Blazer Gets Dressed Up

 [model: Anna Rudenko. blazer: BCBG. dress: French Connection. tights: Hue. booties: Max Studio. clutch: vintage Bally. watch: Michael Kors. necklace & ring: vintage.]

        A constant go-to of mine is my favorite black blazer, so I had been on the hunt for another in a neutral shade to incorporate into my wardrobe. When I spotted this one, and in navy, no less! (which has been my black substitution lately) I knew it was meant to be. It has great structural detail and the black lapel lends a modern edge. The length of the sleeve is great, allowing anything adorning your wrists to be showcased. For a night out, I chose a striped dress that works with the strong details of the blazer and whose shade of red adds bold, attention-grabbing color. For a subtly unexpected touch, I added black booties with a little edge.

All photo credit: Lauren Mantilla.

Gold accessories look lux against the rich shades.

All content property of Lauren Mantilla.

Big Girl Bows

[model: Anna Rudenko. dress: Moschino. shoes: Boutique 9. headband: Forever 21. lips: MAC Media.]

        There are some pieces that are meant to have a moment. This dress demanded its moment. However, it didn't begin as a showstopper. Originally, this dress had long sleeves and a much longer skirt. I had the sleeves removed and the skirt hemmed. The sash I styled as a dramatic bowed necktie. Adding a statement making bow headband and caged booties with leather bow accents kept the look girlie but daring.
  

All photo credit: Lauren Mantilla

Bows, head to toe. 

All content property of Lauren Mantilla.