Christmas Wear

LOFT top / Banana Republic black jacket / Skinny jeans / Gap slip on boots / BaubleBar gold earrings / Fossil jewelry / Ralph Lauren scarf


Tartan is a big trend this winter and I can't think of a more perfect time to wear it then Christmas!  For a more conservative and dressy look swap out the distressed jeans for a nice dark pair and wear with knee high black boots or healed booties. 


Do you have everything crossed off your list?  There's still time to email me and order your last minute Real Life. Real Style gift certificate, katysteenwyk@gmail.com!  My shopping is complete and now it's time for operation Christmas wrap.  Does anyone else go nuts when your kids want to open up every single roll of wrap and you're like no, we have to use the three that are open first!  Pet peeve of mine to have 8 open rolls of wrapping paper.  Ok, coming down from my soap box now! Happy wrapping everyone!

Holiday Sparkle

 Gap long sleeve shirt / Sequin top / LOFT pants / Gap shoes / shoulder bag / Fossil earrings / Fossil watch


We can't have the holidays without a little sparkle, can we?!  I'll be featuring a few different looks here on the blog over the next week or two to give you some holiday fashion inspiration.  I love this look because it's festive, but not over done.  It's a timeless look for all ages, and can be worn throughout winter.  Have a great weekend everyone!

Fair Isle Sweaters

 Kensie top /  Fair isle sweater / Abercrombie Fitch fair isle sweater / 
Tommy Hilfiger crew neck pullover sweater  / Boden fair isle sweater /  Turtle neck sweater

If you've been out and about I'm sure you've notice that fair isle has made a comeback for this winter.  Side bar, where did that name come from?  I'll have to google it.  So, I thought I would share a few of my favorites here.  Everything from traditional fair isle to the modernized twists.  I have to say that I do love the look and am glad to see it's back, call me nostalgic. I'm swooning over the turtleneck version from the Gap. Maybe I'll get lucky in an after Christmas sale, if there's any left!

Don't forget that Real Life. Real Style gift certificates make a perfect gift for that special someone on your Christmas list.  Email me at katysteenwyk@gmail.com and I'll take care of the rest!  Happy Shopping!

Lounging Around

American Eagle sweatshirt / Madewell black stretch legging / SOREL boots / shoulder bag / Merrell socks / Tortoise Texture Links


Lounge wear is definitely having it's moment, isn't it?  And honestly, I sometimes look at the price tags and think really?  You want how much for clothes I'm going to wear to work out, or to lay around the house?  I remember a day when our old stained, faded, worn out clothes would be used for those occasions, but now we pay just as much for bumming around clothes as we do for sweaters and dresses.  Crazy!  Ok, I'm stepping off my soapbox.  I actually do love today's comfy, but pulled together look for running out and about. 

Fall Outerwear

Plaid coat /  RD Style vegan leather motorcycle jacket  / Plaid lined jacket / Skies Are Blue faux fur cropped coat / LOFT pocket vest / Piperlime Collection faux jacket


Baby it's getting cold outside!  I'm not quite ready for the full on parka yet, so here are some fun fall/early winter options to keep you looking cool and feeling warm!

Blanket Scarves

American Eagle Outfitters scarve / Blue scarve / Tartan shawl /
Zara scarve /Topshop scarve / Fringe shawl /  

I've posted a couple selfies of myself this week wearing the season's hot new blanket scarf trend over on facebook and instagram.  Since then I've had a few gals ask me via social media and in person where they can find one for themselves, so I thought I'd share some fun, fall blanket scarves here on the blog.

FYI, one thing I've noticed is that my neck gets a little sore or stiff after awhile due to the weight of the scarf.  Maybe it's just me though, I could be weird like that.

#whatiwore

                     
                               Today was preppy Tuesday!  I think navy is my new favorite neutral.

                       Although yesterday was filled with grey, and that may be a close second!

Hey everyone, want a peek into what I wear on a daily basis?  Come follow me over on facebook or instagram at reallife.realstyle.  To be completely honest, it's a real stretch for me to take pics of myself and post them for the world to see.  It's not really my style (hee, hee), but growing and stretching ourselves is what it's all about, right?!

Game Day

Old Navy zipper vest / American Eagle Outfitters hoodie / jeans / SOREL boots / The North Face hat

It's amazing how just a few weeks ago, it seems we were wearing short sleeves and sunglasses for our beloved fall sports.  Now it's hat and glove season. That's Michigan for you. Just because you have to layer up doesn't mean fashion has to suffer entirely.  I love this look because it's cool, but laid back.  You never want to look like you're dressed for a 3 course dinner when you're sitting in the stands.  

Great Fitting Fall Tunic

red plaid tunic / Gap super skinny jeans / Gap slip on boots / black tote / Crystal pendant jewelry

I am lovin this cool, but cozy look for the weekend.  Or any day of the week, for that matter! A leather cuffed shirt?  Sign me up!

