Ultimate Gift Guide 2017

Need advice on what to put under the tree? Look no further than my third annual gift guide! I've rounded up ideas for all the ladies in your life. Ready, set, get shopping!

For the prep:

Shop: 1. J.Crew vest // 2. Ralph Lauren perfume // 3. Tory Burch earrings // 4. Longchamp tote //

5. Forever 21 faux fur infinity scarf // 6. Anthropologie monogram necklace // 7. H&M sweater //

8. Hunter rain boots // 9. Daniel Wellington leather watch // 10. Mansur Gavriel suede loafers

For the loyal prepster, stick to timeless, well-made pieces that will last her years to come.

For the trendsetter:

Shop: 1. Vince Cameo top // 2. Kendra Scott necklace // 3. Bobbi Brown eyeshadow palette //

4. Saint Laurent tote // 5. Capri Blue candle // 6. Sole Society faux fur scarf // 7. Marble phone case //

8. Calpak luggage set // 9. Halogen booties // 10. Leather belt (perfect Gucci dupe!)

For your friend that could double as your personal stylist, don't settle for anything less than chic. Seek out statement-making materials like rose gold, white leather and marble.

For the lady:

Shop: 1. H&M faux fur jacket // 2. Olivia Burton watch // 3. Kate Spade purse //

4. Bauble Bar earrings // 5. Kate Spade jewelry box // 6. Sugarfina champagne candy //

7. Chloe perfume (one of my favorites!) // 8. Gucci mules // 9. Bauble Bar necklace // 10. H&M hat

For the most elegant person you know, pick up something glitzy and girlie — and you can't go wrong with anything light pink!

For the homebody:

Shop: 1. J.Crew pajama set // 2. Ugg slippers // 3. Kendra Scott picture frame //

4. Pottery Barn mug // 5. Pier 1 bar cart // 6. Fur throw // 7. Voluspa candle set //

8. Mark and Graham cocktail shaker // 9. Kate Spade recipe box // 10. Kitchenaid mixer

For the ultimate hostess — or your friend who would rather stay in and watch Netflix — give her the gift of something cozy or practical! I'm all about this list since moving into my apartment.

xo, Annabeth

The Perfect Fall Dress

Shop: Zara dress // Gold earrings (similar) // Sam Edelman heels //

Louis Vuitton pouch (from inside tote, similar here) // Kate Spade watch

When I noticed this dress at Zara, it was love at first sight! I'm always a sucker for floral, flowy dresses but this one seemed especially perfect for fall and the upcoming holidays because of the deep red color, embroidered florals and don't get me started on the polka dot details! I think this would be a great look for a "Friendsgiving" celebration or Thanksgiving dinner with the family. Also, how cute are these shoes!! (They are actually my mom's and I am plotting to steal them when I go home for Thanksgiving.) Stay tuned for more holiday outfit inspiration soon!

Click to shop more festive fall dresses:

xo, Annabeth

Fall Investment Pieces

Shop: 1. J. Crew wool coat // 2. Longchamp large tote // 3. Tory Burch riding boots // 

4. Halogen gold hoops // 5. Topshop sweater // 6. Banana Republic velvet pants //

7. Burberry wool/cashmere scarf // 8. J. Crew quilted vest // 9. Gucci leather belt // 10. Nixon watch

At the start of a new fall season, I'm always excited to try the latest trends. There are, however, those trusty, timeless items I always pull out of storage and look forward to wearing in the colder months. While I'm less inclined to spend a lot of money on a denim mini skirt or off-shoulder top, I do invest in well-made staples like the ones shown above. I always get excited about bringing out my wool winter coat and quilted vests from J. Crew. I use my Longchamp tote all year but I think it looks especially great when paired with a leather belt and riding boots in the fall. I also love cozy materials like a soft cream sweater, velvet or suede pants, and a cashmere Burberry scarf (which is definitely on my wish list!). And for some reason, I'm drawn to gold jewelry more in the fall and winter — like a simple gold watch and classic gold hoops.

