Jungle Green

{ H&M jacket and tights, Forever 21 coat and dress, Michael Kors watch, Topshop shoes, Vintage bag, and Urban's hologram polish}

I have always felt that leopard and greens evoke a sense of instant luxury and polish. In combining a green suede moto jacket and faux leopard coat over an all black base of a pleated dress with tights and boots, the prints and colors of the jackets and carpet bag are able to have the attention that they strive for. Although first worried that the bag's pattern and the leopard's spots would not mesh pleasingly, I was pleasantly surprised how they managed to come off as that perfectly undone quality that I strive for. 

Feeling Batty

{H&M Sweater, Forever 21 Skirt, Vintage Bag, Steve Madden Shoes, Essie's "Mojito Madness" Polish}

While novelty sweaters often featuring animals have been popular lately, I wasn't really a fan of the ones with cats, rabbits, or deer. However, this sweater featuring an upside-down bat, was one that had a personality to it that was quirky and unique without being cutesy. And, when paired with a pleather pleated skirt and vintage carpet bag, this festive novelty sweater doesn't have to just be reserved for Halloween, as it brings an unexpected twist to any outfit. 

Person of Interest: Elisa Nalin

I have been watching stylist and design consultant Elisa Nalin's style for a while now, and I have to say, that I am currently smitten. Her style is sort of quirky and unique with a tomboyish flair and platinum pixie cut, but at the same time feminine and definitely colorful. I am particularly fond of how she can make prints that would otherwise be too symbolic, such as palm trees or leaves, be toned down with a blazer or pleated skirt and still come off with a sort of charm and interest to them. From the collage above, Elisa is also a master at combining interesting color and pattern palettes to create instant trends and overall appeal.

What do you think of Elisa Nalin's style? Are you as in love as I am?

 1, 2, 3, 4

Penny For Your Thoughts

{GAP jacket, Joe Fresh T-Shirt, Forever 21 skirt, Michael Kors watch, Necessary Clothing belt, Bracelet from SoHo vender, and Topshop Penny Loafers}

When my sandals split in half a few weeks ago, I had an excuse to replace them. Of course, knowing me, I opted for a pair of penny loafers, instead. They have the perfect sort of vintage-looking-look to them while still being made in a modern sense. And, by actually sticking pennies in their little slots, have a bit of added charm, as well. I loved the way that they looked with a pleated polka dot skirt and a crisp white denim jacket and chartreuse belt.

Cutouts + Cream

{Madewell top, Forever 21 leotard, Necessary Clothing belt, Zara skirt, Michael Kors watch, and Steve Madden shoes}

Though I am dress person by nature, I have really been into separate pieces lately. I love the way that there are so many options to pair different skirts and tops (like here) and the opportunity to play with textures, various patterns, and shapes. With this cut-out lace top, it is easy to alter it slightly by pairing with a colored tank top or simple blank bandeau for the braver type. The flowy miniskirt keeps this look summery and is finished off with a neon belt for a bit of interest to an otherwise neutral composition. 

Fanned out florals

{ Forever 21 blouse, H&M skirt, Michael Kors watch, and Aldo sandals }

Yes you are looking at yet another picture including a pleated garment. However, this skirt is far different than any of the others. When I saw this skirt at H&M believe me, I resisted. I thought to myself "Leah, do you really need another pleated skirt"? But, when I went to touch it, as I often do when deciding on a piece of clothing, it was made of an amazing and almost neoprene material. I found it interesting how such a seemingly feminine skirt with it's great fuchsia color and accordion fanned out pleats could be made of such an athletic and sporty material. I love the way that the pleats are so structured and hold their shape and the length is so ladylike. So friends, for these reasons, it made it's way into my wardrobe...pleats being just an added bonus. 

Purple Pleats

{Zara blouse, Necessary Clothing skirt, Steve Madden shoes, Michael Kors watch}

If I could only choose one perfect way for clothes to make their way into my heart, it would be pleats. They are the perfect combination of put together structure and girly whimsical appeal and regardless of how old I get, I still feel the need to twirl when wearing them. Lately, I have been in a purple mood. I am drawn to all shades of the color as it is seems to be slightly more grown up than pink, but still provides that sweet femininity that it brings. This skirt, in it's sort of ultra neon violet shade adorned with those perfect pleats, make it such a desirable piece that is indeed twirl worthy.