what she's lovin': {P}Leather Please

Jenn here again, with another post dedicated to fall fashion favorites.

For those of us who love leather, or the animal and budget-friendly pleather (coined "vegan leather") - we are in luck because leather detailing continues to be a HUGE trend this fall!  Not only reserved for bikers, leather can be worn both casually and dressed-up as well as for weekend and work wear.  Both a leather accent or an entire piece in the material can make a big impact - particularly when paired with fall's cozy textures like tweed, boucle, brocade or even plaid.  Below you will find a few of my favorite pieces (I actually own a couple) and I have included options for making either a subtle or a bold statement. Enjoy!

Knit Pants

{leggings}

I just bought these pants! I will be dressing them down with an over-sized sweater, layered necklaces and my sneaker wedges for a play date (or brunch) or dressing them up with a silky tee, clutch and suede pointy-toe pumps for a nice dinner.  My only caution is to leave the leather jacket at home...unless you're headed out to a biker party!  Pleather pants too bold? 
Try a more subtle tuxedo pant like these. 

Tees

{shirt}

I recently got this tee at the Queen Anne Dispatch, my favorite neighborhood boutique. I can't wait to add a pair of distressed jeans and ballet flats for a look that is a mix of edgy and demure. Or, pair with this summer's track pants add a heeled bootie and you're ready for a night out!

For a more subtle accent, try a military-style appellate on a basic tee like this one. 

Dresses

{dress}

The high neckline and knee-length hem of this sheath dress make it an easy choice for the office when paired with opaque tights and a classic pump.  However, you can also take this dress out by losing the tights and adding a statement necklace and peep-toe booties.

For a bolder statement, this entire leather dress in a classic shape is both sophisticated and fashion-forward. 

Jackets/Coats

{jacket}

I love the leather sleeves paired with a traditional plaid, toggle duffle coat.  This coat can make a conservative outfit more casual or, conversely, elevate your standard jeans and wellies.

Finally ready for a leather jacket?  
I love the drape of this one (I've tried it on - it's a beauty!). 

Skirts 

{skirt}

The flippy skirt is a huge fall trend; the heavier weight of the leather makes this skirt an interesting mix between flirty and chic. Wear to the office with tights and a tucked-in blouse buttoned all the way up or pair with a jeweled sweatshirt (also big for fall) and a casual bootie for after hours wear.
The chevron tweed on this skirt makes it all business in the front and a party in the back. 

I have posted all of these selections on Pinterest - follow me at Lovin_styling.  

Also, stay tuned as Kirsty and I plan to each style a leather piece in our own unique way - it should be a fun one! Thanks for reading and I look forward to crafting another installment soon!

-Jenn

finding my fall...in a blazer resurrected and boston ivy {what i wore}

I often times think I can take an outdated piece of clothing and alter it to make it more current.  more often than not this is a bad idea.  I am starting to realize I am only capable of minor nips and tucks, the rest needs to be left to a professional.  enter this blazer.  it has been in the I loved this but its just not quite right what can I do with it pile for a few years.  boy am I glad I never got around to changing it or giving it away.  I'm so happy with its style, pintucked shoulders and 3/4 sleeves, and finally peplum in my closet.  funny how often styles cycle through.  in fact, look at how similar this one on sale is.  I feel victorious! 

my outfit was inspired by this pin, with a lighter california still sweating twist.  although I heart the plaid, albeit heavy, moto jacket so.

and do you see the beautiful boston ivy letting its autumn colors shine!  this is my neighbors house.  in fact, two of my neighbors have it.  I will have autumn even in southern california!

top - Nordstrom

blazer - old but this one is very similar. {and on sale.}

jeans - 7 for all Mankind, Hautelook.com {great place to score designer jeans on sale.}

Boots - Anthropologie

necklaces - Lucia K. Jewelry Blake {and Christine in mint, coming soon}

linking up with pleated poppy for what i wore wednesday.

happy wednesday.

best,

kirsty

just tracking....{what i wore}

first lets talk about this necklace, it started as a special order {and then I made a second for myself}.  its the francine necklace made with green turquoise instead of black onyx.  here's the thing, this necklace is un-assuming and seemingly plain, but it works so well with simple outfits, and you can double it up for a shorter look.  its looped so you can mess with it and mix it up so well.  and its a great price point.  

and my track pants.  and my sandals.  a match made in heaven don't you think.  I just keep reaching for these pants.  next up...bulky sweaters and booties.  

