Army Inspired

LC Lauren Conrad top / Romwe coat / Topshop jeans / Steve Madden boots (similar)

Hey ya'll! I'm back with my first outfit since my little hiatus. This one's fairly casual. skinny jeans, boots, and a button down top. What I really like about this outfit is the details. I quite like combat boots and I think they can really be worn in a lot of different ways, even if at first they don't seem like the type of thing to blend with many tastes. If you're a little wary of combat boots, a great way to make it a little easier to incorporate them into your wardrobe is to purchase a more lightweight pair, like the one shown here. It's a bit of a more feminine take on the classic Doc Marten style boots. Of course, buying them in a neutral is a wise investment, since they'll go with many different things. The top shown here is from Lauren Conrad's line for Kohl's. It's a simple chiffon button down but it's embellished with pearls, which is really lovely. Finally, the trench coat is a gorgeous army green and carries on the military inspired theme of the outfit.

How have you all been? Did you catch the inauguration on Monday? Have a blessed week!

XO,
Katherine Nicole

"Your love for one another will prove to the world that you are my disciples." - John 13:35

P.S. Don't forget "prettykeenkate.blogspot.com" will soon become "xokatherinenicole.blogspot.com"! Thank you everybody for the support! 

Very Very Mulberry

Equipment top, similar here / Citizens of Humanity jeans, similar here / Jack Rogers sandals / Mulberry bag / Mulberry cuff

Hi guys! How have you all been? Today I put together a look I would really feel comfortable in. Black jeans, a soft sleeveless button down, and put-together accessories just make me feel good. Cozy, casual, and classic. What I really like about this look is the versatility it holds - no matter what your style it's worth giving a shot. As far as details go, the Jack Rogers sandals are a preppy staple many deem wearable with anything. I like the platinum best because I think it's youthful and chic. The bangle and bag are both by Mulberry. This purse is their latest "it girl" handbag, called the Del Ray after a certain famous Lana. The clean lines are great, and I'm always up for a satchel.

How was your weekend? Hope you have a great week!
XOXO,
Kate

"For the mountains may move and the hills disappear, but even then My faithful love for you will remain."  - Isaiah 54:10

Birds of a Feather

Topshop shirt

Topshop skirt
Aldo sandals
Fossil bag
Kate Spade earrings

Recently I've seen a lot of girls stepping out wearing sleeveless button downs and I think they look majorly cute on. They're perfect for the hot summer months and can really fit into any style of dress. Today I took a simple white one and paired it with this really gorgeous and interesting swan-print skirt from Topshop. Some minimalist sandals, crystal baubles, and a simple chain bag complete the look.

Thanks for reading!
XOXO,
Kate

"God is love." - 1 John 4:8

A Sunny Day Out

Topshop dress

Madewell top
Banana Republic shoes
J Crew bracelets (Crystal one here; Orange sold out - similar here)

One of my favorite closet staples is a nice chambray shirt. You can wear it with so many different things and one of the more inventive ways is to wear it open as a sort of mock denim jacket. Since it's more fluid than a jacket (it is a shirt after all), you could even tie it at the bottom for that extra flirty touch. The delicate sundress I paired it with (from Topshop) is absolutely adorable - who doesn't like a good polka dot? I knew I liked it the minute I saw it. To complete the look I added classic braided wedges I first spotted on Sarah Vickers' blog and a couple of statement bracelets to add some color and pizazz.

Happy first day of summer!
XOXO,
Kate

"Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience." - Colossians 3:12, NIV

Wild About Leopard Print

TIBI blazer

Uniqlo pants
Uniqlo button down
Mulberry heels
Kate Spade purse

Hey guys, it's Kate here, popping in with a new look. Leopard print is one of my favorite things to wear (when it's done the right way), and this jacket is absolutely beautiful. The rest of the look is simple, crisp and clean - which is what you should aim for when complementing such a bold piece. The shoes are Mulberry and darling and perfect.

Hope you guys all have a lovely week and enjoy the warm weather!
XOXO,
Kate

"Trust in the Lord with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding. Seek his will in all you do, and he will show you which path to take." - Proverbs 3:5-6, NLT

Pretty Peplum

Modcloth top, 

AG Adriano Goldschmied jeans
Uniqlo button down
Sam edelman flats
Longchamp tote
Michael Kors watch

Hey everybody, how have ya'll been? Today I'm back with a look that's polished, pretty, and classic. Founded on closet staples, this outfit's main focal point is its vibrant peplum top. I really like the idea of a sleeveless peplum shirt because it not only gives you the freedom to wear it on it's own, but also layered over another shirt (like in today's post) or under something like a cute blazer. I kept the color combo pretty simple and decided to focus on details instead, like the beautiful moc-croc texture of the tote and gorgeous tortoise-shell timepiece. Overall I was really happy with this look that I think is just as cute for a day out and about as it is for going to work.

