REFINED CASUAL: DENIM + PUMPS

Chambray Shirt (old, similar) || Blouse || Black Denim

Pumps || Bag || Sunnies 

Friends. I'm so happy you stopped by! 

Today I'm sharing a look that's a little bit casual and a little bit polished. I'm all for outfits that can work double duty — you know, the ones that can take you from noon to night? For me, this little number totally checks that box. And in my closet, multifunction pieces are key. All of these pieces are super versatile and can be styled in so many different ways. 

Watch || Heart Necklace || Crystal Necklace

I've been into mixing metals lately. I'll be the first to admit, people don't usually describe me as "trendy." I tend to shy away from fads, but this is a subtle trend that I can get behind. From gold to silver and rose gold, I've got all of the bases covered with this look!

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CHICAGO PT. 2

Robe || Ring

Happy Monday, y'all!

After this weekend, I feel so refreshed and recharged — and ready to take on the week!

You may (or may not) have noticed, but last week was a little quiet around here on Keynotes from Kay. So, welcome back. Hello! How are you?

Over Valentine's Day weekend, I jetted off to Chicago for a quick getaway. I stayed at the Hard Rock Hotel in the most luxurious (and spacious!) room. I've stayed at the Hard Rock Chicago before, and would definitely recommend it. The location is prime and there's no "bad" room in the building. Plus, rocking out with an in-room Fender electric guitar is totally fun!

Chateau Parka || Cashmere Scarf (sold out, similar) || Sunnies
Camp Socks || Booties || Black Denim

While I was in town, I just had to pop into my favorite brunch spot in the city: Summer House Santa Monica. This California-concept restaurant embodies an extra laid back Hampton's feel — this place covers all the bases, no matter what coastline you prefer! My favorites? The avocado toast and the breakfast tostadas. But really, everything on the menu looks phenomenal. Be sure to make reservations a few days in advance as this popular spot is always booked! 

On to more food commentary... of course I had to catch dinner at RPM Italian. Famously known because of its owners Giuliana and Bill Rancic, this restaurant does not disappoint. Hands down the best Italian food I've ever had — and trust me, I'm basically a food authority when it comes to carbs.

And in case you weren't already convinced I ate my way through the windy city, let me touch on this killer sushi spot I found on accident. Friends Sushi is a cozy restaurant tucked away just off Michigan Avenue. I'm really picky when it comes to seafood (especially raw seafood!) and I was unexpectedly impressed by this hidden gem!

As much as I love traveling, I'm actually really excited to stay grounded for the next month. I can hardly believe it, but in the past six months, I've stepped on a different plane every few weeks! I haven't taken a month-long travel hiatus since last summer. I'm definitely ready to relax, unwind and recharge. Here's to having (what I hope to be) my most productive month yet! 

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A DAY IN MONTE CARLO

Happy Friday, y'all!

If you're keeping track, you may have noticed some new bloggers making appearances around here! Today's guest post comes from Audrey out of Lubbock, Texas. Keep reading to see how she styled her way through Europe!

When I graduated from high school, I knew I wanted one thing as a graduation gift: travel. I had such a desire to see Europe. I wanted to see their culture and get a taste of it on my own. When that was the only thing I had begged for, for over a year, my parents booked my flight. My dad and I went to go spend quality time together. We spent two weeks traveling through Italy and France. 

One of my all-time favorite spots during our whole trip was Cote D'azur (known as the French Riviera) in France. This is the general area of Nice, Monaco and St. Tropez. It is stunning. The ocean, the food, the people — I couldn't get enough of it! We spent each day going to all of these places along the coast. One day, we took a trip to Monaco. I was ecstatic to see the luxury and high fashion that's central to Monte Carlo. I made sure to dress appropriately for summer, but with an eloquent twist. I chose this maxi dress, a sun hat and gladiator flats. I mixed my outfit up with a 'bonjour' clutch and lots of arm candy. 

