Ringing in the New Year

Holy crap, I can't believe 2015 is coming to a close.  This year has been insane!  There's been so much excitement - I can't wait to recap with you guys.  I'll make sure to share highlights tomorrow so stay tuned.  Sorry, I'm a little tired because I just got back from my FL trip - hopefully y'all can cut me some slack and commend me on my dedication, ha!  Anywho, for my NYE outfit, I combined two fabulous pieces (a plunging v-neck bodysuit + sequin maxi skirt) to make one killer dress.  I don't know if you guys remember this bodysuit, but I featured it here a while back!  

Charlotte Russe seriously carries some of the sexiest bodysuits I've ever seen!  I scored this baby for $10, but unfortunately, this piece is no longer available online.  Lucky for you guys, they carry tons of other fabulous options.  

Here are some cute but affordable options for your browsing pleasure:

Here's a full body shot for you guys!  I picked this skirt up at ASOS for $54.  If you want one too, act quickly because it's currently on sale HERE for $34 (!!!)  Yeah, I'm kind of kicking myself right now. I'm an avid bargain shopper - hence the name, "Sensible Stylista" - so it makes me sad when something I buys gets discounted further, ha.  I'll get over it though...eventually.  Anywho, I just LOVE the thigh-high split.  I channel my inner Angelina every time I wear it!  

Bodysuit:  Charlotte Russe || Skirt: ASOS || Necklace:  Isharya || Shoes:  Candie's

Here are some other sequin skirts for y'all (varying price points):

I accessorized with my beautiful Isharya choker and threw on black platform pumps to finish off my look!  I'm excited to party it up with my fam later tonight.  We're going to the city for a lovely meal and then ringing in the new year with Dom Perignon.  I'm so excited for 2016 - it's gonna be even better than 2015.  Do you guys have any new years resolutions?

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The Fringe Midi Dress

There's nothing sexier (and easier) than wearing a fabulous dress.  Period.  This fringe midi - available at ASOS here - transitions beautifully from work to play and is perfect for cold weather.  It's made of knitted fabric so it's hella warm!  The sleeves are definitely the best part though - I absolutely love the fringe detailing.  For $61, this dress is a steal because it could totally pass for a designer piece.  Even my MOM wanted to wear it - that's a big deal because she has very expensive taste, ha.

A full body shot for you guys!  I accessorized with my YSL crossbody and threw on fancy ankle strap heels to finish off today's look.  Also, here are other fabulous midis below for your viewing pleasure.  Happy shopping!

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Somewhere in Paradise

If you're following me on snapchat - my handle's @sensiblestylist FYI - you know that I'm currently vacationing in FL right now!  I could've taken a few days off, but I didn't want to leave you guys hanging so I pre-scheduled a few posts for y'all. For today's featured look, I centered my outfit around my new top courtesy of Velvet Heart.  

As you all know, I'm a huge fan of their line.  I've partnered up with them on here several times already!  If you missed the aforementioned features, clicky HERE and HERE. Their clothing oozes serious steeze (style + ease) - if you're unfamiliar with their brand, think James Perse but 100x better. This top, made of 100% rayon, is mineral washed and has a longer split tail back.  If you're interested in this piece, clicky here.  I can pretty much guarantee that it'll become a staple.  This top's called the "Riley," and it's available in several other prints and colors.

Top:  c/o Velvet Heart ($88) || Jeans:  YMI || Bag:  Ora Delphine || Scarf:  Charlotte Russe || Trench: Burberry || Heels:  Kate Spade

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December Favorites: The Best of Beauty

1.  Marc Jacobs Velvet Noir Major Volume Mascara ($26) - Thanks to Influenster, I got to review MJ's new mascara.  I was actually running out so it was great timing, ha!  Although I'm a huge fan of his clothing, I've never tried his make-up.  Don't ask me why because there's no reason! I guess I just never got around it.  I'm really glad I tried it out though because this mascara is legit.  It does a really good job volumizing - you'll look like you're wearing falsies. Seriously.  If you're a fan of bold lashes, you've go to try this product out.  FYI, a little goes a long way!  Don't use too much because you'll probably end up with clumpy lashes.  Also, let the product dry so it doesn't smudge!

