Tag: J.Crew

STYLE: LESSONS LEARNED FROM 30 DAYS OF STYLE

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Last month I challenged myself to 30 Days of Daily Style. The purpose was to get dressed each day and learn to love and appreciate my current wardrobe. I also wanted to enjoy getting dressed again. Ever since having Teddy, my style significantly shifted to athletic wear (not a bad thing, I just like getting dolled up).


Over the last 30ish days (I had a few days where I was unable to share my outfit) I learned a couple of interesting lessons and gained some insight about what getting dressed each day means to me. Below are some of the thoughts I’ve had during this challenge.


But first, here are the top five looks based on engagement (likes, comments, and shares) on Instagram:

Bonus look: this was my personal favorite!

Lessons Learned:

> Stick to the classics. Classic style is one of the ways I identify myself as a fashion blogger and it rang true during this challenge. The outfits that seemed the simplest and borderline boring were the most popular. I’m 100% convinced that’s becuase they were classic and timeless.


> Wear what you know works. This is similar to the first point, but slightly different. The harder I tried to be creative with my outfit the worse it performed on Instagram. I realized when I picked an outfit that was easy and that I felt comfortable in, I exuded confidence, which is how fashion and style should make you feel.


> Plan ahead. I had much greater success getting dressed and having a smoother morning when I planned and styled out my outfits the night before. It’s a little thing that you may not feeling like doing, but it makes a difference in the morning.


> I wear a lot of pants. Specifically denim jeans. This surprised me as i always have identified as a dress wearer. I think the combination of being a SAHM, nursing/pumping and having to be mobile at all times has caused me to become very casual during the cooler months.


> Keep it simple and dress for your lifestyle. Currently my life is being a stay at home mom with my two babies. This involves lots of playing, fort building, impromptu jaunts outside, spit up, diaper changes, meal prep, etc. I learned quickly that I can still get dressed and look stylish, but my outfit better be no fuss, easy to move in, and limited with the accessories. I have a new found love for classic athleisure wear after doing this challenge.


Thanks to all who followed along with me and supported my posts! It truly means a lot when you guys give feedback and love here on my blog and on Instagram.


Sláinte,

Shannon

STYLE: THE 9-5 EDIT, NAVY BLAZER

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This past weekend we watched On the Basis of Sex and not only was the story brilliant and inspirational, but the fashion was fantastic. The outfits that Felicity Jones wears while playing the character of notorious Ruth Bader Ginsburg are outstanding. One outfit in particular is the inspiration behind this month’s 9-5 Style Edit. In the very last scene of the movie, Felicity Jones is wearing a navy blue blazer with white trim and a white tee underneath (click here to see the outfit!). It’s pure perfection. I loved her look so much, I had to recreate it, changing it slightly to match the casual dress code of my job.

It’s always a good idea to invest in a blazer or two if you work in a professional or semi-professional field. Working in the PR world, I always have to look presentable, as I never know when I’ll be called upon by the media.

This navy blazer in particular is eight years old!! I bought it back in my retail working days at The Limited. It truly has stood the test of time and I think it will continue to do so. A classic navy blazer will literally never go out of style. And this one with the white trim detail adds just enough to make this classic blazer one notch preppier.

I love the look of a classic blazer over a casual tee. A white boyfriend tee with a front tuck makes this the perfect professional, yet casual look for the office. Polish it off with a belt (love the anchor detail), ballet flats, and skinny jeans (no holes please!) and you are office ready. I tend to grab my pink Longchamp or blue Kate Spade totes for a professional, put together look.

I’ve rounded up some navy blazer options below. You don’t have to spend an arm and a leg on a quality navy blazer! J.Crew and Banana Republic have some great options, but you can also find a classic option at Old Navy too!

Navy Blazer Option 1

Navy Blazer Option 2

Navy Blazer Option 3 (great value!)

Navy Blazer Option 4 (amazing price!)

Navy Blazer Option 5 (found a Ralph Lauren on Poshmark with the white trim!)

Slainte,

Shannon

STYLE: THE 9-5 EDIT, SIDEWALK SKIRT

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It’s been several months since I published a blog post from my 9-5 Edit series! With everyone working from home over the past year, this series was pushed to the wayside.  But many people (myself included) are slowly making our way back into the workforce so what better time to bring this series back to life.

