Wardrobe Diaries: Moto Into Spring

When I was a little girl I never quite understood the importance my mum placed on outerwear. At the time, wearing a jacket or coat over my little party dresses seemed to defeat the purpose of dressing up (and back then I was all about showing off my new dresses). One day I asked why she always insisted I wear them, especially when it was mid summer, and she knew I'd take it off immediately after our arrival?

Her answer was plain and simple- it just didn't look finished without one.

Even with her explanation I still didn't understand, but it obviously struck a chord (a very confused chord) within me because today, it's one of my most vivid memories from childhood. Yes folks, my mum had me doing the blogger jacket drape long before it was even a thing.

Since growing up, much has changed. My favourite piece of clothing nowadays IS in fact outerwear. I rarely leave home without some form of external layer, be it a jacket or coat or even just a scarf in summer. Throwing on that something extra immediately 'smarts' up an outfit and lends a certain sophistication don't you think?
So tell me readers, are you also an outwear addict? 

{ wearing : warehouse coat // marcs tee similar here and here // michael kors booties (old) // celine trio crossbody bag // omega watch (old) }

Spring Must-Haves

While I usually like to start the week off with a new outfit posts, this week I'll have to dazzle you with something different as my trusty little storage device died right before I started writing this post. Ah the perils of modern technology. Since my previous post was all about Spring staples that I revisit year after year, I thought it was only fair to share a few new items that's been on my radar lately. Usually I like to  steer clear of trends but this season it seems like there are a few items that could live on to become wardrobe basics. What do you think?

{one} 
Distressed white jeans: minimal and chic. This season, I'm really loving all the distressed versions of this classic jean. Although white jeans are everywhere right now, chances are you'll still love them long after they're out of the spotlight.

Paige denim white distressed skinny jeans  $199

{two}
It's been awhile since I've been this excited by a piece of jewellery. Despite the heavy price tag I have a feeling these rings are going to be on everyone's fingers, if not already. I guess it's time to retire all those bib necklaces collected over the last year. 

Balenciaga tube rings $765 // Asos band rings $13.56 // Boticca band wave ring $66

{three}
It feels like I am always on the hunt for the perfect pair of sandals. Something casual but not sloppy looking, something versatile and not too trendy, something comfortable but still elegant... The geniuses at Loeffler Randall have finally achieved that elusive middle ground with a sandal that's both timeless and in vogue. Now which colour? 

Loeffler Randall white sandals $295 // Loeffler Randall lucite gold sandals $325 // Loeffler Randall dark camel sandals $295

{four}
The moto trend has been around for a while and it doesn't seem to be fading anytime soon. I really love the idea of layering a white moto vest over everything for Spring. It's an instant update to what you'd normally wear and plus you get instant street cred.
Man Repeller x PJK silk moto vest $298 // Rebecca Taylor tweed moto vest $395 // F21 faux leather vest $27.80

{five}

Comfy sweatpants in a leopard print? Well now, that just ticks all the right boxes. I think by now it's obvious that anything in leopard is an instant classic. Well almost anything, let's not forget about the existence of the Shore Store, ahem. 

Zoe Karssen leopard sweatpants $135

Spring Style Staples

Every year as the days start to get longer and the sun shines a little brighter, I dig into the deep abyss that is my wardrobe and dust off a few basic pieces to see me through the new season. I call these my Spring Staples. These are the pieces that become building blocks to the rest of my outfits. A sort of blank canvas, if you will, to add playful and seasonal touches. Here are the top five fail-safe items that I bring out year after year:


one . classic trench
What can I say about a classic trench coat that hasn't been said before? If you do not own one yet, I really recommend you consider investing. While I usually wear mine over dresses or pants, this year I'm feeling inspired to try them with slouchy boyfriend jeans and a crop top. The great thing about buying your trench coat from Burberry is that they offer complimentary tailoring to your hearts content.

two . white pumps
When it comes to shoes, I prefer a classic silhouette- pointy toes with a 4 inch stiletto heel and minimal to none platform. This year I just can't get enough of white pumps. After scouring the internet for a good few months I finally came across the perfect pair that's both lady-like and sexy. Thank you Michael Kors.

three . statement watch
I liken it to carrying the latest 'it' bag but in a less in-your-face kind of way. A good watch will make you feel 'put together' even on your most dowdiest days. I've had this Christian Dior watch for almost ten years now and I still love how relevant it is during the warmer months. I'll admit, I'm a huge fan of those Michael Kors/Marc Jacobs gold watches, but when it comes to luxury nothing beats an elegant investment piece.

