There are some women who are known for having too many purses. There are some who have only leggings instead of jeans. There are women with coats for every occasion. I am the woman with “too many shoes”. I write that in quotations, because you can never have too many shoes. Okay, you can BUT think of all the places that you go to during the week. Think about the statements you’re trying to make with your outfits. There are some women who can get out of bed and pick out the same type of outfit the day before, because that’s who they are. But for me, I have an eclectic style. One day I can be the sweet cottagecore vibe, and the next I want to be wearing combat boots with my leather jacket. My style ranges from many different…. genres, if you will and because of that, I “need” a lot of shoes. Shoes complete the outfit, and are the finishing touch when walking into a room. In fact they can be the first statement if you’re wearing heals, because you can be heard before being seen! Here are a list of the shoes I’m wearing this season, and the ones I’m desperately wanting to add to my wardrobe!
Combat boots are so versatile! From the get go, these shoes scream grunge (because they are), and can be paired perfectly with skinny jeans. They give an authoritative boss woman vibe BUT they can also have a soft gentle touch. To give these boots a gentler more feminine vibe, I pair them with a maxi or midi skirt! I honestly can’t believe how functional these boots are and I can’t recommend them enough! These should be a number one item in your shoe closet!
CHELSEA BOOTS:
Though these are very similar to the combat boots, the difference about Chelsea boots would be the variety of heel height this shoe offers. And by that I mean that Chelsea boots can have a smaller heel, medium, or taller like this one. I don’t have Chelsea boots in my closet yet, but I am looking to add them in very shortly. I fell in love with the heel on this one (even though I can barely walk in heels). I can see these with a dark wash denim or black skinny jeans. Walking in these might not be a cakewalk (especially for the clumsy like me), but I can confidently say that you’d look like such a bad ass in them. These shoes scream confidence to me. These Chelsea boots have a much smaller heel and I am looking to get these for the end of fall/winter season transition. I think that these would be durable for the snowy weather, while still being trendy.
MULES:
Next to the combat boots, I’ve worn these mules so much. I’ll be honest and say that I’ve purchased 4 different pairs of mules until I finally found these ones and fell in love with them. I prefer the rounder toe look, with the gold embellishment to help me look more fancy lol. These shoes scream “preppy”, and I love to wear them with my boyfriend jeans and blazer. I feel very classy and chic when wearing them!
MULE CLOGS:
I was on the hunt for these! These shoes have the perfect heel, and are still very comfortable to wear. I love the warm cognac color of them and that they’re suede. I’ve received so many compliments when wearing these. They’re a bold piece in my shoe collection and make me feel more grown up and taller. I like to wear these with a floral maxi, skinny jeans, or denim culottes!
OXFORD FLATS:
Though I haven’t seen a lot of these flats this 2020 fall season. it is undeniable that these are a timeless piece in your closet. I emphasize timeless because if you look at footwear even 100 years ago, these were in. But oxfords are a simple and classic staple to add to your wardrobe. Even though oxfords are for men’s footwear as well, they have a feminine touch and bring about a scholarly vibe to any closet.
WHITE SNEAKS:
I know you’re thinking, white? Yes, white! They make your outfit pop, and give your look a nice clean slate! I would recommend white converse whether they be high top or just the chuck taylors. These are not a shoe that I recommend wearing daily, but rather for special occasions. I specifically like wearing these with maxi/midi skirts!
BLOCK HEEL BOOTIES:
I LOVE the neutral color of these as well as the build of them! This season, block heeled booties are in and I’m here for them! These are a bold statement because of the neutral color of them. I’ve seen these heels paired with flowy maxi skirts and chunky sweaters, as well as mom jeans and skinny jeans! I am looking to add a pair of these to my wardrobe as well! If you want to go even more bolder, get a white pair!
OVER THE KNEE SUEDE BOOTS:
Though these are not in my wardrobe, nor are they my preference because of my short petite figure, these boots have been everywhere! These are a trendy statement to have in your wardrobe and I’ve seen them worn with mini skirts, leather jeggings, or skinny jeans as well. They are undeniably fashionable and aesthetically pleasing. These boots create a tall slimming allusion and make your legs look like they could go for miles! These boots can have a tall or flat heel as well. I prefer to not wear these because these boots feel restricting on me, but that is again, just my preference!
TEXTURES AND PATTERNS TO ADD:
-Snake print
-Animal print (leopard/cheeta)
-Fringe
There’s the “small” list of footwear I own and recommend! What are some shoes that you currently own and love to wear? How do you prefer to style them?
