how to wear culottes

February 27, 2017

culottes: (noun) how to pronounce it here: women's knee-length trousers, cut with very full legs to resemble a skirt.

i've been saying this word wrong for a while, so now that i have it down, let's post about it and share how to wear these thangs! it's either a love or hate. i happen to love them! through trial and error, here are my four things i look out for when picking culottes:

go for the high waisted fit, it is just way more flattering and not to mention classy.
flowy material vs. cotton. if it looks like a skirt, even better. that's the point -- for them to look like a skirt but they are actually wide leg cropped pants. how's that for mind games?!
length: you also don't want to go with a pair that is too long or too short, you're going to want them to hit mid shin.
lastly, since they are basically cropped pants give it an extra feminine touch with a sexy pair of heels or pumps!

but... be adventurous -- try a monochrome look, play with prints & textures, try dressing them down in a street-style kind of way!

top style tips: spring/summer: pair with a dressy cami, sleeveless crop top, lace top, off the shoulder, lightweight silk blouse. winter/fall: long sleeve crop top, turtleneck, layer a cami with a tissue turtleneck, chunky/off the shoulder sweater. still not sure how to wear em? go with a culotte jumpsuit -- cold shoulder and a long sleeve lace one (perfect one-piece to take the headache away of how to style culottes).

i have so many exciting things happening right now that i cannot wait to share with you. i feel humbled where this blogging journey has taken me! stay tuned and as always, thank you for stopping by! xoxo.

currently on my playlist: i feel it coming by The Weeknd & Daft Punk

top | ZARA off the shoulder sweater in black (avail in four colors) -- similar // similar with lace trim // similar and a convertible cowl neck // similar but striped
pants | Ann Taylor high waisted culottes in camel (sold out) -- similar with a tie waist // really fun striped ones!
shoes | LuLu's elsi single strap heels in black suede -- similar // similar with a stacked heel at Target
sunglasses | Le Specs air heart 51mm sunglasses in black & gold (love the fit of this brand!)
bag | Louis Vuitton pouchette metis in damier canvas (borrowed from mama bear)
watch c/o | Klasse14 42mm volare rose gold watch with mesh band (use code "jannadoan" for 12% off)
earrings | BaubleBar pinata tassel drops in ROSE GOLD! -- similar but mini version // similar from the Sugarfix line at Target
rings | Gorjana c/o shimmer stacking ring set // Gorjana amara ring set // Gorjana mini stackable ring set // Etsy stacking & midi rings // Gorjana candice CZ ring // BaubleBar ice chevron midi ring (sold out) -- similar
lips | MAC amplified creme lipstick in brick-o-la
nails | Smith & Cult polish in kundalini hustle

rock the culottes,
JD

an austin blogger galentine's day

February 6, 2017

february. the month of L<3VE.

excited to share this galentine's photoshoot with y'all! if you're looking for some valentine's day inspo, look no further. these Austin bloggers have you covered from head to toe (that's how we ROLL). i love how each gal brings something different to the table in terms of personality and fashion. i admire all these ladies and blessed to call them my friends. though i've only known them a few months, i have a feeling it is just the beginning of some great and much needed friendships in my life. if you told me two years ago that i would get to shoot something like this with some fabulous bloggers, i would have totally laughed. chyeaaaa rightttt.. ! this brings me to one of Michelle's // @stylebeacon quote i read on her page, "Be patient. You never know what’s on the horizon and life can surprise you in many beautiful ways. #beaconisms"

for this i choose to go non-traditional with a black mesh wide leg jumpsuit. i can't stress how much a jumpsuit always wins. the only one-piece power suit you need to feel super confident. the mesh detail adds a little something and i added some pops of red lips, nails and some statement hoops!

lastly, single or taken this valentine's day -- remember that it's all about that #selflove.
one of my blogger friends Amber // @everyonceinastyle wrote this post on how to be single during the holidays but it really applies everyday. all my single ladies must check it out!

currently on my playlist: i hope you dance by Lee Ann Womack

the beatles. blogger style. i say a pretty good shot despite tripping and being flashed at by a stranger. (true story).

red & black. @jesskatt123 // @stylebeacon // JD // @daniaustin // @theautumngirl_

lavender & pink. @its.me.haylee // @kaleymargaret // @byhilaryrose

Hilary // byhilaryrose.com

Hilary is blogger i followed way back in the day. at an event last year, i went up to say hi to her (i'm shy btw). she recognized me and introduced me to all her blogger friends; the rest is history! #thankfulforher. i am a fan of her affordable style (i want everything in her closet) and her happy go lucky personality which is totally infectious! i may be buying that hot pink dress soon…!

pink dress | ASOS cold shoulder with ruffle in pink
lilac dress | Elizabeth and James leonie dress from Rent the Runway
necklace | Kendra Scott isabella choker necklace in ivory zellige
clutch | Diane von Furstenberg evil eye miniaudiere from Rent the Runway
shoes | Steve Madden carrson sandal in sand suede

Haylee // itsmehaylee.com

Haylee is the queen of makeup & hair, and… not to mention, she knows how to work the camera (please teach me your ways Haylee!!). i love how she took a mauve bodycon dress and layered it with a lace cami! and that lip color… i know i can't rock that!

