For the Boy you Love.

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Today we’re back with the second part of my Valentine’s Day Cheap Monday series.  This time, featuring gifts for the boy you love.  As last discussed here – gift giving for boys often seems daunting (or worse, Valentine’s Day is written off as a holiday for girls and they’re neglected all together!)…

But it certainly doesn’t have to be this way.  While I don’t claim to be an expert, I’ve found that most boys like a gift that is both practical but also something that they may not spend money on themselves.  And then just find a clever way to make it romantic yourself (something covered in hearts or that screams Valentine’s Day is somehow a bit overwhelming to gift a boy in my opinion).  So here are a few more subtle ways to declare your love.

Nest: A bright red iphone dock to be used as an alarm clock is both practical and cool.  Turn it into a Valentine’s gift by attaching a note saying “You’re the first thing I think of in the morning, and my last thought at night”  

Dressed: A crewneck sweater with embroidered anchors is classic (and most important infinitely comfortable).  The attached card could read “Wear my heart on your sleeve” or “You fit me better than my favorite sweater” (courtesy of Lana del Rey).  

The Rest: A classic Moleskine notebook is a tiny splurge he may not otherwise make, but can be used for work, home, or anywhere else he may want down to jot down some ideas.  Inscript the inside of the cover with “For your Love Letters”

Weekend Flashback (and new design!)

Notice anything different? Welcome to The (new and improved) Steele Maiden!  


When I started this blog, I went with a very basic pre-made template and focused my efforts on developing the content that I was passionate about and wanted to share with the blogging world.  With nearly 6 months under my belt, I was in a place where I really wanted to have the design of the site reflect my overall aesthetic (if you are wondering about my inspiration it was a mix of the classic graphics on Madewell.com, the worn in appeal of my favorite gray cashmere sweater, and the wit and bold colors found in Matchbook magazine and mega brand Kate Spade).  This was my first coding work and I’m proud and excited to share the results with you.  I’d love feedback (it’s now easier than ever with my sidebar!).  Plus, if you’re wondering what I’m up to on social media you can find that there as well.  It’s still a work in progress (the archives in the navigation bar will be up and running later this week), but I believe that all good design should be ever evolving.  So keep checking back.  I’m happy to have you and working hard to share my fashionable little journey with you.  


Hot Step.

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Even if you’re not a fan of Valentine’s Day, I venture to guess that you are a fan of shoes?  My first instinct is always towards neutral shoes, but some of my boldest shoes often end up getting the most wear (and are always the most complimented – here’s looking at you cobalt suede pumps).  So why not start off February by treating yourself to an eye catching new pair?  I promise you’ll be wearing them long after the thought of Valentine’s Day has passed.  Happy Friday!

PS. Have you heard of Sole Society yet?  Every single pair pictured above is by the online retailer and lot’s of them are under $50.  With free shipping both ways.  You just can’t argue that.  

Sing her a song.


It’s been quite some time since my last Sound Check post, but there’s nothing that sets a mood quite like music – so for Valentine’s Day here’s a little required listening.  Ever since we got a record player, I’m loving anything with a slightly retro sound – it’s just somehow more romantic, no?  I plan on having this playlist on repeat while I make my homemade cards this weekend! 

Listen here.

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Valentine’s Day – Desk to Date.

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The problem with Valentine’s Day landing on a week night is that you have to manage to transition from what you’ve worn to the office into a dinner appropriate look without much time.  Tricky, but achievable.  So, after seeing this adorable feature over on Ruche, I thought I’d try styling my own Valentine’s day to night looks…

For my ‘Desk’ look, I played up the slightly mod feel of the dress and layered it over a thin black turtleneck, then added quirky yet classic accessories like a matching red belt and leopard print flats.  For my ‘Date’ look, I simply removed the turtleneck and belt, switched to black pumps, and played up the collar detail by adding a few statement rhinestone necklaces (sometimes less isn’t more – I like to wear at least 2 at a time).  Plus, I removed my glasses, swept my hair into a low side ponytail (a perfect hairstyle to minimize the static that somehow always occurs throughout the workday), and added red lipstick (I swear by MAC’s Ruby Woo).  Date ready in 5 minutes flat.

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Insert Collar Mini Dress
 by Tulle
Gap Turtleneck (old, similar here)
Steve Madden Leopard Flats (old, similar here)
Vintage Belt, charm bracelet and silver clutch