individually abby

Blazer: Zara | Turtleneck: Mossimo | Jeans: Madewell | Boots: Andiamo | Jewelry: JewelMint, Madewell | Bag: Steven by Steve Madden

I've been pushing myself to invest in more layering pieces, especially blazers. Most people who know me know that I am a cardigan girl through and through. So it has been hard to break those chains. This blazer is very out-there with the crazy print, but I loved it at first sight. It can be worn as a focus piece by playing down the rest of the outfit in basic black. I've also pulled it together with other prints to make a fun mixed-print look. The best thing about the blazer is the tuxedo trim...very of-the-moment. When shopping, look for interesting tuxedo styled blazers or pants to update your look.

My wonderful sister turned 30 in December, and to celebrate her birthday we took a road trip to New Orleans. I've been to this historic city before, but more as a pass through, so I was exciting to see the sites and go out on Bourbon Street. Once we got there, we started the site-seeing straight away. First, we started at St. Louis Cathedral, which had the most amazing ceiling art.














And of course site-seeing also involves some great people watching. Who doesn't love human statues?














Second on the list was the infamous Saint Louis Cemetery, which definitely could be scary for the night tours.












Night-time activities included lots of drinking and dancing the night away on Bourbon Street.



The city was truly amazing, and I was sad to leave. We will definitely be going back. And of course, on our way out, I found myself a little boxer stuffed animal that reminded me of my loves back home. :)

Faux Fur Jacket: Mossimo (old, similar here and here) | Sweater: Gap | Corduroy Pants: Madewell | Shoes: Nine West | Earrings: JewelMint

Leopard is definitely my favorite of the animal print variety. I love that you can almost wear it with anything because it incorporates both brown and black. I've had this jacket for years, and my husband always makes fun of me when I pull it out of the coat closet. It is ridiculously comfortable and warm...usually just want to curl up and take a nap in it. Today's outfit was focused around the leopard print in my shoes and the jacket, so I kept the rest of my outfit pretty basic.

Shirt: Madewell | Jeans: Madewell | Boots: Andiamo | Bag: Steven by Steve Madden

The moment I saw this blouse, I knew it had to be mine. Luckily I have a wonderful husband who had this under the tree for me at Christmas. Polka dots have been a huge trend this past season: any size and every fabrication you can think of. I love that this blouse incorporates not only the ultra-trendy dot but an updated tuxedo style front. This item is timeless and will definitely stay in my wardrobe for multiple seasons to come. What do you think?

Blazer: Diane von Furstenberg | Dress: JCrew | Tights: Hue | Shoes: Dolce Vita | Necklace: F21

I try to utilize my wardrobe the best I can by transitioning some pieces all year long; especially dresses. Wearing tights is the best way to make your dresses last longer in the colder months. This is one of my favorite dresses and because it is solid I thought a pair of patterned tights would add some interest. Something neutral works best due to the bright color of the dress. There are a ton of great tight designs out in stores right now...from floral to stripes. See below for some of my favorites...

Utility Jacket: Old Navy (old, great option) | Shirt: Madewell | Jeans: Gap | Sneakers: Target | Jewelry: Madewell

The utility jacket is a very universal piece. It can be worn super casual or even as an interesting element for a more dressed-up look. Plus, it never really goes out of style so you can spend a little more to get some fun features. Mine, however, is ridiculously old...not loving the pink trim so much. :)

Saturday could not come soon enough, and I was glad to spend time with my family. My husband and I decided we needed to get our workout routine back in gear, so we started the day by walking our dogs and then heading to the gym. I of course brought out my favorite sneakers for afternoon errands.

One of the guests brought the most amazing cupcakes...delightful! I mean seriously, who can make something that looks like this? One goal for 2013, amp up the cooking/baking skills.


 Me and my awkward party face...social situations always make me nervous. Glad to close out 2012 with friends and looking forward to what 2013 will bring. Hope everyone had a great NYE!!!