hide "flaws" with the tap of your finger. We're so used to this false sense of reality that even I forget what people really look like, at least the ones I haven't seen in years. We've not only become comfortable with this phony sense of self, but I think almost blind to how it really impacts our self-esteem in a negative way. 

I don't want to get preachy here. It's my choice to put myself out there on the internet. Here is the comment I left on Alissa's blog because it sums up my feelings perfectly: Couldn't love this piece or agree any more! I think we all spend far too much time beating ourselves up. Not even on each other, but on ourselves! I've gained almost 20 pounds in two years since getting married. That's a huge what the fuck for me. Excuse the language but that's the only term I feel suits my frustration. I'm slowly getting back down, and I'm starting to make better eating and work-out choices. I'll never be the skinny girl. I'm petite, but I've got curves too, and I don't mind that one bit. We should all take your advice and just stand in the bodies we have now. Not yesterday, not a year from now but now. 

It's not just my weight that bothers me. Everything seems to these days, From my hair to my brows, and definitely to the simple fact that I've had to donate a ton of clothes, and not because of moving. No, the real reason was that they were tight, ill-fitting, and trying to wiggle myself into old size 4 jeans and blazers made me feel like a stuffed sausage. It takes guts to stand in the mirror and decide that you've had enough, and that a change is needed. I'm doing that by getting healthier for myself. But I also really love the idea of just being comfortable with where you are in life. I look at other bloggers and constantly wonder why they aren't just professional models. I thought blogging was a way to give a middle finger to the fashion heads and let them know that we can do our own thing and wear clothes beautifully without the need for photoshop or starving ourselves. I guess it worked, but I feel like it's all swung in the opposite direction. Who's fault that is, I don't know nor do I really care. But while I'm on the internet, I have to keep reminding myself what drew me to do this in the first place. I can and will be kinder to myself. I can and will shed some weight, but don't expect me to get crazy into it because when it comes down to it, I love enjoying life and that includes food. These are just my feelings, and my only hope for being honest about my body image struggle is to let you know why I don't post as often as I used to. It's not just about time constraints because we are all busy! It mainly has to do with just not feeling up to editing 30 photos, and throwing all but maybe two or three "good ones" in the recycling bin. 

 I promise I'm not looking for compliments or validation, just genuine feedback on the subject if you have any! I'd love to hear your experiences, especially as it pertains to blogging. 

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The End of an Era

Wearing //

Express trench and cami

Loft jeans, similar

Old Navy flats, identical and these too

Michael Kors bag

Stella & Dot necklaces

Use me (Noelle Engel) as your stylist

These photos and this post are bittersweet for me. This is the last time you'll see me beside our condo, our first home together as a married couple. It was our first time living in a small space, but it was also the first time we felt like we were truly at home. No parents, no roommates. There were plenty of firsts here. From planning our wedding to getting a dog to turning thirty. I'm going to miss it, even though I'm excited to have more room and a yard again. I won't have to worry about looking put together when I take Nettie out for a walk in the mornings, and I'll be able to do laundry inside the house instead of in the garage. Small luxuries that I took for granted before condo life. But your first real place together as newlyweds is always special, and up until a few months ago, I loved calling this home. It definitely served its purpose, and allowed us to save a little money in the process because our bills were so low. I remember feeling so unsure when we moved in, and now I'm experiencing the same pangs of anxiety as we move out. I told you guys I'm not good with change. Living in a house is a bigger responsibility. I'm excited to decorate, as well as the means to entertain guests. We never really had friends over in the condo because it felt too cramped.

There's so much more I could say, but it's hard to collect my thoughts at the moment. Maybe things are better left unsaid, or maybe I'll write a future post once I feel settled. I'm happy that I'll have my blog archives to look through which documented this period. Even though I don't get too personal on here, it feels like a diary. I have to remind myself that it's just a move, and like most change that has happened so far in my life, I doubt I'll regret it.

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Another Year, Another Outfit

Wearing //

DKNY coat (on sale!)

