who's that girl // no.1

Paging Alyssa Coscarelli, paging Alyssa Coscarelli... 

Who's that girl? She fancies coffee shops in NoLIta + gallery hops on the LES. She's a burgeoning fashionista who favors emerging designers (hey, Sandy Liang, hey) and absurdly cool under-the-radar labels. She's influencing, but not necessarily an influencer. 

K, cool, now that we've got that straight… behold, ze dress of summer (this puff-sleeve number may be a close second in my book) courtesy of Sandy Liang. All hail "Chinatown grandmas" everywhere. I'd RSVP "a million times 'yes'!" to the white daisy print and easy-breezy silo — best accompanied by '90s-inspired jellies or designer Teva-like sandals for a normcore vibe come the weekend. Bring forth a hit of sweet nostalgia with one of The Last Line's layerable BFF pendant necklaces. Angular pink glitter frames over teeny-tiny Matrix frames any day, please. Finishing touches include a minty fresh manicure and a vegetable-tanned leather daypack that successfully marries form and function. For the savvy adventurer, may I recommend a LOST iN travel guide? Vienna waits for you.

Shop the lewk (clockwise): Sandy Liang Picasso Floral-print Georgette Dress, Carla Colour Modan Pink Glitter Sunglasses, LOST iN Vienna, Sundays No. 34 Nail Polish, Matine Capucine Daypack in Honey, The Last Line Diamond Best FriendHeart and Flower Pendant Set, Alexa Chung Crystal Wreath Reilly Transparent Juju Shoes 

What's your dream summertime uniform? Let me know in the comments below!

xo,
A

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< peak summer vibes >

 

H to the ello… I'm back. Without being overly chatty, I've missed this little corner of the internet. From the onset, I've always had a "no pressure" approach to blogging. It's supposed to be fun after all. A side hustle that triggers creativity and allows me to share my latest fashion obsessions, outfits, and travels. 

I honestly couldn't have picked a more opportune time to mark my return to blogging. I low-key LIVE (insert praise hands emoji) for the summer months — especially the month of May. Just yesterday, I arrived at the conclusion that a blissful 62 degrees + ☀️ is the quintessential weather situation. Not too cold, not too balmy, but just right. Even though it's technically still spring, I can't help but reach for all my favorite summertime frocks, sandals, and straw bags (eep!).

During a recent excursion to Washington, DC's District Wharf, I stumbled upon a mural that just screamed 'gram me. I also discovered Blue Bottle Coffee (my new fave) and ventured to the top of 12 Stories for rooftop views — accompanied by $8 fries, no less (paying for the view, y'all!). Milk Bar fans? There's one too, in addition to a Dolcezza Gelato and District Doughnut.

 

The outfit: Let's talk about THIS dress. It's Free People… a little bit more boho than my taste, but it's become a summertime staple (peep the sky blue embroidered details). Equal parts easy-breezy and effortless, it's the type of dress that you can toss on and feel like a million bucks. I accessorized with a millennial pink straw circle tote from Clare Vivier (similar) and strappy coral sandals.

What are you most looking forward to this summer? Fun travel plans?! Is there a fashion trend that's piqued your interest? Let me know in the comments below!

xo,
A

2

'murica.

Hey gang, just dropping by to wish everyone a happy Fourth and to share my patriotic #OOTD. I may or may not have also missed blogging just a smidge ;)

Honestly, it really doesn't get any more patriotic than a set of Breton stripes (hello, Madewell x Sézane), amirite? Throw in some vintage Levi's (thrifted at Awoke Vintage) for a lewk that screams US of A. Not photographed are my Cult Gaia Lilleth bag and Comme des Garçons PLAY x Converse high-tops (just snagged the OG ones, natch).  

I really would hate to jinx it, but fingers crossed that I'll be able to get back to blogging regularly soon.

till next time

xo,

A

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how. i. styled. it. // UO. wrap. dress.

