Fashion Resolution: The Outer Layer

Pre-New Year up until a few weeks ago, I started compiling a 'Fashion Resolutions' list for 2015.  I realize that we are well into January now, but better late than never??  The list I created includes resolutions for my everyday styling.  Mostly trying to do more of things I like but for whatever reason don't do that often.  First up [since it is so frigid today in the typically sunny CA], I chose 'The Outer Layer'.  I want to find new and different ways to work my outfits.  So often I start with a top or dress and just go from there.  I thought this time I would start with the outermost piece and work my way in [that's what he said.]  This luxurious coat from Mint and Pink [< - - click the link!] is the perfect starting point since it is so structured and detailed that it is pretty much an outfit in itself.  Oh, and it is super warm and snuggly.  [Did I mention that it's cold today?!]

I love the fact that you can wear this open, with a low collar, or . . . wait for it . . .

You can hook the button to the back part of the garment and wear it all bundled up.  BOOM, magical coat.

Does anyone think I look like I belong on a ranch, or is that just me?  Guess I should start adding these pix to my 'rancher's wear' board on Pinterest . . .

I like the swingy, Audrey Hepburn-esque feel of this coat.  La-la-la!

Since it's in the 50s in the bay area today [I just checked], I probably won't be unbuttoning this coat much.  But I DO have something under there.

Annnnd an outtake of me and my baby Marls for good measure.  She makes me so happy.  And I kinda think she likes me too (:

I think we can all agree that Marley is the more photogenic of the two subjects pictured here today.

What I'm Wearing:

Jacket - Mint and Pink < - - click the link!

Hat - Crossroads Trading Co

Necklace - Icing

Sweater, Booties, and Handbag - Forever 21

Jeans - Echo Clubhouse

*This post is sponsored by Mint & Pink

Beauty Tuesday: Orange Lips

When it comes to orange / red orange lips . . .

Think Leighton:

Not Grandma:

All jokes aside, I stick to a few guidelines when donning an orange / red orange lip:

#1 Pick a color that is bold, looks purposeful, and pops.

As you can see from Miss Pink Tulle up above, the color is lighter, harder to distinguish, more of a mauve tone . . and just plain Grandma.  (For the sake of keeping things on topic, we won't go into her wardrobe choice at this point in time.)

I prefer a color that is a bit more red in tone and that is darker.  I feel it goes better with my skin tone - the darker color pops against my fair complexion.

#2 Keep the rest simple

Since your orange lip is already the statement . . let that be the statement.  Keep the rest of your makeup and hair simple.

#3 Pair the look with fashion-forward, modern pieces

This will keep the look on trend and from looking like you stole Granny's 1980's tube of Revlon.

My top picks to keep you trending cheaply:

I found all three items at my local CVS (drugstore) but have provided direct links to online retailers + prices below.

Milani - Color Statement Lipstick - Sweet Nectar - $5.49

(what I'm wearing)

I love the way this smells - fruity but not overpowering.

NYC - City Proof Twistable Intense Lip Color - Canal St Coral - $3.95

This stuff smells SO good and goes on super soft.

Maybelline - Color Sensational Vivids Lip Color - Electric Orange - $5.50

I've used these lipsticks from Maybelline before and find them to be incredibly easy to wear and long-lasting.

Outfit Details:

Bun Form - Gifted

Earrings and Necklace - francesca's

Crop Top - Vintage

Maxi Skirt - Gifted

Wedges - Gifted

Clutch - jest jewels