The Lacy Yellow Skirt: Remixed Three Different Ways

I'm all about lace today on Sensible Stylista.  I styled three fabulous ensembles for you guys and centered them all around, you guessed it, my fitted yellow pencil skirt.  The looks I've featured today are dedicated to those of you seeking work-friendly inspo.  All three were featured previously so if an outfit (or outfits for that matter) looks familiar, think of this as a refresher!

Left: A splash o' print (or a LOT in this case) never hurt nobody! For this look, I styled my skirt with a printed blouse from Talbots.  Since the pairing's quite "busy," I made sure to keep things simple on the accessory front aka no statement jewelry.  I could've definitely worn a dainty necklace or something, but I decided to skip it altogether.  To finish off my look, I carried a beige bag and threw on cap toe heels to match.  Click here to see more from this post.

Middle: A classic white button-front elevates any and every ensemble. Throw one on to instantly ooze polish and sophistication!  If you don't have one already, pick one up STAT at your local Polo Factory outlet - you'll get serious quality for a fraction of the price.  To read more about this outfit, click here.

Right:  Yellow all day, err day.  This post is the most recent outfit I've shared on SS - if you missed it, no worries, simply click here to access the aforementioned blast.  Anywho, for this getup, I paired my skirt with a matching yellow top - yay for monochromaticism.  Since the color itself makes a bold statement, I made sure to accessorize with neutral pieces.  TIP:  throw on nude shoes that match your skin color to visually elongate your stems.Which look do you guys like best?

Would you like me to do more of these remix posts? Make sure you leave me a comment below - your feedback means the world to me!

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Sensible Stylista x Banana Republic: Part 2

A while back, I partnered up with Banana Republic for an outfit post on SS - click here if you missed the aforementioned blast.  They'd sent me two different pieces to style, but I didn't have the time to shoot part 2 until now.  So, for today's OOTD, I centered my look around my new BR top. Unfortunately, this tank's no longer available online, but I've linked similar options for you guys below so remember to scroll down.  

Anywho, I was feeling super summery so I decided to wear yellow from head to toe.  I paired my tank with a lacy pencil skirt to match for a fun yet polished work-friendly ensemble.  As you all know, I usually accessorize with jewelry but I skipped it for today's LOTD because I wanted the hue to take centerstage.  How do you guys feel about bright colors - are they a do or a don't? Would you wear a monochromatic look?  Make sure you let me know by commenting below!  Also, as promised above, here are similar tank options for your browsing pleasure (varying price points):

Skirt:  Shop Scoobie || Bag:  Chicwish || Top:  c/o Banana Republic || Shoes:  Cole Haan via DSW

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The Utility A-line

I've been a huge fan of the military trend for god knows how long now so I'm thrilled (to say the least) to tell you guys all about my new utility a-line!  I picked it up at Banana Republic a few months ago for $20.  Don't ask me why I waited so long to feature it on SS - I mean, I've worn it out several times already so who knows.  Better late than never though, right?  

Anywho, for today's look, I paired my skirt with a striped tank on top for an effortlessly stylish look.  I could've dressed it up with a button-front, but I wanted to do something a bit more casual for you guys.  I kept things simple on the accessory front and skipped jewelry altogether, but my bag kind of functions as a faux-necklace so it works out!  To finish off the look, I threw on strappy wedges - I got them at Aldo way back in the day, and I still love wearing 'em.  How do you guys feel about the military trend - is it a do or a don't?

Tank:  Chaser || Skirt:  Banana Republic || Bag:  YSL || Shoes:  Aldo

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Stitch Fix: A Personalized Shopping Experience

I'm really excited to tell you guys all about Stitch Fix today on Sensible Stylista.  If you're looking to have a personalized shopping experience, I recommend checking them out.  Here's how SF works: personal stylists handpick a selection of five items (clothing + accessories) just for you after you fill out a detailed style profile.  The survey helps them understand your size, style, shape, budget and lifestyle and takes 10 minutes tops.  

You decide when you'd like to receive your shipment.  At the time your stylist selects your items, you'll be charged a $20 styling fee, but not to worry, it'll be applied as credit toward anything you decide to purchase.  You're then free to try everything on in the comfort of your home.  The cool part? They include a cute brochure with outfit ideas to help you brainstorm looks.