As we walked around, it was everything I expected and more. Thousands of yachts, Lamborghinis, fancy restaurants, etc. I definitely thought I had entered a magical kingdom. Monte Carlo is is extremely small and very exclusive. It was a great city to "people watch." The people of Monte Carlo have such a different lifestyle. It's crazy to think of the life I have in Texas, compared to thousands of wealthy people that live in an exclusive place like Monte Carlo. Isn't it so insane how some people's normal is our extreme? I was in awe over the way they lived, what they had, and what they were around. The stunning Mediterranean ocean and the mountains. The fast-yet-slow luxury life. Monte Carlo is seriously magical, and if you ever stop by the French Riviera, I would recommend Monte Carlo be your first stop. You'll be in awe just like I was. 

My name's Audrey and I blog over at www.adureymadstowe.com. I talk all about fashion, beauty and my life as a college girl. I attend Texas Tech University, where I'm a Zeta Tau Alpha. I have huge dreams of traveling the world. Eventually, I hope to settle down with a job in public relations in New York City. 

BLACK + WHITE: UPDATED CLASSICS

 

Moto Jacket || Blouse || Leather Leggings
Pumps || Bag || Pearls

Black + white is my favorite combination to sport year-round. In the summertime, I'm always reaching for white skirts and black tops. In the winter months, I tend to favor the opposite, black bottoms and white tops. It's such an easy combination to look put-together and is always appropriate, for any occasion. 

Black heels are such a staple, aren't they? I love these Cole Haan pumps. The almond-toe gives the shoe an updated shape to a classic style, and the heel situated square at the back really gives it a fabulous silhouette.

I've also been really into these Club Monaco leather leggings. These are definitely something a bit more trendy than what I'd usually go for — a tad outside of my style comfort zone. But I really that they've got a faux leather front panel and a pointe material on the back — a slimming feature! I also think this slight contrast helps to eliminate that "cheap" look that's so easy to get with faux leather pieces. Also, these are on major sale. Especially if you sign up for the student discount and pile that extra 20% off on top of the sale price! You can thank me later. 

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WINTER SKINCARE FAVORITES

Clarisonic || Purpose Moisturizer || Fresh Soy Cleanser

Valencia Hydration Mask [c/o] || Valencia Eye Cream [c/o] 

I have delicate skin — the slightest change in temperature or humidity can cause a real issue. In the wintertime, my skin is notoriously difficult to care for. My t-zone might be fine while the other areas of my face are critically dry. After years of trial and error, I've finally nailed down the perfect routine and combination of products to keep my skin moisturized, balanced and looking its best. 

A post of this nature couldn't go on without addressing the #1 tool in my skincare arsenal: my Clarisonic. I was on the fence about buying one for so long, but I'm so glad I took the plunge over a year ago. My Clarisonic completely changed the appearance and texture of my skin after a few months and I honestly can't live without it. I used it twice a day, morning and night, for about the first year I had it. Since then, my skincare routine has evolved. Now, I only use it once a day, but I still consider it an essential part of my skincare regimen.

My skincare MVP is a good moisturizer. I've struggled with finding something that's able to protect my skin and combat harsh Midwest winters for years. From luxury yogurt-based products to prescription solutions to home remedies... I've tried just about everything. After countless trips to my dermatologist and many battles lost to extreme dry skin, I finally found a (drugstore!) product that can tame my winter skin. Enter: Purpose Dual Treatment Moisturizer. I'll admit, this product is a little greasy. But, after years of frustration, it's a compromise I'm willing to make. 

I've also been loving this Ultra Plumping Hydration Mask by Valencia. I use it a few times a week, usually after I shower, so that my face can really "drink" in the product. It provides intense hydration which is exactly what my skin needs in the winter. I'll leave it on for 15-30 minutes before washing it away and it leaves my skin feeling so rejuvenated. It also smells amazing and I love that it's made in America!

A long-time favorite of mine is Fresh's Soy Face Cleanser. By now, you've probably heard enough about my sensitive skin... but this super gentle cleanser is great for, well... my sensitive skin. This cleanser is really a utility player in my skincare arsenal and I use it year round!