Have a lovely weekend!
XOXO,
Kate


"Forever, O LORD, Your word is settled in heaven." - Psalm 119:89, NASB

Sparkly Sweet

J Crew shirt, $150

Topshop skirt, $100
Diane von Fürstenberg pumps, $310
FOSSIL bag, $198
Fallon necklace, $200

Hey guys, hope your week has been going well so far! I'm really happy with today's look. It features a striped blue oxford, nude pointed pumps, a simple brown bag, and a shimmery skirt to produce a look that is both classic and feminine. The finishing touch is a pearl necklace, very classy and super cute (I thought since I featured pearl necklaces in this post a week ago, I'd show you all how to style one. Hint: Pearls really do go with almost anything and everything.) Where would you rock this ladylike look?

XOXO,
Kate

"I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing." - John 15:5

More Sparkles (and a Gorgeous Peplum Skirt)

Betsey Johnson sparkle skirt, $73
Uniqlo Top, $30
Jessica Simpson high heel pumps, $70
Forever 21 faux leather handbag, $23
Kate Spade necklace, $78

After I saw this skirt online, I knew I had to make an outfit featuring it. I kind of have a thing for sequins and peplums, so this was a dream come true. A classic button-down shirt keeps it crisp and clean, while a bright orange purse provides the perfect pop of color. For girls who feel as if the white shirt/pale skirt color combo would wash them out, a black shirt is an equally nice alternative. Nude heels elongate the leg and don't distract in the least, while a delicate necklace completes the look.

XOXO,
Kate

Romantic Workwear

Cotton blouse, $150
Wet Seal cotton vest, $14
Missoni zipper pants, £285
Yves Saint Laurent high heel pumps, $319
Danielle stevens jewelry, $74
 

As the holiday season ends, I intend to prove to you guys that not all work-wear is boring.  One of the reasons I like this look is because it's professional but still romantic and soft. The color palette is sedated, and most of the pieces are classics. However, the ruffles and seams on the vest add a feminine touch. Bangles are a must-have, and how fab is that monogrammed disc charm? Gorgeous.

XOXO,
Kate

December Means Hit the Books

Study by prettykeenkate featuring a fitted blouse

J Crew fitted blouse, $50
Moschino short mini skirt, $278
Kate spade, $25
Marc jacobs handbag, $462
Yves Saint Laurent gold plated bangle, £510
Fornash, $25

In honor of all of the Studious Sallys out there preparing for winter exams. Easily transitioned to deal with wintry weather with some navy blue tights. 
Happy Studying! 
XOXO, 
Kate 

Sunday Morning Prep

Sunday Morning Prep by prettykeenkate featuring logo tote bags

J Crew plaid long sleeve shirt, $72
Maje short pleated skirt, $240
Sperry loafer, $98
Dooney Bourke logo tote bag, $168
Knot jewelry, $89
Old Navy Girls Cable-Knit Sweater Vests, $17

A cute, simple look that's presentable without being over the top or too stuffed-up. What I like most about it is that each and every piece is timeless and a great investment. I like to have fun with my clothes, and I think the gingham and plaid print mixing, as well as the varying textures and fabrics,  lighten the mood of the outfit a bit and give it a summer-in-October feel. I've been admiring this sterling silver James Avery cuff bracelet for a while, and since it's fairly reasonably priced, am considering taking the plunge. It's simple, yet detailed; casual, yet elegant. Another bonus of this outfit: cable-knit, which is one of my favorite things associated with fall - how about you?
XOXO,
Kate

ACL Style

For those of you who don't know, this weekend is the Austin City Limits music festival. Although I'm not going, tons of people will to see a plethora of bands converge. I thought it'd be super fun to style a few music festival-worthy (but still fairly classic!) outfits, so here we go:


Anybody who knows anything about music festivals knows that rain boots are an essential, even if it isn't (but especially if it is) raining outside. If you don't believe me, just search some of the hottest looks from the Glastonbury music festival every year and you'll see celebs like Kelly Osbourne and Kate Moss strutting their stuff in wellies. The boots I chose are Hunter, one of the most popular brands for their quality and looks- the metallic finish on these puppies really glams them up, correct? Pale denim shorts are perfect for the hot weather and laid-back vibe, and a western-style shirt just goes. A leather bracelet is all the accent you need.

Summery by prettykeenkate featuring leather bracelets

EQUIPMENT western shirt, $86
Old Navy denim shorts, $20
Hunter kitten heels, $145
Leather bracelet, $50
Floppy beach hat, £8



This retro-chic look below is super fun and totally reminds me of something Katy Perry might rock if she were to attend. The flirty gingham shirt is marvelously cute tied up (for modesty's sake I added a silvery grey camisole underneath), and the longer length of the white shorts perfectly balances it out (and yes, you can wear white after labor day). The watch freshens the whole outfit up with its punchy color and plastic-y texture. Last but not least, the Keds. I put two versions in here: floral to go with the funky, hippy vibe of the festival and some neutral ones with a fab vintage feel. Take your pick.