Fall- A season that is unquestionably loved and enjoyed by many. There’s something about the beauty of this season such as the crisp leaves and crisp air that seems to change overnight. There is the comfort of cozying up and layering in your favorite sweaters and cardigan. I might be biased, but I can confidently say that New England is the most glorious and beautiful in the fall. The leaves are so vibrant from the White Mountains to the quintessential Colonial homes. This season is so different for many, but it gives me all the cozy and homey feels. Some of my favorites will always be the same for this season, and you will see which ones. There are also some new things I am trying out that I’ve come to love! So without further ado, here are my favorites for this season!
BEAUTY:
I don’t paint my nails ever to be honest, but this fall season I saw the neutral/caramel/mocha brown nail polish trend and I instantly fell in love! I unfortunately couldn’t find any of the warm brown/mocha colors, but I did find a golden brown as well as a nice taupe neutral! I’m currently wearing the color on the left. I have a love/hate relationship with my hair. Let’s be honest, what girl doesn’t? But the easiest way for me to style it is straightening it. My hair looks longer, and effortless at the same time! So that’s been the favorite for my hair lately. As for my makeup- I’ve discovered the beautiful wonders of brow pencils AND brown/neutral eyeshadow 😱! These two objects have been absolute game changers in my makeup routine. If you couldn’t tell, I’m not much of a makeup guru! 🤣 The items I use aren’t special/ high quality makeup either. They’re just your typical products from the local drugstore!
CLOTHING:
1. You’ve seen my Trench Coat previously, and I will not deny it, but I’ve literally worn it everyday for almost 2 months. My Trench coat is my go to jacket as well as accessory! *Go to my Fall Essentials: Outerwear Edition for a picture reference*
2. Black skinny jeans! They’re perfectly slimming and high waisted. Because of this high inseam, these jeans make my legs look longer for days! There’s just something about black jeans that bring a sleek/ sophisticated look to your wardrobe.
3. Something that can be paired perfectly with these skinny jeans are- CHUNKY KNIT SWEATERS! This is such a staple in every fall wardrobe, and basically a no brainer. My favorite details for chunky sweaters are- Mock neck, waffle knit, the inside out seam, cropped knit cardigans, Pom Pom/popcorn details! All of these are so cute and bring a unique feature to something that seems so simple. My favorite colors for sweaters are neutral colors, so beige, white, ivory/cream, gray, caramel, mocha, and black!
4. SHOES!!! I was debating on making a separate section for this one, but they’re a part of clothing as well!
These babies have been worn the most this season! They’re so easy to put on and make my outfits look chic and professional. I especially love the gold detail on them that helps break up the black. This detail makes the shoe pop and look more expensive than it actually is. These are so versatile and I highly recommend having a pair in your wardrobe! I’ll be honest, I’ve worn these the least BUT when I have worn them, I’ve been complimented on them nonstop! These are mule clogs and I was on the HUNT for these. I love the height of the heel, as well as the warm color of these. I’ve worn these with my black skinny jeans and wow, wow, wow. Not only do these give me the perfect height, but they help elevate my style. They’re simple looking, yet so sophisticated. I’ve also worn these with a flowy floral maxi, and it made my outfit even more chic inspired! Next to the black mules, I’ve worn these combat boots a ton! I’ve actually had these for roughly 5 years. They’re the perfect go to and look oh so cute with high waisted skinnies and a chunky sweater. These boots are very versatile as well and are the perfect blend of practical for N.E. fall weather as well as grunge. These give a nice boost for height and make me feel so much taller, which evidently boosts my confidence!
ACCESSORIES:
As you can see, this necklace is cheaply made, but I love it. I actually don’t really have any jewelry and I honestly need to invest in some solid pieces. But for now, this necklace will do! I appreciate the bar detail and how there is a gold and silver contrast.
BOOKS/ SHOWS:
This book… Oh my. I’m only 4 chapters in, but it’s the book I’ve needed (besides the Bible) for a few years now. It might not be for everyone, but if you’re in a season of shame, or loneliness, this is the perfect “self-help” book!Gilmore Girls- A mother and daughter best friend relationship, taken place in a quintessential New England town featuring quirky characters and genuine life moments. What more can I say about this perfect show? If you don’t know this show, then you must be hiding under a rock. if you haven’t watched a single episode, stop what you’re doing and go watch it now. This show will always be a go to for me, and I especially love watching it in the fall!I took the plunge last fall and started watching this show. It is by far my absolute favorite drama for several of reasons. 1. The historical aspect and how this show starts in the 1940s and then time travels to the 18th Century. 2. Not only the historical setting, but the fact that it takes place in Scotland (my dream travel location). 3. Obviously the dramatic aspect from love, to the suspenseful moments that make the show. This show just has an amazing story line that really pulls you in and keeps you on your toes. I will say this is an adult show and should not be seen by young viewers.
These three are the main ones on my favorite list, but some other favorites of mine are:
Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban (book and movie rendition)
Stranger Things
The Office (but I watch it all year round)
BEVERAGES:
Iced chai oat milk lattes! Soooo yum!
