Best Laid Simple Statement

While I was on the train, Thursday morning, on the way to work I started putting together this post. I was super excited to be keeping up with my new personal schedule and doing the things that I enjoy doing like blogging and thinking about clothes. Unfortunately, thanks to Verizon's crappy service while traveling, I was unable to publish my post in a timely manner. In fact, I was unable to even save all the fun interesting things that I had previously written so, I had to start all over again. Sufficed to say that was less than motivating...

But, just because things get a little annoying doesn't mean it's time to give up all together so, here's that one missing outfit from last week. I was really feeling dresses, if you couldn't tell. Maybe because they are cute, or maybe it's because they are easy, or perhaps a little bit of both. Either way that's really the extent of loquaciousness that this ensemble inspired. Sometimes it is just as easy as I like this outfit and I need to wear something so, I will wear the outfit I liked!

• Top: purple and orange floral patterned jersey knit dress, New York & Company
• Shoes & Accessories: black t-strap sandals, LOFT; amelia drop earrings, Stella & Dot

Bright Eyes

This morning was (relatively) smooth sailing despite last night's debauchery. In the earlier part of the evening it was (mostly) professional; discussing the incumbents' next steps, extending well wishes, and getting excited for them to take said steps. By the end of the night it had definitely gotten less professionally focused and became just a bunch of co-workers having a good time which was fine by me. I try to limit my discussions about work when I am outside of work to few and far between, I'm there a good portion of my time anyway, why do I want to talk about it (or things related to it) when I'm not?

Speaking of work... Today is definitely jam packed with meetings, endless emails, and all around non-stop craziness. While I think I am getting things done and keeping afloat I am definitely feeling the effects of this level of intense work under such high level of scrutiny. What does that mean? Bottom line, I'm tired. Thankfully, I see a light at the end of the tunnel! Unfortunately, it's just a tiny pinpoint a long ways away at this juncture. Time to grind.

• Top: yellow t-shirt, Lilly Pulitzer via Clementine
• Bottom: black pencil skirt, Old Navy
• Shoes & Accessories: black t-strap sandals, LOFT; black pearl earrings, International Gem and Jewelry Show 

I most recently wore this skirt here.

I'm linking up with Spotlight Style and Fashion Files

October 1, 2011: Black, White, and Light Layers

Yeah, I've been having some issues keeping up with blogging. October is a new month and I am ready to get back on track without getting ahead of myself (I hope.) One of the biggest challenges I am facing in regards to getting dress is the weather. I wake up in the morning and it's cold but, by the end of the day it is extremely warm. Also, I was pretty darn sick and am still getting over the remnants of my illness so, these seemingly subtle changes in temperature are very noticeable to me. 

My solution for now is light tops and a jackets/cardi with a pashmina in my purse in case I need additional warmth. Have you come down with the rando cold/flu that is plaguing the general population right now? How are you handling the change in the weather?

• Top: black and white polka dot dress, Forever 21 via The Big Fat Flea; black and white pinstripe blazer, Calvin Klein (part of this suit)
• Shoes & Accessories: red patent leather flats, Payless; pearl earrings, gift from Mom/Macys; silver watch, Fossil; Neverfull GM, Louis Vuitton/gift from BF

Items from this outfit are previously seen and remixed here, here, here, here, here, and here.

Don't forget to enter the giveaway for a New York Fashion Week Swag Bundle!

April 27, 2012: Professional Casual Friday

Even though I have made a pledge to focus more moving forward on upping my professionalism regarding my work wardrobe that doesn't mean that I am going to miss out on a chance to wear jeans to the office! Since the once a month casual Friday is linked to supporting a worthy charity I feel like it is win win for everyone! With all that being said I still made a concerted effort to keep the pointers that had been made in mind when putting together my outfit. How do you think I did? 

• Top: black and white zig zag blouse, Missoni for Target; black short sleeved sweater, LOFT 
• Bottom: double waistband denim trouser tailored by me, LOFT
• Shoes & Accessories: red patent leather flats, Payless; silver and pearl earrings, Elizabeth Showers Vintage; Neverfull GM, Louis Vuitton/gift from BF

 

Items from this outfit are previously seen and remixed here, here, here, here, here, here, here, here, here, and here

April 25, 2012: My Big Day

Awkward conversation number seventy two three had no bearing on how I chose my outfit this day. April 25th was my big spring recruiting event and I was definitely planning on dressing to impress from the get go. I even went another step further and wore my contacts and did my makeup (crazy, I know)! How do you dress at work when you need to set a good example?

