Fashion, Travel & Lifestyle. – Page 199 – As told by Jessica Steele. Based in NYC.

January 24, 2014March 7, 2015

ocean blue

From just the right distance and in the right morning light, this baby blue sweatshirt seemed to be a perfect match with the Pacific behind me. While there are an innumerable amount of blue items in my closet, there was nothing in this pastel shade and in the shape of an easy crewneck it’s just the thing to toss on and soften up separates like a crisp button down and high waisted shorts. All together this is one of my ‘anywhere’ outfits – casual day at the office, running errands, brunch with Adam, whatever. And while the majority of the outfit is pretty simple, subtle extras like a fun floral clutch and sparkly necklace keep it from being boring. Meanwhile, TGIF am I right? Hope you all have fun plans!

Old Navy Sweatshirt // J.Crew Shirt – similar // F21 Necklace – similar // Zara Clutch – similar // Urban Outfitters Shorts and Heels

January 22, 2014March 7, 2015

right direction

Despite the fact that much of the country still feels firmly planted in Winter, I’m hoping that instead of seeing these pictures as torturous they serve as a reminder that we are in fact moving (however slowly in some snow covered cities today) towards Spring. I picked up this floral blazer with the initial intention of becoming a pretty addition to my work wardrobe – but couldn’t resist tossing it on with these easy denim cutoffs and my favorite vintage heels for a few quick errands this past weekend. And since apparently I really seemed to have changed my mind about the color pink, this ages old Coach clutch (actually it’s a wristlet – remember when those were huge? – I removed the wrist strap..) provided just the right amount of color.Are you still voting HERE for my chance to go to WWD Magic as an official blogger? If so – I seriously appreciate your efforts! If not, there’s still time! Voting ends Friday.Forever 21 Floral Blazer // AE Denim Cutoffs – similar extra 40% Off w/ code SMILE40 // Vintage Blouse // Coach Clutch – in love with this option – on sale! // Vintage YSL Heels

January 21, 2014March 7, 2015

sweet and simple

While I’m all for a colorful look, sometimes sweet and simple outfits can have an equal impact. Especially when mixing textures and interesting silhouettes. I first tried the pleated midi skirt look last Fall and when I came across this camel colored version from Scissortail Clothing I knew it would be the perfect update as we head into Spring. I love the balance of the long lean lines of the pleats against the slouchy lace top and the rougher braided leather belt. And while this look works as is, I can’t wait to pair this skirt with something like a really bright lightweight sweater or a fun printed blouse. Either way, this fit the bill for an afternoon roaming along Abbot Kinney – a trendy little street filled with boutiques, shops and restaurants close to Venice Beach for those that have never been.

Just a few more days to VOTE HERE – your continued support for the chance to get to be an official blogger at WWD Magic means the world! Thanks so much!

Sunglass Warehouse Sunglasses c/o // Lace Top – my own design // Built by Wendy Tank, old // Vintage Clutch // AE Braided Belt – similar // Scissortail Clothing Skirt c/o– now on sale! // Seychelles Heels

January 20, 2014March 7, 2015

color coded

They say if you can’t beat ’em, join ’em. And if you’re out to beat winter, when LA gives you this weather you may as well be fighting for their team. I picked up this West Coast t-shirt for Adam (along with an identical one that says East Coast just in case you know, we want to switch teams) for Christmas and on Saturday stole it for a trip down to Santa Monica. And while I’m not usually a huge fan of the color pink, these sandals and swingy dress seemed right on a warm day. It’s funny how the weather, the place (like this fun color blocked brick wall) or just my mood can completely change how I feel about a certain color.

p.s. Voting ends Friday for the chance to be an official blogger at WWD Magic in Vegas next month and I’m currently sitting in 9th place (the top 8 are winners!!). I would love to get to share this opportunity with you so if you can, please take a quick second to vote every 24 hours!

VOTE HERE

Print Liberation West Coast T-Shirt // Forever 21 Dress – similar // Anthropologie Sandals // Striped Bag via Marshalls

January 20, 2014March 7, 2015

weekend flashback

Seemingly out of touch with the reality of winter, Los Angeles has hovered in the mid 80’s for the past several days – making bare legs and beach trips the new normal for the middle of January. As my trip back home to the East Coast approaches in a couple of weeks I’m worrying if my legs are going to reject the idea of being forced back into tights altogether. An added benefit of living in a summer’s winter, is that when stores suddenly release their Spring clothes (typically taunting when I lived in New York and was still bundled to my ears) you can actually wear them! So far I’m loving the continuing trend of graphic tees, bright florals, matching skirt and top sets, chalky pastel colors, and anything athletic inspired. What are you dreaming of for this Spring?

p.s. the voting is still going on for the chance to be sent to WWD Magic next month and the race is definitely close. You can vote every 24 and I would truly appreciate the help!

VOTE HERE