Skater Skirt

We've been fortunate enough up here in Boston for a few more 60 degree days before we are blanketed with tomorrow's nor'easter.  I took this warm weather opportunity to share this faux leather skirt styled completely differently than last Friday's post.  I love the juxtaposition of the crisp formal bow top over the edgy faux leather pleated skater skirt.  I threw on basic black pumps and simple accessories to keep this look minimal.  

What do you think?  Let me know in the comment section below.  

OUTFIT DETAILS 

skirt: via Lord & Taylor, similar here  //  blouse: Lord & Taylor (old), similar here and here, black bow option here  //  heels: Enzo Angiolini Fayson Pumps (seen here)  //  purse: Tory Burch Cross-body (styled as a clutch), similar here  //  shades: Ray Ban Aviators black-on-black 

LINK UPS

Tuesday: Style Elixir 

Faux Leather Friday

Photos by Cory Gans

Hey Gurl, Hey! I spent last Saturday hanging out with my good (and talented) friend Cory.  After he gave me lots of great camera and photo editing tips (that I can't wait to experiment with!), we explored the beautiful neighborhood of Beacon Hill and snapped photos as we meandered.  I wore this super comfy over-sized black sweater over my new favorite skirt, black tights and moto booties (very comfortable).  The contrast of  the faux leather against the soft cotton black sweater makes this mono-chromatic look a bit less dramatic.  Overall I went with a very edgy vibe, different than my normal everyday looks.  And as Cory boldly pointed out: "not Beacon Hill like at all".  Gotta have some fun with it!      

Alright kids, have a fabulous weekend!  I'm planning on hitting up some pre-black Friday sales!  

OUTFIT DETAILS 

skirt: via Lord & Taylor, similar here, LOVE this fringe skirt //  sweater: Michael Kors, similar, last seen here  //  boots: Circus by Sam Edelman Holt Ankle Boot  //  tights: Merona Opaque tights via Target  //  purse: Michael Kors, similar  //  shades: Ray Ban Avaitors black-on-black

LINK UPS

Pumps and Pushups  //  Style Elixir  //  Jo-Lynn Shane  //  The Pleated Poppy  //
 Cappuccino and Fashion  //  Penniless Socialite  //  On the Daily Express  //
More Pieces of Me  //  The Fashion Canvas

Holiday Gift Guide

With Black Friday right around the corner, the time has come to start thinking about Holiday Gifts.  Above, I've put together 16 fabulous gift ideas under $50 each, with the exception of an adorable Kate Spade Bluetooth Speaker - a must have.  I hope this post provides you a bit of inspiration this Holiday Season!  

For the men in your life, check out the new TOMs for Target collection here.
For friends + co-workers, I love what the Paper Source has to offer, shop gifts here.
For my mom + my sister, Kate Spade is my go-to, here.
For other family members or in-laws, you can't go wrong with under $50 home items, here.  
Or find personalized items here from Plow & Hearth.

1.   Nail Polish Set  --  $28

2.   Faux Fur Throw Blanket  --  $35
3.   Espresso Cups  --  $42
4.   Blanket Scarf  --  $50
5.   Kate Spade Bluetooth Speaker  --  $60
6.   TOMs for Target Jar Candle with Wood Box  --  $15
7.   Kate Spade Thermal Mug  --  $18
8.   Peace Joy Love Coasters  --  $7
9.   What's A Hostess to Do? Entertaining Guide  --  $18
10.  Kate Spade Champagne Tote  --  $28
11.  Moscow Mule Mug Set  --  monogramming available  --  $36 (on sale!)
12.  TOMS for Target Faux Leather Journal  --  $18
13.  Welly Socks  --  $45

14.  Gingerbread Ornament  --  $25
15.  Tech Gloves  --  $45
16.  Slippers  --  $39


Linking up to Friday's Fab Favorites: here

Plaid + Pumps

I took total advantage of today's 60 degree weather + threw on this plaid high-low shirtdress.  I added white pumps to pull out the white grid lines of the dress, while keeping accessories to a minimum.  Pretty soon I'll be forced to wear this dress with tights or leggings, and plenty of layers...  I'm actually looking forward to how I will style it next.  Happy Veteran's Day!  

