The Tartan Scarf

I didn't mean to start neglecting this blog before I even got it off the ground but it has been so cold that I've hardly worn anything besides big sweaters and Uggs. And also (and this is the main reason), I have been struggling with the perfectionist in me. Now you wouldn't believe I own this side if you ever witnessed my organizational skills and lack of ability to keep a neat and tidy house but when it comes to things of this nature? It is there. Obnoxiously loud and clear.

On three different occasions this week, I have attempted to put together a post but there is not a lot of natural light in my house and the photos I snapped on the deck just didn't pass inspection. So I thought I'd give it another whirl this morning and was sure I had some really great (super sharp and in focus) shots when I looked at them in the camera display window but then I got them on the laptop and thought, Nooo. No. No. No. These will never do!

But then I remembered that the best things in life are imperfect and that I have always tried to keep it real over at Be Still a Minute so why not just go that route here too. I don't know about you but over-the-top-perfect blogs tend to make me feel a little less-than at times anyway. So here I am, imperfections and all...

You've probably been seeing these blanket/tartan/plaid scarves around because they are all over the place right now. I finally found this one at Amazon and played around with it a little this morning. I seemed to prefer it best just wrapped loosely around the shoulders.  Something about all that fabric around my chest area made me feel ginormous and out of balance. 

Or tied loosely in the front like this seemed to work okay too.

I kept the jewelry simple since the scarf is the star of this outfit.

This cross necklace is a thrift store find. I can't recall where I found these earrings but I wear them all.the.time. 

fringe sweater (found at Ross) similar  // fringe earrings (old) similar // blue long-sleeve tee (Old Navy) // bootcut jeans by Simply Vera Vera Wang (Kohls) // tartan scarf (Amazon) // wedge bootie (DV by Dolce Vita) on sale at Nordstrom, sold out  // similar or exact here at full price 

There is no doubt that I will be revisiting and experimenting further with the tartan scarf. It reminds me of my all-time favorite books, the Outlander series, and that is always a good thing. 

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Pattern Play

One of the best things I've learned from all those hours of scrolling Pinterest over the past few years is that the mixing of different patterns can be unexpectedly awesome if done right. There is definitely some trial and error involved in it for sure but it can be a lot of fun, especially when you put two or three together that bring a pleasing surprise to your eye. 

I was digging around in my closet looking for some items for a pattern play when I came across a polka dot cardigan I had completely forgotten about so I pulled it out, along with a few other different things until I came up with this combination.

I also tried it with this vest purchased from StitchFix last year. But I think I may prefer it better without it.

No idea what was going on with my ability to take a decent-in-focus photograph today but this is about the best I got. Looks like I'm going to have to break down and read that camera manual after all. I've only had the camera for two years now, so ya think? (Never have been on a first name basis with a manual)

  

pink vest: StitchFix // gingham/floral shirt: Old Navy (no longer available) // polka dot cardigan: TJMaxx (I think) // black skinny jeans: Loft (everything is 40% off there right now with code SHAREIT) // wedge bootie: DV by Dolce Vita at Nordstrom // pink stud earrings: Kate Spade, Nordstrom // statement necklace: StitchFix

So how do you feel about pattern play? Yay or nay?

Happy Friday!

For the Love of Leopard

There's just something about a leopard print that makes it hard for me to say no. I realized the other day that I have four different leopard print scarves. Yes, four. Though in my defense, no two are alike. A couple of months ago I set out to find a leopard print coat after pinning pin after pin of them on to my fashion board. And finally, a few weeks ago, I found one I loved online (at a price I could live with) at Forever 21. First clothing item I've purchased from there and I'm really happy with it so far.

Earrings from StitchFix

I came across this little leopard fedora at Kohl's the other day. It was on sale, plus I had a 20 percent off coupon which made me all kinds of giddy. Always have been a hat person at heart. Every time I put one on I wonder why I don't wear them more often.

The top I'm wearing is just a plain, basic (really soft) sweatshirt by BP scored from Nordstrom during their anniversary sale back in July. The corduroy skinny pants are by KUT from the Kloth, also at Nordstrom. 

I've had these bracelets for I don't know how long. Pretty sure they are Forever 21.

Riding boots are by Dana Buchman, Kohls.

Scarf found at Ross last year. 

You can find some crazy deals in there on occasion. 

If you haven't checked it out, you definitely should.

And a little dog too,