Click to shop more fall staples:

xo, Annabeth

From Work to Play

Shop: Sleevless turtleneck (similar here and here) // Zara pants // Tory Burch bag (sold out, similar) //

Charlotte Russe heels // Oversized pearls // Kate Spade watch // David Yurman bracelet

I think one of the most challenging kinds of outfit planning is figuring out something that can transition from work to meeting up with friends. It's safe to say you probably don't want to wear your wool blazer to happy hour. While shopping at Zara recently, I found these fun flared green pants and knew they would be perfect for work and play. I paired them with this sleeveless turtleneck sweater that is a fun twist on a typical knit yet is appropriate enough for the office. I also love that these pants are high-waisted and think they would be fun with a tucked-in crewneck sweater for work or a silky lace tank for a night out. Not to mention the dark green color is so festive for the holidays!

Click to shop more pants that can go from work to play:

xo, Annabeth

One-Shoulder in October

Shop this look: Forever 21 one-shoulder sweater (similar here and here) // 

H&M skirt (similar) // Dolce Vita booties // Kendra Scott choker // Kate Spade watch // David Yurman bracelet

Two weeks ago, it was starting to feel chilly outside and since I had yet to move my fall/winter clothes to D.C., I stopped in Forever 21 to pick up a cheap cardigan or two to get by. Of course, I quickly got distracted and found this fabulous purple one-shoulder sweater. It's definitely not warm or practical, but c'mon how cute! I will definitely wear this look to go out with a denim skirt and booties as shown above, or paired with black skinny jeans and over-the-knee boots as the temperature drops. I found the sweater on Forever 21's website, but only in a warm gold color that is still super cute! But there were a ton of the purple version at my closest store so definitely keep your eye out for it and I will update this post if it is added online. Happy shopping!

Click to shop more sweaters:

xo, Annabeth

Romping Around

Shop this look: Chicory Lane romper // Tan hat (similar) // 

Franco Sarto OTK boots (sold out, similar) // Louis Vuitton bag // Kendra Scott earrings // 

Kate Spade watch // Chicory Lane tassel bracelet

Happy October! As promised in my last post, here is the fabulous romper that Chicory Lane Boutique sent me! I am obsessed with this burnt orange color for fall! Since the romper makes such a statement on its own, I paired it with neutral brown and tan accessories, like a felt hat and suede over-the-knee boots. By the way, I was so excited to get all of my boots out of storage! There is no better time of year. I've been working on lots of outfit posts so stay tuned!

xo, Annabeth

Falling for Florals

Shop: Chicory Lane Boutique top // Madewell jeans // Statement earrings (similar) //

Sam Edelman suede lace-up heels // Tory Burch bag (sold out, similar here)

It finally feels like fall! I've been enjoying the best two weeks back in Illinois before officially starting my job in D.C. I've been seeing lots of friends and family and of course ran out of outfits after the first week. Luckily, Chicory Lane Boutique sent me the cutest fall pieces to refresh my wardrobe like this floral ruffle top! I have always been a fan of fall florals because they can be the perfect way to transition from late summer to early fall. I styled this top with my Madewell cropped flare jeans (they are high-waisted and SO comfy!), but on a slightly warmer day I would wear a denim or suede mini. Chicory Lane also has other adorable styles for the season like this plaid ruffle top and this olive green floral cold-shoulder top. My wishlist is growing and what makes this boutique even better is their prices are actually reasonable — think $15-$50 range. Stay tuned for my next post featuring Chicory Lane's burnt orange romper and tassel bracelet. 

Click to shop more fall florals:xo, Annabeth

My Favorite Parts About Fall

1. The desserts! 

I have no problem admitting I love pumpkin spice everything — like this cupcake I enjoyed last fall. (Not to mention I am guilty of ordering the Starbucks pumpkin bread all year long.) I also can't get enough candy corn and apple cider.

2. The changing leaves (and boot weather of course) 

There is no prettier time of year and I can't wait for those crisp fall days when it is just chilly enough to wear a sweater, jeans and boots. This will also be my first fall in D.C. and I'm looking forward to experiencing it in a new place and hopefully hiking and making it to some wineries in Virginia!

