Moody Style: End of Summer?

Is it feeling like the end of summer to any of you ladies?  Saturday marks the official first day of autumn and it’s still pretty warm here in my neck of the woods.  As many of you know, I live in Florida where it’s extremely warm about 85% of the time.  I’m actually looking forward to the change in seasons and some cooler fall weather.  However, we don’t usually see any hint of autumn until the end of October.  I guess in the meantime I’ll just have to enjoy my extended summer until then.  Are any of you seeing signs of autumn in your hometowns?  If so, what do you miss about the summer season?  I'd love to hear all about it in the comments.

Dress: Old Navy Cap-Sleeve Jersey Dress;

Belt: Banana Republic Patent Skinny Belt;

Necklace: Ann Taylor (old); Bracelet: (old);

Shoes: Ralph Lauren Zabrina Heels

Office Chic No. 3: Pencil Skirts

I started this series a few months ago and nearly abandoned it, but I want to pick up where I left off with my office essentials.  Next on my list of must-haves for the office are pencil skirts.  Pencil skirts are a classic staple that can transition through every season.  These days you can find them in different fabrics, textures, colors, prints and sometimes-even lengths.  Here are 5 great ways to incorporate the pencil skirt into your weekly fashion regimen.

1. Abstract Art and Prints

I love wearing a traditional solid pencil skirt, but I love them even more when the skirt has a graphic or a beautiful print on it.  A printed pencil skirt will grab the attention of just about anyone.  To achieve an office chic look, I would look for a skirt with a large print that makes a bold statement. Adding a neutral blouse and minimal accessories to the look will allow this pencil skirt to be the focal point it was intended be.

2. Pop of Color

The styling possibilities are endless when you pick a solid colored pencil skirt.  Every season there is a new color palette with amazing bold colors that is sure to be a showstopper if it’s styled correctly.  To achieve an office chic look, I would find a color that compliments your skin tone and add a white t-shirt or white button down shirt.  The key here is to find a top that is neutral enough to allow the skirt to shine.

3. Varying Lengths

You can find pencil skirts in varying lengths anywhere from below the knee to the middle of the calf muscle.  These pencil skirts is also known as the midi-pencil skirt, which is a longer version of the traditional pencil skirt.  The longer lengths of the pencil skirt looks great on everyone, but you have to find the right one to avoid looking disproportioned.  To achieve an office chic look, find a midi-pencil skirt with vertical stripes or color blocking with darker colors on top.  I also think that if you decide to wear a longer version of the pencil skirt, then pair it with a pair of pumps or boots with a heel to create the illusion of height.

4. Texture

If you’ve already figured out that you love wearing pencil skirts, then try to play up your look by experimenting with textures. There are some fantastic fabrics and textures slated for the fall season like tweed, wool, leather, corduroy, velvet, snakeskin, brocade, lace, fur and sweater knits.  You can find the right pencil skirt for you no matter what time of year it is.  If your looking for pencil skirts in a warmer climate, look for skirts with breathable fabrics and a little texture, like linen, seersucker, piqué and crochet. To achieve an office chic look, try a little texture mixing. For example, this fall you can pair a tweed or wool blazer with a leather pencil skirt or a chunky knit sweater with a corduroy pencil skirt.

5.  Glitz and Glamour

Sequins in the office don’t work together, right?  Well, there was probably a time when many people would say absolutely not, but today I think some of those same people would say, wrong.  I love the look and feel of a sequin or a beaded embellished pencil skirt.  I personally don’t own either, but it’s next on my list of things to buy.  An embellished pencil skirt is a great investment piece that’s a perfect look from day to night.  To achieve an office chic look, pair the skirt with a tank top or a sweater and add a blazer to complete to look.  For an edgier office look, pair the skirt with a sheer button down shirt and tank top.  Avoid adding fishnet stockings or patterned tights, extremely thick sweaters, and bulky shoes to this skirt because the embellishments makes a statement all by itself.  

Pencil Skirts by moody-girl-in-style featuring a pencil skirt

xoxo Natasha

Moody Style: Spring Has Sprung

I’m very happy that the weather has finally warmed up and it is officially Spring.  However, my allergies feel like they have been under attack for the past month. The pollen this year seems to be the worst that it’s ever been.  I’m an allergy sufferer and I’ve had allergy issues most of my adult life.  My allergies are usually the most active during the spring and fall months.  So, I pretty much know what to expect every year.  During the normal allergy season, I usually take some over the counter medication and then I’m fine.  I’m currently taking 24-hour Allegra, but this year it just doesn’t seem to be getting rid of my symptoms - sneezing, itchy throat, watery eyes, runny nose and sinus pressure.  It’s so bad that earlier this evening, I had to purchase 24-hour Allegra D to help with my severe nasal congestion.  Last night, I felt like I couldn’t breath and I woke up several times to clear my throat and blow my nose.  I don’t know about you all, but I’m already looking forward to the weekend.  I haven’t been able to get much sleep because of my allergies and I just really want to get some rest.  Do any of you have any allergies?  Are there any remedies out there that you find helpful?  I would love to know.

{Shirt: The Limited (old); Skirt: Express Pencil Skirt (old); Belt: Banana Republic

Elastic Belt (old); Earrings: Pearls (gifted); Shoes: Ralph Lauren Zabrina Heels}