Outfitted :: Pumped Up Kicks

Well, I did it. I succumbed to the wedge sneaker trend. I'd actually been shopping around for awhile and finally settled on a pair from TopShop (same style, different color), but just couldn't seem to make them work, something about them made them look like moon boots on my feet and I felt really awkward walking around in them, like everyone was staring at my moon boot feet.

In my determination to make them work I took them with me to Germany and wouldn't you know it, the last night I was there we were out and about and I came upon these leopard printed kicks. If you know me, you'll know I'm a big fan of leopard, cheetah or really any animal print. I also thought, the wedge sneaker isn't going to be my go-to, everyday shoe, so why not get a pair that's a little more fun and makes more of a statement (because moon boots aren't enough of a statement). And so I bought them and here they are today!

H&M peplum top (similar) / F21 skirt (also worn here) / Truth & Pride leather jacket (also worn here) / Random infinity scarf / Michael Kors bag / Young Spirit wedge sneakers (similar)

Even this pair I'm a little unsure of. It's just not a look I'm used to seeing myself in, at times I feel I'm trying too hard to be urban and hip. Normally with this kind of outfit I'd pair it with a tall boot or sassy flat, but life and this blog would be ultra-boring if I didn't try something different every once and awhile. I think they'll come out more during the Spring/Summer as I tend to like how they look more with dresses and skirts. We'll see, I guess!

What are your thoughts on the wedge sneaker trend? Yay or Nay?

Happy Wednesday! Thanks for reading!

5 Inspiring Natural Hair Celebrities

Wow, it's been forever since my last natural hair post! I had all these plans to show different ways to style Senegalese twists each week, but then the holidays came around and I just stuck to the same styles to get me through the madness and now it's about time I take these bad boys out.

I'm really hoping to find a balance between style and hair posts this year. I'm very much the type of person that when it comes to my hair or makeup, I tend to figure out what works best and just stick with it, not much experimentation is involved as I'd rather spend time dreaming up outfits rather than worrying about what to do with my hair.

But I really want to challenge my creativity when it comes to my hair, maybe even do a couple tutorials via YouTube (Oooo, I'm getting fancy!), we'll see, there's a whole year in front of us full of possibilities.

For now, I wanted to offer some inspiration, for both you and me, for the return of my kinks and share with you 5 natural haired celebrities who have inspired me with their confidence and sass when it comes to their natural locks and (naturally...*ahem*) their personal style.

Daughter of an original natural hair diva, Diana Ross, ask any curly-head who their natural hair muses are and Tracee is bound to top the list, I mean just look at those curls! Past being naturally gorgeous she also has an impeccable sense of style. You can always count on her to bring something fresh and original both for every day and on the red carpet.

Brandy, Brandy, Brandy. Gone are the days of Moesha (M to the, O to the...) and "Sittin Up In My Room", she has grown into one sassy lady and I'm really happy to see her coming back both in music and with her natural locks. She was my idol back in my tween years, and even inspired me to take the plunge in getting braids. I'm hoping we'll see even more of her and those curls this year!

Although Monae consistently rocks her trademark pompadour, for some reason I never tire seeing it. She's able to smartly remix the updo, but yet keep it the same. I don't know what kind of voodoo magic she's got up her sleeve, all I know is I wish she would share with the rest of us. The master of mixing glam with menswear (is there such a thing as dapper-chic?), if you're ever looking for some inspiration for rocking men's apparel, look no further than Ms. Monae.

I've featured Corinne on the blog before and for good reason, she is definitely considered an idol in the natural hair community. Who doesn't dream of having her soft and full curls, even in pictures I just want to dig my fingers in her hair (can you imagine if I ever met her in person, I'd be THAT girl who crossed wayyyy too many personal boundaries). She never ceases to surprise me with her style choices either, very simple and classic, yet it always catches the eye.

If you've been reading my blog for awhile, then you'll know I have both a hair and style love affair with Solange (we're besties in my head!). I love the versatility she has with her hair and how carefree she is with it, one day a twa, the next in a major fro, the next in chunky 'Poetic Justice' braids. I feel I'm very similar in how I approach my hair (and this, of course, is why we'd be besties), I let it do what it wants with little styling outside of a twist-out every now and then. And don't get me started on her personal style -- not afraid of mixing colors, prints, or textures, to me she can practically do no wrong. To spend an hour in her closet would be a true dream come true.