3. Visiting the apple orchard and pumpkin patch

There is nothing more quintessentially fall than a trip to the apple orchard! This year, I will head to the nearest place to pick up mums and pumpkins to decorate the balcony of my apartment. And I will probably wear this sweater when I do — burnt orange is consistently one of my favorite hues of the season each year. 

4. Outfit planning

Summer has always been my favorite season, but even I can admit that the outfits can get a bit repetitive and simplistic as you are trying to stay cool. Fall is such a great time to experiment with fashion and layering. I am also drawn to colors during this time of year that I would normally avoid like deep hues of green, red and orange. And chillier temperatures mean I am breaking out ALL of the suede in my closet. The material exudes luxury and coziness at the same time. I'm loving this embroidered burgundy dress I found at Zara recently as well as these suede caramel-colored mules from Steve Madden. 

Click to shop more fall faves:

xo, Annabeth

The Perfect Fall Transition Pieces

Shop: 1. Zara plaid blazer // 2. Zara floral jeans // 3. Topshop flats // 4. Lovers + Friends belt //

5. H&M blouse // 6. Topshop lace tank // 7. H&M denim skirt // 

8. H&M hat // 9. Rebecca Minkoff bag

It was rainy and 60 degrees in D.C. yesterday, which finally got me thinking about fall clothes! Of course it's back to nearly 80 today, so sweater weather may still be a while away. That's why I love to slowly introduce fall colors and trends into my late summer wardrobe. I'm loving plaid and tweed, lots of denim, floral and lace details and hues of tan, blush and olive green. Stay tuned for more of my autumn picks as the temperature drops!

Shop more transitional pieces:

xo, Annabeth

Sharing My Obsession With Shay Collection

Shop: Shay Collection "The Tear Drop" earrings in silver/white // H&M floral romper

A few weeks ago, Shay Collection sent me a pair of earrings and I have been wearing them nonstop since! They are simple, elegant and sparkly — all of my favorite things in one! They can dress up a casual romper like the one I'm wearing above or would look great with a more formal wedding or party outfit. They also blend in with my everyday jewelry:

Shop: Mark & Graham monogram necklace // Pandora mother of pearl ring // David Yurman bracelet

I highly recommend checking these earrings out, and if you have sensitive ears that don't do well with heavy dangly styles, you are in luck because these have sparkly posts that hold them in place. Shay Collection also makes fab necklaces and bracelets. Shop some of my other favorites here, here and here.

xo, Annabeth

Shop My Favorite One-Shoulder Tops

Shop this look: Forever 21 off-shoulder bodysuit // Pants from Marshall's (similar here) //

Silver hoops // Steve Madden wedges // Louis Vuitton pouch (from inside tote, similar here)

On Nikki: C/Meo Collective dress (also featured on Kourtney Kardashian here)

Happy August! I know I should probably be sharing my early fall fashion picks, but it is 90 degrees in D.C. so cool weather clothes are the last thing on my mind. Instead, I thought I'd share my latest obsession with one-shoulder tops. I think they are a new and fun spin on this season's popular off-shoulder style. I wore the above look while visiting my friends in Chicago for my birthday weekend. The top is actually a stretchy bodysuit that I know will be a great staple this summer and the rest of the year. The flowy, striped pants were a Marshall's find, but I've linked a similar pair. They remind me of those fab gaucho pants we all wore in the fourth grade from Limited Too. I also had to share my friend Nikki's AMAZING dress. Also, here's one more off-shoulder look I wore for a Sunday exploring Union Market in D.C. If you are ever in the area, I recommend going there for amazing food, live music and adorable pop-up shops.

