grunge and glam and my belly button's debut

 

jacket: gap

jeans: juicy couture-Second Time Arond Chicago, IL

polka dot bodysuit: kate young for target

black sleeveless sweater: tj maxx

boots: ugg australia

necklace: h&m

beanie: h&m

sunglasses: target

I've never been one to leave the house without something shiny, glittery, or statement-making (mediocre is the death of me). I've also never been one to leave the house baring my midriff. I think mine is a more sophisticated take on the crop top trend (even though it's still full on abdomen, belly button and all), with the sheer overlay of  fabric and polka dots.

The psychedelic/reptilian fish scaly beanie has been a hit on the streets, too. I've never gotten more compliments on a $5 item in my life. It is pretty cool, though. I've been wearing it so much I should probably invest in another.

lions, tigers, bears......

Happy Halloween from a lion, tiger, and a bear!

....Oh my!

texture and plaid for family portrait session

I love to play around with different textures and prints; It makes photos look more interesting. I have an upcoming fall/winter portrait session for a family from my hometown, and I put this collage together for them so they can get an idea of my vision for what they should wear. It's important that I keep in mind the families' sense of style. After all, my goal is to capture their true essence and personalities in the photographs.

The family has a classic, outdoorsy flair. Rich textures like leather and fur will be great for them. I incorporated plaid because it's such a great print, and also happens to be very big for fall (isn't it always?). Mixing different plaids as well as stripes of a similar color family will add depth to the outfits, and so will layering. I always love accents of metallic either in belts, boots, or necklaces; An outfit isn't complete without some shine and sparkle! Oh, and that little leopard ballet flat in there was not an accident; I consider leopard a neutral! :)

The guys can use this collage as well when putting their outfits together. Just think J. Crew!

Texture and Plaid by glamguru featuring a metal belt

ASOS cotton dress
asos.com

J Crew cashmere striped sweater
jcrew.com

J Crew long blouse
jcrew.com

Zara plaid top
zara.com

J Crew striped t shirt
jcrew.com

Zara shirt
zara.com

Camilla and Marc vest waistcoat
$450 - theoutnet.com

BSABLE brown vest
farfetch.com

Zara black cape
zara.com

Zara red coat
zara.com

French Connection vest
usa.frenchconnection.com

Zara lined jacket
zara.com

Zara fur vest
zara.com

J.Crew j crew jeans
jcrew.com

Zara trousers
zara.com

UGG Australia military-style boots
zappos.com

J Crew flat
jcrew.com

J.Crew ankle boots
jcrew.com

Zara leather high heel shoes
zara.com

Zara short boots
zara.com

ASOS brown handbag
asos.com

ASOS curb link chain necklace
asos.com

Zara rhinestone jewelry
zara.com

Zara woolen scarve
zara.com

Banana Republic black shawl
bananarepublic.gap.com

Zara blue shawl
zara.com

ASOS metal belt
asos.com

Banana Republic Heritage Plaid Wool Scarf - Navy
bananarepublic.gap.com

Banana Republic Heritage Plaid Wool Scarf - Grey
bananarepublic.gap.com

for fall: shine + slick

earring: zara

one shoulder top: the limited

awesome slicked hair: garnier fructis clean slick power gel and paul mitchell freeze and shine hairspray

I'm very into greased back hair lately. It immediately makes you feel sleeker and chicer. I got my sister Bri into it, too and she's rocking it in these photos with her stunning Zara earring! Great hairstyle for serious ear-bling.

denim on my mind