Finally, I've been using this True Glow Eye Cream on repeat lately. I've really been loving this product because it helps to eliminate dark circles and under-eye "bloating." I'm up at 5:00 am on the weekdays to hit the gym before work, so I definitely need something to help "wake up" my eyes in the morning. It sets flawlessly under makeup and leaves my eye-area awake and brightened!

I'd love to hear about your favorite skincare products  — let me know in the comments!

Post in partnership with Valencia. All opinions are always my own. 

Thank you for supporting the brands that make Keynotes from Kay possible.

LATELY - FEBRUARY

Hello, February! 

Usually around this time of year, I've gotten pretty sick of winter and everything that comes along with it. While I'm definitely still itching for spring, I'm looking forward to a trip I have coming up and getting more wear out of my winter wardrobe!

WEARING: Boots. And booties. It's my footwear of choice in the winter months — and I basically haven't worn much else since December. The Northeast corridor got a bit of a snowstorm late last month and the snow has been around ever since. So, I pulled out my L.L Bean Boots and have been wearing them often.

A note on Bean Boot sizing: they run true to size! I am a true size 8, and ordered my boots in an 8. They fit perfectly, even with J.Crew Camp socks or Smartwool socks underneath. I've even squeezed my feet in wearing two pairs of socks! If you typically take a half-size, I would recommend sizing down, i.e. purchase a size 8 if you normally wear an 8.5. Personally, I think the sizing recommendation on the website is inaccurate, and my friends with Bean Boots agree!

I've also been wearing some black booties I scooped up recently for just over $30! I usually prefer to invest in higher quality apparel, especially when it comes to shoes. But I came across this bootie and knew it would be a great winter addition to my wardrobe. The synthetic material is great for walking around on slushy D.C. sidewalks — they wipe right off! I think these will be a great pair for a casual night out, too.

WATCHING: If you've been around for a while, you know I'm really into Netflix documentaries. I decided to stray away from my usual controversial and thought-provoking films in exchange for something more fun and lighthearted — wine movies! I watched A Year in Champagne, aptly named, about a year spent in the Champagne region of France (where bubbly comes from!). The second I watched (and my favorite) was Somm, a documentary that follows the journey of four sommeliers' attempt at passing the prestigious Master Sommelier exam.

CONSUMING: I've gotten really into avocados over the last few months. I put a few slices on almost everything. I usually make avocado toast for breakfast during the work week.

COVETING: Now that spring is almost around the corner, I'm so glad that J.Crew has brought back their pastel gingham shirts! I've been trying to get my hands on a light pink version ever since November with no luck. I'm also looking for a good structured bag, something large enough to carry around my camera equipment but not as big as my large Longchamp Le Pliage tote. Rebecca Minkoff has some good options, I'm just not sold on anything quite yet!

ON MY RADAR: I'll be heading back to Chicago over Valentine's Day weekend. And for those of you asking "weren't you just there?" well... yes, I was. But it's such a wonderful city and I just can't get enough! I'll be staying at the Hard Rock Hotel and will definitely do a "Chicago Recap" (part 2!) post when I get back!

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FIVE WINTER STYLE ESSENTIALS

Happy Friday, y'all! 

I'm so excited to introduce some new bloggers to Keynotes. Today's guest post comes from Brooke, a Lilly Pulitzer-loving Dallas native. Keep reading to check out her top five winter essentials!

Even though spring is just around the corner and stores are releasing new sets, it feels like winter. I'm still afraid to go outside without a few layers of clothing on — it was just a couple weeks ago that snowstorms hit the East Coast! Since it's still so cold, I'm excited to be sharing some of my must-have items to power through the February chills.

HUNTER BOOTS

I got a pair of Hunter rain boots last Christmas and I love them! They're perfect for both rain and snow and add a bright pop of color to any outfit. They keep my feet warm, too, especially when paired with fuzzy socks. 