You have three days to decide want you want to keep and what you want to send back!  Simply return the items you don't want in a pre-paid mailing bag - Stitch Fix clients get free shipping both ways as a courtesy.  You check out by logging into your account and paying there.  Oh, and if you decide to keep everything, they give you 25% off your entire purchase.

Afterwards, you give them specific feedback online regarding your package so their stylists can send you better selections in the future (if you choose to continue shopping with them).  You can choose to receive regularly scheduled shipments or opt out - there's no membership fee and a monthly subscription's not required.

Although I loved the items they sent me, I ended up only keeping one dress (pictured above). I styled it with a sleeveless vest (from Banana Republic Factory Outlet) for a chic work-friendly ensemble and accessorized with neutral pieces to match.  For those of you wondering, my shoes are from Jessica Simpson and my bag's Burberry.
Photography:  La Belle Mel || Melanie Yu

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Workwear Wednesday: Gold Pearls

For today's OOTD, I've partnered up with The Mint Julep Boutique for a chic office-friendly look.  I centered my latest ensemble around their Gift of Grace Dress.  Isn't it stunning?  I love that it works beautifully for work and play. The piece has a fair amount of stretch so you don't have to worry about feeling constricted.  Mine fits like a glove - it's super comfortable yet it hugs my curves nicely. Anywho, if your office is on the more conservative side, simply throw on a fitted blazer, a pair of tights, and nude closed-toe kitten heels.  If you're interested in purchasing this dress, click here.

I am head over heels in love with my pearl necklace from Jwholesale.  They have several colors available online, but my favorite by far is the gold.  For $13.60 (click here to purchase), you're getting a gorgeous set - they throw in earrings to match. Don't let the price deceive you though. Yes, it's inexpensive, but you're getting quality jewelry.  As always, let me know if you guys have any questions by commenting, tweeting, whatever.

Dress:  c/o Mint Julep Boutique || Necklace:  JWholesale || Shoes: Amiclubwear || Bag:  Burberry

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Workwear Wednesday: The Polka Dot Midi

I'm straight up obsessed with polka dots.  In fact,  so much so that I have an entire pinterest board dedicated to the print HERE.  Needless to say, I am head over heels in love with my new midi skirt from Good Row Clothing. This adorable piece is made from 100% polyester - if you're in between sizes, size up because this item doesn't have stretch!  For your reference, I'm a 25-26, and I'm wearing a size small.  Also, heads up, this skirt has quite a bit of volume so you're going to want to pair it with a crop or form-flattering top.  

This a-line is on the pricier side, but you get free US shipping so it all balances out.  Plus, 10% of your order goes to help end homelessness so you're technically shopping to help a cause, ha.  For today's OOTD, I paired my skirt with a classic button-front and tied it to accentuate the small of my waist. I accessorized with a dainty layered piece from the 9th Muse, threw on my fave Kate Spade bow heels, and carried my new Ferragamo crossbody.  It was fairly warm out so I didn't wear a coat, but a moto jacket would've looked great with this ensemble.

Skirt:  c/o Good Row Clothing || Top:  Polo by Ralph Lauren (similar) || Necklace:  c/o The 9th Muse || Bag:  Salvatore Ferragamo || Shoes:  Kate Spade

I absolutely love Kate Spade.  Their shoes are always so cute!  I'd buy more of them if I had the money.  Here are some heels I'm currently lusting for:

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Workwear Wednesday: The Gray Poncho

Alright guys, it's time for my weekly work-friendly post!  In case you're just tuning in, I share office-appropriate ensembles every Wednesday.  I centered today's look around my new poncho from Ann Taylor.  It was 80% off at the time so I got it for $15! Unfortunately, I don't have a product link for you guys, but I found other cute options for your browsing pleasure - all under $50:

Tee:  Banana Republic || Bag:  Stella McCartney || Scarf:  c/o VeVelle || Pants:  Madewell || Poncho:  Ann Taylor || Shoes:  Candie's (similar)

Re-purpose your cocktail ring like a pro by using it as a scarf ring! It's easy-peasy - simply choose a bauble of your choice and pull the ends of your scarf through.  It's a great way to switch up your look!  Also, for those of you wondering, my scarf's from Vevelle.  Made of 100% silk, the piece draws its inspiration from Haiti's rich heritage.

