Pretty in Peplum

Floral peplum top, c/o Sugarlips (sold out, similar here). Lace cardigan, Issi via TJ Maxx. Black BDG Twig High-Rise Jean, Urban Outfitters (on sale!). Mint necklace, Forever 21 (similar). Staten Island clutch in mint, Francesca's. Gold boyfriend watch, Target (similar). Blue t-strap flats, Gap (similar).

     You know those outfits that make you feel like you can take over the world? I'd say this one fits the bill for me. I've been dressing a bit less glamorously lately (not that I'm one for excess anyways) in an effort to let my clothes reflect my life. However, I instantly felt put together when I paired this lovely, perfect peplum top from Sugarlips with my newly acquired high waisted black BDG jeans. I've worn my regular cut black skinny jeans to death so I was looking for a more unique option.  

     As far as fit goes, I was definitely in between sizes in the jeans. The black fabric is somewhat stiff, so I thought I was going to have to size up. The zipper on the size I got, a 24, is a little bit taught, but as a rule, jeans usually stretch with time. The camel toe area (is there anything less glam than detailing this area?) was too big on the 25, though, so I decided to go for the snugger fit as it fit better all around. I'm so excited to channel some serious retro pin up vibes donning the babies with crop tops, and well everything else, this summer. I looked into American Apparel's Easy Jean and I'm still considering snagging a pair of these as well. What are your experiences with high waisted jeans?

Stripes in the City

Dress, Manteau (Marshall's). Cardigan, Issi (TJ Maxx). Red patent belt, Forever 21. Vintage Dooney & Bourke purse. Black wrap watch, La Mer Wanderlust collection. Black buckle flats, Coach. 

     The serenity of nature always brings me peace; but there is nothing compared to the energy of a city. Even a smaller city like Knoxville feels electric to me. There's something about urban sights and amenities that makes me imagine my future life, strolling downtown somewhere fabulous. Before classes for spring semester started (we have one class during the month of January; it's called a "J-Term"), Patrick and I spent a particularly warm day exploring downtown Knoxville. I went into several stores that I discovered that day, saw a sign that both an Urban Outfitters AND an Anthropologie are opening soon, ate in one of my all time favorite restaurants, and generally just enjoyed the vibe. 

     My outfit was essentially just a functional, warmer weather uniform. Flats, a dress, and a cardigan is a pretty basic combination, but I enjoyed playing with patterns and textures nonetheless. I find it doesn't really matter how simple an outfit seems as long as there are standout details that make even basic pieces feel special. That is the philosophy I've been employing in my purchases and ensembles lately and I can't wait to see where it leads me.

     Another great philosophy that I totally abide by was displayed outside of one of my favorite stores downtown, räla. I love going in this art based store for great tees as well as art prints and postcards. To see more of the stores I visited that day, stay tuned for my post on some shops in Knoxville later today!

Lace and Layers

Utility coat, Target (last year's style). Lace shirt, Gianni Bini. Black and white lace skirt, Altar'd State (similar). White tights, Target. Manor Maryjane flats in beige, Marias USA. Pashmina scarf, World Market. Woven leather belt, thrifted.

     While bitterly cold days are often hard to manage when it comes to photographing outfits, I can usually still find some beauty in them. My hands ache so that only the car heater on full blast can thaw them out. My nose will sometimes get red and start dripping relentlessly. But I'm capturing the spirit of the season. I'll never be a shut in, even during the coldest months, because that would compromise my sense of adventure. Without the cold weather, I wouldn't be able to capture the moments below and then enjoy a steaming cup of hot chocolate in a hand decorated mug. I may have to remind myself of how much I love these little things next time I'm hating all the tights I own and just wanting to show some leg. But I think I can stay positive if it means more great memories to come.