Since tomorrow is officially fall, why not showcase a classic fall staple – the J.Crew Sidewalk Skirt. If you are a J.Crew shopper, you’ll recognize this skirt season after season. I have the best selling wool blend sidewalk skirt from J.Crew Factory in a gorgeous magenta. This skirt is the perfect skirt to transition from summer to fall. You can wear it in early fall with a button up shirt or sweater and flats, and as the temperatures get chillier, you can swap out the flats for tights and boots.

For this look, I styled my skirt with a sleeveless button down underneath a knit navy blue v-neck sweater and leopard flats. The perfect sixty degree day ensemble. I played around with a crisp white button up and a belt, as well as a striped crew neck sweater. You can also do a crisp button down or turtleneck with an open front cardigan. The options are endless!!

I do feel the fit of this skirt is a tad big. I’m wearing a size 2 and it’s a wee bit long for my short frame. And the elastic waistband gives you a lot of extra room, so my recommendation is to size down.

J.Crew and J.Crew Factory also offer this skirt in a summer linen version with a scalloped hem – so cute! This piece is perfect for teachers, collegiates, lawyers, my PR ladies – basically it’s the perfect skirt for everyone. It’s an easy dress up or dress down item and easily transitions from season to season. It’s a must have classic, preppy piece that should be in everyone’s closet in every color.

Slainte,

Shannon 

SHOP THE LOOK – You can always shop my looks by following me on the LiketoKnowIT App!

Sidewalk Skirt | V-neck Sweater | Leopard Flats | Pearl Earrings | Pearl Necklace | Pearl Bracelets

STYLE: BEACH SWEATER

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Last week on Instagram Stories I did a poll asking if you guys would rather see me style a beach sweater or striped terry top sweater.  It was incredibly close, 55% to 45% in favor of the beach sweater.  I personally was feeling the striped sweater this past weekend, so I decided to style both.  Full disclosure: there is little to no difference between how I styled these because I realized once we arrived at the beach it would be very hard for me to change! Nonetheless, I think the subtle differences create two different enough looks; and besides, “Simplicity is the key to perfection” (read that in a book and very much liked it!).

Beach Sweater 

Every classic lady needs at least one beach sweater. I enjoy this grayish-blueish sweater from Old Navy, but I also just bought this pretty sky blue one from J.Crew. I’ve actually been pairing this beach sweater over my t-shirt dresses lately, but for our beach day, I chose white cutoff denim shorts with a basic white tee underneath. This time of year the mornings are chilly so you definitely need a sweater, but I also suggest dressing in layers, hence the white tee underneath.

To finish this look, I grabbed my favorite sunhat, my classic Rayban’s, and my favorite slide sandals. Simple, classic, and timeless!

This sweater would also be cute paired with white denim jeans and a baseball cap as the days continue to get cooler.

Striped French Terry Top Sweater

A striped sweater and white denim shorts are always a perfect pairing for the beach. To switch this look up slightly, I swapped my Rayban’s for my oversized Tortoise shell sunglasses, and removed the white tee and sunhat. I also did a front tuck, which I almost always do because I think it makes wearing a sweater with shorts look less frumpy. Again, easy, simple, and classic.

I know these outfits were very similar, but hopefully one or both will provide you with some inspiration. And if ever in doubt, simplicity is the key to perfection.

Slainte,

Shannon

SHOP THIS LOOK:

Beach Sweater | Striped Terry Top | Denim Shorts | White Tee | | Rayban’s |Tortoise Shell Sunglasses| Sandals (similar)

STYLE: EASTER OUTFIT, STAY HOME EDITION

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This coming Sunday is Easter and it’s no secret that this year’s celebrations will be very different.  Rob and I both are fortunate to have family close by, so holidays are usually large, loud, and full of people.  Just because we are staying home though doesn’t mean we can’t celebrate. 

We fully intend on cooking a nice meal, giving L an Easter basket full of goodies, and setting up an Easter egg hunt in our backyard (although it may be indoors as the forecast is looking a bit gloomy).  

I also plan on getting dressed, as is my normal routine each day. Normally I wear a Lilly Pulitzer dress or top on Easter. But since we are staying home this year, I am going to pull something together that is a little more casual yet still springy, chic, and effortless.

When I saw this violet colored gingham button-up from J.Crew Factory, I knew it needed a home in my closet and I knew I’d be wearing it for Easter. (Side note, I actually don’t have much purple in my closet and I have no idea why because it’s so pretty!) The familiar checked pattern that represents gingham is classic and charming. I love seeing classic photos from the 1950s and 60s of women styling gingham cropped pants, sleeveless tops, and dresses. Wearing this pattern always gives me a boost of confidence because I know it will always be stylish and classy.

