Style Bee - Life Lately - February + March

Spring Feeling

03.29.17

I hope your week has been going well! I’ve been scrambling to get some projects done and my paperwork in order for tax season (UGH) but the weather has been lovely. It’s had me finally believing that Spring is arriving in a real way, not just a teasing one day here and there kind of way. I actually felt the heat of the sun on my skin yesterday, which I haven’t felt in WAY too long.

As such, I felt compelled to share this very springy shoot I did for an instagram collaboration earlier this month. I loved the photos so much that I just couldn’t bear to let them get lost in the depths of my instagram feed forever, plus many haven’t seen the light of day yet! So here’s a cute look I put together and cannot wait to wear more as the days get hotter and longer.

Oh and speaking of this warmer season, how about another 10×10 Challenge? Hell YES! is my answer and I really hope you’ll join me and my blogger bestie Caroline of Un-Fancy too! I’ve shared some more info including start dates, basic guidelines and where to get tons of inspo below. Safe to say, I Can’t wait! 


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INITIAL THOUGHTS + STYLING NOTES

So I’ll keep my thoughts on this look brief (at least to me) but it’s definitely one of my all-time favourites! The palette, the mix of materials, the ease of the fits and layers, it all just feels really great. So here’s a breakdown a of those key elements in this outfit.

COLOUR – This coat is one of the boldest items in my current closet in terms of the colour. I LOVE this olive hue though, especially in a raw silk and it’s already been a weekly go to for me. Worn over a base of neutrals, like this cream tee and black pants, it doesn’t feel too loud but instead a little bit refreshing from my Winter of essentially only neutrals.

The little pop of cognac in my flats also makes me happy. I love how it compliments the olive and adds a final touch to the look. Ps. I’m working on learning more about this Montreal brand but all I can say so far is that these flats are beautifully constructed and super comfy.

FLOWY FABRICS – There is not one form-fitting item in this look and that’s fine by me! There are however a couple of form-skimming elements that help it steer clear of baggy. My silk georgette straight pants have a beautiful movement to them and the hemp/silk blend tee drapes beautifully as well. Both pieces ‘skim’ my figure so they allude to my shape without expressly hugging it. The weight of this raw silk coat is just enough that it falls nicely and flows elegantly as I move around, giving glimpses at the items underneath.

DUSTER AS A BLAZER – I knew this additional duster would be a workhorse since I’ve been loving my denim version for a couple of seasons now. I wear my duster coats in place of a blazer or cardigan and toss on an extra top coat if I’m going out and it’s cold. I’ve found I get way more use out of them this way and they’re not limited to the outerwear section of my closet. Plus I love how the long length peeks out under a coat for added interest.

I love the look of a proper blazer but for my lifestyle I don’t need much in the way of formal structure so the duster silhouette really fits nicely as a relaxed but still structured option for me.

COMFY-CHIC – If I’ve learned anything from my Loungewear Capsule experiment, it’s that you need not sacrifice style for comfort. I would say this look is essentially one of my loungewear formulas, just in some slightly more upscale materials like raw silk or hemp silk instead of jersey or cotton. I would gladly wear this outfit all day for just about any typical activity or even a more formal dinner out or client meeting. It’s also a perfect travel outfit for exploring a new city. I’ll definitely be repeating it in as many ways as I can soon.

All things considered, this look is well on its way to starting a new uniform trend in my closet for Spring and I don’t mind one bit! 


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JOIN ME FOR THE #SPRING10x10 CHALLENGE!


WHEN IS THE NEXT CHALLENGE STARTING?

FRIDAY, APRIL 7th


I’ll share all 10 items I’m including on the Friday and start posting outfits the following Monday.

MEGA BONUS – CAROLINE OF UNFANCY, AKA OUR CAPSULE CLOSET GURU, IS JOINING ME AGAIN! YAY!

WHAT IS A 10 x 10 CHALLENGE?

