Today's Everyday Fashion: Bonjour from Paris

I'm baaack!! :-) It was an amazing two weeks traveling in Europe but I am SO happy to be back home and blogging! I'm excited to share all my travel outfits with you, but first have to say - didn't the guest bloggers rock? I hope you enjoyed them, and if you have any suggestions for next time please let me know.

So... about Paris! I spent the first 5 nights there and absolutely loved it! (what's not to like?) I didn't do much (okay, any) shopping but I was enthralled with people watching and took notes on how they dressed. Here's what I learned:

- They dress very similar to NYC. Somewhat somber, with all dark colors and hardly any bright colors.
- Overall, not everyone is dressed amazing like I thought they would be. I would say Paris is on par with NYC style-wise, but then there are these random, amazingly dressed people that would come around the corner and knock your socks off.
- Leggings worn as pants seem to be totally acceptable.
- Two big trends were skull scarves and "H" belts.

I was somewhat unsure about what to pack for this trip (I've never been across the pond), but this outfit was perfect for Paris! The dark colors fit in, it was the right temperature for this wool coat, and the Micheal Kors loafers were comfy enough for walking all day! Stay tuned tomorrow for the rest of my outfits from Paris.

Occasion: Sightseeing in Paris
Jacket: LOFT, $50
Brooch: Banana Republic, $20
Jeans: Gap, $35
Shirt: Express, $30
Belt: H&M, $20
Shoes: Michael Kors c/o Marshall's, $50
Watch: Michael Kors, family gift
Purse: c/o It's in the Bag, $79
Earrings: c/o Pop of Chic, $12

Eiffel Tower love

In front of Montmatre

Overlooking Paris at Montmatre

In front of Notre Dame

Today's Everyday Fashion: Guest Post

This is a guest post while J is away on vacation. Check out Kierra's blog, So Sophisticated 1992!

I recently went to the Rihanna L.O.U.D. tour when it was in my hometown and was totally inspired by all the bright lights, Rihanna's feisty fashion and her immaculately tamed red tresses. When I came across this picture of Rhi Rhi rocking red and leopard print, I knew that I had to recreate the fierce feline look. I added my own twist and recreated a look more appropriate for a casual day filled with navigating across campus to class.

Inspiration photo: Seduction of Fashion

Denim Jacket, $24.99

Dress: Eighty Six via Belk, $20.99

Shoes: Target, $14.99

Bag: Jessica Simpson, $98

Earrings: Charlotte Russe, $6

Bracelets: Rue21, $3

Today's Everyday Fashion: Guest Post

This is a guest post while J is away on vacation. Check out Tanvi's blog, Tanvii.com!

This is one of my favorite dresses. It can perfectly be styled all year around. In this outfit I decided to experiment with bit of a polished-preppy look for fall. What is your favorite dress to wear year-round?

Inspiration photo: Madewell
Jacket: Esprit Outlet ($20) 2008
Dress: Mango ($60) 2009
Shoes: Local Boutique sale ($15) 2010
Socks: Tommy Hilfiger Outlet ($5) 2010
Hairband: Target ($1) 2010

Today's Everyday Fashion: Guest Post

This is a guest post while J is away on vacation. Check out Lacie's blog, Leather and Lace!

Who was it that made up the rule that you can't wear white after Labor Day? Rude. Because a white maxi skirt is so unbelievably and perfectly versatile. And I feel like this skirt is just a good time, like fun is to be had whilst wearing it! I love that it's unexpected yet classic. This look is so boho-hippie-chic I dieeee! It's the perfect outfit for bumming around the Manhattan Beach Pier here in southern California (just don't eat chocolate covered almonds while wearing it like I did because I totally dropped one and it smeared a big embarrassing and suspicious dark brown streak right across the front of my skirt. gahhhahaha!) It's comfortable and so easy to wear...my girl Drew knows how to put an outfit together! Push the limits and break some fashion rules this fall....I promise you'll have fun doing it!

Inspiration photo: People.com
Skirt: Gap, $10
Denim chambray button-up: H&M, $27.50
Belt: Wet Seal, $6
Earrings: Etsy via PixiEGlamouR, $27
Sunglasses: Ann Taylor Loft, $29.50
Sandals (which you can't see): Nectar (local boutique), $20

Today's Everyday Fashion: Guest Post

This is a guest post while J is away on vacation. Check out Brett's blog, Silvergirl!

