Friday, 16 October 2015

my everyday style: classic fall!

What season is better than fall?!?! I mean really. For me, nothing beats it… I drive around my neighborhood absolutely giddy at the leaves on the ground or fluttering to the ground. There is nothing as beautiful as Michigan in the fall. The air is crisp but sweet and all of nature is showing off.  This past weekend we were in St. Louis and the weather was gorgeous - 70s and 80s with full sun.  But when we came home Sunday night I was almost sad that I had missed three full days of fall in Michigan.  It's like I can't stand missing one sweet moment.  It's so, so good.   This fall seems to be an especially nice one… most of the leaves are still on the tress and the weather is quite warm - but still cool enough for a sweater or an extra layer or pair of boots.

This outfit is classic fall to me… simple and casual layers with a great pair of jeans and boots.  I love that we can wear our cool weather clothes… but without the side of frost bite and snow (it's coming though!).





(photos by Jennifer Ketchum)

Details:
Sunglasses, Warby Parker
Grey Top, Banana Republic
Vest, Old Navy (old but similar or similar or similar less expensive)
Jeans, J.Crew Factory
Boots, Sam Edelman (old but similar or similar or similar or similar)
Necklace, J.Crew (similar or similar)
Bag, J.Crew (similar or similar)


Or shop the pieces here...


Thursday, 15 October 2015

it's sweater season… (cue the squeals of excitement!)

I've got great news! It's sweater season, gals!!!  At least here in Michigan… I know some of you southern ladies are still sweating it out… but it's on it's way, promise!  With temps in the 50s and 60s I have been elated to slowly start pulling out previous season's sweaters and then decide what gaps exist in my wardrobe for the fall and winter.  There is nothing like investing in some new cozy sweaters for fall.

One of my favorite fall outfit combos is a sweater + jeans + boots.  It's easy and warm and stylish when done right!

Here are a few of my current favorite sweaters for this season… There is a little bit of everything here and at every price point. I hope you have a blast shopping for new fall sweaters this year!


one (SO SO classic!), two, three, four
five, six (looks SO cozy!), seven, eight
nine, ten, eleven, twelve (love the jewels on these!)
thirteen, fourteen, fifteen (love the buttons on this!), sixteen

Or shop the pieces below...


Wednesday, 14 October 2015

MAJOR Shopbop Sale! OMG!!!

It's that time of year - time for the ultra popular Shopbop Friends and Family sale and let me tell you - it's GOOD!  Like reaaalllllll good!

Use the code: INTHEFAM25 for 25% off your order at Shopbop until October 15 to score some super major deals on all the brand names that you love that rarely go on sale!

Here are a few of my favorites - many of which are beloved classics in my wardrobe already and a few that I hope to add to my closet soon!  Shop now as these amazing pieces will be flying off the shelves this week!  Happy shopping!


top row, from left: red blanket scarf, black plaid scarf, zebra key chain (so cute!), watch, gorjana necklace & earrings (both personal favorites of mine!)



bottom row, from left: saltwater boots (love!), hunter boots (a total MUST have!), sorel boots (I own these and LOVE them), ankle boots, lace up flats



Tuesday, 13 October 2015

how to style distressed denim… (10 picks under $100!!!)

Distressed denim has been a closet staple for quite a few years for me.  Seeing as I wear jeans nearly everyday, I like to add a little variety to the selection I wear and distressed denim does just that for me.  I love that it adds a little texture and a lot of "the devil may care" attitude to any look.  It's perfect for weekend looks and even better for Monday or Tuesday looks when you wish it was the weekend.

But let's be honest… distressed jeans are well, you know, distressed.  So no one wants to fork out big bucks for jeans with holes in them. I get that.  I will say that distressed denim LATELY seems to be much better quality than the pairs I used to buy 5+ years ago.  They seem more 'sturdy' now… if that makes sense. And even with rips, tears and holes they seem to hold up.  If you don't want to buy ripped jeans that can potentially rip further look for "ripped and repaired" in the product description.  A lot of times these will have stitching to reinforce the rips to insure they don't rip further.

Tips for styling distressed denim: 

1. Pair your distressed jeans with overly feminine pieces like a bold necklace, delicate & beautiful shoes or a beautiful blouse.
2. Wear neutrals like stripes, grey, black or white with your distressed jeans to avoid over complicating the look.  Avoid heavy patterns.
3. Add a structured piece or two like a blazer or structured handbag to elevate the look.

Here are 10 distressed jeans that I kind of sort of mostly LOVE… and they are all under $100.  Plus, I threw in a little distressed jeans eye candy to get the creative juices flowing for styling up for your awesome new pair of ripped jeans this fall!  What is your favorite way to style distressed denim!?!?


one, two, three, four, five (I own this pair and love them, the denim is so soft!), six, seven, eight, nine, ten

Or scroll through the pieces and shop them below...


Monday, 12 October 2015

my everyday style: a denim alternative!

I'm a pretty die hard denim fan.  If you've been reading this blog for more than 5 minutes you will likely catch on to that one pretty quickly. It's hard to pull me away from denim on a daily basis… but these pants won my heart the moment I put them on.  And while they aren't my beloved denim, they are a very close second in stylability and comfort.  Because even I need to take a break from denim every once in a while.  Right!?!?