The 10 x 10 Challenge is an exercise I adopted in 2015 to help encourage myself to get more creative with my clothes during a 30 Day Shopping Fast. The concept is essentially a micro capsule closet that you work with for 10 days, trying new looks and styling your clothes in ways you might not otherwise try.


THE BASIC GUIDELINES

  1. PICK ANY 10 ITEMS FROM YOUR CURRENT CLOSET
  2. STYLE THOSE ITEMS INTO 10 DIFFERENT LOOKS
  3. USE 10 DAYS TO DO IT
  4. HAVE FUN AND DON’T TAKE IT TOO SERIOUSLY!

I say ‘guidelines’ instead of ‘rules’ because this is meant to be a fun and helpful exercise, not a daunting or rigid task. You can limit yourself to only those 10 items for the full 10 days or just wear those items to work or after work. Take the weekend off and do 10 business days (that’s what I do). You can try a smaller challenge first if you prefer with only 6 items over 6 days or up the ante and choose a few more items to style over a longer period (I’ve done 20 pieces over 20 days before). Leave out shoes or coats if you want more flexibility!

Accessories like bags, jewelry, scarves and bags are not included so turn to those when you’re looking for versatility!

Do whatever makes it feel manageable but still be sure to challenge yourself!


ARE YOU UP FOR IT? WONDERFUL! TAG YOUR POSTS WITH #SPRING10x10 SO WE CAN SEE! Feel free to tag your shots under #StyleBee10x10 and #UnFancyRemix too so they’re in the general library.

NEED MORE CONVINCING? NO PROB! SEE THIS PAGE FOR TONS OF INSPO AND INFORMATION.


Hope to see you there and feel free to shoot over any questions in the meantime! 


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Thanks for bearing with me lately as my posting schedule has been somewhat sporadic. Work/Life/Blog balance is something I’ve yet to master but the next few weeks will be nice and steady!

See you on Friday with a new Life Lately post! 

1 | BEACH TOTE | c/o JOSHU + VELA | $68 USD | Long handles shown. Made in San Francisco.

2 | GREEN DUSTER | ALI GOLDEN (S, M, L still available on sale for $135 USD!) Ordered originally via AKIN & CO during their epic Spring sale. | Made with love in a Fair Trade Certified™ facility in India. Also available in Rust. | Wearing a M.

3 | GEORGIA TEE | old ELIZABETH SUZANN | $145 – $175 USD | Available in Linen, Silk and Raw Silk Broadcloth | Made in Nashville. | Wearing a OS.

4 | STRAIGHT CROPPED PANT | c/o EILEEN FISHER | $270 USD | Also in Bone. | Responsibly made in China.

5 | SUEDE FLATS | L’INTERVALLE | $138 CAD | Made in Spain. | I wear a 37 and I’m usually a US 7.

6 | SILK SCARF | A PEACE TREATY | n/a | Made Responsibly in India.


See something you liked? You can shop it and support Style Bee by using the affiliate links provided. This post is not sponsored but when you shop via the links above I may make a small commission from a sale. Thanks for your support!

26 comments
03.29.17
Outfits

Leave me a comment here!

  1. Kaylee says:

    I can’t believe it’s already time for another remix! I think I’m going to try to play along on Instagram this time. ? Should be fun!

  2. Susan says:

    I love that Ali Golden jacket, but I cannot for the life of me find a size chart for it.

    And I think I’m going to try the 10×10 challenge – I’ve really enjoyed reading your blog and I’m excited to try.