I love to wear sequins in a casual way and am always looking for new ways to wear them. When I saw this cover, I just knew I had to copy the look. I added the red skinny belt and shoes to give the outfit some pop since I didn't have a brown skinny belt and my top was darker than Heidi's. I also added the silver bangles since my top was silver!

Inspiration photo: Cover of Glamour magazine

Sequin tank: Loft a while back on sale, $40
Jeans: GAP on sale, $42
Shoes: Marshall's, $19.99
Bracelets: set from F21 $8, and a set from Ruche $10
Belt: Michael Kors via Nordstrom Rack, $10
Cocktail ring: Kohl's on sale, $12

Today's Everyday Fashion: Guest Post

This is a guest post while J is away on vacation. Check out Katie's blog, Latte Loves Style!

I found this fabulous military-style fitted blazer by H&M during one of my thrift store trips last spring. When I was coming up with ways to style it, I searched for some inspiration on the internets. This outfit by Ciara was the perfect fit! I love the layered simple necklaces, skinny black pants (I went with black jeggings) and the neutrals of white, grays, and black. The best part was that I had every piece in my closet already!

Inspiration photo: Stylebistro.com
Blazer: H&M via thrifted, $8
Tank: Old Navy, $5
Diamond pendant necklace: Gift
Bird necklace: Local boutique, $4
Jeggings: Thrifted, $3
Boots: Steve Madden via DSW, $45
Bag: Old Navy, $15

Today's Everyday Fashion: Guest Post

This is a guest post while J is away on vacation. Check out Kearstin's blog, kear. is. here.

Being a twin, my sister and I share clothes, shoes and accessories so it is essentially like having two closets! I just have to drive a little bit to get to it! I borrowed this skirt and tried to find a simple yet chic way to wear it and I came across this picture of Lauren Conrad. I love how simple her outfit was so I just jazzed mine up with some accessories. The colors are classic and will transition into fall very nicely!

Inspiration: FabSugar

Occasion: Casual work

Shirt: J. Crew Outlet, $20

Skirt: J.Crew, borrowed from my Twin Sister!

Earrings: Lia Sophia $34

Belt: Charlotte Russe, $3.50 (set of 3)

Bangle: $59

Shoes: ShoeDazzle, $39.95

Today's Everyday Fashion: Guest Post

This is a guest post while J is away on vacation. Everyone give Katie a big warm welcome!

Jean jacket meets silk skirt: I loved the idea of dressing down a silk skirt with a denim jacket. This outfit was for work, so I added some Wedges instead of the flat sneakers. What do you think of the comeback of the jean jacket?

Inspiration photo: Redbook
Occasion: Work
Jean Jacket: Old Navy, $29.99
Tank: LOFT, $5
Skirt: Banana Republic, $13.99
Shoes: Target, $24.99
Bracelets: Forever 21, $6.00
Watch: Michael Kors, $175 (On Sale)
Ring: BCGB Outlet, $9
Necklace: Forever21, $1.50

Today's Everyday Fashion: Guest Post

This is a guest post while J is away on vacation. Check out Tara's blog, Mix and Match Fashion!

I generally am not one to wear the same color from head to toe, but different tones of the same color make it so much more interesting!  Blue is definitely my favorite color, so I'll never pass up any opportunity to wear it! What color do you love enough to wear head to toe?

Inspiration Photo: StyleFrizz.com
Occasion: Work
Tee: Ann Taylor, $28
Cardigan: Banana Republic Factory Store, $13
Skirt: The Limited, $32
Shoes: Steve Madden, $45

Today's Everyday Fashion: Guest Post

This is a guest post while J is away on vacation. Check out Michelle's blog at The PinQue Blog! 

Sometimes you find inspiration in the quirkiest of places, like your college football colors. Who says orange and purple don't go together? When I saw this orange and white dress with purple tights in a Lucky magazine article, I knew I had to recreate the look with my orange and white BR dress! Plus, since I am a huge Clemson Tiger fan (and grad!) this look was perfect for a football game. Go Tigers!

Who is your favorite college football team and would you wear their colors together?