One of my favorite things about this shirt is the length. Take note ladies, it is the perfect length for pairing with leggings/jeggings, It lands just beyond the largest part of your leg which is very important, and sometimes difficult to find in a tunic. The second best feature is the fit.  Tailored enough so you don't look pregnant and it skims the body beautifully. If you're going to pull off the tunic look for fall the fit is muy importante!  

Fall Boots Under $100

Short brown boots / ALDO vintage black boots /  LOFT suede ankle booties /  Sole Society round cap / American eagle outfitters boots / Gap elastic boots / American eagle outfitters boots / ALDO wedge ankle booties 

It's boot season, ladies!  I've resisted as long as I can, but the time has come.  The days are getting cooler and my piggies must be kept toasty.  Here is a great selection of simple, classy boots, all for under $100!  

Work Wear

 Banana Republic jacket / LOFT blouse / Skinny fit pants / LOFT spiked booties / Gap floral handbag / Aztec jewelry

When choosing items for your work wardrobe everyone should be looking for pieces they can mix and match, and that will last for years to come.  Here are a few beautiful and classic must have pieces to add to your fall and winter work wardrobe.  

LOFT Fall Favorites

 gold jewelry / long sleeve sweater / bateau neck top / blouse / skirt / polka dot top / asymmetrical zip sweater


LOFT has been knocking it out of the park lately, so I thought I'd pass along a few of my favorite finds for work and play this season.  FYI, never pay full price at LOFT.  Just wait a few days because they're always running sales! 

Leather Favorites For Fall

 long sleeve top /J Crew leather baseball cap/ jacket /Faux leather cardigan /sleeveless blouse / striped top  /  Ann Taylor ankle jeans


As promised here are some more great leather (or faux leather) looks for fall!  Please, someone buy these leather waisted pants from Ann Taylor and send me a pic!

A Bit of Leather

Ann Taylor faux leather top / LOFT jeans / ballet flat / brown bag/ Stella & Dot stud earrings


Leather is huge for fall this year.  Here's a great way to incorporate a little bit into your wardrobe.  Swooning over this Ann Taylor top!  BTW, follow me on facebook or instragram (reallife.realstyle) to see my personal take on the trend!  More posts coming soon with some more leather favorites for fall!

Layers for Fall

LOFT short sleeve tee / J Crew chambray top / Gap skinny jeans / shoes /stackable bangle /crystal stud earrings

This time of year layers are the name of the game.  Cool mornings, warm afternoons, followed by cool evenings.  One of my favorite ways to layer is by taking a short sleeve or sleeveless top from summer and layering a button up underneath.  Now, the shirt obviously needs to have a bit of weight to it for the look to work, but when done right it looks very modern and stylish.  Don't get me wrong I love a good classic cardigan, just ask my closet, but this is a great modern way to layer.

Also, don't forget to check out my Real Life Real Style facebook page and follow me on Instagram at reallife.realstyle, for a sneak peak of my personal everyday looks.  Just give me a little grace for my amateur photography.  I'm a wardrobe consultant with a blog, not a fashion blogger for pete's sake! 

Denim Finds for Fall

 Baseball cap/  American Eagle Outfitters denim jacket / White House Black Market stretch jeans /Gap  jeans /Gap high rise jeans / Baseball cap/ Gap long sleeve top 

It wouldn't be fall without lots of denim, so I thought I would post a few of my favorites.  I chose three jean styles, staples most women should have in their closet.  A nice dressy boot cut/trouser jean, a boyfriend jean, and a clean, flattering dark wash skinny jean (note that these are high waisted, so glad it's making a come back!). Disclaimer - please note I said most women, depending on your age and body type!

And we can't forget the classic and ever so versatile denim shirt and jean jacket.   By the way, don't you love this baseball cap? I am drooling over it!

Just when you think the torture of bathing suit shopping is done, here come the jeans, right?! Ugh! Jeans can me a woman's worst nightmare.  If you need help figuring out what denim works best for your age and body type give me a shout.  Email me at katysteenwyk@gmail.com to schedule a consult at your home.

How to Style Burgundy for Fall

American Eagle Outfitters sweater / LOFT top / Gap 1969 Always Skinny Jeans / Ann Taylor stretch pants /
Liz claiborne shoes / Gap cowgirl boots /  leather handbag / jewelry / FOSSIL stainless steel jewelry

I do keep a promise, ladies!  As promised from last week's post here are a few ways to style burgundy heading into fall.  I have been dragging my feet into September, but now that the weather forecast is looking cooler and my family had one last beautiful day out on our boat this weekend, I'm finally looking forward to the new season and breaking in the few new pieces I've picked up for fall.  One happens to be a burgundy sweater, so I'm actually giving myself a little inspiration here!  

