the damage: may & june!

At the end of each month this year I am planning to pause to take a look at my spending as it's related to my closet. I call these posts "the damage." Each month my target budget is $300 and only 5 pieces of clothing or shoes. I chose 5 items because I am working on making my closet a more curated place and also to try to put an end to the constant closet clean outs where loads of clothes get sent to charity. Not that there is anything wrong with giving clothes to charity, it's just that I hope to make my clothes last longer in general. For some this budget may sound like a lot and for others it may not... for me personally this is my monthly goal. It works for my budget and lifestyle and doesn't break the bank. Shopping budgets are a personal thing, but I share mine here to show how I stretch my budget and work to create a well curated and fully stocked closet.

I didn't post a "damage" post for May because when I sat down to write posts I realized I hadn't shopped all month… then on the last day of the month I found myself randomly (the closest one is an hour and a half from my house) in a J.Crew Factory store - oops.  So that happened.  I only bought a few things there and just a few things more this month and decided to just put the two months together.  Technically I purchased three pieces in May and five in June and because I was way OVER budget in April (seen here) I was way UNDER budget for both May and June.  Also, summer shopping tends to be a little cheaper this time of year as tees, tanks and shorts are generally less expensive than jeans and sweaters, etc. so that helps the budget a ton.

J.Crew Factory, striped peplum top, $78 with discounts was $15.99

J.Crew Factory, red striped top, $42.50 with discounts was $19.99

J.Crew Factory, chambray popover, $68 with discounts was $34

J.Crew, eyelet front linen blend top, $59.50 with discounts was $26.99

Gap, distressed denim shorts, $49.95 with discounts was $29.97

Gap, boyfriend roll up shorts, $39.95 with discounts was $23.97

J.Crew, new balance 620 sneakers, $80.00

J.Crew, une belle vie tee, $49.50 with discounts was $ 23.99

Total Spent: $254.90 (total saved: $212.50)

Some thoughts on the budget: Like I mentioned, after going WAY over budget in April I knew I needed to rein it in these past couple of months - and that I did! Trying to not shop these past couple of months was easier than I thought it would be with the busy-ness of summer and warmer temps that make you want to be outside and not shopping!  For the year I am probably right on track for averaging $300 a month even with the gross overages of April. So I am feeling good about that.

Some thoughts on the pieces: I needed some new summer pieces that would be super versatile for time with the kids, vacations and everyday wear.  These pieces totally fit those needs.  I will say I am a terrible summer shopper. I almost have to force myself to buy tees and tank and shorts… I always tend towards jeans and long sleeve shirts - I even got two longer sleeved type tops this month! Which is admittedly kind of crazy to wear on 80 degree days but as much as I love shorts and tanks I will be the first to admit I don't always feel super comfortable in them.  So my closet always needs more because I don't find buying them very "fun".  June usually marks the end of my "summer shopping" season because next month I usually start thinking about fall (crazy, right!?!) so I'm glad I did squeeze a few new pairs of shorts and tees this month.  

Remember if you want to see all the past months of shopping budgets… those posts are here!

my everyday style: summer inspiration!

Today I have a healthy dose of summer wardrobe inspiration for you… straight from the archives.  Because everyone loves some re-runs now and again!

(above: similar striped top, similar shorts)

(above: similar shorts, similar chambray, animal print sandals)

(above: similar shorts, similar shoes, similar bag)

(above: similar chambray, similar shorts, similar necklace)

(above: similar shorts, similar chambray, shoes)

(above: similar top, similar shorts, shoes)

personal style: find yours! (a new series and announcement!)

Years and years and years ago I did a series on finding your personal style that was unfortunately short lived.  A lot of my readers at the time really enjoyed the series and found it very helpful in defining their personal style.

I find that my own personal style covers a few different genres of style - and I am sure you may find the same thing - the combination of different defined styles is what makes your own style so unique.  Today I am kicking off a new series to help you nail down what your personal style is or what styles you are naturally drawn to, this should help make getting dressed each day and shopping for clothes much much easier now and over the long term.

While there are infinite types of styles, here I zoned in on five of the styles that are most popular this season from my point of view.  With this blog I try to focus on the styles and trends that I feel most comfortable with so that I can really hone in on what I know and do best.

