Holiday Sale Items You NEED to Buy

Published on December 25, 2018December 24, 2018 by Madison MaeLeave a comment

I am a huge sucker for a good sale. Truth is, I rarely buy anything for full price. For most items, they tend to be discounted at some point, so why not wait until then?

I’ve looked at all the best sales and pulled some of my favorite items from them for you to shop for with your holiday money. Here they are!

I love Aritzia but they always have 2 major sales a year where literally all items are somewhat discounted. I always wait until these sales to splurge on the pieces I’ve wanted all season long. Since Aritzia sells basic, minimal pieces, even the sale items will still be in style.

Babaton KARL JUMPSUIT

I LIVE in my basic black jumpsuit from Aritzia. It’s polished enough to easily throw on for work, but can also be worn on a night out when paired with some fun accessories. It’s a staple in my wardrobe.

Adidas Primeknit Sneakers

Everyone needs a cool pair of sneakers for heading to yoga or just running errands around the city. I recently found these ones at Barney’s and am obsessed. They’re so cool and make any athleisure look instantly trendy.

Marc Fisher Chelsea Boot

If you follow me on Instagram then you’ve definitely seen me wear these boots. They are my staple shoe any time of the year. They’re great quality and last me through the winters and summers. Better yet they’re nearly half off!

Alo Yoga Teddy Coat

If you have yet to give into the Teddy coat trend then now is the time! I swear they’re just as warm as they look, not to mention the most fashionable way to protect yourself from the cold. Saks has free shipping and 10% off your first purchase.

Varley High Waist Leggings

If if you’ve never tried on a pair of high waist workout leggings, you just haven’t lived. They are seriously such a game changer in the world of comfort. Varley is one of my favorite workout brands- high quality, high comfort, high style. If you’re trying to workout more in the New Year, these will definitely make that a little bit easier.

Embellished Blanket Scarf

It’s safe to say that I wouldn’t survive winter without my blanket scarves. I depend on them to cover and shield my face from the freezing wind. This black one is a staple and 40% off until December 26th with the code “WRAPITUP”.

Hue Low Cut Socks

These are a best kept secret if you’re a huge sneaker wearer like myself. They keep your shoes from getting stinky without the ugly look of socks sticking out. Get them 20% with code “JOY” until January 1st.

Cashmere Turtleneck

Turtlenecks are essential for keeping warm in the winter. I love them for layering underneath pieces or to wear by themselves with other basics. This cashmere one is on great discount for the holidays! You even get an extra 15% off your purchase.

Henri Bendel Coin Purse

This past week I lost my wallet, so I’ve been working on replacing my cards and IDs; but I also need to replace the wallet itself. I’ll be buying the same one I had before but this updated version. It’s the perfect size for all of my cards and a little bit of cash. And it’s on sale!

Let me know what awesome deals these holiday sales bring you! Be sure to follow me on Instagram for all of my looks styling these items.

What I Wore From Rent the Runway (November)

Published on December 7, 2018 by Madison MaeLeave a comment

Another month, another new wardrobe provided by Rent the Runway! If you’ve never heard of Rent the Runway, it is a subscription service where you can choose from hundreds of designer pieces to rent each month. I have the unlimited subscription which allows me to continually trade out any four pieces I want throughout the month. Its allowed me to have the vast designer wardrobe I’ve always wanted without the vast expense on my bank account.

For Work…

tuxedo jumpsuit

The Reagan Tuxedo Jumpsuit by Greylin has to be one of my favorite jumpsuits of all-time. It’s so sophisticated and stylish yet perfect for a corporate job. Unfortunately, working in tech things are pretty casual so I only had the chance to wear this jumpsuit once on a day where I was feeling super fancy. I am normally a size 4 and wore this in the size SR, which fit perfectly.

ruffle blouse

This is the Ivory Margo Top by Tularosa in a size small. It was honestly nothing special, so I wouldn’t necessarily recommend it. However, I was able to wear it to work one day with some jeans.

