What I’m Wearing: Grey Denim

November 10, 2023

I have a confession to make: I’m a denim addict.

My latest obsession is this pair of J Brand jeans that I luck-fully scooped up at Nordstrom Rack for $17. (…Yeah, really!) I almost passed ’em up, being initially uncertain whether or not they’d be very versatile, but au contraire! This universally chic shade is a trendy alternative to your basic blues and a must-have in my closet.

Grey jeans come in a variety of washes, from charcoal to graphite to washed-out heather, like I’m wearing here. Though they’re grouped with the likes of black and white as a classic color, in denim, their claim to fame is an edgy kind of unconventionalism.

You can style them multiple ways: from smartly androgynous (think genderless basics: blazer, jeans, oxfords) to casually chic (with a pink blouse or basic white T-shirt).

Wearing: Jeans, J Brand (similar) / Top, Old Navy (I wore it earlier this week, too) /

Tank, Anthropologie / Ring, H&M / Shoes, Tory Burch (also worn here)

If you’re up for trying this trend and are not feeling completely daring, give darker shades a go - they tend to be more forgiving and flattering. If you’re feeling bold or nostalgic for sunshine and a crisp white pair of jeans, go for the lighter shades!

As with all denim, the possibilities are endless! Just remember to consider the cut: If you want a relaxed, casual look, pull on a pair of boyfriend or bootcut jeans. A straight-leg is always classic, and skinny styles tend to work best on us petite gals.

Don’t the trees look amazing? There are a few lingering signs of summer here in Chicago, so I’m taking full advantage before open-toe shoe season (sans tights) is officially over.

Okay, let’s browse! Do you own colored jeans? How do you style them? Here are some of my favorite styles as of late:

Shop (top): All Saints / True Religion / J Brand / Victoria Beckham

(bottom) Topshop / Citizens of Humanity / Old Navy / True Religion

Almost the weekend!

What I’m Wearing: Lace-Up Leopard Espadrilles

October 5, 2023

From zig-zagging zebra print to moc-croc and subtle snakeskin, there are so many animal print patterns roaming the style scene this year.

I thought long and hard about how to dress up my duds for the latest Bloggers Do It Better challenge… Go wild (ahem) in mixing patterns? Play for Team Minimal and safely pair them with solid pieces?

Truth, my favorite favorite way to wear this trend is in mass quantities; unfortunately, that doesn’t quite translate to “style statement” among the corporate crowd, so I tend to settle for showing off my animal instincts through bold footwear.

What I’m Wearing: Anthro Blouse (similar) /Sparkle & Fade Mini ($34!) / Schutz Espadrilles (on sale via Gilt Groupe) / Michael Kors Crystal Analog Watch

If you’re struggling with ways to wear your animal prints, here are three of my favorite fashion guidelines:

Incorporate complementary patterns, like a polka dot blouse and leopard print shoes.
Book-end the look with similarly-hued neutrals. Think black- and cream-colored pieces to complement leopard spots for a classic look. Easy!
A pop of red never fails.

While animal prints seem to drift in and out of “high fashion” each year, they’ll always be a modern classic in my closet. Bags, belts, shoes and scarves are the easiest way to ease this trend into your daily ensemble. I bet you couldn’t guess what form animal print monopolizes in my closet…

1 ($29!) / 2 / 3 / 4 / 5 / 6

For a more daring approach, give outwear (this faux fur jacket, perhaps?), hats and accessories a shot. Whatever you’re comfortable with, both options are sure to increase your style quotient.

Click here to see more Bloggers Doin’ It Better.

In the Mood for Monochromatic / Casual Friday

September 2, 2023

There’s no stone-set style rule that says you have to bucket every single piece of your outfit into this trend. So if all else fails, do it with denim!

Gold and emerald accessories lend a touch of elegance to an otherwise laid-back ensemble. Perfect for casual Friday!

See? It’s really that simple. It’s a bit tame compared to the other ways we’ve rocked this trend this week, but if you’re more of a test-the-waters type of gal (or guy), this is an easy way to do it.

So, what’s your favorite look from this week? Check back next Tuesday for a monochromatic fashion challenge recap. Happy holiday weekend! -H

Don’t forget to e-mail me your photos! Have you incorporated one of my weekly fashion themes into your wardrobe regime? Snap some pics and e-mail them to hallie@coralsandcognacs.com with a blurb about you, your look and a link to your blog (if you have one)!