So read on for lots of inspiration and an exciting announcement below…

Boho

Boho is carefree and relaxed, often overtly feminine and plays off of lots of unique details to make this look successful.  Details like lace, floral and fringe can be added with closet basics like white tees and denim shorts to pull off this look. 

(get the boho look: dress, kimono style cardigan, purse, earrings, necklace, scarf, sandals, jeans shorts, image inspiration)

Casual

Laid back and relaxed pieces define casual style.  Sweatshirts, relaxed cuts of denim and simplicity make this look work.  To make this look successful make sure pieces are well fitting and add in a refined piece like a watch or jacket to still look relaxed and pulled together.

(get the casual look: striped dress, denim jacket, sneakers, sweatshirt, leather clutch, short-alls, watch, belt, image inspiration)

Classic

Beautiful pieces that stand the test of time make for classic style.  Leopard, denim, oxfords and accessory staples like flats and simple jewelry create a classic wardrobe. Simplicity and beauty is key.

(get the classic look: jeans, sunglasses, oxford top, bracelet, clutches, handbag, flats, image inspiration)

Modern

Modern style takes the classics and adds a little trend to them to make them pop.  So revisions on the classics with a trendy feel will pull off the modern style.  Think classic black dresses in new silhouettes or trendy accessories like the hottest shoes and purses paired with gorgeous basics. 

(get the modern look: black/white top, black peplum top, white shorts, black dress, flats, clutch, necklace, image inspiration)

Preppy

Preppy style is similar to classic style in that the pieces and looks are timeless, but preppy tends towards a more collegiate or nautical style alongside the classics.  Think stripes, East Coast flair, layers, plaids, reds/blues/whites/pinks and a monogram or two.

(get the preppy look: monogramed bangle, white denim shorts, striped sweater, red tote, sundress, jacket, sperry, image inspiration)

In addition to launching this awesome new series here on the blog (look for it about once a month on the blog!) I am bringing back my much loved and requested wardrobe consultation services as well!  These consults will now be centered around finding and shopping for your personal style (or combos of styles).  For all the details and pricing information… click here!

my everyday style: denim blues!

The easiest summer outfit formula is this… grab all the blue things in your closet and go!

Kidding, kind of.  But seriously, it works!  This is the time of the summer when I already feel like I am grabbing for the same shorts and t-shirt constantly.  I have to remind myself to mix it up a bit and for me, grabbing a dress - which isn't always my natural choice - is just the way to keep my outfits feeling fresh.  Plus, what's easier than a dress and navy blue?

(photos by Jennifer Ketchum)

Details:
Chambray Dress, J.Crew (similar, LOVE this one or less expensive version)
Striped Sweater, J.Crew (old but similar or similar)
Purse, J.Crew (similar or similar or less expensive option)
Shoes, Sperry - on super sale!
Sunglasses, Ray Ban

retailer I love… J.Crew Factory!

You ladies know already that I have a pretty strong love for J.Crew Factory.  We've talked about the pros and cons of the brand before on the blog (see here for the most in-depth review and read the comments too if you are curious about how others feel about this brand) but for me the pros have always outweighed the cons.  Especially lately.  I recently went to a store (whereas I usually shop online) and was thrilled with the quality and beauty of the pieces in person.  One of the cons of the J.Crew Factory line is that their online store doesn't do the best of showcasing the pieces to their full extent.  I will make a blanket statement though and say that 99.99% of the items I have gotten from J.Crew Factory are BETTER in person than they look online.

Speaking of shopping online, everything is 30% off today at J.Crew Factory (ending tonight, so hurry!) which is a great deal in my book! Here are some of my top picks for summer… because while the warm weather has been around for a while, there is still plenty of summer shopping to be done! (who's with me!?!?)