For Date Night…

I rented the Robyn Parker Dress by Parker for a fancy night out on the town with my boyfriend. I wore it with tall brown riding boots and absolutely loved how it looked. The dress seems a bit sheer at first but it surprisingly covers everything. Unfortunately, I was having such a great time at dinner that I forgot to take a picture in it! I wore a size medium which was just right for me. Highly recommend!

For Exploring the City…

western jacket

This Koshova Jacket by Rebecca Minkoff was one of my favorite rentals of the month. I loved the dark blue indigo color, which I wasn’t expecting since it looked black online. I absolutely loved the corduroy fabric and western-inspired hardware, two major trends this season. I wore a size medium which worked out perfectly.

tibi sweater

Another one of my favorite rentals! I mean how beautiful is this bright kelly green color? This is the Green Rib Pullover by Tibi in a size medium. I loved how it was a little cropped and still showed some skin when wearing high-waisted bottoms. Tibi is quickly becoming one of my favorite brands; I fall in love with the quality and cut of each piece!

floral blouse

This is the Ditsi Print Smocked Blouse by Nicholas in a size 4. This is the perfect floral blouse for any girly girl out there. The fabric-covered buttons really add a special touch.

furla bag

This dark green bag paired with the kelly green sweater was a knockout combo. I loved the monochromatic greens! If you want a structured, lady-like bag, this one is for you. I’m a sucker for any bag with a top handle. This one is the Teal Metropolis Small Top Handle Bag by Furla.

free people tie blouse

I rented this tie-front blouse by Free People for casual wear while I was home for Thanksgiving. I wore it out on Thanksgiving Eve and also to the mall. It was cute but nothing crazy special. If you need a cropped black basic, it is a good staple to pair with more elaborate pieces. I wore this in an xs which fit just right.

gold metallic jacket

I think it’s pretty clear that I’m saving the best for last! I may or may not still have this jacket hanging up in my closet… I didn’t expect to love this jacket as much as I do but it is truly a show-stopper. I get compliments on it wherever I go and seriously feel like the biggest diva. I am a sucker for anything metallic so this Metallic Foil Faux Jacket by Avec Les Filles is perfect for me. I’m considering buying it in order to make it a permanent piece in my collection. What do you think?

Want to see more of what Rent the Runway has to offer? Check out the pieces I wore in October. Already sold on the idea of an unlimited designer wardrobe? You can get $30 off your first order by signing up here.

What I Wore from Rent the Runway (October)

Published on November 7, 2018November 7, 2018 by Madison MaeLeave a comment

If you’ve been wondering how fashion bloggers afford so many new, on-trend, designer pieces, I’m gonna tell you a little secret. Or better yet, give away the secret of all fashion bloggers. We all rent our clothes and accessories from Rent the Runway!

I just recently signed up for an unlimited subscription with Rent the Runway now that I’m earning an adult income. Lets be real, what college student can afford spending $180 a month on rented pieces!? However, as an adult, this is pretty affordable for an unlimited wardrobe filled with pieces for work, date nights, exploring the city, and special occasions.

I figured I should show each piece I rent in a month and share my review of it, how I styled it, and where I wore it. So here it is!

For Work…

Here I am wearing a Faux Suede Flare Skirt by Slate & Willow. I ordered a size 4, my typical size, and it fit like a glove. The color was a beautiful rich brown and the length was just perfect on my 5 foot 7 frame. This is perfect with a black top and black accessories, emphasizing the chestnut color. It is the perfect piece if you have a corporate job and want to look professional but still in touch with the fall trends.

Here I am wearing the Plaid Crop Flare Trousers by Derek Lam. I ordered a size 4 and they fit me to perfection. It amazes me that the pants I find on Rent the Runway fit me better than any of my own pants! You can’t quite see it in the picture, but the bottom of the pants are a bit darker in color than the top, making for a fun detail. Although these pants say flare, I wouldn’t call them that. They fit a bit looser around your calf but don’t necessarily flare in a dramatic way. As you can see in this photo, not only are they great for work, but you can dress them up for a night out.

