The Midi Skirt

Sweater Old Navy // Midi Skirt (obsessed! And only $20?!) here // Shoes CathyJean // Necklace Target // Earrings here // Lips MAC Russian Red // Nails Essie I'm Strong //

I found this lovely red midi after receiving a request from a fantastic blog follower with a dilemma. In the summer, she loves her maxi skirt but struggles to make it winter ready. Here is my solution--allow me to introduce you to the midi skirt. 

Now, don't get me wrong fashion friends, you can definitely find me rockin a maxi skirt in the summer, but using this piece in the (Buffalo) winter posed a lot of problems for me. Naturally, my first thought it what shoes would I wear. Maxi skirts look great with sandals {wedge to gladiator} but not so much with a boot or stiletto. Length of course plays a factor, but I think it is the fabric that presents the biggest hurdle. Most maxi skirts are made from cotton or linen, such a summer fabric. Of course, depending on the skirt, maxi skirts are often full of bright colors and loud floral patterns--again perfect for summer.

Since I didn't want to abandon the skirt trend, how could you right? I found the perfect solution--hello MIDI! The fabric, the color, the length... just perfect for winter. Easy to dress up with a stiletto and some fabulous jewels, but also easy to wear with ballet flats and a t-shirt (yes like a 'hi, I borrowed this from my husband's closet' t-shirt).

...must I add, how can you pass up such a great deal for only $20!? The hardest part is choosing the right color! Oh, so Polished.

Hope this helps! Much love,

--Kelsey

PS Follow us on Instagram @KelseyMKipp and @Courtney_m_B 

#WHATIWORE

While at work, I am often guilty of sneaking a selfie of my outfit of the day. Fashion is a great distraction from all of the work I am suppose to be doing, right? To be honest, I find wearing a great high heel makes it easier to walk into my next meeting (yawn). It helps to feel Polished and fabulous!

Thank you for all who ask about my outfit details on Instagram. Today, I am giving the details you asked for! Keep them coming, I am LOVE LOVE LOVING checking my Instagram for all your comments :)   

// Red Pants Old Navy // Shoes Cathy Jean //

Leather Sleeved Blazer Target (love this version too)

Sweater Limited (final sale $15) // Necklace OASAP //

// Earrings OASAP // 

 // Floral Chambray Old Navy //

Thanks for stopping by! Keep following on Instagram 

@KelseyMKipp and @Courtney_m_B

--Kelsey

{Not Too} Casual Friday

First, let's talk about what causal is NOT--casual does not mean sloppy. Or lazy, messy, dirty, undone, mismatched, or, the most overly misused word, "comfortable"--basically... casual does not mean UNPolished. 

So, to begin we are banning all yoga pants, sweatshirts, and gym sneakers from Casual Friday attire. Also, add logo or print t-shirts and hoodies (especially, ones that look like are your husband's) and, must I add... pajama pants to the list. All rules have an exception-a jersey, for example. If you are a sports fan and are supporting your local team ON game day, then do it! But, Polish it off with all of the right accessories--which, could be another post.

You may be wondering, what is the definition of Casual Friday?

Causal Friday implies swapping your trousers or pencil skirt for a pair of fit flattering denim, yes to be more "comfortable", but not mistaken for an 'overslept-have no time to get ready employee'. You may kick off the stiletto pumps and opt for a pair of ballet flats or knee high boots. Even, add a bouffant pony tail rather than your well-kept curls. Or, go for a more natural make-up look by losing the glitter eye shadow and using a peachy blush.

 

Hear me out... Causal Friday attire does differ from your work week basics--just ever so slightly! However, you are still AT WORK, and so is your boss. So, let's dress like it!

Jacket here -- and now on sale! // Top from Express-not sold online but similar here  // Denim here // Necklace from andRuby but also here // Bracelet Old Navy (no jewelry online) and Brina Box // Shoes (obsessed) from Cathy Jean // Bag (old) Olivia and Joy //

What makes a Polished Causal Friday outfit?
A) Heels-I will say it again...they are magical! Instantly, they dress-up any outfit, especially one for the office. Adding a pop of color keeps these beauties "fun" enough for a Casual Friday look, but still work appropriate--just the right height & a closed toe.

B) Blazer-What is more professional than a jacket? A suit jacket is a classic work piece. However, choosing a boxy crop cut **in plaid** makes it work appropriate, while staying trendy.

C) Dark Denim-We all should own our fair share of boyfriend destroyed denim, right? Reserve those for weekends. Dark Denim is the "dressy" denim. Select denim that is dark all-over color, not the white-bleached area around the thighs and bottom.

Seeing a trend... professional and appropriate?! All of these pieces are made for work (heels, jackets, good fitting pants), but have a trendy twist (pop of color, plaid, a bow on a classic heel), making this combination the best way to walk into work on Fridays.
 

 

P.S. Don't forget about patterned or colored denim, as these are both great options for a Casual Friday look.

 

Thanks for stopping by! Please feel free to add a comment sharing your favorite Casual Friday tips!

 

--Kelsey