5 Autumn Sweaters to Cozy Up In

Me: I’m going to buy ALL the sweaters.

Also me: *sees sweater prices* well, let’s see which ones I should prioritize.

I love a good sweater, but sometimes it is hard to sort through all the trendy sweaters (I’m looking at you, Dinosaur Fair Isles that show up at Forever 21 every year) to find ones that won’t just be a good sweater this year, but for the next 5-10 years. I’ve done a little bit of digging and have found 5 of the best Autumn sweaters I can find; these will carry you through not just Fall and Winter, but into Spring as well.

1. Classic Boat-Neck Sweater from Old Navy, $20

Who doesn’t love a classic stripey sweater? I love the soft, oatmeal-gray color of this one, as well as the longer, tunic shape. It’s perfect for a quick outfit over leggings; but you can also wear it with jeans or trousers and a blazer for a more work-appropriate look.

2. Knit Sweater from H&M, $34.99

The big cozy. I feel like I’m always looking for the perfect oversized sweater. For being so popular, they are sure are hard to find. This one from H&M is perfect: soft, cozy, and oversized. It will look great with leggings when you’re running errands. Or with your sweatpants when you’re at home. You know, either one.

3. Play It Cowl Sweater from ModCloth, $59.00

We often think of Autumn colors as purely in the warm family; however, I consider all jewel tones, like emerald and teal, to also be Autumn colors. That’s why I picked this sweater; I love the rich teal color, as well as the comfy cowl neck. It’s perfect for wearing with trousers to work, then going to a Holiday party afterwards. Honestly, it’s just the perfect sweater. This may be one I’ve ordered for myself. It’s that cute!

4. Impossibly Soft Cable Knit Sweater from American Eagle, $44.95

I love American Eagle sweaters and despite being considered somewhat of a “teenager" brand, they hold up really well. This cable knit sweater is such a classic—and I love this burnt orange color! It will look so cute with jeans and a scarf, as well as over a skirt and tights. Plus, it’s super, super soft—that means no itchy wool!

5. Crofton Striped Pullover Sweater from Madewell, $69.99

Ah, this sweater. It’s cute, classic, and can carry you through all the seasons, at it is a bit lighter than the others sweaters here. I love the colorblocking because you can wear it with lots of different combinations of skirts, trousers, and jeans. I also love the slightly baggy, relaxed shape. It’s a little expensive (nearly $70 on sale!), but with good care, it will last you several years.

5 Inspirational Autumn Outfits

I used to love writing posts like this, but in the last year, it has become increasingly difficult. Why? Because Polyvore shut down! I feel like Polyvore was such a unique, early-to-mid 2000s blogging resource and now, it’s simply gone. I’ve turned to Instagram instead to gather outfits to inspire us in these Autumn todays.

Today is the first legitimately rainy day of Autumn here in Oregon. It makes me want to snuggle up and read, or watch movies. But instead, I have to work (of course). For that reason, the outfits I’ve chosen are appropriate for both the weekend and casual workplaces. In a testament to how much I’ve changed in the last few years, all of these outfits include jeans!

Let me know in the comments your favorite outfit (and what your favorite rainy day movie is!).

1. Burnt Orange

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A post shared by Ashley (@twentiesgirlstyle) on Oct 29, 2017 at 6:43pm PDT

I have always been a little obsessed with this slightly burnt orange color. And lately, I’ve been feeling bell sleeves and (dare I say it?) peplums. I used to be heartily anti peplum, but then I had a baby, and well… a peplum hides a lot doesn’t it? I love this outfit, complete with sensible boots, dark jeans, and a cozy scarf. 

2. Pretty in Pink

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A post shared by Ashleigh Hopping (@by.ashleigh) on May 14, 2018 at 3:08pm PDT

If you’re in a colder climate, this is a great outfit. As well, not all autumnal outfits have to be warm-toned! A dusty pink sweater, a thick cozy beanie, and jeans is perfect for a busy weekend. Pop on a coat over the top and it can transition to winter really easily. 

3. Monotone

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A post shared by d e b | sunsets and stilettos (@sunsetsandstilettos) on Dec 11, 2017 at 6:42pm PST

I love gray. I wear gray more than any other color. This pale sweater with a thick scarf and beanie is great for the weekend when it is particularly blustery. 