four . pastel polishes
Pretty in pastel, that's how I like my nails in Spring. Actually this year I'm really loving bright white nails. For that I use an Essie polish in Blanc. Along with everything else demure, I'm also loving matching fingers to toes lately. No more two toned shades or interesting graphics. This year it's all about clean, simple, lady-like nails.

five . peachy pout
I love the look of matte lips. It's a great way to add colour without being provocative or suggestive as glossy lips sometimes do. While I prefer a pale pink or deep red in the cooler months, during Spring I love peachy tones. And it just so happens coral/peachy lips are so on-trend right now. Win-Win!

six . fresh flowers:
Although not really something wearable, I just had to throw this last item on the list. To me, fresh flowers are as essential and bread and water (okay, that might be a slight exaggeration but you get the point). A simple vase of fresh cut flowers has an incredible ability to heighten the mood and atmosphere of any room. This is THE Spring staple of all time.

Wardrobe Diaries: Put a Bow On It

These days I find myself leaning more and more towards easy fuss-free wear. While I love pretty dresses and multiple layers as much as the next girl, in reality most days I'm lucky if I have time to brush my hair in the mornings. Is it just me or has the busy season hit most of the world? These boyfriend jeans have been in constant rotation lately and for good reason. They're comfortable, pairs well with almost everything in my closet and I love the way they contrast with a fabulous pair of shoes. Even my baby girl loves them, although for very different reasons. She loves to stick her arms into the holes and pat my knees, hence the extra large distressing. Being St. Patty's Day this past Sunday, I just wasn't in the mood for dressing up in a leprechaun green costumey outfit. So instead I resorted to a simple white shirt and jeans ensemble accented by a brilliant green Hermes scarf tied into a pretty little bow. Sometimes a small dose of colour is just what you need.

{ wearing : jbrand boyfriend jeans // gap shirt // hermes scarf (old) // furla belt (old) // tory burch tote similar here // prabal gurung for target sandals // michael kors watch }

Wardrobe Diaries: Classic Simplicity

Lately I've found myself more and more drawn towards wearing simple outfits that look effortlessly thrown together. Like this casual tee and denim combo offset by a sophisticated blazer, pair of polished pumps and bright red lips. Funnily enough, those very same effortless outfits are usually also the most time consuming. It's all about achieving that elusive middle ground, somewhere between looking like you spent an hour getting ready and looking like you just rolled out of bed.

The great thing about dressing effortlessly is that there are so many interpretations out there. From style messiah Kate Moss with her messy hair and vintage gowns, to the Olsens with what can only be best described as junkyard chic to Kate Bosworth and her cozy boho style. Each interpretation though different all exude that same I couldn't-care-less-about-my-outfit-yet-I-look-amazing appeal. And then we have the infamous Vogue Paris team and their less is more, simplicity is key approach. In case you were wondering, it's the later I most adhere to. These ladies just ooze effortless chic with a healthy dose of statement accessories on the side. What's not to love about that!

Perhaps it's just a mild case of fashion fatigue, or perhaps I'm finally growing up. Either way I'm putting aside my princess dresses for now and opting for classic A-lined silhouettes and borrowed from the boys aesthetics. What about you? Have you redefined your style lately?

{ wearing : who what wear t-shirt available here // paper denim & co skirt super old but also loving this and this // mango longline blazer // michael kors pumps available here . chanel bag . j.crew chain link bracelet and pave bracelet thanks to INPINK }

Wardrobe Diaries: Neons and Neutral

When the neon trend first debuted in 2011, I was skeptical. I just could not see the appeal in wearing safety vests if you will. There are so many great aspects of the 80's just waiting for a resurrection, but did we really have to bring back the fluro? Well that was what I thought until I saw Christian Siriano's SS12 collection of casual tees paired with floaty neon maxis. All of a sudden I didn't hate it, in fact I rather loved it! Neons were transformed 80's sporty chic to a dreamy nonchalant vision and I was enthralled.

Since then I've found myself always opting for neon accessories when the option exists. A little neon accent goes a long way. I'm especially fond of teaming it with monochrome looks or in this case, basic neutrals. The neon blue druzy necklace and acid neon sandals sit on either end of the torso balancing each other out. Instead of the eye being drawn to a particular statement piece, the dress and jacket take center stage as a result from being framed by the pops of neon.