2.  Urban Decay Subversion Lash Primer ($20) - Hands down, the most amazing lash primer I've ever used.  The brush coats from root to tip and is formulated with conditioning vitamin E and protective panthenol.  You'll get a really full lash look without the clumping - no spider effect, ha!  Google "spidey lashes" if you don't know what I'm talking about.

3.  Urban Decay Heavy Metal Glitter Eyeliner ($20) - This product's perfect for the holiday season!  If you wanna add a little extra oomph to your look, purchase this STAT.  I'm not usually a glitter advocate, but this liner's on point!  The sparkle stays perfectly in place,  and the effect is sophisticated.  As a plus, application couldn't easier - simply apply a thin line to your lids for a stunning look.  Available in 7 different shades.  I have one of each, and they're all beautiful.  

4.  Yes To Coconut Ultra Hydrating Souffle Moisturizer ($14.99) - Omg, this cream is to die for - it seriously works miracles! If you're looking for an affordable moisturizer, pick this up ASAP.  Trust me, your skin will thank you.  If your skin gets dry like mine does in the winter, you'll want to get a solid moisturizer.  This is spiked with virgin coconut oil, creamy shea butter, and jojoba seed oil, so you get serious hydration.  As a plus, this product smells like heaven!

5.  Strivectin Advanced Retinol Pore Refiner ($99) - I've used this religiously for the last two months, and I can see a very noticeable difference in my skin.  If you're looking to reduce enlarged pores, you need to try this out.  Now, it's NOT cheap, but the results are well worth the money.  I like to apply this under my sunscreen - it's a lightweight moisturizer so it layers well.

6.  Cameo Contour Stick ($39.50) - I've always been a powder-contour kind of girl, but I gotta say, cream contouring kind of rocks... and by "kind of," I mean "totally," ha. I use both in my make-up routine now!  FYI, there are 5 colors available and all of them come with a fancy blending sponge.  In case you're wondering, I use "light."  It's very subtle - definitely not as dramatic as using different colored concealers to contour - and in addition to emphasizing your face's natural highlights and shadows, it hydrates with ceramides and vitamin A.

7.  Urban Decay's Naked Illuminated Shimmering Powder for Face and Body ($30) - I'm starting to realize that I pretty much love everything Urban Decay, ha.  This lightweight, baked powder is glam AF.  I'm all about subtle shimmer so this powder is pretty much a godsend.  If you're looking to up your make-up game, cop this STAT!  Also, the packaging is super cute.  It actually makes a great gift because it comes in an adorable box with a mirror and a brush!  FYI, it's available in three colors - I own it in "lit."  I like to apply some on my neck and cleavage for extra glow!

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All About Asos

I'm all about ASOS as of late.  I seriously can't get over their collection.  I literally could spend hours browsing their online selection.  Can you really blame me though?  They carry amazing brands, and there are so many unique designs to choose from.  What are some of your fave stores?

Anywho, for today's post, I centered my outfit around my new dress.  I pretty much bought this instantly even though it was expensive because I fell in love with the high neck and eyelet detailing. For those of you wondering, it was worth every penny.  If you're interested in purchasing this piece as well, clicky here.  Oh, and the item fits true to size! I'm wearing a US 2, and it fits me perfectly.

For warmth, I threw on my Jayley cape - also purchased online at Asos.  The faux-fur is so luxurious - absolutely perfect for winter!  The open front complements my dress beautifully.  FYI, the cape is "one size fits all."  I always roll my eyes when I see that "size," but in this case, I think it'd actually fit most everyone, ha.

Cape:  ASOS || Dress:  ASOS || Bag:  Christian Dior || Tights:  c/o Hanes || Shoes:  Aldo

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The Sequin Mini

I'm super excited to tell you guys all about my latest look!  I know I featured it today on SS, but I actually wore this ensemble out to dinner last night with my fam.  You may think I look cold, but the weather's been ridiculously amazing!  We went out to one of my fave restaurants in Pittsburgh so I dressed up a bit for the occasion.  I centered my look around my new sequin mini - I got it for $15 at H&M (!!!).  Since I got this baby on sale, I don't have a link for you guys!  I've attached a bunch of other fab options for you though!

