Mix and Match

5 Items, 4 Outfits, Under $100.

I love a good mix and match--and the other day I found a perfect set of 5 pieces from H&M that mix to create four totally different looks. As I've mentioned before, I don't like to wear an exact outfit more than once, instead trying new ways to match things. So I love that all of these pieces can mix and match with each other as well as everything else in my closet. The sweater, skirt, and bag combo goes so perfectly together it's like it was meant to be. The off white shade ties them all together seamlessly. I was amazed how much I actually loved the floral on floral look of the skirt and tank together once I tried it on. Since the prints are different sizes and they are both in a similar color scheme the look is not too crazy for me and I actually like how girly and bold it is. 

Once we start to get into a little warmer spring weather I can't wait to wear the shorts-and-sweater combo. I've always loved the way a slouchy sweater pairs with shorts or a skirt in transitional weather. And for another print mixing look the floral tank and striped shorts make a great summery match. I love that these pieces give me options to wear from now through summer! The two tone bag (a Gucci look-alike) is fun because it goes perfectly with whites without blending in entirely, and the neutral tone is totally multi-seasonal.

It's rare, especially at a store like H&M, for everything I took in the fitting room to work out, so it seemed like a sign to me that these items were a perfect set to purchase. Plus, this whole haul was under $100.00! The shorts I snagged on sale for $7, the sweater was on sale for $9.99 and the bag at full price is only $19.99 so I felt like I was getting a pretty good deal for four outfit options. Which look is your favorite? 

Ok, the sad news is I literally can't find any of these clothing pieces on HM.com, so I am linking to similar options (the bag is available online!). Check in store though, I find that their website often is not aligned with what they have in store.
Sweater, Skirt/option, Tank/option, Shorts, Bag from H&M. Boots: Sam Edelman (old). Sneakers: Keds. Necklace: Kate Spade.

xoxo, CC

Suede Skirt

Button up skirts are a huge trend this fall, in suede or in denim. I happen to love the a-line fit of skirts like these (not gonna fly up in the wind, but not too tight either) so I went ahead and jumped on this trend band-wagon with a black suede version. Another trend that was huge this summer, the off-the-shoulder look, creeped its way into this outfit too. With such a simple and streamlined black and white outfit I tossed in some bolder accessories, like this chunky necklace, gold heeled sandals, and fringe bag. I wore this look while photographing street style at New York Fashion Week.

As you can see I've given in just a touch to the idea that fall is coming...

Suede skirt: Olivaceous (more options 1/2/3). Top: H&M (1/2). Bag: Rebecca Minkoff. Shoes: Ellen Tracy. Sunglasses: Urban Outfitters. Necklace: J. Crew (1/2). Bracelets: handmade in Senegal.

xoxo CC

City Streets

Photos by Magnolia of Magnolia White

I've now been living in NYC for over a year, can you believe it?! I love exploring this city, and how free I am to wear whatever I like! Such as these gorgeous heeled sandals during the day. 

Denim is a huge hit for the upcoming fall season, so I thought I'd start early with this lighter summery version. This dress is one of my favorite casual pieces because it is so easy and timelessly trendy. The pale color makes it easy to match with everything and is a great sun-washed look just begging to be paired with summer essentials. I removed the tie-belt it came with to make the dress more of a loose shift fit, more suited to a hot day in the city. Printed sandals and a touch of fringe bring some fun details into the look  giving it the perfect casual summer vibe for walking these city streets, something I'll never get bored of. 

Dress: Gap (similar 1/2/3). Bag: Rebecca Minkoff. Shoes: Coconuts by Matisse. Sunglasses: Urban Outfitters. Bracelets: kate spade, Alex & Ani. Nails: OPI 'You're Such A Budapest'

xoxo CC

Lace and Tee

A white lace skirt is an excellent versatile piece to have in your wardrobe. With a nice top and heels it makes a totally dressy outfit, but it is also easily dressed down with a knotted tee shirt and sandals. I went for something in between by balancing a simple tee with wedges and lipstick. A few details like a fringe bag and pops of jewelry made this look perfect for a casual day at work, and would have transitioned to evening drinks as well. The color palette is clean and the silhouette streamlined for an overall easy and pleasing look. 

By the way, this tee is SO soft and cozy, I've been pairing with so many different bottoms lately. Everything from casual jeans or shorts with a necklace for running errands or walking in the park (see my Instagram) to nicer skirts like the one I wore here, it is a nice loose fit that works with so much. New fave for sure!! 

Tee: Michael Stars. Skirt: H&M (very similar). Bag: Rebecca Minkoff. Shoes: Ruche (1/2). Bracelet: Kate Spade. Ring: Jeanne Ruland Jewelry. Necklace: BaubleBar.

xoxo CC

Criss-Cross

Back in April when I was eagerly anticipating some warmer weather I found this rose-printed dress (and this romper) on shopruche.com, and somehow this is the first time I've worn the dress! It definitely requires hot weather with the open back and all, so it pairs perfectly with sandals and sunglasses. The crisscrossing straps add a trendy detail to an otherwise sweet and delicate dress. I really love the soft pastels in the watercolor roses, which happened to match just perfectly with my nail color! 

Dress: Ruche. Bag: Rebecca Minkoff. Ring: Jeanne Ruland Jewelry. Shoes: Splendid. Nails: Essie "Play Date."

xoxo, CC

Spring Is In The Air

Braids, Buns, and Twists Book: Ruche. Talk is Chic notebook: Kate Spade. Pearl Ring: BaubleBar. Romper: Yumi Kim. Scarf: Kate Spade. Fringe Bag: Rebecca Minkoff. Lipstick: M.A.C Sushi Kiss. iPhone case: Kate Spade.

I am SO ready for spring. Fun florals, new 'dos, coral lips, and playful accessories are on my radar as we start to see a little warmer weather. It's a great time to make a bright statement!

What's on your spring wishlist?

xoxo, CC