Here I am wearing the Unending Wrap Top by C/MEO Collective in a size medium, a size up from my normal size. This was one of my favorite pieces I rented this month because of the statement that it makes. The polka dots are super on trend and the puffy sleeves create some drama. I was able to wear it with some black slacks to work and even make it more casual for a day hanging around the city.

For Date Night…

Here I am wearing the Denim Sammy Dress by AMUR in a size 4. This was another one of my favorite pieces I rented this month. I got tons of compliments on this dress because of the unique sleeves and ruffles. I wore this to a concert and it’s surprisingly super comfy. The denim was soft and stretchy, not stiff, which I often fear with denim.

Here I am wearing the Maxwell Sweater by Parker in a size medium. Go a size up! I loved how simple yet flattering the slight v-neck and poofy sleeves were. I wore this to a Washington Capitals game, making me the most stylish fan at the game. I just HAD to rent this for the occasion since the colors matched perfectly!

For Exploring the City…

Here is that same top by C/MEO Collective. This is the more laid-back look I created using the top. When paired with some sporty pants, sneakers and denim it becomes casual and fun.

Here I am wearing the Selena Mid Rise Crop Jeans by J Brand. While I did try these on in the New York City Rent the Runway store, I was surprised to find they fit me perfectly. I ordered my normal size, a 27, and they fit just right! I have such a hard time finding jeans that fit me so this was nothing short of a miracle. I kept these jeans for a good 3 weeks, integrating them into my everyday wardrobe.

Here I am wearing the Multi Colorblock Sweater by Jil Sander. I sized down to an xs and it fit just right; but if you want an oversized fit order your normal size. This is one of those sweaters that is so ugly it’s cute. I loved the different colors weaved throughout it. It was super warm and the perfect crop for wearing with low-rise jeans. Definitely a good staple for everyday wear!

Here I am wearing the Plaid Dexter Top by Peterson. I ordered a medium, a size up from my typical size, and I’m happy I did. The waist wasn’t too tight and restricting, a complaint many people had. The flowy sleeves were super fun for a fall day at the pumpkin patch. I like to think this shirt was my version of a fall flannel.

Here I am wearing a Checked Bomber Jacket by J.O.A. in a size small. I loved the style and pattern of this jacket, perfect for pairing with any basic pieces in your wardrobe. However, I did find this jacket to be very itchy and often uncomfortable. However, it may be fine to wear with long-sleeve tops or turtlenecks where it isn’t touching too much of your skin.

For Special Occasions…

Last but not least is the dress I wore for my Halloween costume. An alien, very original, right? This is the Sequin Sestina Dress by Nanette Lepore in a size 4. I loved the shape of the dress- bell sleeves and an overall loose fit. Sequin dresses are often itchy but this one wasn’t at all! I would highly recommend renting it for New Year’s Eve.

Sold on Rent the Runway? For the fall season you can subscribe to the the Update plan (4 pieces each month) for $69 each month or the Unlimited plan for $99 each month. Sign up here and let me know what you think!

Also be sure to follow me on my Instagram for more outfits featuring my Rent the Runway pieces.

My Favorite Summer Adventure

Published on August 22, 2018August 22, 2018 by Madison MaeLeave a comment

It’s been a hot summer, there’s no denying that. However, it is never too hot for me to get outside and explore the outdoors. Yes, Central Park is considered the “outdoors” of New York City. One of my favorite things to do is bike around the city, stopping for food and sights along the way. First stop? Brunch of course.

It’s only natural to start off any adventure with a delicious brunch. New Yorkers just love their brunches and the restaurants here never disappoint with the endless benedicts, avocado toast, and pancakes. My friend and I started by renting Citi bikes and biking along the Hudson River, up the Upper West Side. Today we headed to Good Enough to Eat for the perfect southern-inspired brunch. Each dish comes with homemade biscuits and strawberry butter. This alone is worth the trip!

After brunch we walked to Central Park and picked right back up on our Citi bike adventure. Biking through the park makes for some beautiful scenery and some great people watching. The best part about summer is seeing all of the people emerge from their cozy apartments into the bright sunshine to enjoy themselves and just relax in the park.

