Purple Reign 💜

I have pulled out this Carven shirt so many times over the years in prepping for shoots. It’s somehow never made it on the blog until now. This is a great statement blouse in that it carries the look. I love this top with a black, white, or light washed denim bottom. When it’s warm out I wear it with white loafers, but since it was still cold when I took this, I whipped out my purple suede booties. One of the cool details to the shirt is, in addition to the unique buttons, the longer length in back. I’m a huge fan of the intentionally messy half tuck, but the whole vibe of this top is crisp, sharp, and chic. Had to pop the collar though. The waxy effect of these jeans keep things slick and sleek. White shades to hint towards Spring.
Fun fact: when I was little my favorite color was lavender. My childhood bedroom, my monogrammed stationary, even my bat mitzvah invitations were lavender and purple. Only later did I learn it’s the color of royalty ;).

Not So Basic Blend

Ok, let’s see what we’ve got here; some basic pieces you all def have in your closet, blended together to make a not so basic look. Dark rinse bell bottoms, a neutral knit turtleneck of sorts (this DKNY one is sleeveless, a good transitional piece), and a patterned blazer. Oh, and sunglasses that lend a pop of color or whimsy. Each of these standard items came together to make a solid transitional look when it was freezing in April, though clearly time to mentally and stylistically move the F on from winter wear. Neutral Lanvin wedges are hiding underneath the jeans, adding that great booty lift that denim loves so much. I used these same jeans a few weeks back, with the retro sweater. Pairing it today with this Isabel Marant blazer that I’ve had forever makes for an entirely new vibe. A structured blazer is a great way to take denim to a date. Lastly, always capitalize on a good blowout.

Overall Mood

I’ve loved overalls since, well, probably the age of 2. I still think they’re adorable and fun, not to mention sexy when worn with a tank top, bralette, or crop top. I like my overalls baggy to highlight what’s underneath. This whole outfit is from Free People. I love the combo of army green and dusty rose. It’s a good mix of earthy and sweet. I also have a thing for long sleeves and Birkenstock’s, as well as for wind that gives me Beyoncé wind machine hair.

Def Leopard

We here in Jersey are wild for animal prints! Leopard print, big hair, leather, and hair band music; we wrote the book on that rad ass time in the 80’s. I seriously feel bad for anyone who didn’t grow up tasting all that the decade of 1980 had to offer. The vibes from back then cannot be replicated, but we can still rock some of those trends, yes? This jumpsuit is versatile. It’s an outfit that works day or night, as a comfy yet chic hostess look, or even as a cover up at the pool. It’s a great vacation piece since it serves many purposes. It’s Norma Kamali, and it does not wrinkle, which is a gift from the fabric gods. I love how the pop of red in the sunglasses add to the otherwise black and gray color palette. The shorter cut of the jacket works really well with the high waist on the jumpsuit, making for a flattering silhouette. The fit and scale of outerwear pieces can make or break the overall feel of a look. Wishing you all a totally radical, Jersey strong day!

Spring Skirting

So into this flirty skirt sweater combo as a transitional look. Shot mid April while it was crazy cold, this look was both cozy, practical, and seasonally appropriate. The chunky, cream colored knit sweater worked because it’s not a heavy wool. That would have felt out of place in April, even if it was 39 degrees that day. The length of the sweater is also what made it work with this sweet skirt. It hit right so it didn’t overwhelm the skirt, the key Spring piece. The flowy aspect of the skirt balanced the warmer sweater affect, as did the straw Spring boots that I’ve had forever. The floral skirt paired with this handmade ceramic heart shaped necklace, made for a real Spring vibe. Pretty, feminine details for the win. I was able to keep warm while mentally embracing the shift in seasons. It’s essential we stay internally cozy as we navigate change.

Retro Vibes

Wide bell bottoms? Always a classic; thank you, 70’s! Bright, zip up cardigan? A classic as well, a concept that goes way back but still holds up. I love how this vibrant Maje cardigan acts as a top. It’s bold, clean, and modern, which is a great compliment to the throwback style of each piece seen here. Even the shoes are silver oxfords with a woven platform, oxfords being another classic style. The faux specs, working off the cardigan, gave me Wonder Years vibes. Anyone my age loved that show. I’d breastfeed my oldest to it on mute 20 years ago (TMI for a fashion post?). Bell bottoms do wonders in elongating legs, and look amazing with almost any style of top. These are a new purchase from Free People. I bought them in a dark and light rinse. I think they’re an essential staple in any denim closet. Despite it being April, this was shot in WTF 35 degree weather. This is a solid transitional style that’s practical with personality. Sounds like #goals to me.

