Uncategorized – Page 28 – Fashion, Travel & Lifestyle.

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

October 7, 2013March 7, 2015

weekend flashback

This weekend we shook things up a bit. Starting with Friday night’s spontaneous hair cut and color (sometimes you just have to take matters into your own hands, am I right?) which will be revealed in a post on Tuesday. Also revealed that day – a whole new type of post that I put a lot into creating this weekend and can’t wait to share with you. And tomorrow I’ll be trying something new as well around here, notice a trend? Also shiny and new – the fancy cars the boy and I checked out at the OC Auto Show. I’ve come to realize that an Auto Show to him is what window shopping Fifth Avenue is to me. There’s always room to dream a little bigger.

October 4, 2013March 7, 2015

from where i stand / 07

The Steele Maiden: From Where I Stand - Barcelona Fringed Booties

07/ Barcelona wearing fringed booties

About the time that I traveled to Barcelona, Minnetonka moccasins (specifically the fringed bootie versions) were having a major moment. Twenty years old and quick to try out nearly any trend – I had to have them. Kicking around the vibrant streets of Barcelona I felt free-spirited and relaxed in them (after all they’re nearly slippers). Back on U.S. soil? They didn’t work. Not at all my style they quickly felt foolish and didn’t coincide with my fairly preppy wardrobe at the time. But that’s kind of the wonderful thing about traveling – for a moment you can see a new place and be a new version of yourself.

(original artwork by Jessica Steele)

October 3, 2013March 7, 2015

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