I must say, it is pretty difficult to dress for the heat and lots of physical activity while still trying to look stylish. I opted for my most easy, comfy romper from Target (check out “Is Socioeconomic Status Still Limiting Style?” for a discussion on their clothing). Accessories are truly key with simple looks like this!

I added my favorite new straw bag from Forever 21 to lighten up the black romper and make the look more weather-appropriate. I matched the bag with my comfy nude loafers, although they are definitely not the best for biking. Go for sneakers instead! My Raybans were a must because of the sun shining in my eyes. Not only do they make the look but they protect my eyes. And, lastly, I accessorized with a simple silk scarf from Zara. This is my first time ever wearing a scarf as a headband and I really loved it. The look reminds me of women in the 1960s sporting retro swimsuits and vintage scarfs wrapped around their heads.

If the heat is discouraging you from living your best life, going on adventures and enjoying nature (or the city skyline in my case), just remember fall is right around the corner! Enjoy the bright sunshine while you can.

Straw Bag Silk Scarf Headband Black Romper Ray-Bans Loafers

Sewn by Me: I AM GIA-Inspired Overalls

Published on July 15, 2018October 20, 2018 by Madison Mae1 Comment

Is there anything easier to throw on in the summer heat than a romper? Rompers are my go-to for a cool, cute look that I don’t have to put much thought into. They are also a super easy thing for me to sew. You have probably seen my past sewing posts and know my obsession with jumpsuits for the winter and spring (Sewn by Me: Cutout Jumpsuit and Not Your Average Housewife). Well, rompers have replaced that obsession; I’m already sewing my third one of the season!

As soon as I saw Romee Strijd post an Instagram picture in her I AM GIA jumper, I knew I had to make something similar for summertime. The I AM GIA one is black and gray plaid and features a zipper on the top half of the overalls. I wanted to make mine into a romper and change it to be more summertime-appropriate. This is what I came up with.

I began by using McCall’s M7547 for the base of the romper. I didn’t change much of the pattern since the silhouette almost matches the I AM GIA one perfectly. The only difference seems to be in the waistband. Hers looks as if it is elastic and this pattern’s is just fabric with an added zipper on the side seam.

I chose a light pink, white, and mint plaid from JoAnn Fabrics (similar: baby pink and blue checked fabric) to use for this romper. I thought this girly, babyish print would offset the tough hardware used in the straps.

As you can see, the biggest inspiration from the I AM GIA romper came from the grommet and swivel hook detailing on the straps. Instead of simply sewing them on, I added this edgy touch. I was able to find matte white grommets which matched the fabric perfectly. I hammered those onto the bib of the overalls and then sewed a loop around each of the swivel hooks. It was super easy!

You could even play around with this technique and find different kinds of hooks on marketplaces like Etsy to change up the look.

For this romper in particular I added a white invisible zipper because I felt it matched best with the overall look of the piece. However, I have made it with an exposed zipper as well.

I opted for pockets on the butt rather than front pockets. I thought the geometric lines in the plaid fabric complemented the square pockets very well.

This make of mine shows that you can take any simple pattern and make it your own by changing small details. Add some hardware, change up the pockets, or use a different kind of zipper. It is easy to make each piece using the same pattern its own!

Also, shout out to Doo Wop Wildwood for making the perfect backdrop for these pictures! I don’t think I could’ve found a place that would complement this romper better. What do you want to sew me sew next? Leave me a comment below!

Is Socioeconomic Status Still Limiting Style?

Published on April 10, 2018 by Madison MaeLeave a comment

Just a few days ago my Fashion Club at school held a “Diversity in Fashion” discussion with people from different cultural organizations on campus. We focused on a few questions that were important to this group of people; one of them being “does your socioeconomic status affect the way you dress?”.

It was unanimously agreed upon within the group that the answer was an absolute yes. However, while this was especially the case 10 or 20 years ago, is the answer to this question beginning to change?