Shop away ladies!

top row: 

striped sweater with gold buttons, wear now with shorts or white jeans!

striped dress with patch pockets, wear now with sandals and this fall with boots & a denim jacket!

second row: 

graphic tee, I love this tee, perfect with white jeans and sandals!

white purse, I'm having a moment with white purses right now, so gorgeous!

third row:

striped shorts, pair with a white oxford and wedge espadrilles all summer!

light blue peasant top, wear as a bathing suit cover up or with denim shorts and sandals!

bottom row: 

white long sleeved peasant top, pair with jeans for a summer night out!

red striped top, perfect for Fourth of July celebrations!

obsessed with: zip pouches!

I am a sucker for organization. In my house everything has to have a place. Especially when it comes to my clothes and beauty products.  If everything doesn't have a place I find it gets mis-placed… 

This desire for organization has made me mildly obsessed with zip pouches.  I have one in my purse, three in my pool bag and when I am traveling I carry about 10 different ones (they are good to hold chargers and cords, travel paperwork and of course beauty supplies).  These are the ways I most commonly pack my zip pouches… always one in my purse with lip gloss, lotion and a nail file, when I travel I always carry a few nail supplies with me, and then I have one for my everyday makeup needs if I have a busy day away from the house or of course, if I'm traveling.

in my purse for on the go beauty: 

nail file, rose mint lip balm, eos hand lotion, mini stila lip glazes, moxie lip gloss, zipper pouch

for nail necessities on a weekend getaway:

file block, apricot cuticle oil, corrector pen, nail colors: lavender, peach, light blue, zipper pouch

to stash your daily beauty basics:

stila luminizer, nars blush/bronzer combo, well-rested eye cream, mascara, bb cream, zipper pouch

see you around...

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my everyday style: coral crush!

I've got a serious crush on coral for summer.  It all started with this tote I found at the Kate Spade Outlet (in the clearance section even!).  Then I remembered this coral necklace that I got as a gift for Christmas … and since then it's all coral all the time.  I seek it out where ever I am, it always seems to catch my eye and if I find coral nail polish, well, it's a done deal.

Do you fall for colors like that too? 

(photos by Jennifer Ketchum)

Details:

Tee, J.Crew (similar less expensive)

Jeans, Gap - on sale! 

Necklace, J.Crew (gift but similar or this one is really pretty too!)

Sandals, Gap (or similar)

Tote, Kate Spade Outlet (similar or similar colors with stripes!)

Sunglasses, Ray Ban

what to wear to summer weddings!

Summer wedding season is upon us and I've got readers emailing me left and right asking… What to wear? What to wear? If you are wondering what to wear to the summer weddings on your calendar this season, you are not alone!

Every wedding has it's own style.  Some are super laid back and fun while others are more formal and traditional and many are outdoor this time of year as well - which is usually a style all it's own.  Here I pulled together three weddings looks for whatever style wedding you are attending this summer.

get the looks:

garden party: dress, necklace, nail polish, shoes, bracelet, clutch

black tie soiree: dress, shoes, clutch, earrings, bracelet

intimate & outdoor: dress, earrings, wedges, clutch, lip gloss

my everyday style: bejeweled!

Every once in a while a gal needs some extra bling in her life… right!?!? When I walked into my closet on this particular day I asked myself… 'What can I pair with this jeweled top? How about a jeweled jacket!' 

I'm officially bejeweled. 

In other news… black shorts have officially become my go-to this summer.  Who would've thought? They seem to go with everything and this super breezy linen pair are the ultimate in comfort as well.  Do you own a pair of black shorts? I never thought I would get so many wears out of this pair.  A pleasant surprise indeed! 

Details:
Camo jacket, Zara (old but similar less expensive or similar on sale!)
Jeweled top, J.Crew
Shorts, Old Navy (℅ - last year, but similar or these are cute too!)
Sandals, J.Crew (similar or similar less expensive)
Bag, Madewell - on sale!

3 business casual summer outfit formulas!

One of the most common questions that I get from readers is for advice on how to make getting dressed for work outside of the home easier!  So today I am answering the common question "What are some great business casual outfit formulas for the warmer months?"

