DIY Basic Envelope Clutch

This envelope clutch project was entirely an experiment for me.  I was inspired to try my hand at making my own clutch because of the [sometimes] high prices of cute ones on the market.  And it was actually really easy to make!  The pattern is extremely versatile as well – this clutch can be made in any fabric type or color you want, and embellished with anything you want.  I would recommend a thicker fabric with structure for this project (like faux leather or vinyl) because I made mine with some solid cotton fabric that I had around my house, and when completed, the bag is definitely too flimsy to be used on a daily basis.  So let’s get started!

You will need:

• Approximately 1 yard of the fabric of your choice
• Sewing machine, needle, and matching thread
• Ruler, pencil, and scissors
• 1 button
• Rhinestones, beads, glitter, paint, etc. for embellishing your bag

Step 1: Begin by laying your fabric out on a flat surface.  Using the ruler and the pencil, trace a rectangle of the size you want your bag to be, plus 1″.  I drew my rectangle 10″ wide x 7″ high.  Extend the rectangle by drawing an additional rectangle off the top of the original rectangle (your rectangle should now be 10″ wide x 8″ high) – this will be the area where the flap of your clutch folds over.  Continue extending the height of your rectangle upward, this time by about half the height of your original height (about 3″), leaving the top open.  Draw diagonal lines toward the center where your rectangle is open (this will be the triangle-shaped flap of the clutch).  When complete, your shape should be similar to a house.  Using the scissors, cut out 2 of these shapes.  Next, trace and cut out a rectangle that is 1 inch larger than the base of your clutch (I cut out a rectangle that was 11″ x 8″).

Step 2: Align the 2 triangular pieces right-side together and sew all the way around the edges of them, leaving approximately 1″ open at the end before connecting the seam.  Use the 1″ opening to turn the fabric right-side out.  Iron flat.

Step 3: Tuck the loose ends inside and use the needle and matching thread to sew closed the 1″ opening.  Be sure to use small stitches so it is as invisible as possible when you’re done.

Step 4: On the rectangular piece of fabric, fold over one of the 11″ edges about an inch and pin into place.  Sew down this seam to create a clean edge for the opening of your clutch.

Step 5: Pin the rectangular piece of fabric to the base of  your clutch, as shown in the picture above.  Be sure to pin the fabric with the raw edge of the seam you sewed in Step 4 facing up.

Step 6: Sew along the pinned edges of the fabric, making sure to backstitch at the beginning and at the end.  Trim away any excess fabric, and turn the bag right-side out.

Step 7: Cut a small slit, large enough for your button, in the fabric at the triangle flap of the clutch.  Use the needle and thread to sew around the inside of the slit to keep the fabric from fraying with use.  If you chose fabric that doesn’t fray, you can skip this step!

Step 8: Measure where your button should go on the base of the bag so that it lines up with the button hole on the flap.  Sew your button in the appropriate place using the needle and thread.

Step 9: Add embellishments…and as many as you want!  I chose to keep this particular bag pretty simple, by gluing three rhinestones on the button.  But feel free to get creative!  This is what will make your bag unique to anything else that’s out there.

What ideas do you have for making and embellishing bags like this one?  Share your creativity in the comments below!

Collared Shirt DIY

When thrift store shopping, garage sale-ing, or even rummaging through old things in someone’s closet, there are some items that you come across that are just plain ugly.  Normally, you might be tempted to simply throw them away, but the DIY-er in you should tempt and challenge you to do something else with these items.  Using your awesome taste in fashion, your sewing and crafting skills, and a little imagination, you can easily turn almost any awful item of clothing into something wearable and cute!

For this post, I used a short-sleeve collared shirt in a stiff, almost chambray-like material that was about 4 sizes too big for me to create a kind of flowy strapless button-down top with pearl buttons.  It will look super cute tucked into pencil skirts and dark jeans, or with leggings and lots of warm layers.

You will need:

• A collared, button-down shirt, preferably a few sizes too big for you
• Scissors, sewing machine or needle, and matching thread
• Elastic
• Beads or buttons if you want to switch out the ones that came with the shirt

Step 1: Lay the shirt out flat on a surface.  Cut the shirt straight across so the shirt is the length you’d like it to end up being (plus about an inch for a seam allowance).

