The-Steele-Maiden-Matchmaker-Series-Thanksgiving-Day-Post

Is it just me, or did Black Friday come early?  My inbox has been flooded with store sales this weekend, but luckily it allows the perfect chance to buy a Thanksgiving Day dress without the guilt that comes from shopping for yourself too close to Christmas..

Rules for Thanksgiving Day dressing are first and foremost comfort, but preferably in a way that still feels festive.  Above that translates to an easy dress, simple flats, and a few pretty extras.  For those who go out to eat, use it as a chance to be a little fancier – with a flouncy printed dress and sparkly add ons.  If you’re hosting (which I am), a neutral floral shift dress that won’t wrinkle – and may even hide a few stains – will be a life saver.  Round out the mod mood with ballet flats and glittery barrettes to keep your hair out of your face while cooking.  And for those headed to the In-Laws (or other family dinners), a textured shirtdress and classic accessories will make you a chic guest.  All three dresses are under $100 (two are on sale!), and all are far more polished than those elastic waist leggings you were considering.  

(Reservations: Bauble Bar Earrings, BCBGeneration Dress, Forever 21 Flats)
(Hosting: Ban.Do Barrettes, Madewell Dress, J.Crew Flats)
(In Laws: Nicholas ID Bracelet, Ruche Dress, Marais Flats)

the-steele-maiden-happy-friday-think-pink

There’s a lot that’s been said about pastels for fall/winter this year and maybe it’s because the weather in Southern California still feels like early Spring, but I’m totally on board.  There’s just something so nonchalantly cool about throwing a leather bomber jacket and ankle boots on with a shiny pink dress.  Or carrying a romantic literary inspired pink clutch with jeans and a chunky sweater.  And while I’m not quite sure the boy will agree, I like to daydream about washed out pink walls with a plush couch and rustic wooden accents.  Now go see the weekend through rose colored glasses, Happy Friday!

(Dress; Album; Kate Spade clutch; Room)

the-steele-maiden-happy-friday-think-pink

There’s a lot that’s been said about pastels for fall/winter this year and maybe it’s because the weather in Southern California still feels like early Spring, but I’m totally on board.  There’s just something so nonchalantly cool about throwing a leather bomber jacket and ankle boots on with a shiny pink dress.  Or carrying a romantic literary inspired pink clutch with jeans and a chunky sweater.  And while I’m not quite sure the boy will agree, I like to daydream about washed out pink walls with a plush couch and rustic wooden accents.  Now go see the weekend through rose colored glasses, Happy Friday!

(Dress; Album; Kate Spade clutch; Room)


Ta da! A brand new series kicks off today with ‘Three Way Tie’ featuring a fashion-y little character based on yours truly…

Meant to illustrate my “Rule of Three” (a self imposed rule that does not allow me to purchase an item unless I can easily imagine at least three different ways in which I would wear it), each time I’ll focus on one specific item that I either recently purchased or am considering buying – and then shop my own closet in order to make good on my above rule.  Such a great practice in reworking your existing wardrobe (plus in my sketches I get to pretend I have legs for days). 

The Item: A wardrobe essential in the season’s coolest color
          Forever 21Striped T-Shirt
Desk: Dress it up with a mixed pattern blouse and faux leather skirt, but keep it work appropriate with tights and flats.
          Peter Pan Color (Vintage) Rachel Rachel Roy blouse (old), H&M faux leather skirt (old – similar here), 
             Sheer Dot Tights, Steve Madden Loafers 
Day Off: So easy for running around town. Just add jeans, boots and a contrasting vest.
          Urban Outfitters Vest, Gap jeans (old – similar here), DV by Dolce Vita (similar here on sale!)
Date: Play up the sporty vibe with a leather sleeved varsity jacket and wedge sneakers, a lace dress/skirt and knee socks make the whole thing flirty and fun.
          Urban Outfitters Varsity Jacket, Urban Outfitters Lace Dress (old), Knee Socks, Steve Madden Wedge Sneakers


Ta da! A brand new series kicks off today with ‘Three Way Tie’ featuring a fashion-y little character based on yours truly…

Meant to illustrate my “Rule of Three” (a self imposed rule that does not allow me to purchase an item unless I can easily imagine at least three different ways in which I would wear it), each time I’ll focus on one specific item that I either recently purchased or am considering buying – and then shop my own closet in order to make good on my above rule.  Such a great practice in reworking your existing wardrobe (plus in my sketches I get to pretend I have legs for days). 

The Item: A wardrobe essential in the season’s coolest color
          Forever 21Striped T-Shirt
Desk: Dress it up with a mixed pattern blouse and faux leather skirt, but keep it work appropriate with tights and flats.
          Peter Pan Color (Vintage) Rachel Rachel Roy blouse (old), H&M faux leather skirt (old – similar here), 
             Sheer Dot Tights, Steve Madden Loafers 
Day Off: So easy for running around town. Just add jeans, boots and a contrasting vest.
          Urban Outfitters Vest, Gap jeans (old – similar here), DV by Dolce Vita (similar here on sale!)
Date: Play up the sporty vibe with a leather sleeved varsity jacket and wedge sneakers, a lace dress/skirt and knee socks make the whole thing flirty and fun.
          Urban Outfitters Varsity Jacket, Urban Outfitters Lace Dress (old), Knee Socks, Steve Madden Wedge Sneakers