    • Lee the Bee says:

      Hi Susan, Hmmm, I can’t seem to see one either. I can tell you the measurements on a Medium are:

      Shoulders – 16″ across
      Sleeves 23″
      Shoulder to hem 40″
      Bust is 22.5″

      Hope that helps! Thrilled to have you join us for the 10×10 Challenge! xo

  3. Yay! So excited for another 10×10 challenge!

    I just wanted to say I’m such a big fan of Stylebee and have been reading archived posts for weeks now. You’ve definitely opened my eyes to sustainable fashion, and especially Elizabeth Suzann 🙂

    In fact, I’ve been so inspired, I wanted to create a space on the web where people could discuss sustainable fashion in more detail. I’d love if you would check it out and let me know what you think. It’s early days, but I’m hoping it can be another piece of the solution in getting more shoppers to think ethically about fashion 🙂

    http://sustainablefashionchat.com/

    • Lee the Bee says:

      Hi Karen! I’m so happy that you’re excited for another 10×10 Challenge! I am too 🙂

      Thanks so much for the kind words about my blog, that means a lot. Isn’t Elizabeth Suzann a gem?! I’m patiently awaiting her Warm Weather collection!

      I love the idea of a sustainable fashion discussion board! Thanks for letting me know. I look forward to checking it out! xo

  4. Andrea says:

    Hmm, I might have to join, but start on the 8th as that’s the day we leave for a ten holiday in the US (including both the east to west coasts, including the Easter holiday, and a red-eye flight back to London. There’s a challenge for sure!) I’m in!

    I love the olive color. I was told when I was 16 that I shouldn’t wear earthy colors, and for some ridiculous reason, I’ve always remembered that. But I recently bought this fabulous rust/spice colored sweater and I love it (too bad it’s warm now so it’s time to pack it away!) My closet had/has a lot of stripes (embarrassingly so), and lots of color. After taking a good look several times I realized, that nothing really could do multiple duty. There really wasn’t a way to layer a lot of things. I’m trying to phase out so many bright colors (and I’ve forbidden myself from buying anything striped!) and I like my wardrobe a bit better now. Curbing the online impulse shopping (of which I am guilty of) is still a work in progress.

    • Lee the Bee says:

      Hey Andrea, The 10×10 Challenge is PERFECT for someone who’s traveling! I have no doubt you can do it for sure!

      It’s so crazy how long we hold onto things like that when we’re told at a young age. I say, if you feel great in a colour, you’ll look great in it! I had the same realization about colour when I first started re-evaluating my closet and it’s true a leaner palette makes a huge difference for versatility. Stripes are a favourite of mine too! I hear you on the impulse shopping, it’s a work in progress for us all!

      Have a wonderful holiday and I look forward to catching your 10×10 Looks if you decide to join! xo

  5. Katrin says:

    I am considering the EF cropped pants and the ES Florence pants in silk. I think you have both? Or at least the ES Florence in linen? I’m curious how they compare in fit, ease of care, and whether you find one more versatile than the other (I can only choose one). Does either tend to bunch of pouf more at the belly/waistband- I’m a little rounder around the middle than you so I want to avoid the elastic waist poofiness. Thanks for any thoughts on the two pieces you might have!

    • Lee the Bee says:

      Hi Katrin! I have the Silk Straight Crop from EF and the Florence in Linen from ES (not silk but similar). The Florence Pant has a wider leg and a thicker waistband. They both have a very flattering fit and require the same type of care (handwash cold, hang dry and iron/stem as needed). They’re both a really great pant but preference would have to be the Florence since I’ve had a couple pairs for many seasons and they’ve been awesome. The Straight Crop is perhaps something I could see wearing to an office more than the Florence though. Hope that helps! xo

  6. Abby says:

    I’m totally in for the 10×10 this time too!! Have been a lurker for so many challenges but this I’m in stepping up to the plate. I might even make my instagram public for the time of the challenge, too, so my hashtags can be seen (usually it’s private since I post pics of my kiddos). 🙂

    Question: I saw you got a M in the duster. You and I are usually the same size in tops so I’m curious why you didn’t get a S. Were you looking for a looser look that you could layer? Thanks in advance!