It's been quite a few years since I have been working in an office environment but, like dressing for the weekend or for working at home, the trick for making getting dressed simple each day is having a few formulas on hand.   Here are three of my go-to business casual formulas for warmer months:

• A navy blazer with white trousers.  This outfit has endless combinations depending on the shoes and the top you choose.  Here I used a striped top - but you could choose a floral tank or solid oxford for tons of different options all summer long.
• A black wrap dress with neutral accessories.  Having a black wrap dress in your closet is definitely a secret weapon when getting dressed for the office.  You can pair it with gold or silver bracelets or necklace, a neutral handbag and neutral shoes and it's instantly classic and a super easy outfit to pull together.
• A bold and bright top and scarf combo with black trousers.  This outfit is as simple as it gets! Pair your brightest top with a pair of black trousers and a fun scarf and you are office ready in a snap.

get the look above: trousers, blazer, striped top, clutch, shoes, monogram necklace

get the look above: wrap dress, bracelet, eye glasses, purse, shoes (love these!)

get the look above: earrings, trousers, sweater, scarf, bag, shoes

how to style a striped blazer three ways!

A lot of readers - myself included! - ohh'd and ahh'd over this striped blazer from Monday's post.  It's laid back feel is perfect for wearing all summer long as an extra layer for style or warmth as needed.

I've always said that if you when it comes time to add new pieces to your wardrobe you should always try to picture it in three outfits first before buying.  Here I styled this striped blazer into three great looks for whatever summer brings your way!  It works great on a casual friday at the office, with white shorts and a tee for weekends or over top of a simple sun dress for a casual wedding, Sunday church or a summer party of any sort!

This blazer is definitely versatile enough for anyone's wardrobe… which look do you most likely see yourself wearing?

business casual look: trousers, tee, blazer, necklace, shoes, bag

weekend chic look: sunglasses, white shorts, graphic tee, blazer, sneakers, tote

party ready look: navy dress, blazer, earrings, fold over clutch, shoes

my everyday style: eyelet shorts!

These eyelet shorts are by far one of my favorite summer pieces… I'm not going to lie, I was super excited to break these out this year! Don't you love those types of pieces?  They feel a little bit "homey" and make the change in the seasons fun.  While I love to buy new clothes seasonally, there is always something a little special about pulling out the old favorites from seasons past as well.  Don't you think?

Blue and white has got to be one of my all time favorite color combos for outfits lately. I always say it's black and white, but then when I go to get dressed each morning blue (any and all shades) is what I more naturally gravitate towards. For instance: this outfit, this outfit and this outfit.  Do you have natural tendencies like that as well?

So naturally this blue and white outfit with a touch of eyelet and casual loose layers is one of my favorites. I never would have thought an oxford would be such a great summer piece… but with the sleeves rolled up (or rolled up further) it's as breezy as a t-shirt and I would say even more comfortable.

 (photos by Jennifer Ketchum)

Details:

Top, H&M (similar, similar or similar)

Shorts, Forever 21 (last summer - but similar, similar or similar less expensive)

Denim Jacket, American Eagle - ℅ (last fall - but similar)

Sandals, Sole Society

Watch, Michael Kors - on sale! (or similar less expensive)

Sunglasses, Ray Ban (similar less expensive)

see you around...

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what to pack: weekend in the city!

A reader recently emailed me about her upcoming weekend trip to New York City this summer - she was curious about what to pack!  Weekend vacations in the summer are SO fun… especially when they involve big cities.  I always love to visit Chicago in the summer and a while back I did a weekend trip to New York City myself in the summer.  There is always so much to see and do in big cities and with warm temperatures it makes for a great weekend of strolling and discovering, shopping and eating, and absorbing all the fun and energy a big city has!

New York City in the summer is HOT (or least it really can be!) but there is plenty of shade between buildings and in Central Park.  When considering what to pack for a weekend in New York City I recommend going for light layers and easy to wear pieces.  Footwear is the biggest challenge in New York City in my opinion.  I usually like to wear flip flops for comfort on vacation and even for long walking days (call me crazy, but Havainas feel like sneakers to me!) but if you wear open shoes/sandals prepare for your shoes and your feet to get CRAZY dirty in NYC.  I remember actually throwing my sandals away - ewwwww!  So pack closed toe shoes or be prepared to part with your sandals at the end of the trip if need be - here I included some inexpensive sandals for just that reason!  Other necessities include a tote for daytime shopping and walking and a small cross-body bag for evenings and of course a few lightweight layers like a jacket and scarf.

