Transition.

By now, most of us should be getting used to the fact that winter is here, the holidays are upon us, and warm weather is no more... yes, even in Southern California. I think it took me a little longer than most, but I've finally coming to terms with the fact that beachwear and sundresses can be stored away in a far far away place for another few month. Hopefully most of you are much further ahead than I am with facing reality, but for those of you who are not, don't be so quick to store away all your summer loves. Many times those seasonal pieces can be mixed and matched with fall and winter wear to create numerous outfit possibilities. 

Layering! Such a beautiful thing.

I stumbled across these photos taken in late summer/early fall, and realized that they are the perfect transition example.

I purchased this dress to wear in the summer months. Its sleeveless and cool, while at the same time, very appropriate for most business settings, or in my case, school settings. The one thing I love about this dress is how versatile it is. Versatile... I know! I say it over and over again. But when you have great pieces that can be worn so many different ways it leaves so much room for endless ensemble ideas. Also, you'll have minimal shopping needs and an easier time with work outfit planning... win win.

Here I made it simple. Cognac sandals with a small heel, a gorgeous leather bag, and a simple watch. Easy.

Check out more photos from the summer photo session below, and then get check out some ideas of how to implement this look into a winter love.

 

Outfit Breakdown

Dress: Old Navy $20
Shoes: Nine West Outlet Nine West $15

Bag: Banana Republic $... 

(I can't tell you! It was a gift for my 

sis from me and I'm not gonna 

blast that on here ;)

Watch: Fossil Outlet Fossil $30

Now, the other fantastic part about this outfit... its so not just a summer dress! The black and tan color of the dress make completely wearable for any season. Unfortunately for myself... my photographer and I are geologically not so close anymore. So, I must devise a new way of getting these ideas up and out, but until then, all I ask is for patience and a little imagination. ;)

Here are some ideas how to make this outfit cold weather ready:

1. A Black Blazer.                             2. Black Tights.                                          3. Cognac Boots

* If you're wearing the blazer with a dress, especially one with an A-line skirt, keep the jacket on the shorter side so it doesn't swallow up you or your outfit.

* If you wear black tights, aim toward pair that have a sheerness to them. Especially if you do a black blazer or cardigan... it gives a little more dimension to the outfit.

* If you go for boots, maybe throw on a cardigan and scarf, and keep your look a little more casual. If I was wearing these boots with my dress above, I'd wear sheer black tights, a black cardigan and a dark teal scarf. Its always fun to "pop a color."

Check out your closet and see if there is anything you overlooked in transitioning over to the cold side of the year. Mix and match with your favorite winter accessories and see what you can create! As always, if there are questions... send them my way and feel free to let me know what you come up with yourself! 

Remember what you wear isn't really important. Who you are is an artistic and unique creation, and clothing, accessories, hairdos, and shoes are nothing but decorative tools.

Arranging outfits makes me happy. Seeing people confident in how they look makes me happy. And witnessing someone recognize the beauty within themselves and helping them see it, is a worthy goal that I will continue to pursue. Hope each of you reading this takes time to appreciate the absolute value that you hold. 

Have a fantastic day :)