austin fashion week

#overdue.

Austin Fashion Week #AFW is an experience i'll never forget. i had an AMAZING time. i am so grateful for the opportunity and feel humbled to even be invited. special thank you to @fashionx.co & @pompublicrelations for these memories! there were a ton of pre and post parties/events leading up and ending fashion week but you may know i was ill and at the tail end of it, so i basically missed EVERYTHING except the runway shows (insert sad face). i've learned that sometimes, even when you feel like crap, you gotta pull yourself together and GO. it was a jam packed three days of non-stop fashion show action fun. (not to mention the post runway activities. ahem. ahem). the evenings started off with a VIP lounge (who am i?!), part one, intermission, and part two. see some of the collections after the jump. my personal favorite was @shopmilesdavis!

the little black dress #LBD below was worn on night three of AFW. i love discovering new brands and this one happens to be sold at bloomingdales.com, which... if you live in TX it is TAX-FREE!!!!! #hellsyes. anyways, this brand, AQUA, has such great pieces not to mention the price point won't break the bank. the strappy top with the tiny cut out waist with the peplum/ruffle hem was SOOOO up my alley. lastly, i have always wanted a pair of @lisilerch earrings. i always see them on others and they always look STUNNING! what made it harder was that the tassel earrings come in all the colors you can think of! i decided on the disco color looked because it looks so unique. it paired so well and added the perfect amount of sparkle for the last night of AFW. and... they racked up dozens of compliments that night. a confirmation that i made the right color choice!

night 1 & 2 outfits coming soon!

side happenings: spent the last few days in Dallas, soaking up the city and doing what i do best = eating & shopping. oh and while i was up there the BEST THING HAPPENED! @bananarepublic posted me on their instagram! like... WHAT?! thank you to everyone who texted and congratulated me on this. i am still pinching myself!! i had to hold back tears of joy because i was so overcome with happiness. it has been such a journey and every step of the way has been about pushing my boundaries and comfort zone. no matter where this leads me to, i hope that all these moments will always have the same magnitude of meaning.  #blessed.

currently on my playlist: it ain't me by Kygo & Selena Gomez

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these Lisi Lerch tassel earrings went PERFECTLY with this #LBD!

such a sucker for a peplum ANYTHING!

i still can't believe i forgot all my RINGS for this entire shoot!

dress | AQUA flounce hem dress in black (sold out, may go back in stock?1, size up, wearing a medium) -- similar 1 // similar 2 // similar 3
bag | Clare V. basketweave fold over clutch in black leather (old) -- similar and $25 // leo print calf hair $45
shoes | Madden Girl bella block heel sandal in black -- similar from Target $30 // similar from Target with a shorter heel $28
sunglasses | Celine caty sunglasses in black -- similar
earrings c/o | Lisi Lerch tassel earrings in disco (avail in almost every color you can think of! and a post and clip-on option as well!) -- similar 1 // similar 2
bracelet | Vita Fede mini titan crystal bracelet in gold -- similar
rings | Gorjana mini stackable ring set

rock the peplum hem anything,
JD

photo credit: Brandon Hill

Austin Fashion Week 2017: May 18, 2017 - May 20, 2017

runway & capsule collection photo credit: @cbarronjr
red carpet photo credit: @candiceghaiphotography

my ABSOLUTE FAVORITE runway: @shopmilesdavis

capsule collection: @themansionrose

runway: @nomzeedesigns3221

runway: @leemerrittswim

capsule collection: @nina_means

#BOSSES: @daniaustin // @courtney_shields // @jessi_afshin

NIGHT 1: hair by @ravenrowsalon by @tiffanydyan // @jesskatt123

NIGHT 1: @heykailymae // @simplyyvan // @theautumngirl_ // @jesskatt123

NIGHT 2: @stylebeacon // sylebeacon's friend // @byhilaryrose // @jesskatt123 // @theautumngirl_

NIGHT 3: @jesskatt123 // stylebeacon's friend // @fixedtothrill // @heykailymae // @byhilaryrose // @stylebeacon 

the pencil skirt & cape blazer

finally some cape weather!

using existing clothes in my closet, i wanted to create an after hours look using a staple work item -- the pencil skirt. every lady has one or tons in her closet (hey, gotta account for all colors and seasons). i chose a crop top (of course) as a base and layered with a cape blazer aka: #notyouraverageblazer. i love all things cape, the cape blazer is no exception, while this one is old and does not have a collar, i have linked several options below. a collared black one is looking good right about now! blazers and capes are great staple pieces to have in any wardrobe as a final layering piece to polish any outfit. 

