What I Wore: Nice Splash of Paprika
I'm quoting Diana Vreeland because I feel a bit like a trend salad today, but I honestly don't care. This top came in my latest Gwynnie Bee box and before I tried it on, I was imagining it with skinny black ponte pants. But once I tried it on, I wanted to emphasize the volume and liked the leather with the houndstooth. And then well… you can't get a new purse and not show it off! Leopard and houndstooth and modified peplum and pleats and booties and… oh my! Let's just say it's a nice splash of paprika!
As for the new purse… I have liked the Rebecca Minkoff Mini M.A.C.s for a very long while, but hesitated because… well because every other person under the sun is carrying them, it seems to be as much a blogger necessity as Karen Walker sunnies. But then I thought it's pretty stupid to not buy something I like just because everyone else has played it out. And then when I saw it in leopard pony hair, silver hardware, and ON SALE (no longer available at Nordstrom.com but check in their stores) I decided to get it. And when everyone else has moved on from this bag to another must-have, I'll still be rocking the heck out of it because it pretty much is everything I love all rolled into one. And for those who have considered this bag, in it I have my wallet (which is stuffed like most moms), a cosmetic bag (which is also stuffed), my Momagenda, phone, keys, two pens, headphones, and sunglass case all in the main portion; two lipsticks, pack of gum, and SmarTrip card in the front pocket. The only thing not in here that I usually carry is a small umbrella, and I had to carry my book in my hand for the subway ride. the strap is comfortable as a shoulder bag, but also a good length for a crossbody, and the strap can be removed to make it into a clutch.
As for this top, it fits really nicely, is lined in the front, but not the back so I had to wear a camisole to work. However for a night out, the sheerness is subtle, a black bra under will give coverage without looking hoochie-mama, and it would look great with skinny black pants or jeans. The neckline doesn't gape, keeping everything under wraps. I've also considered trying the top with a wider black leather belt for a different effect. Gotta love Gwynnie Bee, I would have never tried this top if I didn't have the luxury to borrow and return without buyer's remorse!
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Hey Allie! Love the new bag!!! Is it a MAC or a mini?
It’s the Mini M.A.C. 🙂
You look SMASHING, my dear! And, of course, love the bag.
Awesome look, Allie! Do you kind me asking what size you’re wearing?
On reflection, this question is pretty personal – feel free to ignore. It’s just that I find ASOS quite frustrating because there are no reviews for gauging sizes before buying. And I would totally get a Gwynnie Bee sub, but I live in Australia 🙂
Oh no, it’s fine! It’s a US 14. ASOS is frustrating because some things run super big, others natural size. Hope that helps!
Thanks Allie, this one must be quite a small fit. That’s very helpful!
A few posts ago you talked about changing your personal style and slowly rebuilding your wardrobe…I find myself in the same position and am wondering how you put your shopping list together. I’m struggling as I find I’m still trying to identify the exact pieces that will be quality over quantity and still give me different looks. Any suggestions?
Great question and food for thought. I’m going to write a post about this, thank you!
OBSESSED with Rebecca Minkoff bags. At first, I felt the same way you did – too ubiquitous. Then I broke down and bought a mini Mac. I loved it so much I got a Mac. And then a Swing. It’s becoming a problem. But for the price point (sales galore!), the soft leather, the layout of the bag, the incredibly convenient straps (cross body and shoulder options) and the fun colors – they are my favorites. I sound like an infomercial!
Amy, after a week with this bag I too am an infomercial and want more! So I fully get your Minkoff fever!
I also got this top from Gwynnie Bee – I paired it with a black pencil skirt and sky high pumps – very flouncy, very fun. I was thisclose to buying it!
I was looking for the bright orangey-red item in your outfit (i.e. paprika-coloured). I quite like all the patterns together – the bag is nice against the top.
I love how you played up the rock and roll vibes of the top with the leather and leopard! And OMG – Emerson carrying Corduroy by his overalls – so cute!
I really like this outfit on you! I love the MAC bags, even though it’s very popular.
That top looks great on you! (As does the rest of the ensemble!) I just put the top in my GB closet. I would not have tried it if you had not modeled it. I don’t really think it flatters the GB model.
This is a fantastic look for you! The combo is so chic and I’m loving the bag!
I really like the silhouette this creates with your skirt. It’s not a combination I’d have ever thought to try so thanks for the inspiration.