 

 

We May'd it. Not only is it finally beginning to feel more and more like spring (err, summer), but it's also a bit of a whirlwind weekend with graduation (not for me, but it's that time!), the Kentucky Derby and Cinco de Mayo all overlapping.

It took long enough, but I've finally abandoned the sheer nude tights for my bare legs. And with that, I celebrate the arrival of wrap dress + juice box season. Seeing as to how it's been 4ever since I've done an #OOTD post, I'm doing a quick rundown of one of my most recent lewks. The good news: The wrap dress in this post is still available (albeit, there's a limited size run) and it's on major sale. #WinWin



Ze dress: Upon stumbling across this long-sleeved ruffle wrap dress at Urban Outfitters, I knew I had to at least try it on. Despite the somewhat mixed reviews online, I actually loved it at first try-on — with a few exceptions. As many have noted, the fabric is a bit on the flimsy side and will need to be re-ironed with each wear. I'll have to check, but I believe I purchased this dress in a size small, so it appears to run TTS (most customers said that it runs large though, so be sure to keep that in mind). With it being a wrap dress, it does take a bit of adjusting to keep everything in place, but it wasn't a deal-breaker. To avoid any potential wardrobe malfunctions, I knotted the wrap front skirt and added a set of Dress Downs (aka, reusable garment weights), should it be extra windy outside. What else? While the daisy motif is super cute, beware that it's only printed on one side which cheapens the dress a bit, IMO. I didn't find the dress clingy — if anything, I found it extremely comfortable and perfect for the balmy temps. Oh! My fave part just may be the subtle ruffled bell sleeves. Cue the heart eyes. 

The lewk: On this particular outing, I kept it simple by styling my navy UO wrap dress with metallic gold oxford flats and a seafoam green crossbody bag. In case you were wondering: Trader Joe's has a v good lemonade juice box (I'm also partial to their apple juice.)

The verdict: Whether you're looking for a carefree summer dress or want to test-drive the wrap dress trend on a budget, I would 10/10 recommend this UO ruffled stunner that's currently available in three different colorways. For just under $20, this dress would be great for an outdoor sporting event, especially if you only plan on getting one wear out of it. Pro tip: Be sure to DL the Urban Outfitters app for additional savings (maybe) or at the very least to rack up points with their somewhat new-ish loyalty program.

Should you want to splurge on a wrap dress (cough, Ganni, cough), I've rounded up a few of my favorites below:

1. Tilden Tulip Mesh Wrap Dress in Vanilla Ice (Ganni) // Dem orange tulips.

2. The Alexandra in Navy Star (Réalisation Par) // Style influencer-approved, summer-ready.

3. Lucky Dress (Reformation) // "Never met a wrap dress I didn't like." 'Nuff said.
 
What's your favorite way to style a wrap dress for summer? Comment below! :)

xo,
A

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roygbiv. sweater.

Spring is SO close, yet so far away…

I can’t believe that I’m admitting this, but I’ve actually been enjoying the cold spell that's been wreaking havoc on most of the east coast. WHO AM I?!?! While I’m a self-proclaimed summer girl through and through, there’s something to be said about the final push of blustery, cold air before spring takes over. (Although, don’t be mistaken, Virginia has become notorious for its unsettled sprinter-like weather.) Not to mention that it legitimately gives me an excuse to reach for all my beloved winter sweaters at least a handful more times.
 
Speaking of #sweaterweather, can we please talk about this happiness-inducing ROYGBIV number? It was an Anthropologie find from a new-to-me brand called Essentiel Antwerp, and it's basically the equivalent of a very stylish security blanket. While the oversized fits gives it a boho-chic feel, it's the Instagram-approved rainbow stripes that initially won me over. I kid you not — I can't wear it w/o smiling ear to ear. 