Since my skirt's short and tight, I paired it with a loose top for balance.  I didn't show any skin on top because I wanted to keep things classy. As a rule, I typically highlight one body part - in this particular case, I'm showing a lot of leg.  This tip's foolproof in my opinion. Personally, I think some things should be left to the imagination - I don't understand why people choose to walk around half-naked, but maybe I'm just old fashioned! No judgement though - it's just not my cup of tea.  

...and I totally just got off topic!  To finish off my look, I threw on my Sosie vest.  Lucky for you guys, this adorable piece is on sale here for $50 - it was originally $84 so it's quite the steal.  On top of that, you can get an extra 30% off with code UNWRAP30, which takes your total down to $40. If you're a fan of vests, I guarantee you'll love this!  It's made of 100% feather so it's super soft!  Run, don't walk.

I'm absolutely loving this top courtesy of Lady R - a special thanks to Blogger Babes for connecting us.  The embroidery is beautiful, and the piece is super versatile.  You can wear it to work and ooze classic sophistication or style it for a lovely dinner like I did. FYI, it fits true to size - I ordered a size small, but that was a mistake, ha - and is hand-wash/dryclean only.  For those of you interested in this blouse, it's available here for $78.  Also, I'm totally thinking about getting this top, too!  What do you guys think - yah or nah?  

Let's take a look at my new Ferragamo bag!  Le sigh.  It's definitely my current fave crossbody (I've linked other bags I'm lusting for below so take a peek).  I seriously can't stop looking at it because it's so pretty.  Truthfully, I've never been a huge fan the brand, but... things change, ha! This was definitely a big splurge on my part, but I wanted to treat myself because I had a really stressful year. Things have been quite difficult for me, both emotionally and mentally - I'm pretty ambitious so I often bite off more than I can chew. The new year's going to be crazy busy, but luckily, I have some time to recharge before all the madness re-starts.

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The Fringe Sweater

I'm super excited to share today's work-friendly look with you guys because it's a personal fave!  I centered my outfit around my new fringe sweater from Off 5th.  I've never heard of this brand (Zero Degrees Celsius) before, but I'm officially a fan.  As you can see below, I own the top in camel! Unfortunately, that color's sold out, but it's still available in black.  Clicky here to purchase one yourself, and run, don't walk, because it's on sale for $39.99!  

Anywho, I paired my top with black dress pants to keep things professional while upping the style factor with an animal print coat, bold ankle strap heels, and a killer bag.  FYI, I bought this coat last year at H&M for $15 (!!!!)  You have no idea how excited I was, ha!  I live for bargain buys like this. Trust me, it's important to sift through clearance/sale racks.  I promise, your patience WILL pay off! 

Bag:  Badgley Mishka || Pants:  Madewell || Sweater:  Zero Degrees Celsius || Coat:  H&M || Shoes:  Rachel Zoe

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How-to slay at holiday parties this season

I'm super excited to partner up with Hanes today on SS for a fun post on holiday survival.  I'll be sharing my 5 must-haves with y'all.  I promise you'll slay at any and every fancy function with the following...

1.  A sexy dress - show off your stems and sport a fabulous mini this season.  I'm wearing a gorg fringe dress from ASOS today on SS.  I copped it a few weeks ago online while it was on sale for $44.  Y'all know how I feel about bargain buys!  Stores like Charlotte Russe, H&M, and Macy's carry trendy designs for affordable prices.

2.  Hanes tights - Since it's cold as f***, it's important to bundle up!  If you sport a mini, you're def. gonna want to throw on tights.  I can't recommend Hanes enough!  They offer much more than extra warmth. I'm wearing a sheer version below, but Hanes sells opaque styles as well. Pair them with the right shoes, and you'll legs will look hella long, which transitions beautifully into...

3.  Black pumps - Honestly, black heels + black tights kill because they elongate your legs like whoa. I mean, who doesn't like a fabulous visual illusion? As a plus, black heels pretty much go with everything.  You can wear them to work or wear 'em out for a fab night out on the town.

4.  Statement Jewelry - it's no secret that jewelry can make or break an outfit!  I've always been a huge fan of statement jewelry, but dainty pieces can also do the trick.  For today's LOTD, I accessorized with a beautiful necklace, and it honestly makes all the difference in the world.  In case you were wondering, this stunning piece is from Lorraine Tyne.  If you're looking for affordable baubles, check out InPink, Charlotte Russe, and Baublebar.