Dani // thedaniaustin.com

Dani is the cutest thing! you should see her instastories! i love how she went with a burgundy one shoulder dress with pink lace up heels and dressed it up with a classy statement clutch. i know, aren't those earrings so pretty on her? i might have bought some. gosh, these blogger friends..!

dress | Sincerely Jules everly one shoulder cotton dress in burgundy
earrings | BaubleBar crispin drops in light pink
shoes | Steve Madden christey wrap around ankle tie sandal in light pink
clutch | YSL monogram quilted envelope clutch in black
watch | Michele deco diamond dial two tone watch

Michelle // stylebeacon.com

Michelle is the business-boss lady of the bunch and such an easy person to talk to. i feel like I can talk to her about anything. Michelle's dress is a dream. she is rocking the off the shoulder with a drop peplum-ish hem. plus, she is perfect in each frame. #iwishiwas.

dress | For Love & Lemons clemence off shoulder dress in tiramisu
shoes | Elaine Turner juliet in black suede
earrings | Kendra Scott danielle filigree
clutch | Elaine Turner hazel quilted foldover clutch in black

Kaley // myclosetlife.com

there is a never a dull moment with Kaley. Kaley makes me laugh until it hurts and i love her for that! forget needing to work out them abs when you're hanging out with her! #itslikeaworkout. she adds life to each party and knows no stranger. Kaley adds her own style to this ballerina dress with a silk scarf and some black lace ups!

dress | free people ballet punk set
scarf | Vintage find in Lebanon! -- similar 1 // similar 2

Meg // theautumngirl.com

this is Meg's first pleated skirt. #notthelast. i cannot tell you how happy that makes me! i love how she went with a mini and paired it with a sexy white blouse (i may need this too!). she coordinated this whole shoot, thanks so much girl!

Jess // uptownfashionbyjess.com

Jess is a stylist so she always keeps up with the latest! i am so thankful she didn't leave me in the dark and wore black with me #nopunintended. but her maxi is so valentine appropriate because of the roses and the movement on that dress is just magical!

dress | Lovers & Friends golden ray maxi in rose print
earrings | Kendra Scott alex earrings in black
shoes | similar

jumpsuit | BCBG Generation mesh panel jumpsuit in black -- similar with cut outs // similar and avail in red // similar with a cold shoulder // similar with lace long sleeves
earrings | BaubleBar dianne hoops
bag | Chanel boy wallet on chain in red caviar leather -- similar
shoes | Michael Kors carla sandal in black (old) -- similar 1 // similar 2
bracelet c/o | The PeachBox roman empress bangle in gold
rings | Gorjana c/o shimmer stacking ring set // Gorjana amara ring set // Gorjana mini stackable ring set // Etsy stacking & midi rings // Gorjana candice CZ ring // BaubleBar ice chevron midi ring (sold out) -- similar
lips | Christian Louboutin velvet matte lip color in rouge 001M -- similar in a matte liquid
nails | Smith & Cult polish in kundalini hustle

happy GALENTINES DAY!,
JD

photo credit: Brandon Hill
venue: Fall Creek Vineyards in Driftwood
balloons c/o: The Balloon Bar

the tweed skirt & over the knee boots

November 21, 2016

#fortheloveoftweed

i am such a fan of tweed. the texture, softness, and classy factor it brings to any wardrobe. the miniskirt is not my go-to but they are good to have on hand for an outfit with over the knee (OTK) boots! glad i snatched this one up in a heartbeat, i love the color, quality of the tweed and the front pockets that really stand out without being over the top. sticking to the classy-ness of tweed i opted for a roll neck long sleeve top and decided to layer more with my sleeveless trench coach complete with.... the ultimate classy accessories: brooch, pearl earrings, and a Chanel bag. i LOVE how it turned out!

i also attended the Texas Conference for Women last week. i look forward to it every year, great speakers and sessions! here are my short and sweet take-aways:

show up. suit up. speak up.
fear is the doorway to opportunity.
you know you're on the right track when everything seem
courage comes from taking baby steps.
beauty is the energy we put into the world.
call your shots.
be intentional.
it ain't bragging if you can back it up.
how you face disappointment is far more important than how you face winning.
there is no place in your life that you cannot lift from.
confidence is believing in what you deserve.
fear is not an option.
make sure you are your own consistent cheerleader.

i cannot believe we are at the last two months of the year! MY FAVE! hoping y'all have a wonderful thanksgiving -- eat lots, enjoy time with your loved ones, unplug, and be present! #qualitytimeisthebesttime

side happenings: sorry been MIA the past two weeks! they have been crazy fun with events, i was running from one thing to the next, it was so awesome! i'm trying to capture them in instastories #newbie (@jannadoan). from new restaurant previews -- Flower Child and Culinary Drop Out to fashion/crafty shows -- Flea Style in Dallas (my friend described it as Etsy in real life!) to the Nordstrom whowhatwear fall trunk show and heir fall beauty show to the Texas Conference from Women to other minglings including the Austin Blogger Mixer, PopSugar x Shop Style Collective (i'll just leave out the part where the hotel valet lost my car keys for a good hour....!), Kelly Wynne, and LUSH. i was thrilled to meet these beautiful and inspiring boss babes in person: @bagsnob // @hillarykerr // @brandypham // @shopkellywynne. also, appeared on the Camille Styles website, pictures from the Diptyque event last month! whoo hoo!