side note: JAM PACKED weekend y'all! but i ain't complaining. have y'all ever tried hand washing a SUV? oh nelly, that is #hardwork #elbowgrease. hung out with some Austin blogger babes this weekend and had a blast. check out their instagram feeds for some affordable style inspo: @stylebeacon // @byhilaryrose // @heykailymae // @kaleymargaret // @its.me.haylee. i always feel so blessed to be surrounded by so much talent but more importantly have more girlfriends (much needed in my life!)! oh, and saw one of my favorite artists -- MAT KEARNEY. gosh, i can't begin to tell you how much i love his music. there were really tough times in my life where his songs always speak to me. they have so much meaning and depth. i linked one of them below. "...i don't understand this windy road, nothing worth anything ever goes down easy."

currently on my playlist: on and on by Mat Kearney

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top | Forever 21 twisted front crop top in black (old) -- similar w curved hem // similar but sleeveless // similar w criss cross detail // similar w long sleeves 
blazer | Shein cape blazer in white (old) --similar // similar but collared and avail in three colors! // similar // similar in grey
skirt | Banana Republic pencil skirt in black (old) -- similar // similar w assymetrical hem // similar w mesh detail // similar
shoes | BCBG Generation darron patent pump in fuschia (old) -- similar w shorter heel
bag | Clare V. basketweave fold over clutch in black leather (old) -- similar // similar // similar w leo calf hair by Sole Society // popular Clare V. leo calf hair
sunglasses | Karen Walker flowerpatch cat eye sunglasses via www.ditto.com (use code "jannadoanxoxo" to receive one month of designer sunglasses rental for free!) -- similar but the newer style
earrings | Chloe + Isabel portica post drop earrings -- not similar but my fave C+I convertible studs!
rings | Gorjana candice CZ ring in gold / Etsy stacking & midi rings
bracelet c/o | The Peach Box metallic t-bar bangle in gold (use code "jannadoan" to receive 15% off your purchase, good until 10/31)
watch c/o | Daniel Wellington classic black cornwall 40mm watch (this is the NEW DW watch with a black face with ROSE GOLD details, a great statement piece for fall. use code "DOAN" for 15% off your purchase)
lips | MAC amplified creme lipstick in brick-o-la
nails | Smith & Cult nail polish in dark like me with gold nailart (first timer and loved it!)

rock the cape blazer,
JD

the LBD & bomber jacket

bomber jackets are da bomb.

SO EXCITED!!! because i teamed up with one of my blogger babes, Vanessa // @downtownmaven to bring you a post on how we styled our bomber jackets! but first, i have a brag a little about Vanessa. in a few words i would describe her as: a TREND-SETTER, a world-class-traveler; an eye for design, bold, creative, and absolutely beautiful. here's a few quick questions answered by Vanessa:

1. Can you tell our readers about yourself and your blog?

Hi! I’m Vanessa and I’m a South Florida Blogger. I’ve been a city girl most of my life residing in downtown Boston prior to living in downtown Ft. Lauderdale before moving to Parkand, FL, just two weeks ago! I’ve been blogging for a little less than a year and still getting to know the ropes. I consider myself the creative type and my blog is just another outlet for me to creatively express myself. Fashion is one of my first and favorite passions in life, which is why I started a fashion blog. I also love to travel, event design (my 9-5) and just became a first time home owner. Stay tuned as more travel and interior design are soon to join fashion on DTM!  Personally I love to share products that are new and/or that I’m passionate about in hopes to inspire or educate others with the same interests. I hope my blog accomplishes this. I believe life is an ever growing journey and my style and blog will undergo many changes as I go through them.

2. How would you describe your personal style and is there a person who is a fashion inspiration to you?

My style is pretty versatile. I tend to dress for the occasion. If I had to narrow it down, I guess I would describe my style as edgy street style with a twist of glam. I’m never afraid to try new looks but feeling comfortable in what I’m wearing is key for me. I find inspiration through many people, places and things, so that too is hard to narrow down. I highly respect Olivia Palermo’s style. Some of my favorite bloggers are Arielle - @somethingnavy, Danielle - @weworewhat, Blaire - @blaireadiebee and Wendy @wendyslookbook

3. What are some of your favorite things to wear?

It’s all about the shoes for me. The right shoe can make any outfit pop. Recently, I have this obsession with culottes as well. 

4. What do you like to do on your spare time?

In short, shop. My husband-to-be jokes that all my addictions have one thing in common and that is they involve shopping. Whether I’m looking for a new couch, redoing my bathroom or planning our next vacation, I’m constantly looking for ways to spend my hard earned money! Some other loves include audio books, as I spend a lot of time on the road, painting and hosting dinner parties. I’m also a bit of a cinema nerd.