How I styled my trophy sweater: Typically with skinny jeans and smoking slippers, but I've also teamed it alongside a denim zip-front mini and suede ankle boots for a girlier vibe. These snaps were taken post-bomb cyclone craziness, but trust that it was nippy out — hence the need to document this look on two separate outings.
 
I don't know how y'all feel about scrunchies (err, cringe much?), but I'm all about this resurgence trend. Literally the moment I caught wind that Mansur Gavriel was going to be making scrunchies — three words: vintage Italian silk — I knew I was on board. Though a far cry from MG's perfectly elegant and non-fussy styling, my inner '90s kid couldn't turn down the chance to rock an extra AF sequin scrunchie. And so, a high-ponytail, it was.



 
Shop the look: stripe sweater (different, but I like this one for spring!) | frayed hem jeans (similar) | velvet loafers (similar) | sequin scrunchie (similar)

What are you most looking forward to about spring? Comment below!

xo,
A

2

ix. art. park.

Sometimes an outfit inspires the venue for blog post shoots or sometimes vice versa. In lieu of my traditional spots — a random street alley, an exposed brick wall, a charming stoop in Georgetown — I had the perfect backdrop for this particular #OOTD in mind. For those who aren't familiar with the Charlottesville area, the IX Art Park functions as a public-space-turned-art-park located just minutes away from the downtown mall. There are murals to be admired, restaurants and cute coffee (and cupcake!) shops to be enjoyed, in addition to concerts and events for the community.

Can I just say that once again, Madewell came through with the quintessential cropped sweatshirt? It's the type of pullover you reach for without hesitation and somehow still look the definition of ~effortless~ chic. Team it with a snap-front denim mini or frayed hem jeans for a uniform that says "trying, but not trying too hard." Y'all know that's what I'm here for. My only complaint — and it's a minor one — is that Vienna wasn't included in the grand tour of cities featured. Womp, womp.

Now onto the details. Between my *wink* mani (which I'm still obsessed with) and assortment of pretty rings, it's the itty-bitty add-ons that really make this look my own. If you're looking for a streamlined timepiece besides Daniel Wellington, allow me to put Linjer on your radar. As of lately, the brand's minimalist rose/gold watch has been in heavy rotation (it looks stunning with both heavy knits and blouses alike). Throw in my favorite triangle opal ring and stackable kitty ring for instant eye candy. The heart necklace from Ban.do was a last-minute addition that I thought was fitting, given my love for travel (err, more like wanderlust). 

You might have remembered when I blogged about these exact Comme des Garçons x Converse high-tops at the beginning of summer. Well, said kicks have since been inducted into my wardrobe, and they're easily a statement piece in their own right. I especially love wearing them with denim skirts, which I've done here for a high-impact look that requires minimal effort.

Shop the look: white slogan sweatshirt (different, but here's another rad sweatshirt) | denim a-line mini (similar) | minimalist rose/gold mocha watch (Linjer) | triangle opal ring (Emily Warden Designs) | lovecats ring (Catbird) | heart-shaped necklace (found a pink one on Poshmark!) | seafoam green crossbody bag (different, but obsessed with this mint green crossbody) | hidden heart high top sneaker (PLAY x Converse Chuck Taylor)

What does your weekend uniform consist of? Comment below with your favorite fall style essentials!
 
xo,
A

1

vintage. stripes.

Fall, as we know it, is knocking on our door. The leaves are changing. Snaps of apple orchards and weekend excursions to the pumpkin patch have slowly been taking over my Insta feed. The only thing missing? In lieu of fall weather, we've been experiencing a bit of an Indian summer here lately. Although, to be fair, Virginia is known for its notoriously mild October temps.
 
Lemme tell you, these vintage Levi's cutoffs have been the real MVP as of late. Since the onset of summer, I made it my mission to uncover a pair of perfectly broken-in Levi's in a light wash with minimal distressing. (See inspiration a la the one and only Amy Stone here.) Don't ask me to explain the difference the between a pair of 501s or 505s (couldn't tell ya if I tried!), but best believe the scavenger hunt to find the quintessential cutoffs is worth it in the end. Seeing as to how I'm new to this thrifting business, I hit up Urban Outfitters' Urban Renewal line for some reworked Levi's. I recommend checking in store for best selection and to ensure that you're getting exactly what you bargained for. Each pair is unique, so distressing and washes vary.