Step 2: Fold under some of the excess fabric at the underarm areas of the shirt.  Your goal is to make the strapless top lay as flat as possible and to get as even as a hem as possible at the top.  I recommend working with the seams that are already in the shirt in order to minimize bulk under the arms.  Pin your seams into place.

Step 3: Once your pins are in place on both sides of the shirt, sew the folds in place using the sewing machine (or needle) and thread, removing the pins as you work.  Cut away any extra fabric on the inside of the shirt and any that sticks out above the hem line.

Once all the excess fabric is cut away, the shirt should look like the picture above.

Step 4: Fold the top hem down to create a clean seam at the top of the shirt.  Be sure this seam allowance is wide enough to thread your elastic through later!  I usually measure the width of the elastic and add 1/4″ or so.  Pin in place as you work.  Sew in place, removing the pins as you work.

Step 5: Measure the elastic around your chest where the shirt will sit when it’s being worn.  Make sure you stretch it out just a bit as you measure so the shirt can actually stretch onto you and stay in place!  Starting at the button placket opening, begin threading the length of elastic through the seam allowance (attaching a safety pin to the elastic makes this process a whole lot easier).  Once you have reached the other side, overlap the ends of the elastic and sew back and forth over it a few times to secure it.  Maneuver it inside the shirt and adjust the ruching evenly around all areas of the shirt.

Step 6: If you want to put new buttons on your shirt, unbutton the shirt and, using scissors, remove the buttons that came with the shirt.  In their place, sew your new buttons or beads using a needle and thread.  Be sure to tightly secure the buttons to the shirt; you don’t want them to fall off with wash and wear!  Once each one is sewn on securely, re-button the shirt to let your new buttons show through!

When I wear my creation for the first time, I’ll be sure to share my outfit with all of you!

Recycling old clothing can be easy with the assistance of some imagination, a sense of fashion, and items found around your home.  What do you think of today’s DIY?  Have you ever recycled an ugly thrift store find into something cuter?  Share your ideas and tips for doing so in the comments below!

Chloe + Isabel Jewelry: Holiday Collection

So as you all may know from my October 14th post, I am a Merchandiser for an amazing and socially-innovative jewelry brand called Chloe + Isabel that sells jewelry online through a merchandiser’s personal boutique, or through at-home trunk shows.  To recap, the brand centers around “The Friendship Philosophy” – that everyone knows a “Chloe” and an “Isabel.”  Chloe represents the part of us that is always in search of the hottest jewelry trends, while Isabel represents the part of us that loves classic, timeless pieces.  These two different sides of us are mirrored within the unique jewelry collections as well.

But today I’m super excited to share with you the launch of Chloe + Isabel’s brand new holiday collection!  The collection was just launched this past week and I am in love with so many of the amazing new pieces.  The holiday collection includes numerous brand new pieces, as well as color updates for old pieces, and so many pieces that would be perfect for gifts.  Below, I’ve shared some of my favorites from the collection.

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Crystal Brûlée Collection

The collection I am, without a doubt, the most excited about is the Crystal Brûlée collection because it best embodies my own personal style.  The pieces contain many beautiful colors including pink, brown, lavender, taupe, and gold.  They are all gorgeous and perfect for the holiday season.

Chloe + Isabel Crystal Brûlée Stone Stretch Bracelet, $68.00.

Chloe + Isabel Crystal Brûlée Stacked Stones Necklace, $38.00.

Chloe + Isabel Crystal Brûlée Clustered Cocktail Ring, $58.00.

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New Pieces & Updated Colors

The holiday collection includes many exciting new pieces, as well as many exciting new color updates of old pieces.  New pieces include feathers, chandelier earrings, chains, and chunky leather cuffs and wrap bracelets, all in rich holiday hues.  The rhinestones of the Fall collection pieces have been updated to include deep, saturated colors that are perfect for the holidays.

Chloe + Isabel Sweeping Feathers Drop Earrings, $48.00.

Chloe + Isabel Cascading Feather Pendant Necklace, $78.00.

