Why I Started Making my Own Legging Sets

This pink set was the first legging set I made, using the same fabric I used in the Pretty in Pink Pencil Skirt set. The idea was to be able to wear the long sleeve top with the pencil skirt, or the tank with the leggings. I think the slight shimmer of the fabric allows it to transition well into a more “dressed up” look once paired with accessories or the right shoes. I definitely don’t work out in this stuff, but I suppose I could 🤷🏽‍♀️ The patterns are based on my favorite pieces of workout clothing. I love the fit of Victoria Secret’s high-waisted leggings but was tired of paying $75 for each pair. I also have an Under Armour compression top I love so the cuts in the top are constructed to provide a tight fit.

Asymmetrical Denim Skirt by @ToryBurch

The first thing I notice about denim is always the color — how deep is the blue? I rarely gravitate towards dark denim unless it’s cold out. I loved the way the yellow stitching popped out and gave the skirt character. The length was absolutely perfect for work and happy hour. It was long enough to keep me warm during the day — and cover me while I rode my Citibike to work.

Leather in the Summer

No matter what Oprah says, I wear white in the winter and leather in the summer. All it takes is styling your items so that they are more seasonally appropriate. As a [new] New Yorker black clothing dominates most os my wardrobe. I actually have an entire closet dedicated just to my black clothes. When I purchase black items, I try to find something different — length of dress or sleeves, cool construction or different fabrics/textures. Leather (similar to wool, velour and lace) are difficult to transition from winter to fall, unless you pair them with something else. My outfit above and below isn’t special, just speaks to the fact that a sleeveless dress (no matter the fabric) can be work year-round. I particularly like to wear heavier fabrics to the office because the air conditioning is on full blast anyway! Not to mention, most restaurants are cold once you get inside!

A Nude Affair

I love the use of cremes and off-whites as the weather breaks. Instead of coming though blinding in all white, tans and similar colors let you move around a bit easier since you don’t have to worry about wiping you eyes and smudging makeup on your clothes all day 🙄 I like to mix whites, tans and nudes to give a bit of depth; texture helps with this as well – I love this t-shirt because it’s super comfortable, but looks a little bit fancy. 💁🏽

Stock Up on Florals!

My favorite trend of the fall has been florals. While the winter can get cold, florals in deep colors and really liven up your outfit. As you shop throughout the year, I’d recommend stocking up on florals in deep colors like blues, greens and burgundies which can easily transition into fall.

Fabulous Fashion Art Exhibit @PhilaMuseum

Fashion takes on a new life when exhibited as art. The Fabulous Fashion exhibit at the Philadelphia Museum of Art showcases dresses from each decade, organized by style. It’s a brilliant display as you see how the architecture of clothing melds over time.

An Afternoon at the @PhilaMuseum

Written by President ELLA

He had to work, so I made sure to plan something I wanted to do (that he would like as well). The Rocky movie history makes the Philadelphia Museum of Art is cool upon arrival. If you’re with it, you can wait in line to take a picture with Rocky — obviously we weren’t with it. But we did get pictures on the famous stairs he ran up. This is a great place for a photo op, date or just an afternoon when you have a few hours to to wander.

Freshen up Your Vintage Florals

Written by President ELLA

I’m tying to use what I have!! I dug back in my closet to see what I own that I can still wear this season. Looking into this season’s trends, the easiest trend for my closet to take on is water florals. Florals can illicit a sense of warmth that may make you think they are more appropriate for the spring or summer, but choosing the right floral, or pairing your florals correctly can help you transition your wardrobe through the seasons.

Back to Black #Midi Dress by @JayGodfreyNYC

Written by PresidentELLA

Can I be sexy in the winter, please?!?! I served this look at work as the weather began to change. Generally speaking, I love the idea of layering, but I love a great dress that I can wear out during the winter months. This Jay Godfrey midi dress tightens up everything God gave me while still allowing me room to breathe.

Papaya Cold Shoulder Dress by @cushnie

Written by PresidentELLA

I absolutely fell in love with this piece. I ordered it twice in the same size just to make sure it arrived. I was an absolutely amazing way to end the summer.