Fall Trend - Burgundy

LOFT collar blouse 
American Eagle Outfitters long sleeve crew neck sweater 
Kendall Kylie cotton hat
Aéropostale open knit top
Sole Society zip top tote bag 
Red trousers 
Kate Spade square stud earrings 

I'm back!!!!!  Sorry guys, it was a busy, but fun summer so I decided to give myself some grace and take some time off from posting on the blog.  But, the kiddos are back in school and it's time to get back to it.  New fall clothes are hitting the stores and my inbox daily, so I don't want to leave you all hanging, wondering what in the world to invest in this fall.  

So, let's start with a big color trend we're seeing right now - burgundy!  Also known as cranberry, maroon, deep red.  You get the picture.  Lots of shades to choose from in this color, so pick the one that works best for your skin coloring. I have to say I'm a big fan of this rich, elegant, and classy color.  Stay tuned for later posts on what to pair it with.  Here's a hint though - grey, black, camel, cream, white....(basically any neutral)

One final thing, now that your back to school shopping is done for the kiddos, it's time to focus on you!  Give me a shout, I'd love to help you edit your closet or hit the stores and do some shopping. You can find me at katysteenwyk@gmail.com!

One Top Two Ways

Banana Republic peplum top / LOFT tall pants / Chino shorts / DV by Dolce Vita leather shoes / American Eagle Outfitters flip flops / tote bag / Stella Dot statement necklace / Bib necklace

Today's post is a great example of  how to make your wardrobe work for you.  Buy wisely, like this peplum top from Banana Republic and get the most bang for your buck with two looks, one for work and one for play.

Summer at the Office

LOFT pants / Cole Haan wedge shoes / Fossil jewelry / MARC BY MARC JACOBS earrings / Women's blouse| Banana Republic


I was shopping with a client last night and two things dawned on me - 1. I am way overdue for a blog post and 2. I haven't done a work wear post in a long time.  So, in light of the fact that I was shopping for summer work wear with my client it seemed fitting to blog about it here today.


A nice white pant is a great way to spruce up your summer work wardrobe.  Just make sure the pant has a nice think fabric so it's not see through and a professional cut or style to it.  Office dress codes can differ but for the most part sleeveless tops are acceptable as are open toe shoes.  This outfit is very neutral, but summer is also the perfect time to add some color to your office looks.  Go bold ladies, it's summer after all! Sounds like a great post for next time.....stay tuned....

Shorts

 LOFT eyelet shorts / J.Crew shorts / Mossimo pocket shorts /
American Eagle Outfitters torn shorts / Daytrip white shorts / Pocket shorts

I'm optimistic that at some point we WILL be able to wear shorts this spring/summer!  So, if you're in the market to spruce up the shorts in your wardrobe here are a few fun options.  Also, unless you have very thin legs I would suggest staying way from shorts that are rolled at the bottom.  They can make your thighs look like sausages, and I know none of us want that!  

Polka Dots and Neon

Gap low rise jeans / Loft shirt/ American Eagle Outfitters brown sandals /  tan purse / Crystal necklace

Neon is still hot for Spring ladies, especially in fun accessories like this statement necklace.  I purchased these cuffed always skinny jeans from Gap, and love them to death, they are so comfy. They do stretch, so buy them snug.

Don't forget that Mother's Day is next week! A Real Life. Real Style gift certificate is the perfect gift for you or your mom! Email me at kate@steenwykbuilders.com and I'll take care of the rest.

At the Park

Boden top
bleached shorts
Lace up sneaker
leather belt
Floral hat


Some of my fondest Spring memories are meeting up with my girlfriends and their kids for play dates at the park.  It felt so good to bust out after being stuck in the house all winter, and Spring is definitely the best time of year to frequent the park.  So, in ode to my playgroup days at the park I give you this super cute outfit perfect for the park, the zoo, bike rides, and the like!

Everyday Neutrals

LOFT short sleeve top 
LOFT blue cotton jacket 
Gap destroyed jeans 
Liz Claiborne loafer
Oasis brown handbag
Fossil jewelry

I'm here, I'm here, alive and kicking, I promise!  Sorry for being so delinquent on my posts lately, but my family and I were chillaxin in Florida for Spring Break the past week and a half.  But, I'm back now, and ready to get to it!

You would think that after a week of sun and fun my post would be all bright and cheery, but alas the weather back home is pretty cold and gloomy today. So, we're going to our old friends the neutrals to get us through those cold blasts, when old man winter just doesn't want to leave.  Of course you could easily add a splash of color to this outfit by swapping out any of your accessories for something bright.  Think shoes, jewelry or belt.  Side note, I have these Gap raw edge jeans myself, and love them.  They're also easy to cuff and make into fun capris.  Two for the price of one, how can you pass that up?!

