Fabric, Frills + Lace

What is summer without the romper? Though the fashion staple has been around since the 1900's, I did not take an interest in incorporating the one piece into my wardrobe until high school. I found these adorable floral rompers that ad enough space for my thighs—an important distinction when choosing any fashion piece. But, the pleats! Hitting right at my hip, the pleats exaggerated my width and a very unflattering way. From then on, I was anti-romper. After living in Japan, and seeing more drop-waist or A-line waist rompers sans pleats, I was interested in slowly increasing the amount of rompers I owned. Of course, the practical side of me argues you'll never wear these to work (especially the one I'm showcasing here). Yet, I've managed to wear this silk, baby blue romper from Urban Outfitters at least four times in the last two months. Full outfit for ultimate viewing. My only problem with this cute score from Urban's sale rack is the liberties take...

I did not intend to come off looking like a school teacher, or, for that matter, a student. Yet, after looking at my outfit, that's all I can think about. The geometric print on the ModCloth dress with the deep shade of blue did not help matters. Bright yellow colors can also be associated with school buses and number 2 pencils. I'm sure all of that combined together, helped to make me look like a grade school TA. Not that I mind that look. In fact I think it made me look festive at today's holiday brunch. This all started because I wanted to wear the cool vintage sweater I bought in Shimokitazawa while I was living in Japan. Shimoks, for short, is hipster central; there are underground record stores, closet-sized art galleries, and vintage clothing stores galore. This sweater was such a good buy because it has metal buttons, and actually closes. Really I fell in love with the pattern, which I know, for some, can be hard to match with. A year later, after...

When the temperature starts dropping below 50 Fahrenheit, I get really excited. The fall and winter air carries a magic spell. They're the seasons of layering. You may love your giant, wool, cable-knit sweater, but there is no worst feeling than wearing that same sweater inside an overheated office. That's why I try to look for dresses made of light fabric, dresses that can be paired with sweater, scarves, gloves, and a warm coat. Five years ago, I left Deep South Texas for the East Coast and had a rude awakening. In my hometown, winter is mild; if it gets below fifty degrees, we bring out the mink coats and snow boots—don’t even as us how we drive when there’s ice on the road. Naturally, none of my winter outfits were durable enough for New England weather. I had to learn the importance of cashmere, 100% wool, and fleece-lined tights on my own. That’s why I love this outfit. Don’t let the short hemline fool you. Underneath the plaid Urban Outfitters dress are flee...