Retro Fun by prettykeenkate featuring red shoes

D G short sleeve shirt, $134
MOTHER short shorts, $205
Vionnet, $75
Keds red shoes, £30
Keds sneaker, $60
Swatch watch, $50



And now...the minimalist. What would a music festival be without some playsuits? Well, this denim one is rompers done right. The cut is structured enough to flatter, and the fabric is light and soft enough to be extra comfy. Timeless, rugged desert boots are so super cool, and the delicate heart bracelet is a great counter to their toughness. You can never go wrong with a pair of wayfarers, and this preppy-cool Vera Bradley wristlet does a great job of toting your essentials without weighing you down.

Minimalist Cool by prettykeenkate featuring a straw hat

Jumpsuits and romper, $185
Clarks Originals shoes, $120
Kismet bangle bracelet, £304
John Lewis Women straw hat, £18
Ray-Ban wayfarer sunglasses, £60



Take advantage of warm weather while you can and sport this rocked-out-sailor look. Satisfy your inner prep while looking just edgy enough (the stripe-mixing and darker tones really amp it up). Accessorize with a classic rope bracelet and some bling and you're ready for a fashionable night out. You could even add a black leather motorcycle jacket to keep the chills away, but I doubt that in Austin you'll need it. ;)

Edgy Prep by prettykeenkate featuring post earrings

DKNY short sleeve t shirt, €71
Theory stretch shorts, $160
Old Navy espadrille wedge shoes, $17
Michael Kors Watches gold bracelet watch, $361
Sperry nautical bracelet, $8
Post earrings, $1,220


In all of my looks, you may have noticed one ever-present item (except for in the last set): the hat! You don't want to be caught out in that Texas sun without having something to shade your pretty faces with. I chose three different style hats I thought would be most suitable for the three different outfits, but the straw fedora featured in look two is sure to go with almost anything you may pick to wear frolicking on a sunny day.

Well, lovelies, I hope you've enjoyed garnering my ideas on what to wear to a music festival near you. Until next time.

XOXO,
Kate

A Labor of Love

Happy Labor Day, everyone! I know my sentiment is a little early, but I thought I'd like to treat you all to some outfit inspiration for the long weekend ahead. Hope you like!

AEast Coast by prettykeenkate featuring long sleeve collared shirts

Theory long sleeve collared shirt, £83
Aerie low rise shorts, $25
American Eagle Outfitters shoes
Summer tote, $21
Kate Spade engraved jewelry, $42

Untitled by prettykeenkate featuring a halter bikini

Aerie smocked dress, $30
American Eagle Outfitters halter bikini, $15
American Eagle Outfitters striped bikini, $15
American Eagle Outfitters wedge sandals, $40
American Eagle Outfitters sunglasses

Untitled by prettykeenkate featuring an elbow sleeve tee

American Eagle Outfitters elbow sleeve tee, $15
American Eagle Outfitters shorts
American Eagle Outfitters shoes
American Eagle Outfitters striped handbag, $22
American Eagle Outfitters floral shawl, $15

Untitled by prettykeenkate featuring draped tops

American Eagle Outfitters draped top, $30
American Eagle Outfitters white tank, $15
American Eagle Outfitters zipper jeans, $40
American Eagle Outfitters sandals, $50
American Eagle Outfitters jewelry, $16

If you notice a common theme, almost one hundred percent of the products in these looks are from American Eagle. Well, the story is that American Eagle had a contest on Polyvore a few months ago that I entered. These sets all have a beachy feel, and I thought they would be just perfect for a post like this.

Have a happy, safe, and fun Labor Day weekend. 
XOXO, 
Kate 

P.S. In case you didn't know, Pretty Keen is now on Facebook. If you like what you see here, feel free to become a fan! :)

Wardrobe Basics

 "You spend so much money filling your entire closet and then at the end you only wear like ten things. Why not make your whole closet about those ten things?" - Jean Yang

The quotation above is a  great fashion philosophy to live by. Sticking with the classics and essentials is always an amazingly wise choice when it comes to clothing. Recently I've been trying to think twice before I hop on the trend train and really go for investment pieces instead, and my wardrobe has been thanking me. One benefit of investing in wardrobe staples is that you can work with them and mold them into nearly any look you like. As I've said before, that's really what my blog is all about - putting a new twist on something timeless.

Wardrobe Basics by Pretty Keen 
Above are 10 things I consider to be apparel basics. It's not so much about the brand they are but the pieces themselves and their versatility, which will truly last a lifetime. I know the color palate is pretty muted, but neutrals are most flexible. If you could only buy ten things to keep in your closet, it'd be a wise choice to make them these.
Top row from left: black blazer, trench coat, little black dress, basic tee, crisp white button-down.
Bottom row from left: pearl necklace, black flats, nude heels, dark-wash jeans, pencil skirt.

Click on image for full product listing. 

Much love and happy wardrobe building,
Kate

The Playful Prep

The Playful Prep by PrettyKeen featuring sterling silver jewelry
Another outfit that I'd really enjoy wearing myself -- and the bag is absolutely darling!