tank - oldie from J. Crew

track pants - Nordstrom {same pant, different color on sale, just bought!}

shoes - Ella Moss {on sale!  and love this website because if shows a video for each item}

necklace - Lucia K. Francine

earrings - Lucia K. Tag

linking up with pleated poppy for what i wore wednesday.

happy wednesday.

best,

kirsty

the bar method {what I love}

so keeping with the theme of booties from the last two posts - now I am talking booty. as in your backside.  specifically the beauty of Bar Method

originally i went to the Seattle-Eastside Bar Method Studio, with the intent to go for two months and jump start getting into shape.  after 3.5 years straight of being pregnant or breastfeeding, it was time.  now or never.   taking advantage of the new client first month special, and a free month I had won at an auction, I thought I can stick this out for two months and be done.  that was a over a year ago.



So yes, I love it.  background - this coming from a girl who hasn't worked out regularly in her life.  always thought endorphins were a myth.  I really don't like to sweat.  recently bought my first pair of tennis shoes in over ten years.  correction - actually I bought them a year ago, just broke them in during our move.

here are my top 14 reasons why I love Bar Method, because I couldn't narrow it down to 10.

1. its super efficient - I go on average 3x a week.  you work your muscles intensely and quickly.  I don't have time or the attention span for long workouts.  1 hour including stretching.

2. its beautiful - long graceful lines and techniques, with instructors who give you personal attention every single class.

3. long and lean - my legs are fierce and my backside is so happy.  my arms and shoulders are sculpted.  stretching is incorporated throughout the workout to keep your muscles lengthened.  somehow it keeps you from bulking up, your muscles become toned and long and lean.  I swear.

4. the studio mimics a spa.  its gorgeous.  the Seattle and Redmond studios are gorgeously decorated, and impeccably clean.  no detail is overlooked.  glassy baby candles are perfectly placed.  the owners Maika, Bev, and Luke, as well as the other instructors, are always warm and welcoming.

5. you always workout to fabulous tunes.

6. no shoes - just comfy socks.

7. you get to pretend you are a ballerina, for a few graceful moments while stretching at the barre.

8. the better you get at bar - the harder it gets.  the better you get at the technique, the harder and deeper you can work your muscles.  there is no plateau.  you just get lower and keep tucking.

9. you have to deep breathe.  hello, how often throughout the day do I forget to breathe.  for real.  it clears your head.

10. I have abs muscles.  a core.  legit.  never thought after two kids that my stomach would be more tone that it has ever been.

11. my butt.  did I mention my backside yet?  I had previously resolved that my backside would always be as it was, my never changing problem area.  but dare I say its smaller, peppier, happier, toned.

12. it is completely therapeutic in my state of constant chaos.  I have an endorphin rush and I am invigorated after a workout.  and sore.  who knew?!

13.  back dancing.

14. I. Love. Food.  {if you follow me on instagram you already know this}  but especially dessert - baked goods, french pastries and good cheese and cooking with butter.  and chocolate forever.  these will always be a part of my life.

so somehow Bar Method tricks me into an amazing workout.  when I found out we were moving, one of the first things I did was search for the nearest studio, thankfully there was one.  at this stage of the game - health, strength, and energy are very important to me to live a fuller life and keep up with my young boys,  and to feel better about myself.

so what are you waiting for?  get your tuck on.  if you want to try a class for free {in Seattle or Redmond}, email me and I will send you the info.

happy Monday.

best,
kirsty

in the bootie spirit {what i wore}

in the spirit of mondays post, I'm bringing out the booties.  except its still blazing hot here, so no slouchy sweaters yet.

this necklace is part of the original vision of Lucia K.  it completely reminds me of my childhood, and my mom.  it was in my head long before I made it.  sitting in their living room, in their super squishy recliner-rocking chair {what a combo!} next to the best hanging macrame table.  its a long macrame'ed strand of frayed silk ribbon and fire polished crystal.  what i wouldn't give to go home to those moments.  or to give those I love the chance for the same.  thinking about those today who lost someone 12 years ago, or any day.  life.

and what about these booties.  I have a few on my wish list but until then its these.  a bit of a sandal.  perfect heel height, because I want a little height but not so much that i have to think about wearing them, right?  a balance of rustic and worn, I will always be a bit of a country girl at heart.  but not too clunky chunky.  and finally, a flattering cut on the ankle {my biggest issue with booties}.  these will happen with some chunky wool socks later.    

dress - oldie from Anthro

booties - Anthropologie

necklace - Lucia K. Nora

linking up with pleated poppy for what i wore wednesday.

happy wednesday.

best,
kirsty

what she's lovin': all about the bootie {guest post}

you may recall I often refer to my Jenn.the.stylist friend when talking styling or my favorite looks.  well, I have talked her into doing some guest posts on her favorite pieces of the season.  