4. Striped

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A post shared by Ashley (@twentiesgirlstyle) on Jan 2, 2018 at 8:42am PST

Another peplum top! I told you, they are growing on me a bit! I love this simple, comfy looking striped peplum top. Paired with a simple cardigan and boots, this is a great outfit for the pumpkin patch or a work meeting. 

5. Grandpa Sweater

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A post shared by Ashley (@twentiesgirlstyle) on Oct 1, 2018 at 6:30pm PDT

I unabashedly love grandpa sweaters. You know the ones: the thick, homey sweaters that are perfect for tucking tissues into the pockets. (Yes, you heard me. Tissue pockets.) I love this sweater because it is so ornate and yet, so cozy looking. Add a striped top and your favorite jeans and you’re ready to go. 

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One last note! Do you have a Blogtober post you want shared? Send me a tweet on Twitter with a link; I’m putting together my first Best of Blogtober post this week!

5 Casual Summer Outfits That Are Perfect for Vacation

It's June! That means summer has arrived and we're all anxiously looking forward to vacation (hopefully...) I know for me, my upcoming vacation felt like a Very Big Deal. I haven't talked about it much, but I've been working on losing weight the last few months; I've managed to shed over 15 pounds, as far as I can estimate, which is a big deal. I'm below my pre-pregnancy weight and I finally feel like clothes look like clothes on me again. 

For that reason, I ~splurged~ and actually bought three new shirts for my vacation. That's right, three shirts and a new pair of $10 Forever 21 jeans is a splurge these days. Oi vei. 

Here are 5 outfits that will be perfect for any summer holiday, regardless of where you're going. 

1. The Disney Outfit

Lifetime Pass to Disneyland by nonniekiss featuring black flats

The secret is out: I'm going to Disneyland for my vacation. What can I say? It's my favorite place. This is a perfect outfit for Disneyland: comfy top, comfy jeans, small purse. I don't recommend flip flops; your feet will kill at the end of the day, but some cushioned Vans or sneakers would look cute too. Cool, casual, totally easy. 

2. The Tropical Outfit

Summer Outfit by eternalsonata featuring a sleeveless dress

If you're the lucky soul who gets to go somewhere sandy and sunny for vacation, well then, this is the outfit for you. A pretty patterned dress will keep you cool and will look great over your bikini. Interesting sandals, sunglasses, and a simply lipstick will mean good Instagram photos. 

3. The Road Trip Outfit

~Oh I miss those days as the years go by~ by maloops featuring flower jewelry

You're going to be in the car, on the move, for a long period of time. Comfy jeans, a pretty hat, and a loose top are perfect. A patterned top is perfect for the car because, if you're like me, you'll spill something on yourself inevitably (or, um, your toddler will launch a juice into the front seat). Comfy flats and simple accessories mean you'll look cute along the way too. 

4. The Explorer Outfit

Dusty Books by kearalachelle featuring a leather satchel

So you're going to your dream city: Austin, Texas, or New York City, or Los Angeles. This outfit is for you. Comfy, cool, and very hip, you'll fit in. A cute patterned dress, a comfy cardigan (because I always like to have my arms covered), a roomy bag, and some quirky shoes. 

5. The Stay-Cation Outfit

Grunge by avonsblessing94 featuring high heel platform shoes

You're harumphing through this post because, harumph, you don't get to go on vacation! Don't worry; this is my first summer vacation in, seriously, six or seven years. If you're staying at home, or maybe just traveling to visit family, you can still get a special outfit. This outfit is perfect for staying at home, going out on the town, or visiting family: a simple, tank top dress topped with your favorite cozy flannel and paired with some killer boots (if you're feeling a little gothy) or some plain black flats or sandals (if you're not feeling so gothy). 

Just a Little Spring-to-Summer Outfit Inspiration

If you follow me on Twitter, you probably noticed I had a small blogging crisis the other night. I've been struggling to feel motivated regarding my blog lately... and then I start to panic about what I'm doing, whether what I'm doing opens me up to criticism I'm not sure I can handle, and if what I'm doing is safe for my son. I don't talk about Forrest very much anymore and I'm very careful about the photos I post about him now, especially on Instagram and Twitter. But opening yourself up can be challenging. I love blogging and it is very hard for me to separate my life as I know it from my blog... because blogging is so much a part of my identity. 