Shop this look: Ruffle blouse from T.J. Maxx (similar here) // Topshop shorts //

Steve Madden lace-up suede sandals // Ray Ban sunglasses // 

Kendra Scott turquoise necklace // Louis Vuitton bag

Shop some of my other one-shoulder picks:

xo, Annabeth

How I Style a Denim Mini Skirt

Shop this look: Zara off-shoulder top (sold out - similar here) // Forever 21 white denim mini //

Target X Bauble Bar earrings // Steve Madden espadrille sneakers // Ray Ban sunglasses //

Louis Vuitton tote (more affordable version here) // Kate Spade watch 

When I heard denim minis were back in style, I was apprehensive. I immediately associate them with the too-short, ripped Abercrombie version that I wore on repeat in eighth grade (with the matching moose t-shirt of course!). As a recent college grad, this didn't seem like a fashion chapter worth revisiting. When I saw this white version at Forever 21, however, I started to change my mind because the skirt was designed differently than the ones I owned in middle school. It has a higher waistline and longer hemline, which means it provides a lot more coverage! (The $20 price tag also helped me commit!) After purchasing, I decided to pair it with a preppy top and white sneakers for the Fourth of July. I think the sneakers especially make it more playful and appropriate — wedges would be too much. I definitely will wear the skirt more this summer. I also plan on pairing it with a lightweight turquoise sweater and gold sandals on a chilly night, and a v-neck tee and ball cap for a baseball game. Comment and let me know what you think of the denim mini trend!

Click to shop some similar summer pieces:

xo, Annabeth

Fourth of July Faves

Shop: 1. H&M off-shoulder dress // 2. Ray Ban sunglasses // 3. H&M bowtie shirt (similar) //

4. Zara gingham dress // 5. H&M ruffle romper // 6. H&M striped bikini // 

7. Nordstrom Rack fringe earrings (similar) // 8. Vineyard Vines tote // 9. Steve Madden sandals

Happy Fourth of July Weekend!! There is no better time to embrace classic American style. The more patriotic, the better! I'm bringing out all of the stripes, gingham and red, white and blue in my closet.  I like these looks because they could easily go from a pool party, to a barbecue, to watching fireworks. I can't wait to experience the holiday in D.C. and see fireworks over the National Mall! What are your Fourth of July plans?

Here are more of my faves:

xo, Annabeth

Sharing My Favorite Scents

Shop: (from left) Jo Malone perfume // Burberry perfume // Chloe perfume // Daisy perfume

I thought I'd take a break from my usual style posts to talk about something else — my favorite perfumes! I know a lot of people who have a signature scent (like Chanel No.5) but for some reason, I've never been able to narrow it down. I tend to choose my perfume depending on my mood or even outfit. That being said, here are my four go-to scents and why I can't live without all of them!

1. Marc Jacobs Daisy perfume

Daisy was my first big girl perfume that I got in the eighth grade. Before that, the top of my dresser was covered in fruity body sprays from Bath & Body and Victoria's Secret PINK. I remember seeing Daisy in Teen Vogue and knew I had to have it. I got it as a Christmas present from my parents and since then, I have gone through at least three bottles. I use it more often than my other perfumes because it is the perfect balance of floral, feminine and is not too heavy (I hate musky-smelling perfumes!).   

2. Jo Malone Peony & Blush Suede Cologne

I'm obsessed with peonies (hence the ones above that I couldn't resist at Whole Foods) but I think it is actually the notes of suede and red apple that make this perfume so addicting. It has a juicy yet sophisticated smell. I also love the size of the bottle because it is only 1 fl. oz. so it is perfect to pack in my carry-on.

3. Chloe by Chloe Eau De Parfum

I finally got this scent about a year ago after stopping to smell it every time I was at Sephora! It also has notes of peony (clearly I like floral scents) as well as magnolia and rose. It is so girly and I am guilty of spraying it on anytime I am wearing pink. Not to mention the bottle is beautiful!

4. Burberry Brit Sheer Eau De Toilette Spray

While this scent also has floral notes, it is much more crisp than my other favorites. It contains pineapple, mandarin and grapes, which makes it smell so fresh. I'm not sure why but it definitely smells the most grown-up of all the scents I use, which is why I am often inclined to spritz it on before work. I also think this scent works better in the winter as opposed to my Chloe and Marc Jacobs picks.

What are your favorite scents?

Click to shop:

xo, Annabeth