Can we talk about this rad striped blouse by College Town for a sec? It also just so happens to be a thrifted piece that I picked up at a local vintage shop. After not purchasing it the first time I saw it (despite trying it on and falling in love with it immediately), I knew it was meant to be when it was still waiting for me on BOGO Wednesday (yes, I also ended up snagging a granny-meets-Alexa-Chung-esque floral embroidered cardigan as well). Between the retro stripes and flouncy collar detail, what's there not to love?

As far as throwback trends go, get ready to cringe. And cringe hard. I'm officially back on the scrunchie bandwagon — and I have Mansur Gavriel's fall 2017 presentation to thank for that. Who knew an effortless low-slung pony could look so utterly elegant and, dare I say it, non-fussy? Not I. To add that extra zhoosh factor, I secured my ponytail with an extra AF sequin scrunchie, and voila. Man Repeller status = accomplished.

Moving forward, I cannot wait to style my trusty Levi's with an oversized knit sweater and Chelsea boots. #OOTD snaps to come or it didn't happen...

What's the best thing you've ever thrifted? Comment below!
 
xo,
A

4

game. set. match.

YOU GUYS (all caps to get your attention)!! I’m pumped to finally be sharing this #OOTD with you. Every summer, there tends to be a rotation of dresses (some old, some new) that I gravitate toward for a slew of outings. You could say this lovely Free People frock is one of ‘em. Call me overly sentimental, but something tells me that this is a dress that I’ll look back at fondly for years (and years) to come. Yes, it’s obviously super femme and the definition of festi-cool — I think I could actually see myself frolicking in a field of wild daisies for a Free People-esque shoot — but there’s a certain je ne sais quoi quality about it that speaks volumes about my personal style these days.

Admittedly, the choker-neck style (it’s still growing on me!) and exaggerated sleeves were a smidge outside my comfort zone, but you only embrace your inner flower child once — amirite?! I proceeded to layer it over a lovely lace bralette and toss on my go-to huaraches from Madewell for a considerably boho lewk. Other details to love: namely that airy open back (keep scrollin’ to see the details), the subtle pleats and of course the sweet floral print.

Speaking of outfit snapshots, I started out at the tennis court before venturing downtown for additional action shots. Fellow bloggers (and aesthetes alike), take note: Tennis courts make for a v aesthetically pleasing backdrop. I could photograph the crisp white lines and blue/green asphalt (color palette of my dreams) for days.

 

 

free people tegan mini dress (or similar) | mini cross-body bag (different color) | huaraches (sold out, but similar)

What are your favorite summertime statement pieces? Comment below! 

xo,
A

4

best. of. glastonbury. style.

While Glastonbury Festival may have come and gone in a flash, I’m naturally still drooling over all the fab fashion sightings. Despite never having attended Glastonbury, I’ve come to associate the British music festival with a certain waxed field jacket (does Barbour ring a bell?) and a parade of rainy day wellies that come out rain or shine. Sure, there’s still your typical festival-going attire (OTT sequins! Glitter-sprayed cheeks! Shimmery piñata-inspired fringe!), but once again the Londoners have turned out in full force gracing us with their sartorial greatness. Have I piqued your interest yet? Keep on scrolling for a highlight reel of some of my favorite looks from the Instagram sphere.