So those are some of my favorites for the fall season! What instantly reminds you of fall or helps you prepare for the fall season? I want to know!
Outerwear, jackets, coats, blazers; all of these things I never considered staples in a wardrobe until a couple of years ago. As the fall season approaches, the temperatures obviously drop and it’s necessary to bundle up. Fall is the perfect time for layering, and outerwear is an ideal way of displaying a cozy look! Here are some staple coats and jackets in my closet for this season!
TRENCH COATS:
This type of coat is a MUST! Trench coats are a classic staple that really elevate your outfit and style. Since these coats are longer, they elongate your body and create the perfect silhouette if tailored correctly. I love that I have a neutral one because it ties in the fall colors as well and it matches the color palette in my wardrobe. I feel that I look older when I wear a trench coat and I get complimented when I do wear it out. This jacket is a quintessential look for a fall rainy day, and gives me Audrey Hepburn vibes. Disclaimer: Don’t mind how wrinkled it is!
DENIM JACKETS:
Denim jackets have a way of giving an urban yet vintage vibe to your wardrobe. Now my jacket isn’t all denim, and it’s not vintage. At some point, I will invest in one, but this will do for now! My jacket is more on the cropped side and isn’t very roomy. This jacket is cute for layering with lighter knit sweaters, not thick sweaters. I think oversized denim jackets are cute when they’re a tad longer and baggier, because you can wear chunky sweaters or hoodies underneath them.
BLAZERS:
This simple piece will be a statement in your wardrobe. Want to have a preppy vibe? Get a blazer! I prefer to bunch up my sleeves so that they’re a half sleeve, so I look more feminine. Blazers can make your outfit look so professional and classy. I like that mine is in the color palette of my wardrobe (warm brown), and that it is tweed! This was a goodwill find!
MOTO JACKET/ LEATHER JACKET:
I looooooove moto jackets! Mine is a suede navy one, and eventually I will invest in a black leather jacket. Moto jackets make your outfit look so grunge and bad-ass (for lack of better words lol). Even though my style is more on the feminine side, there’s another part of me that loves the edgy/ grunge vibe! There are countless ways to style this type of jacket, as it’s so versatile! A couple of ways I like to style this jacket is with a chunky knit turtleneck with high waisted jeans or a midi skirt. The other way I like to style this jacket is with a flowy dress. This example is the perfect contrast between edgy, and feminine and I’m all for it!
ANORAK JACKETS:
Though my jacket has seen better days, you can see that it has been a staple in my closet. This jacket I’ve used for the rainy days and outdoor adventures. What I love most about this piece is the color of it. Olive/forest green has always been in my color palette and really makes your outfit pop. I appreciate the length of this jacket and how roomy it is as well! Though mine could be thicker, I like to layer with a heavier knit sweater underneath.
Out of all the 5 jackets, I would personally invest in a trench coat, a blazer, and a moto/leather jacket!
When building your fall wardrobe, consider how you want to dress when outside. What jacket best suits your personality and style? What piece do you think would elevate your look?
Thrifting shouldn’t necessarily be challenging right? To me, thrifting is like going on a treasure hunt and as they say, “one man’s junk, is another man’s treasure”! Thrifting isn’t a hard task either, but if you don’t have a plan or a guideline, it can become quickly overwhelming! Here are some tips to help you follow your budget and your values when going thrifting!
1. KNOW WHAT YOU WANT
Having a guideline of what you want is a must in order to avoid getting overwhelmed, but also to not purchase things you aren’t in need of. Again, thrifting is like going on a treasure hunt, but it’s definitely easy to get carried away! In order for me to avoid making this mistake, I write down a list of what I’m looking for OR I go to my style board on Pinterest! By doing this, it’s easier for me to visualize what I’m after, and to not be sidetracked! For example, I’m on the hunt for a boho inspired maxi skirt, a chunky white turtleneck, and some tan suede booties. These are all very specific items, but if I know what I want, it will keep me from getting distracted. Below are some images of my Pinterest board to give you an idea!
2. DO I WANT THIS OR DO I NEED THIS?
To continue from point number 1- Sometimes you’re going to come across something that’s not on your list, but you still want it. That’s completely okay! But a major rule of thumb I ask myself is, “Do I want this or do I need this?” Now do I need more clothing? Haha no. But if I have a vision for something that I’m after, and I get sidetracked by something that’s not on my list, I need to give myself this reminder. Sometimes, you have to tell yourself no, and move on. Maybe ask yourself, “do I have something similar in my closet?” “How often would I wear this item?” “Does this represent me and my character/style?” “Is this a timeless piece, or is this something that will not be trendy in a year from now?” That last tip is a perfect tip whether it be thrift shopping or shopping at a department store. I recently thrifted a top that I wouldn’t pick because it’s not in my color pallet (it’s pink lol). But I loved the sleeves, and the detailing on it. I was able to envision this top with high waisted jeans, some jewelry, and a hat and BAM I could not pass it up. Perhaps when considering a piece outside of your list, try envisioning yourself wearing the item and how you’d style it!
