Fashion, Travel & Lifestyle. – Page 214 – As told by Jessica Steele. Based in NYC.

October 14, 2013March 7, 2015

weekend flashback

This weekend was full of Fall goodness. Maybe it’s because here on the West Coast there aren’t your typical signs of Autumn that I’m used to as an East Coaster, but in The Steele Maiden household, we’re compensating. Pumpkin cookies were baked, orange lights were strung on the front porch, apple cider margaritas (seriously delicious) were consumed and okay, quite a bit of candy was eaten. Another favorite weekend activity, no matter the season, is taking a trip to the Melrose Flea Market. While sometimes we wander and come home empty handed, this time I scored a silky high waisted skirt from the 50’s perfect. Printed with (you guessed it) Fall’s favorite colors.

October 10, 2013March 7, 2015

black magic

There’s just something about this time of year that feels a little mischievous, a little mystical even. While I’m not terribly superstitious, I do buy into the idea of adding a bit of magic to the everyday. So for an imagined trip to our local Psychic I went for all black – from the tip of my hat to the bottom of my extra tall socks, loose layers and looser curls. In fact, this outfit kind of made me feel transformed into a cool city girl – like I could be roaming around the streets of London or Paris. And there it is, the magic of a good outfit.

Target Hat // H&M Sweater – similar here // Zara Dress – cute option here // The Steele Maiden Necklace // Vintage Bag // K.Bell Socks c/0 // Steve Madden Loafers

October 9, 2013March 7, 2015

subtle changes

My style is pretty consistent throughout the year, but with each season come subtle shifts. Just enough to mark the passing from Summer’s bright and often dress-dominated wardrobe into Fall’s richer hues and more substantial pieces. While my style leans definitely toward the feminine, in Fall I like to incorporate a few more neutral tones and masculine inspired pieces. A sharp blazer, oxfords, tailored trousers and oversized sweaters all get mixed in with my usual skirts, heels and blouses. In this case, a men’s khaki workshirt (picked up years ago for literally $1 or $2 at a thrift shop) acts almost as a lightweight jacket when worn open and desert booties (these have a ‘borrowed from the boys’ feel but the wedge heel keeps me in my comfort zone – plus, unbelievably comfortable). And while you won’t often see me in jeans, but these polka dot skinnies are playful enough to make the cut on a weekend at the park.

Vintage Men’s Shirt – similar here // F21 Tank // Nordstrom Jeans – similar here // OluKai Wali Wedges c/o

October 8, 2013March 7, 2015

top 20 fall essentials

Instead of simply listing my Top 20 Fall Essentials I also wanted to talk through why I chose each piece, things you could substitute and ways you could mix and match them. And a video seemed to be the easiest way to accomplish all of that. Plus you get a glimpse inside my studio where all The Steele Maiden magic happens (and a first look at my DIY hair cut/color). So sit back, watch and enjoy! Plus see below for the complete list of Fall Essentials and where to pick them up for yourself…

1. Plaid Button Down Shirt (American Eagle – similar here)
2. Sleeveless Trench Vest (F21 – similar here)
3. Graphic Tee (Old Navy)
4. Open Cardigan (Target)
5. Crewneck Sweatshirt (J.Crew – similar here for under $10!)
6. Solid Mini Skirt (F21 – similar here)
7. Pleated Midi Skirt (Ruche)
8. Polka Dot Jeans (Nordstrom – similar here)
9. Striped Shift Dress (H&M – similar here)
10. Leather Bomber Jacket (Urban Outfitters – version on sale here)
11. Panama Hat (Target)
12. Over the Knee Socks (K.Bell c/o)
13. Scarf (H&M – similar here)
14. Day Handbag (Vintage – great option on sale here)
15. Sleek Clutch (Vintage – similar here)
16. Statement Necklace (The Steele Maiden)
17. Leather Belt (Vintage – similar here) .. forgot to mention this one, but I was wearing it!
18. Stacked Heel Booties (DV by Dolce Vita – similar here)
19. Leopard Printed Flats (Steve Madden – similar on sale here)
20. Black Ankle Strap Heels (Seychelles)

October 7, 2013March 7, 2015

at great length

I’ve been tempted by midi skirts ever since I first saw the trend emerge, but as a girl of just 5’4″ who typically always shows a little leg, it had me worried. Would I look short? Wide? Frumpy? Well, I went for it. And you know what? I felt classic and ladylike. Elegant yet at ease. I liked it. Now, I can’t say I’m going to run out and replace all of my short little skater skirts because those are me. But every now and then it’s nice to change it up. I also like how dressed up the skirt feels and how this plaid shirt (a seasonal favorite of mine) contrasts that. I added statement earrings, high heels (which definitely help with that whole worry I’d feel shorter), and a printed metallic clutch. Turns out there’s a reason girls everywhere are running around with this length.

p.s. Tomorrow I’m revealing my new haircut/color and something else pretty fun – so be sure to check back!

AE Plaid Shirt – similar here // Ruche Skirt // Zara Heels – affordable option here // Earrings -great option here