GLOVES + MITTENS

According to my friends and family, my hands are always freezing — so you bet I'm always carrying a pair of gloves with me. My dad brought back a great pair from a recent trip to Italy, but you can check out some of my favorites here: 1 || 2 || 3

SCARVES

On days when it's not incredibly cold but still a little chilly, I like to stay warm by throwing a thick scarf on over my outfit.  I've been loving the blanket scarf trend lately, but my go-to would have to be this incredibly soft one from Target. 

VESTS

Puffer jackets have always kept me warm, but I've never really liked the way they look. I picked up this one from Lilly Pulitzer recently and it's a perfectly understated Lilly piece for the winter. It's sold out, but J.Crew and Old Navy also have similar styles.

SWEATERS

Nothing keeps me warm like bundling up in a thick sweater, leggings and boots! Whenever I wear sweaters, I feel like I'm wrapped up in a big blanket. They're so versatile, I love that you can dress them up or down depending on the occasion. See some of my favorites here: 1 || 2 || 3

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Brooke is a Dallas native with a passion for writing, fashion and photography. When she's not blogging, she is most likely shopping, cooking or playing clarinet. You can find her over at Live The Prep Life, where she writes fashion and lifestyle posts. 

DENIM + DENIM

Cashmere Scarf (similar) || Patagonia Vest || Denim

Watch || Denim Jacket (similar) 

Bean Boots || Socks || Top

I'm not even afraid to admit it — I'll rock the Canadian tuxedo. And I know it's such a fashion faux pas, but sometimes I just can't help myself. It's so effortlessly cool and I can't help but feel a little badass for breaking the "rules." When I'm feeling a little less edgy but still want that all-denim vibe, I use layering to balance the look. 

Here in the northeast corridor, the weather has been all over the map. From winter storm Jonas last week...to 60+ degrees this week? I don't even know what to make of it. If you've been around for a while, you know I have a thing for layering. I've been dying to break out my 90's-esque denim jacket ever since I put it away in the fall and a break in the winter weather provided the perfect opportunity. 

Funny story behind the jacket, though. I picked it up from a thrift store my sophomore year of college for a theme party. At the time, I hated the relaxed, semi-boxy fit and thought it was totally  unflattering. Top it off it with a light acid wash and I thought I had a one hit wonder on my hands — never to emerge from my closet ever again after that theme party... and here we are today. I'd conservatively estimate that I wore this jacket three times a week this summer and fall. We've come a long way, folks. 

If you're up-to-date with my recent posts, you've probably noticed a repeat offender — this Club Monaco Delphine cashmere scarf. The neutral color is super versatile and it's big enough to wear as a wrap. I love the lux feeling of cashmere and I've found that Club Monaco offers a great value for the quality of their cashmere pieces. TONS of CM cashmere accessories are on major sale right now. Also, if you have a student email address, you can sign up for the student discount here — an extra 20% off that can be stacked on top of sale prices! 

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NEUTRALS + CLUB MONACO CASHMERE

Chateau Parka || Cashmere Scarf || Booties 

Camp Socks || Black Denim 

If there's one thing I love, it's a good cashmere scarf. I picked up the Delphine cashmere scarf earlier this winter and have been wearing it nonstop. It's such a perfect neutral, it really goes with everything. I love Club Monaco cashmere because it's so soft and luxurious. I've also found that Club Monaco tends to offer the most cashmere for the price compared to similar retailers. And of course, the quality is superb — CM outsources their Mongolian cashmere to old-school Italian mills to be spun. While I've also found that a few J.Crew textiles are spun in Italian mills, it can be tough to find with affordable retailers these days. Though, it's definitely worth noting, because the quality is unmatched!

Speaking of quality... these booties! I'm always underscoring how I believe it's so important to buy quality pieces over quantity. And, here I am, breaking my own rules. Ugh. I picked up these faux-leather booties for just over $30! I'll admit, the quality is lacking, but I think they'll be able to survive the D.C. winter! I really love that the exterior wipes off super easily and that I won't feel bad if they get scuffed up or spilled on. I'm thinking they'll make for a perfect addition to a casual look for going out at night!

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