5. What is the number one thing you’ve learned from blogging?

I know it says one, but I have to give you two things… As cliché as it sounds, I think I’ve learned to stay true to my style. I bought something I kept seeing on other blogs to be apart of the trend and I was so uncomfortable. I hate to waste and that was such a poor decision on my part. Memo to me: What the cool kids are wearing doesn’t make you cool! Secondly, blogging is hard work! It takes a lot of time and thought behind it. Kudos to all the bloggers out there!

bomber jackets are a HUGE trend this spring. so hop on the bandwagon with us please! i will say, when Vanessa suggested we do bomber jackets i was like hmmm... why not since i had just purchased one (to try!). #starsalign. while i was boring and choose a grey bomber (ok, give me some credit, it is SATIN!), Vanessa choose this #likewhoa floral one! i paired mine with a black cut out fit and flare dress, brooch, and studded heels. Vanessa styled hers with a jumpsuit (she rocks everything!), the floral bomber just pops on her!! get the details of her full outfit on @downtownmaven! the bomber jacket is just another great alternative to have to the army green utility jacket, the denim jacket, this one just has a little more edge/street style to it. i can also see it going well with skinny jeans and skirts. 

a little about this dress -- you can never have too many ______ (fill in the blank) today, i'll go with "#LBD." this one made its way into my closet for the following reasons: 1) color: black, 2) cut-out detail, 3) midi length, 4) pleated bottom, 5) fit and flare; and 6) top crossover detail at the top, i would say the only thing missing was.. pockets! the material on the dress is hefty; in a good way. i also loved the amount of flare on it, and… as you can see, it is completely twirl-worthy which always makes for fun times/shots! so in case you were wondering what i do on my weekends, i wear LBD and twirl in front of the courthouse with security cameras! haha, #noshame.

currently on my playlist: save room by John Legend

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#practicemakesperfect (after take 400. haha.)

absolutely adore the floral detail on Vanessa's bomber jacket! 

dress | Chicwish sweeter than a little black dress 
jacket | ASOS New Look sateen bomber in grey / similar and longer in nude / similar in jersey / similar from Topshop / similar with a cable texture (see it on my girl Jenna @bostonchicparty)
shoes | Sole Society tiia sandal studded t-strap heel in black adobe patent -- similar and on sale / similar and in tons of colors / flat style / similar with less studs
bag | Clare Vivier foldover basketweave clutch in black -- similar
brooch | Vintage find -- similar in silver (see it styled here) / similar
earrings | Kendra Scott tessa studs in iridescent druzy
sunglasses | ASOS Toyshades ida cat eye sunglasses (a good Celine dupe and on sale!) -- similar
watch | Michael Kors darci watch in gold -- check out this one with a MINT face!
bracelet | BaubleBar pearl taylor cuff 
nails | CHANEL le vernis nail color in tapage (old limited edition) -- similar in gitane
lips | Tom Ford lip color in cherry lush 

rock the bomber jacket because you da domb,
JD

the off shoulder sweater wrap

something is off about this off shoulder! haha.  

this is probably the most unique piece in my wardrobe. when i saw @ruthieridley wear this top, i was intrigued, so in my cart it went (...with a few other items...) when it arrived i spent a good 10 minutes trying to figure out how to wear it. thank goodness the website had pictures on how to put it on! it's like an off shoulder wrap/crop sweater/shawl hybrid etc.. you could probably wrap it around as a scarf even. i have nothing like it, it's a very sexy yet classy piece, but oh man, it's was a little impractical to wear. LOL. but honestly, i think it's because i didn't wear it with something high-waisted. it's also a one size fits all (which, come on... how does that work?!) so i spent a lot of time adjusting it. either way i liked the unique-ness of this piece to buy it in black as well. here are some things about wearing this top that i had to document based on certain situations i found myself in. basically, i spent a good deal of the day laughing at myself:

  • wear a bandeau underneath. 
  • arms are either at your waist or inside pockets. they will never be above because you will be flashing your side to everyone. 
  • driving could be an issue, so drive with an underhand grip. forget u-turns. LOL. ok fine, minor exaggeration. 
  • no high five-ing anybody! unless you want to flash them. apparently, i am a high fiver. 
  • forget hair fixing. (in public at least).

with that said, i highly i suggest pairing this with a high-waisted skirt or pant. (i will try this with the black one for another look). that did not happen here (hence, some midriff, sorry!). it was a cold day so i opted for some... wide leg DRESS PANTS!! add in chic brooch (finally the opportunity to wear this beauty!! i have a thing for brooches!) and you got yourself a classy outfit you can't really do much in. LOL. nonetheless, this was a fun shoot for the books!

