Dress || Heels || Clutch || Necklace || Bracelet || Earrings

This romantic white midi-dress, from WAYF just goes hand-in-hand with the gorgeous backdrop that is the Upper East Side. The first time I showcased it was all the way back in August to talk about the souvenirs I picked up while in Italy, but I don’t think I really talked about how important this dress is to me. It was also the dress I wore for my wedding rehearsal and it will always have a special place in my heart. Currently, this little number is tucked away in my carry-on, ready to join me on my next adventure.

I love everything about this dress! The flowing skirt, v-neck, and pinched waist all make for a very flattering affair. In fact, I loved this dress so much that I also own it the boldest red and this subtle grey-blue. Each color is better than the last and I really hope more shades will be available in the future.

Sadly, this dress is going and going fast! With a dress that checks so many boxes, I can see why it’s hard for it to stay on the shelves. I have a good feeling that more colors and patterns will available with the new Spring and Summer season. I don’t really have anything to base that on, but I’m calling it wishful thinking!

In the meantime, I’ve linked up some other really great picks to satisfy you white midi-dress fix. While my dress was a bargain at under $70, I’ve included a few different price points and each are prettier than the last. The award for closest pick, for both budget and style, has to go to this dress from English Factory. You get the same plunging neckline and defined waist, but also have a bow detail on the back as a bonus. This pick from Gal Meets Glam is a great option if you are looking for something a little bit more structured and the bows on the sleeves are absolutely darling! If you have some big money to splurge, this dress from Tory Burch is perfect for you!

The beauty of wearing an absolute blank slate is the fact that you can accessorize any way you please! Always loving my neutrals, and being so happy that it’s rattan season again, I opted for my Cult Gaia clutch and nude pointed toe heels from Marc Fisher. Take it or leave it, though, because the possibilities are endless! How would you accessorize?

Love from NYC,
Katie

Navy Blazer || Colorful Striped Tee || White Denim || Tan Heels

While I was observing Lent, I decided to go 40 days without shopping. As someone who loves fashion and runs a style blog, it was a really great challenge. I considered it an opportunity to shop my closet and take a fine look at what I already had. In the process, I decided to make a capsule closet that I think could really speak to a lot of people. When I searched for inspiration, I saw a lot of helpful collections, they just weren’t my style. So, I decided to create my own that gears to ladies who consider navy to be a favorite color, has a wardrobe full of classic pieces, and dress with modesty.

Navy Striped Tee || Tan Ballet Flats

Once you have these pieces, you can have them for life! I’m currently in the process of rounding them all up in a super-easy graphic for you to mix and match. Until then, I’ve snagged some of my favorites from previous posts to give you a sense of what I already have in my life. While a lot of these will work for any season, I decided to focus on Spring and Summer styles, but promise to give updates when we get closet to Fall and Winter.

Athletic Sweatshirt || White Chino Shorts

The challenge of creating a capsule closet is choosing between 12 (if you are particularly dedicated) to 40 items that you can wear and repeat. Since Marie Kondo swept the world by storm with minimalism, the idea has really gained a lot of popularity. Instead of keeping items that ‘spark joy’ though, you need to make sure you pick items that are functional and multi-purpose. It may seem like an easy task, but it’s much easier said than done.

Navy Long-Sleeve Tee || Gingham Pants || Statement Scarf || Espadrille Wedges

Since the entire guide is still under construction, be sure to shop my picks below. As far as price points, I try to keep everything affordable and from easily accessible shops. On a teacher’s salary, I fully understand not wanting to blow a paycheck on your wardrobe. Since items come in and out of stock daily, be sure to stop by often when there are new items. If you have any questions, be sure to reach out and let me know. I would love to help customize your own capsule closet in any way I can.

Love from NYC,
Katie

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Bottoms:

Dresses:

Outerwear:

Shoes:

Jumpsuit || Heels || Clutch || Earrings || Bracelet

Earlier in the week, I shared this absolutely gorgeous red dress that I borrowed from Rent the Runway (here). Ordering from them was a dream and they even sent me two sizes to give me more peace of mind. What I forgot to mention… I was also sent another freebie item, just in case the perfect red dress wasn’t so perfect after all.

Performing a complete 180, I opted for this navy strapless jumpsuit with ornate ruffle detail. I was taking a major risk with this jumpsuit. I mean, I have a very low success rate with anything strapless or wide-leg. Combining the two gave me a huge moment of, “what was I thinking?” as I sent my order. But hey, it was a free add-on (by using the code SOSMART) and I didn’t have much to lose. When I opened up the garment bag that RTR sent, I was met with the prettiest and most flattering item that I’ve ever slipped on. Sometimes those risks we think we’re taking, turn out to be a huge reward.

Sadly, I didn’t have any event to wear my rental jumpsuit to and I only had it for the weekend. What’s a girl to do? As a blogger, that meant waking up at the crack of dawn to take pictures outside of the Guggenheim, only to have my doorman think I was having a walk of shame when I came home. As a normal person, that may also mean going out and being over-dressed for a Sunday morning brunch. Either way, I have zero regrets. So much so that I’m considering making the splurge and buying this jumpsuit to keep all for myself

As far as the entire Rent the Runway experience is concerned, I could not have been happier. Think of it like any other type of online shopping except you have to return the product after either four or eight days. Like I said, my package arrived at lightning speed in a rolled up garment bag with all of my goodies tucked safely inside and already on hangers. They provide the return address label and special clasp that will lock up your bag for its return trip. All you have to do is seal up the garment bag and drop it off at your nearest UPS store. They take care of the rest, including the dry cleaning. Super easy!

You also have the option of returning it in-person at one of their five brick-and-mortar stores. While you’re there, you can even book an appointment to do some shopping. I’m lucky that their flagship store and I are in the same city and I have all of their styles right at my fingertips.

The next time I have an event to shop for, I will 100% use Rent the Runway again, and may even have to see their store for myself.

Love from NYC,
Katie