{Nine West Jacket, Rugby Sweater (similar), Zara Skirt, Trina Turk for Hue Tights (similar), Elliott Lucca Handbag (similar), Fendi Boots, Marc Jacobs Sunglasses, Henri Bendel Bracelets, Michael Kors Watch, YSL Ring}
As usual, I’ve waited until the last minute to do my Christmas shopping… and you may have noticed that I slipped in a couple of new luxuries for myself. I just couldn’t help it. A girl’s gotta treat herself sometimes!
{H&M Dress, Hue Tights, Michael Kors Shoes via eBay ($20 brand new!)}
I recognize that I look kind of ridiculous in these photos, but truth be told, it was ABSOLUTELY FREEZING when we snapped these pics. Dancing around was all I could do to keep my teeth from chattering the entire time. My schedule this week has been packed with holiday gatherings, and I thought this cute little trapeze dress was the perfect festive getup. I wasn’t sure what shoes/tights combo to pair it with, but then I searched through my archives for some inspiration (one of the benefits of running a personal style blog!), and I ran across this number that I wore back in March. BOOM – instant outfit!
For my 2nd assignment of the Jane By Design Style Challenge, I was given a plain white t-shirt and told to use household items to create a design that embodied the spirit of one of my style icons. Since my style is all about incorporating classic, feminine pieces, I’ve always been drawn to the fashions of the 1950s. With her penchant for pink and distinct feminine flair, Dorothy Dandridge’s style perfectly embodies everything I love about that era.
For my t-shirt design, I began by opening up the neckline on my crewneck tee using a pair of scissors. I then cut up an old bright pink t-shirt into 10 3-inch wide strips and broke out my sewing machine (it was getting a little dusty!) to create little ruffles to adorn my top*. And since Ms. Dandridge often wore a flower in her hair, I added in an oversized flower pin that I picked up from H&M a couple years back. For additional 50s flair, I paired the top with a swingy knee-length skirt to complete the look.
Et Voilà!
And now that I’ve shared one of my style icons, I’d love to hear about who you ladies look to for inspiration. And while you’re at it, don’t forget to drop by the Jane By Design Facebook Page (and tell them I sent you). A big part of this challenge is not only about me completing all of the assignments, but also showing how awesome and supportive you guys are. And don’t forget, if I’m chosen as a winner, I also get to pick one lucky reader to be featured on the ABC.com website as the Trendsetter of the Week.
*For more detailed instructions on how to create a similar shirt of your own, check out this post from last year.