Fashion, Travel & Lifestyle. – Page 174 – As told by Jessica Steele. Based in NYC.

August 18, 2014March 7, 2015

feeling grand

The Steele Maiden: New York Public Library LBD and Brahmin clutch

When I first moved to New York, I worked just a few blocks away from the New York Public Library and would walk there almost every day to sit on the steps, eat my lunch and take in the city around me. The view of Fifth Avenue, the history inside and the grand architecture all make it one of my favorite places in the city. This LBD is dressier than I really had an occasion for – but when eShakti let me pick out a dress from their site (which allows you to customize each dress based on your size, height and preferences.. how smart is that?) I couldn’t resist it’s charm. I dressed it up with these statement earrings which speak for themselves and happen to match perfectly with this Brahmin fold over clutch – both in this year’s hit color ‘radiant orchid’. Last night, still without a real occasion I decided to take the outfit for a spin on the Library steps. Because really, what better reason than it being a beautiful night in this city?

eShakti Dress c/o // Sunglass Warehouse Sunglasses c/o // Loren Hope Earrings c/o // Brahmin Clutch c/o // Vintage Watch // Sole Society Heels – similar

August 14, 2014March 7, 2015

silver lining

The Steele Maiden: Floral Blazer and Silver Pumps

It’s been pretty gloomy the past couple of days in New York – in fact on Tuesday I was fully dressed to meet Adam for blog photos when we both got caught in pouring (puddles forming inside your shoes) rain. And yesterday morning? Same story. But finally last night the sun came out just enough to snap these pictures. This floral blazer is one of those things I picked up spur of the moment back in LA and has surprisingly proved to be almost an easy as a basic black version. It pairs easily with neutrals (black, white and tan) and hints of metallic like this layered necklace and these Cinderella slipper-esque vintage heels. And the natural waves the morning rain brought out so that I didn’t have to brush/style my hair? There’s your silver lining people.

p.s. I’ve carried this Sole Society bag non-stop this Summer – but I’ve got my eye on this one for Fall.. which lucky for you I’m giving away along with goodies from a few more of my favorite brands. Enter here!

Forever 21 Blazer – similar // Capwell & Co. Necklace // Timex Watch c/o // Sunglass Warehouse Sunglasses c /o // Urban Outfitters Shorts // Sole Society Bag c/o // Vintage Heels – similar via Piperlime

The Steele Maiden: Floral Blazer and Silver Pumps

August 12, 2014March 7, 2015

layers to go

The Steele Maiden: Printed Top and Chambray Shirt

While my day to day style often involves a skirt or dress, when I really need to be on the go (like errands, walking, subway, more walking…) then I often turn to easy light layers like these. This bright printed top from Darling Clothes is actually part of a matching set (originally seen here), but breaking it up and pairing it with solids is an easy solution. A few key accessories like this long pendant necklace and round sunglasses keep the outfit from feeling boring, while the comfy sandals, jeans and chambray mean I can be out of the apartment for hours without skipping a beat.

p.s. In case you missed it – I’m celebrating 2 years of blogging with a fun giveaway!

Sunglass Warehouse Sunglasses c/o // Darling Clothes Top c/o // Lulu Frost ‘J’ Necklace // Vintage Bag // J.Crew Chambray Shirt // Urban Outfitters Jeans // Asos Sandals – similar via Ruche

August 11, 2014March 7, 2015

The Steele Maiden turns 2

And just like that, The Steele Maiden has turned 2! This week marks two years since the day I decided to hit publish on this little corner of the internet world and its pretty exciting to see how far its come. There have been 3 site designs, 2 cross country road trips, a major move to LA and then finally back to New York, endless hours of shooting/editing/writing and more shoes than I frankly have the time to count – and you, sweet readers, have decided to come along for the fashionable journey. Whether you’ve been here since day 1 (hi Mom and Dad!), drop in from time to time, or are just finding me – thank you a million times over. Something you love or would like to see on here? Drop me a line. And stick around – looking forward to seeing where blog life leads us next. And as a thank you – I’m giving away a fun little prize pack from some of my favorite brands! Enter below for your chance to win a $30 gift card to Ruche, $50 to Sunglass Warehouse, these darling little Loren Hope earrings, and this lust-worthy bag from Sole Society.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

August 7, 2014March 7, 2015

tough girl

The Steele Maiden: Leather Top Mirrored Aviators

By now you probably recognize this oversized gingham pencil skirt (and its sister skirt) – but I’ve been loving adding a bit of subtle edge to my more ladylike pieces in these late Summer days and I figured it deserved another moment in the spotlight. I’ve had this open leather tank in my closet since last Fall and honestly only worn it a few times (and usually always layered) – but worn here with a patterned bralette just slightly peeking through it balances out the skirt without veering too over the top. And these mirrored aviators just make things instantly cooler. Since this look is already pretty strong, I went with sleek black and white accessories and called it a day. There’s something about this look that makes me feel both ladylike and tough – a pretty powerful combination. Just ask Beyonce. Sunglass Warehouse Aviators c/o // Urban Outfitters Leather Top – similar Nordstrom// Anthropologie Bra – similar // Topshop Pencil Skirt – similar from ASOS // Rebecca Minkoff Bag via Nordstrom Rack // Seychelles Heels