Chloe + Isabel Pavé Accented Hinged Leather Cuff, $68.00.

Chloe + Isabel Petite Marquis Stone Collar Necklace, $38.00. Chloe + Isabel Petite Marquis Stone Necklace, $38.00.

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Great Gifts

Some of my favorite new additions to the Chloe + Isabel line are the collection of precious pendant necklaces.  All with their own unique personality, and priced between 38 and 50 dollars, they would make amazing gifts for almost any girl on your holiday shopping list.  Here are only three examples of the pendant necklaces available to purchase…but there are over 20 to choose from!

Chloe + Isabel Pavé Initial Disk “K” Charm Pendant, $38.00.

Chloe + Isabel “Sealed with a Kiss” Envelope Pendant, $42.00.

Chloe + Isabel “Straight Shooter” Sterling Pendant, $50.00.

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What do you think about the Chloe + Isabel Holiday Collection?  Which piece is your favorite?  As always, if you have any comments or questions about the jewelry collection, please feel free to leave them in the comments below.  And if you wish to find out more information about purchasing jewelry, hosting a trunk show (either remotely or on location), or becoming a Chloe + Isabel merchandiser, please feel free to comment below or visit my online boutique at https://www.chloeandisabel.com/boutique/katelynduggan !

Outfit Inspiration: Sequins

Today is Black Friday, which means the holiday season is officially upon us!  With the numerous holiday festivities coming up in the next month, and New Year’s Eve parties following not far behind them, the clothing sold in stores starts to almost instantly become super sparkly in various shades of gold, silver, black, and other rich holiday hues.  And I personally have been obsessed with sequins lately!  Everything with sparkle (from dresses and skirts, to tops and shoes) has been catching my eye lately… you’d think I was a bird being attracted to so many shiny objects.

And with good reason too: sparkles and sequins are perfect for the holiday season!  Obviously, they can easily be dressed up for parties and other similar occasions; but when paired with a chunky knit and cozy tights or leggings, sequin pieces can be dressed down a little bit too for everyday wear.  Today, I’ve styled two outfits that center around sequin pieces: one with a sequin top, and one with a sequin bottom.

Outfit #1: Bright and Edgy

Chloe + Isabel Chandelier Stone Earrings, $38.00. Chloe + Isabel Stone Embellished Bracelet in Resort Blue, $48.00. Chloe + Isabel Classic Stone Stretch Bracelet, $38.00. Forever 21 Sequined Waves Tank in Black/Royal, $19.80. Charlotte Russe Go Glam Sueded Platform Pump in Cobalt, $30.00. Old Navy “The Rockstar” Super Skinny Jeans in Black, $34.50.

This outfit is perfect for a party or a night out on the town!  The royal blue pumps and the teal beaded bracelet draw from the colors in the super unique sequin tank.  But the best part of having a multicolor piece is having the ability to pull multiple color schemes from it to create multiple looks.  Choosing blue creates this edgier look; but choosing purple would make the look appear more feminine.  I kept the rest of the accessories black in order to prevent chaos within the outfit, but I love how the chunky stones in both the bracelet and the earrings contribute to the edgy vibe even more.

Outfit #2: Neutrals with a Pop of Color

Ban.do Party Crasher Headband in Hot Pink, $30.00. Chloe + Isabel Organic Bangle Set, $34.00. Forever 21 Contrast Tie-Neck Blouse in Cream/Beige, $22.80. Charlotte Russe Neon Patent Platform Pump in Neon Pink, $30.00. ASOS Mini Skirt in All Over Sequins in Champagne, $38.70.

There are honestly few colors that I adore more than pink and champagne!  This outfit combines the two in a perfectly girly, party-ready look.  The light, neutral tone of the blouse and the skirt make the neon pink accessories stand out even more (but they would still look great against other neutrals such as black, brown, or even white).  And, seriously, how perfect is this statement-making headband from Ban.do?!  I couldn’t be more pleased with the spunk and vivaciousness that it adds to this outfit!  I kept the jewelry really simple here, with a set of gorgeous gold bangles, so as not to take away from the impact that any of the other pieces are making.