Inspiration photo: Lucky Magazine Ad

Occasion: Clemson Football game
Dress: Banana Republic, on sale
Trench: Banana Republic Outlet, $70
Heels: Old Navy, $15

Sunglasses: Coach, gift from Mom

Tights: HUE, $10

Today's Everyday Fashion: Guest Post

This is a guest post while J is away on vacation. Check out Megan's blog, The Frugalista Diaries!

This summer I'm living in my maxi dresses, however, occasionally I'll run out of ideas for dress pairings and will get a little creative. This time I opted to (temporarily) turn my favorite maxi dress into a skirt and pair it with a v-neck tee to achieve a look similar to fellow 'bohemian' Mary Kate. Are you following the maxi trend this season?

Inspiration photo: College Fashion
Occasion: Casual Friday
Shirt: Old Navy, $5
Dress worn as skirt: Target, $17
Shoes: Vince Camuto via Swirl, $60
Bag: Old Navy, $13
Jewelry: Vintage
Sunglasses: Old Navy, $5

Today's Everyday Fashion: Guest Post

This is a guest post while J is away on vacation. Check out Ty's blog, Words and Wardrobes!

I was dying over this $325 DVF shirt dress last fall (left) but because it's out of my budget, I re-created the look for only $20 ($5 for the skirt and $15 for the shirt). I accessorized with shoes ($30), a vintage bag ($2), earrings ($1), a chunky wooden bracelet ($10), and a ring ($4)!

Inspiration photo: DVF
Skirt: Goodwill
Top: Warchild Vintage via Etsy
Shoes: Urban Original
Handbag: Vintage
Ring: Forever 21
Bracelet: Mall accessories store
Earrings: Gold Beauty Supply
Aviators: Payless

Today's Everyday Fashion: Guest Post

This is a guest post while J is away on vacation. Check out Amanda's blog, Something Old, Something New!

I wore this same nautical striped top with a denim skirt in the spring. I think it transitions well into fall when paired with on-trend bell bottoms.  I found these designer brand jeans at a consinment store for $25! Would you rock 70's-style bell bottom jeans?

Shirt: Forever 21 tunic via The Fairy Circle consignment shop, $7

Jeans: Paper Denim & Cloth via Fairy Circle consignment, $25

Belt: Vintage gold chain via thrift store, $2

Wedges: Pink Studio via Fairy Circle, $12

Purse: Vintage Louis Vuitton speedy gifted to me (was my Mom's from the late 70s/early 80s)

Today's Everyday Fashion: Guest Post

This is a guest post while J is away on vacation. Check out Kelly's blog, Kelly Bourland Style!

I had been looking for some red jeans for the fall, and found these fuchsia ones on the clearance rack at TJ Maxx the other day. I thought they would be a fun alternative, and when I saw this outfit in the fall J. Crew lookbook, I was inspired. What denim colors would you dare to wear?

Inspiration photo: J.Crew

Blazer: New York and Co via ebay, $7.99

Striped tank: Burlington Coat Factory, $9.99

Fuchsia Jeans: TJ Maxx, $19.99

Leopard pumps: Garage sale, $3

Gold Watch: eBay, $16.99

Gold bangle bracelets: Gift from mother-in-law

Today's Everyday Fashion: Guest Post

This is a guest post while J is away on vacation. Check out Sharon's blog, The Fashion-isha!

This is me at my cousin's wedding. I am a modest fashion blogger and I love the challenge of looking both divine and refined. I was inspired by the flattering asymmetrical styling of a wrap dress and the super chic combo of black and beige. What do you think about this for a modest wedding look?

Inspiration photo: DVF
Dress: Karen Millen, $198
Taupe T-shirt: Kiki Riki, $16
Gold watch: Michael Kors, $250
Beaded Ring: Charlotte Russe, $5
Shoes: Forever 21, $25

Today's Everyday Fashion: Guest Post

This is a guest post while J is away on vacation. Everyone give Caitlin a big warm welcome!

I immediately loved the yellow and red combination Michelle Obama is wearing. The cardigan/dress is a classic style, and I really like the idea of a clear belt; it cinches the waist without adding more color. Since I don't have one in my closet, I tried the outfit with a gray belt and shoes. White, black, and brown would also very easily go with the outfit. It was very comfortable, versatile, fun to wear, and it is a good transition from summer to fall. I wore it while on vacation in Italy, however one could wear it to work, dinner, church, etc. - it's a really versatile look!

