Navy Head to Toe

Navy Head to Toe

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blog 6[Outfit Details: Top: J.Crew; Vest: TJX; Skirt: J.Crew Factory; Belt: J.Crew; Shoes: Matisse via DSW; Earrings: Thrifted vintage]

Recently, I’ve been digging a monochromatic look. I also simultaneously realized the plethora of navy shirts in my closet. Apparently I have a good thing going? Not opposed to it, especially since I’m one to preach buying what you love and feel most yourself in.

On another note, I’m trying to savor these few transitional weeks we have (cough, spring is finally here, cough) with as much layering as possible. Time for vests, belts, and the final question, “how do things lay,” rather than our forthcoming “can I get away with wearing this to work, maintain a normal body temperature, and appear office aprops?”

What spring look do you all find yourselves gravitating towards? We only have a few more weeks to savor it friends; I’d love to hear your inclinations!

 

The little vest that could

The little vest that could

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Image[Outfit Details: Top: J.Crew; Vest: J.Crew Factory; Jeans: F21; Flats: Urban Outfitters; Trench: London Fog; Scarf: Random (Market find!)]

I would never have thought that this little denim vest would find its’ way into my closet, but needless to say it did, and I’m in love. Despite my initial ambivalence and approval seeking (ask my best friend … ) I’ve come to terms that this is yet another denim piece that I’ll reach for time and time again.

Obviously it’s great for layering in the breezy, yet sunny, spring. I wore it 2 out of 2 days this weekend (read: the whole time). If you’re concerned about the ‘I-may-not-be-cool-enough-to-wear-this’ fear, believe me you are. This is a trend yes, but it’s also a classic American look that’s timeless.

A few tips (if you’re considering being in the “vest acquiring’ camp)–

Look for a slightly shrunken style. You’d don’t to be overtaken by this garment; consider it the sprinkles on the cake, not the icing (if that’s a applicable metaphor) …

Choose a wash that fits your wardrobe. I like a lighter wash since the majority of my denim bottoms are medium to darker. Obviously there’s more to wear than just double denim, but remember your overall aesthetic when choosing a piece.

Have I converted any of you yet? You’ll be seeing this one again …. so stay tuned! xo

A new season (Outfit + my thoughts)

A new season (Outfit + my thoughts)

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[Outfit Details: Coat: H&M; Blouse: Gap Outlet; Skirt: F21; Flats: Calvin Klein; Rings: Etsy, Catbird]

Gravitating towards looks with lots of texture, and layers/loving that I go sans tights!

You may have noticed a break in my posts recently which I could account to many things. I try to keep a separation from my blog and personal life, but every once in a while the two become intertwined. In this past year I’ve started a demanding new job, which is a definite step forward in my career, and I am thankful for that. I’ve also had to say goodbye to my Dad after a long battle with cancer.

All this to say, I haven’t felt the same draw, or desire to share and discuss style. My energy has been taken up by emotion and moving forward through each work week. On Steeped in Style I’ve noticed a theme that I often talk about; seasonal dressing. What works for one season may not work for the next. Whether it’s a color, texture, or silhouette, our reaction to the environment is always in motion.

Without getting too reflective and deep, I feel that this season that I’m walking through is still going to be a good one, even thought I’m still processing the experience. I believe that sometimes you have to walk straight through the valley of sorrow, self-doubt, and pain to come through the other side. I also hold onto the truth that with our greater capacity to experience grief, we also can experience more joy, hope and love. I have faith in God’s direction and hand on my journey. There is a time for all things–

There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens:

a time to be born and a time to die,
a time to plant and a time to uproot,
a time to kill and a time to heal,
a time to tear down and a time to build,
a time to weep and a time to laugh,
a time to mourn and a time to dance,

a time to scatter stones and a time to gather them,
a time to embrace and a time to refrain from embracing,
a time to search and a time to give up,
a time to keep and a time to throw away,

a time to tear and a time to mend,
a time to be silent and a time to speak,
a time to love and a time to hate,
a time for war and a time for peace.

Ecclesiastes 3: 1-8

I’m still looking to use this space as a place to explore style, and express the things that make my day brighter. I hope you’ll all continue on this ride with me–where we can focus on the good in our days. 

Sincerely,

Grace

Neutral brights

Neutral brights

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[Outfit Details: Shirt: J.Crew; Jeans: Madewell; Shoes: Nine West; Necklace: Anthropologie; Coat: J.Crew; Scarf: T.J. Maxx)

This weekend brought some rare, beautiful, 50-degree weather. Don’t worry guys, I reveled in it. Despite the neon trends wax and wan over the past few season, I still think a few choice pieces can be introduced in a suble way to any outfit.

I used neutral dark jeans and rich camel tones, to both enhance and calm the neon effort, as to not look too highter party ready. I’d also love to try a similar look with a navy base (we all know of my affinity for an all-navy outfit by now).

What do you all think, will you be brushing out those neon pieces again for another season?

Health, Naturally

Health, Naturally

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[Epsom salts, Apple Cider Vinegar Toner, Apple Cider Vinegar]

I like beauty products as much as the next girl, but in the ever illusive quest to simplify I’ve made an effort to use some household and natural products instead of what’s lurking inside my beauty drawer. I’m aiming for health naturally, in the long run.