Zara cami, similar

Express leggings

J.Crew Factory clutch, cute option

Zara pumps, similar

Kendra Scott necklace

Happy new year! So it's 2016 huh? That just sounds crazy to me. It'll probably take at least a month to get my dates right. My co-workers will undoubtedly get a little fed up with seeing 2015 on my documentation but that's one area I struggle with every January! Anyway, I hope you all had a great holiday season! Like most of you, I'm sad the playtime is over. My vacation was interesting. We are in the process of trying to sell our condo so we can upgrade to a house, so realtors and possible buyers were in and out most days. This is my first foray into the real estate world and I must admit that it's pretty awkward due to the fact that we are still living here. I feel like people are judging my decorating. And my cleaning. And, what's that pitbull doing in the corner of the living room? Luckily Nettie is a social butterfly and has been enjoying the flow of strangers. 

That's what's going on lately. I've also been reading about new year's resolutions, naturally. Although I don't mind seeing what others have in mind for their "new year, new you" thing, I am sticking to my no-resolution pact. As in, my resolution is to have no resolution because I am terrible at keeping them. I'm also really terrible with change. I need a giant push to make any life altering decisions, so usually Nate has to coach me, kicking and screaming the whole way, until I realize that the change was actually necessary. 

As for blogging, I'll still be here. I've been doing this since 2009. I'm not going anywhere. My only goal is to keep it as organic and as real as possible, because all of the cookie cutter blogs that are so popular personally bore the hell out of me. But that's for another day to discuss if I ever get the courage :) 

Do you ladies make resolutions? What are you looking forward to this year?

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Pops of Red

Merry Christmas eve everyone! I hope you're enjoying time with family and friends. This is just a quick little post featuring a color that I've been reaching for as a vibrant accent to my outfits. Red has never been my first choice to wear, probably because it stands out so much and I'm the type who likes to blend in. It's a power color for sure, so I've shied away from it until recently. Of course it's perfect for the holidays, but it's also a great way to add interest to an otherwise neutral or basic outfit. I like it to be the focal point of my look, whether it be on my lips, nails, handbag, or even my favorite suede skirt. I let it stand out, and keep everything else more subdued. 

What do you think? Are you loving this color as much as I am?

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Sunday Best

Wearing //

Olivaceous dress

I.N.C. coat via Macy's, check stores but similar

J.Crew pumps, obsessed with these and these

Michael Kors bag

Nordstrom lariat necklace

Beauty //

Essie nails in Urban Jungle

Mac lipstick in Hot Gossip

Let's get right to it ladies. I felt like a "power bitch/girl boss" in this outfit. Or is it #powerbitch #girlboss? Either way, if I could wear a great coat, black dress, and perfect pumps every day of the week, I think I'd get a lot more done around here, and I think my head would probably get a little bloated. As much as I love being comfortable in jeans and a tee shirt, there's nothing quite like pulling yourself together in something more feminine. When I look sloppy, that tends to affect my productivity and overall attitude. I can't make eye contact with the barista at Starbucks if I look like a human gym locker. It may sound silly to some, but the power of dressing up is real. And for the record, I did get my to-do list completed. I finished my Christmas shopping, we dropped off Nettie at doggy daycare, enjoyed a tasty brunch, and had a nice visit with the in-laws. Not bad for a Sunday. Let's see if I can channel this energy for the rest of the week because it's about to get real. Real crazy. I'm sure you feel it too, so wishing you lots of luck!

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Recent Outfits

I've been MIA lately due to being under the weather, but with the help of antibiotics, I'm finally beginning to feel like myself again. I normally don't blog this late in the afternoon, especially on a Friday but I got the itch. When I first started blogging, I'd do it as many or as little as I pleased, and sometimes I miss that freedom rather than it being so scheduled. I know a regular routine makes sense for readership, but for now, I'm breaking the rules.

These are all outfits that I've worn in the past couple of weeks and have posted to my Instagram account. I've linked to items that are still available, and they are all great basics that I mix and match. You've seen them before, many many times in most cases so I hope this is helpful. I'm enjoying posting these!

Wearing //

Loft Cardigan

Express Cami

Topshop Flats

Michael Kors Bag

Wearing //

Express jeans

Essie Nails

Wearing //

Express Cami

Wearing //

Nordstrom Jacket, similar here

The last outfit is probably my favorite! I don't own many scarves. In fact, I can count on one hand how many I have now but this infinity scarf from the Missoni for Target collaboration is the one I always reach for.