• Top: ivory sheath dress, Adrianne Vittadini via Loehmanns; black safari jacket, LOFT (same jacket different color here, here, here, here, here, here, here, here, here, here and here)
• Shoes & Accessories: black patent leather t-strap pumps, LOFT; silver bead earrings, Tiffany & Co.; silver watch, Fossil; Neverfull GM, Louis Vuitton/gift from BF

Items from this outfit are previously seen and remixed here, here, here, here, here, here, here, here, and here

April 17, 2012: I've Got (Pastel) Yellow

As I have said before pastels are something that always make me thing of spring, warmer weather, easter, etc. While I would still wear pastels even if they weren't trendy it's nice that they are. What I found the most difficult about this pairing was the fact that a pastel yellow eyelet lace skirt might not be the most office appropriate thing but, paired with a blazer I think it's passable... what do you think? 

• Top: white short sleeved sweater, LOFT (same shirt different color here, here, and here); khaki safari blazer, LOFT  (same jacket different color here, here, here, here, here, and here)   
• Bottom: yellow eyelet lace skirt, GAP
• Shoes & Accessories: nude patent leather pumps, Apt. 9 via Kohl's; shell hoop earrings, Charming Charlie/gift from Cousin V; silver watch, Fossil; Neverfull GM, Louis Vuitton/gift from BF   

Items from this outfit are previously seen and remixed here, here, here, here, here, here, here, here, here, here and here 

Happy Easter

There is no reason to break tradition now, time to share my Easter outfit. Last weekend, in all the hubbub of my normal life I got a text message from my mother informing me that the Easter color was lilac… Can you see my unamused face? I’m sorry, I’m a little scarred from all the years of posing for portraits with my brother in matching ensembles or going to crowded public places wearing identical outfits. Perhaps, we were easier to find that way (I think) but, I digress…

When I received the message I had no idea what I was going to wear and just hoping I could find something in my closet and I did! Unfortunately for my mother and her matchy matchy schemes it’s not lilac. I was hoping to be able to squeeze into this last minute wedding guest dress but, have gained enough weight that’s it’s not the most flattering ensemble. It wasn’t hopeless AKA I could still zip it up but, I wasn’t comfortable with the idea of wearing it to church or to brunch/dinner afterwards. Maybe next year. What are your plans for this holiday weekend?

This dress, on the other hand, has been sitting in my closet forever! I got it on super sale clearance (read: $9.00) when Target was phasing out the last of the Isaac Mizrahi line. I haven't had a good occasion to wear it but, could not bring myself to get rid of it. I'm glad I held on to it because it works for this occasion. Do you have pieces like that in your closet? 

• Top: ivory lace dress, Isaac Mizrahi for Target with a tank top underneath for the modesty; black cropped jacket, Express
• Shoes & Accessories: black patent leather t-strap pumps, LOFT; rhinestone earrings, New York and Company/gift from BF's parent's; black plume brooch, Stella & Dot; black cat eye sunglasses, Enzo Angiolini; purple patent leather tote, Coach

To: You
From: Iris

April 4, 2012: Positive Role Model

First of all I just have to tell you that my outfit last night was totally acceptable. I was definitely the only one who was over thinking it since it looked like most people just showed up in what they wore to work that day. What was even more amusing to me was that the woman giving the lecture, and a few people in the audience, were dressed in black from head to toe. Wait! Hold on. Just kidding, there was some gray in there as well… We could have matched if I had gone the cliché artist route but, I’m glad I strayed away.

In other news, I have taken on a new responsibility in my personal life. In addition to everything else I have going on I have decided to be a mentor with an excellent charity organization the helps people with their job search. I thought that a few hours a week of my time to answer some questions/give guidance is nothing if it makes a positive change in someone’s life. Hopefully it does! Bonus: tonight I think there will be pizza (provided by them) and cookies (provided by me)!

One of the things that the facilitators of this program stressed was the importance of wearing professional attire to set a positive example for the mentees. I'm sensing a trend and I could not agree more. This dress came to my rescue this morning last night while I struggled with finding a comfortable/professional outfit to wear. Dresses = The Best!

