First Outfit of 2015

Wearing //

Express romper, old.

Express moto jacket

Nordstrom necklace, similar

Steve Madden flats

Rebecca Minkoff bag

Benefit Posiebalm on lips

I decided to try something a little different this weekend. This was one of those rare moments where I didn't have an outfit planned or something in mind. I went into my closet and grabbed my romper from over the Summer. I wanted to test myself and see if I could Winterize it (if that's even a word). Since a little black dress goes with everything and is always appropriate, how about a little black romper? It could work. I threw on my favorite jacket, which became a wrinkled mess after a day out running around. A touch of leopard and my new trusty bag, and I called it good. I think it works! I obviously know this only makes sense if you live in a warmer climate like I do, but it would be good for Summer if you don't. Since I feel that I accomplished my style goal last year (buy less, choose well) I wanted to move on. This year, I still really want to reach for what I have, but come up with new ways to get more use out of them. I've been feeling so uninspired lately that anything fresh is welcomed. Give me ideas if you have any! 

What are your style goals this year? Happy 2015!

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Rebecca Minkoff M.A.B. Tote

Real Life

Website

There's no single shopping experience that satisfies my little heart more than a handbag. I can't even explain why. You put stuff into it, and carry it on your arm or shoulder. Um, okay. I do however understand that I am interested in quality over quantity. I'd rather have beautiful staples that I will carry for years to come instead of a giant collection. If I'm going to drop any amount of money on one, it's a well-thought out and researched purchase. I usually think about it for months before taking the plunge. 

This bag was no different. Over the Summer, I was thinking about getting either a shoulder bag or a tote but I also couldn't decide on the color. Red? Cognac? Hunter green? I really couldn't make up my mind until I saw this Rebecca Minkoff tote in "Fatigue". In trying to review the M.A.B, I decided to create a list of pros and cons. Let's start with the 

Pros:

1) It's the medium size, which I think is perfect for someone my height (5'2). I think the large would be too overwhelming for me. 

2) The color. It's the perfect shade of tan, which also means it goes with absolutely everything. It comes in a multitude of gorgeous colors though!

3) The hardware is durable. The saffiano leather is the same as my Micheal Kors Selma satchel, so it's practically impossible to destruct. It has little metal feet on the bottom, which I think is such a great touch. I can see it keeping its shape and structure throughout time. The handles are also very sturdy.

Cons:

1) The handles are a little too stiff and sturdy, if that makes sense. They feel a bit rigid when worn on the shoulder, so I feel more comfortable carrying the bag on my arm. 

2) I really wish it had a crossbody strap for convenience. It's not a shopping bag, let's just put it that way. Great for work, and also as a weekender if you crave the polished look like I normally do.

Overall, I would recommend it and am happy with my Winter purchase. I can easily see myself carrying it through Spring and Summer as well. 

If you have any specific questions, let me know in the comments below!

Oh, and happy New Years! This is my last post of the year, and it feels surreal! Have a great night and be safe :)

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2014 in Outfits

Good morning and happy Monday! I just wanted to share some of my favorite outfits and details from over the past year today. 2014 has been an interesting one, and as far as my style went, I think I stayed true to what I like - feminine shapes and silhouettes, but with a casual California feel. I did glean inspiration from you of course! I'm hoping next year features more of the same, but maybe with a little risk taking. Style is personal, and I hope some of these looks have inspired yours in some small way. 

Linking up with Gina and Caryl today. 

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Cranberry and a New Bag

Wearing //

Nordstrom cardigan

Stella & Dot rebel pendant (another fun option)

Baublebar necklace

Express stretch bracelet, still in stores

Loft jeans

Express cami

Rebecca Minkoff medium MAB (love it in Black Cherry too)

Zara kitten heels, similar here but a bit higher in heel height

When I saw this Rebecca Minkoff a couple of months ago, I waited for it to go on sale. As soon as it did, I jumped. It is gorgeous, you guys. Saffiano leather, a rich tan color, and durable features makes this RM a great investment. I plan on doing a formal review soon. I'm very happy with it, so that's all you really need to know for now.

Speaking of happiness, I met up with two of my favorite bloggers on Monday night. I can't even refer to them as that, more like I met with dear friends I hadn't seen in ages. We clicked right off the bat! I had met Gina before at a RewardStyle event, but it was my first time meeting Caryl. Both ladies are warm, down to earth, and as sweet as can be. Not to mention their fun senses of humor! Husbands came along as well, and they hit it off too. Can I just say, it is so amazing to meet people that exceed your expectations. I often wonder what bloggers are like in "real" life. I try to be as authentic as possible through my writing and my photos, but there is so much we really don't know about one another on the internet. Monday night confirmed that there are genuinely great people who are a part of this community, and I hope to have get togethers more often!

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Plaid Ruffles

Wearing //

Plaid coat (old) but similar

Loft jeans

Sole Society Pumps

MK bag

This coat was first seen on the blog way back in 2010, which is honestly the last time I pulled it out of my closet. I wore the heck out of it until some of the buttons fell off. Then I went to my tailor a few weeks ago when I got my trench coat hemmed, and now it's like wearing a brand new coat! I love the ruffles offset by the dark grey plaid. It's so incredibly soft and cozy, it's darn near like wearing a blanket. I came home to some chilly California weather after my Oahu trip. I was saddened at first because I missed the warm beach, but now I'm fully embracing it. When else do I get to pull out a plush coat? It's December after all, so I'm going to get in as much outerwear time as I possibly can. Happy Monday friends!

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Oahu

I'm back! I think I forgot I had a blog. Okay, that's a total lie. How could I forget you guys? But when you go on vacation, it's a little difficult to get into the swing of things again and so this is my first post in almost a week. I need to plan for my blog better next year. That's one resolution for my list.

My time in Oahu was spectacular. Although I prefer the low key atmosphere of Maui, Oahu has so much to offer in terms of activities, shopping, and nightlife. It truly was one of the most eventful vacations I've had to date. I already posted quite a few pictures on Instagram, so I'm only going to show you my favorites or what you didn't see (otherwise this would be a mile long). My best friend invited me to a wedding, and we met up with all of our old college friends. It's such a different experience going on a trip with multiple people than it is with just your husband or boyfriend. We really didn't sleep the entire time because we wanted to get everything in before our six days were up. I think we did!

The view from our hotel balcony was unreal.

North Shore

There's nothing like drinking from a real coconut!

We were there for Pipe Masters! How cool is that? 

The Pearl Harbor Memorial had me in tears. It was powerful, and an honor to see it in person.

My girl for life. 

Quick little video from a night out for dinner :)

I hope you're having a great week and are looking forward to the weekend. The countdown is on until Christmas! As usual, I'm ill prepared. 

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