1. Classic Glasto uniform // Could Sophia Rosemary Barrese be any more perf? Nope. She’s got that classic Glasto uniform down to a science, and I’m low-key loving it. Translation: I would wear this head-to-toe getup to fall harvest in a heartbeat. But ~news flash~ wouldn’t we all? (via @sophia_rosemary)

2. Ghetto superstar: I call this look “when you’re glam AF and you know it.” Slay on with a pair of your own rockstar shades, an accompanying day dress and *perfect* windswept hair. (via @kararosemarshall) 

3. Daytime metallics rule supreme // Switch out the editorial-ready Barbour for an off-duty military jacket with rad embroidered patches. Then set it off with a metallic mini, a rocker tee and tough-girl ankle boots for major slayage. (via @shopgirlbella)

4. Yellow rainy day mac: You had me at rubber ducky yellow rainy day mac that requires not a raindrop in the sky. (via @shoeandclothe)

5. Vintage blouse // Alright, alright. I’m about to raid this FASHUN blogger’s closet that’s bound to be chock full of vintage gems like this renaissance fair-inspired blouse. Don’t even get me started about her high-waisted mom shorts and huarache-style sandals. (via @sophia_rosemary)

6. B is for Barbour: Call me crazy, but I imagine more Barbour jacket spottings at Glastonbury than a preppy college town in the south (cough, Charlottesville, cough). Though best believe the styling in London would be especially exceptional. (via @alexachung)

7. Femme meets tomboy // Now, we’re talking. Maybe I’m a tad biased, but I’ve always been a fan of the whole sneakers-and-dress combo. This gem right here is no exception. (via @c_illidge)

8. An Alexa Chung-esque jumper // YOU GUYS. In case you somehow missed the memo, regional It girl A.Chung recently debuted her namesake clothing line and this whimsical face jumper is included in the collection. Chung models it SO well. (via @alexachung)

9. Back to basics: Dialed down has never looked so RIGHT on the money. Suki Waterhouse shows everyone who’s boss with her stripped-down approach to overdone festival fashion. Frayed hem denim shorts and everyday stripes have never looked so — wait for it — utterly groundbreaking. (via @_springlondon)

 

10. Ditsy floral frock + Hunter boots // And here’s yet anotha stunner lewk from you-guessed-right. There’s something to be said about a ditsy floral dress and some worn-in Hunters that screams savvy London girl in the idyllic English countryside, amirite? (via @sophia_rosemary)

11. Kooky apron dress: ...and that’s a wrap. This Alexa Chung lookalike werks it in her frilly PVC apron dress that’s part cool girl, part rodeo-ready (it must be the fedora and leather ankle boots). (via @josefin_ohrn)

Are you obsessed with Glastonbury fashion? Which style blogger/celeb do you think was best-dressed? 

xo,
A

2

moments. in. RVA.

Before this week’s heat wave arrives — and I proceed to load up on a lifetime of ice pops — I wanted to share one of my latest #OOTDs that’s pretty characteristic of the seasonably ~ cool ~ temps we’ve been having lately. (Nippy mornings and brisk evenings, you will be missed. I promise you that.)

As of lately, Free People’s been my go-to source for one-and-done summer dresses that require (almost) zero effort. See exhibit A: This Free People x CP Shades plaid drop-waist dress featuring a flouncy hem does more than just “get the job done.” But actually. You can go ahead and file this bad boy under what to wear for a low-key coffee shop work sesh or a local museum outing. (Pssst: If you find yourself in Richmond, Virginia this summer, the VMFA currently has an amazing YSL exhibit that's worth checking out.) Team it with suede ankle boots or ankle strap sandals, and you’re good to go for an afternoon of errands. The slightly oversized silhouette and easy-breezy cotton-linen material convey a sense of effortlessness that I’m forever attempting to master on my own. Last, but certainly not least, I hereby dub my light blue Rebecca Minkoff Mini M.A.C. the quintessential weekend bag for any and all aspiring It girls. You heard it first.

dress (sold out, but here's another cute Free People x CP Shades collab piece) | mini m.a.c. | sandals (different, but I love these ankle-tie boardwalk sandals)

What are your go-to summer staples? Comment below!

xo,
A

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