Melrose Graduates...In Style

This weekend I graduated from Columbia College Chicago. Some of you may remember that I announced my graduation in December and are wondering what I'm talking about. Well, I technically graduated in December—meaning I was done with classes—but I decided to walk in the commencement ceremony this spring. I didn't want to miss out on the special day with family and friends, and the opportunity to wear the beautiful dress below.

Being distanced from campus for the last four months, I kind of forgot how great my college experience was. I've been so wrapped up with getting adjusted to a new job, looking for a new apartment and making plans for graduate school that I let myself get out of that college-student mindset.

But this weekend, for a few days, it was nice to feel like a student again, hanging out on campus with friends and walking across the stage to accept my diploma.

For a weekend as exciting and memorable as this, I had to have the perfect outfit. Plus I knew there would be a trillion photos taken, and I didn't want to look back and regret my outfit choice!

That's why I wore this intricate Anthropologie dress. I bought it the day before Thanksgiving last year and have been patiently waiting to wear it. What drew me to this dress was the sophisticated and delicate style it managed to portray even though it was a bit chaotic. I love the patterns, and though they are vastly different, they still mesh together seamlessly. The length of it is also perfect for me. Resting just above my knees, it wasn't too conservative or too revealing for the occasion.

Because the dress had so much going on, I decided to keep accessories at a minimum. I only wore this single Henri Bendel bangle.

Lastly, the Steve Madden beauties on my feet were the icing on the cake. I searched tirelessly throughout Chicago to find these heels and was relieved to decide on a brand I love and trust. The camel color matched perfectly with the accents in the dress and tied the outfit together gracefully. The best thing about the shoes: I can wear them again with other outfits since they are neutral, comfy and timeless.

What did you wear to your commencement ceremony? Show me on Twitter and use #MelroseGradStyle.

Outfit Destinations:

Commencement

Wedding

Gala

Dress: Anthropologie | Heels: Steve Madden | Bangle: Henri Bendel 

{ Photography: Natalie Craig }

Candidly Casual

When getting dressed, I consider three things: Weather, warmth and destination. Living in Chicago, you never know what the weather will be like, and because the temperature fluxuates every day, that brings me to my next point. I am one of those people who is always cold, so wearing a long-sleeve shirt is also a priority unless it's at least 75 degrees. And lastly, considering where you're going and what will be appropriate is, of course, essential. Nothing makes me feel more uncomfortable than being underdressed, overdressed or just inappropriately dressed. That's why I give ya'll tips in every post, cause I don't want to see any of my readers showing up somewhere looking crazy.

This Free People thermal is one my staples. I have it in this color and one other, and wear them all the time because they fit most of the criteria above. Sometimes they're a little too casual for certain occasions because of their boho, hipster vibe. But for the most part, they fit in well, and are my go-to choice.

Outfit Destinations:

Class

Concert

Museum

This Marc Jacobs hobo is my latest obsession. You might remember my other one that's similar. It holds my everyday belongings while offering a shoulder and cross-body option, making it a practical investment. Some people criticize how big it is, but when I'm running around the city and need my wallet, umbrella, water bottle, etc., it's nice to have the space. So F the haters. They're likely to be caught out in the rain without an umbrella, anyway.

If you're one of those people who thinks loafers are reserved for grannies and lames, then leave my blog now. I love these shoes. And I love them so much that they're my second pair. First of all, they are well-constructed. This a quality shoe that won't break down on you. And more importantly, you don't have to break it down either. Unlike other similar styles from places like Aldo, these shoes are comfy from the day you put them on—no breaking in required. They're completely made of soft, flexible leather.

Shirt: Free People | Jeggings: Lucky Brand | Loafers: Coach | 

Handbag: Marc Jacobs | Watch: Montblanc

{ Photography: Natalie Craig }

A Hidden Gem

I've been waiting for the day that I could debut this rain jacket on my blog. I've been wearing it for more than three years now, but never seemed to find the right blog-appropriate outfit to pair it with. Until now, it's been one of the best pieces in my closet that ironically received no love on Melony Melrose.

Rain-repellant, chic and neutral, this Zara jacket has proved itself to be the perfect spring outerwear piece. It has a hood, which is so important in Chicago's windy climate, and has sufficient insulation for those chillier spring days.

I realized it would be the perfect addition to this outfit when I took a long, hard look at this shirt, also manufactured by Zara. The beiges matched and the white and grey panels provided a much-needed accent.

Besides, both the shirt and jacket look awesome with these super soft and stretchy Free People jeans. High-waisted and cropped, they are the ideal pant for spring and summer. I can't wait to sport them for the rest of the season!

And I’m totally obsessed with these suede and leather flats. They’re perfect for going to work in or to wear on a night out when you’re not feeling heels. The gold accents give them an edge over other plain flats and happen to channel my personal tastes—I’m all about gold hardware. They’re a pain to break in, but are totally worth it. They’ve become my casual but refined staple shoe.

Outfit Destinations:

Class

Concert

Movie theater

Shirt & Jacket: Zara | Jeans: Free People | Flats: Aldo |

{ Photography: Natalie Craig }

Ultralight Beam

As my style has evolved, I have kept in mind the importance of simplicity and neutrality, two things that give garments longevity and ensure they will stay in style as trends pass.

The outfit I'm wearing below is one my favorites, precisely because it's simple and sleek. If you’re like me, you’re most comfortable in black. All black is always a great choice, though not so great to photograph. That’s why I switched out a black shirt for this asymmetrical lavender blouse. Manufactured by Zara, it gives my outfit an edge without taking it over the top.

I wore this outfit on a day out with my friends. We were shopping, stopping at Starbucks and even went on an apartment viewing. And later that night, it was the ideal outfit for a dinner date.

Identify your favorite neutral colors—like beige, grey, white, black and earth tones—and stick to them. Before you know it, everything in your wardrobe will match and you’ll have endless outfits.

Outfit Destinations:

Shopping center

Lunch

Apartment viewing

Back at it again with the Street Level Tote!

Shirt, Scarf & Jacket: Zara | Jeggings: Lucky Brand | Booties: Marc Fisher |

Street Level Tote: Urban Outfitters | Bracelet: Express

{ Photography: Natalie Craig }

Blank Space

My personal style is ever-changing. It can be so difficult sometimes to want to wear the same clothing I was wearing just last month. But one area where my tastes remain the same: Accessories. That's why I love this Marc Jacobs hobo so much. It's remained a staple for me since the fall, and I don't see it going out of style anytime soon. Durable, neutral and totally dreamy, it surpasses my expectations of a fabulous handbag.

Outfit Destinations:

Dinner

Movie theater

Shopping center

Shirt, Jeans & Coat: Zara | Booties: Steve Madden | Handbag: Marc Jacobs

{ Photography: Natalie Craig }