Hit or Miss

Wearing //

Old Navy blouse

Old Navy flats

Loft jeans, similar

J.Crew Factory clutch, similar

Stella & Dot necklace and ring (you need both)

I used to shop fairly often at Old Navy, but the quality of their clothing has always been hit or miss for me so I stopped going there for awhile. Recently, I decided to give them another look and I was pleasantly surprised with my purchases. I'm trying to cut back on shopping and have even decided to put myself on a ban for the remainder of the year. That might seem drastic but I'd rather focus my energy on re-styling the pieces I own and have recently bought, rather than constantly clearing out my closet for new things. But back to Old Navy. I really love the feminine lace detail at the neckline of my blouse, and the color is stunning. Jewel tones are my favorite this time of year, and although it's nothing ground-breaking, I like to mix them in with neutrals. The flats are also a great find. I've been wanting a pair of camel flats for months and I'm glad I didn't have to spend much at all on these. My Stella & Dot jewels pull it all together! Love them.

I hope you ladies are doing well. I've been in a funk for the past few days so I'm trying my best to shake it off. Maybe once the election is over tonight I'll feel better! We can probably all agree on that.

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Fall for the Moment

Wearing //

Rails plaid shirt, similar for less

Express skirt, similar here & here

Hinge lace up heels

Nordstrom clutch, similar

Kendra Scott necklace

Beauty //

Pedicure in Essie Flowerista 

Lips in Glo Minerals Aubergine

John Frieda Air Dry Waves

It's about that time again. That magical moment each year where southern California finally starts feeling like Fall, and every woman I know gets so OMG excited to wear all the things - boots, plaid, sweaters, leggings, you name it. It usually lasts for a few days, and then just like that, the weather changes to Summer again and we go back to wearing tee shirts. Some refuse to accept this, and I completely understand the frustration. I used to be that person, until I finally realized that common sense says that people should dress for the weather, and not for the season. We live in a beautiful place so we may as well enjoy it and stop the complaining. Like one of my favorite quotes says, "nothing is under control" the least of which is the weather! Wherever you are, just embrace it. Unless you're so miserable that you plan on moving, then that's different!

But on this particular day, it did feel like Fall and I took advantage. Since it never gets that cold, the best way I know how to incorporate the season is by playing with jewel tones, moody lips and nails, and texture. I may be wearing a suede skirt and a thin plaid shirt, but it looks the part right? They say that life begins again in the Fall, and maybe it's true. I always associate new beginnings with the start of a new year, but it's comforting to think that we can start anew whenever we choose to. It's all a choice, and that we can control.

It's been awhile since I linked up but I'm doing so with Tara today :)

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Fall Series: Part 3 - 2016 Trends

For the last part of our "ten take on Fall" series, I want to talk about two trends in particular that I'm loving. Although I've mentioned several times that I gravitate towards more classic silhouettes, fashion should be fun! And that definitely includes experimenting with what's "in" each season. Just a few pieces and little tweaks can make your wardrobe feel more current, and you don't have to spend a fortune. 

I have this bell sleeved mini dress in two colors, but this one is distinctly Fall due to the beautiful plum shade. I think my mom owned a similar version in the 60's and 70's which cracks me up! The overall shape is a risk because it's well...shapeless. It's not for everyone, and I understand some of you may not like it. A selling point for me is that the sleeves add movement and float around as you walk and talk. I'll say it - they make me feel flirty. I love little dresses and own several, but this trend is unique to my closet and one that doesn't take me out of my comfort zone. 

Wearing //

Lush Whitney bell sleeve dress

Banana Republic bag

Kendra Scott necklace

Stella & Dot covet initial necklace

Stella & Dot cuff, love this one

Another trend I've had on my radar has been in the shoe department. I love flats and pumps, but lace-up shoes combine the best of both worlds - the comfort of a flat, yet the height of a pump. Most of these styles come with a chunky heel, which provides plenty of stability. I'm like a baby giraffe when I walk, so I can appreciate the support. I like to wear mine with dresses for an elongated look, but I've seen ladies pair them with skinny jeans. I'll have to try that next! 