What’s your favorite way to wear sequins: on the top or on the bottom of your outfit?  What items of clothing do you prefer to mix and match them with to create perfect party-ready looks?  Share your thoughts and ideas in the comments below!

Styling: DIYs & Colored Denim

Here’s how I would style two of my past DIY projects, my Erin Fetherston zipper headband and my beaded collar necklace, and my brand new pair of oxblood-colored skinny jeans!

P.S. I’m so sorry that some of the pictures are pretty blurry…Blackberrys do not come equipped with the best cameras!

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Outfit #1: with DIY Erin Fetherston Zipper Headband

DIY Erin Fetherston Zipper Headband. Black Button-Down Top from Forever 21. Tan Belt from Target. Pink High-Waist Skirt, my own design. Black Flats from Charlotte Russe.

Here’s a close-up of the black blouse and the DIY zipper headband…

…and here’s a close-up of the pink skirt, tan belt, and black flats.

This outfit embodies girly and edgy together in one look.  I love the color combination, too (no matter what anyone says, I think that black and brown go great together)!  The pink skirt that I designed and sewed myself, although simple, is super precious and girly.  Adding the black blouse and the black flats keep it from being too girly though.  I added the tan belt so that the tan headband wouldn’t look too out of place and mismatched.

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Outfit #2: with DIY Beaded Collar Necklace

DIY Beaded Collar Necklace. White Cardigan from Target. Silver Bangles from American Eagle. Dark Skinny Jeans from Target. Black Loafer Heels from ShoeDazzle.

A close-up of the beaded collar necklace, white cardigan, and silver bangles…

…and a close-up of the dark skinny jeans and black loafer heels.

Collar necklaces pair best with tops that have a crewneck or a collar, which is why I chose this crewneck cardigan for this look.  I liked how the cardigan and the loafer heels (so unique, I love them!) add a large dose of prep to the outfit.  The jeans are a perfect way to keep this look casual.  I kept the rest of the jewelry really simple, with just some silver bangles, because the collar necklace is such a focal point.  Overall, I love how the collar necklace really adds interest to what would otherwise be a really basic outfit.

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Outfit #3: with ASOS Colored Skinny Jeans

Black Chiffon Blouse from Forever 21. Silver Bangles from American Eagle, Lulu’s Chic Boutique in Downtown Reno, and my mom’s closet. Oxblood Skinny Jeans from ASOS. Black Lace-Up Booties from Forever 21.

Here’s a close-up of the black blouse and silver bangles…

…and here’s a close-up of the fabulous oxblood skinny jeans and black lace-up booties!

I could not resist showcasing these jeans in my post today!  They arrived in the mail yesterday from ASOS, which is by far one of my favorite places to shop, especially online.  They are a deep burgundy color, or oxblood, and I am just obsessed with them.  I paired them with this pretty, black chiffon blouse and a pair of black lace-up booties to create an outfit that is perfectly suited for going out.  To top of the look, and still allow the jeans to be the center of attention, I added a variety of chunky silver bracelets for a pop of sparkle.

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What do you think of the outfits I’ve styled here?  What’s your favorite way to style an edgy headband, a beaded collar, or colored skinny jeans?  Share your thoughts and styling tips in the comments below or on Twitter @katelynduggan !

Monochromatic Outfits

Later this evening, I have a sorority event to attend to which I am required to wear all black…with not a speck of any other color.  This same event, with this same dress code, happens every semester and I am always trying to figure out new ways to wear this same all-black ensemble, while keeping it fashionable and flattering.  This predicament is what inspired me to write a post about monochromatic outfits today!

Black is an easy monochromatic color scheme to pull off, and is usually really flattering since it makes us look so thin.  But wearing an outfit in any one color scheme can be really flattering as well.  Generally speaking, monochromatic outfits make you look taller and leaner.  Back in 2010, one of my favorite blogs, College Fashion, did an article about wearing a monochromatic outfit.  Their tips included choosing pieces with contrast within the same color scheme (such as lavender and darker purple like my outfit below), creating contrast with various textures, and staying away from shades that are too similar (so you don’t look mismatched).  You can read the full article here.

