Fashion, Travel & Lifestyle. – Page 218 – As told by Jessica Steele. Based in NYC.

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

October 1, 2013March 7, 2015

closet staples

I talk a fair amount about trends here on the blog, and while it’s true that I like to try out new styles each season, I try to always balance out my looks with at least one or two classic items. Pieces that I know I can count on year after year to get me through. Closet staples are for me the area which I’m willing to make a bit more of an investment, knowing that the quality and the wearability will always be worth it. This Ted Baker trench coat was at the time probably one of the most expensive clothing items I’d ever purchased (even with my discount, hard earned as a Summer intern). But you know what? For the past 4+ years every time I put this on I have instantly felt chic and pulled together. And that to me is priceless. These knee high riding boots from Olukai are a new addition to my wardrobe and already I know these were built to last me. In a rich, go with everything cognac leather, these are Fall and Winter workhorses. And while I’m sure to pair these with lots of denim heavy weekend looks, I like that they’re also polished enough to take me to work. I’d love to hear what some of your closet staples look like?

Ted Baker Trench Coat – similar here // Tulle Dress // Vintage Belt and Bag // K.Bell Knee High Socks c/o // Olukai ‘Makawao’ Riding Boots c/o