Fashion, Travel & Lifestyle. – Page 236 – As told by Jessica Steele. Based in NYC.

June 24, 2013March 7, 2015

Go Flamingo.

(1. Etsy Flamingo Print; 2. Forever 21 Heels; 3. Make Up Forever Lipstick)

Is it just me or does the middle of Summer make you want to go really bold? Like Palm Springs in the heat of summer with a touch of kitsch bold? And when it comes to making a statement, I figure what better source of inspiration than flamingoes…
Here a few affordable options to pulling off the look of that bold bird:

1. Nest: This print would look great in a guest bathroom, or tossed into the mix among a gallery wall with a few other graphic typography pieces, and maybe a black and white landscape. Either way, it’s a simple pop that will brighten up your space on a budget.

2. Dressed: These black and white grid printed heels are just plain fun. I’d pair them with a brightly colored solid silk shift dress (maybe fuchsia?) and legs for days. Wear your hair in a top knot and gold button earrings.

3. The Rest: For flamingoes – aside from their vivid hue – it’s all about the beak. Take a hint and swipe on the brightest fuchsia lipstick you can find (this Make Up Forever version lasts particularly well), because if you can’t in the middle of Summer, then when?

June 24, 2013March 7, 2015

Weekend Flashback.

Now that I’m back from my East Coast getaway, I’m ready to really settle in and enjoy the summer here in Southern California. Sometimes at the height of summer I feel myself start to fade into the heat, but I’m happy to report I’m feeling more inspired than ever – with lots of exciting new projects on the horizon. This is all good news for my closet (and budget) as I’ve suddenly been able to see new outfits and looks where I once saw just the same old things. Want a little tip to shopping your own closet in a new light? Use your favorite magazine or catalogue (Lucky and J.Crew are my go-to’s) and mark your favorite looks, then match them with similar items you already own. Here’s to starting the week off with a new perspective – it’s gonna be a good one.

June 21, 2013March 7, 2015

Classic Mix Up.

(Bauble Bar Earrings; ILY Couture Sweatshirt; Image via Sincerely Jules)

I have very few plans for this weekend – and that’s exactly how I planned it. My casual looks vary on my days off but, well because I’m me, I usually like to add one element that kind of dresses things up. Ever since I saw this look from mega blogger Sincerely Jules I’ve loved the idea of tossing on a great pair of statement earrings with a favorite, perfectly worn in sweatshirt. Here’s to kicking back in style this weekend. Happy Friday!

June 20, 2013March 7, 2015

Off to the Races.

(Gap T-Shirt; BCBGeneration Romper – cute option here; Striped Bag via TJ Maxx; Ruche Wedges)

After a few busy days away, a late night flight, and being dropped into the middle of the work week – I hit the ground running and never quite stopped…

So with the laundry piling up around me and my energy lacking, I did what any sensible girl would do. I shopped my own closet and found just the thing to add a little pick me up. This greyhound print romper is probably one of the more unique items I own and while I don’t wear it often (because honestly, it kind of leaves a lasting impression), when I need it to I know I can depend on it to totally make the outfit. It works for a night out on it’s own, but for day I like to layer it over a t-shirt for a casual feel. All this standout needed was a pair of tie up wedges and a quirky bag and I was out the door – headed towards a finish line called Friday.

June 19, 2013March 7, 2015

Homeland.

(H&M Sunglasses; Tulle Dress – now on sale; Steve Madden Wedges – similar here; Target bag – similar here)

What you’re looking at here (aside from a whole lot of greenery) is the place that I will always call home…

Full of familiar back roads I could drive with my eyes shut, cows that stare at me as I run by (can you spot them in one of the below pictures?), so many of the people I love most in this world, and all of my childhood memories. I’ve left it for countless different destinations in this world (months away in London, years in New York, and now a new adventure in California), but I always return to it, even if only for a few days. While I’m not sure I’ll ever end up back in this small town corner of Pennsylvania, it will always have a pretty big piece of my heart.

This view is across the street from where my parents live. Where you can cross the street without worrying about traffic and where the neighbors always wave hello.