The FAIR-est Sweater of Them All

One of my favorite aspects of fall and winter fashion is layering and texture. I love to pair sweaters with buttons ups, socks with tights, and pick the perfect coat to layer over my outfit.

Sweaters and button ups are my one of my favorite combos, and while shopping this weekend in St. Louis, I noticed a fair (no pun intended) amount of fair isle sweaters on display.

Fair Isle sweaters are nothing new to the fashion world. The knitting technique originated in Scotland in the early 20th century. They have been worn by women and men alike over the past century, but all of a sudden they seem to have resurged in popularity.

I myself do not have a fair isle sweater in my closet, but I'm currently on the hunt. I would style mine over a denim button up with navy cords and bean boots, or wear it with a wool skirt and tights for more dressy events. 

Here's some fair isle style to get you inspired:

The whole family sports fair isle on Land's End's homepage

Sarah Vickers and company sport fair isle on her blog

Carly Heitlinger dons a sweater while out and about in NYC

Skiers wear fair isle in an old photo

Fair Isle on the runway a few seasons ago at Dolce & Gabbana

Here are some sweaters I'm currently coveting. Hopefully I can swipe one of these at a Cyber Monday sale. Who's with me?

Top Row (L-R)

Boden

Brooks Brothers

The Limited

Old Navy

Bottom Row (L-R)

Land's End

J.Crew

Forever 21

Talbots

Do you own a fair isle sweater? How do you style it?

Stay Stylish. Stay Classy. Be Creative.

Emily

Dressing for Thanksgiving Dinner

Just five more days of classes until I get to head back home to see my family and celebrate Thanksgiving. I can't wait!

I'm obviously excited for the food and seeing my family and high school friends. It will be so great to have a week off of school. Things have been pretty busy lately!

Besides thinking about my parents' Thanksgiving cooking, I've also been thinking about Thanksgiving outfits. I always like to put a cute but comfy little outfit together for Thanksgiving Day. Sure, I don't leave my house, and I could wear a sweatshirt and sweatpants, but it's nice to get dressed up for the holiday, don't you think? 

Here's some outfits I've worn in past years:

2012

J.Crew Perfect Shirt (similar here)

Ralph Lauren Vest (Thrifted!) 

American Eagle Skirt

J.Crew Belt

Ralph Lauren Boots (similar here)

2011

The Limited Sweater

Old Navy T-shirt

Talbots Belt

Easy Money Jeans

Depending upon your family's tradition, you might need a cute dress for a more formal dinner, or a flannel and cords for a comfy family affair. I've compiled a few looks to help you get started on planning your Thanksgiving outfit!

Casual

Blouse

Vest

Cords

Loafers

Pearls

Cute

Blouse

Skirt

Boots

Scarf

Dressy

Dress

Necklace

Shoes

What do you usually wear on Thanksgiving? Have you given thought to this year's outfit?

Stay Stylish. Stay Classy. Be Creative.

Emily

Giving Talbots Credit

Talbots. 

The word might make the fashion conscious shudder, especially those under the age of 25. Images of matronly sweater sets, too-long skirts, over-conservative pantsuits, and dull colors may come to mind.

You may want to think again.

The retailer has revamped its image over the past few seasons. Although the conservative middle age set can still find their staple sweater sets and business suits, Talbots also caters to a more youthful crowd. Bright colors have made an appearance, as well as more updated silhouettes. Fun patterns sprinkle scarves, blouses, and vests, and the jewelry has received a makeover as well.

My mother, a devoted Talbots shopper, quit shopping at the retailer a few years back. She was sick of the selection and the bland offerings. However, over the past year or so, she has gotten back on the Talbots bandwagon. I've tagged along with her to our local Talbots the past few times, and I've been very pleased with what I've seen.

The new offerings transcend age groups. The styles are classic yet current, and many of the pieces would be appropriate for a 20-something woman, but would look just as great on her mother. I'm very pleased with the way Talbots has re-invented itself. I don't think it receives enough recognition for what it offers. It gets overshadowed by bigger name retailers such as Gap and J.Crew.

If you haven't set foot in a Talbots store in a while (or at all), I recommend you pop in on your next shopping trip. You'll be happy you did!

I've compiled some of my favorites from the current collection. I hope this inspires you to set foot in a Talbots and bring a bunch of clothes to the dressing room!

