Summer Layers

After my last post where I made it clear that sometimes I do not want to layer in the summer, the subject got me thinking. What does it take to achieve the fun summer layered look without the extra heat? Here is how I see it, it has to be simple to put together, it has to be cool (and by that I mean... cool as in refreshing), and of course, it has to be chic! For this look I paired up a tropical print pair of shorts with a simple tank and long blazer vest. I love the open sides of the vest and tank to allow some air flow + the long vest also helps if you're wearing something short on the bottom. We all know short shorts and short, tight top is a No No! 

Zara Blazer & Strap Heels

Trouve Shorts

Jennifer Zeuner Necklace via She's Unique

Gorjana Dagger Necklace via She's Unique

RayBan Sunnies

Vintage Coach Bag

YSL Coral Ring

A Chevron Romper

When I found this romper at Tari Consignment while killing time before my Pilates Class at Fuel in Georgetown last week, I knew it was the perfect summer staple. I absolutely love the chevron pattern mixed with these great summer colors and of course, the comfort of a romper. I get super lazy in the summer and sometimes layering is just not something I want to do. With a romper, you throw on a few accessories and you're good to go! 

I had to wear my rose gold chevron ring to play on the chevron pattern of the romper 

The low cut open back is ideal in the summer - sexy but also refreshing

Tari Consignment Romper 

Hobo Bag 

Current Boutique Shoes

She's Unique Rings & Bracelets

Top 12 of 2012

Katya's Top 6 Outfits of 2012

Looking back at all the outfits of the year put a huge smile on my face because each one of them brought me back to some moment, event, or just a fun experience we had while working on the post. The best part of what we do isn't the outfit itself, it's the creativity that goes into putting it together, photographing it, finding the perfect "spot", and all the other fun elements that go along with it. Last year I did a lot of prints (leopard probably being on the top of the list), skinny jeans (or pants), and a little pop of color here and there. This year, I'm craving a more basic, chic, clean-cut style. So expect to see me with more staple pieces, clean lines and cuts, and maybe a little more glam here and there! I'm also excited to experiment with new styles and trends that are hitting the streets in 2013 -- constantly recreating, experimenting, and continuing to discover what you feel most comfortable and fabulous in, is the best part of this ever-evolving thing we call personal style! 

Top 5 Personal Accomplishments:

1. Paid off over $8000 in debt and did not use my credit cards at all -- this was the first year I've done that since I was 18!
2. Did this little thing called "opening my own business" and now you know my secret ... I really LOVE jewelry and being my own boss
3. Started work on my apartment -- the 200 year-old building needs a LOT of TLC, but it's getting there slowly but surely and I'm having a blast in the process!
4. Took a vacation - five days in Playa del Carmen, Mexico was exactly what the Doctor ordered after a long spring and summer of work work work and more work
5. Let go of some old baggage (physical and emotional) and learned the importance of focusing on only positive relationships, people, and activities that make you feel empowered, strong, and full of life each and single day! 

Carlis' Top 6 Outfits of 2012

As I was going through our outfit posts album, I could not believe that one, another year has gone by, and two, how many times I've incorporated my leather pants into a lot of my outfits lol. I love brights so neon was HUGE this year in my wardrobe. As usual, vintage blazers are a staple in my closet and what would Carlis do without sunnies!? ;) I also noticed that I don't show much leg so expect to see more of that next year. I also plan to experiment more with hair styles and add a little sexiness to my usual casual looks - don't mind me if you see me with a mini skirt and a cropped top closer to March! :)

Top 5 Personal Accomplishments:

1. I finally moved to H street area in DC back in June with my wonderful roommate, and just recently found my own place to move into...very excited! 
2. I managed to finally balance my 9-5 job and my blogging career lol (it's def a lot harder than most people think it is) 
3. I gave up my mini cooper when I move into the city, and I'm proud to say that I'm now an expert in public transportation
4. Call me the event queen! I attend 3 to 5 events a week, but the downside, I'm addicted to goody bags! 
5. I attended fashion week alone after three years of going w the BFF. I hate traveling by myself and sharing a seat with a stranger, but I somehow survived & realized that being a blogger without a partner is not as fun. I also realized that traveling alone is not as bad as I thought, just make sure your phone is fully charged for venting purposes! hahha ( see my NYFW recap HERE)

PS: You can click through each photo so it can take you to the actual outfit post! ;) got your favs? let us know.