monochromatic: blushing pink

I love a great monochromatic look.
There's something really bold about it - almost tantalizing, like it's against the rules somehow.
Kind of like my childhood leopard outfit debacle, it's usually a terrible idea to compose an entire outfit out of the same pattern or color.
But at some point, someone came along and proved that monochromatic can be absolutely fierce, stylish, and can accomplish a really unique fashion statement.

Mara over at M Loves M created a monochromatic outfit in blue, and she was actually the inspiration for my compilation!

If I was really dedicated, I would have donned some pink tights and pink shoes, but I think that would've killed the moment. And maybe scared the neighbors.
Being my first attempt, I settled for a pink and brown look, with the leopard watch as the accent pattern.
Leopard is my favorite.

Dress: Gifted/Kohl's, Sweater: Gifted/LOFT, Necklace: Gifted
Tights: Target, Shoes: Poetic License (on sale)
Watch: La Mer, Target (shop!)

I seriously could wear a cable knit sweater like this every single day.
Dress it up or dress it down.
So cozy I could sleep in it.
This entire outfit is made up of various gifted items. My birthday dress from my best friend Becky, this bright pink sweater from my mom, and the necklace for Christmas from my friend Allison.

Even from thousands of miles away, my mom finds ways to shop with me!
She sent me an happy box of new sweaters and accessories, just because. I miss mom and daughter times.

I'm spending the entire weekend reading and checking off my to-do list.
Friday was slow in coming, but now that it's here, I can't wait to get started on weekend projects!
I love how full of hope and potential the weekend is - most of the time, once Sunday comes, I realize I haven't done anything productive. BUT, it's always nice, on Friday, to wish and dream and plan all the cleaning, crafting, reading and daydreaming I'll be doing. :)

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