What about you? Are you a head to toe neon kind of gal or do you shy away from this bright bold trend?

{ wearing: muuba leather jacket similar here also loving the lace version . madison marcus wrap dress also loving this maxi wrap gown . clair vivier foldover clutch . prabal gurung for target sandals . druzy necklace thanks to INPINK use code CAMO30 for 30% off all jewelry }

Wardrobe Diaries: Sweatshirt, Skirt and Stilettos

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One of the best trends to emerge in recent years has to be the glamorization of loungewear. Who knew looking stylish could be oh, so comfortable! With the plethora of boyfriend jeans, sweatpants, wedge sneakers, baseball caps, duffle bags gracing the fashion scene, it's hard to ignore the fact that comfort wear is here to stay.

Most street style looks combine loungewear with some other form of urban wear. Think leather, camo, drapey neutrals and lots of black. While I adore the edgy minimal approach to making sweats look chic, I also love the idea of glamming things every now and then with flirty feminine pieces in the brightest of colours. With Spring on the horizon, here's a few things I'll be wearing to get me through these last weeks of winter- a comfy sweatshirt, long line pencil skirt, pointy toed pumps, leather wrap bracelet and my beloved Trio.

So tell me readers, when was the last time you wore sweats out of the house? Have you also caught the comfort bug? 

{ wearing: gap sweatshirt . asos pencil skirt . vince camuto pumps similar here or splurge here . ted baker collar . celine trio crossbody bag . michael kors 'slim runway' watch . bracelet thanks to house of gemmes }

Wardrobe Diaries: Birthday Ballerina

They say you're only ever as old as you feel. This weekend I turned another year older, and while I don't particularly feel my age, the rest of me begs to differ. Tiny fine lines are starting to show, little aches and pains where there once was none and I'm pretty sure I've even began shrinking.

So to celebrate, I did what any fun-loving girl faced with the realisation that her youth will soon be over, would do. I threw on the girliest pink dress I could find and twirled and twirled till my feet ached and heart raced. It was just what I needed to remind myself that age is but a number. Besides it's never too late to live out your prima ballerina dreams.

Here's to growing old gracefully!

{ wearing: asos tutu dress . luchessi cap toe heels . mossman pastel necklace .  beaded topshop clutch } 

Wardrobe Diaries: Black and White

As much as I love playing dressing up, there's nothing quite as alluring as a simple black and white outfit. Especially one that involves a white button down and black trousers (or some variation of it). It's smart, sophisticated and never outdated.

In this case, my white button down involves a luxurious silky designer shirt with a playful cape detail and some skin tight leather leggings. A classic black and white uniform provides the perfect backdrop to showcase my latest shoe obsession, these metallic silver sandals. I love the slight hint of skin they lend to an otherwise covered up outfit. Finishing off with a dash of colour on the lips, a structured tote to offset the flowy shirt, and a bright white mani/pedi.

Simple as it may be, I think I've just found my new favourite outfit. That just goes to show, they don't call them classics for nothing.

{ wearing: tibi shirt now on major sale . kookai leggings similar here . asos sandals . zara tote available online in mini version . nail colour blanc by essie . lip colour violet crush by estee lauder }

Wardrobe Diaries: Winter's Uniform

Ever since I arrived back from Australia earlier last month, it dawned on me how little of my closet actually gets used. The five months away forced me to become creative, mixing and matching the handful of clothing I had, while shopping trips became scavenger hunts for versatile pieces that could work in any outfit. The whole experience was surprisingly soothing, turns out we really don't need that  much at all.

This leads me to the outfit in this post. For the past month, this red duffle coat and leopard slippers have become my unoffical winter's uniform. I grab it when I'm running errands in a hurry just as much as when I'm dressed up for a lunch date. Leopard and red is not only a classic combination, but also neutral enough to work with just about anything. As part of my spring cleaning for this year, I'm planning to apply the same 'less is more' approach to the rest of my wardrobe. It's about time a makeover happened.

I'm interested to know if any of you have an unofficial winter's uniform? Do you sometimes find yourself wearing the same thing again and again? 

{ wearing: madewell duffle coat . zara leather skirt similar here . kookai turtleneck similar here . florsheim leopard slippers also loving this . tory burch tote . brooks brothers gloves . necklace thanks to karen london }