This top paired with white denim and some easy flats (or even tennis shoes) is a perfect stay home Easter ensemble. It’s comfy yet stylish and classic. Adding a front tuck or simple knot in the front adds a little extra style.

Below are some links to more easy outfits you can wear for Easter at home.

Easter Outfit 1

Easter Outfit 2

Easter Outfit 3 

Easter Outfit 4

Stay well friends! 

Slainte,

Shannon

SHOP THIS LOOK!

Gingham Button-Up | White Denim | Earrings | KJP Bracelets

STYLE: FIVE WAYS TO TRANSITION YOUR WARDROBE TO SPRING

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Spring is only four weeks away – YAY! This warm weather girl is incredibly happy about this fact.  Although in all fairness, Ohio has experienced a VERY mild winter.  

Nonetheless, this time of year I’m always ready to transition my wardrobe into spring.  Below are five easy ways to bring a little color and warmth to your style. 

White Denim

If you don’t already wear your white denim all year round, now is the perfect time to bring out this classic pant. White denim is the perfect blank canvas in which to pair bright colors and prints. For me, wearing my white denim jeans gives me an instant warm weather vibe. My favorite pair of white denim is from J.Crew Factory (love the high rise), but these are also good styles: white denim 1, white denim 2, white denim 3.

Floral earrings

A simple easy way to feel those spring like vibes is with a cute pair of floral earrings. I’m all about the flower power and these pretty white and pearl flowers from Sea Marie Designs (thanks for the rec Claire!) are a lovely addition to your wardrobe. These particular ones also come in black and pink!

Gingham

Gingham is the universal print for spring and summer. Adding a subtle touch of gingham with a headband (this one is also from Sea Marie Designs) is a perfect way to add a summer aesthetic to your outfit. You can also try a button down gingham top and pair it with your white denim. I have this shirt in navy, pink and light blue.

Flats

The easiest way to make your wardrobe feel more springy is by swapping out those winter boots for some easy, breezy flats. By mid-February I’ve about had it with wearing heavy boots, so any time the temperature rises above 40 degrees, you better believe I’m bringing out the leopard flats or a pair of loafers.

Bright Handbag

Although I don’t limit this handbag to spring and summer, carrying a handbag in a bright hue always adds an instant warm weather vibe to your look.  In my opinion, color never goes out of style, so don’t be afraid to buy a classic, structured handbag in a bold color. 

These five easy switcheros to your wardrobe will instantly help you feel a little more hopeful that warmer, sunnier weather is on the horizon.  Be bold and bright my friends! 

Sláinte,

Shannon 

SHOP THE LOOK:

CHAMBRAY TOP | WHITE DENIM | GINGHAM HEADBAND | FLORAL EARRINGS | LEOPARD FLATS | KATE SPADE HANDBAG (OLD)

STYLE: MONOCHROMATIC MOMENT

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It’s that time of year where I’ve had enough of winter and am pining for spring. What better way to add a little skip to my step than by pairing white on white with a pop of lavender?!

Wearing white on white (or cream on cream) is classic, simple and clean. Any monochromatic styling is quite easy to do, and funnily enough, the monochromatic look is having quite the moment right now. A monochromatic color scheme can be as much as a statement as patterns and prints. It instantly adds an element of sophistication and style to any look. Dressing head to toe in one color or shade can actually elongate your silhouette and allow you to highlight a certain part of your body.

Styling an outfit with monochromatic colors can include different shades and tints of the same color. I would also recommend adding texture or pattern, which will create some depth and originality. For this outfit pairing, I chose bright white denim with a cream, cable knit sweater. And since it’s the middle of winter in Ohio, I added my lavender J.Crew Factory City Coat to keep me warm.

In addition to white, I also enjoy styling navy and pink monochromatic looks.  Look for a pink look coming soon to my IG! 

Sláinte,

Shannon 

SHOP THE LOOK:

WHITE DENIM | CABLE KNIT SWEATER | CITY COAT | KNIT HAT | BOOTIES

STYLE: CITY COAT REVIEW

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Living in Ohio, you never know what winter will bring.  Some years we experience mild temperatures and very little snow.  Other years we have subzero temperatures and one snow storm after another.  Because our great state is so temperamental, one must have winter attire for every scenario.  

One style of coat that has been lacking in my wardrobe is a nice wool coat. I’ve been eyeing the J.Crew Factory City Coat for several seasons, and this year I decided to ask for it for Christmas.

