If you've been reading my blog for awhile then you know putting together outfits brings me immeasurable amounts of joy. When I discovered that joy several years ago I struggled with the question of whether fashion as a hobby and creative outlet was as "worthy" as other hobbies? Because truly we do not judge someone for spending money on their favorite sporting events, painting their face elaborately, and wearing team colors in the same way. (Or for owning a huge collection of foods as a home chef, or fill in the blank with any number of hobbies...) I may not understand these joys the way I understand my own, but I am committed to respecting them, because I ask for that same respect myself. Some may see a bright (potentially over-the-top) outfit of blue, yellow and pink on the surface and that's it. Or it may seem "ridiculous" (as one man recently stated on my FB page) to be concerning ourselves with outfits and color combos. But I stand by my joy for personal style and see it as worthy of a hobby as any other. "There is absolutely nothing wrong with a woman spending $ responsibly on something that brings her joy," I said in response, and yes, that includes fashion or whatever hobby you favor!

[ps. For further reading on this topic, check out my book, coming Oct. 3. I think that for many women, personal expression through style is so much more than skin deep.]

Top: boutique c/o, $29 (similar below)
Skirt: J.Crew c/o thredUP, $28 (similar below)
Shoes: Nine West c/o Amazon, $66
Purse: Vince Camuto c/o Off 5th, $70 (similar below)
Earrings: Kendra Scott c/o Amazon, $36 (similar)
Approx. dates: Necklace is 5 years ago. Purse and top are 1 year ago. Shoes and earrings are 6 months ago. Skirt is recent.