There is so much research out there about how Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV) can be used to cleanse your body internally and externally as an acidic antibacterial source. Make a tea with 1 tablespoon ACV per 1 mug of steaming hot water (add honey if you need to deintensify the taste) and sip up to two times daily. For topical use, take an old glass jar (I used a mason #trendy) and fill it half-and-half with ACV and water. Use this mixture as a toner nightly after you cleanse, and before you moisturize.

Health Benefits-

– detoxifies body of bacteria (can cause acne, warts, and other annoyances.)

– cleanses the skin surface (ACV with “The Mother” reduces sebum creation, improves overall skin tone, and promotes skin regrowth)
Note: Braggs apple cider vinegar and other organic formulas contain the mother (basically a pure concentration of ACV)

In an effort to relax, and take time to rejuvenate, bath time has become “a thing.” Epsom salts relax muscles and pull toxins out the body. Plus with lavendar aromatherapy, light a few candles, put on the Norah Jones and saillllll away.

Granted, I know this health post isn’t all encompassing, and alternative methods lack scientific backing, but out of curiosity, I’m always game to try.

Have any of you had any luck with the above, or any other natural health routines?  

Jumpsuit (Winter edition)

Jumpsuit (Winter edition)

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Image [Outfit Details: Jumpsuit: Target (old); Sweater: TJ Maxx; T-shirt: Target; Heels: Franco Sart0; Necklace: Bauble Bar]

You know what they say about jumpsuits … once you have one, you’ll be forever loyal. Okay, so no one really says that but sometimes actions speak volumes over phraseology. Obviously jumpsuits, rompers, etc. were huge this summer and fall, and the look is not slinking away while the S/S ’14 looks parade in.

If you’re not on the bandwagon yet, this is your moment. Let’s be honest, does it even look like I’m wearing a jumpsuit? For those of you who would never consider a jumpsuit hear me on this one: no, no! With essential winter layers, you can transition this piece into your wardrobe without being too blatant about it. If you’re on the fence about trying this look out, consider the following.

Jumpsuits provide:

Ease of dressing – you know that dress you throw on when you have little-to-no-time to get ready in the morning? Consider a jumpsuit for those situations, but the equivalent of what your cooler friends/cousin/co-worker would throw on.

Universally flattering – it doesn’t matter if you’re curvy, straight and tall, thin, or full-figured, the jumpsuit will forgive, forgive, forgive! Most pieces have a draped front, tie-waist, and hit at a flattering point on the female figure. Add to that the slim cut pants, and I ensure you’ll look amazing.

Layering potential – Cost-per-way gold mine my friends. If you’re into a pieces’ longevity listen up. In summer you can wear this piece as is, while in the fall/winter/spring, layer with knit  sweaters, jackets, blazers, etc. If you want to play up the silky bottoms, cuff your jumpsuit and add a killer pair of heels, for a brand new look.

Hopefully some of that rant hit some readers out there. What do you all think about the jumpsuit for winter? Share away!

It was all yellow

It was all yellow

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[Outfit Details: Button down: thrifted; Skirt: Old Navy; Jacket: American Eagle; Boots: Unisa; Lipstick: Clinique Peony]

I don’t have a ton of explanation for this look; the truth is I’ve had a hard week, I wanted to infuse a little “happy” in my day, and this occured. I can always trust polka dots, navy blue, and my Paddington toggle coat to brighten my day.

Happy Wedneday!

Lace slip dress

Lace slip dress

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Image[Outfit Details: Slip Dress: Topshop; Jeans: Forever 21; Boots: Gap; Sweater: Gap; Coat: J.Crew; Gloves: Ralph Lauren]

You guys, I’m really sacrificing here to share this outfit, that’s how much I love it. Even if it’s freezing cold outside, and I’m taking pictures with a tripod in the streets (awkwardly, might I add), that’s what I will do for the sake of fashion. While perusing my typical fashion blogs, I read a great post by Who What Wear about winter layering. One of the inspirations used slip dresses (which might be the only 90’s inspired fashion trend I will buy into this time around). I’ve had one lying around since my time studying abroad, and thought layering this one-time clubbing dress would give it a second lease of life.

The unique layering of a slip underneath a turtle neck or oversized sweater, paired with lace or zipper details is so fresh. It’s this type of creative styling that’s truly going to get me through the remaining 2 months of winter …

What do you all think? What’s your creative layering solution this winter?

A shirt of possibilities (Part III)

A shirt of possibilities (Part III)

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Image[Outfit Details: Shirt: Banana Republic; Jacket: Zara; Jeans: Paige; Boots: Franco Sarto]

Surprise, surprise. I proved my own points (see them here, and here) this week while donning this outfit. I literally didn’t even consider my previous outfit posts, and inadvertently found myself wearing the Canadian tuxedo I mentioned. Oh, the irony.

This jacket is a favorite from Zara last year, especially with it’s dusty old professor feel, elbow patches included. So my dears, have I provided any more outfit inspiration for you all? My two-part series has become a three-part one, so I hope the answer is yes.

Here are my shoppable denim picks-

Joie Women’s Cartel Chambray Button Down Shirt
Levi’s Women’s Annie Western Top

Enjoy your weekend and I hope there’s a touch of denim in there.