1. black shorts 2. white gauze top 3. jacket 4. sleeveless chambray top 5. sundress 6. leopard espadrilles 7. distressed denim 8. "amazing" tee 9. denim shorts 10. fedora style hat 11. sandals 12. cross body bag 13. tote 14. scarf

Do you have some fun weekend trips coming up this summer? Do tell!

see you around...

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my everyday style: wide leg jeans!

I absolutely love wearing wide leg jeans… but I only have ONE pair of shoes that are tall enough to wear this particular pair that I own - these wedges!  That means I have to sneak in wearing these wide leg jeans in the spring and summer.  Since I wear mostly skinny jeans, wide leg jeans feel like pjs almost… my calves! so free! Do you feel the same?

Also, we need to talk about this sweater!  I bought this at the Madewell event I attended with friends earlier this spring.  This sweater is an absolute dream. It's a super flattering knit that is a little thicker than your average sweater so that it doesn't cling or bunch.  Each one of my friends that tried this on looked AMAZING in it no matter their body type.  And this has got to be one of my favorite sweaters that I own right now.  Plus, it's on sale right now - so hurry over and snag one!  I would say it runs true to size - I am usually between a XS and S and I picked it up in a S so it would have a more relaxed fit - just FYI.

(photos by Jennifer Ketchum)

Details:
Side-zip striped sweater, Madewell
Necklace, Dear Prudence
Jeans, Gap
Wedges, Sole Society (similar or similar)
Bag, J.Crew Tillary Tote (old but similar or similar or similar less expensive)

see you around...

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summer = all stripes… all the time!

There is something about summer that makes all stripes all the time perfectly acceptable - and not only acceptable but down right crave worthy.  Striped shoes and dresses and bathing suits and more. Don't even bother trying to hold back… it's summer!  I say go for it with your favorite striped pieces all summer long.

1. striped blazer 2. striped scarf 3. striped shift dress 4. striped rash guard swim top 5. striped flip flops 6. striped cardigan 7. striped iphone case 8. striped watch 9. striped swim top & bottom 10. striped sweater 11. striped zip pouch 12. striped shorts 13. striped tote 14. striped tank 15. striped slip-on sandals

see you around...

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now that's one STYLISH dad!

Father's Day is right around the corner… not only a sure sign that we are in the midst of summer but also a great time of year to spoil the dads in your life.  For all those fathers whose specialty is Saturday breakfast, playing catch in the backyard, a strong shoulder to lean on, building forts on rainy days or all around dependable guy… makes sure he is looking stylish this Father's Day with the Guy's Friends and Family Day at Macy's.  Today through June 9 enjoy 25% off your purchase using the code: FRIEND to stock up on seriously stylish duds for that awesome dad in your life!

Here are my top picks for stylish dads of all kinds… 

1. striped tee 2. plaid shirt 3. cargo shorts 4. converse all-star shoes 5. watch 6. leather briefcase 7. striped shirt 8. baseball cap 9. striped tie 10. turtle tie 11. sneakers 12. jeans 13. jacket

This post was created in partnership with Shopstyle and Macy's. Opinions are my own.

Don't forget to use promo code: FRIEND to save 25% off your Father's Day finds!

my everyday style: jeans in the summer!

Confession: I still love wearing jeans in the summer!  I do… call me crazy.  Of course, not for days that I am outside all day or working in the garden or hanging with the kids.  But days that I will be running errands and in and out of a/c all day or nights when I head out without kids for dinner, etc.  It almost seems like a little treat to have my legs covered all day… you know?

Here jeans and sandals seemed like the perfect match with this laid back linen tank. So am I the only crazy one that still pulls out the denim from time to time in the summer?

(photos by Jennifer Ketchum Photography)

Details:
Tank, Madewell - on sale! (similar less expensive or similar with sleeves and SO cute!)
Jeans, Gap - back in stock!! So many of you asked about these and they are back! Yay!
Bracelet, Towne & Reese - ℅ old (similar)
Clutch, J.Crew Factory (similar)
Sandals, J.Crew - on sale! (similar or similar less expensive)

see you around...

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