Getting the Groove Back

Lately, I feel like I’ve been in a rut.  Maybe because it’s so cold and rainy/snowy/icy/miserable, but every day I find myself reaching for the same old black tights/black dress/black flats.  It’s just so blah.

It’s even carried over into blogging–I’ve started like six posts, and then get bored and close them before I’m done typing.

I’ve been clicking through style photos on Pinterest trying to spark some kind of creativity.  The only thing I really use Pinterest for are recipes, home decor ideas, and Blair Waldorf, and I don’t spend a lot of time just looking at outfit ideas.

Here’s some outfits that hopefully will help put that pep back in my step:

Disclaimer – Most of these pictures I found off random preppy tumblrs.  If any of them belong to you, or you know the original source, let me know!

Three Layered Preppy Outfit Ideas

 

Sweater Dress
Polka Dot Oxford
Black Revas
Leopard Belt

Chunky Turtleneck Sweater or Cotton Turtleneck
Puffer Vest – Red.  Navy.
Pants – Red
Boots – Black

Denim Shirt
Plaid Miniskirt  (as seen on Classy Girls Wear Pearls)
Tan Brogues
Pearl Necklace 
Leopard Belt

*Note:   All the outfit pictures are from Gap.  But this post wasn’t sponsored by Gap or anything.  I just noticed they had some really cute outfits recently.

How to Wear: Fair Isle Sweater Dress

I love a classic Fair Isle sweater, and it can only get better in dress-form.  Despite the classic appeal, I think sometimes it’s hard to rock a Fair Isle without feeling like you’re starring in a LL Bean Christmas catalog.

This Fair Isle sweater dress is from Target and is only $25.  (It also comes in a lovely navy and a nice gray.)

The first thing I did was look for an interesting flannel to layer underneath the dress.  I know what you’re thinking–those prints do not go together.  Traditionally, you’re right.  But, the print mixing works in this case because we have a similar color story.  (That’s one of my best tips for successful print mixing–stick to similar colors!)   I would push up the sweater dress sleeves and let a little bit of the flannel cuff be exposed.  (This flannel is from Woolrich, a company that is known for their quality outerwear.)

Next, add a belt.  I belt everything in my entire life.  Because layering flannel underneath a wool dress can result in unwanted bulk, adding a belt will keep a nice shape.

I love the J.Crew field jackets, and while navy is a departure from our original color story, it’s a nice neutral that can tie everything together.   If you can, I would roll the jacket sleeves a little to add the final cuff detail.  (So, you should be able to see the flannel, the sweater, and then the jacket.)

Add a pair of classic cognac riding boots (layer over some epic knee socks for extra warmth!) and an unexpected bag.  I never can get enough leopard, and I think the pop gives this outfit a little edge.  Finally, some funky sunglasses.

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I really love this dress, and I might snag it in both red and navy.  It’s just such a classic cut and style, and it will last you through fall and until the end of winter.

Also, thanks to the lovely Fran for featuring me on her blog today!  She is one of my favorite budgeting bloggers, and I appreciate all her money saving tips!  Stop over and say hi!

40% Tommy Hilfiger!

Back in college, I used to work for H Hilfiger, which is no longer in business but was a more luxe version of Tommy’s normal stores.  (Also, let me say, working for that man was a true pleasure.  He would let us pick out complete outfits (including shoes and belts) for free.)

Since that store closed down, I’ve always had a soft spot for anything Hilfiger related.  And lately, TH has been hitting it out of the metaphorical preppy ball park.

And ending tomorrow, you can take 40% off your purchase by using code:  THFAMILY40.

I had saved up some $$ to spend on vacation, but I still have a bunch left over, so maybe I will pick up some of these gorgeous pieces!

Short Sleeve Striped Dress – on sale for $46

I bought this shirt at the outlets!  It’s super cute on, and it great for layering.

Fleur de Lis print button down – on sale for $36

Bold Stripe Shell – on sale for $32

This black dress is so great for the upcoming winter months with some bright tights and a contrasting belt.

Lace Detail party dress – on sale for $78

Sequin Stripe Sweater – $90

(This has Grace all over it!)

Anchor Intarsia Turtleneck – on sale for $108

Can’t forget a killer leopard print bag!

Pebble Leather and Leopard Bowler – on sale for $120

New Brand Love: Jack Wills

I’m always on the lookout for brands that have classic pieces for great prices, and I stumbled across Jack Wills the other day and was so excited!

Founded in Great Britain and rapidly expanding in the United States, Jack Wills’ preppy aesthetic is marketed mostly towards college students, but I think they have a lot of transitional appeal.

Also, I always judge a new store by its sale section, and this one did not disappoint. (Also, it’s really indicative of a thoughtful brand when the sale section can all be worn in the current season.  I once saw a quote–forgive me if I butcher it–that was along the lines of “Preppy style just means you can get away with wearing the same clothes every season and still look stylish.”  Yeah.  Totally butchered it.  But you get the idea.)

Here’s some of the pieces I really loved..and this is all on sale!

1. Henshaw Dress – $54 / 2. Colebridge Dress – $44

3.  Landsall Cardigan – $39 / 4.  Herrington Crew – $39

5.  Hannington Jumper – $69 (I love this!)

6.  Farleton Dress – $99 (yes, that is nautical!)

And how epic is this rug?!  I wish my name was William (although, that would probably be weird.  Tierney is weird enough.)

Also, no, this is not a sponsored post.  I just genuinely thought this was a great brand to share with you guys!