Shop my look:

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Find of the Day: The Cable Knit Poncho

I'm super excited to share today's post with you guys because I'm featuring my latest designer find on Sensible Stylista!  I picked this luxe Christopher Fischer poncho up last week at Last Call Neiman Marcus for $110 - there was a special promo going on so I got an extra discount on top of an already-reduced price tag.  Currently, it's available online for $144.50 - click here to purchase.  I know that's still quite pricy, but trust me, you're getting a great deal because it was originally $450.  This sophisticated piece oozes steeze with its slouchy turtleneck, dolman sleeves, and oversized silhouette. It'll become a closet favorite in no time! I've personally already worn this several times already.  It's effortlessly stylish, warm, and comfortable.  TIP: Use code LCSHIP to get free shipping on your order!

My look for less:

Other ponchos for your browsing pleasure (all under $50):

Bag:  Paul's Boutique || Shoes:  Rebels Footwear (similar) || Skinnies:  Theory (similar) || Poncho:  Christopher Fischer via Last Call

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Workwear Wednesday: The Cowl-neck Sweater Dress

I'm super excited to share today's work-friendly look with you guys because I centered it around my latest bargain buy.  I scored this chic cowl-neck sweater dress at Old Navy for $11.97.  I don't know if you guys remember, but I featured this dress in black HERE back in November.  I ordered a bunch in different colors, but I actually ended up returning the gray.  I regretted it though -  it's such a great deal, and the dress is really versatile - so when I saw the piece on sale again, I re-bought it on the spot.  I highly recommend picking one (or four) up for yourself!  I guarantee it'll become a closet-favorite.  For your reference, I'm wearing a petite small.

 Bag:  Chanel (look for less) || Shoes:  Wild Diva (similar) || Dress:  Old Navy || Cardigan:  Saks Fifth (similar)

Shop my look: 

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Workwear Wednesday: Madewell's Lace Magnolia Dress

As you guys know, I'm a huge fan of Madewell - I raved about them HERE recently - and a serious lover of lace, so when I saw this gorgeous dress hanging on their sale rack,  it was pretty much love at first sight!  This piece originally sold for $168, but it was marked down to $79.99.  On top of that, I got an additional 40% off + 15% student discount, which brought me to a flat $40.80.  For $40, this piece is a serious bargain because Madewell clothing is legit, like designer-quality legit.  Stores like Charlotte Russe and Forever 21 sell pieces for that price.  Now, I'm not knockin' those stores at all!  Y'all know how much I love shopping their collections - I buy trendy pieces from them all the time, but I tend to look elsewhere for classic pieces that'll last me forever.

Everything about this dress is a do in my book.  The sheer sleeves are classy yet sexy, and the scalloped peekaboo hem is beyond cute!  The best part of this piece though, by far, is the fit.  It's as if it was tailored for my body!  As a plus, it's super versatile so transitioning from work to play is easy peasy lemon squeezy.  I do have some bad news though!  Unfortunately, you can't score this dress online for the same price I did - I looked it up for y'all, and it's marked $79.99 - but I recommend checking your local Madewell regardless. For those of you interested in the dress regardless, clicky HERE.  FYI, it's also sold in a beautiful cabernet.  

Dress:  Madewell || Cardigan:  Francesca's || Necklace:  Charlotte Russe || Bag:  c/o Handbag Heaven || Shoes: Kate Spade

Shop my look: 

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Workwear Wednesday: The Collared A-line Dress

I am officially obsessed with Betsey Johnson.  I was a huge fan of her designs when I was younger, but I stopped shopping at her store because it was totally out of my budget.  I was in high-school so yeah, I was perpetually broke...which actually kind of sounds like my life right now, ha!  In all seriousness, I found her line to be a bit much (borderline tacky) at one point.  I don't know what I was thinking though because I pretty much love everything she sells now.  Confession:  I spent a good hour browsing her online store last night.  Thank god for sales!  I enjoy looking at full-priced items, but unless it's a designer bag or coat, I probably won't buy it.  

