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The longer that I’ve been blogging, the more I tend to see inspiration all around me.  It’s in a great window display, beautiful architecture, or a public art installation that is just begging to be on Instagram.  This checkered wall of black and white is actually right outside our apartment in Cancun, and it’s striking contrasts have been calling me for a photo shoot ever since we moved in.  My sister called it the Cruella De Vil wall the first time she saw it, so I thought it only right to put together a bit of a villainess look for the occasion.

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Orlando said I looked like the Russian’s wife from Rocky IV.  I guess that’s what happens when you’ve been married for a while, you can tell each other when you look like a Soviet antagonist from an ’80s movie.  Nonetheless, I’ve been looking for a chance to bust out these knee-high boots for the blog, and this seemed like the perfect chance.  They were a find at Apricot Lane, and I’ve worn them with skirts, jeans, and these snakeskin tights.  The suede fabric never fails to elevate a look, and they’re actually comfy!

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My mom found this flowy top for me from Express for Christmas, and I like the contrast of the lace against the toughness of the black Zara moto jacket.  And even though it may go against some style rules, I layered this House of Harlow necklace on top for an extra touch of glam.  Then to break up all the monochrome, a red lip was the best way to liven things up.

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It’s funny, once you become a mom, putting looks together is such a tricky balance.  You want to look sexy, but not TOO sexy.  You want to look youthful, but not like you’re trying too hard.  And perhaps most of all, you want to be comfortable without looking like you’re wearing pajamas.  The good news is once you find versatile pieces that work, mixing and matching provides endless outfit possibilities.

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For my hair, I was going for a slicked back “wet” look, like J.Lo just coming out of a swimming pool.  I didn’t dry it coming out of the shower, just ran some gel through it and smoothed everything out with a fine tooth comb.  Then a quick spray of hairspray to hold everything in place and I was out the door.  It’s an easy way to look modern, polished, and just a little edgy.

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What are your favorite looks for a bit of an edge? What’s been inspiring your fashion senses lately? Let me know in the comments!

XO,

A