FESTIVE FALL

I adore fall for all its rusted colors, and this skirt speaks volume in that category. This skirt is special to me because it is from my aunt. It was passed along to me and I love it so much not only for the color, but also because of the sentimental value! Knowing that she wore this same garment when she was around my age gets me thinking about all the adventures and outfits that she had while wearing it. It was perfect for this cloudy day while hanging around Yale. So much love for all the old charm! Also, I got to make some homemade pumpkin granola today too. I felt extremely festive and glad! Here's a final result of the yummy fall baking:

Have a wonderful start to your weekend!

Outfit Details:

Lace slip- Kimchi Blue (similar)

Sweater- Ecote (similar)

Skirt- from my aunt <3

Belt- Ecote 

Boots- thrifted

<3 Annalise

LACE BELL-SLEEVE LOVIN'

My obsession with lace continues. This lace bell-sleeve kimono has me so excited for the end of summer transitioning to fall. I love being able to pair a kimono like this with a 90's floral dress and western belt. This will definitely be a favorite piece this season.

On a side note, my hair is finally feeling longer and I've been so excited to be experimenting more with braids! A braid post may be soon to come. Any thoughts?

Outfit Details:

Kimono- Love Sadie

Dress- Urban Renewal

Belt- Ecote

Shoes- Thrifted Justin Roper boots

<3 Annalise

SIMPLE SOUTHWESTERN

While I love the boho look of layering, I also love neutral simplicity that's highlighted with a bold pattern or texture. Put tea-stained lace, distressed denim, western boots, and some southwestern prints and I'm one happy girl. I wanted to show you Bloomers how a little goes a long way in making an outfit that accents on a certain style, while still being subtle. In addition, most of these items were either thrifted or on sale proving that you can fill your wardrobe with the things you love at an affordable price! You just have to get out there and find it while spotting the potential in the item when you see it. 

So here are 5 simple outfit inspirations! :

Poncho - Orvis

Dress - Thrifted in Madrid, Spain

Boots - thrifted

Dress - Free People

Hat - RVCA

Boots - Minnetonka

Denim Jacket - Thrifted

Lace Kimono Jacket - Band of Gypsies

Boots- Thrifted Justin Roper

Top - Free People

Bolo - Thrifted

Boots - Chippewa

Denim Jacket - Thrifted

Dress- Urban Oufitters

Belt - Urban Outfitters

Boots - Ecote

Keeping accessories minimal like a belt, hat, or bolo let the details and designs of that piece shine! It keeps the attention on more subtle features as opposed to the overwhelming sense of layering. Then texture and patterns can play up with each other more instead of being hidden.

Have a great Wednesday :)!

<3 Annalise

FLORAL FASHIONS & PRAIRIE SILHOUETTES

Hey Bloomers! This time of year I can't help but cherish and appreciate my mom's gardens. Pulling up to my parents' house and seeing all the colors and mature growth I'm immediately inspired with creativity to paint, cook, decorate, and look at the pieces in my closet a bit differently. I wanted to share with you guys how taking the time to appreciate the simple things can inspire us more than we think. My mom and I make arrangements all around the house to bring that creativity indoors. 

I can't help but look at these arrangements and think of fashion. Here are pictures of my mom's arrangements as inspiration for some of my favorite dresses! 

Bazaar Dress by Fabrik

Embroidered Mesh Nightie by Free People 

Bonita Dress by For Love & Lemons

I guess you can say I have an obsession with prairie lace and soft embroideries. When I see an arrangement of flowers I can't help but think of old time fabrics and silhouettes. Are any of you inspired by your gardens? I'd love to know what gets you feeling creative! 

Have a lovely Tuesay! 

<3 Annalise 

DAINTY WOLF

Hello Bloomers! I just got back from a weekend in Washington, D.C. and Richmond, VA with some amazing friends. I'll post some pictures I snapped while I was there, but first I want to share outfit pics Amy took of me before I left. 

It was about 60 degrees out and gorgeous. I wanted to add some girly accents like my lace kimono and ruffle socks. This tee is one of my favorites because not only was it $2 at Savers (Danny picked it up and let me have it!), but it also fits like a tunic. With cold weather on the way again, it was nice to spend some time outside. Have a wonderful Monday!

Outfit Details:

Shirt- thrifted (thanks Danny!)

Kimono- Band of Gypsies (here)

Leggings- Forever 21(similar)

Socks- Top Shop (similar)

Shoes- Schuh (similar)

<3 Annalise

RINGS AND THINGS

I was overjoyed this week when my hairdresser was able to squeeze me in for a quick color. This is the longest my hair has been in four years, and I'm pretty excited to finally do color in a different way! I decided to keep the red this time and add a honey/orange ombre. On top of it all, I was excited to pair together my lacy white top with hints of blue. 

Outfit Details:

Crochet top- Thrifted

Skirt- Forever 21

Belt- Forever 21

Necklace- Made by Nicole <3

Jewelry- Thrifted/family

Shoes- Schuh

<3 Annalise

SWAP SHOP SUNRISE

Hey Bloomers! Sorry I've been MIA the past few days, but I was on a short vacation in Florida enjoying the perfect weather.  I couldn't pass up this opportunity and had to get some outfit photos while I was there. It felt so nice not having to wear any winter clothes. These pictures were taken at the Swap Shop in Fort Lauderdale. The Swap Shop is a huge flea market and drive-in movie theater. My family is serious about antiquing and thrifting so we got up before dawn to get here (We may be a little crazy). When we got there the sun was just coming up so I thought it was perfect for some pictures! Hopefully we'll see spring soon.

