one skirt, three ways | episode two

When I was in elementary school, my mother was absolutely off her rocker and obsessed with my hairstyle and clothing choices. She'll brag to me about this to this day, it's unsettling. Anyway, one day she let me pick my own clothing out. Naturally, I opted for black leggings, Ked's, and a thick, wool blend Beauty and the Beast cardigan with gold buttons. She approved and sent me on my way. Of course, me being the little asshole I was (still am) I walked off the school bus at the end of the day with that chunky cardi tucked into my leggings. She almost fainted, and her hands still sweat when she tells the story.

The point being, this sweater with this skirt reminded me of that story because it's a little big and quite heavy (and would be ridiculous tucked into leggings). However, I'm still into the half tuck with skirts, and I think the proportions work really well. I also adore the quilted satin finish on the front and the mesh cutouts on the sleeves. TJ Maxx came through for me again. To me, this is a really smart way to wear an oversized piece while still flattering your figure.

sweater: cotton innovation via tj maxx | skirt: target | shoes: cole haan ... worth mentioning these are still comfy at 5 p.m. | nails: sally hensen miracle gel

a few brews

I've had a wicked cold all week, but that must have been what I needed to start this blog today. That, and the push from one of my best friends (you know who you are!) spurred me to beg my very confused boyfriend to take pictures of me in our backyard. Have to start somewhere, right?

Anyway, today was a somewhat special day at work. A local brewery is expanding and my firm is designing the new building, something that will hopefully revitalize a part of the city that desperately needs it. The event was outside and my job was to network a little, but mostly live tweet as the mayor and other individuals spoke. It's super windy and generally autumnal today, so I'd like to show you my outerwear (what I ended up wearing to the event) and my office attire. Onto the photos and outfit deets!

First, the obvious selfie as I waited for my boyfriend. Hi!

What am I supposed to do with my arms? No, seriously, I turned around to ask as he took this photo.

Sweater: J.Crew

I scored this last Friday on lunch. It was on the sale rack, yes! and another 40% off, (in my best Nicki Minaj voice...) yaaaas!

Pants: Old Navy

I really abhor the quality and sizing consistency at ON, but these have served me pretty well as I continue to lose weight. Also, let me say these are pants, even though my muscular calves will have you believe they're leggings. 

Shoes: Softt

Do these things really look that ragged? Eeeks. They are a year old or so and were a Nordstrom Rack score. They are incredibly comfortable and a great fall staple because of the suede and patent wedge. Oh, also, give me a bow? I'm buying it.

Sunglasses: Prada

Bracelet: J.Crew

Bag: Louis Vuitton

Oh, and my jacket is Cole Haan -- a recent Costco find. My Burberry-like scarf is amazing and from Lord and Taylor.