Caged

by Laura Perkins

Shirt: American Eagle  ||  Jeans: American Eagle (old, torn DIY) similar  ||  Heels: Marion Parke

Shirt: American Eagle  ||  Jeans: American Eagle (old, torn DIY) similar  ||  Heels: Marion Parke

Shirt: American Eagle  ||  Jeans: American Eagle (old, torn DIY) similar  ||  Heels: Marion Parke

Shirt: American Eagle  ||  Jeans: American Eagle (old, torn DIY ) similar  ||  Heels: Marion Parke

Shirt: American Eagle  ||  Jeans: American Eagle (old, torn DIY ) similar  ||  Heels: Marion Parke

Shirt: American Eagle (old, similar) ||  Jeans: American Eagle (old, torn DIY ) similar  ||  Heels: Marion Parke

Here are two of my recent go-to looks for a casual night out with friends or date with the hubs. The lace up, knotted and cage shirt trend has been really big this year and adds a fun cut-out detail to your neckline. I like to pair these tops with some ripped jeans and heels for that effortless, rocker chic look. These shirts are very comfy with a super soft fabric but also have a really flattering silhouette (fitted up top and in the sleeves but flowy at the bottom with a curved hem to give you extra shape). P.S. This white tee (available in multiple colors) is now only $13.98!!! And with the temperatures still pretty chilly, a long sleeve shirt is a necessity but still breathable enough where you won't start sweating indoors with the heat cranked on. You could also dress this down with some sleek ankle boots (try open toe or mules for spring) or flats. Also both of these pairs of jeans are DIY torn. If you're like me and have a bajillion skinny jeans in your drawer, there's really no need to go out and buy new ripped jeans. Just cut a hole (or two) at the knee. It's really not as scary as it seems. And they will instantly become your new favorite pair.

Transitional Pieces

by Laura Perkins

Hat: Anthropologie (old, similar)  || Sweater: Massimo Dutti (old, similar) 

Sweater: Massimo Dutti (old, similar)  ||  Jacket: Vintage Boutique in Austin, Texas (old, similar style at Urban Outfitters)  ||  Jeans: Urban Outfitters (old, similar - I distressed) *Madewell has a similar distressed pair* 

Sweater: Massimo Dutti (old, similar)  ||  Jacket: Vintage Boutique in Austin, Texas (old, similar style at Urban Outfitters)  ||  Jeans: Urban Outfitters (old, similar - I distressed) *Madewell has a similar distressed pair*  ||  Shoes: Madewell (old, similar)

Spring is around the corner!! And I can't be more excited! But if you're up North like me, you're still having to dress for the winter weather (it snowed the other day in NYC!). Here are two outfit ideas for transitioning into spring. 1) Retire your winter coat and layer a fitted leather jacket over a sweater with ripped skinny jeans. Roll up the bottom of your jeans in anticipation for somewhat warmer weather and pair with sleek ankle boots 2) Throw on a floppy hat to keep your head warm and add a pop of color. Style with your favorite textured knit. By the way, if you guys aren't familiar with Massimo Dutti (where I got this sweater), you need to check it out! It's a sister store to Zara and has beautiful clothing made in Turkey!

Okay, okay....you got me! If you didn't already notice from the leaves on the ground...yes, these pictures were taken in the fall. But I am currently wearing this outfit and think it's perfect for transitioning into fall or spring!

Beauty Tip: As a New Yorker, I know we all love to wear our greys and blacks but try adding a pink lip for a little color to brighten up your look!

 

DIY Distressed Jeans

by Laura Perkins

Jeans: Abercrombie (old)  ||  T-shirt: Old Navy  ||  Shoes: Madewell

When I see DIY, I usually think to myself, that's really cool but I don't think I have time for this "Do It Yourself" craft. Well if you can relate, don't be scared by this post! You can do it! And if you're on a budget, like me, you sometimes have to choose a DIY version to get the trend on a dime! In 2004 I used to absolutely love these ripped Abercrombie jeans (yes, in college I wore all Abercrombie all the time!). So I decided to hold onto them...for 10 years! Recently, I wanted to figure out a way I could wear them again as the ever-so-trendy distressed boyfriend jean. But the outdated sown in capri length was holding me back. My only option was to cut out the cuffed hem. I'll admit I was nervous at first but once I made the cut, I was so happy! I had the length I wanted to then roll them up "boyfriend jean style."

T-shirt: J.Crew  ||  Jeans: Abercrombie (old)  ||  Heels: Guess (DSW)  ||  Necklace: Lola Accessory Boutique  

My next DIY creation was turning an old pair of skinny jeans into an edgier ripped style (specifically with a hole in the knee) that we're seeing in all the stores. I took these black skinny jeans that are maybe 4 years old and decided to cut about half an inch (it widens once it's on) at the top of my knee. I'll admit I google imaged "ripped black skinny jeans" and "skinny jeans with hole in the knee" before I got started! I was debating between a hole on one knee or two (I've seen it done both ways) but decided for now to just do one hole/one knee. Who knows, maybe I'll do the other side!? Note: Make sure to try them on first and make a slit so you know exactly where to cut. My advice is to start out smaller, try them on again and then see if you'd rather make the hole bigger. The good news is you can't really mess it up. All distressed jeans are unique. Plus it takes about 2 seconds and now you've completely updated your denim look!

T-shirt: J.Crew  ||  Jeans: Urban Outfitters  ||  Heels: Old Navy  ||  Necklace: Lola Accessory Boutique

A Search for the Best Boyfriend Jeans

by Laura Perkins

I have been on the hunt for the perfect pair of boyfriend jeans. Around Matthew, I like to call them "husband" jeans! (I'm such a dork.) During my search, these were some of my favorites that I came across. Personally, I really love the distressed style but the ones you can still wear to work (ie. not the jeans with two big holes from your front pockets to your knees...yikes!). I just think boyfriend jeans are such a fun trend that you can dress up or down with heels or flats. And you can rock them year round so it's a pretty great investment. This might seem like an obvious style tip, but if you don't feel cute in the baggier fit, go for a slimmer cut with a slight slouch. And don't forget to roll up the bottoms to give you that fresh, relaxed look. The good news is there are so many amazing options out there (even DIY which is fab!) so find a pair that works with your personal style and budget.