September 5, 2012

Today's Everyday Fashion: Paper Dolls


In place of a regular outfit post today, I decided to pull these three outfit "flops" out for fun! I'm all for playing around in your closet to come up with new combinations, but the reality is that I can't always figure out how exactly to re-create something the first time around. (See this post: "If Fashion Mistakes are Wrong, I Don't Want to be Right") These are three outfits that were cute, but I wanted to go back and make changes to them to make them even better. Let's examine and see what things we want to change, shall we? (You can think of it like playing paper dolls!)

Outfit 1: The peplum in the inspiration photo is gorgeous! I like the top and skirt together in my outfit, but might ditch the yellow and red accessories for a simple black shoe and metallic necklace or earrings instead.

Outfit 2: My favorite of the three, and one of the first inspiration photos I ever saved (from J.Crew), I love the combination of the pea green cardigan and yellow necklace in my version. I like the outfit for a casual occasion but would switch to flat sandals or loafers and/or a darker brown belt.


Outfit 3: I love these three colors together, but J.Crew makes it look preppy while my look is way more of an '80s rockstar. Switching to a nude sandal or pump would help tone it down a lot.

So let's hear it - which outfit is your favorite or least favorite? What changes would you make to these looks?

80 comments:

  1. I think outfit #2 looks wonderful and that it would look equally as wonderful with flats.  I love stark white with other neutrals and brights.

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  2. i love the first look! that blouse is gorgeous!

    www.modernsuburbanites.blogspot.com

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  3. Love the 1st outfit and I like the red shoes however I would add a red belt and switch the necklace. 

    Outfit #3 is also great but I agree the shoes do make it look like you should be on stage on Rock of Ages. I would change to pink ballet slippers for more of a preppy look :) 

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  4. I tell my friends all the time to not be afraid of their closet or their fashion failures. Sometimes things just don't work.  But you'll never know if you don't try.

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  5. Loooove the second outfit!  #1 looks great on you but I agree on switching to black accessories.  I would totally wear #2, most likely with some boat shoes.  In fact, I would go with boat shoes for #3 as well, but that might just be due to my current obsession with them ;)

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  6. I think outfit #2 is my favorite because all the colors worn together look really great and I am obsessed with gray worn with brown shades!   #1, the necklace interferes with the ruffles a bit, so I would probably wear long earrings instead or if wearing a necklace, a simple chunky gold chain choker would be nice!  #3 is really cute, except for the pink.  Nude shoes and skipping a belt altogether would be really great and simple!  The belt is slightly too hot pink for those shades, but a peachy colored belt may work better if wanting to add a 3rd color to that look.  But #2 seriously rocks and you look amazing in that style outfit!  It suits you well! 

    http://easyoutfitsbypip.blogspot.com

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  7. Just wanted you to know that I've been reading your blog for about 4 days now. . . I've read through the entire table of Contents and have really been loving it all. I am Fashion impaired. But you have given me the inspiration to try! I've been looking at and collecting pictures of fashion for fall. I went shopping yesterday and brought my pieces home and began trying them on and taking pictures of what went together well! It truly is a skill. I thought people just were naturally talented at it. I know I am already getting better at it, just knowing what I've learned from your blog.Thanks so much!!

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  8. Books, Beauty & BarsSeptember 5, 2012 at 9:50 AM

    I'd have to say the last one is my least favorite, but I can't believe you consider the other two flops! I adore the second outfit, and wouldn't change a thing, and the first one is so creative! Love it :)


    http://booksbeautyandbars.blogspot.com/

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  9. I kind of like the chucky wedge sandles to balance out the big purse in outfit #2. Probably because I have a similar pair which I just love and try to wear often as I can this summer :). Totally agree with the other changes. Thanks for helping me step out of my comfort zone...I never thought I would want to go shopping for bright green pants.

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  10.  I love the pop of yellow in the first outfit..I don't think I would change a thing about it!!

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  11. loving the second look on you!  looks great and laid back!

    xx Amy
      Leopard and Lillies

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  12. I like all 3 outfits. If i had to pick i would pick the first one, but ditch the necklace. I love the second outfit, but maybe change the color of the cardigan. Good recreations.

    Agi:)

    vodkainfusedlemonade.wordpress.com

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  13. The third outfit is my favorite and I couldn't agree more with your idea to switch to a nude pump. I actually really like the second outfit a lot, too, and I don't know if I'd change anything.

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  14. I love all three outfits, but I agree about the third: switch to a nude pump. I'm SO happy to see that first photo - I have the top but have only worn it once (with jeans) because I've been clueless on how to wear it. Pairing it with cobalt? So easy! Nice choice! I will be copying you soon :) Thanks!!

    http://ajourneyinstyle.blogspot.com

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  15. I think they all look great, J! The first look is definitely my favorite but I agree about switching out the necklace to a metallic. I like the red shoes with it!

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  16. I love that you share outfits that you didn't quite love, and what you'd change about them. I love that last look, and I think you're right, a neutral shoe would be perfect! 