I’ve been wearing it pretty much nonstop for the last couple of weeks and overall I’ve been thrilled with this coat.  Below you can find my review of the coat, broken down by style, fit and warmth.

STYLE

A classic cut and a pretty feminine color (love this lovely lilac so much) makes this coat stand out. The clean, straight lines and standing collar make it polished and chic. This coat gives me some serious 1960’s vibes and I feel like I’m channeling my inner Audrey Hepburn. Plus, it comes with some nice size pockets and any coat with large pockets is a win in my book.

FIT

The one qualm I have about this coat is that it is slightly oversized and because of that, it can look a little boxy. It’s supposed to be a mid-rise fit, but I’m only 5’2” and it’s longer than I would like. And because of my petite frame, the sleeves and shoulders a bit too big.

WARMTH 

I styled this coat in 18 degree weather so I can definitely attest to its warmth. Comprised of a wool/polyester blend, this coat is warm and heavy, so it doesn’t require layers upon layers. It has a pretty silk lining that adds an extra layer of style and warmth. I wore a tissue thin turtleneck and an open front cardigan underneath and I was perfectly cozy.

Overall, I do adore this coat and definitely recommend it to anyone looking for a versatile winter coat.  I think one of my favorite aspects of this coat is how easily I can dress it up or down.  I chose a casual look for this post, but it looks equally stylish with skinny black pants and booties.  

I’ve linked the details of my outfit below, so feel free to get shopping! 

Sláinte,

Shannon 

SHOP THE LOOK:

J.Crew Factory City Coat | Hunter Boots | Longchamp Bag | S.Lynch Knitwear Hat | J.Crew Denim

3 PREPPY WAYS TO STYLE A SWEATER BLAZER – PART III

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PART III – Work Style 
Last week I did a poll on my Instagram stories asking how you guys wanted to see this sweater blazer styled for work.  You guys voted for a dress style shoot, so here you go! 
This look can easily work for a business professional job OR for the holidays.  I chose a cute little navy dress (I prefer navy over black, but a little black dress will also work!).  I tried on several dress styles to pair with this sweater blazer and a shift dress is definitely the most flattering.  
When styling this sweater blazer with a dress, you want the length of the sweater to be just a touch shorter than the dress.  Otherwise the blazer looks too boxy.  
I don’t wear a ton of heels at this stage in my life (if you can chase a toddler in heels you are the epitome of grace).  I chose ballet flats with this look, but booties with tights is a perfect alternative as we head into the long winter months. 
Since this look is styled for the office, I kept the jewelry classic and low key.  You can never go wrong with pearls if you want to accessorize your look for work. 

Hopefully this three part series has provided some style tips, ideas, and inspiration for how to wear this sweater blazer multiple ways.

Shop the details of this look below!
Sláinte,
Shannon 
SHOP THE LOOK

3 PREPPY WAYS TO STYLE A SWEATER BLAZER

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PART 1: Holiday Inspired 
I have shared this gorgeous open front sweater blazer on my Instagram before and you guys LOVE it.  My mom gifted me this for my birthday this year and I wear it ALL THE TIME.
This J.Crew Factory sweater blazer is polished, elegant, and oh so stylish.  I love the structured shape and the collar detail.  The color is gorgeous! And guess what, blush is my FAVORITE neutral.  This sweater blazer is a perfect transitional piece for fall and spring, but it will also carry well into winter as a layering piece for those cold, bitter days. 
Since you guys love this blazer as much as I do, I thought it would be fun to show you how to style it three different ways. 
The first way is for the holidays! With Thanksgiving and Christmas just on the horizon, you are probably brainstorming outfits.  I’m not typically a red holiday person (I prefer navy and gold), but I love how this red plaid pattern pairs with the subtle blush pink.  So pretty and festive! 
Pairing the sweater with a pop of plaid instantly amps up the holiday festiveness.  Wear some skinny black pants or black mini skirt and you will be comfy and stylish.  I chose pointy black suede flats for my shoes, but booties or knee high boots would be equally cute.  
I almost always wear a chunky necklace and fun earrings when dressing up.  I love how the gold pops against the red plaid and I love how the blush and gold earrings tie everything back together. 
Hopefully this look has sparked some inspiration for your holiday outfit! The sweater blazer is on sale this week so I’ve linked this style as well as  my other outfit details below. 
Sláinte,
Shannon 
SHOP THE LOOK