Ever since I was young my mom would give me a budget of a few hundred dollars each school year to spend on my seasonal wardrobe. I had to choose carefully which pieces I spent my money on. Did I want to splurge on a pair of jeans I would wear over and over again? Or did I want to head to the fast fashion stores for a few trendy items?

It really was a fun little game to me. Fun until I had spent my entire budget and later found a pair of shoes I loved but were no longer in the budget, that is. It is definitely hard to create a diverse wardrobe with endless outfit opportunities when you can’t afford to shell out the money for every item you love. However, new fashion trends and brands are making this easier and easier.

Macklemore made thrift shopping cool in 2012 and it has been a trendy thing to do ever since. I guess this is one positive thing we can thank modern-day rappers for. Thrift shopping gives us all an opportunity to find trendy, vintage pieces at an affordable price point. It even gives us a chance to find brands we wouldn’t otherwise be able to buy. Before 2012, thrift shopping was viewed as an activity for those who couldn’t afford new clothing. However, current trends in the industry have shaped it into an acceptable and fun way to shop.

Fast fashion stores are also trendier than ever. Stores have completely re-branded themselves to fit the latest styles showcased on the runways and by celebrities. Target is the perfect example of this. It is a store available to everyone all over the country, whether you are in the city or suburbs. Target has recently launched new brands that focus on trends prominent in the industry today. They have even launched a plus size fashion line with these same fashion-forward pieces.

I was able to find this jumpsuit for $18 on the sale rack at Target. Not only are the prices at these stores more affordable, but they also offer a vast selection of stylish pieces in the sale section. If you are smart about the way you shop, it is absolutely possible to be fashion-forward on a budget. Not to mention my shoes are also from Target! I have been on the hunt for a pair of white mules for awhile now and was able to find the perfect pair for less than $50.

However, anything becoming more affordable always come at some sort of price. In the case of fashion, that cost is ethics. As clothing becomes cheaper, unethical practices in the fashion industry become more prominent. Big corporations are stealing smaller artists’ designs, toxins are being released into the environment, and children are working long hours in factories in Third World countries. The issues are endless. Our struggles in America are causing greater struggles in countries halfway around the world.

So while we may be happier here that we can finally afford to be fashionable, others around the world are suffering because of it. There really is no way to win unless we can find a way to make fashion affordable and ethical.

Do you agree that it is becoming easier to be stylish on a budget? How do you feel about the hidden costs behind this? I would love to hear your thoughts below!

Opposites Attract

Published on January 31, 2018April 5, 2018 by Madison MaeLeave a comment

We’ve all heard the phrase “opposites attract”. Most likely you’ve heard it while discussing relationships with friends, and you’ve probably even used it to justify dating the boy that you know is no good for you. While I am not a firm believer in this saying, I am also not totally opposed to it. I am constantly attracted to quite the opposite of me… grungy street art. From graffiti to broken windows to torn down posters, I love it all.

I can’t explain just why I am attracted to these kinds of scenes, but I am. Maybe it’s the bright colors and outrageousness of it all? Or maybe I like how it defines a city in its own unique way? Grungy street art is so different from my own personal style which is sophisticated and put-together. I typically go for clean lines and silhouettes when dressing myself but thrive on the disorder of graffiti.

When dealing with a creative viewpoint it is safe to say that opposites absolutely do attract. As someone who appreciates art and self-expression, I can say that I enjoy art that is the opposite of me because it pushes me to think of wild ideas that I never would have thought by looking at art that feels familiar. It lets me escape myself for a bit and takes me somewhere new.

I can’t help but wonder the story behind graffiti and other forms of street art. What kinds of people are the ones spraying this graffiti? Or hanging up these posters? Are they doing it in the middle of the night to avoid getting caught? Or in the busy daylight so people can appreciate all of the work that goes into it? Did the artists think long and hard about the mark they are making on the city? Or maybe they decided to be impulsive and take a creative risk?