5.  A killer clutch - last but not least, to complete your sexy holiday look, you'll need a BAMF clutch. The one I'm carrying below is actually from Charlotte Russe.  Their bags are really cute, and they're surprisingly durable.  FYI, mine's made of faux leather.  I'm also a huge fan of box clutches though!

A huge thank you to Hanes for kindly sponsoring this post.  All opinions are 100% honest and completely my own.

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Fabulous Gift Ideas

1.  Peter Thomas Roth Mask-o-holic kit - I can't believe this only costs $75 (!!!!)  You may think it's steep, but it's actually a great deal - all 5 would normally cost $206.  This collection features five of Peter Thomas Roth's most popular masks to detoxify, repair, polish, and hydrate.  It includes the following: the Cucumber Gel Mask, the Rose Stem Cell Bio-Repair Gel Mask, the Pumpkin Enzyme Mask, the 24k Gold Pure Luxury Lift & Firm Mask, and the Irish Moor Mud Purifiying Black Mask. Run, don't walk, because this is limited edition, and you're getting a lot of bang for your buck.

2.  June Jacobs Green Tea Shower Gel - Love, love, LOVE anything June Jacobs, but green tea and cucumber is by far my favorite scent.  For $30, you're basically gifting someone an at-home spa experience.  White, red and green tea extracts along with goji berry, pomegranate and grapeseed extracts help neutralize free radicals and protect skin from premature aging.

3.  Make up Forever artist palette - For $59, you're getting a $221 value.  This is a limited edition palette feature Make Up Forever's coveted Artist Shadows that are conveniently arranged in five easy-to-apply color trios from soft neutrals to bold shades.  As a bonus, they also throw in a step-by-step guide! 

4.  Laura Geller Color Luster Lip Gloss collection - Obsessed with this set.  This four-piece collection  - another great deal because it's a $76 value - makes a lovely gift or stocking stuffer for the beauty buff.  For $25, you get full sized lip glosses in peach glaze (nude), candy apple (bright red), toasty delight (copper), and pink sprinkles (bright fuchsia).  These shades are perfect for the holidays because they sparkle like whoa! Note: the fine glitter is pretty and tasteful.

5.  Bliss softening socks - Oh how I love bliss.  These socks are seriously magical!  You get about 50 uses out of 'em, and they leave your feet super smooth!  They're lined with a special polymer gel, which envelops dry skin and force-feeds moisture when activated by body heat. It treats rough feet with heat-released jojoba oil, olive oil, ceramides, and vitamin e.

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Holiday Glam: The Kimono Dress

I'm all about glam today on SS.  I dressed up for you guys because I wanted to show y'all my new dress from ASOS.  This stunning gown is currently on sale for $59 HERE; it was originally $99 so it's obviously a steal.  I personally can't wait to whip this baby out for concerts!  It's made of a slinky knit fabric that feels like butter.  The v-plunge neckline and thigh-high split ooze sexy, but I promise you'll still look like a class act.  The aforementioned features are risque but tasteful.

In case you were wondering, care is a piece of cake.  It's machine washable so you don't have to worry about dry cleaning.  FYI, the dress is more or less true to size - I'm wearing a US 2 - but I recommend sizing down if in question because the piece is stretchy.  Plus, you can kind of control the fit with the belted tie waist.

I wanted to highlight my neckline so I paired the dress with a stunning choker.  This necklace is from Isharya, a fabulous Indian brand founded by sister-in-laws Fauri and Radhika Tandon.  If you're a fan of costume jewelry, I highly recommend browsing their collection.  Unfortunately, this particular piece is no longer available online, but there are a ton of other wonderful options available online HERE.

One last shot for you guys before I leave you!  I felt weird standing with my right arm extended, but I wanted to show you the bell sleeve.  Isn't it a lovely touch?  Everything about this dress is a do IMO.