Don't mind the wind-blown hair: it was quite windy today! 

OUTFIT DETAILS 

dress: GAP Plaid Shirtdress (now on sale)  //  heels: French Connection 'Ellis' Pumps, grey suede here , other colors here  //  purse: Clare V. Foldover  //  shades: Ray Ban

Lipstick through Latttes

If you read my blog frequently, you have probably noticed that I am a lipstick connoisseur.  I love experimenting with new colors + brands.  I typically gravitate towards plum colors, but occasionally I will dabble with vivid brights or buff tones.  Above all, I'm always looking for a color that will last, and last all day, from my morning latte to an afternoon snack.  I've tried countless brands.  So today, I'm sharing my favorites, from long-wear lines to deep finishes and bright hues.  

1.  Covergirl: Lip Perfection #307 "Seduce" // a long-lasting red, finally // $

2.  Sephora Collection: Color Reveal Lip Balm // my go-to for a little shine when running errands // $

3.  Maybelline: Super Stay 14 Hour #075 "Timeless Crimson" // long lasting deep red // $

4.  Sephora + Pantone Universe "Radiant Orchard" // bright pink 'cause every girl needs pink // $$

5.  Yves Saint Laurent: Rouge Pur Couture #62 // soft, smooth + the perfect plum shade // $$$

6.  Lancome: Rogue in Love #391 "Fiery Attitude" // bright, yet rich in color, lasts 6 hours // $$

7.  Maybelline: Super Stay 14 Hour #020 "Eternal Rose" // long lasting pink // $

8.  Bobbi Brown: Creamy Matte Lip Color #3 "Crushed Plum" // deep color and full coverage // $$ 

9.  Maybelline: Super Stay 14 Hour "Infinite Iris" // my go-to for casual all-day wear // $

10.  MAC "Flat Out Fabulous"  // for the perfect pink lip // $$

11.  Maybelline: Super Stay 14 Hour "Please Stay Plum" // my go-to for all-day dramatic color // $

12.  Yves Saint Laurent: Rouge Volupte // rich color, use with Lip Liner // $$$

The lipsticks mentioned can be found at various retailers: Target, CVS, Ulta, Sephora, Lord and Taylor, MAC, Macy's and Nordstrom. 

My most worn is #11 - Maybelline Super Stay 14 Hour in "Please Stay Plum".  I think I've tried nearly every shade in the line, and this is by far my favorite.  I recently introduced my aunt to the color - we both love it and wear it daily.  What are your favorite brands, colors, etc?  I'd love to hear.  

Save the Date Postcards

Today, I'm sharing something a bit different, my blueprint if you will.  I designed and created these custom postcard superhero "save the dates" for Amy and Phil.  

Isn't it amazing that Amy & Phil both had (and could find) their superhero costume pictures from when they were kids?  Very unique and very memorable.  Can't wait to work further on their wedding suite..  

For inquiries, please contact me kristy@style-blueprint.com 

Outfits Lately via Instagram

{ black + white on black & white } 

top: Free People last seen here  //  jacket: h&m   //  pants: loft moto skinny pant in zoe fit  

{ feeling very fall today in an oversized sweater, destroyed denim & ankle booties }

jeans: Hudson, seen here  //  sweater: Michael Kors, seen here

{ fur fall }

dress: J.Crew Factory  //  fur vest: Forever 21

{ #ootd }

sweater: vintage havana  //  jeans: topshop x nordstrom 'Jamie' jeans

{ blue suede shoes + wedding blooms }

top: 424 Fifth 'Amour' // heels: Nine West

{ love my custom hanger from Kerry + Jeff }

dress: Betsy Johnson 

{ Saturday stuff: Starbucks & Sephora } 

top: Forever 21 

Black on Green

OUTFIT DETAILS 

top: June & Hudson tunic dress (unavailable) but similar option here  //  jeans: Tinsel, old, similar here  //  boots: Ivanka Trump Sarena Over The Knee Boot, also available here  //  purse: Tory Burch