currently on my playlist: better in time by Leona Lewis (totally throwin' it back)

the-tweed-skirt-over-the-knee-boots-jannadoan.com

top | ASOS New Look ruche roll neck in black (i've worn this way too many times! it goes so well w all skirts for fall!) -- similar but ribbed // similar but cold shoulder
duster | Shein sleeveless asymmetric trench coat in black (old) -- similar // similar but blazer style // similar with sleeves //
skirt | ASOS Lost Ink tweed mini skirt with front pockets in gray (goes in and out of stock so always check back!) -- similar // similar with some fringe
bag | CHANEL 2.55 classic double flap bag in black lambskin -- similar (avail in six colors) // similar // similar
shoes | Unisa saranaa over the knee boot in black suede (avail in five colors!) -- similar from Target // similar with stiletto heel // similar but flat (just bought these and love them)
sunglasses | Karen Walker number one sunglasses in black (rent them via ditto.com and use code "JANNADOANXOXO" to receive your first month for free on a designer sunglasses rental subscription!) -- similar
brooch | BaubleBar crystal donati brooch (old) -- similar but a bow // similar
earrings | Baublebar 360 pearl studs (old) -- similar // similar with pave // similar
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)
rings | BaubleBar ice chevron midi ring (sold out) -- similar // Gorjana candice CZ ring // Etsy stacking & midi rings
lips | MAC amplified creme lipstick in brick-o-la
nails | Smith & Cult polish in dark like me

rock the tweed,
JD

the pencil skirt & cape blazer

October 24, 2016

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

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

day to night in a pleated hem top

March 21, 2016

this pleated hem top is one of my favorite recent purchases for a few reasons -- 1) LOOSE!, 2) pleated peplum-ish hem, 3) white-ish, and 4) not too low cut. darn, i should've tried to twirl in it. #missedopportunity haha. here are FIVE simple ways on how i transitioned this outfit from day to night, easy peasy!

take off that blazer -- show some skin, yea yea!
tote/handbag to a snazzy clutch -- i choose this spring/summery beaded clutch, but any clutch works.
flats to heels -- it's all about comfy flats during the day, these do not disappoint. heels elevate (#literally) any look and these MB are my favorite nude heels. so worth the investment.
watch to statement cuff -- love this minimal understated design on this cuff. OR change out your necklace/earrings to a statement piece, whatever works for your outfit!
lip balm to lipstick -- i went with my favorite 'my lips but better' lipstick but a bold lip is always a great choice for a night out, #bebold!

also, here i am wearing my ENTIRE Rocksbox that arrived! for those who don't know what Rocksbox is, it is a jewelry subscription box that is curated by your own stylist based on a initial survey you take when signing up. the cool thing is you can leave feedback about each box so it becomes even more tailored to your taste! you also get to purchase the pieces you want to keep at a discount... ok, confession. i ended up buying the turquoise necklace and the ring... lol. use code "jannadoanxoxo" to receive one month free!

currently on my playlist: thinking out loud x i know i'm not the only one mash-up by Sam Tsui & Casey Breves (talk about talent)

day to night in a pleated hem top -- jannadoan.com

top | Banana Republic pleated hem layered tank in cocoon (also available in light blue and navy)
blazer | H&M fitted jacket in powder pink
denim | Hudson nico mid-rise skinny jeans in abbey wash -- similar
shoes | Sam Edelman bev flats in blush & black leather (such a steal and a great CHANEL dupe, and so comfy -- the best part is i will never have to woryy about scuffing them!) / Manolo Blahnik BB pump in nude patent -- similar
bags | Louis Vuitton MM neverfull tote in monogram canvas / Charming Charlie daniella beaded satin clutch (also has a chain to wear as a crossbody; can't find it online but purchased it recently in-store) -- similar
earrings | BaubleBar ear jackets (old) -- similar
necklaces | BaubleBar acrylic block monogram necklace in tortoise shell / House of Harlow 1960 ascension pendant necklace in turquoise via Rocksbox (use code "jannadoanxoxo" to get one month free)
bracelet | SLATE barred cuff in gold via Rocksbox (use code "jannadoanxoxo" to get one month free)
rings | Gorjana candice shimmer ring in gold via Rocksbox (use code "jannadoanxoxo" to get one month free) / BaubleBar tri bar ring (sold out) / BaubleBar diana midi ring / BaubleBar ice chevron midi ring / Etsy stacking & midi rings
sunglasses | ASOS Toyshades ida cat eye sunglasses (a good Celine dupe)
lips | Dior lip reviver lip glow in sheer pink coral / MAC amplified creme lipstick in brick-o-la
nails | Smith & Cult nail polish in doe my dear

rock that day to night transition,
JD