the everlane kick crop jeans

the white + mint edit.

helloooo to all the pastels for spring (trying to wear more color) and all the WHITE! white is my go-to color during the spring/summer months. i’ve had these kick crop jeans for a while and the best thing is the raw hem. no fancy hemming needed, you just CUT (preferably with fabric scissors) to your desired length and BOOM done. these are supposed to have a slight flare at the bottom but because i’m so short 5’2”, a bit of the flared detail was chopped off. nothing that bothers me at all. these jeans are stretchy, they’re 98% cotton, 2% elastane so i sized down to a 25 (usually a 26). also, being over 30, i gravitate towards high waisted jeans. these are a 11” rise so they hit right at my naval and not see through. i LOVE them and found they look best with heels but i’ll still wear them with sandals, mules, and even sneakers. once you cut them, they’re final sale FYI. lastly, we don’t need to get into how much i love @everlane (it all started with their shoes then tees). now i’ve branched out into their denim and also have the authentic stretch high rise skinny jeans with a pair of cheeky jeans on the way, #everlaneaddict! for $68-$78 denim, you can’t go wrong AND it’s from an ethical clothing brand that is transparent about their pricing. also, just FYI, they do happy returns which had me mind-blown.

side ramblings: first and foremost, thank you @maggylondon for featuring me in their #InternationalWomensDay celebration! you can check out the feature here, i had fun writing this piece and it was such an honor/#hellyes moment to be included. i shared it with my mama who loved it, “i’m very proud of you little one.” WOW, it was a fun filled weekend with #SXSW festivities and my nephew’s first birthday! the #SXSW festivities can quickly get overwhelming but Saturday was jam packed a drop into the @goop pop-up which will be here until 4/28, here’s a listing of their events (mostly waitlisted but hopeuflly they will add more), @amandadeer (unrelated but how can i not support Amanda?!), @westelm @west_elm_austin x @renttherunway (haven’t actually used this service yet, but i imagine it would be great for someone who has events coming up or just wants to try something new!), the innovation mansion via @thecurrentglobal with @ctilburymakeup & @michaelstarsinc. also, here’s a listing of bumble events!

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top | Socialite lace trim camisole top in blue cloud but really it’s mint (sized down and wearing size XS, also available in five other colors) — similar but with a square neck line // similar but older style for $20 // similar but scalloped details for $20
cardigan | LOFT duster sweater in empire porcelain (available in petite and wearing size S petite. be careful when you wash this because it’s not very thick material) — similar
denim | Everlane the kick crop jeans in bone (i sized down due to the stretch, usually wear a 26 but ordered a 25 in these. also available in four other colors) — just ordered the cheeky jean!
shoes | Manolo Blahnik BB pump in nude patent — similar by Ann Taylor // similar by Sam Edelman
bag | J.Crew mini bucket bag in natural vachetta (old) — similar by J.Crew Factory and on sale! // similar but snakeskin print // the OG by Mansur Gavriel // similar for $70 // similar by Cuyana
earrings c/o | Kendra Scott didi gold statement earrings in peach pearl from the Spring 2019 collection — similar
necklace | ASOS Orelia coin necklace in gold (love the quality of this necklace) — similar // similar and love the chain detail on this one // similar but layered
sunglasses | Celine marta sunglasses in havana — newer design
bracelet c/o | Kendra Scott mavis gold cuff bracelet in peach pearl from the Spring 2019 collection
rings | Gorjana amara ring set // Amanda Deer c/o CZ solitaire ring // Amanda Deer c/o CZ accents midi ring
watch | Michael Kors darci watch in gold

photo credit: Todd White

the silk scarf & sheath dress

#workwear

is my specialty. when i dress for work i go for classic pieces such as the sheath dress. why? the length is always on point of hitting below the knee (my preferred length), it’s fitted but not too tight like a bandage dress or too loose like the bottom of an A-line or shift dress. i have quite a few ranging from sleeveless, short sleeve, 3/4 sleeve. it’s a TIMELESS piece and therefore my go-to work dress. what i love about sheath dresses is that they make you look super classy but you probably rolled out of bed, didn’t brush your hair (ahem), and put on a dress that makes you look so put together. all the yesss-ess. lastly, sheath dresses can stand on its own but they make the perfect canvas to add a dash of your own flair just like the Lois midi sent to me via @MaggyLondon. simple tips on how to jazz up your sheath dress after the jump. i always gravitate towards a silk scarf because hellooo #classy. everyone always turns heads when i wear these because you don’t see many women wearing them these days. how do you style a sheath dress?