I would also like to point out that if you live in the Seattle area and have ever dreamed of having a stylist help you design your wardrobe, organize your closet, help you with that special look for an upcoming event, you should probably contact Jenn.  she has a great eye and will help you get so many miles out of what you own and help you fill in the blanks.  and even though she has been styling herself and her friends and family her entire life, she is now launching a business.  so she is affordable for a limited time.

ok, I'm done.  here's Jenn:

Have I got your attention?! One could easily have mistaken this post to be about any number of topics because I do believe that there are many things in life that are "all about the bootie."  With regards to fashion (and keeping this post strictly PG), I could be referring to jeans, swimwear, or panty lines (even workouts) but instead I have devoted this correspondence to tall boots' more petite cousin which have become a year-around mainstay in fashion today...

simply put: the bootie.  

Booties have become so popular in recent years that they now earn their own category as you search shoes on popular websites.  From heels to flats, booties are being paired with anything from jeans to slim trousers, cut-offs to dresses all year-long.  

Before introducing you to a few of my favorites this year; let me first make a compelling case for the bootie, as you may be asking, "why, how??"  The bootie can be just as versatile and a little more edgy than the classic tall boot.  In particular, I like that you can cuff your pants or wear an ankle-length hem and still show a hint of skin or, with a lower cut version, you can easily pair booties with skirts or dresses for a fun alternative to classic pumps.  Just like with any boot, there are casual to dressy versions of the bootie for every occasion...really.  Let me prove it:

Casual

{Lakota Bootie}

These are the quintessential bootie, a real no-brainer.  Perfectly paired with casual pants: jeans (of course) or...even the coveted track pants.  In particular, I like the smoke gray because it can be worn with black, gray, brown, navy or really any neutral AND suede is such a great material as you transition your wardrobe for fall (to note - I wear suede year-round because I love it!)  I also really like how the cut of this pair dips in front of the ankle, showing a little more skin - super flattering with a cuffed jean, cropped pant or even a skirt.

Splurge-worthy: 

{Harrow Bootie}

I finally own a pair of Rag & Bone booties!  Not to rub it in, but I took the proverbial plunge during the Nordstrom Anniversary sale and have been biding my time (no pun intended) until cooler temps allow me to exchange my sandals for these.  I have been eying R&B booties for a couple of years now - the Newbury bootie has been a celebrity and stylist favorite.  This year they lowered the shaft and added the sweetheart detail as well as the straps and tonal piping to make the Harrow.  

I'm imagining myself pairing these with skinnies and an over-sized sweater like pictured above. or dressing them up with a silky tee and leather jacket for a night out.  Given the investment, I am going to be wearing these day in and day out!

Classic: 

{Aerin Bootie}

These are the perfect bootie for work and play; easily transitioning from day to night wear.  Fabulous with jeans and ankle-length, tailored pants as well as pencil skirts and dresses.  This particular pair is cut low in the shaft (really just covering the foot); therefore, exposing the ankle bone and making them extremely versatile and flattering on most everyone. Trade these for your standard pumps and your instantly updated for fall!

Military-styling

{Sargent Lace-up Boot}

They're back...Doc Martin style, lace-up booties are everywhere this fall.  Resist the "teen-spirit" and stay clear of flannel paired with crop tops (more trends for fall).  Instead, go for a more demure pairing such as leggings with a cashmere boyfriend sweater or a structured jacket. Add luxe accessories to keep the look sophisticated rather than grunge.  I chose this particular pair because I like the laces with the buckle detailing and the zipper in the back adds interest as well as ease (who really wants to actually lace up the boot?).

Peep-toe 

{Rocknrol Bootie}

There are so many great peep-toe bootie options available, many with lace-up details or cut-outs.  I like these because they are a great price point for a more trendy style of bootie.  

These are perfect for a night-out, paired with a special top and dangly earrings or a silky pant and a clutch.  Just remember that a fresh pedicure may be the best accessory given that these highlight both the heels and toes!

Western-inspired  

{Mezcal Boot}

Not a subtle western; these are more El Paso than Dallas, so stay clear of pairing with plaid shirts, cowboy hats or overalls.  I have a pair of Free Bird boots and I absolutely love the intricate and unique details that make them special.  I would wear these stylized booties with skinnies and long layers, such as a long cardigan over a stripped tee.  Clearly these boots will elevate the most simple of outfits.