Hinge lace-up heels

Other trends I'm trying:

1) Chokers - I just placed my samples for Stella & Dot and I included this beauty. I'm a child of the 90's so this is a fun way to pay homage to that period.

2) Off the shoulder - This one is still going strong! I have two off the shoulder tops left over from Summer and I plan on wearing them on warmer Fall days. Love this option!

An InLinkz Link-up

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Fall Series: Part 2 - Must Haves

For the second part of the Fall style series (see part one here), I am sharing what I consider "must-haves". You know, the pieces you'll be seeing frequently around here. Every Fall, my outfits tend to revolve around a simple formula: camisole + blazer + denim + pumps. Sometimes I'll vary by switching my shoes and bag but otherwise, I adhere to this style because it's classic, polished, and easy. It works for almost any occasion, casual or dressy. Of course if you're in an office, a pair of tailored pants or a pencil skirt can replace the denim. I swear this is what I go for every year! I don't care what is considered trendy at the moment, when I think of Fall, I immediately grab the classics.

Let's dissect this a little bit:

1. Cami - Every one has a camisole or tank in their wardrobe right? I love layering one underneath a little blazer, cardigan, or jacket. It's a great canvas for pretty necklaces, and you aren't sacrificing style for comfort. It's been chilly in the mornings, but then gets really warm during the afternoon so it's a nice in-between piece for this fickle time of year that a lot of us face.

2. Blazer - I recently bought this ruched sleeve blazer at H&M and I'm really happy with the fit and light color. A blazer always looks good, no matter your shape or size and no matter the occasion. It adds a lot of polish to an outfit.

3. Denim - This is a no-brainer. Dark skinny jeans are flattering and can be dressed up or down. I wear mine constantly year-round, but especially in Fall. 

4. Pumps - Nothing looks as polished as a great pair of pointy pumps. They elongate your legs and depending on the color or print, they can really take a simple outfit from boring to fun. I have a few pairs of these in different colors, and I love the way they make my legs look when I'm wearing jeans. Perfect for a night out! 

Wearing //

H&M blazer, check stores

Bella Luxx cami

Loft jeans

J.Crew pumps, similar for less!

BR bag

Kendra Scott necklace and bracelet

Stella & Dot nomad bracelets

Other must-haves for me this year:

Mixed metals - I used to be OCD about my jewelry choices, and I never imagined I would be into mixing my metals. But ever since becoming a Stella & Dot stylist, I actually have really been enjoying wearing both silver AND gold! It's chic and a little less expected than wearing all one metal. Plus with so many options, it's hard to choose so why not wear it all?

Suede shoulder bag - This bag is a total must-have for me. I bought it while on vacation over the Summer, but the pretty lilac color seems appropriate now as well. 

An InLinkz Link-up

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Fall Series: Part 1 - Maximize Your Wardrobe

I am so excited to bring you a new three part series with nine of my fellow bloggers and friends. Over the next three weeks, I will be showing you my take on Fall clothing, must-haves, and trends. Everyone of course will have their own thoughts on their respective blogs, so be sure to stop by to do some comparisons! Keep in mind that I live in southern California, and we really don't experience much of your traditional Fall weather. It does cool down some especially at night, but there isn't a need for coats, boots, or heavy jackets on most days. My portion of the series will reflect that, but I do think anyone can heed some of my suggestions. I hope you enjoy!




Today I'm showing you how to maximize a key piece that I think was a huge trend this Summer. It definitely works for Fall too, and I think anyone can benefit from having one in their wardrobe. If you don't own one yet, put it on your list!

The Utility Vest:

Summer:
Here is how I chose to style my olive utility vest in Summer. Although layering is completely impractical during the hot months, I was able to incorporate it on top of a girly white dress. I remained cool, but the extra addition revved up the fashion factor and created a more interesting look. It took a frilly frock in a different direction. I wore my vest a ton as a topper to my favorite little dresses, as well as with tees and denim shorts.


For Fall:
It's super easy to make this key piece work in cooler weather. I plan on wearing mine with dark denim and classic accessories to keep the look sleek and polished for Fall. You can mix it up with practically anything already hanging in your closet. You could even layer it over a long sleeve dress, booties, and tights. Take your pick! This staple is fool-proof, which is why I think the transition works from Summer into Fall.