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  17. This totally made my day! I have the same story - I used to think that people were just born with a skill that made them stylish but I really think anyone can do it, and that practice makes perfect. Thanks for sharing your story with me, and I'm so glad you like the blog! :-)

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  18. I love the idea of boat shoes with #3! So creative and would definitely make that look more preppy.

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  19. Yes I totally agree, that is great advice! I added a link to my "If Fashion Mistakes are Wrong, I Don't Wnat to be Right" article to this post: http://www.jseverydayfashion.com/2012/01/if-fashion-mistakes-are-wrong-i-dont.html

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  20. hey everyone check out my blog http://goo.gl/PXxH7 

    And I love J's Blog check it everyday

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  21. I actually LOVE the first outfit. I don't think it's a flop at all! I love it!

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  22. I love the third outfit the best.  To give it a more preppy look, I would wear a button down baby blue cotton shirt (similar to the J Crew perfect shirt or Ralph Lauren button down shirt) if I did not have a cable knit sweater like in the J Crew inspiration photo.  I do agree that I would switch out the pink heels with a nude heel or wedge.
     
    The second outfit is great as is.  Other options I would consider may be only changing out the wedges to simple tan flats with minimal straps; removing the belt and pairing the outfit with loafers like gold Sperry Topsiders or simple nude loafers; or pairing the outfit with a leopard print pointy flat.
     
    For the first outfit,  I don't mind the red shoe for a pop of contrasting colour, but I would not wear any necklace because I feel there is enough ruffle in the blouse.  I love the style of clutch you are holding, but I would change the colour of it to a muted metallic one (like silvery grey) or a dark one (like dark grey or navy).

    coverupchic.blogspot.ca

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  23. love them all - that first look really does it for me!!!

    **enter my FREE GIVEAWAY**
    sarahsavvystyle.com

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  24. Love the blue pencil skirt outfit - FABULOUS! 

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  25. I actually love the first outfit too! And I agree about the last outfit on the pumps...love those colors together!

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  26. Love that you posted these and how u would change.

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  27. I love the last outfit! Colored skinny jeans are high on my list of things to try right now, and I love the colors you put together. Mad props to you for putting what you like (and don't like) out there for your readers. There's this idea that to be a fashion blogger, every outfit must be "perfect." That is sooooo not true! I love to see a real person trying new things and mixing it up!

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  28. The second outfit is my favorite! For the third outfit, I'd switch to nude heels and swap the shirt for a classic blue and white pinstripe with rolled sleeves to make it more relaxed. 

    Thank you for putting your website up! You're helping this fashionably-stunted woman!

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  29. Love #2 - I think brown loafers or flats would look adorable!

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  30.  oh for God's sake J, these outfits are everything but flops, love them anyways !

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  31. I love the color combo of the last outfit as well but I would switch to a pink flat or loafer and keep the top blue but make it a button down to keep the preppy look going. LOVE green skinny jeans tho. They are def on my shopping to-do list. 

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  32. I think most of the outfits work as they are.  I would definitely keep the pops of color in the top outfit...toning it down would be boring.  The middle one is a great classic that I fully intend to copy and while I can see a nice nude pump with the bottom...I would think it would make it more easter going that route versus the look you have going.  As usual...love them all.

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  33. I like all three, but the 1st is probably my favorite.  That outfit, I think, could be successfully accessorized so many different ways.  LOVE your blog and the ideas it has given me.  By the way, I theorize that my love of fashion began with Barbie and paper doll outfits.

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  34. These are flops?  Then I must be floppy.  Where can I get the blue skirt with top you're wearing in picture 1, white jeans in picture 2 and pink heels (or similar) in picture 3?

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  35. Haha Alice! Blue skirt is from Limited, white jeans are from Gap about 3 years ago, and the pink heels are Colin Stuart, found for a steal at MJR Sales.

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  36. Where is your top from in the 1st pic with blue pencil skirt? Too cute!

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  37. It is from Limited - you can see it another outfit post here: http://www.jseverydayfashion.com/2012/06/todays-everyday-fashion-mixing-prints.html

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  38. Thanks for the tip on MJRsales.com. I had never heard of them before and they have some great stuff at AWESOME prices!!!

    www.fatandfierce.com

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  39. I am newly obsessed with your blog J! You have a GREAT sense of fashion and I LOVE the outfits you put together especially the colors! I actually like all of these outfits! Number one is my fav! love the top! Where is it from?

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  40. I like outfit 1 J! I 100% agree on removing the ketchup and mustard colors/accessories from the look! :) Love today's posting!

    Xo http://shesaidhesaid-fashion.blogspot.com/

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  41. I love that you take te time and really think about how you can change what you wore and make it better. Great post. www.dreamboat.com

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  42. oh do i really have to pick one favorite?!? I love all the outfits! Love the pop of color with the blue pencil skirt. Outfits 2 & 3 are outfits i would definitely wear to work. Although I work in such a dusty, dirty construction environment, I would hate to ruin my heels so I'd probably just use my pink Toms or Toms wedges...Thanks again for all the inspiration!!

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  43. I agree that red shoes aren't the best choice for the first outfit.  More neutral accessories would really make that outfit look even more classy!

    The second outfit looks just fine to my eye, though.  But I can see why you would prefer a flatter sandal since it's for a more casual outing.