side happenings: Y’ALL it’s already #SXSW!!! i can’t believe it!! i have some festivities i’ll be attending this year but everything always happens so. last. minute. either way, i can’t wait to participate in the frenzy! this past week i was able to attend the The Kindness Campaign // @tkckindness open house and still so amazed by what the organization does! i went to bed with such a great feeling knowing that there are people doing good & making a difference in the world. you’ve heard me talk about them a lot and on social. meeting the founder, @AndraLiemandt, was such a pleasure. just talking to her i can see how passionate she is about what they do and that makes me want to contribute & help more. ideas are brewing so stay tuned! xx

currently on my playlist: girl on fire by Alicia Keys (takin’ it back old school)

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simple ways to add some flair to a sheath dress:

  • belt — a waist belt to be exact that will further accentuate your waistline, love my Gucci one // good dupe

  • brooch — great option because they come in so many shapes/sizes and designs! it can also be a very personalized piece and a great way to show off any hobby you have etc.. i like thrifted ones but here’s a good one from Macy’s and Banana Republic! also found a pretty good CHANEL dupe

  • silk scarf — my go-to! these are versatile because you can also tie them onto handbags or even your wrist as a bracelet. but when wearing them around the neck there are so many ways to tie them (just google or youtube!). here are my current favorite ones from H&M

  • statement necklace — when in doubt, add a little bling! here’s a good one from J.Crew Factory

  • cropped jacket — also serves as a great layering piece for the chilly office environment! been eyeing this one at H&M

  • collared button up — if it’s a sleeveless sheath dress and it’s chilly, wear a button down underneath, work that layering game! i love doing this in winter, love the ones at Banana Republic

dress c/o | Maggy London lois midi in oyster (also available in two other colors, wearing size 2 for reference, my true size but this runs a little large so i would size down) — similar but longer sleeves // similar with ruching // similar but sleeveless // NOT similar but love the statement of a tuxedo dress
scarf  | LOFT summer scarf (ancient) — similar but in a chain or leopard print style (great length to wear draped on both sides 90” x 90”. and yes, i do have them haha) // love this one from Ann Taylor // great B&W option from Ann Taylor (the Ann Taylor sizes are better tied around your neck vs. draped on both sides, 25” x 25”)
shoes | Stuart Weitzman nudistsong in adobe patent (comes in different widths too) — similar by Sam Edelman $100 // similar by Steve Madden $80 // more strappy at Target $30
bag | Celine micro luggage tote in navy — good dupe
earrings | Kendra Scott kirstie stud earrings in ivory pearl
rings | Gorjana amara ring set // Amanda Deer c/o CZ solitaire ring // Amanda Deer c/o CZ accents midi ring  
watch | Michael Kors darci watch in gold   
bracelet | Nordstrom BP love knot cuff in gold (ancient) — similar by Kate Spade // similar by LC $10

a post done in collaboration and sponsored by Maggy London.
dress provided by Maggy London, all opinions are my own.
photo credit: Steven Gunter

the ribbed tube skirt

what up january?!

trying something new here on JDC. while this isn’t my favorite look, i’m glad i tried it out. that is what fashion is all about sometimes! and ya girl is out of content so this is gonna have to do for now lol. i’ve been wanting to try a skirted look with the top layered over the skirt and belted as seen here. the mistake with this outfit is the skirt — it’s a tad too long on my short 5’2” self and i’ve pulled it pretty high up on my torso here too, lol. but the idea is to take a tunic sweater, layer it over your skirt (preferably something a little fitted) and belt it. #soclassy. oh hello gucci belt. y’all know how i feel about logos but this belt is an exception. i use it a ton and mainly as a waist belt to cinch things in and polish any outfit. a belt is such a good accessory!

side ramblings: these have been getting long lately so gonna keep it simple this week! i was able to meet @erincondren this past weekend and i LOVE her spirit and energy, she’s all about gratitude. i feel pretty thankful to be apart of their #ECSQUAD considering how i’m a pretty small influencer #pinchme. lemme tell you, Erin Condren knows how to throw a party! i walked away with a sugar rush thanks to @fancyfluffaustin // @sprinklessupcakes // @maggielouiseconfections and a ton of nerdy goodies including a personalized cover with my logo to their life planner, pens, markers, stickers, a bullet journal!! i’ve talked about wanting to start a #bulletjournal before because i love looking at them but now i’m just gonna do it!