1. Sweater

Who doesn't love cashmere? I'm usually not a fan of turtlenecks, but I love the color blocking on this one! I think it would be super cute with navy cords or jeans, or make it a little dressier by pairing it with a wool navy mini and tights.

2. Coat

It's no secret I have a major coat addiction. I don't have a red one in my collection yet, so this may have to be my next purchase. The leather-buckle toggles add such personality!

3. Tote

This quilted tote will fit a 13" laptop, so it's perfect for the office or around campus. I think I love it so much because it's Mizzou gold! Also comes in navy or black.

4. Houndstooth Pants

I love ankle pants more than anything. They flatter me way better than regular length slacks. So cute paired with loafers, heels, or riding boots. The houndstooth is a perfect pattern for fall, and paired with a crisp blouse and blazer, is a perfect business casual outfit.

5. Boot Socks

What's better than the perfect pair of riding boots? Fun boot socks, of course! I love wearing colorful patterned socks under my riding boots. The color blocking on this pair is super fun!

6. Plaid Heels

These heels are so festive and perfect for the holidays! They aren't too high, so they are perfect from transitioning from the office to a holiday party. I'd pair them with a black pencil skirt, a white blouse, and a red pashmina. 

7. Silk Scarf

Talbots has always designed beautiful silk scarves. This equestrian-themed one is no exception. Pair it with your favorite wool peacoat, or tie it on your tote bag for some extra pizazz. 

8. Bow Belt

Cute belts can really spice up an otherwise plain outfit. The gold bow detail on this belt definitely makes a statement (in a good way). Pair it with your favorite jeans and a T-shirt, or belt your newest sweater dress.

Have you shopped at Talbots lately? What do you think of their revamped designs?

Stay Stylish. Stay Classy. Be Creative.

Emily

The Versatility of the Vest

Dressing for the weather here in Missouri can sometimes prove to be a bit of a challenge. When I check the weather before I leave my dorm, it's 35 degrees, but by mid afternoon it's near 60.

I'm definitely not complaining about the beautiful weather! I love the sunshine and I would rather the cold temperatures of winter continue to hold off.

What's a girl to do to avoid freezing on the way to class in the morning, but not be sweating by the time she gets back to her dorm in the afternoon?

Enter the vest.

There are so many different types of vests, and they can be dressed up or down. I love layering mine over button ups, cable knit sweaters, or knit shirts. They are also great over sweatshirts for lazy days, or underneath heavier coats for extra warmth. I've been wearing mine under my raincoat this week for extra protection against the fall chill.

I've provided a few of my favorite vest choices, and my suggestions for what types of shirts to pair them with. I hope the vest can help you dress for the temperatures wherever you may be!

VESTS:

TOP ROW (L-R)

Pink Quilted

I love the bright pink color of this quilted vest! I think it would be perfect over a navy cable-knit sweater paired with jeans, or wear it with a denim button up with a pair of black leggings.

Red Puffer

This vest is thicker and suited for cooler days. I think this would pair well with your favorite sweatshirt and jeans for a day in the library, or with a knit shirt and a corduroy skirt and leggings.

Navy Riding

I'm such a sucker for anything navy, so of course I had to include my favorite hue in the selection. This quilted riding vest would look so cute layered over a plaid flannel shirt, or work just as well with your favorite chunky knit sweater.

Blackwatch Plaid

How fun is this plaid vest from Talbots? I would wear this with a denim popover or over a black cardigan and white tank. Another option would be to wear this over a comfy black knit dress with leggings.

BOTTOM ROW (L-R)

Striped

Who doesn't want one of J.Crew's famed excursion vests. Exactly. I love how they paired it with a denim jacket and a skirt, but this vest would look great with a pink shirt or sweater and a denim skirt and leggings.

Monogrammed Fleece

Fleece vests are a less bulky option and perfect for layering! I would wear this monogrammed version with my comfiest black leggings, riding boots, and a plaid button down. Perfect for an early morning class when you want to be comfortable but cute.

Re-Tool

I'm already a huge fan of Patagonia's Re-Tool snap tees, so I was excited when I found out they make a vest version! I would throw this cozy piece on over my softest knit tee shirt for a day of studying in the library.

