Fashion, Travel & Lifestyle. – Page 243 – As told by Jessica Steele. Based in NYC.

April 9, 2013March 7, 2015

On Location.

(Forever 21 Dress – similar here; AE Denim Jacket – similar here; Ruche Wedges)

I still haven’t gotten over the novelty of living just a few minutes away from the studios that produce some of my favorite TV shows and movies. But after living in LA for just over 6 months now, I can certainly understand why they would choose this particular part of the country as Hollywood’s home. Even a small park in our neighborhood looks worthy of being a set location (the giant film camera only adds to the idea)…

With so much beauty to explore, one of my favorite weekend activities has become taking “Sunday strolls” with the boy. With no fear of rainy days, we simply pick a new location each week and walk it out. These excursions don’t really call for anything fancy fashion wise, but I have a bit of an old fashioned streak when it comes to getting dressed (if I could change into a new outfit before dinner every night, Downton Abbey style, I totally would). So while a denim jacket came in handy for a breezy afternoon, a silky bow front dress and walkable wedges dressed the look up just enough.

April 8, 2013March 7, 2015

Name of the Game.

Monogram-initials-personalized-home-fashion-look-for-less

(1. West Elm Whiskey Decanter; 2. Etsy initial ring; 3. Rifle Paper Co. Stationary Set)

In the 90’s initials were preppy (LL Bean and Ralph Lauren were key players), in the 00’s they were for trendy (think Paris Hilton carrying a monogrammed purse with a tiny dog inside), and now in the 10’s it seems they’ve turned decidedly hipster (this succulent planter box in the shape of a giant initial pretty much proves my point). And I’m going to be the first to admit that I don’t hate their latest makeover…

A mix of heritage inspired and sweetly feminine, here are a few ways to get the updated initial look without breaking the bank:

Nest: I think I’ve featured the personalized whiskey decanters from West Elm before, but the initials version just came back in stock and I’m still really coveting these. So perfect for a gift, or just to bring a little personalization to your at home bar.

Dressed: There is something so delicate and pretty about thin little rings like these. I love them in a stack of all 3 of your initials, or a simple single band in your significant others initial as a subtle declaration of your love (way less clunky than the old “wearing their ring” tradition).

The Rest: I am a big advocate of keeping the art of hand written letters alive and there is nothing more classic than monogrammed stationary. This set from Rifle Paper Co. is bound to make it’s recipients smile.

April 8, 2013March 7, 2015

Weekend Flashback.

After a particularly long work week, I was more than ready to welcome the weekend with open arms. That meant dusting off our bar cart on a Friday night, throwing open the windows and letting fresh daffodils bloom on Saturday, and making sunny strolls with the boy a Sunday tradition. Sometimes the only thing better than having big plans, is having no plans at all.

April 5, 2013March 7, 2015

Great Lengths.

Aside from variations in color, my hair has been the same style for easily the past 5 years. And while a few adventurous chops in my middle/high school days (and one seriously dreadful perm…) have proved that long hair really does suit me best, I’m thinking it may be time for a (slight) change? Here’s to spending the weekend brewing over new ideas and giving yourself or your home (or hey, even your whole life) a little makeover. Happy Friday!

(image; print)

April 4, 2013March 7, 2015

Office Style 101

Office-Style-Floral-Dress-Spring-Wedges-Wear-To-Work

(Rogan Blazer – old, similar here; MinkPink Dress – similar here; Lace Top – my own design; AE Belt – similar here; Nine West heels – old, similar here)

I’m lucky enough to have never had to work in an office with a strict dress code, and as a designer I doubt that I ever will. But even if you work in a “creative casual” environment like I do, you still want to dress the part…

With that in mind, I try and keep a bit of distinction between my after hours/weekend looks and those I wear from 9-5. While I may wear this floaty floral dress on it’s own for a date, or with my fail safe denim jacket on a weekend – for work I layered it with a lace open cardigan to add a bit of visual interest and a structured blazer for polish. Plus I belted the lace top so that the whole thing looks a bit more put together and less thrown on as I ran out the door (which may or may not be the truth..). Also, shoes are a game changer in office looks. With a strappy sandal this may come off as too dressy, but with ankle boots or flats it could veer into overly casual territory. A neutral, solid wedge is a grounding finish for the the whole thing. Simple as that. What are your favorite ways to wear Spring trends to the office?