Off Duty J Lo

Feeling so much like the title of this post! I’ll take even the slightest Jenny From the Block vibe. The street style look of the cropped sweatshirt, oversized matching pants, large gold jewelry, top knot, and cute sneakers was the perfect pulled together yet comfy look for a recent Sunday hang. The sweatsuit is Joah Brown, a brand which has embarrassingly been my unconscious covid addiction (shopping while trapped at home brings its own brand of shame). I love the statement of the bold tomato red, mixed with the statement of the necklace. Adding a pop of polished glam can really elevate street wear. It’s proof that even relaxed and comfortable clothes, when well curated and accessorized, can leave you “Feelin’ So Good”.

In Between

Let’s see how many ways I can say “transition” when it comes to style...
I love those in between seasons, when I can pull from different genres to nail a look. That level of mixing things up is fun for me. I enjoy the challenge of working with temperatures that aren’t obvious, and I feel a sense of satisfaction when I get it right. All the pieces featured here work in the Fall, too. In a few weeks the shirt and felt wool hat will be stored away. The vintage Marc Jacobs denim blazer is a fabulous all year piece (I’d be least inclined to wear it during Winter), and the pants will look cute with a white t shirt until it’s too hot for leather. The white sneakers are a fresh nod to Spring (heading into Fall I’d choose a different shoe). During these in between times, it’s the little tweaks and details that usher in new vibes.

Warm Clothes To Warm Weather

Finally, right? Here on the East Coast we are losing our heavier coats and beginning to taste Spring. When I shot this look it was still cold, so I went for a transitional vibe that has the thick sweater instead of a coat. The sweater, a winter piece, mixed with the satin printed pants and white shoes (Isabel Marant and Madison Margiela, respectively) is the right blend of heavy and light, darker and bright. Transitional dressing is all about mixing textures, weights, and fabrics so that you don’t seem stuck in one particular season. The white shoes are prob my fav piece here; I love the fresh little nod to Spring despite the cold. A pop of white is a great way to begin to shift seasons, as well as the mental states and moods that come along with them. My cute little red earring was a nice coordinating detail. Silk pants have so many warm weather uses, like a white tank top, half tucked white button down, or a lighter slouchy cardigan with the sleeves bunched up (add bracelets!). I love this time, where it feels very exciting to start to venture out of hibernation and bask in the knowledge that things will always bloom again.

Army of 1

VERY into this new take on monochrome. As we begin to transition seasons, heavy parkas no longer make sense. However temperatures can still be cold, and they sure are in the New York area. The weather, in keeping with everything else about this past year, has been unpredictable and completely bonkers. I love the idea of a big, cozy sweater as outerwear. Still not going anywhere, but if I was, I’d just wear the sweater instead of a coat and remove it as needed, revealing a slip dress of the same army green underneath. This Dannijo slip dress is a favorite piece of mine. It pairs so well with this giant sweater I’ve had forever, as well as with these old Jimmy Choo shoes that didn’t fit me for about ten years (post pregnancy feet which shockingly shrunk back this year. Who knew?). I love how the sweater not only keeps me warm, but adds a touch of cool casual to an otherwise dressy, nighttime look. The low side part bun and one statement earring drove it home for me, evoking all the aforementioned vibes.

It’s a Family Thing

I feel lucky to have this vintage coat from my Bubbie, it’s the piece that inspired this look. Working off of a warm, rich color palette, I mixed my old burgundy pleated leather J Crew skirt, a staple, with this yummy sweater. The turtleneck, feminine sleeve detail, and warm striping added the right pop of pattern and color. Leather riding boots and tights, both in shades of brown, lent a consistency to the outfit. Neutral shades in a retro cat eye added to the vintage aspect, pairing well with the cost. My one piece of jewelry is a handmade ceramic leaf pendant, in a shade that works off of the blue in the sweater. I was heading to a religious event, so I needed to dress appropriately out of respect for that particular environment. Religion but make it cute right? I love all the textures and warmth in this look. Each piece stands on its own yet works together by being in the same family of vibes and hues.

Meet Me At Style Street

An easy and cozy look need not involve elastic waistbands and sweatpants. It’s fine if they do, but personally I needed to get out of the “daytime pajama” routine. The right pair of jeans and comfy sweater did the trick of keeping me comfortable while looking more polished than what I’ve become accustomed to. I know I write this a lot, in regards to switching it up from sweats to jeans etc, but isn’t that just life? We are always flip flopping between the same few concepts, and I don’t just mean about daytime style. We go left, we go right, we go left, we go right...

