Borrowed from the Boys

Beanie, Banana Republic (old) / Shirt, BCBG / Jeans, Rachel Rachel Roy / Clutch, BCBG / Shoes, Banana Republic / Sunglasses, Marc Jacobs / Nails, Essie "Recessionista"

There's something so very laid-back cool about a slightly oversized plaid shirt I've always been drawn to. I can remember stealing my dad's work shirts in elementary school back in the early '90s, when Nirvana, Pearl Jam and other grunge bands made the lumberjack fabric mainstream. And in college, I would only buy my plaid shirts from the men's department in order to achieve that same loose, relaxed feel. I have since stopped borrowing from the boys, but I still can't resist pairing even my girliest plaid with more masculine items, such as distressed jeans, a slouchy beanie and heavy metal touches like chains and studs, to help balance out the mix.

 

 

 

Horsin' Around

Hat, Vintage, from Catherine's Closet Vintage Boutique / Jacket, Victoria's Secret / Top, Banana Republic / Pants, Banana Republic / Boots, Nine West / Gloves, Target / Scarf, Thrifted / Lips, Revlon "Orange Flip"

I've found that the best Halloween costumes are often those that take the least planning. I've had this jockey cap for years and years, having acquired it from a local vintage shop on a whim, and have only used it as decoration in my closet up until now. With the addition of a few other wardrobe staples -- a cropped blazer, white button-down, stirrup pants and riding boots -- and a toy horse that really whinnies and neighs, my last-minute costume came together without a hitch, and I have to say may be one of my favorites yet.

 

Into the Woods

Top, Old Navy (old) / Faux Fur Vest, Target (old) / Jeans, Rock & Republic / Boots, Nine West / Bag, Michael Kors (old) / Sunglasses, Fendi / Cuff, Off Saks / Watch, Michael Kors / Ring, Vintage / Lipstick, Revlon "Orange Flip" + Kat Von D "Stiletto"

Being surrounded by nature has always had a calming effect on me, and this past weekend I finally had the opportunity to take a few moments to go for a walk in the woods near our home and decompress. Dark clouds and a brisk breeze created an spooky, "Sleeping Hallow" vibe, which made me even happier to be spending some much-needed time outdoors. For my walk, I opted for light layers -- jeans, a striped top and faux fur vest (acquired from the little girls' section!) -- and riding boots that provided enough comfort to run, climb and jump yet still were still stylish so we could drop into the neighborhood cafe and grab a holiday-flavored coffee on the way home.

 

 

Not Your Average Holiday Sweater

Sweater, Lucky Brand Jeans (old, similar here and here) / Jeans, Forever 21 (old) / Loafers, R2 Shoes via T.J. Maxx / Bag, Dooney & Burke, major score from the swap meet / Watch, Michael Kors

I bought this sweater years and years ago, and it has definitely become a piece I find myself pulling out of the closet on a regular basis this time of year. The large face on the front reminds me of the Tippi Hedren character from the classic Hitchcock film "The Birds," and the weight is just right to keep me warm once the sun goes down. When paired with burnt orange skinnies and sparkly spiked loafers, this look just screams effortless Halloween chic (no pun intended).

Black Swan

BCBG Dress (old, similar styles here & here), Saks Fifth Avenue Shoes, Alfani Clutch, Banana Republic Earrings (old)

I love to play dress up, but my day-to-day life hardly warrants anything fancier than a clean pair of pants and a blouse. This past weekend, however, the S-man and I attended a sunset wedding by the beach, which welcomed the perfect excuse for me to pull out one of my favorite cocktail dresses for the occasion. I bought this dress nearly four years ago and from the moment I put it on, I knew it would be a piece that would last me for years. The fitted bodice of black satin that blooms into a fuller skirt reminds me of something a ballerina would wear, and the swaths of fabric at the hips and subtle peplum in the back only add to the feeling of being an elegant swan. Needless to say I did not want the clock to strike midnight and summon the end to the fairy tale.

Sudden Shift

Mossimo Supply Co. Jacket (old), Boots (old) & Backpack; James Perse Tee (old); bar III Jeggings (old); Michael Kors Watch

Even though Hawaii doesn't have traditional seasons, there was a sudden shift in the weather this past week, signaling the end of a hot, humid summer and the beginnings of what promises to be a chilly and blustery fall. I gladly welcomed the change, as this is my favorite time of year, for many reasons: wearing layers in rich and cozy fabrics; running through puddles on rainy mornings; watching decorations go up for the approaching holidays. While it is still a bit warm to pull out my heavy sweaters just yet, I still got a little excited to incorporate a jacket and combat boots with my go-to T-shirt and jeans. I can only wait with eager anticipation as these next few weeks come and go and "fall" truly makes its official arrival in the islands.