Kate Spade Archives -

Hey there!

How is it already Thursday and October halfway over? I feel like I haven’t done enough fall-related activities yet. I’ve made chili (this recipe, so good) and my fall wreath is hanging on my door but I still feel behind. I know I haven’t had enough PSL’s (Starbucks Pumpkin Spice Latte for those who missed the memo) and I have yet to make anything with pumpkin in it. I think I’ll find a good pumpkin bread or muffin recipe to make this weekend. If anyone has a good one, send it over!

So. I love this outfit. I love most of what I put on but this one is a favorite. There is something about classic black and white paired with fun accessories that really makes a girl smile. This bag is a repeat, last seen here, but it’s a great transition bag from summer into the fall season. A statement shift dress like this is great because it is easy to just throw on and go, plus they’re good at covering those areas you like to be covered.

This dress was from a secret shopping destination of mine that is now closed. It was Mikkat Market and I found it randomly through the Man Repeller. They had cute quality clothing and accessories at a good price. I think this dress was around $45, that’s how good. Sadly, they have closed the shop but don’t worry, I’ve linked other great options down below!

Details:
Dress: similar here and here | Necklace: BCBG – similar | Shoes: Dolce Vita – also in black | Bag: Kate Spade – similar here and here

Here’s how to rock a simple outfit, yet make a statement:

Accessories are key! Look for bold, eye-catching accessories whether it be killer shoes, a great handbag, or a bold necklace. (Or all three in this case!)
Your clothing must be simple, yet chic. Plain is not what we are going for. You need a good canvas to layer the accessories on.
Don’t be afraid to mix colors and patterns. Pink croc is a bold combination but it works in this case.
Chose one color to be your highlight. I chose pink as my pop color and everything else is a neutral black and white.

Following these guidelines, it’s easy to make a statement without too much fuss. I can’t live without exciting accessories. It’s how to maximize your wardrobe and stretch your closet. Good, quality accessories will take you far.

Have a good weekend all!
xo,
c.

Linking up with: #WIWT, Living in Color Style, Mix & Match Fashion, Penniless Socialite, Rachel the Hat, The Closet by Christie, XOXO Rebecca, Jeans and a Teacup

soul searching

Lately, I’ve been doing a little soul-searching to find out exactly what my purpose is. Trying to figure out what is meant to be for me.

While I don’t have the answer yet, the journey of discovery has been an interesting process. Life is about finding your passion and pursuing that joy that keeps you waking up each morning.

I do enjoy my career in the corporate retail world but God has been nudging me to go deeper, to find what it is that makes me the most happy. Part of that included putting 100% into this blog. The inspiration and idea for this blog came to me five years ago when I was still in college…and I hate admitting that because it took until only a few months ago to really put all of my effort into it. But I love the late nights and extra work. Writing and sharing my life & style is really an expression of the person I’m growing to be.

The other part is thinking about going to law school. I’m not necessarily looking to make a career change and become a lawyer but law school has been something on the back of my mind for a while now. I’ve even found notes on considering law school in random notebooks of mine from prior years. To me, those notes are telling me that I should take a shot at it and see what my path may be. Pray for me as I start studying to take the LSAT (law school entrance exam) in the fall. (Also: ANY tips and insight are most welcome!)

To share this is definitely a big deal for me. I didn’t even tell my closest friends about my first pass at the LSAT until right before I took the test. There is so much beauty in growing as a person and I thank God for each and every day that I get another chance to do so. Through the blogging process and studying for this intense test I’m learning more about myself with each step I take.

As I cultivate this community at The Block is Haute, I hope that this will be a safe place where we can all share our journeys in this walk of life.

Now onto some style!

I’ll share a style secret with you. Colored shorts make dressing so much easier. I love pulling out these J. Crew Chino shorts and pairing with a neutral top + accessories and heading out the door. These shorts and my cutoffs get the most rotation during the summer months. I think I buy a pair every time I hit up J. Crew (which is often). It’s just so easy yet an instant pop of color which you know I live for.