Nothing out of the box here, since who needs that on a Monday morning? Paige jeans, this yummy Madewell sweater, a nice blowout, and my fave mini boots. The Carven boyfriend coat has become a winter favorite. I love the relaxed fit and rich navy color. The coat was a great price at Century 21. What you can note here is fit. Each piece fits just right, which proves that fit can be the most important piece in achieving the overall smoothness of an outfit. An expensive piece will fall flat without fitting well, and the right bargain item will work if it does. I love sweaters and have really been enjoying the variety of styles, scales, colors, and textures this year. I did well at Nordstrom’s a couple months ago, and there will be good sales coming up soon as Spring approaches. Def wise to capitalize on that and stock up for next Fall/Winter. My old McQueen sunglasses elevate any outfit, showing that the right single accessory packs a subtle punch. Lastly? Find a graffiti wall as your snapshot background. Never fails, as it is truly street style.

Statement Puffer

Amidst all the black and one hue winter puffer coats, a pop of fun pattern is a welcome change. This coat was a great deal, I bought it on sale at Century, of blessed memory (come baaaaacccckkkkk!!). It’s Scotch and Soda, a brand I used to love to dress my kids in. When I learned a few years ago that they had an adult line, I was thrilled. They are known for their whimsy personality in their pieces, and I’ve always loved dressing that way. Some of my favorite items in my wardrobe come from Scotch and Soda. I happen to have a beanie in the same color family, and these non prescription, see through sunglasses gave me 90’s Lisa Loeb vibes. We tend to gravitate towards a darker wardrobe during colder months. So much black! I love how this coat plays off the stark sophistication of whatever black, dark gray, or denim we are wearing underneath. As I always say, most “successful” ensembles achieve some kind of balance in some way. Never too studied, rehearsed, or overthought. Just the right, effortless mix that clicks for you.

Fresh Greenery

Heyyyyyy. Been so into the long skirt and chunky sweater concept lately. It’s boho, pretty, and practical weather wise. These old DKNY boots worked very well in the snow, and the hat made sense from a fashion and climate perspective. I fully cop to the cropped sweater not being the most practical in the cold, but I was obv outside just for a bit to take pics. The cropped turtleneck top actually lightened up the head to toe effect of the other pieces. It’s easy to otherwise get lost in all that length and fabric. I was itching to wear this fresh looking, pleated green skirt. It’s such a pretty piece that is a jolt of visual joy. It’s light so it’s all year, and it didn’t overwhelm me indoors. This is a great dinner look for a special occasion (miss those!!). It’s nice to bring femininity to the dark and heavy colors and fabrics of winter.

Adopt a Native Elder

I promise to be back next week with your regular Lady Blaga style pics. Getting through having covid has been quite a to do, and this style post is way more important than my usual shtick:). I recently found this incredible organization on Instagram, Adopt a Native Elder. I wish I needed a rug right now! This site features a variety of beautifully handmade and handwoven items from Native American elders. Using their time honored weaving and jewelry making techniques, these elders create stunning, one of a kind creations. Rugs, dolls, baskets, and jewelry drip with tradition, history, and authenticity. The best part? No middle man. All profits and proceeds go directly to the elders. Any donations (I signed up for a monthly donation) go to feeding the elders and providing them with firewood. It breaks my heart and angers me that Native Americans, especially their precious elders, live in such poverty, but that’s for a different conversation. We can help serve this community by purchasing their gorgeous goods and/or donating to the organization. I’m definitely going to buy a piece of jewelry; I’m super feeling turquoise and hammered silver for the spring and summer. It’s pretty, earthy, sexy, and real; all qualities I love when creating any look.
True beauty includes honoring our ancestors. These elders deserve our respect, acknowledgment, and support. They were here first. When we expand our giving beyond our own circles, we embrace the natural ways of openness and connection. This, dear Friends, is a time for growth and reaching out to one another. May we appreciate what we all have to offer.

anelder.org/buy-a-navajo-rug

IG- @adoptanativeelderofficial

Throw Me a Bone

Having been cooped up the past couple weeks as a result of the Rona (thank god I’m ok), there were few things in my room that made me feel like an actual person. It’s amazing what we appreciate and notice when so much else is stripped away. One such item was this lovely Serena and Lily throw blanket that I’ve had for ten years. I have a couch in my room under a large window, and sitting there during the day helped me maintain some order and humanity during this crazy time of quarantine. I have always loved a good throw. Having moved many times, I can truly say that until the pictures are hung on the walls and the decorative blankets and pillows are properly in place, a space doesn’t feel like home to me. Sumptuous home decor details make me feel at one with a room, and it’s often the most practical ones that achieve this; the right picture frame, vase, magazine rack, or blanket. I get great finds at Target and Home Goods. We have stacks of throws in almost every room of our house, representing warmth, hospitality, and comfort. I want my space to feel equal parts cozy and beautiful, and I love selecting throws that compliment the vibe in a room. Color and texture matter, as does having a variety of weights to suit different seasons. Cozying up under a lovely blanket with some tea while watching the snow fall, truly brought me moments of contentment during lockdown.

