Fashion, Travel & Lifestyle. – Page 229 – As told by Jessica Steele. Based in NYC.

July 2, 2013March 7, 2015

Blurred Lines.

(Madewell Top – cute blurred option here; H&M Skirt – similar colors here; Leather Belt – similar here; Nine West Heels – old, but I like this option)

I’ve had both this top and skirt in my closet for at least 3 or 4 years now, but never once thought of pairing them together until last week. And blame it on the hit Robin Thicke song by the same name (I’m not usually one for top 100 music – but even I admit it’s pretty catchy) but suddenly these two blurred lines prints just begged to be mixed up…

The trick to making this outfit work is that they’re both in the same color family, and one print (in this case the skirt) is dominating, so the other print (the top) sort of just acts as a supporting role. And, if you’re going a little wild with your outfit, I always tend to ground things with some hefty basics (a solid wedge heel and braided leather belt here do just fine). Otherwise, blur the lines and bend the rules. It’s only fashion after all.

July 1, 2013March 7, 2015

Mediterranean Musings.

(1. C. Wonder Placemats; 2. Lulus Dress; 3. Anthropologie Candle)

If it were in the budget, I would pack my bags and hop a flight to the Mediterranean Sea right about now. Those blue skies and that blue water as far as the eye can see. But until then…

A few options for faking the Mediterranean life, even if you’re only in Missouri.

Nest: We’ve got plain white dishes and a dark wooden dining table, which means the simple switch of a floral arrangement or accent dish really changes up the whole feel of our meals. For summer, I’d love to add these blue ikat place mats to make dinner feel a bit more exotic.

Dressed: While I’ve never been, I have to imagine that you’d be able to find some absolutely beautiful embroidered textiles in the markets surrounding the Mediterranean Sea. And if I can’t be strolling those cobblestone streets, I may as well wear a pretty little knock off. This dress is exactly the sort of breezy one hit wonder you can throw on time and time again in summer (and with that neckline – you don’t even need to bother with a necklace).

The Rest: There’s maybe nothing that makes me think of the ocean more than the smell of it’s air. And if this appropriately named Capri candle from Anthropologie can replicate even a bit of that I’ll be burning it in my apartment all summer long.

July 1, 2013March 7, 2015

Weekend Flashback.

We had a bit of a heat wave this weekend in Los Angeles and I took to arming myself with my best defenses. A little treat (in my case, Swedish Fish) to pick me up in the midst of a warm work day, airy silky dresses to stay cool but still look polished for a sushi date on Saturday night, and – when all else fails – a cold beer at a ball game on Sunday afternoon (where I rooted for the Phillies despite their loss). What are your beat the heat tricks?

P.S. I re-designed my About page and am pretty pleased with the results. Your thoughts? If you want another insider peek into The Steele Maiden world be sure to follow me here and here!

June 28, 2013March 7, 2015

For a Steal.

(Threadsence Necklace; J.Crew Factory T-Shirt; Madewell Skirt; Anthropologie Heels)
Everything you’re looking at above is on sale. Like, seriously deep discount type of sale (in fact the head to toe outfit rings in under $150 total). Just another reason to love the middle of summer? I’m always on the lookout for basics I’ll get tons of use out of like a great solid skirt or classic tissue thin t-shirt, as well as standout accessories like necklaces that add a little edge and heels that make the whole outfit. I’ve got plans to hit the beach, try a fun new dessert place in West LA, and maybe indulge in a few margaritas this weekend. And, who am I kidding, maybe a few sales. Happy Friday!

June 27, 2013March 7, 2015

DIY Paint Dipped Planters.

Looking for a way to spruce up your space in 10 minutes with only $10? Of course you are. So here’s just the thing…

After spying some gold dipped dishes by Nate Berkus for Target, I knew I wanted add a touch of it to my own home. And since I’ve been itching to get these mini succulents ever since I moved to California- I figured the two were a perfect match. $10 worth of supplies (the succulents from Home Depot, the pots and paint from Michael’s) and literally only about 10 minutes later – and there you have it.