double digits: outfit 10

Outfit 10 has really brought it home that my coworkers probably think I've gone crazy.
Or that I just really like this shirt.
Either way, there are just 3 days left of this mix and match challenge (I'm currently wearing outfit 12) and I'm starting to really itch to wear some of my ignored clothes!
As Holly says in P.S. I Love You, 

"I should get my [clothes]. They're all over the place. They're gonna think I don't love them."

Outfit 10 featured my cream top and cardigan, and my lovely purple lace skirt from LOFT. 

This week is overcast and rainy, and it's rather beautiful out. We've had a few storms come and go, but overall it has been mild and enjoyable.

I have a friend visiting this week, which has been so fun! There's nothing better than always having fun plans, and a tiny apartment full of laughter and good food and friends. 

Top/Skirt: LOFT, Shoes: Zulily

I wore this outfit on Tuesday, and that night we made pasta and had a grisly marathon of Hansel and Gretel, and Warm Bodies. It was an evening spent all bundled up on the couch and it was delightful.

Hansel and Gretel is just a typical kitschy horror flick, but it was enjoyable.

Warm Bodies, on the other hand, was definitely one I'd watch (and even buy) again. 

Having the inner dialogue of a zombie, and seeing life through his perspective, was definitely a refreshing twist on the classic horror trend. And that love was at the center of it all? Adorable.
Another bonus is that the soundtrack is awesome. 

I'd definitely recommend it to even the most squeamish of people, because while it is a movie in the midst of a zombie apocalypse, it's really a light-hearted story about how "love is what makes us human". Love is what unites us.

And keeps us from eating brains.

self-portraits: outfit 6

I haven't done a whole lot of self-portrait photo shoots. I'm always self conscious, and definitely have no idea how to work the settings for a self-timer, or how to position myself, etc. The second outfit during this challenge was the first time I've taken photos of myself not on my back porch or in my own apartment complex. It was extremely nerve-racking, but luckily there weren't any people around and I was able to get a few usable shots!
I knew I was going to have to challenge myself to put myself behind the camera and give my husband a break from daily photo shoots. I need to push myself to be adventurous with my pictures and my locations, and try and get better at understanding my camera and how to best use it for different situations.
The more you practice, the easier it gets!

Outfit 6 featured my classic orange gingham top, and the purple lace skirt, along with a few accessories.

Top: J. Crew, Skirt: LOFT, Necklace: Francesca's, Shoes: Zulily

I got off work early on Friday, so I was running around doing some errands before having to go back to get Dusty. While I was driving around, I found this odd little lake behind several businesses and grocery stores. I spotted a flock of geese as well, so I was somewhat drawn to it. I decided to bite the bullet and take a quick photoshoot, even though it was still a bit too sunny and hot out!

I feel like this town has a lot of secrets, and with only a year left to explore them before we move back home after law school, I'm more motivated than ever to explore and try new things.
I look forward to finding more nooks and crannies to discover and capture.

layering: plaid, sweater, lace

Yesterday's outfit was a mix and match of some of my favorite things.

Plaid, lace, and cozy sweaters. 

I bought this amazing purple lace skirt at LOFT a few months ago, and have only worn it once or twice. 

I've been waiting to find that "it" combination, for a casual everyday outfit that really showcases it. 

I've also been trying to view some of my darker colors as neutrals - experimenting with different color combinations. 

So yesterday I put together the interesting outfit. I ended up really liking how it came together, even though it was a somewhat odd combination!

Upon arriving at Starbucks, the oddity of the ensemble was confirmed by the barista.

You must have the most interesting personal style of anyone I've ever met. Every time you come in here I think, wow. I never would've thought of putting that together. Good for you, though. 

I decided to take it as a compliment, even though it could have also been a sneaky insult. But it confirmed that I was being innovative, and also that I may go to Starbucks too much.

Sweater: Target, Top: J. Crew, Skirt: LOFT, 
Tights/Shoes: Target, Earrings: Gifted/Steinmart

I've found myself reaching for these simple oxford-style shoes more than anything else in my closet.

When I don't feel like wearing boots, these little guys beckon to me. 

They're so comfortable, and work great for the tights-wearing, grab-and-go kind of days. 

Which has been pretty much every day this week. 

If you're looking for something similar, there are definitely plenty of options out there!

Nine West Oxford Flats

Almond Toe Lace-Ups

Waterfall Oxford Flat

Studded Round Toe

Pop of Color Oxfords

Jiselle Oxford Flats

Unfortunately none of those options are my $9 clearance beauties from Target, but improvisation is the lifeblood to getting dressed in the morning. 

I got home yesterday to the most incredible bundles of new clothes and accessories from my mom and my cousin, Charissa.
My cousin has started a new Etsy shop for her crochet accessories, and they're amazing.
She sent me this set which is honestly even better in person. The colors are vibrant, the yarn is soft, and it's so well made. She finished the flower with a crystal button, and the ear-warmer loops around the back with a large porcelain green button. It's darling.
I'm already planning an outfit around them!

Today, my outfit is planned around a bright pink cable-knit sweater from my mom.
I was inspired by a monochromatic outfit from Mara at M Loves M, so I've donned various shades of pink for today's dreary sky!

Come back by tomorrow.

Until then,
Cait