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...

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!)

2nd row, from left: black vegan leather jacket, camel coat, distressed jeans, skinny jeans, vegan leather leggings, striped dress, "tres bien" tee, lace hem sweater

3rd row, from left: aviator sunglasses, tortoise sunglasses, tote, mini cross body (my favorite!!), camel satchel

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

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)

Pants, J.Crew (on sale! or similar or similar less expensive)

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...

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 sweater, raw stone necklace, skinny jeans (30% off!), utility jacket, black hobo bag (40% off!), bracelet (only $5!), grey scarf, striped top, earrings (33% off!)

Or shop the pieces below...

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!

shop the pieces: leather wrap bracelet, crew neck sweater, ankle boots, scarf, sweater poncho, vest, belted coat, trousers, flats, hobo bag, cardigan, clutch

or shop the pieces here: 

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!

1. navy tweed 2. camel herringbone 3. grey boyfriend 4. classic navy 5. black one-button 6. grey ruched sleeves 7. houndstooth 8. grey velvet 9. bright red wool 10. camel corduroy 11. grey herringbone 12. knit one-button

or shop the pieces below…

my everyday style: the ultimate fall cardigan 3 ways with Modcloth!

When the calendar clicks over to September… my mind instantly goes to plaid and cozy sweaters with a little more plaid thrown in.  I just can't get enough of it this time of year… and granted the weather is still not getting the "fall" vibe so much, but when the temps drop I will be ready!

Today I am partnering with Modcloth to feature their new namesake label… we all know and love Modcloth and the amazing indie labels they carry and now they are adding their own Modcloth Label Collection to the mix!  Inspired the shoppers that love the brand and love the attention to detail and stand-out style that Modcloth is know for.

This snuggly plaid cardigan is going to be a fall staple in my wardrobe for sure.  Here I had some fun styling it up three different ways for early fall into early winter.  I love how the pop of red makes itself right at home in my neutral based wardrobe.  This cardigan will be perfect for fall and winter and definitely into the holidays as well.  See how I style it below and make sure to pop on over to Modcloth to check out their new private label… there is something for everyone there! (this sweater comes in white and black too!)

Layered with a tee and shorts is perfect for these late summer days where the mornings and evenings can be chilly…

(cardigan - ℅ Modcloth, sunglasses/similar, tee/similar, shorts/similar, sandals, bag)

Paired with a striped top and ankle boots this cardigan is perfect for crisp autumn days.

(cardigan - ℅ Modcloth, striped top, bag/similar, ankle boots/similar, jeans/similar)

Ready to get really cozy? Pair this cardigan with a chambray top and leggings for a chilly fall day!

(cardigan- ℅ Modcloth, sunglasses, earrings, necklace, chambray top/similar, leggings/similar, ankle boots - ℅ Modcloth, clutch/similar)

Shop my top picks from the new Modcloth Private Label here:

closet staple: military-inspired vest!

When I randomly picked up this military-inspired vest over two years ago I never thought it would be as versatile as it has turned out to be.  It's been a real gem.  It's been a life-saver for adding a little extra something-something to an outfit no matter the season.

As you can see below, I've worn this vest spring, summer, fall and winter.  It's one of only a handful of items in my closet that can truly be worn all four seasons with ease. It's perfect to layer with sweaters, dresses, chambray and I especially love it with the faux fur collar! I can't wait to try that again this fall.

one,  shawl collar

two, linen utility vest

three, military vest

four, military vest

five, drawstring military vest

six, oversized cargo vest

Or shop the pieces below…

my everyday style: last call for winter!

Spring is finally starting to show it's face… though it's only March I have to be careful not to get TOO excited here.  But still - there is hope!  When the temps start rising I like to look through my closet and take a "last call" for winter.  I make sure that my favorite sweaters and winter pieces get their fair share of wear before they are done for the season. These black coated denim pants could probably get a few more wears into spring… but this sweater will be done until fall when the weather gets to warm.

Do you have certain pieces you will want to wear before winter is over? (or are you totally over it!?!?)

(photos by Tracy Carmody)

Details:

Black Coated Jeans, Gap (similar or similar less expensive)

Sweater, Banana Republic (similar)

Bag, Rebecca Minkoff Mini MAC (similar for a steal or similar less expensive)

Flats, Sam Edelman (or love these jeweled ones!)

my everyday style: throw on a vest!

Like clockwork every year, the end of February arrives and I want to ditch my whole winter wardrobe. Throw it to the curb, sell it all, just get it out of here - I am so sick of it!  Every morning I look into my closet and it seems like there is only two sweaters and one pair of jeans for me.  My style world seems small and repetitive.  After wearing and re-wearing the same stuff all winter I'm just plain sick of it.

It always seems like a monumental task to find yet one more variation on the jeans, sweater, boots combo each morning.  I will say that adding a vest can really help… they are quite warm (almost surprisingly warm!) and they can really change up a simple look to keep your wardrobe looking fresh.   Plus, the work really well under your winter coat… so the look is quite practical as well.

(photos by Tracy Carmody)

Details:
Jeans, Gap
Sweater, Banana Republic (similar)
Boots, Coach (similar on sale! or similar or similar less expensive)
Vest, Old Navy (similar or similar - love this one!)
Bag, Madewell

elements of style v.15!