Sporty

This sleek black vest is perfect for your active pursuits! Perfect for runs or bike rides outside. I would throw this on over my favorite dri-fit long sleeve T-shirt.

What kind of vests do you own? How do you wear them? 

Stay Stylish, Stay Classy, Be Creative.

Emily

Homecoming @ Mizzou

This past weekend, The University of Missouri celebrated its 102nd Homecoming. I had such a fun time taking part in all to the weekend's festivities and participating in my first college homecoming. Homecoming was founded at Mizzou, so the weekend was filled with tons of pride and tradition.


FRIDAY: Campus Decorations

Each fall semester, all of the sorority houses on campus get "married"to a fraternity house and work on Homecoming activities together. These activities include building a float, designing a banner, and assembling pomp boards. The houses put many hours of work into their displays, and freshman pledges typically have assigned "pomping hours." Pomping consists of rolling bits of tissue paper around a marker, and gluing the bits of paper to plywood. It eventually forms an intricate design.

The theme for homecoming this year was "Great American Cities." Each Greek pairing picked a city and designed their boards, floats, and banner according to the theme. All of their hard work is showcased on the Friday night before Homecoming during campus decorations. Greek Town is filled with community members, students, and families who come to see what the Greeks have been designing for the past two months. Included with each display are skits and music. It's definitely a scene and it was amazing to see all of the intricate pomped designs. My friends and I walked around Greek Town to see all of the decorations. We had a great time!

Tri Sigma chose San Francisco. All of those houses are pomped. So intricate!

Independence Hall

It was so fun walking around to see all the decorations with these girls!

SATURDAY: The Parade and Football Game

On Saturday morning, my friends and I walked to the center of campus to watch the Homecoming parade. It was a beautiful morning and it wasn't too cold. We found a spot on the curb along Hitt Street.  Marching Mizzou, Greek pairings, residence halls, sports teams, and community organizations participated in the parade. It was fun to see the floats and decorations (and get candy!) The parade was a great representation of how much spirit and tradition is alive at Mizzou. 

Sitting along the parade route

Our mascot, Truman

Monster Truck School Bus

Chi Omega's Orlando themed float

Later on Saturday afternoon, a few of my friends and I went to a tailgate before the football game. One of the professors who facilitates our freshman interest group was kind enough to host us. He and his wife prepared quite the spread, including BBQ pork, pasta salad, fresh fruit, and delicious cookies and brownies. It was such a treat! I hadn't tailgated before a Mizzou game before, so it was great to be able to finally participate in the tradition! 

Natasha, Katie, and I at the tailgate

Sam and I showing off the Miz Homecoming T-Shirt

My Peer Advisor, Kara. She's great!

In case you didn't already hear, we lost our Homecoming game, and it ruined our undefeated record. However, the game was still a lot of fun! The stadium was sold out and the energy was amazing. The alumni band made and appearance alongside Marching Mizzou, and there was also a group of alumni cheerleaders. The homecoming court was introduced at halftime and the homecoming king and queen were crowned. The game went really well until the third quarter, but then our team lost momentum. We ended up losing in double overtime due to a missed field goal. Very disappointing, but I still love my Tigers! We are going to come back this weekend and beat Tennessee!

Hannie and I at the game. So lucky to have her here with me!

M-I-Z-Z-O-U

I love this University more than anything. I truly feel at home here and like I belong. Mizzou has more than 30,000 students, but it is traditions like Homecoming that bring us all together as one. The tradition and sense of pride is so alive here. I love my school, and celebrating my first homecoming was a blast!

Has your school celebrated homecoming yet?

Stay Stylish, Stay Classy, Be Creative

Emily

Home

This past weekend, I made my first trip home since moving to Mizzou.

I originally had not planned on going home before Thanksgiving, but my friend Hanna was headed back home, so I decided to ride with her. I'm so glad I did!

The drive from Columbia to Bloomington was beautiful. The leaves had begun to change, and the combination of the rolling hills, limestone road cuts, and corn fields was a stunning sight. We drove through small Missouri towns, and there were several stands and farmers markets set up selling pumpkins and fall decorations. It was so festive, and a great time to just slow down and appreciate the beautiful world we live in. 

I got a bit nervous as we approached Bloomington. I hadn't been back to my house in two months, the longest I have ever been away. Would things be the same? Would it feel weird? All of these thoughts crossed my mind as we exited the interstate and drove into Bloomington.