3. HAVE A BUDGET
The wonderful thing about thrifting is that you can find these hidden gems for half the price than the retail value at any other store! I personally think it’s so rewarding when you’re able to get more for your buck. When you prioritize certain clothing items as staples in your closet, it then helps you form a capsule wardrobe. For example, I purchased 10 items off of Thredup for $82 bucks! 😱 So awesome! But instead of getting two sweaters that were similar (the neckline was different), I was able to integrate every item and pair them in ways I didn’t even imagine! So instead of going crazy money wise with shopping, set a limit for yourself and make it work for what you have!
4. DON’T LOSE HOPE
I can’t tell you how many times I’ve gone thrifting, and have come back with nothing! But I’ve also gone thrifting and have hit the jackpot with what I’ve found! It’s honestly a hit or miss experience. If you haven’t found the items you’re looking for, look elsewhere! This applies for other items like furniture and home decor as well! I’ve recently become obsessed with Facebook Marketplace (oh is that dangerous haha)! Goodwill is my main location for clothing, and Thredup as well! I have hit the jackpot with Thredup and to be honest, I spend WAY too much time on their website haha! I’ve had mixed reviews about Thredup, but I’ll say it again- if you know what you’re looking for, you won’t be disappointed! With Thredup you’ll have to spend some time searching and scrolling, but search items that you’re looking for or brands that you love to shop from! From there you’ll be able to narrow down your search from your size, to a color pallet, etc! There’s also apps like Mercari, Poshmark, and EBay that I enjoy using!
5. KEEP A PERSONAL LOG OF WHERE TO SHOP FOR WHAT YOU WANT
I learned this tip from best.dressed on YouTube/Instagram. She made a video on thrifting, and she logged which store had the best men’s t-shirts and which store had the best denim, etc. I know for me personally, I have purchased so many pairs of shoes from mercari! I’ve been able to find the style I’m looking for at a quality price! Keep a log, each time you go thrifting and that will help you save time and $. If you have a reference and trusted store for certain items, your golden baby!
Though these tips may not be vital, but they’ve personally helped me when thrifting and planning out my wardrobe! I’ve seen a change in how I shop and plan out my outfits for the seasons, and I hope that you see the change that you want as well with these tips!
I think one of the most stressful things about life is is not knowing what to wear for your day. Add being a mom, with a full time job, and having 20 min. To get ready because you’re in a time crunch….. yea that’s overwhelming. I’m not here to tell you how to manage your priorities when you have little time. I’m here to tell you that having a basic go- to outfit is EVERYTHING! I’m from New England and the weather here flies off the handle, it’s always changing. But from the months of January- March, it’s freezing! Sure I’d love to stay under my covers and wear my pajamas all day BUT I’ve got to work as well. Luckily I work at a job that’s not strict about a dress code. I can wear what I’d like, all within reason. I wore this outfit yesterday, and it took me less than 5 minutes to pick it out. Normally it would take me much longer because I’m always thinking, “I have so much clothing, but no outfits!” You feel me? What woman hasn’t felt this way? Having a basic go to outfit when you don’t know what to wear is vital. Basic doesn’t mean boring. It’s your outfit that represents you and makes you feel confident and comfortable!
So here’s my winter go to outfit: *plain place long sleeve tee tucked into- *American eagle medium wash skinny jeans *tan suede booties from Bass (I’ve had these babies for about 5 years) *Brown teddy bear coat (gifted for Christmas from TJMaxx) And lastly, to add something fun *a yellow knitted headband (gifted for Christmas by my bestie)
What are some staples in your closet that you wear on the regular? Could they be pieces in your go to outfit when you’re in a crunch? Hoping this serves some inspiration to you ladies as you head out the door to go grocery shopping, to tackle errands, or be a boss at work! Find that outfit that makes you YOU!
Hey all! My name is Meredith- I’m a 24 year old full time working mama to two littles (Declan and Delaney. I’ve been married to my high school sweetheart Casey for 4 years now. We love living in New England! Im here to share my passion for style, thrifting, and lifestyle! When it comes to style, mine is eclectic at best. I’m a young mom and even though I want to be appropriate and comfortable, I like to have fun with my outfits as well. I want all women to feel confident as I’m on the path to confidence too. I’m also here to be vulnerable, relatable, encouraging, creative, helping you find a good bargain, and overall fun! I hope you guys are here for it all!
MiscellaneousMere 