oh, might i add; i did not do my own hair. (obviously). that's why blow outs are perfect for gals like me who are #hairchallenged. the best thing about blow outs is that you ain't got to wash your hair for a few days! yea yea! #hellothirtys

currently on my playlist: Ain't nobody (loves me better) by Felix Jaehn

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top | SheIn off shoulder knit sweater in grey (also comes in black)
pants | LOFT tie waist trousers in black (excellent material, one of my fave place for dress pants)
shoes | Jimmy Choo abel pump in black patent -- similar by Ivanka Trump
bag | clare vivier basketweave foldover clutch in black -- similar / awesome studded one!
earrings | ASOS big faux pearl and stone swing earrings (old) -- similar / similar in marble!
brooch | BaubleBar crystal donati brooch -- similar / similar with a pearl / gold swan!
rings | Kendra Scott daisy ring in slate / BaubleBar tri bar ring (sold out) -- avail in midi / BaubleBar ice chevron midi ring (on sale!) / BaubleBar diana midi ring / BaubleBar arrow wrap ring (on sale!) / Etsy stacking & midi rings
lips | MAC amplifed creme lipstick in brick-o-la
nails | essie nail polish in frock 'n roll (fall 2015 collection, it's a unique color and only ONE coat is needed!) 

what are some unique pieces you own?
JD

the striped midi skirt & basketweave clutch

a little striped obsessed at the moment. 

this Topshop striped midi skirt is everythanggg y'all! when it came in, i was in love. (there is such thing as love at first sight). i like all midi skirts, but this one was perfect due to the thick stripes, pleats, and... POCKETS. while it is a little on the expensive side, it looks just like the Tibi escalante striped skirt ($690 USD)!! #purchasejustified. i love the way it flares out perfectly and the material is excellent quality with a bit of texture to it. this skirt is so beautiful, all it needed was a simple dressy cami. 

i chose to add more texture to this outfit by pairing it with my first Clare Vivier clutch in basketweave leather. this clutch came out back in 2014 and i was late on snagging one. in the 2014 design, the basketweave was woven in a straight fashion, in the latest (as seen in this post), it is in a diagonal fashion and in my honest opinion, it looks sooo much better. i'm glad i missed out on the first release. any bag or clutch that is woven in a basketweave fashion is super classy, just think Bottega Veneta.

PS--this week i was featured in the @MariaBonitaMexico online magazine! what?!? what?! check it out! life is crazy and i'm truly blessed to be among some great talent. #sogratefulbeyondwords

y'all have an awesome weekend now! i'm off to NYC!! (to eat!). 

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top | H&M woven camisole top in black (on sale for $20!) / similar from Topshop
skirt | Topshop striped midi skirt / Nordstrom Topshop striped midi skirt / similar from LuLu's
shoes | LuLu's elsi single strap heels in black suede / similar by Steve Madden
bag | Clare V. basketweave foldover clutch in black leather / similar from SoleSociety
sunglasses | Prada round oversized sunglasses in black
earrings | ASOS big faux pearl and stone swing earrings (old) / similar in silver metal
necklace | BaubleBar ice scallop pendant
bracelet | BaubleBar athena grid cuff
rings | BaubleBar tri bar ring (sold out) similar / BaubleBar gemini pearl ring / etsy stacking & midi rings
lips | MAC lipstick in brick-o-la
nails | Sephora formula X in thrilling (can't get enough of this color!)

his & her gift guide part two

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01 | Thorocraft the hutchinson kicks in mahogany -- a great pair of casual shoes for the guys. quite a few notches up from Converse. ! 
02 | Ray Ban the original wayfarer sunglasses in black -- these are some great shades on all guys, regardless of face shape. and actually... these are uni-sex sunglasses, so get one for yourself too! matchy, matchy. (insert emoji with the sunglasses).
03 | Bespoke Post subscription box -- the subscription box = the gift that keeps giving. and... there is a subscription box for everyone. ...even dogs. after doing extensive research on boxes for men, this is the one that caught my eye. what's great about this subscription (besides the handpicked swanky goods) is that you are able to preview the items and if you're not feeling it, you can skip that box. each box is, "a collection of men's lifestyle gear from up-and-coming brands, spanning all areas of your day-to-day." 
04 | Clare Vivier foldover clutch in leopard hair -- leopard print love. a guaranteed hit! it is selling out on a couple sites already. i have been lusting over one for years. 
05 | BaubleBar play by ear gift set -- this is a set of earrings that you can mix and match to wear 100 ways! GENIUS. 
06 | French Box subscription -- get five french products delivered to your doorstep each month! products range from fashion, cosmetics, gourmet and other goodies. i wanted to pick Europe in a Box, however they only ship to Australia it seems.