Artsy J: Bowties n' Crosses

I like to wear something more formal, crisp, and neat on Monday to give me a boost of energy. I don't want to start a workweek in a loungy, lazy mood carried over from the weekend. Today is beautiful weather as well, so I don't need to wear tights!

 I wanted to try out the velvet / cross trend (like this popular skirt from Romwe) but didn't want to commit to buying yet... so I picked up a black velvet skirt at a thrift shop, altered it to fit, and glued on these golden crosses. What do you think? (I think the velvet is terribly soft and comfy and may become a new fave.)

 Any my snazz fierce bowtie is made by my friend Lindsay Choi. Isn't it the greatest?

Shirt: New York & Co. Skirt & earrings: Handmade by J. Bowtie: Lindsay Choi Designs. Ankle boots: Promise (similar ones here.)

Artsy J: Cat in the Jungle

I'm walking on the wild side today with these faux-fur-lined boots and cheetah print skirt. I love a well-fitting pencil skirt because it adds instant sophistication to any outfit.

I adore this leaf cutout silk blouse that I discovered at a thrift store. I love shopping vintage pieces because they are so unique!

Shirt: Thrift shop find. Skirt & Boots: Charlotte Russe. Belt: Dillard's.

Artsy J: Red and Black and Cross All Over

I've noticed that with the cold weather, people instinctively start wearing more neutrals. So today, I wanted to light up my world with a bright red skirt! Maybe my plan worked... it's not so cold anymore today. Huzzah!

I also dyed my hair black over the weekend. The single cross earring is another one of my creations... made from a real Lent cross that I received from a friend. It's nice to be able to take advantage of a trend and also wear something that someone else was kind enough to share.

Shirt: Karmaloop. Skirt: Forever 21 (almost identical one here.) Pumps: Nine West. Cross earring: Made by J. Bracelets: Cookie Lee.

Artsy J: Lacy Peplum + New Short Hair!

It was balmy when I woke up this morning, but when it came time for my Elegantine photos, I was greeted with an icy-cold windstorm! Ahhhh! I'm trying not to make a "cold face" in these photos but it was hard. Please forgive the solemn look and blame it on the crazy Oklahoma weather!

I love this peplum dress because it's lacy and stretchy. You wouldn't believe how comfy it is. I feel like I'm wearing PJs!

And yes, here's a shot of my new pixie cut. I really like it because now I can sleep in about 30 minutes later! That's how ridiculously long it took me to do my longer hair. And, I think short hair suits my personality... ever a tomboy.

 Simple accessories today, nothing crazy.


Ankle boots are always the right answer to any outfit. Love them!

Dress: As U Wish via Ross (similar model here.) Shrug: Forever 21. Boots: Promise (similar ones here.) Belt: H&M. Necklace: $1 Jewelry Galore! Haircut: by Mike @ Behind the Scenes Salon in Norman, OK.

Artsy J: Galaxy Girl with the Hornet Tattoo

Today is a trend parade featuring my faves from the season! They are: galaxy leggings, spike suede loafers, Baroque sunglasses, and golden clutches! Everything is pulled together with a standard white blazer and black top.

↑ I've gone into a jewelry-making frenzy these days. Do you like this golden chevron necklace? I enjoy it because it goes with almost any outfit, and is a statement piece for sure. You can now purchase the fruits of my labor on our shop page!

↓ I know it's not "career" at all, but Halloween makeup testing is my excuse today. I'm going to be Lisbeth Salander from "The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo", but couldn't find a good temporary hornet tattoo online anywhere! So I hand-drew and printed a bunch of them on temporary tattoo paper. You can order 2 for $10 in the shop (free shipping) in case you have the same costume idea this year. ^^/

Blazer & tank top: Forever 21 (similar one here.) Leggings: Romwe. Shoes: Nature Breeze via Amazon. Sunglasses: Triple Optic via Amazon. Clutch: Lucca Penn Square. Necklace and tattoo: Handmade by J, available to purchase in the shop.

Artsy J: Lavender Monday

This is the first lavender shirt I've owned in awhile! Would you believe it's a thrift store find? I altered it a little to make it button up all the way. It's a bit chilly these days, so time for tights.

I just love this fun bag that was a gift from a friend. It seems to add a cute laid-back quality to any outfit.

Ah, jeweled detachable collars... how I love them...

Shirt: Thrift store find. Skirt: Heart Soul (similar one here.) Collar: eBay. Sunglasses: Triple Optic via Amazon. Shoes: similar ones here. Tights: Target.

Artsy J: Innocent White + Tangerine

I was about to put this ethereal white lace polka dot dress back on the rack, but my husband demanded that I buy it. OK, he talked me into it. I like his style!

Though I have to reduce the load of stuff I carry around when I use this cute little tangerine pochette, it's worth it. I am obsessed with all things neon or patent lately!

 These Mary Janes topped off my sweet-girl look for today. What items are you obsessed with lately?

Dress: Enfocus Petite. Bag: from Amiclubwear. Shoes: Nicole (similar ones here.) Necklace: Forever 21.