Spring Tennis Sweater

Boden sweater 
LOFT blue polka dot shirt 
Gap ripped jeans
Sam & Libby flat shoes
Topshop handbag
Baublebar necklace

Tennis sweaters are making a bit of a come back and I have to say I love it.  I owned a tennis sweater or two back in the day, and I would love me another! Here's a great way to update the look for this decade. The casual, distressed denim and polka dot shirt help keep the preppy vibe from going over the top.  Any one else love a good tennis sweater? I can't be on the only one. 

Spring Shoes

Sperry Top-Sider slip on shoes 
TOMS shoes
TOMS shoes 
Converse shoes
Canvas shoes 
Keds shoes
Keds shoes

 I am so ready to pack away my boots and say hello to bare feet and sneakers for Spring! Who's with me?!  Here's a little taste of some of the super cute shoe options out there.  Sneakers are a fun way to add a little color into your wardrobe, if you dare. I am such a sucker for a pair of Keds, always have been. I'm loving this slip on version, which is a huge trend for Spring, in this adorable chevron pattern.  How cute are those?!  

Neutral Sweater - Now & Later

Cotton sweater
Gap distressed jeans
Gap high waisted black skinny jeans
black knee high boots
TOMS navy blue shoes
Zip bag
Tinley Road long shoulder bag
FOSSIL cheetah print jewelry
sterling silver stud earrings
Ray-Ban ray ban sunglasses

Looking for some ways to make your closets basics more versatile?  Here's a great way to change up those neutral, closet staple, sweaters in your closet!  I have to admit, I'm dying to switch out my boots for some cute flats or sneakers.  How about you?!

What to Pack for Spring Break

LOFT stripe dress / American Eagle Outfitters crochet top / LOFT short sleeve top / Gap neon tee / Gap petite sweater / Gap denim jacket / Factory tank swimsuit in scattered dot / Gap slim jeans / Gap shorts / ASOS braided sandals / American Eagle Outfitters wooden sandals / Gap canvas zipper tote / Stella & Dot stella dot earrings / Stella & Dot vintage clip earrings / American Eagle Outfitters plastic sunglasses / American Eagle Outfitters beach hat / Essie nail polish

Regardless of how frightful the weather is outside Spring will come, right?!!  Instead of dwelling on the current, less then desirable weather, I'm going to start day dreaming about what to pack for Spring Break.  Here's a great place to start your packing list.  Bring along neutrals, basics and a couple complimentary brights to mix and match your pieces for a whole week.  If you need help getting your wardrobe ready for Spring email me at kate@steenwykbuilders.com.  Trust me, it will be a great winter doldrums buster!  

Trend Alert - Bomber Jackets

sweater jacket
21 jacket
Members Only blouson jacket
Embellished jacket
Mossimo jacket
Gap jacket

Another hot trend hitting the stores this Spring is bomber jackets.  I'm loving all the variety in style and materials out there, something to fit everyone's taste for sure.  Who doesn't love a new fun jacket for Spring?!  Enjoy these great, budget friendly options.

Nautical

J Crew anchor top 
Boden shorts
Pants
TOMS shoes
Scarve 
Gap striped sweater

Anchors away!  This time of year is typically when we see all the nautical wear come out in the stores to lure us back in to shop.  It's the go to look for in between seasons and early Spring apparel.  I am a sucker for anything nautical and I always get sucked into an item or two.  Okay, maybe three or four, but who's counting!  The great thing about nautical wear is that it never goes out of style and the colors are as classic as they come.  Who doesn't love stripes?!  You don't have to be a sailor to enjoy this trend!

Warm Weather Getaway Dresses

Rhyme Los Angeles beaded top dress 
Hive Honey keyhole chevron maxi dress
Colette One Shoulder Knit Maxi
White Tunic Dress
Old Navy Black jersey maxi dress
Yellow Dress

There's no time like the present to think about a warm weather getaway! Can I get an amen?! Whether you only go there in your day dreams or not, here are some fun dresses to pack for the trip!

Winter and Beyond

stripe top

jacket 
skinny jeans
suede boots
satchel purse
earrings

Okay, I know it's pretty much the dead of winter, but I love this outfit for both now and later into spring. The materials and colors are so versatile and fresh. The graphic sweater continues to be on trend, as well as ankle booties and the bomber jacket.  This outfit contains some trendy pieces, but also feels both classic and timeless to me.  

Cozy Winter White

Gap white open cardigan

American Eagle Outfitters ruffle top 
Ann Taylor cordoroy pants
tall leather boots 
hammered earrings
striped infinity scarf

If you're anything like me, this time of year your number one requirement for outfit selection is cozy and warm. So, here's a great option for those of us who want to be warm and stylish this time of year!  Baby it's cold outside!