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Donde: The best way to take care of last minute holiday shopping

I'm super excited to tell you guys all about my current fave app today on SS.  The Donde fashion shopping app simplifies EVERYTHING, seriously facilitating last minute holiday shopping. Quickly search for women's clothing, shoes and handbags from your fave retailers all in one place! Just tap the type of products, cuts, prints and colors you're looking for, and Donde will display a bunch of options that fit your criteria (search query pictured below).  They pull up a bunch of different styles (classic, retro, boho, etc.) for your viewing pleasure.  You can also filter by sales, prices, brands, and "free shipping only."  For your info, they search famous designers and retailers including Banana Republic, Bloomingdale's, Forever 21, Free People, Gucci, J. Crew, Macy's, Nasty Gal, Net-a-Porter, Nordstrom, Rent The Runway, Revolve, ShopBop, Shoptiques, Target, Topshop, Tory Burch, Yoox, Zappos, Zara, and more.  Whether you're shopping the athleisure trend or looking for office attire, cocktail dresses, formal dresses, red carpet looks, you'll be able to find it in seconds on Donde Fashion.

As a plus, Donde Fashion finds coupons for you!  You can search by store in their Sale Alert Center or save items to your wishlist and be notified later (!!!!) I find the latter particularly exciting - hence the exclamation points - because I'm always waiting for pieces to go on sale.  I rarely pay full price for anything because I think it's a waste of moolah.  I'm sure you guys know this already though.  I usually just splurge on designer handbags because, well, they don't really ever go on sale, ha. Additionally, as of December 15th, Donde Fashion is launching its Universal Shopping Cart which allows users to add products from different retailers from their shopping cart and only submit payment and shipping information once!

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The Checkered Scarf

Alrighty y'all, it's confession time: I shot today's ensemble last week because... I'm currently in MI recording piano stuffs.  You already know this if you're following me on good ol' snapchat though - my handle's @sensiblestylist if you want to tag along.  I actually skipped Workwear Wednesday last week because I ended up collaborating with STI:L - clicky here if you want to see the aforementioned post.  I made sure to feature an office-friendly look for you guys today though so don't be mad! Warning, today's post is pic heavy!  

Scarf:  Old Navy || Dress:  Banana Republic || Bag:  Stella McCartney ||  Shoes:  Candie's

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Tonight Belongs To You

I'm SO sorry about today's post - it's hella short because I'm running late!  I'm flying out to MI today for piano stuffs, and I still need to pack and run a bajillion errands soooo I'll leave you guys with my look + short description!  OH, and before I forget, if you wanna be a part of my adventure, add me on snap! My handle's @sensiblestylist. Okies, now let's talk about today's LOTD.  I centered my latest around my new dress from Banana Republic (copped on sale for $20).  I paired it with my LA Made blazer (available here) and cinched the ensemble with a statement belt.

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Fabulous Holiday Dresses Under $50

In honor of the holiday season, I've decided to do a post on fabulous dresses under $50.  I personally like to wear flashy dresses for parties.  Since I'm "sensible," I purchase them at more affordable stores like Charlotte Russe and Forever 21 because I usually only wear 'em once or twice.  I tend to frequent those stores for trendy pieces and save splurging for classics or super unique items that I love.  The number I'm wearing below is from CR - I got it for $30 online during black friday sales. Unfortunately, this design's no longer available, but I'll make sure to link similar designs below!

For those of you looking for sequined minis:

Current faves from Charlotte Russe:

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Sensible Stylista x STI:L

Compensation was provided for this post by STIL Case (Newvit) via studioD.

I'm SUPER excited to partner up with STI:L today on SS for a fun collab.  Trust me when I say you guys are in for a treat!  I'm just going to be straight with y'all.  I'm a smart-phone-a-holic.  Yeah, I'm pretty much glued to my phone at all times...except when I'm practicing or studying because I literally lock my phone away.  My productivity goes out the window when my cell's out.  I know you feel my pain, too! Ha.

Anywho, if you're a fashion lover like me, a cute case (or several, ha) is a must-have.  Lucky for stylistas everywhere, STI:L has launched.  Their cases are super sturdy due to their innovative dual layer and flexible TPU inner core - the hard polycarbonate back cover protects your phone from drops and the stitch-patterned bezel around the front offers screen protection - and they straight up make BAMF fashion statements. My new case (pictured below) is my current fave.  How could I possibly resist a solid animal print? The pattern's so ridiculously cute, and I absolutely love the unique color scheme.   If you're looking for a new case, make sure you click HERE and get your browse on!  