We are all attracted to the mysteries behind the person with the opposite personality from ours, or the creative expression that is the opposite of our own. Who doesn’t love solving a good mystery? It allows you to think outside the box and expand the comfort zone of your own mind. You think in ways you’ve never thought before, just trying to understand that person or work of art.

Similarly to dating the bad boy, you experience a thrill that you’ve never experienced before; just because it feels so new and different! You may not keep him around for awhile or bring him back home to mom and dad, just like you aren’t hunting down a local graffiti artist to spray paint your apartment with bright colors, but you are experiencing life through a different lens.

This blouse is my “George Washington” blouse, as my cousin likes to call it. It is sheer and airy, making it quite the romantic top, opposite from the grungy backdrop. Adding a leather belt and structured bag polishes off the sophisticated-casual look. To add some color I matched my lipstick with my burgundy shoes. As much as I love to wear neutrals, I clearly can’t stray away from color completely.

So, after all, I guess I actually am a believer that “opposites attract”. However, they attract in ways that depend on the timing and setting. Opposites don’t always stick in our most comfortable environments or long-term life plans, but they are there for us to appreciate and enjoy for a brief time.

Bag: Mango (similar) Shoes: Splendid Blouse: Nasty Gal Jeans: Topshop

Lipstick: Nars Earrings: Forever21 (similar) Belt: Calvin Klein (similar)

What opposite are you attracted to? Leave me a comment down below! If you enjoyed this post be sure to check out The Rise of Jersey City Street Art, Independence//Dependence, and Shoreditch Street Style.

Photography by Christopher Chase

Not Your Average Housewife

Published on January 9, 2018April 5, 2018 by Madison Mae4 Comments

While I am definitely not a housewife (or anywhere close), I couldn’t help but feel like I was playing the role of a fabulously-dressed, nontraditional housewife as I pushed my grocery cart through aisles filled with potato chips and tomato sauce.

This idea that women are the ones who do the grocery shopping for the family is still pretty prominent, but us millennial women are reshaping this role every day. We are quickly moving from the ones who bring home the groceries to the ones who bring home the dough. Thank god I’m not bringing groceries home anytime soon or my imaginary children would be eating a diet of purely potato chips.

It ended up being quite ironic that I chose to wear this home-sewn jumpsuit for this photo shoot. Sewing used to be just another chore listed on the “to-do” list of a stereotypical housewife. However, it has now shaped itself into a hobby rather than a chore; a hobby many women unfortunately do not have the skill or desire necessary to learn.

I have been sewing since I was 8 years old. The moment I picked up a sewing needle I knew it was something I would be hooked on for life. There is something so magical about being able to construct your own clothing and see your own designs come to life. In our modern age, those who know how to sew (like me) are those who are extremely passionate about art and design. It is something that is no longer viewed as a common skill but rather as a talent and an art. Just look at our society’s fascination with the television show “Project Runway”!

This jumpsuit has quickly become one of my favorite things I have sewn because of its vintage vibes and perfectly tailored fit. I was able to find this ’70s-inspired plaid fabric at my local Jo-Ann Fabric store and the hardware at M&J Trimming in New York City. I modified McCall’s Pattern #7626 to include the buckle and grommet detailing.

Don’t let gender stereotypes keep you from pursuing a hobby that you love. This is the age of change and breaking out of the gender roles that society assigned to us centuries ago. If you want to grocery shop in the most fabulous jumpsuit you own, who’s stopping you? If you are a man and want to learn to make your own suit jackets, who’s stopping you?

The only answer to those questions is yourself. We are the only ones that limit ourselves to the roles society wants us to mold into. We are society and we determine the shape of these gender molds. Reshape your own mold. Get out there and break those gender roles.

Lipstick: Nars Pure Matte Earrings (similar): Forever 21

Jumpsuit: Madison Mae Designs

Similar Jumpsuits: Forever 21, Honey Punch, Banana Republic

When was the last time you felt thankful?

Published on December 30, 2017October 20, 2018 by Madison MaeLeave a comment

When was the last time you felt thankful? Really think about this. Think about the last time you thanked God for all that is in front of you. Think about the last time you felt thankful for someone in your life. Think about the last time you felt thankful to be alive.