•  Top: ruffle front cotton dress with pockets, eshakti.com with a tank top underneath for the modesty; black blazer, Ann Taylor via Melissa
• Shoes & Accessories: black patent leather t-strap pumps, LOFT; Amelia Earrings, Stella & Dot; silver watch, Fossil; Neverfull GM, Louis Vuitton/gift from BF

November 8, 2011: Everybody, Everywhere Has Colored Tights

When colored tights came up at the theme for this month over at Everybody, Everywear I knew that I had this in the bag. Remember rainbow tights week? Yeah... I'm excited to break the stretchy goodness out of hibernation! Unfortunately, it is uncommonly warm today. Why not have a snow storm then an almost 70° day within a few weeks of each other? It makes total sense to me but, I might need to hold off on breaking out the rest for a little while longer...

• Top:  gray camo/animal print ruffle button down shirt, LOFT; black pinstripe blazer, Calvin Klein via SYMS (part of this suit)
• Bottom: black pencil skirt (with pockets), Old Navy
• Shoes & Accessories: black patent leather t-strap pumps, LOFT; teal tights, Merona for Target; silver and gold teardrop earrings, V'ta Jewelry; gray and black purse, Pietro Alessandro

Items from this outfit are previously seen and remixed here, here, here, here, here, here, here, here, here, here, and here.

September 27, 2011: Running The Show

Today I have work but, tonight I have the first meeting of the year for a young professional non-profit committee that I sit on. I am special, I am a co-chair (whatever that means) so I want to keep it professional even after hours. Although, I might bring some commuter shoes... What?! I know it's because I have to trudge across town for the meeting and then back to catch my train after. Yeah, I knew you'd understand.

• Top: gray lace embellished top, LOFT via Mom; black blazer, Ann Taylor via Melissa
• Bottom: black and white tweed skirt, Unique Thrift Store (vintage/no tag)
• Shoes & Accessories: black patent leather t-strap pumps, LOFT; black belt, came with this dress; estate chandelier earrings, Stella & Dot; gray and black Ashley shoulder bag, Pietro Alessandro

Items from this outfit are previously seen and remixed here, here, and here: 

August 25, 2011: Sexy Librarian

Sorry for the delay Blogger was giving me some serious problems this morning that I did not have time to deal with in the morning rush. Normally I will run a search when updating on items that I have previously worn and it told me that I have never written anything about "tweed"... seriously!? So since I couldn't get the whole post together and still make my bus I decided to put it off until I got home. This allowed me to get a few compliments at work that I could tell you about. Apparently, my professional pattern mixing is appreciated!

This title is what BF described my look as when I put on this outfit to take the pictures. That wasn't really the look I was going for but, I'll take what I can get... Isn't is funny how when you put on something that is very covered up but, form hugging it instantly becomes "sexy." To combat the pulling/inappropriateness of the third button (the one that sits over my bosom, that jerk) I put on a cardigan. I figured worse comes to worse I could always pull that closed if things for out of control which they (thankfully) didn't. Do you have a "sexy" but, covered up look? What does it consist of?

It took alot of self control to not have a title that was earthquake related but, obviously I don't have a ton since I still mentioned it. I'll be honest I didn't feel a thing because I was "hoofing it" from one end of the office to another but, then all of a sudden people talking about it, running downstairs, our phones weren't working, etc. and it was confirmed by CNN.com moments later. All this experience did (for me) was allow me to say that I survived it, get a few swarm badges on foursquare, and reaffirm that NYC is not the place to be when buildings shake or anything else happens, everyone jumps to "terrorism" and panics. How was it for you guys? Did anyone else feel the Earth shake?

• Top: pink striped button down shirt, GAP; black cardigan, Merona via Target/gift from BF
• Bottom: black and white tweed pencil skirt, Isaac Mizrahi for Target via The Unique Thrift Store
• Shoes & Accessories: black patent leather t-strap pumps, LOFT; chalcedony and mother of pearl earrings, Gem Cove/birthday gift from Mom; black belt, came with this dress; gray and black purse, Pietro Alessandro

My Stella & Dot Pick:

After the Rain Bracelet

Items from this outfit are previously seen and remixed here, here, and here:

August 9, 2011: Channeling Drowned Rat

Yesterday was pretty rough... hence no post. My boss was out sick which was kind of a blessing and a curse. You face the temptation to slack off because there is no one there to check in on you but, you know you have to get everything done anyway. Don't worry, I took care of business. 