And there we have it! I don't know about you, but I'm so ready to bust out my fro again! Which natural hair celebrities do you find inspiring?

Happy Monday & thanks for reading!

All Photos via Pinterest

Outfitted :: Snowy Day Layers

As I'm typing this, snow is continuing to fall here in Chicago, these pictures don't do justice for how much snow is now on the ground. I won't lie it makes for beautiful scenery and if it's going to be this cold you might as well have some snow to go along, right? 

What I like about snow days is that yes it's cold, but it's not freezing like it was a couple days ago, some simple layers is all you really need to get by. My essentials are a fuzzy sweater, wool coat, chunky scarf, and knit gloves.Very simple yet very effective for keeping nice and toasty in the snowy elements.

Jessica Simpson Coat (super old!) / Vintage Sweater / Free People blouse (also worn here) / Circle scarf / Urban Outfitters gloves / H&M Jeans / Charlotte Russe Booties / Marc by Marc Jacobs bag

These gloves were a must Urban Outfitters sale purchase. I had misplaced my previous pair/certain my cats had took off with them and hid them in the deepest, darkest corner beneath my couch. But of course, as soon as I returned home with newly warmed hands, my old gloves *magically* reappeared....My cats are such a**holes sometimes.

In other news, I found out one of my best girlfriends from college got engaged last night! I'm so excited for her, we've come a long way since freshmen year of college and now I have a NYC/DC wedding to look forward to in the near future!

Hope everyone has a great weekend, no real plans on my end, just a little R&R and blog prep, there's a lot of planning for Kinks are the New Pink for the future! As always, thanks for reading and Happy Friday!!

How to Style :: Inspired By Men

Happy Wednesday! Fun fact, yesterday morning it was a whopping 0 degrees in Chicago, probably even in the negatives with the combined wind chill. Luckily most of my day was spent at home in my fleece pajamas and doggy slippers (comfy and trend-setting). For the few minutes I did step outside, I can't even  begin to describe the bone-crushing cold that hit you within 3 seconds. And that's coming from a girl who lived in Alaska for 2 years. It could get down to 30 below (yes, that's -30 degrees), and while I'm pretty positive we never actually left the house when it got that cold, I don't remember it ever being as painful as this cold in Chicago. But I guess that's what living in the South for 6 years will do to your cold weather tolerance.

But enough weather talk. Ever since Monday's outfit post I've been obsessing over menswear inspired womenswear. I already have outfits planned for the rest of the week that have masculine touches, I've been online shopping the men's department of various retailers, and pinning up a storm of various menswear looks to try for myself. It's a full on addiction I'm dealing with here. And to bring you into my world, I've created three different looks inspired by a few stylish men to show how you too can incorporate menswear into your everyday outfit repertoire.

Rag & Bone Saffron Skinny Cords / Fred Perry Garner Bedford Brogue / Topshop Geo Patch Crossbody / Coach Boyfriend Bracelet Watch / J.Crew Perfect Shirt in Buffalo Plaid 

This first look is casual and simple, something to wear for a lazy Sunday brunch after an epic Saturday night. It doesn't scream menswear, but definitely gives it a sly wink. Add a red lip and cat-eye sunnies for a more feminine touch.

Madewell Charade Blazer / Ted Baker 'Fortun' Skinny Fit Trouser / Cocoa Brown Bow Tie / Theory Freja Wealth Blouse / Charles by Charles David Rockstar II Pump / ASOS Slot Through Envelope Clutch / Tokyo Jane Guntilde Bracelet / Oliver Bonas Ajala Bangle 

For a fancier affair, why not ditch your typical cocktail dress and go for a tailored 'suit-like' ensemble? A fitted blazer and skinny trousers would definitely make a statement. If the bright blue is too much too soon, a black, grey, or other neutral color would work just as well. Just be sure it's tailored and has clean lines. For more 'suit-spiration' (yes? no...?), take a few notes from Janelle Monae, the girl knows how to rock a suit!

Kate Spade Dot Scarf / J.Crew Keeper Chambray Shirt / Fossil 'Georgia' Leather Strap Watch / Coach Legacy 'Candance' Carryall / Rag & Bone Classic Newbury Ankle Boot / Mark. In The Trenches Jacket / Oasis Black Cherry Skinny Jeans / Banana Republic Panama Hat

Is you mind a little blown from this one? Don't worry, my was too. I actually really love Dapper Lou's look (and his blog!) and plan on trying to recreate it with items in my closet. This is an excellent example on the art of layering for both men and women alike. Simple separates that definitely work on their own, but really make a statement when paired together. And again, what will make this (and any menswear look) work for the ladies is finding that balance between masculine and feminine elements.