I've styled these pants with striped shirts, chambray shirts, black tops and here, with my favorite grey sweater. So like I mentioned, they are pretty easy to style up.  It would also be fun to pair a bright red or pink sweater with these pants too if you crave more color.  

One day while wearing these pants recently I had a crazy vivid flashback to owning almost these same EXACT pants in college… except they were a wide leg (which was more popular back in the late 90's).  I remember wearing the heck out of those pants… and here my style has virtually come full circle with almost the same exact pant, just in an updated cut for 2015.  Isn't that crazy how style works like that?! I do believe I also owned and loved a pair of denim overalls during that same period… those however I will NOT be bringing with me into the present.  Style wins some and it loses some, I guess.





(photos by Jennifer Ketchum)

Outfit Details:
Sunglasses, Warby Parker
Sweater, J.Crew (similar or similar)
Bag, Rebecca Minkoff (same bag on sale in pink or leopard or with fringe!)
Flats, Dolce Vita (similar or similar or I love these velvet ones!)
Bracelets, Gorjana & Margaret Elizabeth via Rocksbox use code: jillggxoxo for your first month FREE

Or shop the pieces below...


Friday, 9 October 2015

shop the fall sales!

How is your fall wardrobe shaping up!?!? With a few cool days (thankfully more warm fall days than anything) I have loved digging into my fall wardrobe, seeing where I have holes and doing a little shopping.

Today I worked to track down some awesome fall finds for you gals that just so happen to also be on SALE!  Bingo!  It's the best of both worlds… so set aside some time this weekend for a warm cup of apple cider and some online shopping, because you won't want to miss out on these deals!

shop the pieces here: 
bucket bag (30% off!), check scarf (25% off!), distressed boyfriend jeans (30% off!), flats (20% off!), uggs (30% off!), cable knit sweaterraw stone necklaceskinny jeans (30% off!), utility jacketblack hobo bag (40% off!), bracelet (only $5!), grey scarfstriped topearrings (33% off!)

Or shop the pieces below...

Thursday, 8 October 2015

fall color trend: crazy for camel!

Camel is a gorgeous fall hue that I am drawn to again and again. It's a warm color that pairs well with blacks, other browns, greys and even bright colors, making it the perfect fall and winter color to have on hand.  With it's ability to mix and match easily with your wardrobe it makes for an instantly classic piece.

Investing in camel for your wardrobe is investing in your wardrobe for years to come… these pieces will stand the test of time and will pair with any trends you throw at it.  Here are some of my favorite camel colors for fall… you are sure to find one you like here, I'm crushing on quite a few of these pieces myself!


or shop the pieces here: 




Wednesday, 7 October 2015

fall closet staple: the blazer!

It's no secret around here that I am a blazer fanatic… I'm guessing a few of my you gals reading right now are too.  In my opinion there is a blazer for every occasion and an occasion for every blazer.  I definitely could wear this closet staple everyday… especially this time of year.  Blazers are the absolute perfect transitional wear… which means for me they get heavy wear in the spring and especially the fall.

I love that you can layer a blazer over a tank, tee or even a sweater… so you can really customize your outfit for the seasons and your style effortlessly.  Here are eight of my favorite blazer looks that I have worn here on the blog… PLUS my top picks for blazers that are in stores this fall. There are seriously SO. MANY. GORGEOUS. OPTIONS.  It's darn near impossible to even choose a favorite here… but tweed, velvet and houndstooth have got to take the cake here.  But all of these are gorgeous and classic pieces that would be perfect in any fall wardrobe.   What are your favorites? I'd love to hear!



or shop the pieces below…



Tuesday, 6 October 2015

under $50 finds for fall!

We've chatted before about the "magic" price point here on the blog… I think for a lot of us it's $50. I know I am included… I invest in jeans and shoes and handbags from time to time, but when I'm out shopping or perusing online there is for sure something magic about the $50 price range.

Here I pulled together a few of my favorite under $50 pieces for fall… a few fun and whimsical pieces are thrown in with some really awesome wardrobe basics that will be great to wear all fall and well into winter.  Having an amazing wardrobe isn't always about spending tons of money.  You can easily dress well on a budget by simply knowing where to shop and keeping an eye out for good deal. What are you favorite pieces here? What is your magic number for shopping?


shop the pieces: 

fall nail polish set, I love essie's new colors each season… these adorable tiny polishes are perfect for trying out new colors! 
cream scarf, so cozy!
double necklace, I'm obsessed with delicate necklaces lately… this one is gorgeous!
heart t-shirt, perfect for layering under cardigans and blazers this fall.
tassel earrings, I'm kind of obsessed with these? How perfect are they to dress up a simple outfit this fall? I'm thinking: black on black or chambray and denim.
long line cardigan, long cardigans are HOT this fall… this one is a great deal!
distressed jeans, you know I can't get enough distressed denim.  This are awesome and for a steal!
window-pane flannel shirt, I'm super digging this pattern and especially in flannel. So warm for fall.
lace up flats, this seasons hottest trend - I would pair these with boyfriend jeans.
plaid scarf, I can never have enough plaid scarves this time of year. This one is gorgeous and perfectly priced.
"oui" tote, so darling! Perfect for trips to the farmers market or library - two of my favorite fall activities!

or shop the pieces below…






Monday, 5 October 2015

my everyday style: a red blazer!