So let’s get started!  Here are 2 easy outfits to put together to rock the monochromatic outfit trend:

Outfit #1: Black

Gap Perfect Shirt in True Black, $49.95. Anthropologie Lily Mineral Necklace in Grey, $38.00. J. Crew Tippi Sweater in Black, $79.50. Charlotte Russe Pointed Toe Color Block Pump in Black Combo, $30.00. ASOS Mini Skirt in All Over Sequins in Black, $26.39.

 

The pieces in this black outfit are all so versatile and can be worn for so many different occasions.  The black collared shirt and the crewneck black sweater are, by themselves, super basic; but when the sweater is layered over the collared shirt, it creates a preppy vibe that perfectly contrasts and dresses down the sequin mini skirt.  I added pops of light grey to the outfit with the ombre necklace (which can be worn as a collar necklace underneath the collar of the shirt) and the color-block pumps.  You could also substitute the ombre necklace for my DIY Beaded Collar Necklace for a fun, trendy vibe.

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Outfit #2: Purple

Anthropologie Dimensional Drops in Purple, $48.00. Lower East Side Women’s Chelsea Flat in Tan, $16.99. Forever 21 Pearlescent Embellished Sweater in Orchid, $22.80. The Rockstar Super Skinny Jeans in Juicy Grape, $34.50.

 

Purple is one of my all-time favorite colors!  I love how rich and royal it is when it’s a dark hue, and how girly it is when it’s lighter.  I also love how the color seems to be perfect for each and every season.  This outfit is simple and casual.  The pearls on the lavender sweater and the vintage-y earrings give the look a girly vibe, while the super skinny jeans in a much bolder color give the outfit a punch and keep it from looking too precious.  A nude shoe is the colorful outfit’s savior – they keep it from getting too mismatched and don’t distract from the focal pieces in the look.  These would be a great buy for any fashion-forward gal…especially for only 17 bucks!

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Have you ever worn a monochromatic outfit?  What’s your favorite color to make a monochromatic outfit with?  Do you have any additional tips for making this trend work for you?  Share any pictures, ideas, tips, or comments below!

3 Great Outfits to Wear on Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving is officially one week from today!  Of course, we’re all excited about getting to eat a delicious meal with all of our closest family members and friends; but before all the thanks can be given, a much bigger question must be answered: “What will I wear on this beloved holiday?”  No matter what your plans are for Turkey Day, the perfect outfit must be found.  Below, I’ve picked out three outfits that will not only make you look really amazing and totally fashionable, but keep you comfortable all day long (no one wants to have a full belly in an uncomfortable outfit)!  And they’d all be easy to pack in your suitcase if you’re heading out of town.  Read on!

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Outfit #1: Dress and Tights

Chloe + Isabel Fan Drop Stone Earrings, $34.00. Mossimo Women’s Ultra Soft Boyfriend Cardigan in Black, $22.99. H&M Dress in Dark Green, $12.95. Pretty Polly Dotty Tights in Black, $17.59. Liz Claiborne Dapper Suede Flat in Black, $49.95.

 

This first outfit would be perfect for a slightly more formal Thanksgiving gathering.  While we all love an excuse to get dressed up – and this look’s dress, playful tights, and ladylike earrings certainly achieve that – the cardigan sweater and loafer flats keep the look casual and easily transferable for multiple occasions.

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Outfit #2: Pretty and Polished

Victoria’s Secret Silk Henley in Sundown Brown, $79.50. American Eagle Corduroy Jegging in French Vanilla, $49.95. Chloe + Isabel Sculpted Feather Hinged Cuff, $78.00. SM Women’s Henlyy Flat in Cognac, $49.95.

 

This outfit is also ready for any occasion your holiday may have in store.  The warm cognac and gold colors in this look perfectly complement the colors of the season.  Warm up a silky blouse with soft, comfortable corduroy skinny pants and top the look off with studded flats and a statement cuff for the perfect combination of edgy and girly.

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Outfit #3: Comfy and Casual

AEO Colorblock Loop Scarf in Berry, $29.95. ShoeDazzle Lassoed Bootie, $39.95. Do Me a Solid Top in Plum, $14.99. American Eagle Jegging in Soft Rinse Indigo- Super Stretch, $44.95.