    • Lee the Bee says:

      YAY! So happy to hear that Abby! Would love to see the looks you put together but totally understand if you’d rather not make the accnt public. I know some Mums will set up a separate account just for the challenge 😉

      I would have ordered a Small but they were out of stock and the deal was too good to pass up so I got a M. It’s a little roomier than the other one I have but not by much! Fits over all my big sleeves too so it worked out great. xoxo

  7. Rachel says:

    Love that green and with the cognac it’s just gorgeous. I have some linen pants in the same shade and am itching to bring them out. It’s still cold, grey and wet in the Uk!

    • Lee the Bee says:

      Thanks Rachel! I’m loving that colour combo too 🙂 I feel your pain, it’s going to be cold and rainy for a couple of days here too. Spring will be here (and there) soon though! xo

  8. Lucretia Roletta says:

    Love your style and commitment to non disposable clothes, quality and LESS. Enjoyed your challenge with Caroline who is the minimalist I admire even though her styles are not me. Some blogs drive me crazy with all their different outfits everyday!! I like how you show an article of clothing in many different ways.

    • Lee the Bee says:

      Thanks a lot Lucretia! Restyling pieces lots of ways is one of my favourite things so I’m glad you enjoy that aspect of the blog 🙂 xo

  9. Laura says:

    Gah! Lee, I freaking love you and your blog. I’ve been eagerly awaiting this announcement and I am totally in. Like IN this time around. Blogging an errything. Haha! 🙂 Also: your ability to beautifully curate while simultaneously create dynamic resources continues to astound me — I love the updated 10×10 Challenge page!!!

    • Lee the Bee says:

      Laura your note put such a big silly grin on my face, thank you so much!! So happy that you’re up for another challenge and I cannot wait to see what you put together. It’s going to be so fun! xo

  10. Abbey says:

    Just ordered that coat! It’s still in stock on Ali Golden’s website, and also on sale!

  11. Savannah says:

    I think this is one of my favorite looks from you, ever! I love the color combo – spot on for Spring! I think I’m going to do the 10×10 challenge for the first time! I’m finally feeling a little more confident in myself that I can do it, and I’m excited to see how it goes!

    • Lee the Bee says:

      Thanks so much Savannah, it’s a personal fave of mine too 🙂 YAY! Thrilled to have you on board for a Spring 10×10 challenge! It’s such a fun little community and I promise you’ll find some wonderful style ideas and insights as you go. Even if you don’t finish the full 10 days, it’s still a great way to play with style. xo

  12. Amanda says:

    Can you give some insight into what you choose for a 10×10 challenge and why? I found Caroline and yourself right during the last 10×10 and was a little nervous to do it last time, but really think now is the time to try it! How do I choose what is flexible enough but enough for layers so I don’t get too cold or hot?

    • Laura says:

      If I may weigh in here: for your first 10×10 challenge I would highly recommend starting by including all of your favorites. At least that’s what I did! I just kept feeling paralyzed by the decision making part and eventually I said ‘screw it!’, because it was keeping me from just trying it. I saw start with your ‘favorites’ because usually those include things that you both love and are the versatile end of the spectrum. It gives you that feeling of “safe” while still pushing you to think outside the box with pieces you are undoubtedly comfortable with. And come outfits 8, 9 and 10 you’ll definitely be thinking outside the box! Haha! And if all else fails break the “rules” and grab a jacket if it gets cold outside. 😉

    • Lee the Bee says:

      Thanks for this great advice Laura! Couldn’t agree more! xo

    • Lee the Bee says:

      Hi Amanda, Yay! We’d love to have you join in 🙂

      Good question! Planning what’s going to work is part of the challenge but I generally go for this combo:

      2 Pairs of Shoes (1 heel + 1 flat)
      4 Tops (Consider pieces that layer well like a fitted long-sleeve, a button-down and a cardigan)
      1 Dress
      2 Bottoms
      1 Top Layer

      Opt for pieces in colours or patterns that mix and match easily. Check to forecast to see what’s in store and if something’s not working, by all means, switch it out for something else. You could choose to leave coats as an extra if the forecast is up in the air.

      It’s really meant to be a fun learning exercise so adjust it as needed to work for you and your closet 🙂 xo