I bought this red blazer on super super sale a few years ago, pretty much on a whim. Especially since I'm not big with color or bold statement pieces for my wardrobe.  But looking back it was such a stellar purchase and one that I am so thankful that I snagged way back then.  I continue to love it and love the bold statement it makes in my wardrobe - especially in the fall and winter.   It's also a testament to investing in your wardrobe. While I got this blazer for a great deal, it is a beautiful and high quality piece that will last for years.  When we invest in our wardrobe in this way, it always pays off.  Here I am two (maybe three?) years later and still really loving this piece. 

Have you ever made a bold purchase or investment for your wardrobe that totally paid off? 






(photos by Jennifer Ketchum)

Outfit details:
Blazer, J.Crew (old but very similar)
Jeans, Banana Republic (similar or similar)
Flats, Sam Edelman (or similar)
Bag, Michael Kors (similar or similar)
Earrings, Gorjana

Or shop the pieces here...


Friday, 2 October 2015

what to pack: fall weekend getaway!

Each fall I love to plan a little getaway weekend to sightsee and relax while enjoying the fall foliage and newly fresh and crisp fall air.  Antiquing with a warm drink in hand, cozying up by the fireplace with a good book or enjoying a delicious farm-to-table meal with fall produce are great ways to explore new towns and relax and unwind in the fall.

Here I pulled together a few simple pieces to pack for a relaxing fall weekend away.  Cozy layers, comfortable shoes and a few extra warm layers are perfect to pack and then mix and match together for several outfits in one small bag.




Or shop the pieces here: 



Thursday, 1 October 2015

on my radar/september 2015

With a little dip in the temps this week I am in full on fall mode… scarves, boots, warm drinks - you name it, I'm ready for it.  Or at least I am working on prepping for it.  Here are a few things on my radar this month as fall arrives.


black midi dress, perfect with a denim or leather jacket and flats - love this!

cream saddle bag, I'm loving cream for fall and this bag is the perfect size.

'why not me?' by Mindy Kaling… I'm pretty much the biggest MK fan ever. Ever. Her new book is great!

earrings, these earrings are delicate and sweet and perfect for pairing with turtlenecks or scarves.

plaid scarf, I mean… plaid scarf. I want this one and every other one that crosses my path these days! (or less expensive option)

fur hooded coat, this coat is on my winter wish list. It's not too soon to start planning (or shopping)!

riding boots… this pair has me drooling. I mean, how gorgeous!?!? (or less expensive option)

Warby Parker + Maiyet sunglasses, I love this French partnership with Warby Parker! Aren't these stunning?

sneakers… these are giving hearts in my eyes. I'm obsessed!

Or shop the pieces here…



Wednesday, 30 September 2015

my everyday style: blue and black!

Fall layers are my absolute favorite. They are easy and noncommittal.  My leather jacket is one of the best investments I've ever made for my wardrobe.  This baby gets a ton of wear.  Here I paired it with a preppy oxford for a simple and classic look.







(photos by Jennifer Ketchum)

Outfit details:
Leather Jacket, Zara (old but similar, similar or similar less expensive)
Oxford Top, Banana Republic
Jeans, Banana Republic (similar or similar)
Bag, Madewell
Sunglasses, Nordstrom Rack (similar or similar)
Earrings, Kendra Scott
Necklace, Gorjana via Rocksbox - get your first month free with code: jillggxoxo

Or shop the pieces here…

Tuesday, 29 September 2015

how to style plaid for fall!

With the falling leaves and the chill in the air - plaid is a given for fall.   It's perfect for layering or dressing up or down…

Here I styled it up four ways for whatever fall event you have on tap these days.  I love the idea of dressing plaid up with black jeans and flats for a night out on the town - just add red lipstick to complete the look!  Are you heading out to the apple orchards or pumpkin patch this weekend? If so, pair a plaid top with shorts and moccasins for the perfect laid back fall look. If you are a mom on the go grab a plaid top, denim jacket and a pair of army green pants for a simple and stylish look.  Lastly, layer up your plaid top with a cardigan and pair it with ankle boots to cheer for your favorite football team.

get the looks:







or shop the pieces below...

Monday, 28 September 2015

my everyday style: fall whites!

I'm a little obsessed with wearing white for fall… especially multiple layers of it - and I'm a lot obsessed with lace lately. These two obsessions come together in this outfit and it was an instant favorite.

(Also, a big shout out to DENYM that helped us out during our recent photoshoot… if you are in the Grand Rapids area you have GOT to check out this little boutique.  They have tons of denim for men and women and lots more.)







(photos by Jennifer Ketchum)

Outfit details:
Jeans, Target (similar or similar)
Bag, Michael Kors (similar or similar)
Shoes, Dolce Vita (similar or similar)

Or shop the pieces here…