 

Casual occasions are definitely not an excuse to lie around in your sweatpants all day!  To keep your sense of fashion in tact for a casual Thanksgiving, liven up a pair of dark skinny jeans with a basic tee shirt in a rich, Fall color.  Then top it off with a cozy scarf and Western-inspired boots in a similar color scheme.  You’ll definitely be thankful for how comfortable and chic you’ll be!

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How are you spending your Thanksgiving holiday this year?  What fashionable outfit do you plan on putting on for the big day?  Share your ideas in the comments below, or Tweet them to me: @katelynduggan !

Outfit Inspiration: Black Tee Dress

I don’t think there’s any item of clothing (except for a white tee shirt and jeans, of course) that’s much more versatile than a Little Black Dress.  They come in every style, shape, silhouette, and fabric imaginable, making them perfect for almost any occasion imaginable.  One of my particular favorite types of dresses is the tee dress.  I find them to be super flattering for most body types, literally as comfortable as a tee shirt, and wearable in every season.

Forever 21 Matelassé Cap Sleeve Dress in Black, $10.50.

 

This dress from Forever 21 was my inspiration for the two outfits in this post.  I love how it is so easily dressed up and dressed down.  And since it’s a neutral color, it can be styled in thousands, or maybe even millions, of other ways too.  And it retails for less than 11 dollars!  Seriously…what more do I need to say?

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Outfit #1: Casual

Chloe + Isabel Layered Scales Metal Bib Necklace, $98.00. Mossimo Supply Co. Juniors Stripe Cardigan in Oatmeal Stripe, $19.99. Forever 21 100 Denier Tights in Pink, $5.50. Mia Alexis Oxford Flats in Silver, $49.95.

 

This casual outfit is perfect for Fall!  The cozy sweater and the coordinating tights will keep you warm during the chilly Fall months, while the accents of shiny silver from the bib necklace and the oxfords keep the outfit looking polished and pulled together.  I can totally see myself wearing this outfit to class, to a sorority event, or out shopping on the weekend.

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Outfit #2: Dressed Up

Chloe + Isabel Sculpted Curve Metal Stick Earrings, $24.00. Merona Watercolor Floral Wrap, $14.99. Forever 21 Shawl Collar Cutaway Blazer in Bright Cobalt, $32.80. Charlotte Russe Sueded Uber Platform Pump in Kiwi, $32.50.

 

This outfit proves that the tee dress can be party-ready just as easily as it can be weekend-ready!  I am obsessed with the colors in this gorgeous scarf from Target, a steal for less than 15 bucks!  The cobalt-colored blazer and the bright yellow pumps really accentuate those particular colors from the scarf.  But honestly, you could wear any of the colors from the scarf with this dress; whichever ones you choose will bring out those particular colors in the scarf, for a whole new look.  I kept the jewelry really simple here, since there are so many focal pieces in the rest of the outfit.

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What do you think of the looks I’ve styled?  How would you wear your tee dress in the Fall/Winter?  Share your thoughts and ideas in the comments below!

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Outfit Inspiration: White Tee Shirt and Jeans

Outfit Inspiration: 1 Skirt, 3 Ways

Outfit Inspiration: White Tee Shirt and Jeans

There isn’t a more classic outfit than a white tee shirt and a dark pair of jeans.  The combination is the epitome of comfy and casual.  However, in my opinion, it is probably one of the most boring outfits known to man.  Luckily, a white tee shirt and jeans can be spruced up in a million different ways!  The outfit can, of course, be worn casual with tennis shoes, flats, boots, scarves, jewelry, sweaters, or really any item of clothing imaginable.  The combination can also be dressed up a bit with heels, blazers, anything with sequins on it, and many other pieces.

I used the following white tee shirt and jeans for all of my outfits:

Tresics Women’s Crew Neck Cap Sleeve Tee in White, $9.99. American Eagle Skinny Jean in Tinted Rinse- Super Stretch, $44.95.