I'm back with another fun Elements of Style for you today… simply put I have a little formula for quickly pulling together amazing outfits in a snap and I call these posts 'elements of style'.  I like to choose something casual, something neutral and then a few dressy pieces to amp the look up!  It's really so simple and makes getting dressed ultra easy.

Each individual will translate "casual", "neutral" and "dressy" different depending on your personal style and what event or environment you are dressing for.

Today I really wanted to bring you a fun little pre-spring look, because seriously friends… how sick of winter are we!?!? It's terrible!  I am SO over winter and winter clothes and cold and snow.  But I wanted to challenge myself (and you!) to finish the winter strong! We can do it!

Here is an awesome weather-appropriate look that still packs plenty of style AND warmth.  The best of both worlds!  I've had my eyes on these boots… they are on sale and I could really use a new pair of boots seeing as my pairs get way overused.   I've been absolutely living in my J.Crew Pixie pants lately - they have definitely been one of my best investment pieces in my closet. They are surprisingly warm (though some days nothing seems warm enough) and they work great with oversized sweaters and extra layers on top.  I paired those casual and neutral pieces with a gorgeous blouse and earrings that will make you feel beautiful and feminine even though you are all bundled up!

(get the look: leggings, sweater, blouse, boots, earrings, bag)

my everyday style: a simple sweater!

A jeans, boots, sweater combo never ever fails… that is probably why I wear and over-wear this formula to the point of being sick of it.  Even though I tire of this type of outfit from time to time there is no denying that it's one of my favorites.

There is no better feeling than bundling up with a cozy sweater on a cold day…

(photos by Tracy Carmondy)

Details: 

Sweater, Old Navy (similar or similar)

Jeans, Gap (similar)

Boots, Sam Edelman (similar or similar)

what to pack: winter weekend getaway!

This is the perfect time of year to take a winter weekend getaway.  A cozy cabin in the woods where you can read by the fire, take winter hikes or go sledding with the kids is a great way to chase away the winter blues.  Here I pulled together a simple and comfortable packing list for just that sort of weekend!

Packing versatile basics like jeans and ponte leggings make mixing and matching tons of outfits a breeze.  My personal favorite would be pairing the white sweater with sweatpants and slippers for sipping tea by the fire!  But you could even dress up these basics by pairing the ponte leggings with the riding boots, a black sweatshirt and a scarf if you were going to head out for dinner.  There are so many outfit possibilities here for keeping warm and staying stylish!

scarf, ponte leggings, sorel boots, black sweatshirt, jeans, cardigan, sneakers, sweatpants, riding boots, leather tote, grey t-shirt, white turtleneck sweater, slippers

my everyday style: the leather jacket!

Patience pays off in style… this leather jacket is living proof!  This is the jacket I bought back in September but then had to return because it didn't fit… sad face. Enter the after-Christmas sales and I snagged this baby for half off! In the right size! And it fits perfect!

Last fall I really started craving a black leather jacket - I've never owned one before - and I fell in love with this simple and classic silhouette.  While it would have been nice to have in my closet all fall… I'm happy it's in my closet now.  I plan on getting tons of wear out of this baby.  It's perfect to layer with a lightweight sweater and a chunky scarf, like I did here. But I can also envision pairing it with an oxford for a casual but refined look, graphic tees for the weekend or dressy tanks and jeans for a night out with friends or my husband.

I really hope to make 2015 the year of classic investments and with this jacket I am off to a good start!

(photos by Tracy Carmondy)

Details:

Scarf, Banana Republic - on sale! (less expensive option)

Jacket, Zara (sold out online but similar or similar)

Sweater, LOFT (similar or similar)

Jeans, Banana Republic - my new favorite jeans!

Boots, Coach (similar on sale or similar also on sale)

Earrings, Kendra Scott

my outfit: a fresh start!

January marks the anniversary that I started this blog way back in 2008 (SEVEN years ago!)  Back then I had a three year old and a six month old, I was a working full time outside of the house and I was about to turn 30.  In the coming year I would proceed to quit my job twice, watch my hopes dashed as my dream job/industry would become a wasteland due to the economy and wade into the scary and unknown-to-me land of being a stay-at-home mom. In that year I don't know if I "found" blogging… or if blogging found me. I have a feeling it was the later.

I created this blog to help find my personal style and hopefully help others do the same along the way.  In 2014 I wondered if it was time to bow out of blogging.  2014 was an amazing year for the blog… on paper, it was the best year yet. But in my heart something wasn't feeling right. But every time I seriously thought about quitting… the computer drew me back, my readers drew me back and before I knew it I was publishing another post.   While no one knows what the future holds I don't think blogging is done with me yet. And with a fresh year upon us, I am more excited than ever about this blog, where it's going, what it's intended to do and the place it holds in my life.  I'm so thankful for my readers who make this blog what it is.

This new year and a fresh start couldn't come at a better time.  I can't wait to see what 2015 has in store for us! Cheers!

(photos by Jennifer Ketchum)

Details:
Coat, J.Crew (similar or similar)
Bag, J.Crew (similar or similar)
Sweater, Gap
Jeans, Gap (similar)
Flats, Madewell (similar or similar)