Dressy Casual in the City

I finally updated the layout of my blog! I wanted to dial the colors back to keep it fresh and simple so I hope you guys like it. Unfortunately, I've been recovering from a cold all weekend so these are photos from a while back that I didn't post yet. I hope no one else out there is suffering like me! My boss pretty much had to kick me out of the office last Friday since he was afraid to catch my germs. Maybe I should work from home the next week or so until it's 100% out of my system...that would be nice, wouldn't it?

Ok, let's get back on track. I have always appreciated how easy it is to transform a casual outfit to a dressier version of itself simply by throwing on some heels and accessories. That's what I think is so inspiring about fashion and all the unique ways it can be molded. My basics consisted of just a striped tank top/tunic, black leggings, and a chunky sweater but by adding tan heels, a statement necklace, and some bracelets, it was elevated to a 'dressy casual' look. This is actually somewhat of a default formula for me since I typically like to be comfortable but stylish at the same time.

H&M striped tunic (similar here and here) -- Old Navy leggings (buy) -- Ann Taylor chunky cardigan (similar) -- Steve Madden t-strap heels (similar) -- H&M crossbody messenger bag (similar) 

Back at one of my favorite spots...the ferry building!

My sister acted as my paparazzi by taking candid photos

Accessories: unbranded tortoise shell sunnies (similar) -- thrifted pearl button earrings (similar) UO bead and chain necklace (similar) -- unbranded watch (similar) -- H&M braided bracelet (similar) -- thrifted knot bangle (similar) -- leather cuff bracelet from Fiji (similar)

Love my baby sister!

I did manage to pick up this red blazer over the weekend at my local H&M with a 20% off coupon =) Did you get anything cool with the discount? (follow me on Instagram: karenyee10)

How do you dress up your otherwise casual outfits?

Chartreuse Tee and JPG Exhibit

I went fruit picking for the first time over the weekend and got a bunch of fresh apricots, nectarines, and strawberries. They taste so much juicier and sweeter when hand-picked. =P I was disappointed that I missed cherry picking season though because that's one of my favorite fruits. Did you guys do anything fun over the weekend?

From my Instagram (karenyee10) - the perfect little strawberry

Chartreuse has been one of my favorite summer colors to incorporate into my wardrobe so I wanted to feature it in my post today. I love this one because it's so soft and doesn't wrinkle! Back to my point-and-shoot photos while I'm still shopping around for a new camera unfortunately.

BDG v-neck tee from UO (buy) -- H&M black skinny pants (similar here or on sale here) -- Ann Taylor chunky cardigan (similar or cute one here) -- thrifted ivory kitten heels (similar with a bow)

Still love this chunky cardi!

Accessories: Target fringe necklace (pretty one here) -- Mossimo white python skinny belt (similar) -- thrifted silver cuff (similar)

I went to see the Jean Paul Gaultier exhibit at the De Young Museum recently and it was pretty incredible! The mannequins had very life-like, holographic faces and the fashion was very 'haute couture' but I thoroughly enjoyed it. 

My fave...stripes!

Mermaid on crutches?

The infamous cone-shaped bra

Interesting wedding dress

Any favorite summer colors you can't stop wearing? Please share!

Recent Find: Cozy Ann Taylor Knit

Sorry for my lack of updates lately...I guess I need to make it a habit of writing on here more regularly if I want to keep my readers coming back! =P Life just gets busy or I'm too tired after work and I'm sure you all know what I'm talking about. I was in Dallas for 2 days of training towards the end of last week and am still pooped from that. Maybe this is just a sign that I'm turning into an old lady.
 
Speaking of old ladies, I recently made a pit stop to the Ann Taylor outlet and got an item that is a new favorite of mine...I lovingly call it my 'grandma sweater' and it's so cozy. 

Ann Taylor chunky cardigan (similar here and here) -- F21 coral colored tee (similar) -- no name boot cut jeans (similar) -- Payless cheetah patent flats (similar) -- thrifted Gap leather belt (similar)

Back view

I adore the color and print of these flats!

Accessories: Lovisa necklace from Australia (similar) -- no name cluster ring (similar)

  

Here are some belated photos from Ping's birthday dinner at Cha Cha Cha!

Birthday dessert

Make a wish!

Girl photo

Random photo but this is one of the best late night eats in my neighborhood...tacos!

  

What is your take on 'grandma' sweaters and how do you motivate yourself to blog on a daily/weekly basis?