blue collar

The Steele Maiden: Blue Collar

Despite my best efforts, sometimes I still find myself falling into a work-wear style slump.  So lately, instead of simply hoarding pins, I’ve been making a conscious effort to use my Pinterest boards as actual inspiration.  You know, their intended purpose.  After I spotted this look from blogger Fast Food & Fashion I instantly knew I wanted to try my own version.  I went for a monochromatic look with silver accents (another look I’ve been loving on my inspiration boards lately) and I have to admit it actually made getting up before the sun and getting dressed kind of fun.  And in the midst of a hectic week, that’s something worth celebrating.  

J.Crew Chambray Shirt // Tulle Shift Dress // F21 Necklace – this one’s cute too // Vintage YSL Heels

The Steele Maiden: Blue Collar

The Steele Maiden: Blue Collar

The Steele Maiden: Blue Collar

The Steele Maiden: Blue Collar

The Steele Maiden: Blue Collar

closet staples

The Steele Maiden: Fall Closet Staples


I talk a fair amount about trends here on the blog, and while it’s true that I like to try out new styles each season, I try to always balance out my looks with at least one or two classic items.  Pieces that I know I can count on year after year to get me through.  Closet staples are for me the area which I’m willing to make a bit more of an investment, knowing that the quality and the wearability will always be worth it.  This Ted Baker trench coat was at the time probably one of the most expensive clothing items I’d ever purchased (even with my discount, hard earned as a Summer intern).  But you know what?  For the past 4+ years every time I put this on I have instantly felt chic and pulled together.  And that to me is priceless.  These knee high riding boots from Olukai are a new addition to my wardrobe and already I know these were built to last me.  In a rich, go with everything cognac leather, these are Fall and Winter workhorses.  And while I’m sure to pair these with lots of denim heavy weekend looks, I like that they’re also polished enough to take me to work.  I’d love to hear what some of your closet staples look like?

Ted Baker Trench Coat – similar here // Tulle Dress // Vintage Belt and Bag // K.Bell Knee High Socks c/o // Olukai ‘Makawao’ Riding Boots c/o

The Steele Maiden: Fall Closet Staples

The Steele Maiden: Fall Closet Staples

The Steele Maiden: Fall Closet Staples

The Steele Maiden: Fall Closet Staples

The Steele Maiden: Fall Closet Staples


    

tip of my hat

The Steele Maiden: Tip of My Hat
 
My love for this hat is twofold. First, because I just love the idea of hats – they remind me of a time when women fully accessorized before taking on the day (and I think in general it’s nice to put a little bit of effort into the appearance that you share with the world). And secondly, because my hair is in desperate need of a cut and color but this was a much more budget friendly option.  While it remains warm here in Los Angeles, I’m finding that accessories can satisfy my urge for Fall dressing without the threat of overheating.  So bare legs continue, but a berry lipstick and this outfit-maker of a hat allow the whole thing to feel like we’re headed straight into October.  Can you believe it?  Apparently Southern California can’t either.

Wool Hat bought downtown LA- similar here // Target Cardigan // MinkPink Dress – similar here // Vintage clutch // DV by Dolce Vita Boots

The Steele Maiden: Tip of My Hat
The Steele Maiden: Tip of My Hat
The Steele Maiden: Tip of My Hat
The Steele Maiden: Tip of My Hat
The Steele Maiden: Tip of My Hat

The Steele Maiden: Tip of My Hat

 

weekend flashback

The Steele Maiden: Weekend FlashbackThis weekend – despite LA’s resistance – I took to full fledged Fall activities.  Pumpkin bread was baked, knee high boots were worn, sunset strolls in the park were taken.  The whole nine yards.  Aside from reveling in the season, I also joined the inaugural meeting of the SoCal Blogger Society (an inspiring group of girls all banded together in this sometimes bizarre blog life).  As September closes and we get ready to start a new month, I’m more excited than ever for some of the things coming up here on my own blog – so please stick around.  It’s going to be a great Fall. 

between the lines

The Steele Maiden: Between the Lines(Tulle Coat; F21 t-shirt – similar here; Urban Outfitters Shorts – similar here; Seychelles Heels)

I’ve got a thing for stripes.  And black and white.  And lucky for me, this Fall graphic black and white prints are everywhere.  So I’m doubling up for good measure… 

I wore this striped boatneck t-shirt and high waisted shorts throughout the day and loved how these ankle strap heels (which nail it in terms of comfy yet still stylish) gave the look a slightly retro vibe – but since evenings are finally starting to feel like Fall I had the chance to toss on this show stopper of a jacket and the whole thing transformed into something totally modern.  Perfect for an evening stroll (or strut) around the neighborhood.


The Steele Maiden: Between the Lines

The Steele Maiden: Between the Lines

The Steele Maiden: Between the Lines

The Steele Maiden: Between the Lines

The Steele Maiden: Between the Lines