The Sweltering Sweater

Update and Inquiry

5:44 PM

[[OUTFIT FEATURE: Steve Madden Fur Vest]]

Dear Reader,

I originally started this blog to build a portfolio for after college. The idea was that if I could have a variety of "lookbooks" for potential employers to view then I would have more credibility than the regular graduate.

Instead, I have gained exceedingly more than I imagined when this blog began 1 1/2 years ago.

I have solidified that a major in fashion is the best choice for me and is something I truly enjoy. I have met amazing people along the way, both photographers as well as companies who I have been able to team up with. I have been able to discuss not only what is "on trend" but what the apparel industry can do to improve their treatment of workers and their treatment of the environment. I have watched myself be welcomed into a community of people with shared passions.

I have loved every minute of it.

And although I have a group of very supportive friends and family around me, I have not been able to master the balance of passion and everyday life. It does not seem like there are enough hours in the day to accomplish my responsibilities and have time to focus on the blog.

So my question to you - friends, family and followers - is how do you balance your everyday responsibilities while still being able to focus on your own personal goals? What keeps you focused? What inspires you and restarts that spark? Let me know in the comments section below.

Sincerely, your favorite (exhausted) fashion blogger

All photos for this post were taken by Elle Photography. To see more of her work, check out the link above, her Facebook Page or her Instagram account.

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coat

3 P's for Picking the Perfect Coat

12:16 PM

[[OUTFIT DETAILS: COAT, SCARF (OLD, SIMILAR ONES HERE, HERE, HERE and HERE]]

If you live in a predominately cold climate, you know the most important item of clothing you can own is a good coat.

Although it is not usually recognized as a "cute" or "stylish" piece, I believe that everyone can find a coat that is not only trendy but will also keep you safe from hypothermia.

When picking out a coat, be sure to ask the 3 P's:

Is it PRACTICAL?

Does it have PERSONALITY?

Is it within my PRICE range?

The first question is pretty self explanatory. If you're buying a coat, the intent is to stay warm and dry.

Does it cover your arms, neck and stomach?

Can you raise your arms without your stomach being exposed or bend down without your lower back being exposed to the elements (I promise this isn't my way of being your mom and making you do the modesty test)?

Do the sleeves go to your wrists?

Can you sit down, stand, walk around or move comfortably?

Does it have a hood? Is the hood removable?

How does it fasten? Does it have pockets?

What is the material of the coat/jacket?

The second question is completely based on your preference. As a fashion blogger, I want to give you different options which reflect your distinct style.

This pertains to, but is not limited to:

cut/length

color/pattern

texture

sound (can you handle hearing that swishy noise on a daily basis?)

Other distinct features (the pros/cons of what this coat has as compared to others)

The final P is price. Unless you are a millionaire, you probably already think about this step of the purchasing process. Be aware of what price range is right for you. My advice would be (if you can) spend a little extra on a coat that you'll wear every day.

Some final bits of truth I can give is to pick a coat with a classic color and a timeless cut. You'll be wearing this everyday and possibly for many years, make sure the color is cohesive with the rest of your wardrobe and don't pick "trending" styles for this item that will quickly go out of fashion.

My coat covers me from head to upper thighs, zips at the front and at the pockets, is well insulated, has a removable hood, and is in the color black with a cut that defines my waist.

Where have you found the best coats/jackets that hold up against the 3 P's test?

All photos for this post were taken by Elle Photography. To see more of her work, check out the link above, her Facebook Page or her Instagram account.

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accessories

Rubi Jubi

8:07 PM

[[OUTFIT DETAILS: ALL OUTFITS FROM THIS POST ARE FROM RUBI JUBI! ZELPH'S OUTFIT: JACKET, ALLIE'S OUTFIT: DRESS, DRESS IN RED, MY OUTFIT: TOP, SKIRT]]

For this post, I was very excited to team up with a local boutique called Rubi Jubi (see links above) to show you different looks you can wear this holiday season!

I also had the pleasure of having two of my closest friends join me! Having such different/distinct personal styles really created a fun mix of looks from modern to flirty to classic.

Zelph is the first model. I think this outfit is a perfect representation of who Zelph is.

The black dress, although modest and professional (this would be great to wear to an office party!) has a fun, detailed overlay that differentiates it from other little black dresses. The white coat, although it does not have any loud details, creates a sharp contrast that draws the eye.

Next up is Allie.

This deep dusty blue dress is sure to grab attention. With it's pronounced low back and ruffled v neck front, this dress definitely belongs to the life of the party!

And last but not least, my outfit.

My outfit is casual enough to wear on a night out with friends or dressy enough to wear to a dinner with your family. The striped crop top is youthful and trendy, adding a pattern to the overall look. The midi skirt is a very classic style and would be flattering for all body types. The red shoes and necklace add a pop of color.

Overall, Rubi Jubi has options for everyone! With a diverse collection of outfits, you'll be sure to find something you like!

Oh and I forgot to mention the best part of this blog post! After over a year together, Dan surprised Allie during her individual pictures and asked her to marry him!

Plus, he ventured with me and BOUGHT HER THE DRESS! LIKE WHAT?!?! Two best decisions I think he's ever made :)

I want to give a big shout out to Aurora Grace Photography for capturing all of these beautiful pictures! To see more of her work, you can see the link above, her Facebook or her Instagram.

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