Hope that offered a little more inspiration on how to create menswear looks from your wardrobe. Don't be scared to go creeping searching through your man's closet for items, chances are he won't notice, and if he does it's totally hot for girls to wear their guy's clothes, am I right? Haha!

Thanks for reading!

Photos: 1 / 2 / 3

Outfitted :: Borrowed From The Boys

One of the perks of DCT and I living together is the easy access to his closet, he can be quite the little style maven (with a little help from your's truly) and with the abundance of sharp button-downs and snappy blazers it shouldn't be surprising how often I actually steal borrow from his closet.

I went a little old school with this menswear-inspired 'fit, a waistcoat layered under a blazer and loose fitting tie makes me feel a little 'Mad Men'. I love the effect the layers create for an overall 'put-together, yet undone' look. It was DCT approved and he even made note to try this look himself (minus the sassy clutch and heels).

H&M blazer (similar Ark & Co blazer) / Borrowed waistcoat / Anthropologie button-up / Borrowed tie / Theory pants (similar ASOS high waist pants) / Mia Newberry pump (different color) / Patterned clutch purchased from Etsy / Michael Kors watch + bangle

Style Tip: When wearing menswear as womenswear keep it simple if it's your first time testing it out. A tailored blouse paired with an oversized blazer and brogues is an easy, everyday look that has masculine touches but isn't overtly menswear. It's all about finding that balance between feminine and masculine, so pile on the jewelry, add a red lip, or grab a fun clutch. As you get more comfortable with the look then start playing around with more male accessories such as ties, waistcoats, fedoras, and even suspenders!

I have to tell you, I just about froze to death taking these pictures, silly me did not check to see how cold it was supposed to be that day (14 degrees), and though you thankfully can't see in these photos my eyes and nose were running like crazy, a couple walking their dog went by and I think struggled with asking me if I was mentally ok (I wasn't), and by the end (which I think I only lasted 10min, if that) I had the shivers and couldn't feel my hands. It's a hard life for us bloggers in the winter.

It's going to be a cold couple of days here in Chicago (our predicted high is 12 degrees, but it'll feel more like -5 degrees), don't worry about me though, I plan to be buried under piles of blankets and my mind will be on a beach in the South of France. Have a great Monday, stay warm Chicagoans, and thanks for reading!

Author's Note: This post was inspired by and created for the IFB Project #80: Menswear...For Everyone.

What To Wear :: Presidential Inaugural Ball 2013

Who doesn't like an opportunity to get fancy? The days of proms and sorority formals are long (but not that long...) behind me and I really don't live the sort of lifestyle that involves a plethora of invitations to galas & black tie dinners. My only hope for a fancy affair would be peer pressuring friends into getting married, but since that would be unfair to them I'll simply make do by pretending and thinking up fabulous things to (hopefully) someday wear.

The Presidential Inaugural Ball is coming up this Monday, January 21st, and while everyone is all a-buzz wondering what, or should I say who, Michelle Obama will wear with her new bangs, I started wondering what would I wear if I were attending such a special occasion. So in true Kinks are the New Pink form, I've created a few looks I think would be perfect for a night at the Inaugural Ball or any occasion that requires sparkly jewels ;) Enjoy!

Lara Bohnic Gagarin Rosegold Bracelet / Laura Mercier Lip Colour in Tamara Red / Robert Rodriguez Avril Dress / Suzanna Dai Plum Prague Drop Earrings / Alexander McQueen Skull Box Clutch / Kors Michael Kors Aberly Pumps

I know a short dress at a ball seems a bit taboo, but I feel if you choose a dress with a more luxurious fabric and design it works just as well as a floor length number. Just remember to pile on some statement making jewels to make the look more formal for the evening.

Alexander McQueen Python Box Clutch / Max&Chloe Gala Rubelite Teardrop Earring / Badgley Mishcka Turn Back Time Gown / Giuseppe Zanotti Sandals

I love a formal dress in an unexpected color, you don't see enough purple at formal events. The best part of this dress, however, is the back, hair swept to the side or in a simple up do is a must to show off this beauty.

Guess Neodany Silver Shoes / Feathered Soul Diamond Thin Cuff / YSL Lipstick in Orange Shiver / Reem Acra Florence Gown / ModCloth Statement of the Art Necklace / Fendi Giano Rigid Clutch

This is probably my favorite look, we all know I love a pop of color (and sparkles) which this look has plenty to offer. A nude colored gown is classic and can be styled in so many ways, if you're not one for brights but still want to add some color try rich jewel tones in purples, greens, and blues or for a softer look pair with light greys and creamy whites.

Now don't you want to put on your fancy heels and hit the town? If you're a fan of any of these dresses and have a special event coming up you can find them and more on Rent The Runway. Thanks for reading! Happy Friday!

Currently...

Hi there! Just popping in to share some photos of life during the first few weeks of the new year. Enjoy!

My friend and I have joined a 52 week photography challenge where every week we're given two themes and we're to go out and take photos we think represent those themes. Themes from week 1 were 'View From My Window'(photo 1) and 'Bumpy'(photo 2), and week 2 was 'All Lined Up'(photo 3). I'm loving how this is challenging my creativity and photography skills, I'll be sure to update you all with my photos through out the year!

Getting back into a healthy start to the day.

Still living in the holiday spirit.

Enjoying late nights with sweet treats

Styling a new hat to channel my inner Man Repeller.

Hope your week is going swell. Thanks for reading!

Outfitted: Blanket Cardigan

Freeway Blanket Cardigan (similar ASOS Fringe Detailed Blanket Cardigan or in Vintage Pattern) / Lazerade by Veda Velvet Shorts (similar TopShop Velvet Shorts) / Target Tights / Etienne Aigner Thrifted Boots / Gifted Scarf / Marc by Marc Jacobs Bag

Why hello there Monday, and hello to the freezing temperatures, I think the real Chicago winter has finally landed. DCT and I went out last night for pizza, beer, and some Golden Globes watching (side note: I didn't realize how many good movies came out this year, so glad both Argo & Les Miserables won in their respective categories, both of them were sooooo good!). When we left I seriously contemplated hailing a cab to drive us the one block to our apartment, fortunately (or unfortunately) DCT was able to talk me down off that cliff though I still feel the icy, burning cold in my legs.

Winter layering has become a big thing for me and my closet lately, this look is actually a little parred down compared to what I have been layering. But through it all, this blanket cardigan has been an essential. Thin enough you can pile sweaters underneath or jackets overtop, yet thick enough to wear on it's own, it's a great balance that makes it much more versatile than expected. And I mean, it has the word 'blanket' in it's name, just thinking about it makes me feel warm and cozy ;)

I'm also in love with this color palette - warms reds, oranges, and browns paired with cool blues, greys, and greens are my favorite for the winter. It beats wearing black all the time and is still totally cold weather appropriate (though we all know I'll still rock a summery pink in the dead of winter, haha!).

Stay warm out there! Thanks for reading!

Outfitted: Lazy Day Wear

*Wearing: PJ by Peter Jensen Sweater (sold out) / F21 Stripe Skirt / Target Tights / H&M Loafers (cute alternatives from Urban Outfitters & Nasty Gal) / ASOS Boyfriend Beanie / Rebecca Minkoff 'Rumor' Bag

It's Friday? This week went by super fast, did it not? I don't know about you all but this has to be the weirdest winter I have yet to experience in Chicago. It's almost mid-January, we've had one tiny little snow storm and I feel totally warm and cozy heading out the house in just a chunky sweater, tights, and flats. What the what?!

I'm not going to lie, this outfit was very randomly put together, but somehow it seems to work. I recently grabbed this PJ by Peter Jensen sweater at work (I've been snatching up some great finds lately!) and wanted to wear it, but wasn't in the mood to wear pants, and while the sweater is oversized, it's not long enough to cover my bum so 'leggings-as-pants' wasn't option. As I was digging around in my dresser scrounging for something (anything!) to wear, realizing how badly I need to do laundry, I came across this skirt in a far, dark corner of my drawer. After beating out the wrinkles I decided this'll do, threw on some tights, my fancy flats, a beanie (my ultimate lazy day accessory) and headed out the door.

I could literally sleep in this outfit it's so comfy, but I didn't...just so you know...though I won't lie it has happened before ;)

Hope you have a great weekend! Thanks for reading!