I hope you ladies have a wonderful weekend! I'm extremely excited about mine. See you next week!

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The Blues

~ I forgot my sunglasses ~

Wearing //

Loft softened chambray shirt, similar here and here on sale

Express jean leggings

Zara kitten heels, similar

Michael Kors bag

Stella & Dot necklace and bracelet

(Don't forget to use Noelle Engel as your hostess ;)

Beauty //

Make up for ever HD Ultra foundation

MAC twig lipstick

This time of year is always bittersweet for me. I used to love Christmas because it was really the only chance I had to see my extended family. My mother would go all out, working like a mad woman to ensure the perfect decorations, lights, and presents. But after my parents got divorced when I was eighteen, family stopped coming around. We isolated ourselves from people, and I spent most holidays going to friends' houses who were gracious enough to let me join and be a part of their families. Now that I have my in-laws, it's wonderful to be included in their traditions. I'm extremely grateful, but there's still this little ache in my heart because I haven't spent a single Christmas with my own family since I was a teenager. With the work that I do with foster children, I see how this otherwise happy time affects them as well. They long to feel normal. They don't care about gifts like a lot of well-adjusted kids do. All they want is to be reunited with their parents, and unfortunately, that's not a possibility for obvious, heartbreaking reasons.

I don't mean to write such a sad post, especially when it's attached to an outfit I wore but I know I'm not alone in this. Plenty of people experience the holiday blues, more than we probably imagine. In the hustle and bustle of putting together fun looks to wear to parties, gift guides filled with pretty things to buy, and traditions to carry out, I just hope we can be aware that not everyone thinks this is the most wonderful time of the year. For some, it really isn't. I hope for most of you reading this though, you are having a great end to 2015. I am trying my best :)

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Mary Tyler Moore

Wearing //

INC coat from Macy's

Express cami and jeans

Old Navy flats, old

Stella & Dot Bianca lariat necklace

Chanel bag, similar

Beauty //

MAC lipstick in Twig

Essie nails in Limited Addiction

Nate thinks I looked like Mary Tyler Moore in this get-up. And yes, he also called it a get-up. I used to watch Mary Tyler Moore when I was a kid with my parents. I loved her cute little office pencil skirts, bob haircut, and that adorable hat she threw up in the air during the iconic opening. So I'll take the reference as a compliment, however odd it may seem.

I love my new coat! I got it on sale at Macy's last week and used the remainder of a gift card on it. These open draped coats are popping up in my feed on Instagram, and I'm drawn to the relaxed look of them. They are perfect for our weather, where a lightweight coat or jacket is really all we need to get through Fall and Winter. It's an easy topper to throw over as an extra layer.

How was your Thanksgiving?

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Little White Jacket

Wearing //

Target jacket

H&M cami, recent check stores

Loft jeans

Zara pumps, similar

Chanel bag, look for less

Stella & Dot Bianca lariat necklace

Henri Bendel ring (I've had it for years!)

Beauty //

Essie nails in Limited Addiction

There are certain things that I truly believe every woman should own in her wardrobe. Most are fairly obvious, and if you've flipped through any fashion magazine I guarantee that these will be there . The little black dress, a nice button-down shirt, a tailored blazer, classic black pumps, a timeless trench. That's stating the obvious, right? But may I add something a little less unexpected to that list. I am convinced that a white jacket can carry over into any season, and it looks just as crisp and classic as any other jacket you may reach for. I never realized how much I loved this one in particular from Target, until I finally got the sleeves hemmed last week. It had been sitting in my closet for months and I had no idea what to do about it until I came to my senses and took it to be altered. The alteration was very simple, and in two days, I had my perfect little white jacket ready to be worn. I paired it with other classic pieces for a fool-proof outfit that will be in heavy rotation. 

Notice the pretty leaves at my feet? I'm so happy that they are finally changing color here. There's a part of me that gets giddy over them each year because the time for them to fall is fleeting. I hope it's just as beautiful where you live. 

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