how to: mix high and low

I woke up to an unexpected snow day today (from my day job), and I've been catching up on emails and scouting my favorite retailers all morning. Sure, the snow is (kind of) getting old, but a wild card catch-up day is never, ever a bad thing. Ever since I saw the Tiffany bean necklace in 7th grade, I've never had a problem with justifying spending on investment pieces. I realize that this (blessing / curse) is not the norm. Even though I love a high quality, designer dud just as much as the next person, take a peek in my closet and you'll find a 50 / 50 mix of high fashion and trendy, fast fashion.

What's the key to a good mix of high and low, or rather, investment and bargain pieces?

// shirt (low) // pants (high) // shoes (low) // bag (high) // watch (low) //

1. Invest in neutrals: Spring for the classic blue jeans, the black boots, the  understated down winter coat, or the tan leather handbag. Spend less on colorful, pattern-filled items.

2. Consider downgrading simple basics (or look alikes): A plain white cotton tee is a plain white cotton tee, whether it's made by Chanel or Gap. If the material is the same, go for the less expensive option. Years ago I was coveting a $70 chambray button down from Banana Republic. I couldn't really afford it, but I loved it so much, so I challenged myself. I told myself that if I couldn't find a similar version across the street at H&M, I would buy it. Low and behold, I went home 20 minutes later with an identical chambray top from H&M, for $40 cheaper. I still own the shirt to this day and it always gets compliments.

3. Rule of thumb: If you love it, buy it. I repeat; if you LOVE it, buy it. Anyone can walk into Forever 21 or Marshall's and drop $100 on random pieces just because. Take the time, every time, to truly consider the wearability of a piece. If you love it, but it's polyester and will only make it through one season before it disintegrates, go for it. Same goes for that cashmere sweater. Especially the cashmere sweater - which you can wear again and again and hand down to a niece or nephew one day. If you love it (and can afford it!), buy it.

What kind of shopper are you? A delayed gratification splurge shopper? Or a fast fashion loving saver? Or a bit of both? I'd love to hear.

xoxo,

style dictionary: henley

Good morning from snowy Astoria! Everyone in NYC is bummed about yesterday's small storm, but you have to admit, winter wonderland is better than just plain cold (with a side of filthy snow). And what's more, we're free to dream about Spring no matter the weather! Which is why I'm excited for today's style dictionary word: HENLEY. Henley is defined as "a casual top with a scoop neck and a short row of buttons in the center of the neckline."

If you still have no idea what I'm talking about,

Originally more of a men's shirt (worn by English rowers), ladies can find henley's just about anywhere these days. My favorite come from J. Crew (see above); the brand does menswear inspired so well.

A henley is perfect for Spring - chic, effortless, comfortable, and classic. Here's how I envision the look:

// henley // jeans // bag // espadrilles // sunglasses //

Talk to me, friends. You like? I think this outfit would be perfect for a sunny vacation. Don't forget to subscribe to LRW and get my packing list for free!!

xoxo,

picture of the week: sale edition

Happy Friday, friends! Is it just me or has winter eased up a tiiiiiny bit? Even though it's 23 degrees here today, I'm so thankful that the sun is shining and it's not 5 degrees! What are your plans for the weekend? My sister is coming up and we're going dress shopping for her MOH dress, followed by boozy brunch and manicures. Whatever you're up to this weekend, I hope it's a great one! To change things up a bit, here are my favorite sales from this week - hope you find something good!

This bag is a dead ringer for Chanel. Love it in blue!

JOA always has unique pieces for a steal, this top is on super sale!

Love these and these jeans for transitioning to spring.

Pump. it. up.

This sweater is on point.

An affordable, classic trench.

Do scoop up a winter coat for next season now!

See you Monday, loves!

xoxo,

one dress, two ways

Good morning, friends! It's Thursday, which means it's date night over here at our house. Big plans include drinking a bottle of wine and watching Scandal, and possibly going out for a drink (because let's be serious, after one I'm ready for jammies). Before that, though, I wanted to share one of my recent projects. I've been doing a lot of Spring sourcing, and I want to wet your whistle for my night at The Brass Owl in 2 weeks!

// dress // pumps // navy jacket // sandals // olive jacket //

 I'd be lying if I said I wasn't starting to think about Spring fashion a little bit. Layering is my favorite, and Spring affords us the opportunity to air ourselves out while still being able to bundle. My client's style is laid back bohemian, and this look is giving me work apropos with a hint of 70's vibe.

Talk to me, what are your thoughts for Spring?

xoxo,

my ski-kend with get outfitted

Earlier this year, my friend Emily mentioned renting some ski gear for her trip to Park City, Utah. I assumed she would meant skis and boots, etc, so when she told me she rented an entire ensemble, I perked up immediately.

Get Outfitted is an online rental company based out of Colorado that specializes in everything you need to get away for a ski-kend. Picture this: you plan a ski getaway, but your pea coat isn't exactly cutting it. Rather than spend hundreds of dollars on ski pants, goggles, a new jacket, etc, you can select an entire outfit directly from Get Outfitted.

Choose either a premium package ($135 for a 3 day rental) with brands like Burton and Patagonia, or a basic package ($90 for a 3 day rental) to discover new-to-you brands. Each outfit includes waterproof pants, a jacket, gloves and goggles. The best part? They'll ship directly to your hotel, with a prepaid return envelope. If there's one thing I love more than looking stylish all the time, it's ease.

I ended up wearing this outfit on the slopes on Saturday - and I fell in love with these Patagonia pants. I always feel frumpy when I'm skiing, but I loved that these pants miraculously showed off my figure. Paired with an army green bomber by Fera, Burton gloves, and mirrored goggles (!!!). I was in style heaven - not to mention warm.

I was also able to try a completely different outfit, with a Burton jacket and Nike pants (fleece lined!) that I paired with my own Rails button down. Totally different look that I love just as much. And in the case that you love your outfit so much you don't want to part with it - Get Outfitted has an end of season sale where you can scoop up merchandise at bargain prices. Maybe I'll snag those Patagonia pants, after all...

I had such a wonderful experience with Get Outfitted - I highly recommend it!

xoxo,

While this is not a sponsored post, I was gifted a rental package by Get Outfitted.

All thoughts and opinions are my own.