Peek A Boo- Statement skirt

I am all about this skirt! I've had a thing for cut outs, sheer panels, and mesh everything for the last couple of years but haven't purchased many pieces because I try not to spend my coins on such trendy items. I also think it takes special designers to understand how to work with these trends because they can look tacky and trashy if not done tastefully. I was tired of waiting for the perfect time, so decided to break this baby out with some basics to be a fun everyday outfit.

 I love this skirt because it is versatile, breathable, and definitely makes a statement. It looks cool with simple basics, but you could also pair this with a great pair of heels, blazer, and lacy top to have a high fashion look. I'll definitely be holding onto this one.

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Its bright out in sunny Los Angeles, wear your Dita's.

Get the Look/// Amanda Uprichard loves Cusp Skirt , Modern Vice Studded Bootie (harness removed) , J. Crew striped tank, Level 99 Jean Vest, Dita "Starling" Cat Eye Sunnies ///

Subtle Plaid

For those of us 27 year olds that don't want to reinvent wardrobe choices from "My So Called Life" with the fabulous but sometimes sloppy looking plaid trend, more subtle options are available and still just as stylish. I am a fan of basically any way to wear plaid: the super 90's flannel around the waist style (it really helps to camouflage some areas with the added benefit of being a great accessory thats in style!), or worn on bottoms to add a "No Doubt" flare to your outfit. I love how you can mix and match plaids in one outfit with other prints and it still looks cool and put together.  If you prefer to be more understated, wear it like I did here in a calm muted print with a pretty tunic front tucked. If you want to me more "loud", find inspiration below from some of the latest runway looks featuring this current favorite.

I love Candice's off duty style. Its easy and effortless but still looks cool. I am particularly fond of those boots!
If you are going to wear short shorts, boots with a bit of an opening are best to flatter the shape of your legs.

I love how the blouse is simple enough to not steal too much attention from the pants, but
 also has that fun ethnic feel to bring in a different style and not feel too much like a "theme".
I don't want to look like I am trying to dress like anyone or copy runway looks, but instead
 incorporate my own personal style with trends I am fond of and want to try.

This look is perfect for just about anything. Drinks with friends, date night out, meetings, etc.
These woven cut out booties are oldies but goodies by Elizabeth and James and have been worn
to death but still look amazing on. Invest in pieces you LOVE because quality is much more
important than quantity. If you don't love it, don't buy it. Save your shekels for things you love.

Get the look: Nanette Lepore Blouse, Ecru plaid pants

Im a big fan of the first four outfits and the last in this compilation.... the fifth is not really wearable in my opinion.
I love the layering of these different sized and colored plaid patterns from this Dries Van Noten show last year!
Still in style and still on point.

Loving this compilation! I could see some of my uber trendy and fabulous model friends wearing
this middle look, while I would definitely be more apt to go with the first look. I love the fun print
on such a classy and flattering fit dress. Its beautiful and stylish. Whats your favorite way to wear plaid?

Knit Wit

I know I'm not the only one sick and tired of this 5 month summer. I think the majority of Southern Californian fashion freaks are with me when I say  "Bring on the freakin' Fall!" Chunky knits, beanies, cozy oversized coats and boots up the "wazooo" are just a few of my favorite fall things.  I love this look (I rushed to put on when the marine layer rolled in over Manhattan Beach) because its easy, comfortable, and has that 70's touch that we all love!

As predicted, I am wearing my Liz Goziak horn necklace because it prettty much
 goes with everything to add a touch of funk

You'll be shocked to find out this fabulously cool navy blue wide brim hat is from GAP!!
I wear it constantly and it really perks up any basic outfit... People ask constantly where its from
thinking its more expensive than it was. Pairing designer items with more affordable ones enhances
the whole look,  leaving people thinking the whole darn outfit was a fortune
 (which is not the objective, but hey, what momma don't know don't hurt her ;))

Outfit details : Level 99 Flare leg jean, Gap hat (from a few seasons ago) but here is one similar : Old Navy Wide Brim, Nanette Lepore knit

GET THE LOOK FOR LESS: ASOS FINDS

PHOTOS COURTESY OF ASOS.COM

EDITING ADDED

I chose some of my favorite sweaters to achieve a similar look for waaaay less. All of these sweaters are  a fraction of the cost of the Nanette Lepore one I am wearing featured above.  I love ASOS for their on point garments that follow the trends and deliver great and affordable clothes. When in doubt, ASOS is a great way to go!