I actually styled my outfit around it!  I saw it and thought, "man, this is a cool color scheme.  I want to run with it and see what happens!"  I love experiments gone right, ha.  I styled a comfortable yet cute ensemble for today's OOTD.  I started with my fave skinnies and threw on a simple striped sweatshirt.  I topped it off with my new Ralph Lauren long knit cardigan and wore gray shoes to match.

....andddd accessorized with my fabulous STI:L case, of course.  Look at how well it matches!  I can't even mask my excitement.  Mixing prints is a hobby of mine, ha.  

Here's another case for your viewing pleasure!  If you're a fan of sleek cases, this silver metallic cover should do the trick.  FYI, these covers make great stocking stuffers.

sti:l

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A Head Full of Dreams

I'm all about steeze (style + ease) today on SS.  I've partnered up with Velvet Heart to showcase a casual yet fashionable look for y'all.  I centered my OOTD around my new tunic courtesy of VH - available HERE for $89.  I know it's on the pricier side, but it's worth every penny.  I promise you'll love it! The design's really cute, and you're gonna get so much wear out of it.

For today's post, I wore my tunic as a dress.  I paired it with my Donna Degnan coat and threw on suede thigh-high boots to up my texture game.  I accessorized with my YSL crossbody.  I wanted to throw on a dainty necklace, but I was running late.  Le sigh.  It's all good though because my bag basically doubles as jewelry anyway, ha.  In my opinion, the chain's bold enough - it adds the perfect amount of bling to my ensemble.

Bag:  YSL || Jacket:  Donna Degnan || Boots:  Stuart Weitzman || Tunic:  Velvet Heart

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The Plunging V-Neck Bodysuit

In honor of the holiday season, I styled a fab party look for you guys.  I don't usually wear plunging necklines because I find them a bit risque, but I thought I'd go for it today.  I found this fabulous bodysuit at Charlotte Russe for $10, and I couldn't resist.  I paired it with my new pleated taffeta skirt for a glamorous look.  I went with a full midi length for balance. TIP: pick one "body part" to flaunt and keep everything else modest for a classy vibe.  To top things off, I threw on my fave animal print coat for warmth.

Shop my look:

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Workwear Wednesday: Getting Dressed With Old Navy

For today's work-friendly look, I've partnered up with Old Navy to create a fun but polished outfit for you guys.  I started with a simple monochrome base: gray shoes, gray skinnies, and a gray bag.  I then threw on a checkered button-front.  The top I'm wearing below is sold out, but you can get a similar version HERE for $22.  Anywho, the outfit, at that point, was decent but felt "blah" because it lacked personality.  I knew I needed a little extra "oomph" so I topped it off with my new plaid peacoat (available HERE for $35 in various colors).  Color really makes a big difference IMO!  If you're on the shyer side, no worries, just start small.  Try wearing a colorful statement necklace or throwing on a vibrant scarf!

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Velvet Heart: The Cynthia Dress

I'm pumped to tell you guys all about my new dress from Velvet Heart today on Sensible Stylista.  As you all know, I'm a huge fan of their line.  I'm sure y'all have figured that out by now though.  I mean, I've only featured them 149818 times.  Ok, so I may be exaggerating but only slightly, ha! Anywho, the dress I'm wearing below is called the Cynthia.  For those of you interested, it's available here for $89.  It's made of 100% tencel and comes with a self belt.  The design's a classic; one that you'll wear for years to come.  If you're looking for a fabulous denim or chambray dress, stop, because tencel trumps both of the aforementioned fabrics. Trust me, it feels like butter and it's super easy to take care of! As a plus, it's wearable all year long.  For fall weather, layer like I did below!  If you need extra warmth, simply throw on leggings and a thicker coat.

For today's OOTD, I paired my dress with a utility jacket to mix vibes (edgy with classic seems to work well for me).  I wanted to play around with texture so I threw on suede over-the-knee boots (clicky here to purchase) in addition to sporting a military jacket with faux-leather sleeves.  I'm all about juxtaposition if you haven't noticed!  Don't be afraid to experiment with unique pairings. 

Boots: Stuart Weitzman || Dress:  c/o Velvet Heart || Bag:  YSL || Jacket:  Others Follow (similar)

PS.  I'm blasting Cyber Monday sales today at 2 PM EST so make sure y'all check back to get your shop on! Take advantage of these amazing sales and get your holiday shopping out of the way. Trust me, you'll save much more money this way!

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