Fierce  

{Aiden High Heel}

Not for wall-flowers, these booties are "single-lady" worthy (I'm sure Beyonce must own a similar pair!). I love the neutral color, which is more subtle than a black cage bootie.  Dresses? Yes, please!  But also a pair of jeans and a blazer - have fun wearing these booties with a more conservative outfit and let your footwear be the spotlight.

Biker

{Levy Biker Boots}

Show some skin with these low-cut biker boots.  I'm imagining these with a pair of distressed boyfriend jeans and a sweater.  Or really throw caution to the wind; have fun mixing styles and adding some edge to a more girlie dress and over-sized cardi combo.  These would even play well under a more boot-cut pant with the biker details peeking out only when you sit down.  A true '90's throw-back, in the best kind of way!

Let me know which bootie is your favorite and how you are wearing your pair.  And please keep the feedback coming!  Also feel free to share with your fashion-forward, bootie-loving friends.  

Kind regards,

Jenn

Follow us both on Pinterest - Jenn & Kirsty for favorite bootie choices and looks.  

Thanks Jenn!

distressed denim {a DIY}

there really isn't much to share in the DIY part of distressing denim.  just a quickie to maybe help you take that plunge to join the distressed trend without having to spend a fortune.

{seriously I love and by love I mean love the distressed denim trend, always have.  but over 200$ a pop.  goodness.  something about the handmade technique they say.  do you remember when denim over 100$ felt crazy.  I remember buying my first pair of sevens for 125$ about a decade ago, it was shocking.  back to the DIY.}

I started with these jeans - bought for 10$ at HM with the vision to destroy them.  just in case it didn't work out I would only be out 10$ and my pride.

tools needed:
1. jeans -  i think a thicker denim works best, 100% cotton preferably.
2. chalk
3. small piece of cardboard
4. box knife {or razor or scissors, I just happen to have a quite a few box knives that I am quite skilled with}
5. cardboard fingernail file {or sand paper}
6. washing machine.

step 1 - while wearing your jeans, mark with chalk where you want to distress.  I think this gives you the most realistic look, and a great guideline.  this also works well when making cutoffs, I also cut them into bermuda length.  also, don't forget the backside, especially the pockets.

step 2 - put the cardboard in your pant leg underneath where you are going to distress.

step 3 - start scoring with your box knife, I think quick horizontal motions are the best, and most stress relieving.  depending on your distress {and stress} level, you will want some to break through and some just to scratch.

step 4 - use the file to sand the areas you just scored, or other areas you where you want to lighten the denim.

step 5 - repeat until complete.

step 6 - wash.

step 7 - done.  or if you want more distress do it again, you can always increase the distressed-ness so start out on the lesser end maybe.  I might add a bit more to these, or just let natural wear and tear take over at this point.

shirt - free people. wedges - tory burch.  earrings - Lucia K. 

here's a tutorial & video from the experts.

happy thursday.

best,
kirsty

rust in lace {what i wore}

this outfit makes me happy on many many levels.

this shirt.  rust is so lovely right?  and stripes on front, lace in back, the lovely shoulder slouch.  oh its good.  since its still summer, add in distressed {by me} bermuda denim shorts but come fall some skinny jeans and these booties.  plus there is that extra length in the back without being bulky, so if you are having a self conscious day, its gives you a nice little cover up on the behind. and its on sale.  for real.

my shoes, {on sale here!} a little wedge, a little espadrille, a little metallic sparkle, a little peep-toe.  they are just dang great.  I love them because they give you height without really having to go for it right?  and the metallic color dresses up an outfit while the rope detail keeps it from being too stuffy. 

and maybe last but not least my swarovski crystal taylor earrings. and yes, not to be left out, also on sale!  ruby red swarovski crystal are always the right choice.  add in matte gold chain, this chain drapes so well, it is one of my favorite chains, with tiny double links.  the matte gold makes it feel a little bit like an heirloom.

shirt - Free People, Queen Anne Dispatch.  also here {sale.} 

shorts - H&M {distressed and cut off by me}

shoes - Tory Burch {sale.}

earrings - Lucia K. Jewelry Taylor Earrings. {and sale.}

scoring something I really want on sale makes me so dang happy.  you?

linking up with pleated poppy for what i wore wednesday.

happy wednesday.

best,

kirsty