https://www.potterybarn.com/products/colossal-handknit-throw/

https://www.potterybarn.com/products/shiloh-chunky-knit-throw/

https://www.etsy.com/listing/560673196/chunky-knit-blanket-cable-knit-blanket

https://www.wayfair.com/decor-pillows/pdp/the-twillery-co-oldham-cotton-throw-chmb2304.html?&experiencetype=2&selectedvertical=3

https://www.westelm.com/products/lcl-made-here-new-york-100-cotton-braided-cable-knit-throw-d5834/

Life’s a Beach

Oh, how if only this were true right now. Currently in New York we are expecting a couple days of snow, which I love. People are also beginning to dream about flying south to warmer weather. With Passover and school spring breaks on the horizon, and cabin fever reaching all time highs, many folks are keeping up the illusion of sanity by imagining being on a beach somewhere (anywhere!!).

I have always loved a white cover up to complete any vacation look. There’s something so fresh and classic about it. Plus, the right piece easily doubles as a dinner look. Usually just adding a belt and some statement jewelry does the trick, as well as the perfect strappy sandal. I love wearing more see through pieces on vacation. How transparent and revealing our clothing is, is often a result of cultural comfort levels and conditions. It was very freeing for me to learn a few years ago that many countries hold far less judgement about that stuff; if women around the world can embrace sheer clothing without fear of the judgement police, then it really is about state of mind. Bottom line, it’s YOUR well earned vacation, whenever you take it. Let’s be inspired by our sisters around the world who don’t think twice about a bra strap showing. I love when vacay clothes serve multiple uses, so if I can rock a sexy cover up into evening then that’s a big YES for me.

https://www.cabanalife.com/products/white-embroidered-cover-up

https://www.cupshe.com/products/white-crochet-cover-up-with-fringe-trim

https://www.victoriassecret.com/us/vs/apparel-catalog/victoria-s-secret-sheer-long-kaftan-cover-up-1117387400

https://www.garnethill.com/lace-front-crinkled-organic-cotton-gauze-swim-cover-up/559635?intlShippingCtx=US%7CUSD&locale=en-US&utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=PLA&SourceCode=K21W42B1&SourceCode=K21W52B1&utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=ACQ+PLA+Apparel&utm_content=ACQ+PLA+Apparel+Swimwear&gclid=EAIaIQobChMIt670__HG7gIVCuOzCh3tvAf1EAQYByABEgLaq_D_BwE

Embracing the Elements

Loving this combo of essential pieces: a denim shirt, black skinny jeans, booties, a neutral color sweater, and a good black scarf. This look is effortlessly pulled together yet fully wearable on any given day. The long sweater was a welcome change from a coat, and didn’t need to be removed and shlepped around once I reached my destination. The most expensive item here was this Louis Vuitton scarf. I wouldn’t spend that much on a scarf today, but it’s indeed a great piece I’m glad I bought, since it always drapes beautifully and goes with everything. My J Crew denim shirt I’ve had for years. It has a million uses and never lets me down. I have always loved a long sweater. This neutral color softens up the black element and looks great with the denim cuffs folded over it. Complimentary accessories add subtle detail, finishing the look.

re boot

How gratifying is it to walk through fresh snow in a pair of warm, comfortable boots that happen to be attractive? I love the snow, and truly take pleasure in the simple enjoyment of breaking out my winter boots and seeing my footprints. Here are some styles and brands that I’ve been digging this season.

https://www.sorel.com/p/womens-sorel-explorer-joan-boot-1808061.html

https://www.sorel.com/p/womens-joan-of-arctic-next-boot-1877351.html

https://www.toms.com/us/women/shoes/boots-and-booties/black-leather-and-suede-womens-makenna-boots/10014172.html

https://www.minnetonkamoccasin.com/limited-edition-everett-women

https://www.target.com/p/timberland-women-s-mt-hayes-tall-waterproof-boots-medium-brown-full-grain-8/-/A-81959924

Warm n’ Fuzzy

It’s the rare day during these times, where I’m actually dressed inside my house. Admittedly it does feel good to (occasionally) wear clothing that can’t double as sleepwear. On this particular day, the light was warm and soft, despite the cold, snowy scene outdoors. The high waisted gray jeans paired with the slouchy, soft top (Joah Brown) was the right look to stay put together at home, while remaining comfy and chill. A long necklace added a nice dose of understated accessorizing. For those days where you still goin’ nowhere but are craving a slight increase in style and dignity, this is an easily accessible look. You already have some version of all these essential pieces, may as well dust them off. It does feel nice to remember what getting ourselves together feels like.