Back-to-School Lookbook

The summer is just about over, so as I work towards acceptance (more about that later), I am doing some back-to-school shopping.  Similar to the little girl that I was, I still enjoy picking out my first day outfit (and outfits in general), and getting some fresh office supplies.  

Here are three looks I styled for Kassie's Closet.  The best part of doing online styling is simultaneously shopping as I do so.

This first look is my version of a  classic teacherly look.  Primary colors done in a way that just make me happy.  The sweater, pencil skirt, and houndstooth pumps are from J.Crew Factory.  I have a version of the sweater, ordered my second long pencil skirt in double serge wool from Factory earlier this week, and I also ordered the pumps.  Very excited to add to my houndstooth collection.  I've had my eye on this Madewell leather backpack for some time now, and I finally decided to treat myself to one.  

This second look is definitely a funky teacher look.  The cords and sweater are from Nordstrom and the denim shirt is Gap.  These shoes are from Barney's and they are definitely on my wish list.  Silver mid-top Nike blazers? Yes, please.  This is the perfect outfit for when I want to feel like my fun, funky self at work.

This look appears simple at first but actually has an edge with this leather front dress from J.Crew Factory.  Paired with burgundy tights and a low heel, it is perfect for work without much effort.

On that note, happy shopping whether online or in your closet!

Love,

Miss M

Birthday Brunch in Brooklyn

August has been a month of celebrations, adventures and reflection thus far.  Here's what I wore to my pre-birthday brunch at Mayfield's in Brooklyn:

Gap 1969 shirt, H&M lace shorts, Steven by Steve Madden suede, peep-toe wedges, Louis Vuitton purse

I am loving neutral colors paired with pops of color.  And of course these are seriously my summer shorts.  I'm trying not to wear them out.  I rediscovered this shirt for this outfit.  A longer-sleeved shirt is a perfect balance for short shorts, especially with wedges!

Assorted gold bracelets from J.Crew and J.Crew factory, assorted rings from Baublebar and Nordstrom

As expected Mayfield's was excellent.  I finally had the burger that I've eyed during several visits.  It was everything I thought it would be and more!  I also sampled the fish and chips, seriously delicious.  I usually find fish (of fish and chips) bland, but was pleasantly surprised.

A candid as my brother tries my Bloody Mary.

The brunch party!

Until next time,
<3
M

Romping in Old San Juan

It's been several months since my trip to Puerto Rico, but teaching has seriously taught me: it is never too late!  Here's what I wore while vacationing in San Juan: a brightly colored and effortlessly flattering romper.  Just my style.

This Express romper sometimes looks like a dress and other times like what it is, a romper!  I didn't bring my strapless bra with me, but I easily tucked my straps into my regular one.  My purple crossover is my go-to travel bag-- it zips, carries everything I need and is a great color.

My island look included dangling earrings from my largely neglected earring collection and plenty of bangles!

Old San Juan is absolutely beautiful to shoot.  I really enjoyed checking out all the colors and color combinations.  Thinking of it, reminds me of the children's book The Big Orange Spot.

In addition to checking out the beautiful houses, I also visited El Morro and Castillo de San Cristobol, the old forts.  Breathtaking views!

A close up of my favorite earrings, not as heavy as they look and in my favorite shape, hearts!

Until next time!

<3

M

Yelp Elite!

Here are some photos I took during a Yelp event at the Long Island City waterfront.  Beautiful views, tasty eats, and plenty of wine, just what I've come to expect of Yelp Elite events in my four years attending.

Brooklyn to Queens can be a trek, so here's what I threw on in my haste to get dressed and be photo ready.

gray tee from Forever21, white flower embossed pencil skirt from ASOS, Louis Vuitton purse

Neutral color palate with pieces that fit well with pops of color go a long way.  I love this crop tee because it's fitted, not too tight and long enough.

My summer bracelets again!  Paired with my blue, beaded Masaai bangle for a pop of color.

I am loving my Warby Parker frames.  They make me super excited to wear glasses even in the summer.  Here I am with my summer face-- au naturale with a hit of gloss.

Until next time,
<3
M

A Trip Upstate

I just got back from spending a few days upstate New York at a friend's beautiful, country home.  O, Almond and I caught Metro North to Poughkeepsie, though we were staying closer to New Paltz.  Metro North allows leashed dogs on the train!  If it weren't for having to take the subway, Almond would have comfortably travelled with us the entire way, just on his leash.  Very good to know!

Here's what I wore:

My mom picked out this strapless, patterned dress at Marshall's.  The chambray shirt I'm wearing is from Old Navy.

I am completely in summer mode, so even though this trip was scheduled in advance, I hurriedly backed my bags hours before leaving to catch out train.  I've been challenging myself this summer, an impromptu challenge, to do little laundry and wear all my clothing.  For this trip I backed long dresses and skirts, all recent purchases from my New Jersey shopping excursions, and a long-sleeve chambray button-up to layer on when things got chilly.  

A quaint church in the quaint town of New Paltz.  

Here's what I wore to the Ulster County State fair.  Tribal skirt worn as a high-waist skirt from Marshall's, American Apparel black body suit with chambray shirt tied over it.

O and I at the fair.  My large "snail" ring was a two dollar and ten cent find a local art supply store.  I love buying rings in the most random places.  

Check out more highlights from the fair, including fried Oreos and the Game of Throne horse on my Instagram.

Here I am at the Shawangunk Ridge aka "the Gunks."  Almond was very excited to be in the mountains!  My simple black dress is from Target, and the purple crossover that I really do wear as a neutral is from Coach.

I meant to do a favorite things post last month, so for this trip, my favorite part was the quiet.  O captured that essence beautifully in this panoramic photo.

Until next time,

<3

M