I absolutely love both of these basic items.  This tee shirt is available from Scheels, which sounds like a weird store to buy fashionable clothes from but trust me…the tees are very soft, fit amazingly, and are of good quality.  These jeans from American Eagle are also great.  I love their jeans because they fit well, keep their shape and hold up nicely over time, and are usually pre-shrunk.  I find that they are a little stiff when you first get them, but persevere and keep wearing them, because you will love them in a month or two!

Here are just three of my favorite ways to add interest to a white tee shirt and jeans.

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Outfit #1: Casual

Claire’s Antique Floral Headband in Bronze, $8.50. Chloe + Isabel Oversized Link Stretch Bracelet, $45.00. AEO Pointelle Loop Scarf in Grey, $24.95. ShoeDazzle Lati Boots in Taupe, $39.95.

In the fall and winter, boots are my favorite thing to wear!  I love how they pull together an outfit and make you feel cozy and look chic all at the same time.  Pairing a white tee shirt and jeans with boots and a cozy scarf, and topping the whole outfit off with a headband and a chunky bracelet creates the perfect outfit.  This outfit would be great for school, a Saturday afternoon movie date, running errands, or going out to lunch.  I even wore an outfit just like this one out to a bar last night!

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Outfit #2: Hitting the Town

Forever 21 Trilliant Cut Pendant Necklace in Brown, $4.80. Chloe + Isabel Long Modern Deco Pave Ball Pendant, $58.00. AE Cropped Sequin Blazer in Champagne, $49.95. Forever 21 Pointed Patent Pumps in Blush, $27.80.

Many times when I go out, I am torn between dressing formally and dressing casually.  I love that this outfit meshes the two options seamlessly together.  I am obsessed with this sequin blazer from American Eagle – it is quite a find for only 50 bucks!  The white tee shirt and jeans definitely dress down the blazer, while the heels and layered necklaces dress it up.  I can see this outfit being worn on New Year’s Eve, to a nightclub, or for a more formal dinner date with someone special.

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Outfit #3: Girly

Forever 21 Pearlescent Bead Headband in Taupe, $4.80. Chloe + Isabel Deco Flower Earrings in Rose Gold, $38.00. ASOS Peplum Frill Jacket in Nude, $61.57. Charlotte Russe Sueded Pointy Toe Ballet Flat in Blush, $19.50.

I don’t know about anyone else, but I am one of the girly-est girls you will ever meet!  And I love looking the part too.  This sweet, pale pink peplum blazer is the perfect contrast to the dark skinny jeans.  Pair with flats, girly earrings, and a pearl headband and you’re ready to have a girl’s night out, attend a lunch date, or grab drinks with the boyfriend/fiance/husband!  But honestly, this outfit is versatile enough to fit in with the dress code for any occasion!

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Which of these looks is your favorite?  What is your favorite way to style a white tee shirt and jeans?  Share in the comments below!

Everyday Runway: Christian Dior, Georgio Armani Privé

I love fashion shows!  Unfortunately, I have not had the pleasure of attending one yet (hopefully someday!) but when I view pictures from the fashion shows of the hottest designers, I can’t help but to be inspired.  I have also not had the pleasure of ever being able to afford anything straight off the runway (maybe someday…) so I look to my favorite moderately-priced brands to help me create looks that are similar to those from the runways.

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Christian Dior Fall 2012 Haute Couture

Source

This outfit is so perfect for fall and winter.  The voluminous peplum top, which are so hot right now, creates such great contrast with the straight-legged trousers.  The collar necklace adds just the right amount of sparkle to the all-black outfit.  I think this look is perfect for a holiday party, but could be equally perfect for the office with the addition of a cropped cardigan or blazer.

Sources: Top, Jeans, Necklace, and Heels

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Georgio Armani Privé Fall 2012 Haute Couture

Source

This look is the epitome of chic.  I absolutely love the color combination of pale blue and black, and the combination of textures.  Personally, it reminds me of a tuxedo – an extremely elegant, ladylike tuxedo.  While the actual look would be perfect for more formal occasions, my look is much more casual and very office-appropriate.

Sources: Beret, Earrings, Blazer, Trousers, and Heels

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What was your favorite designer runway show from Fall 2012?  How do the runways inspire your everyday looks?  Please share your thoughts in the comments below!

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