Winter White
There's just that "je ne sais quoi" about a full winter white outfit. The crisp lines, fresh glow and stand out appearance has always been a favorite in my book. When other parts of the globe may be in full spring mode, London still has that winter chill. So I decided to bring out my sample sale steal that I purchased last year and retire my trusty Burberry black coat for awhile.
Before I moved to London, I owned one coat - a black Zara parka that I only bought before I went traveling through Patagonia's glaciers. It's safe to say I went coat crazy at sample sales last March and found this Reiss Archive beaut. I fell in love with this coat not just because of the exceptional quality, but the divine colour truly caught my eye. Darker than a fresh snow white, lighter than a camel - this colour was one of kind and I knew it would be the perfect addition to brighten up my winter wardrobe. It's hard to imagine yourself wearing a coat this bright when the masses on the morning rush hour tube are in their standard head-to-toe black attires. But who cares, right? I never wear all black and know myself enough that even a big city like London certainly won't change that. I always say if I like what I'm wearing, I feel good and that's the most important part of styling yourself. Confidence is key and you'll never know who you'll meet on that morning tube ride..
Coat | Reiss (Similar)
Sweater | Forever 21 (Similar)
Jeans | Zara
Bag | Gucci
Shoes | Steve Madden
Thanks for stopping by!
Christie xx
Furs & Flares
The two most important F's in every fashionista's closet: Furs & Flares.
Everybody loves a causal Friday at the office, but why wear the same pair of jeans and boots every week? For me, fashion should always be fun and that includes at the work place. A dark pair of flares are a retro chic way to recreate any denim look. I recently found these 7 For All Mankind flares and they have quickly moved to the top of my denim drawer. The slimming cut hugs my body at just the right spots and the visible buttons dazzle for a 70's-inspired flare. The darker hue could not be more ideal for transitioning from day to night for some after work drinks or meeting up with a special someone.
Season after season, the statement fur shows no sign of slowing down. As much as I'd love a "Look at me!" colorful Shrimps coat, my style is much more classic and this H&M faux fur vest ticks every box. Ideal for layering over a turtleneck like I did here or a long dress with an OTKB, my fall staple is a must-have for those cozy fall days. Comfortable and versatile, the combinations are endless.
As a true Florida girl at heart, I'm trying to wait as long as possible before throwing on my heavy parka every morning. (ugh) The cold weather may not be my best friend, but the fall and winter fashion styles most definitely are.
Turtleneck | Miss Selfridges (similar here)
Fur Vest | H&M
Jeans | 7 For All Mankind (similar here, here, here)
Clutch | Tory Burch
Heels | Kurt Geiger
Nail | Essie "Miss Fancy Pants"
Lipstick | Maybelline "Blissful Berry"
Lipgloss | Kiko 3D Instant Volume "Fuchsia"
xx Christie
Art of the Trench
There really is one item that holds a timeless piece in every working girl's wardrobe - the Trenchcoat. It's no secret that Burberry has perfected the art of the trench with a rainbow of colors, textured fabrics, and even the most eccentric shapes. As a classic, a Burberry trench can stand alone in its own glory no matter the time of day or the unpredictable London weather. I chose this black, wool and cashmere blend in the classic 'Kensington' style as my ideal everyday coat for the colder months. I couldn't be happier with the tailored cut and rich embellishments that add a sense of chic to any ordinary day. This is a true investment piece for the colder season, but I promise it's worth every penny.
Burberry has been a favorite of mine for years for its high standards in quality and fashionable style. This quintessential British brand has been making raincoats since 1850, but it wasn't until the 40's that they started becoming fashion statements. The quirky nickname, the Trench, actually began as the name of the men's version of this stylish coat, while the women's model was still called the Glenco. The 1950's continued the glory days for Burberry with Hollywood's elite wearing its trademark designs. Since 2001, Christopher Bailey has transformed the Burberry brand into the modern era with fresh faces and cutting edge designs that have enhanced its status as a global icon. And of course, social media has helped too...
Other Burberry Options: (Click through to open)
Other brand options:
I'm wearing..
Coat | Burberry
Blouse | 1 State
Skirt | ZARA
Boots | Tory Burch
Beanie | Target
xx Christie
A Tea to Go
The question of the hour - Tea or Coffee?
Almost every weekend, one of my favorite things to do is walk around Kensington running errands, admiring all the beautiful coloured houses, and of course, finding the cutest breakfast spots for the best scones. I'm a huge explorer, so no alley is small enough for me to find the quaintest British tearoom. For those lazy Sundays, you can leave the heels at home and throw on a casual outfit to get a tea to go.
Here's my top 3 style tips for casual weekends:
1. Hat - A hat is an easy way to cover that messy Sunday bed head, but an instant option to looking chic. The one I'm wearing is actually from my YiaYia's (grandmother's) 1950's wardrobe, which she kindly gave to me the last time I was home. Almost 60 years old and this felt-lined hat from Chicago has made its way to London in mint condition. When you find a good hat, it's ok to invest a little more for quality wool because like this one, it'll last you a half a century.
Other options- here, here, and here.
2. Scarf - As much as I love chunky jewelry, my best accessory lies within my scarf collection. My secret is finding them on a steal because all that truly matters is a great hue/pattern and a quality material. Forever 21 actually makes great, cozy scarves for a fraction of a Burberry or Cashmere price tag. For $12.90, I'll take one in every color. Here are my other favorites- here, here, and here.
3. Jeans - Every girl has her go-to pair of jeans and for me it's these J Brand skinnies. As much as I've wanted to make the boyfriend fit work, there's something about a tight pair of skinny jeans that go with everything. Sadly I've worn these pair so much that their color has faded a bit, but a great excuse to buy another exact pair. I've been eyeing these - here, here, and here.
Jacket | H&M (similar)
Sweater | Forever 21 (similar)
Jeans | J Brand
Scarf | Forever 21
Booties | The Office (similar)
Handbag | Louis Vuitton
Watch | Michael Kors
Hat | Vintage
xx Christie