That brings me to *drum roll, please* my new dress!  Isn't it freakin' adorable?  The collar is accented with faux-pearls, and the three-quarter sleeves are cuffed.  The dress is made of a polyester/cotton/spandex blend so it has quite a bit of give.  It's an a-line dress so it flatters all body types (reinforcing tip 6 of my "9 Ways to Cover Muffin Top" article)!  I scored this gem for $56.99, which is still pricey, but a good deal considering it was $168 originally.  For those of you interested in this dress, you can still purchase it HERE for $55.99 + free shipping at Saks Off Fifth.  Oh, and FYI, I'm wearing a size 4.

Shop my look:

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Color Combo: Beige + Gray

Hello, hello, hello!  I hope you guys had an amazing weekend with lots of R&R.  To start the week off with a (very polished) bang, I featured a chic yet casual ensemble for y'all on Sensible Stylista. I centered my latest around my favorite knit from Madewell.  I absolutely love shopping at their store because their clothing is effortlessly stylish.  Tip:  make sure you go straight to the clearance section in the back.  They usually have stuff - that's already reduced - on sale for an additional 40% off! On top of that discount, you get an extra 15% off if you're a college student or teacher; just make sure you remember to bring a valid ID.

Moving on, I've been really into neutrals as of late so I decided to stick with a classic two-tone color scheme for today's look.  I paired my top with gray skinnies and threw on nude wedges to elongate - these shoes are a godsend because they give me both height and comfort.  If you want your legs to look longer, find shoes that match your skin color to create a long, uninterrupted line. I threw on a beige moto jacket for warmth and carried a Celine-inspired bag to match.  I accessorized with a sophisticated statement necklace to top off my look.

Jacket:  Charlotte Russe || Jeans:  Theory || Sweater:  Madewell || Bag:  Chicwish

Shop my look:

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Workwear Wednesday: The Plaid Tunic

I'm super excited to partner up with Gentle Fawn again on SS.  If you missed my previous collab with them, clicky here!  Anywho, I centered today's OOTD around my new plaid tunic courtesy of GF. I paired the piece with a mauve cardigan and wore accessories to match.  As y'all can see, I'm all about simple color schemes as of late!  To top things off, I threw on a cute necklace for a bit of pizzazz. BTW, I'm sorry I look a little off today - I'm not feeling very well so I look a bit "eh."  Apologies!

Here's my tunic sans cardi!  Isn't the print super cute?  I absolutely love wearing this baby because it's stylish AND comfortable.  A solid tunic is a must-have in my book because it's perfect for a lazy day! You just throw one on and pair it with leggings and boots for a quick but fab ensemble.

Also, just in case this tunic didn't strike your fancy, here are other adorable versions for your browsing pleasure:

Shoes:  Guess || Bag:  Burberry || Tunic:  c/o Gentle Fawn || Cardigan:  BCBGMaxAzria Factory Outlet

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Good Row Clothing

Alright guys, I have a really strange story to tell y'all today.  Last night, I got pickpocketed for the first time...in the suburbs.  I mean, talk about irony.  I lived in NYC for 2 years and Baltimore for god knows how long, and I've NEVER gotten robbed.  Then, last night, somebody bumped into me at Walmart and totally jacked my wallet.  I was standing by the dairy section when I realized it was gone.  I totally flipped out!  Someone directed me to the manager, and she told me to call the cops.  I got in touch with them, and they told me to wait up front.  I was actually really surprised that they got there so quickly - mad props to them.  Anywho, after I told them what happened, they took down my number and told me that they'd hit me up!  I was waiting in the car, pissed at Bank of America for making me wait so long - I was trying to cancel my credit cards - when I got a call from the officer saying he found my wallet (!!!!!!)  

Apparently, the thief took my wallet, opened it, stared at it for a few seconds, then zipped it back up, threw it to the side near the exit, and left. Insert a huge WTF here, ha.  Yeah, I don't know what happened.  I was carrying $100 in cash along with gift cards but nothing was missing.  It was all very strange. Well, I guess I have really good luck? Anywho, lesson learned.  Always, always, always keep your guard up!  I was/am hyper alert in NY and Baltimore but didn't think twice about a tiny suburban town.  