currently on my playlist: sunflower by Post Malone & Swae Lee

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top | LOFT mock neck sweater in black (old) — similar 1 // similar 2 // v-neck style // cowl neck style
skirt | ZARA ribbed tube skirt in gray (sold out) — similar 1 // similar 2
shoes c/o | Everlane boss boots in black pebbled leather (wearing size 5.5 for reference) — similar // similar and also my other fave pointed toe bootie
jacket c/o | Ann Taylor velvet moto jacket in black — similar
bag c/o | Everlane foldover pouch in black — same with a crossbody strap
belt | Gucci leather skinny belt in black -- good knock off for $14
sunglasses | Karen Walker number one sunglasses in black — love these for $55
rings | Gorjana amara ring set // Amanda Deer c/o CZ solitaire ring // Amanda Deer c/o CZ accents midi ring

photo credit: Madeline Harper

the square neck sweater tank

FULLY embracing color with this post! (it's a different one isn't it?!)

lately i've been seeing a lot of square necklines or maybe it's just me noticing this and coming to the party late! but i'm really diggin' the look. it's a good alternative from the round, v, and high necks. so while i was looking for a dress (like i need more), or a jumpsuit (ditto), i came across this really bright yellow tank and said YES! it also didn't help that the back is a criss cross & it was #onsale. so i bought it in black too... naturally. this is what happens when i find something i like. such a good staple for summer despite it being a sweater tank. lastly, this outfit was a good opportunity to bust out with these flower earrings from @cassandracollections, i love her jewelry and the fact that she's a local designer. #supportlocal plus, she is such a doll and i love her sense of style!

side ramblings: FINALLY started to edit my video. yes, i know you should definitely give me your best eye roll right now... but hopefully you can cut me some slack because i'm teaching myself how to use adobe premiere. talk about venturing into the unknown. but yep, i'm crazy. i'm all about learning new things and sometimes teaching yourself and diving right in is the best way to do it! fingers crossed that it will be live next week, hope see you then! xx

currently on my playlist: lost in your light by Dua Lipa ft. Miguel

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top | LOFT criss cross sweater tank in yellow (also avail in black and in plus sizing) -- similar but high neck // similar with a button front detail
denim | ZARA mid rise skinny jeans in white (old) -- similar and on sale // similar but distressed // similar by topshop
bag | J.Crew mini bucket bag in natural vachetta (old) -- similar // similar by Cuyana
shoes | Target Merona marcella low block heel ankle strap sandals in tan (old) -- similar // similar but suede
sunglasses | Celine marta sunglasses in havana -- newer design // similar by Le Specs
necklace | Anthropologie monogram pendant necklace 
earrings c/o | Cassandra Collections flower earrings
rings | Gorjana amara ring set // Amanda Deer c/o CZ solitaire ring // Amanda Deer c/o CZ accents midi ring
bracelet c/o | Kendra Scott tiana pinch bracelet set in gold

rock all the square necklines!,
JD

photo credit: Todd White
 

mustard & leopard print

for the love of mustard. (the color).

because i am actually not a huge mustard fan UNLESS i'm eating a corn dog. somehow it always comes back to food for me. i digress. documenting my first mustard colored item to the JDC closet. it's a REALLY WARM sweater and NOT itchy, so that's a good start. the side tie detail really sells it for me, just a small like cinch on the side makes it a not-so-regular-sweater. and the shoes. i've wanted some slip on mules pretty bad lately, mainly because how easy and comfy they look. i decided i perhaps needed a printed one. 

side ramblings: so the YouTube thing is not as easy as i thought it would be, i know, #shocker. just press a button and record. uh no. so many things to consider, esp lighting, time of day, set-up, and sound. anyways, chugging along at that, you should see the bloopers. not sure if YouTube will be my thing but i'm up for the challenge. also, the @KendraScott spring 2018 collection released last wednesday! i am such a fan of the photography behind the collection!! i was lucky enough to receive some pieces from it and cannot wait to wear them out! pieces that were sent to me revealed via an unboxing on instastories were the: nettie statement necklace, the betty stud earrings, and the tiana pinch bracelets (perfect for small wrists!). other noteables that i am eyeing include: the diana statement earrings in blush pearl (also in gold if you're not into gems), the kitty statement earrings in blush mix (pretty ombre pattern!). 

