Weekend Flashback.

The Steele Maiden - Weekend Flashback
Now that I’m back from my East Coast getaway, I’m ready to really settle in and enjoy the summer here in Southern California.  Sometimes at the height of summer I feel myself start to fade into the heat, but I’m happy to report I’m feeling more inspired than ever – with lots of exciting new projects on the horizon.  This is all good news for my closet (and budget) as I’ve suddenly been able to see new outfits and looks where I once saw just the same old things.  Want a little tip to shopping your own closet in a new light?  Use your favorite magazine or catalogue (Lucky and J.Crew are my go-to’s) and mark your favorite looks, then match them with similar items you already own.  Here’s to starting the week off with a new perspective – it’s gonna be a good one.  




Classic Mix Up.


I have very few plans for this weekend – and that’s exactly how I planned it.  My casual looks vary on my days off but, well because I’m me, I usually like to add one element that kind of dresses things up.  Ever since I saw this look from mega blogger Sincerely Jules I’ve loved the idea of tossing on a great pair of statement earrings with a favorite, perfectly worn in sweatshirt.  Here’s to kicking back in style this weekend.  Happy Friday!


Off to the Races.

The Steele Maiden - Off to the Races
(Gap T-Shirt; BCBGeneration Romper – cute option here; Striped Bag via TJ Maxx; Ruche Wedges)

After a few busy days away, a late night flight, and being dropped into the middle of the work week – I hit the ground running and never quite stopped…


So with the laundry piling up around me and my energy lacking, I did what any sensible girl would do.  I shopped my own closet and found just the thing to add a little pick me up.  This greyhound print romper is probably one of the more unique items I own and while I don’t wear it often (because honestly, it kind of leaves a lasting impression), when I need it to I know I can depend on it to totally make the outfit.  It works for a night out on it’s own, but for day I like to layer it over a t-shirt for a casual feel.  All this standout needed was a pair of tie up wedges and a quirky bag and I was out the door – headed towards a finish line called Friday.

The Steele Maiden - Off to the Races

The Steele Maiden - Off to the Races

The Steele Maiden - Off to the Races



Homeland.

The Steele Maiden - Homeland(H&M Sunglasses; Tulle Dress – now on sale; Steve Madden Wedges – similar here; Target bag – similar here)

What you’re looking at here (aside from a whole lot of greenery) is the place that I will always call home…  


Full of familiar back roads I could drive with my eyes shut, cows that stare at me as I run by (can you spot them in one of the below pictures?), so many of the people I love most in this world, and all of my childhood memories.  I’ve left it for countless different destinations in this world (months away in London, years in New York, and now a new adventure in California), but I always return to it, even if only for a few days.  While I’m not sure I’ll ever end up back in this small town corner of Pennsylvania, it will always have a pretty big piece of my heart. 

This view is across the street from where my parents live.  Where you can cross the street without worrying about traffic and where the neighbors always wave hello.    

The Steele Maiden - Homeland

The Steele Maiden - Homeland

The Steele Maiden - Homeland

Travel Light.


I like to pride myself on traveling pretty light, but the reality is that most people overpack tenfold when going on even the shortest of trips.  To simplify things, I’m showing you 3 items that will make your life a whole lot easier next time you board a plane…


The trick here is getting serious about what will make you comfortable and what you honestly don’t need to bother with.  Here, a few affordable essentials.

Nest:  An overnight flight absolutely calls for a neck pillow and an eye mask.  You may feel silly (although a lot less so with this chic striped set) but after a restful few hours of sleep you certainly won’t regret it.  This particular version is inflatable so there’s no excuse that it won’t fit in your bag.  

Dressed: I’ve talked about not really being a maxi dress person before, but they are my go to choice for flights.  A knitted tank version like this one keeps your legs from getting cold on the flight but is breezy enough if you’re headed someplace warm, won’t wrinkle at all, and takes up virtually no space in your bag on the way home.   

The Rest: What is it about flying that automatically turns you into a rumpled mess?  I like to minimize my makeup to just a small bag, like this one, when I travel – going on a beach trip? there’s no need for that smoky grey eyeshadow and burgundy lipstick, so be serious about editing, you’ll save weight and room with less cosmetics.  Plus, once your makeup bag is this small you can throw it in your purse instead of your luggage, meaning a little airport restroom touch up after landing is a whole lot easier.