LTK: March 4, 2010

I'm trying to introduce more color into my wardrobe in preparation for spring (and by "color" I mean more than just blues and purples!). It's a little bit of a challenge for me to put together outfits that incorporate more than just one non-neutral color while still maintaining my personal aesthetic, but I think I'm starting to get it down:

Click for full size.

I've developed kind of a formula for working with color -- I go for 50% black (so I don't feel like I'm too far out of my comfort zone), 25% other neutrals (in this case, cream and brown), and 25% color. Then I try to incorporate one or two rock 'n roll elements, so I still feel like myself. (Today it's my Gucci-inspired fringed and studded handbag and my NARS lip pencil in Red Square.)

I bought this skirt ages ago (it's from one of the very first Target designer collabs, which gives you a clue as to how old it is). I've lost a lot of weight since I bought it, so I have to cinch it with a belt and give it kind of a paperbag waist, but it's working for me. Honestly, I've contemplated getting rid of this skirt many times and could never bring myself to do it -- I'm glad now that I held onto it because I feel good about this look. I feel a little bit outside my comfort zone, but I also feel pretty polished and like this outfit is a pretty decent representation of my personality, so...success!

Black sisal boucle babydoll coat: Zara, a gift from my boyfriend.
Black pleated silk blouse: $30, H&M.
Green-and-cream houndstooth wool box-pleat skirt: Paul & Joe for Target GO International, $30, Target.
Mustard horsebit belt: $10, Old Navy.
Black textured tights: Merona, $4, Target.
Cognac peeptoe platforms: Betsey Johnson, on sale for $30, One Thousand Steps, Cerritos, CA.
Brass and black stone ring: $4, Forever 21.
Cognac fringed and studded handbag: $50, Linne's, Long Beach, CA.