Fashion, Travel & Lifestyle. – Page 189 – As told by Jessica Steele. Based in NYC.

April 8, 2014March 7, 2015

midweek chic

While some mornings I’m feeling creative and really mix things up for work, other mornings rely on an arsenal of easy basics I can throw on and head out the door without needing a whole lot of thought. The key here, from keeping black skinny jeans and a blazer looking altogether boring, are a handful of chic standout accessories. A vintage chunky chain necklace wrapped around my wrist becomes a bold bracelet and these sleek black stacked heels are constantly in rotation. This Olivia + Joy bag is new and I love the way the boxy shape is a little bit serious, but the dotted straw and flash of bright kelly green leather is altogether fun. It’s exactly the sort of modern meets playful balance that I’m always trying to strike in my looks – and since it’s all wrapped up into one piece, I can be ready in no time flat. Now, is it Friday yet?

Sunglass Warehouse Aviators c/o // Urban Outfitters Blazer and Jeans // Madewell Silk Blouse – similar // Sole Society Heels // Olivia + Joy Zarrah Satchel c/o – 25% through today with code FESTIVAL14 // Vintage Bracelets

April 7, 2014March 7, 2015

seeing double

I already tried out gingham on gingham a few weeks back, but when I picked up this swingy little skirt I couldn’t resist another variation on the doubled up print. There’s something about Central Park that always brings out the Blair Waldorf in me, so for a weekend stroll it seemed like the perfect chance to go a little bit schoolgirl with the whole thing, toss on some knee socks (which are actually perfect when it comes to transitional weather), this pink and black satchel (last seen here) and these flashy little Lulu Frost earrings. I love that in New York, even a walk in the park calls for getting a little bit dressed up if you want to.

TopShop Crop Top // Madewell Skirt // Gap Turtleneck // Lulu Frost Earrings // Zara Bag // K.Bell Socks c/o // Steve Madden Loafers – old, dying to have these next // Sunglass Warehouse Glasses c/o

April 7, 2014March 7, 2015

weekend flashback

This weekend started out rainy, living in a still empty apartment and ended with clear blue skies and rooms full of our furniture and a closet full of clothes. In other words, major upgrade. We finally were reunited with all of our boxes and furniture shipped from LA and spent most of the weekend getting things situated. And while tiring, unpacking is sort of fun, right? Aside from the moving I spent as much of Sunday outside as possible, soaking up the sunshine and taking mental notes of all the cute vintage shops, restaurants and bars that pepper our East Village neighborhood. I’ve got a busy week ahead, but filled with some pretty exciting things, so be sure to stick around!

April 3, 2014March 7, 2015

suit yourself

Truth be told, I’ve always felt pretty uncomfortable at the thought of wearing a suit. I guess it’s the creative in me, but suits have always conjured visions of endless paperwork and Excel spreadsheets (not that there’s anything wrong with that – I know many people who truly love creating spreadsheets.. I’m just not one of them). But a cropped trouser, oversized vest and sleek peep toe version? Now that I can get behind. Throw in this artwork of a statement necklace (courtesy of my new gig) and I fit right in around the water cooler at my office. In case you couldn’t tell by that golden light reflected in the windows and hustle of people in the background, my slightly rumpled pseudo suit had just gotten off work when these pictures were taken. I’m still getting used to my new commute, but at 20 minutes long, I know I like it. Lulu Frost Necklace // H&M Vest – old // F21 Sweater – similar // Old Navy Trousers // Sole Society Heels // Bag via Marshalls

April 2, 2014March 7, 2015

let the light in

March was a pretty tough transition. Between the serious weather change, the coast to coast move and the apartment search – everything was in a state of unrest. But yesterday morning I woke up to a new month, a new apartment, and noticeably warmer temperatures and it was like the weight of March had vanished just like that. So I ditched those black tights (practically a second skin at this point) and the heavy coat and trotted out the door in light colors and textures. I last wore this pleated midi skirt back in LA, but feel like it’s got endless more options still in store. A definite run around the city feeling comfortable but still looking chic piece. And I’m hoping there’s lots of running around exploring this month. April is looking very good so far.Old Navy Sweater – on sale! // Lulu Frost Tuilleries Necklace – love this option too – and Vintage Tassel Necklace // Scissortail Clothing Pleated Skirt // Ruche Bag // Sole Society Booties – similar