I guess what I'm saying is: thank you for the messages I received, the notes of love for my blog. It really helps me feel like what I'm doing has some kind of purpose (even if it is just bringing a small piece of joy to other people) and I feel more comfortable with what I've shared so far. 

Anyway, whenever I'm feeling a little down about my blog, I try to go to some of my "easier" post ideas. I wanted to share some of the pretty Polyvore sets I've been liking for that spring-to-summer transition. If you follow me Instagram, you know I've been working out a lot and eating healthy. I have finally (FINALLY!) after nearly 5 years of struggling started to lose weight; I think I just found the right balance and motivation. So I'm excited for summer, obviously. 

Here are a few outfits to get you inspired too. 

1. Neutral

No 369:Cute Spring Cardis (On Top of Top Set) by lovepastel featuring square glasses

I'm feeling extremely covetous of that little lace top, but for now, it's outside of my current confidence zone. That being said, the blush-tan neutral is a great way to transition a winter wardrobe to spring and then to summer--and these items are particularly work appropriate. 

2. That floral

Spring by duma-duma featuring a sun hat

If you know me, you know I love a floral--and I'm particularly loving the lush, vivid florals we are seeing lately! The bold print of this shirt dress would be perfect for the office (with some leggings or tights, of course) topped with a blazer; and then you could also wear it to the 4 million weddings and graduation parties we are all attending in the next few months. 

3. Day-glo

Spring in Mexico by karineminzonwilson featuring wall home decor

I'm normally NOT a neon fan, but when I saw this set, I actually looked at this dress and seriously considered buying it. It is gorgeous, right? I love a Peter Pan collar and I love a floral, but this dress is unlike any I've ever really seen. Combined with some funky sunglasses, it's another great graduation party option--just remember to slather on the sunscreen because in an outfit at bright as this, you're gonna need some sun protection. 

4. Striped Preppy Classics

Spring by genesis129 featuring outdoor decor

Again, not confident enough to high-waisted short shorts at this point in my life, but I'm really loving the bomber jacket and letterman jacket trend. This one is particularly cute (and comfy looking). Paired with a striped top and jeans, it would be perfect for a casual weekend day or even a more casual workplace. Plus, you'll stay warm in the air conditioning that I know is torturing most women in office buildings right now. 

5. For vacation

summer dress by monykhaled featuring Luminess Air

I'm actually looking for a dress like this for my vacation this summer. I love blush pink, but it does wash me out a bit. However, I also love the off-the-shoulder look (I know) and this dresses silhouette is particularly flattering. Paired with a strappy sandal and a little bag, it's perfect for a fancy dinner at home or on vacation. 

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5 Young Professional Outfits to Wear This Week

It feels like half a century ago that I wrote my post on how to dress professionally as a new graduate. Looking at my photos makes me realize how much fashion has changed since I wrote that post (4 years ago!?). It's time for a refresh, so I thought I'd share some of my favorite Polyvore sets for workwear.

These outfits are definitely more appropriate for a "casual" office; if you work as a lawyer, paralegal, etc., you probably won't be able to wear these exact outfits. But they're great for a little inspiration! 

1. Black & White

OOTD by felytery featuring white flats

I love a good stripe-focused outfit. This one has all the makings of professional wear--a nice pair of black pants, a striped top, and a jacket--with a nice, young twist. If you work in a more "strict" dress coded office, you can wear your standard trousers or pencil skirt, and a snazzy white blazer over a striped blouse. Pair with black pumps for the same chic, French feel.   

2. Pastel Florals

Casual by mahafromkailash featuring bootie boots

You know how I said this outfits were more for casual offices? Yeah. This is one I could probably wear to my office--which has approximately 0 dress code rules except "please wear clothes"--but others might have a difficult time. There are ways to take this outfit though and use it for inspiration. Mainly: that floral bomber jacket. I really want one, although I feel like maaaaybe it's a little bit too young for a 28-year-old mother. That being said, a floral bomber jacket paired with a sheath dress and some boots would be perfect for any office. Or even over jeans and a nice blouse on casual Friday. 