Anywho, that's that.  Let's talk fashion now!  I'm partnering up with Good Row Clothing today on Sensible Stylista for my OOTD.  Based in downtown LA, their clothing is classic yet distinct, and as a HUGE plus, they're socially responsible - they donate 10% of their profits to the homeless.  In fact, as of 1/13/16, they've donated $837.51 to the Downtown Womens Center in LA.  They give to the aforementioned organization because they're located near Skid Row, and they want to do more for their neighbors.  They've also partnered up with Carbon Checkout so that their customers can purchase carbon credits ($1 = 147 lbs of Carbon Offset) to offset the environmental impact of their purchase - their carbon funds are currently backing the MP Greenwood Landfill Gas to Energy project.  

For today's look, I centered my OOTD around Good Row Clothing's sleeveless a-line.  Made of 95% polyester and 5% spandex, this dress is super soft and cozy. It kind of feels like felt?  It's hard to describe, but it feels nice, like I'm wearing a (really fashionable) blanket or something, ha.  As a plus, this dress is flattering for all body types. Remember my article "9 Ways to Hide Muffin Top with Fashion?"  This is a great example of no. 6.  

I styled my top with a cropped cardigan (I've had it for years now)!  I thought about wearing jewelry but passed on it because of the cowl neckline. I could've thrown on a pendant necklace but thought it'd look better without it.  I carried my fave bucket bag (from Marc Jacobs) and threw on nude heels to elongate my legs.  Note: I'm wearing Hanes tights for additional warmth!  

Dress:  c/o Good Row Clothing || Bag:  Marc Jacobs || Cardigan:  Cache || Heels:  Kate Spade || Tights:  Hanes

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Workwear Wednesday: The Checkered Coat

Alright guys, it's time for another office-friendly post!  I centered today's look around my new skirt courtesy of Grey State.  This piece is a wardrobe fave because it's super comfy yet sophisticated!  If you're a fan of James Perse, you'll absolutely love GS's line.  They do such a wonderful job with luxe casualwear.  Anywho, I paired my new skirt with a casual gray crop for comfort. I then threw on a checkered coat and scarf on top to tie everything together.  I made sure to stick with a simple color scheme for max polish.

Scarf:  Old Navy || Coat:  OASAP || Bag:  YSL || Shoes:  Wild Diva || Skirt:  c/o Grey State  || Shirt:  Charlotte Russe || Tights:  Hanes

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Workwear Wednesday: The Printed Tunic

I'm super excited to partner up with Old Navy again on Sensible Stylista.  If you missed my previous collab with them, clicky here.  For today's OOTD, I styled a semi-cozy winter look for y'all.  This winter's been cray - it's super warm one day and straight up freezing the next.  It's seriously giving me whiplash.  I honestly kind of wish mother nature would make up her mind!  If she ever does though, I hopes she goes with the former not the latter, ha.

Anywho, I centered today's outfit around two classic staples that are both available at Old Navy:  a B&W printed tunic and a pair of black high-rise zip pants.  Although both items are cute, I really, REALLY recommend buying the bottoms because they're seriously the cutest and comfiest dress pants I own.  That's saying a lot because I own a gazillion pairs!  These are made of 95% cotton and 5% spandex so you have some give - the medium-weight twill has added stretch.  The cut's very flattering, too - there are central seams that run down the front and back leg elongating your figure. The vented ankle backs add a fun but chic touch!  FYI, I'm wearing a size 2 - I'd say it's comparable to a 25-26.  Also, make sure you guys take advantage of their current promo!  They're offering an extra 20% off with code MORE4LESS.  Run, don't walk, because this ends today!

Vest:  Sosie ($49.95) || Pants:  c/o Old Navy ($27) || Top:  c/o Old Navy ($15.97) || Watch + Bracelet:  The Peach Box || Shoes:  Candie's || Bag:  Badgley Mischka

One last thing before I leave you guys - I shared my first official solo piano video on YouTube yesterday.  I'm going to be much more active on my channel this year so make sure y'all subscribe. Also, let me know if you have any requests for vlogs and whatnot!

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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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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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