The only liberty I took yesterday was leaving 10 minutes early so that I could make my train. Good thing I did because it was pouring outside when I left; open toe shoes + torrential downpour = serious challenge. I honestly almost missed my train and got drenched in the process! I swear my hair was straight in the morning and there was a jacket in my ensemble but, I used it as an umbrella to keep myself dry. Not, the most effective thing as you can see. 

• Top: yellow ruffle collar shirt, LOFT; black blazer, Ann Taylor (not pictured)
• Bottom: black, gray, and white skirt (with pockets), Target
• Shoes & Accessories: black patent leather t-strap pumps, LOFT; silver and pearl earrings, Elizabeth Showers Vintage; purple tote bag, Coach

Items from this outfit are previously seen and remixed here, here, here, here, here, here, here, here, here, here, and here:

August 1, 2011: A Whole New World

So, we all know that I've been a little MIA (sorry) and it hasn't been just about life (work, personal obligations, health, etc.)  The obligation that I felt to keep up with the days I had missed was very daunting. Because I have pledged not to wear a repeated outfit to work for another year I  was stuck on the idea of documenting every single one even when I wasn't at a point where I was realistically able to due to other more pressing obligations.

I have finally gotten a good handle on my schedule, commuting, the job expectations, etc. and am more comfortable in general. These past six months have honestly been a huge challenge. So, I sat down with myself and had a conversation where we unanimously decided that it would be best if I just left all the old unfinished posts behind and kept moving forward. Not to say that I won't try to revisit the missing outfits but, I just can't keep scrambling to catch up to the point of burning myself out which is exactly what has been happening.

On to more fun things; It's my birthday this week and I am making even less of a big deal about it than last year. I planned a few small get togethers but, haven't really thought of anything I want. What I could probably use most would be a vacation but, that isn't happening for quite a while and now that I've figured my schedule out that isn't such a big deal but, when the time comes it will be glorious! What would you ask for if it was your birthday?

And now on to the clothes... keeping it professional while staying cool has been a challenge. The proverbial "they" says "Dress for the job you want" but, I would melt in a suit! So, a sweater vest seemed like a good compromise to me. What are some of your summer work staples?

• Top: white polka dot button down, Merona for Target; purple, gray, white, and black argyle vest, New York & Company (same vest different color here and here)
• Bottom: gray pencil skirt, New York & Company
• Shoes & Accessories: black patent leather t-strap pumps, Ann Taylor Loft; silver bead earrings, Tiffany & Co.; black and gray purse, Pietro Alessandro

Items from this outfit have been previously seen and remixed here,  here, here, here, here, here, here, here, here, here, here, here, here, and here:

April 4, 2011: Let's Get It Started

As you might have already surmised we are going into year two here at 260 Days, No Repeats. I'll talk about the specific rules as I wrap up Year 1 but, I'll let you in one of my main motivators: I still have things in my closet that I have not worn on the blog or on the weekends! It's crazy I know but, this shirt is the perfect example; I got it in August for my birthday and have been saving it for cooler weather. Well, Fall and Winter have passed and it was still hanging out in my closet (pun intended) passed over for other shirts of a gray persuasion. Well, that ended today! I am making an effort this week to focus on things that you have never seen here before. I warn you though, things could get a little crazy... Case and point this out of the box for me crazy wearing my necklace around my collar like some sort of sparkly tie thing but, what can I say? I was inspired by some of my fav other bloggers! What or Who inspires your out of the box wardrobe choices?

• Top: gray pinstripe button down shirt, The Limited via The Unique Thrift Store
• Bottom: black pencil skirt, Old Navy
• Shoes & Accessories: black vintage patent leather pumps, Evan Picone via Unique Thrift Store; black and silver statement necklace, Etsy; onyx earrings, V'ta Jewelry; purple tote bag, Coach (not pictured)

Items from this outfit are previously seen and remixed in Year 1 here, here, here, here, here, and here.

February 4, 2011: Support The Cause

As I mentioned in my FBFF post I will be taking part in raising awareness about heart disease this month by joining these lovely ladies in wearing red on Fridays in February. Heart disease is the number one killer of women in the United States. It is also a leading cause of disability among women so we need to be aware of it and stay healthy! I'm talking to you hips... 

