ramblin’ rose

hi, friends!
i hope everyone is enjoying their fall so far. i haven’t bought my pumpkins or mums yet, but i’m planning to head to the farmer’s market tomorrow to scoop up some decor for my place. i’ve been dying to check out gardens of babylon and will likely come home with some cacti or succulents instead of seasonal flora, but who could blame me? right now i’m really wanting to add to my indoor plant collection, so that’s probably where i’ll be putting my money, but i wouldn’t be surprised if i came home with a funky pumpkin or two. by the way, “the funky pumpkin” sounds like a badass name for a bar or vegetarian restaurant so don’t be stealing that.

this week’s look features a dress sent to me by my dear friend kelsey, who just started her own online store called simply kelsey boutique. kelsey and i worked together at nordstrom for a year and some change, and she’s one of the sweetest (and most adorable) people you’ll find. her shop features cute, affordable goods with an approachable flair. when she asked me to choose an item, i thought that this little dress was an easy, versatile item at an unbelievable price. plus, the color is perfect for the season. it was way too hot for my sweater, but i was really excited to wear it so i suffered and melted through it. look for it more in the future.

hat – janessa leone via council nashville; sweater coat – vince (on sale!); dress – c/o simply kelsey boutique; necklace – sisters of nature {similar here}; sunglasses – ray-ban; turquoise cuff – {similar here}; watch – nixon; bag – proenza schouler; boots – free people

a dress like this is a great foundation for a wardrobe if you aren’t always sure of how to style yourself or don’t feel as confident with your personal style. it’s a great little shift that is flattering on many body types, and can easily transition with different accessories. i actually wore it to work the day we took these photos, and just tweaked it by adding my hat, changing my jewelry, and throwing on my sweater. i wore the boots with it to work as well, but you can see how a pair of ballet flats or nude heels would make this office appropriate for even the most formal of workplaces. check out kelsey’s shop, and here are a few great dresses that would work as great “blank slates” for your office-to-night wardrobe. one, two, three.

i also wanted to mention that i am a big fan of mixing high- and low-priced garments and accessories. ask just about any fashionista worth her salt and she will tell you that wearing head-to-toe designer or one brand does not ensure a great outfit, nor does it really guarantee style. in fact, i’d say that it typically does the opposite. most of the stylish women out there mix finds from brands like j. crew, h&m, zara with their designer pieces for a look all their own. it’s not about the label sewn into the item, it’s about your affinity for it and the ability to add something in to your existing wardrobe seamlessly. this is, in fact, a skill that you can develop with practice.

style challenge
i challenge you to shop your closet and design a new outfit using a piece you already love to wear. try it on with some other items besides those you normally wear with it. think outside the box — try it on, look at yourself in your mirror, and trust your gut! i’m willing to bet you’ll find a whole new ensemble to breathe life into your trusty favorites.