Wardrobe Diaries: Easy Weekend Wear

Now that the weather's warmed up considerably it means more impromptu getaways and outings are in order. Like this past weekend which consisted of a spontaneous brunch at my favourite eatery in nearby wine country. I packed the kids into the car and off we went zooming through vast country roads flanked by luscious green fields as far as the eye could see while the sun happily shone on uninterrupted.

That's what I love about Melbourne Australia, because of it's relatively compact nature you are never too far from anything. One hour in one direction and you'll find yourself in wine country, one hour the other direction and you're on the coast of the big blue pacific. And if nature isn't your thing, then the hustle and bustle of the city center is always just a quick trip down the freeway. It really is the quintessential ski and surf all in the same day kind of place.

I know I'm going to miss these little trips when I return to Tennessee. The closest ocean is a mere 10 hours away not to mention it will be the height of winter. Suppose I'll just have to make the most of these next two months while I'm down under. Hope everyone had a great weekend!

Giant Steps | Innocent Bystander Winery

{ wearing: j.brand khaki skinny jeans . country road chunky open weave sweater similar here . mossman pastel necklace available in skinny version . lucchesi chrome cap toe pumps . tory burch mini satchel similar here . karen walker anytime sunnies . nail colour nice is nice by essie }

Wardrobe Diaries: Fine Feathered Threads

In an ideal world this is what I would wear everyday- a fabulous frock, beautiful baubles, towering heels and a cozy knit casually thrown over. My very own rendition of Breakfast At Tiffany's. If there's one thing I took away from that film it's that there are no rules in fashion. Who says you can't wear evening wear to the grocery store or lingerie at the park? I wore this outfit for no particular occasion and that's what I love most about it. Some days you just need a little glamour in your life.

{ wearing: alice + olivia dress also loving this skirt version or splurge on this . j.crew sweater . vince camuto bootie also loving the burgundy version . aliss & ena necklace . boticca clutch c/o . lipcolour blackberry by revlon }

In My Suitcase

This week I have been quite absent from the blogosphere. The kids and I are about to embark on a four month trip to Australia so things have been a little hectic in this household. My wonderful sister has kindly traveled 30 hours from Melbourne to Nashville (yes, that's how long it takes!) so I wouldn't have to fly alone with the kids. We depart in less than a week, yikes!

Instead of my usual friday's fancies this week I thought I'd share with you a few outfits I've packed in my suitcase. I choose classic pieces that could easily be mixed and matched together. I also stuck to the 5 piece rule, where I choose only 5 pieces from each category. This helps me be extra selective and ensures that I don't pack. Plus, it's a good reason for me to do extra shopping at my destination.

1. Outerwear
This is my favourite category of clothing. I've packed all my classic go-to pieces here. My classic trench coat, leather jacket, denim jacket, blazer and my all time favourite houndstooth cape.

2. Pants
I've tried to be as diverse as possible with my pants selection. Again, adhering to the 5 piece rule. In my suitcase I have my black coated jeans, floral ankle jeans, distressed skinny jeans, red ankle pants and a pair of sweatpants.

3. Bottoms
Along with pants I also included an array of skirts and shorts. My picks are, black leather skirt, floral midi length skirt, chiffon shorts I bought in Australia the last time, denim shorts, and my pink highlighter skirt.

4. Tops
With tops, I tried to keep things simple and neutral picking out pieces that would work well with all my outfits. For instance, the sleeveless stripe blouse, classic white shirt, silk purple blouse, chambray shirt and a black ballet tee. I won't lie, sticking to 5 tops was incredibly difficult, I may have to make an exception so I can add a few basic tees and tanks.

5. Dresses
I love wearing dresses, they are the easiest way to look put together. It's probably against my better judgement to leave behind all my maxi's, sundresses, casual dress and only bring with me special occasion pieces. Out of everything in my closest I decided to pack my feather cocktail dress, a stripe tweed dress perfect for weddings, a deep red dress for date nights, a corporate looking dress and a black leather dress with lace sleeves.

6. Sweaters and Cardigans
Okay so I probably don't need the sweaters, but if I'm going to be taking outfit photos at my destination, it's better to have some on hand just in case. In my suitcase I have a white cable knit, black knit, and pink stripe knit. I've also packed a mint cardigan and a black peplum cardigan.

Wardrobe diaries: Royal blue and dark

I just love how versatile this Catherine Malandrino maxi skirt is.  It works just as easily with flip flops as it does with heels. Here I have it paired with a navy 3/4 length ribbed sweater from GAP and Burberry scarf.