3. Light & Bright

Casual by regettacanoe featuring a liquid eye-liner

Winter is dragging, isn't it? It snowed yesterday here in Oregon. Snowed! That's why I included this outfit, although please ignore those absolutely heinous shoes. A clean, crisp yellow knitted sweater with a chic white pant (or white jeans, if you err on the side of caution when it comes to white) and some nude heels is as summery as it gets--even in the office. Again, if you work in a stricter office, top with a blazer (a black or gray blazer would be amazing, or even navy if you want to work a more retro vibe). 

4. Layers to Love

Work wear Layering ! by arohii featuring a shirt top

This is a Very Winter outfit, because, again, winter is really dragging itself out the door at this point. I love brightly colored pants and these maroon ones are so, so cute. Paired with a cozy, knit sweater, over a collared shirt, and paired with heels, it's cute and creative, while still being warm. 

5. Look Forward to Summer

Summer Work Wear - Shirt Dress by beebeely-look featuring parker pens

If nothing else, we have summer to look forward too, right? I find summer a very difficult season to dress professionally in. It's hot! It's sweaty! The air conditioner always breaks in every single office everywhere. I love this simple dress--topped with a denim jacket or a light sweater in the summer, it's perfect for the office, especially when paired with some strappy brown sandals. 

5 Polyvore Sets for Valentine’s Day Inspiration

Valentine’s Day is almost here. Here’s the thing: I love Valentine’s Day. I love the color scheme. I love the kitschy vibe. I love the candy. 

I don’t care if you think it is commercialized as hell. (I mean, you’re totally right.) I enjoy it regardless. Me and my closest thousands of friends. If you need more information regarding this, please see this tweet.

Alright, now that that’s out of the way, let’s talk what we’re going to wear. I picked 5 Polyvore sets to help us get in the mood for Valentine’s Day fashion. Let’s check it out! 

1. If you love sticking to the theme

The Valentine Effect by prettyorchid22 featuring a bone china

Classic Valentine’s Day theme: red and white everything. I’ve seen some super cute graphic print tops and sweaters lately (like this one from the GAP or this one from Torrid), as well as some white hot red skirts (like this one from Forever 21). Add some cute red shoes & Valentine’s Day-themed accessories and you’ve got one super Instagrammable outfit. Seriously, take a photo. 

2. If You Hate Red

Ten Twenty Six by monmondefou featuring loafer shoes

“Valentine’s Day is great. Except I hate red.” Sound familiar? That’s you. Or maybe you just love this outfit as much as I do. Ok, it’s not Valentine-y in the slightly. But it’s cute. It’s comfortable. And you’ll stay warm in it. (Is it as cold where you are as it is here in Oregon? Brrr!) Pair a classic preppy striped sweater with your favorite jeans, some cute loafers, and a killer coat for a Valentine’s Day outfit that says, “Fall in love with me because I’m always chic.” 

3. If you’re a little vintage 

Chic Style by pokadoll featuring a collarless jacket

You think outside the box. That’s for sure. Pair a cute, classic floral print dress (I love this one with a Peter Pan collar or this one) with an interesting, structured jacket, cute loafers, and fun accessories. You’ll be anything by boring. 

4. If you work from home

stuck in her daydream by thosewhowonderarenotalwayslost featuring a flower stem

“But I don’t leave the house! Most of the time…” you think, as you scroll through these outfits. Hey, fellow bloggers, this outfit is for you. You’ll notice it’s also definitely not stereotypically Valentine-y either. But I think it’s plenty romantic. Pair your favorite jeans with a romantic sweater (the one picture is sold out, but I like this one from Nordstrom Rack too) and a comfy scarf, as well as some super cute booties. You’ll look perfectly romantic & perfectly put together—without being too frilly for getting everything done. 

5. If you love pink 

Happy Valentine's Day! by tallybow featuring ballet flats

Pink isn’t everyone’s favorite color. But I’m betting it is yours. This outfit is for the girl who loves pink. A pink dress is a pretty standard wardrobe staple (and you can wear them hundreds of ways). I like this ribbed knit dress from Forever 21 and this peach number from Lulu’s for a fancier evening. Pair with flats and a cute jacket (I love this floral print bomber jacket) for a day out with friends… or just another day at the office.