I have a confession to make. I didn't get to my reservation on Wednesday... BF is having some dental stuff done that is interfering with eating but, we are going tonight! I got Restaurant Week reservations at a nice steakhouse in midtown (hence no jeans) and I would like to take the opportunity to celebrate some of the good things that have been happening. 

• Top: gray turtleneck sweater, GAP
• Bottom: black really skinny pants, GAP
• Shoes & Acessories: red patent flat American Eagle, Payless;  silver bead earrings, Tiffany & Co.; black Spy Bag, Fendi

Items from this outfit are previously seen and remixed here, here, here, here, and here:

Don't forget to enter the giveaway! 

Night Out: Charity Auction - Mad Men Style

Two of my nearest and dearest friends invited me to an auction at their church. I have heard alot about the fun times that occur and could not wait to be a part of it! The theme of the auction was Mad Men so I needed to come up with an outfit that was representative of that era/show but, wouldn't cost me anything... The biggest challenge was the fact that I have never seen the show (for shame, I know) so I was working with a copious number of images from Google. While I went with a classic clothing pieces I really spiced everything up with the shoes. They style is vintage but, the leopard is so now! You'll have to forgive the state of my hair and makeup, these photos were taken at the end of the evening. I promise, everything was much more sleek at the beginning of the night. How do you think the look came out?

• Top: aqua cowl neck sweater, Mossimo for Target
• Bottom: black pencil skirt, Old Navy
• Shoes & Accessories: patent leather leopard print mary janes, Le Due; nude tights, Assets by Sarah Blakely; pearl earrings, gift from Mom; pearl and rhinestone brooch, borrowed from Mom; black satin clutch, Old Navy (not pictured)

October 27, 2010: What's Black and White and Red All Over?

That would be me. This is one of my favorite color combinations, a total classic! Sometimes I feel like I'm not being as creative when I rely on something so tried and true but, just can't help it... it totally works. What are you favorite color combinations?

• Top: white crochet neck top, LOFT (same shirt different color here, here, and here)
• Bottom: black knit pants, New York and Company
• Shoes & Accessories: faux patent leather red flats, American Eagle for Payless (same shoe different color here); silver bead earrings, Tiffany & Co.; yellow alley bag

Items from this outfit are previously seen and remixed here and here:

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September 30, 2010: I've Got Camel Print

 

Camel and animal print... yeah I know, I'm so witty! Anyway, I have a job fair to go to today so, I am dressing the part of a young Human Resources professional... like every other day. Why am I trying to escape, you ask? I don't know what you are talking about! Ok fine, job fairs are mixed bag, sometimes they can be really fun but, I have a feeling that today is not going to be one of those occasions. Hopefully it will go quickly so I can get back to the office. You didn't see anything... Except for my awesome outfit, that is!

• Top: camel v-neck sweater, GAP; gray leopard tank top (for the modesty), Express/gift from BF's mom
• Bottom: ivory and black animal print pencil skirt, LOFT/birthday gift from BF's mom  
• Shoes & Accessories: black patent leather t-strap pumps, LOFT; silver bead earrings, Tiffany & Co.; black spy bag, Fendi

 

 

Items from this outfit are previously seen here:

 

September 27. 2010: I've Got Lace

 

First of all I just wanted to say a special thanks to these ladies who indicated that they would be joining me (in one way or another) and shopping their closet for fall trends, don't forget to check out the looks that they come up with!

• Melanie - Unravelled Threads
• Frances Joy - Mad Dress Game
• Marilou - 20 York Street

One of the things that I really wanted this fall was a lace top but, as stated before, I am really trying not to spend money on anything unnecessary which that shirt became when I remembered that I have this awesome lace skirt. It's been a while since I wore it (it's a little big) but, that's what the whole idea behing this challenege (and this blog) is! Is lace one of the fall trends that you are excited to style?

• Top: blue short sleeved sweater, Ann Taylor Loft (same shirt different color here and here)
• Bottom: gray lace skirt, Tara Jarmon for Target
• Shoes & Accessories: black patent leather t-strap pumps, Ann Taylor Loft; black beaded necklace from a craft space in Laguna Beach; black onyx earrings, V'ta; yellow alley bag

 

Items from this out are previously seen here: