Almost leather.

If there is one thing you can count on Chicago for - it's raging mood swings when it comes to weather. It's totally insane. For example, last week I wore this "almost leather" skirt to our seminar and meetings. Yesterday it was 92 and I was wearing a sundress. I surrender. Don't I say this every year actually? Don't answer that.

Well, I'll cut to the chase. This "almost leather" skirt is on sale @ Express for a whopping $29. I bought it for $34. The fit is fantastic - I love a good pencil skirt with some added edge. I also adore the classics...pair with a crisp, white shirt and you will be one class act. So...while the weather decides to be fickle, I'm going to keep this baby in rotation. Happy Hump Day!

Shop my exact look below:

Featured
Show your stripes.
Show your stripes.

Last week, my youngest approached me while getting ready for school and lifted up her shirt in the mirror and said, “Mom, I look bloated.” At that moment, I thought to myself, “My god…you have got to stop talking about your body, Johanna.” There I said it. I do all this work on the sidelines but the person who least appreciates it is…ME!

Pause with purpose.
Pause with purpose.

This Labor Day Weekend I slept. Normally this would not be a cause for celebration but I don’t think you understand…sleep is a wishlist item for me or at least it has been lately. This weekend I REALLY slept and you don’t really realize how bad you need sleep until you do it and wake up feeling 100% different. Funny how that works.

Diner en Blanc
Diner en Blanc

What’s white, chic and rosé all over? I’ll tell you! It’s Chicago’s Dîner en Blanc! Truly my favorite night of this summer and also a first for Jack and I. I’ve been hearing about it for years but this was our year to finally take part in the festivities.

Grid system.
Grid system.

Two things about New York:

  1. It’s incredibly hot in July.

  2. It’s impossible to get lost if you know about the grid system.

Intricate.
Intricate.

Life is intricate and one dress does not fit all occasions. That was a major life lesson for me over the years. Some are flirty and some are for business. This is my “get down to business dress.” I found it at Vici, no longer available, but I’ve linked some fun alternatives if you like the cut and style. Regardless, if you like their price points, they have a myriad of lace options that are perfect for summer. Most of their clothes fit TTS for me which seems to be the consensus with most bloggers.

Summer strolls.
Summer strolls.

Summer speeds up and slows down all at the same time for me. Yes, there are endless activities, parties and sleepovers but I wouldn’t have it any other way. The “slow” usually hits right around July; specifically on the weekends. Lazy backyard BBQs, bike riding and a heavy dose of strolling. And when I say strolling…I really mean strolling. One of our favorite Saturday activities is to plan an event and a city lunch. This is where the strolling comes in. Walking the neighborhoods at our own pace is probably my single, most favorite pastime.

Dinner date.
Dinner date.

If I am going to add a print anywhere in the wardrobe mix, it’s undoubtedly going to be cheetah. A little bit sassy and a whole lotta fun. This is my ideal summer night outfit, too. A simple, well made tank with a flouncy skirt. Add a denim jacket for layered warmth and you’re good to go.

Zip and go.
Zip and go.

After our March trip across the pond, I became passionate about some of the new labels I stumbled upon. Conditions Apply was one of them; also carried at Anthropologie. Known for their whimsical prints and strong use of color, it was just the brand my closet needed to take a break from my uniform B&W routine. And while you can’t teach an old dog new tricks, I can vow that the two pieces I now own will become permanent fixtures in my closet.

Vacant.
Vacant.

Fashion should be fun. I’ve been so uninspired lately. I have to tell you. Casual items - my wish list is long. Dressier options - not so much.

It's my birthday week! ...and 6 things that no longer scare me about getting old.
It's my birthday week! ...and 6 things that no longer scare me about getting old.

Birthdays are always a time for reflection aren’t they? This year, no milestone, just another trip around the sun. It’s been anything but boring though. I can assure you of that. Eminent growth, many rewarding wins and only a few tough moments. Nothing to complain about, right? Exactly!

FashionJohanna GrangeExpress, BooHoo, designers, Valentino, shoes, Outfit of the Day, Let's Get Dressed, Spring, chicago7 Comments