How To: Achieve the Madewell Look With Your Existing Wardrobe

While thumbing through the latest Madewell catalog, I loved every piece, every outfit and styling choice. The store sums up my personal style in a nutshell: simple.classic.vintage.chic (at least that's what I strive for). Another thing occurred to me though, I had a lot of very similar pieces in my closet. It was just a matter of piecing them together to create the "madewell look". Here was my process.
 *Sidenote: Most items seen are thrifted and were less than $5, which I couldn't be more proud of.*

Start with pulling out oxford shirts, button-downs, cardigans and sweaters. Move onto bottoms. Pull out khakis, boyfriend and skinny jeans, and jean shorts. Use the catalog as a guide as you sift through your own closet.

 

Madewell has a big selection of silk tops with bright spring colors and patterns. In my own closet, I had collected several while thrifting (all under $5). Remember to cuff up sleeves, tie front knots and make small alterations to keep it on trend and less boxy.

Layer pieces together:

Sweaters over button-ups. Denim shirts over printed dresses.

Tuck bib necklaces under a collar too.

Don't forget the shoes.

Oxfords, Toms, Keds style (thrifted) & patent leather flats

 

Add on finishing touches with printed scarves,

 long pendant necklaces, 

& bib necklaces

Day for a Giveaway

Today, I'm happy to announce a giveaway from Penelope G, the Etsy shop and the sweet, self-taught designer behind the jewelry, both of the same name. As soon as I came across her pieces, I was instantly drawn to the necklaces and earrings with their individual dangling crystals and beads. Whether it's the gold or silver option, paired with a white tee and jeans or strapless cocktail dress, all her pieces are beautifully made and wrapped with love. Here's some picks that make my top 5, because I'm not sure I'd be able to narrow it down more than that.

So here's where the fun part comes in. The winner gets to choose what item they will receive out of her entire shop! Make a stop over at Penelope's shop here and decide on which necklace, pair of earrings or bracelet you'd love to have. Leave a comment explaining which item you have narrowed it down to and your email address by June 11th 8pm Pacific Time. For additional entries, you can twitter about the giveaway or mention it on your blog. Just make sure you leave me an additional comment explaining that you have done so.

Details of the giveaway go something like this...
1. You have to be a follower of this blog via Google Friend Connect or Bloglovin.
2. This is for U.S and Canadian residents only.
3. Winner will be announced June 14th.

May the Best Man Win

When I don't have the opportunity to hit the flea markets on the weekend or thrift stores during the week, ebay is only a click away. It holds the same thrill of random treasures to be found and endless pieces to search through. A colorful ring, a vintage designer dress, they're all up for grabs. One winning bid and it could be yours, that is...unless I outbid you.

vintage pearl necklace

crystal and charmed necklace

green glass ring  & perfume rings (set of 3)

Yves Saint Laurent printed dress

pleated white dress

Tulip dress

Baubles, Bangles, and Beads

The jewelry boxes atop my dresser had gotten completely out of hand and disheveled. Sadly, the baubles and beads get little attention once they are removed after a day's use. Necklaces were knotted together, rings were lost in unknown crevices, and random earrings needed to find their other halves. So yesterday, I embarked on a little jewelry spring cleaning. The looming mess of a closet can wait for another day. Baby steps people, baby steps. For now, I bask in my day-old organization and pray it lasts.