Inspiration photo: O Magazine

Occasion: Vacation, work, dinner, church

Cardigan: The Limited (birthday gift)

Dress: Promod €40

Belt: C&A €20

Shoes: New Look £20

Bracelets: Bijou Brigitte €5

(*These prices are European because Caitlin lives in Germany!)

Today's Everyday Fashion: Long Day of Travel

Navy/gray/black

This is the first time that I have ever worn leggings (and that includes the 80's). What motivated me to finally get on board with this trend? One veryyyyy long night/day of travel. It occurred to me that leggings and a tunic are essentially pajamas and would be the most comfy thing to sleep in. Add a wool coat and some boots though and you are decent for public. It's kind of an amazing when you think about it (I know, I know, I'm like the last person on earth to realize this). So where am I going in this comfy outfit? Mum is the word until I get back, but let's just say I will be wearing boots and coats the whole time and plan to share all 15 outfits with you when I return! In the meantime, I've arranged for 16 lovely ladies to blog in my place. Hope you enjoy their adorable outfits and blogs, and I'll see you in a couple weeks! Au revoir! xoxo, J.  ps. Please excuse my hair and lack of jewelry in the photo. I promise to be more presentable the next time you see me. ;-)

Occasion: Long day of travel
Navy Jacket: LOFT, $50
Brooch: Banana Republic, $20
Gray Dress: c/o LaMixx, $35 (also seen here)
Black Leggings: Victoria's Secret c/o MJR Sales, $4
Boots: Bakers, $90
Purse: c/o It's in the Bag, $79

ps. I really need your help with this. I've been considering going back to work full-time, but with your help I can win $100k in this contest, which means at least two more years of blogging and freelancing. :-) You can vote once a day between now and October 31! Go here to vote. Thank you!!

Today's Everyday Fashion: Watermelon Girl

I love watermelon colors together (coral + lime green) and today's outfit was inspired by just that! Blake Lively is rocking that combo in her Gossip Girl outfit and looks absolutely adorable. I tried a similar combo (printed shirt, orange necklace, green purse) for a day of errands earlier this week and here's how I did it. I especially loved the idea to pair this busy necklace with a printed shirt - probably something I never would have thought of on my own! :-) Do you wear watermelon colors?

Inspiration photo: Gossip Girl via FabSugar
Shirt: LOFT, $20
Shorts: Gap, $22
Shoes: Steve Madden Riddgge c/o MJR Sales, $40
Necklace: ebay c/o ShopItLA, $35
Purse: c/o It's in the Bag, $42
Watch: Michael Kors, family gift
Bracelets: Forever 21, $8

Today's Everyday Fashion: The Red Skirt

What is it about red and denim that is so preppy and American? I recently featured this red skirt in my Fall 2011 Shopping Guide, and then was lucky enough to stumble upon the same skirt on MJR Sales for only $17! I balanced out the tight-fitting bottom by wearing it with a loose and boyish top. I love that it makes my straight as a board body look like I have J.Lo curves. :-) The material is very stretchy, which can make it hard to tuck in a shirt like this without it showing through, but I like that it's soft and comfy and it fits true to size (I got a 2, but I think a 4 also could have worked). Red is one of my favorite colors for fall so I have a feeling I will be posting with it often!

Shirt: Gap, $14
Belt: Gap, $40
Skirt: Victoria's Secret c/o MJR Sales, $17
Shoes: Restricted via Endless, $40
Watch: Michael Kors, family gift
Bracelet: Forever 21, $8
Earrings: c/o Mikel Maia

Today's Everyday Fashion: Striped Shirt, 5 Ways

I love the mod 60's feel of this inspiration photo! I instantly wanted to do a fun work look with purple, black and white and this is what I came up with. (Style note: I like that the shirt is ivory and the jacket is white, but my gold watch and silver necklace are bugging me a little bit. :-p) It's not yet Friday, but I decided to kick off TGIF a day early and show some other ways I've worn this striped shirt! Which look is your favorite?

Inspiration photo: Alice + Olivia
Blazer: Victoria's Secret c/o MJR Sales, $35
Shirt: TJ Maxx, $15
Skirt: Limited, $35
Necklace: My Stella & Dot website
Shoes: Steve Madden via Ross, $20

Other ways I wore it