Now, was your answer to this question “Thanksgiving Day”, or maybe “Christmas”? I hope not.

It is hard to be mindful of our surroundings when we are constantly connected to our phones, laptops, and various media sources. We rarely take the time to sit back and really think about what matters in life and to just be present in the moment.

Being present really is the key to being thankful. When you are present you see the things and people in front of you for what they are. You have a clear mind to reflect on how much you appreciate them and how they contribute to your happiness and overall well-being.

It is easy to get caught up in the go go go, trust me, I am very guilty of this. I often have a hard time stepping back and thinking about how thankful I am until something unfortunate happens. Obviously, this is not the way it should be. If we learn to be thankful for things as they come, rather than as they go, we would be much happier human beings.

I am thankful for my family and friends. I am thankful for my good health and beating heart. I am thankful for my education and the opportunities given to me. I am thankful for all of the beautiful places I have seen. But, I am also thankful for things like a well-fitting jumpsuit (thanks Zara!) and a beautiful fall landscape reflected in the lake. When we learn to appreciate little things like these, we learn to appreciate every moment of life and its greater picture.

So the next time you see a friend or are celebrating with family, be present. Appreciate the fact that they are right in front of you. Enjoy them. Cherish them. And, most importantly, be thankful for them.

Jumpsuit (similar): Revolve Bracelet: Comfort Station

Boots (similar): Bloomingdale’s

The Rise of Jersey City Street Art

Published on November 12, 2017January 7, 2018 by Madison Mae3 Comments

Art. It is all around us but not everyone chooses to see it. Street art was once viewed as a crime thought to be ruining the beauty of a simple neighborhood. However, a lot has changed in the last few years and the whole concept of street art has turned from a negative to a positive.

Art murals like the ones in this post are now viewed as a way to draw interest to an otherwise ugly space, such as a parking lot. Different colors, patterns, and images are being painted in areas with the purpose of changing the perception of neighborhood elements that have otherwise been thought of as unpleasant to the eye.

From parking lots to the back entrances of restaurants, murals have turned these places into popular picture spots. Walking around this area of Jersey City I saw multiple photoshoots occurring; not just fashion bloggers like myself, but engagement and couple shoots. Ten years ago these murals would have been viewed as vandalism rather than a place where couples want to share some of the most important pictures of their lives.

Once the exact opposite, street art can now be viewed as a way to gentrify a neighborhood and attract a new crowd of people. Neighborhoods like Jersey City, Shoreditch, Chelsea, and even my hometown, are embracing this new approach to enliven a neighborhood. So what exactly changed to all of a sudden make street art “cool”?

Is it the rise of millennials and our culture that are making this a new trend? Maybe. Or maybe it was society’s increasing interest with Banksy, the anonymous British artist known for making political statements with murals popping up on city walls overnight.

We may never really know how society began to accept this form of art that it was so strongly against in the past. However, it is important to consider its importance and how it has changed society for the better. It has given artists a platform where their art is guaranteed to be seen and recognized. It has also introduced the concept of art to many people and has shown them just how powerful it can be.

Similar to street art, I aim to express myself through what I choose to put on my body each day. The way we dress and what we wear paints a picture of who we are in other’s minds. As cliché as it is, we all judge a book by its cover. It is important to express who you are and what you believe in through what you wear, just like street artists express their views on society through their murals.

Whether you are a fan of street art or not, the next time you see a mural, stop and try to interpret what the artist was thinking at the time he or she painted it. Art has the power to express meaningful messages if we allow it to. Also consider what message you are projecting to the world when you get dressed tomorrow morning. Clothes, colors, and patterns have the ability to say so much without having to actually say it.

Bag (similar): Bloomingdale’s Boots (similar): Off 5th

One Shoulder Sweater: ASOS (ON SALE!)

Check out Parisian Street Art (the 10th arrondissement) and Amsterdam’s Art Scene to see some of my favorite street art in Europe.