As we drove to my house, I noticed some differences. A Taco Bell was being constructed a few blocks from where I live, and a new hotel was also being built. Other than that, it was the same old Bloomington I remembered. 

Pulling into my driveway was so exciting! My mom had the fall decorations in the yard, and the trees around our house had begun to change. My mom and dad came out into the driveway to welcome me. My mom even brought Chester, our Norwich Terrier, out to greet me. I was so excited to see that little guy!

I went inside the house to put my luggage in my room. My room seemed so bare. My bed seemed so low to the ground since my bed at school is lofted. Mail that was addressed to me sat on my desk, as well as leftover high school graduation announcements and my AP Scholar certificate. It was weird to see those objects, high school seems so long ago. I went to my bulletin board and found a list of goals I had written my senior year of high school. Very bizarre.

I went downstairs, where my mom had a delicious dinner waiting. She made one of my favorites, Italian Beef. It was so nice to be able to enjoy a dinner around the table with my family. That is one of the things I miss the most about being home. I also miss having access to fresh fruit. Although the food at Mizzou is very good, the fresh fruit is definitely lacking!

After dinner, we gathered in the family room and just relaxed and chatted. It was so enjoyable! I discussed the classes that I would take next semester with my parents, and we talked about what I was planning to do during the summer. After that, I played some board games with my little brother.

On Saturday, I took my brother to a few of his favorite (video game) stores, and I went to TJ Maxx. I don't have a car at school so I don't get to shop! We met Bertie, who was my nanny from the time I was six months old, for lunch. She is like a second mom to me, and it was so good to see her! That afternoon, I took my brother and one of his friends to a corn maze and pumpkin patch. It was the perfect fall day and I enjoyed spending time with my brother.

On Saturday night, my sister Hannah (who was home on fall break from SLU) and I, had some of our high school friends over. Our friend Timmy was home on fall break from The University of Nebraska-Lincoln, and we also invited some of our friends who are seniors in high school. It was so great to just sit and chat and see how everyone was doing.

On Sunday, my sister and my parents and I went to brunch at the country club (one of my absolute favorites!) I enjoyed the delicious food and having another meal with my family. 

We left to go back to Columbia around 2:00 on Sunday. I'll be the first to admit that leaving was hard. I love my new life at Mizzou, but I miss being together with all of my family, especially my sisters. I miss my dog. I miss the comforts of home that everyone takes for granted.

I'm so glad that I took a weekend to go back home. The past few weeks have been busy with midterms and projects, and going home was just the thing I needed. I'm recharged and ready to finish out the semester strong! Our Homecoming is this weekend, so I'm looking forward to all the events that come with it. 

I love my home in Bloomington.

I love my home at Mizzou.

Reunited with my favorite little guy, Chester

The perfect Fall weekend calls for Bean Boots

I took Christopher to his favorite video game store

Going to the corn maze with Christopher was a blast!

Early morning cuddling with Chester

After brunch at the CC. It was great to see one of my sisters! 

How was your first trip home from college? Did it feel weird? What are the comforts of home that you miss most?

Stay Stylish. Stay Classy. Be Creative.

Emily

My Picks for Fall

Cooler temperatures have settled upon Columbia. It's a welcome relief from the heat wave we had been experiencing, and the rain that has come with the cooler temperatures was much needed. It looks like I am going to have to pack away my critter shorts, Jack Rogers, and tank tops relatively quickly (aka have my mother bring me more clothes when she and my Dad come for parents weekend.) I think the cooler weather is here to stay!

I have no complaints! I love dressing in layers, wearing cute and cozy scarves, layering sweaters over buttons ups, pairing fun socks with my riding boots, and choosing from one of the many coats in my collection. I love the presence of thick cable knits, quilted fabric, and dark leather. I can't wait to experiment with some new fall looks!

I decided to pull some cute fall pieces from a few of my favorite stores. It's just a sampling of what I'm coveting for Fall. Bring on the cooler weather!

Gap coat

Boden skirt

Old Navy sweater

Tommy Hilfiger blouse

Banana Republic booties

Kate Spade satchel

Are you as excited for fall as I am? What are some items you can't wait to get your hands on?

Stay Stylish, Stay Classy, Be Creative.

Emily