Effortless Essentials: The 52 Piece Checklist

Happy second day of June! If you've been following along for a while now you know that I rely on a selection of "effortless essentials" to stretch my wardrobe across all four seasons. These pieces are not only versatile, but also timeless and allow me to mix and match my clothes for a multitude of outfits. With this ethos in mind and because I'm a sucker for lists, I have compiled what I consider to be the ultimate comprehensive list of these essentials with a printable PDF to boot. Over the next few months I will continue to share detailed overviews of each of these pieces but in the meantime I hope this list helps you narrow in on the essentials that will complete your own wardrobe. 

Until next time!

Effortless Essential: Polka-Dot Dress

With the suddenly warmer temps in the city I have been daydreaming about the items I am looking forward to wearing this spring and summer. At the top of this list has to be a timeless polka-dot dress that is eternally effortless and classic, and can be worn across all seasons with strategic layering. While so many great options are available, I have my eye on this gorgeous silk georgette polka dot dress from Ralph Lauren. Not only is this dress timeless and high quality, it is also on sale here and here with an additional 10% off with email sign-up and free shipping using the code FREESHIP! 

I have snatched one up before they sell out and can't wait to style it with ballet flats, cardigans, blazers and my jean jacket in the spring and strappy heels, sandals and wide brim hats in the summer. While I wait for mine to arrive in the mail, I have rounded up some of my favorite silk dress inspo below.   

 From Left To Right:  1 , 2 , 3

Until next time! 

Effortless Essentials: Bean Boots

In light of Winter Storm Jonas, my newest "Effortless Essentials" post is all about my favorite snow boots. Spending most of my childhood in Florida I never needed to worry about snow, or appropriate snow gear so when I moved up to the city I was in for a bit of a shock. Not only did I need to stock up on socks, coats, scarves and hats, but I also desperately needed new footwear. As the temperatures dropped my first winter in New York, and the threat of snow became imminent, I deferred my boot search to my husband and native Mainer, who instantly recommended the cult classic and incredibly popular L.L. Bean Boots.

Before I go any further, let me say that these are SO WORTH THE HYPE! These wonder boots are made in Maine, completely waterproof, warm and oh-so versatile as you can see below, and on my fall/winter pinterest board. To suit a myriad of tastes, heights and weather conditions L.L. Bean offers an array of styles to choose from, but I have found that the classic 8 inch with thinsulate are the best. They are the perfect height to keep snow and slush from slipping into my socks and can be worn with pants, leggings, jeans and even skirts and dresses in the fall. If you're a first time bean buyer it is also important to note that these boots run very large to accommodate thick socks so I would size down a whole size - I am typically a size 7 in boots and ordered a 6 and they fit perfectly. 

Image 1 / Image 2 / Image 3 / Image 4 / Image 5 / Image 6

Until next time, happy Beaning! 

Effortless Essentials: Brooches

Accessories are critical when it comes to stretching a classic, minimized wardrobe. From hats to belts to jewelry, these add-ons have the power to completely transform standard pieces and add that extra pizzazz that keeps things from being boring. Brooches are the perfect example of this concept and are one accessory I can't get enough of. Whether I'm wearing a simple t-shirt or classic shift, brooches add that perfect lady-like polish that makes the outfit memorable.  

The best places to find vintage brooches are local thrift and antique shops, flea markets and of course eBay and Etsy. If you dedicate some time to searching through the offerings, you can find some one-of-a-kind, gorgeous pieces to add to your collection. Below, I have included some of the ways I've styled my brooches in the past that I hope will inspire you to give it a go. 

Look 1 / Look 2 / Look 3 / Look 4

Until next time!