currently on my playlist: Dreamer by Axwell

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top | LOFT Lou & Grey ribbed tie sweater in golden ember -- similar but longer by Free People and on sale // similar and $20 // similar but round neck
denim | Hudson Jeans nico mid-rise skinny jean in abbey wash (old) -- similar // love these by Citizens of Humanity // similar and $64
bag | Louis Vuitton pouchette metis in damier canvas -- similar by Rebecca Minkoff
shoes | Steve by Steve Madden valente mules in leopard print -- same shoe on sale for $70 // similar in black // similar by Kristin Cavallari 
earrings c/o | Red Dress Boutique statement earrings in ivory (old) -- similar by BaubleBar
necklace c/o | gorjana chloe mini necklace in gold -- choker version
sunglasses | Celine havana sunglasses in tortoise -- similar // similar and on sale for $90
rings | Gorjana amara ring set // Amanda Deer c/o CZ solitaire ring // Amanda Deer c/o CZ accents midi ring

photo credit: Brandon Hill

the suede skirt & sock booties

documenting my first pair of sock booties.

after some wear i have decided that sock booties are the perfect WORK bootie! something a little dressier than your average flat bootie and the chunky/block heel makes it a comfy pick for an 8 to 5 workday. while the shaft on these aren’t as tall as normal sock booties it works for me because i’m 5’2” short and anything taller would make me look shorter (if that makes sense).i love making workwear a little more trendy, so when i saw this suede skirt, i had to snag it for obvious reasons -- the length is so work appropriate. and hey doesn't hurt that it's in a beautiful olive color too! 

also, fitted mock turtlenecks are my staple in the fall/winter because they go with ALL skirts & are SO EASY PEASY. they’re so good i have probably four plain black ones! it's a pretty solid base layering piece and goes underneath sheath dresses too! speaking of work, i've been wearing this pebbled leather satchel as a work bag, it's a little different from my other structured work bags because it's made of slouchy pebbled leather and although the handles don't fall down, there's plenty of space & pockets. i've grown to love the pebbled leather slouchy-ness. 

side ramblings: it feels good to be back. i haven't shot much at all but now that it's getting cooler, IT IS ON. my holiday photos will be up on Monday, be sure to stop by! xx 

currently on my playlist: just give me a reason by P!nk ft. Nate Ruess

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top 5 sales for black friday

no fancy pictures. just SALE info.
HELLO FALL WARDROBE!!!

all the fall feels.

HAPPY THANKSGIVING!!!
navigating black friday sales is pretty.. hmm. what is the word... #OVERWHELMING! so i'm keeping it short & simple (like myself, ha) -- i linked my top 5 sales below for ya inlcuding picks that i have personally bought or are on my wishlist. just skip the rest. i won't steer you wrong. all the deets after the jump. 

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01. ASOS.com // 30% off // code: EPIC 30 (until 11/28/17)

one of my favorite places to shop online. NO TAX. FREE SHIPPING. FREE RETURNS. = winning. also, get 2-day shipping for one year for $19. sizing is a little strange, it's the one that makes you feel like you are a whale. i am normally a 4 in bottoms and a 6 in everything else. when in doubt buy both and return one. PS -- 30% off is a pretty dang good deal. i don't see this much.

02. BananaRepublic.com // 50% off // no code needed (until 11/25/17)

soo many good dresses here. especially for work if you're in the market for any! and work sweaters as well. 

03. LOFT.com // 50% off // code: THANKS (until 11/23/17)

great casual/everyday sweaters right now!! but really, i'm loving the sweater options this year over Ann Taylor, also the skirts!

04. Nordstrom.com // extra 20% off sale items // no code needed (until 11/27/17)

a hodge podge department store items! but great shoes and tons of fall/winter staples -- bags, jackets, and jewelry.

05. ZARA.com // 30% off // no code needed (until ???)

the ZARA black friday sale should start tonight/tomorrow. and although it isn't apart of my affiliate links, it is too good not to share! ZARA is a tad more trendy, but they have some great less trendier pieces for people like me!

happy shopping!, 
JD