An InLinkz Link-up

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Flowers in the Park

Wearing //

Express moto jacket, similar & love this

Express cami

Topshop skirt, similar

Vince Camuto pumps, similar

French Connection bag, similar

Lisa Taubes necklace

Delezhen stone pendant

Topshop ring 

Beauty //

M.A.C lipstick in Twig

If you follow me on snapchat (noelleengel), you probably saw that on Friday, I decided to break my own blog rule of using props for outfit photos. I'm not sure why I've set this rule for myself, but I think it's mainly because I feel like a phony. "Oh you know, just taking a casual stroll through the park. And whad'ya know? I just happen to have this lovely bouquet of flowers on hand to compliment my outfit." It seems a bit contrived, but because I had to make a flower run anyway, I decided to just go with it and bring them along. They are gorgeous after all, which is why my camera roll has more pictures of the hydrangea than it does of me! I got stopped twice by people asking if Nate and I were newly engaged or getting married. We laughed and played along! I carried a similar bouquet on my wedding day, and it did feel sort of that same way all over again with the sun setting in the background. I wish I could get married all over again. 

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Spring Into Fall

Wearing //

Loft top

Topshop midi skirt, pretty options here, here and for petites

J.Crew Valentina pumps

Kate Spade bag, similar color (love), and similar style (also love)

Baublebar necklace, similar

Beauty //

Dior Addict Lipstick in Diablotine

Chanel Graphite nails

I hate the time change. It was wonderful getting an extra hour of sleep last Sunday, and I do appreciate coming home and immediately slipping into cozy pajamas and lighting five candles that make our house smell like grandma's kitchen. But man is it hard to photograph outfits! My husband and I both work, so I really don't understand how people manage to get the timing right now that the sun goes down before five o'clock. By the time we do get home each day, the sun is gone.These were taken at eleven on Tuesday, and the sun was extremely bright. I'll admit we are pretty lazy with learning more about the ins and outs of photography. We know very little actually. I get dressed, we head outside (usually rushing off somewhere), he points and shoots for a solid three minutes before we both start getting annoyed, and that's about it. 

I am however absolutely loving lighter neutrals and pastels for this Fall and Winter. I think it throws people off a little, but when you live in a place where there aren't any real seasons, your brain gets confused. I used to try so desperately to dress for the season. I wanted to wear giant luxurious coats and leather boots. But the weather tells me differently most of the time, and I've come to the strong realization that it's so much easier to just give in and dress for the climate in which you live, rather then what the season is supposed to look like. I don't live in New England, so why try to pretend I do and sweat my arse off, all the while looking like a total moron? I think I'm starting to get it, guys. This blogging thing has helped me in more ways than I thought!

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Keeping it Simple

Wearing //

Loft top

Loft jeans

MK bag

J.Crew pumps

Olive & Piper necklace

Beauty//

YSL lipstick "Le Orange"

Chanel "Black Pearl" nails

For me, it doesn't get any easier than throwing on a fitted top, tailored jeans, a pair of my favorite pumps, and a structured bag. It's honestly pretty mindless, but that's just what I like on days when I don't have the time (or energy) to really think through an outfit. This uniform works in practically any setting or situation, whether it's out with my husband, meeting a friend, or running around town. As long as the pumps are fairly low, I can manage. I'm starting to reach for basic pieces more often lately, and that extends to jewelry too. I like to wear a watch and just one other jewel to look put-together but not overdone. In fact, I just ordered this little gem from the Shopbop Friends & Family Sale:

Gorjana necklace

Take 25% off with code "Family25"

How cute is the sunburst/chevron design!? What is your current uniform?

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Denim on Denim

Wearing //

Loft softened chambray shirt, love this wash too

Loft moto jeans

Zara pumps (old) but super similar

Michael Kors bag

Fossil gold watch, similar

J.Crew pave bracelet, exact look for less

Gorjana gold cuff

The whole denim on denim trend has always intimidated me. It has reminded me of my high school years, where it just wasn't "cool" to wear mixed denim. Not that I really cared about being cool since I was quite the expert at owning my wallflower identity. However, a lot has changed since those days and I am now convinced that a simple chambray shirt can look crisp and clean over a pair of dark jeans. Pinterest showed me the way. My one caveat is that although I adore my softened chambray shirt from Loft, it is 100 percent cotton. Good for keeping me nice and cool, but what a serious wrinkled mess it turns into after just a few minutes of wear. I promise you guys that I did iron this shirt before I wore it, and yet a five minute car ride was just enough time to create creases and lines. Oh well, what can you do? Go with it I say.