Outfit Details:

Lace Kimono- Band of Gypsies (here)

Bustier- Urban Outfitters (here)

Belt- Forever 21 (similar)

Skirt- Thrifted gift from Danny <3

Sunglasses- Juicy Couture (here)

Shoes- Gift from Ang <3

Necklace- Urban Outfitters (similar)

Bracelets- Gift from my aunt <3 and Forever 21(similar)(here)

Rings- Thrifted and family jewelry

<3 Annalise

SPRING THINGS

 Well Bloomers I can honestly say I've been dreaming of spring for well over a week now. Although warm sunshine seems far, it's really around the corner and it's good to start thinking about spring style! I put together a small assortment of items I LOVE and can't wait to wear! Hopefully you all can find some inspiration.

1. Panama hats- I've always been one for hats, and panama hats have me pumped for warm days and messy hair. Pair it with a tunic and jeans, or pretty sun dress/maxi dress for a girly feel. Pictured: Wool Women's Panama Hat by Tilly's

2. Lace (and more lace!)- Being a fan of anything vintage, lace dresses, tunics, and kimonos have me swooning. Take a bohemian lace piece and pair it with something black or leather for an edgier vibe. Pictured: One Golden Age top by Free People

3. Printed Maxi Skirts- Maxi skirts have been a style that lives strong for the warmer months, but this spring I'm excited to take them to a new level. Printed maxis, like this daisy one, are comfortable yet show stopping. pair this with a crop top or bustier and a strappy vintage boot. Not to mention some awesome rings! Pictured: Flower Child M-slit Maxi Skirt by Forever 21

4. Detailed Accessories- This handmade leather pouch is a perfect accessory to carry with you all through the warmer months. A raw, harsh textile against some feminine flare can complete any look. This pouch here I'm crazy about because it was hand sewn in Haiti by Fait La Force. This product is being featured on a website that is most definitely worth taking the time to check out. This girl, Bekah, is doing something really awesome! Pictured: Raw Edge Pouch by A Well Traveled Brand

5. Bustier Tops- These tops never grow old because I love all the different ways to pair them! Whether it's with a maxi skirt, high waisted shorts, skater skirt or high waisted denim, this top becomes a very versatile piece of spring! Pictured: Banded Strapless Top by Sparkle & Fade for Urban Outfitters

6. Floral Dresses- This is a staple to my spring wardrobe, and although I have many floral dresses, I still feel like you can never have enough! How cute are they paired with a kimono or fringe vest? Or you can even leave them plain and simple and they're great! Pictured: Lace-Up Babydoll Tank Dress by Band of Gypsies

7. Oversized Rings- These rings are acceptable every time of year, but these vibrant turquoise stones accent the colors of spring. This can be worn and loved with any outfit! Pictured: This Triple Turquoise Ring is crafted by St. Eve Jewelry

8. Cut-Out Ankle Boots- Sandals will always be a spring and summer favorite, but why not spice up your footwear with something more funky? Cut-out, strappy ankle boots are such an awesome way to change the dynamic of an outfit. They can be worn with long, flowy silhouettes, or something more sculpted and geometric! Pictured: Stillwell Fisherman Ankle Boot by Jeffrey Campbell

9. Fringe Vests- Bringing back the 70's in a fun, bohemian way! This vest is statement piece and can be easily turned too far back in time, so it's nice to spice it up in a modern way. Wear this with a dark lip and some wedged buckle sandals for a current bohemian look. There's so many ways to work this vest, make it true to you! Pictured: Vintage Suede Vest by Tea Stained Lace on Etsy

I hope you all found a bit of inspiration and excitement for spring! It's coming soon, so enjoy putting together some outfit ideas. You'll look killer for that first warm day ;)

<3 Annalise

WARMTH OF WINTER

Before heading to VT this past weekend, I got to experience the promise of Spring (I know it will eventually get here!). With more snow on the way later this week, I was so excited to go outside before the next storm and be comfortable without a jacket, scarf or gloves! I decided to layer one of my favorite sweaters with a dress that I've had for a while now. To top it all off I wore the necklace that Amy's good friend Nicole made for me! She's seriously the sweetest, and I adore this necklace.

Outfit Details:

Sweater and Dress- Urban Outfitters

Boots- Chippewa

Necklace- Made by Nicole! <3

<3 Annalise 

DIY Rustic Lace Ball Jar

It's another big snow day here in CT with snow already up to my knees! I've gotten situated with a warm cup of coffee and my moccasin slippers. I was definitely itching to either paint or craft. I love getting those creative vibes when I'm all nestled inside (keeps me from going stir crazy!). After designing the DIY gift ball jar last week, I felt inspired to do another DIY project, but this time create a jar that can either be a vase or memory jar!

With all this wintry weather I obviously couldn't use fresh flowers. I love dried lavender and keep some wrapped up for crafts or to put in a vase. I thought it'd be perfect for a craft like this. Winter alternatives can include different pine branches, pine cones, red berries, or twigs! As a memory jar, you could fill this with buttons, sea shells, sand, pins/brooches, jewelry, etc.

I added little accents like the vintage buttons from my mom's collection, lace trim, and a cute cardstock tag to give it my personal flare. I love everything rustic and vintage so this is my new favorite vase. 

Places like Michaels offer a great variety of burlap, ribbon, tags, string, and everything else you'll need. Even Ball jars! I'm excited to put this on my windowsill to bring some pretty color into winter. Happy crafting!

<3 Annalise