Twofer One :: The Faux Leather Skirt

So I'm a clothes horse. In every sense of the phrase. I qualify shopping as a hobby (my husband does not, but it's fine). It's the thrill of the hunt [sales and unique pieces], keeping an eye on trends and creating outfits for me. It makes me so happy and I love it. True story: I've never worn the same combo of clothes and shoes to work in 11 1/2 years. I have a rotating catalog in my head not unlike Cher's closet in Clueless.

This brings me to a new series of posts: one piece of clothing, worn two ways. A twofer if you will. You don't have to spend a ton of money to look fresh AF. I'll spend it for the both of us. ;) This will be fun, so stay tuned!

First up: this faux leather pleated skirt. I realize that leather (faux or otherwise) may not be for everyone. You can substitute it for any mid-length skirt, really.

This skirt is a deep chocolate brown and can be paired with so many different colors!

OUTFIT 1

I paired this with a simple, cream long-sleeve top. I got it at Target for less than $10. A bodysuit would look really good too. The skirt isn't form-fitting, so I prefer to wear a tighter top with this look. I'm also wearing a knee-high black boot. You could wear this outfit to the office and it would transition to dinner/drinks after like a glove. The faux leather is already a bolder move, but the slit isn't necessarily noticeable...unless you want it to be.

OUTFIT 2

I paired this look with a white sweater and tucked it in to add shape. I'm also wearing a black patent leather heel. This outfit is probably a touch more professional.

I already owned each of the separate pieces. The key to being able to mix and match, is having inexpensive staple items: neutral sweaters and tees/tops, heels and boots. As trends rotate, I make sure to have heels, boots and flats in all the neutral/go-with-anything colors: brown, camel and black.

Each piece of clothing doesn't have to break the bank either. I shop at Target, H&M, Nordstrom Rack, Abercrombie, TJ Maxx and Old Navy for basics (tees, tanks, etc.). Most of those stores have trendy dresses and bottoms too. My big ticket items are usually boots, coats and handbags. I usually plan for splurge items during a Nordstrom Anniversary Sale. I very rarely buy anything full price.

I will acknowledge that a lot of people don't like to shop (which is blasphemous!). But I think it's because the act of finding and trying on clothes is energy sucking. Because they don't feel good in the clothes. You should feel like fire in your clothes. They are such an expression of who you are. By no means am I trying to convert the "I'd rather stand on a busy freeway and dodge traffic" than shop-ers. But if I can make styling your wardrobe a little easier, then call me pumped.