 Oh, and look who came out of hiding? I decided to give my blue Kate Spade bag a rest and bring out my selma satchel for Fall. 

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October State of Mind

Wearing//

Nordstrom blouse (old) but similar here

Loft moto jeans

Steve Madden flats

Kate Spade bag

Baublebar earrings, similar

I thought once October hit, life around here would slow down. Not so! I'm still finding time slipping away, with no shortage of parties, birthdays, work, and appointments. But one thing that is slowing down is the heat, and I couldn't be happier to slip on a pair of jeans rather than the old skirt and top combo you guys are so used to seeing. Finally, some pants! This is absolutely my "Fall" uniform. A pair of flats, a long loose blouse, and crisp new denim to kick-start the season. Now, I just need to catch up on your blogs because Nettie is taking up what little time I have before and after work. I plan on doing some heavy reading this weekend.

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Dark Floral

Wearing //

Loft waterfall cardigan

Loft skirt, love this one

Express cami

Zara kitten heels, similar

Chanel bag, similar here and the look for less

Nordstrom necklace, recent (check stores)

Essie polish in "Urban Jungle"

I originally wore this floral skirt during Summer. Floral print will always bring me back to warmer months, but the great thing about this darker print is that it works just as well in the Fall and Winter. This is what I wore to my friend's wedding rehearsal on Friday. We quickly ran through the ceremony and then celebrated at a casual Mexican restaurant. Her wedding the next day was beautiful! It was near a lake, surrounded by greenery and flowers. It was such an honor to be her bridesmaid. As an only child, my girlfriends have become the sisters I've always wanted and seeing each of them get married over the last few years has been one of the greatest joys of my adult life. There's nothing quite like it.

I hope you ladies had a beautiful weekend!

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Early Autumn Updates

Happy October everyone! This is probably everybody's favorite month. Am I right? At least that's what I keep seeing on Pinterest and Instagram. I am in complete agreement. The promise of cooler weather is always a welcomed one!

Here are some random odds and ends on my beginning to Fall so far...


1. Shoes. I've gone a little crazy with them! I keep adding more to my closet, and I keep wanting more. Case in point:

J.Crew metallic valentina pumps

Steve Madden Flats

These two are next on my list, but I can't decide which I like better. Thoughts?

2. Wearing basic items again and again. I'm sure you ladies have noticed these! As hard as I try to rotate all of the pieces in my wardrobe, I can't help but come back to what's easy, flattering, and obviously that I love.

White Topshop skirt, Blue bag, Metallic pumps. 

I can't stop, and probably won't stop wearing them through Fall. 

Express Barcelona camisoles in white and black. 

Great basic! They are made Fall-worthy by wearing a blazer or jacket on top. I can't recommend them enough. 

3. I wanted to report back on some recent beauty purchases, as seen here:

* The Maybelline palette is good, but I wouldn't say it's anything too special. The colors are neutral, which makes them extremely easy to work with. The color payoff on most of them is decent, with the exception of the lighter shades. They come across as a bit chalky. Overall, if you already own plenty of similar shades from other brands, you don't need this. Common sense alerted me to that before buying it, but I wanted to try it for myself.

* The NARS dual intensity eyeshadow in Dione is gorgeous! I'm very happy with it and have been wearing it on the weekends. It glimmers and shines like no other. I like it so much that I want more, which is always a good sign (or bad for my wallet).

* The NARS illuminator is also really beautiful. I've been mixing it with my lotion on rubbing it on my arms and legs for a subtle sheen. I also dab a tiny bit on my cheekbones, then top with a powder highlight to set it. Again, a stunning product that's definitely worth treating yourself.


4. Nettie is keeping me on my toes, but I love her so much!

How has the beginning of Fall been for you? 

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