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  44. Where did you get the blue skirt in outfit one, I LOVE it!

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  45. You really do such an amazing job. I am always inspired every time I visit!

    Cheers.

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  46. You look great!

    Zepequeña.

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  47. Just saw your show from this morning on WE, I dvr'd it and couldn't wait to watch it.  You did a great job!  I love the outfits you put together - I can't get enough - you really inspire me!

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  48. Love these outfits!!! :) Especially the last one!

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  49. pretty little thingsSeptember 5, 2012 at 6:37 PM

    outfit #2 is my fav! I'm actually going to try to recreate a similar look myself! xo

    http://allthingsprettyandlittle.blogspot.com/

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  50. #2!  So I can wear white after Labor Day?  :)

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  51. I really like both 1 and 2!!

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  52. Love outfit 2, would not consider it a flop at all!

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  53. Yes I totally would! I like to go by weather, not date. :-)

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  54. Steph that skirt is from Limited last spring! 

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  55. Thank you and welcome to the blog! That top is from Limited, you can see it in another outfit here: http://www.jseverydayfashion.com/2012/06/todays-everyday-fashion-mixing-prints.html

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  56. Love Number 1...where is that top from?

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  57. You have such great taste! x

    http://crystaldots.com/

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  58. Hi!  I've been following your blog for about a week now (found through Pinterest), and I enjoy it.  I'm trying to be a little more imaginative with my wardrobe.  :)  Question (not really related to this post) - would you ever do a blog entry about how to wear a specific piece of clothing, as requested by a follower? If so, how would you prefer we ask the question (with picture)?   I admit sometimes I buy something fabulous, but then I am a bit clueless as to how to wear it and wouldn't mind some helpful suggestions!  Thanks!

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  59. Love the first outfit!

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  60. #1 is my favorite.  I think for #3 - I have to agree with you.

    Alice
    www.happinessatmidlife.com

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  61. I really like outfit #2. I would wear it in a heartbeat. Outfit #1 is too "primary colors" for my taste.

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  62. I really like outfit 1, outfit 2 I loved at first, but I think there are too many tan accessories. Outfit 3, I think part of the charm is the cable knit jumper, and maybe for the shoes you could do converse?

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  63. I heart outfit 2, but would switch heels for some flat sandals in summer and maybe moccasin loafer type shoe. I would have to change the csrdigan as well since olive green is not a good color for me. I also liked outfit 3 as well, just different shoes.

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  64. I think I like outfit 3 the best,but I would wear it with ballet flats and my jean jacket.

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  65. Beautiful! My fave is #2! The yellow and pea green work so well together!

    XO Monica
    monismix.blogspot.com

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  66. I love the first outfit! I actually have a blue skirt just like that which I have not been able to think of what to pair it with. Now I know! :) 

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  67. First look: I'm with you: I'd wear black pumps instead and lose the necklace as well as the clutch. I'd add a black clutch instead. Done: simple and chic.
    Second look: I think you should get rid of the belt and the bag. As much as I love cognac accessories, I think they don't go with this look at all. The focus should be on the great combination of yellow and green, so I wouldn't wear any brown or cognac accessories at all and stick with simple grey flats instead.

    Third look: I'm sorry, I don't really like it at all. I'm digging the inspiration photo but I don't think the pants and sweater work together although the color sheme is the same. And I have to add I usually LOVE your taste in shoes expect for these oh-so-cheap-looking pink pumps. J, you're a classy women, I love your style but please never opt for these pair of pumps ;-)

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  68. I love the second look - I love the yellow and pea green together.  But ditto, I'd go with a darker brown belt.  As for the 3rd look, at least you're totally rocking the '80s rockstar look!  Even if these outfits need improving or are "flops," at least they're interesting! ;-)

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  69. The olive and yellow is my favorite.
    work-it-blog.blogspot.com

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  70. Hi Mandy and welcome to the blog! :-) Readers often post links and/or a pictures of items to Facebook, so that we can brainstorm ideas on how to wear it. You are always welcome to email me, but Facebook is faster and you have the added benefit of the amazingly smart women who often weigh in with their opinions too!

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  71. #3 is my pick.  LOVE the shade of the green skinnies. Love the blue/pink combo.  But I agree with most other here.... lose the pink pumps.  I'd wear, like your suggestion, any nude shoe.. whether it be a pump, sandal or flat.  LOVE the middle finger ring in this photo!  Is that JADE?
    Do tell!

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  72. Melody, here is a link to the ring. Says it is an "adventurine" stone - http://shop.stelladot.com/style/b2c_en_us/camilla-ring.html?s=jspage

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  73. Love #2!  Where did you get the gray shirt and cardigan?

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  74. Thanks Sally! Gray shirt is Gap a few years ago, pea green cardigan is LOFT last year.

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  75. So is it okay to wear white jeans after labor day?

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  76. Yes totally! I go by weather and not the date. If it is still sunny and warm, I don't change a thing. In the winter, you can still wear them with boots and a wool coat!

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  77. my favorite is outfit #3, where'd you get the pants?

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  78. The green jeans are Lauren Conrad from Kohl's!

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