A Neighborhood, A Blazer and A Memory

Wondering How to Mix Bohemian and Polished Pieces?

There's something magical about finding beauty in the familiar. This tree lined street built around a beautiful fountain has been part of my world for as long as I can remember…first as the backdrop to my childhood, and now as the place where I love to capture these style moments. Growing up here and choosing to stay means I see this neighborhood through a different lens. Every corner literally holds a memory, every season brings its own kind of beauty, and honestly, photographing here feels like coming home.

For this shoot, I pulled out my Veronica Beard green suede blazer…the one my husband bought me when we were in NYC back in December. I was immediately drawn to this blazer and when I tried it on, it fit perfectly! I walked over to the mirror to admire it and he looked at the sales girl and said…”we’ll take it”! I had no idea that was coming and it was such a nice surprise! There's just something about wearing a piece attached to great memories! If you're looking for suede blazer outfit inspiration, this blazer has already become one of the hardest-working pieces in my closet. Today, I layered it over this gorgeous patterned maxi from Farm Rio, and I love how it brings together polished and playful in just the right way. The green suede pulls out those earthy tones in the dress while adding a little structure to Farm Rio's signature bohemian vibe (it’s such a fun brand!). I also wore my pistachio green suede booties (another surprise from NYC) and they really were just perfect although a black bootie would be an amazing choice as well!

I'm drawn to both Veronica Beard and Farm Rio because they really do represent two different sides of how I like to dress. Veronica Beard has that effortless, polished elegance…classic pieces that feel put-together without trying too hard. Farm Rio brings the color, the pattern, the pure joy…it’s artsy and free-spirited in all the best ways. When I mix them together, I get something I couldn't create with either one alone.

This suede blazer is proof that the right piece can (and should) completely reinvent itself. I styled it here in a totally different way, and it just reinforces what I already know…investment pieces earn their keep when you can wear them a dozen different ways, not just one. My green croc-embossed bag (also Veronica Beard) and French Kande necklace pull it all together with those finishing touches that just feel right.

Mixing these two brands is exactly what makes this look work so well. These pieces are very different styles but balance each other out in an effortless way. I'll be posting looks like this more often to give you lots of outfit inspiration!

There's something special about photographing in a place that's shaped who I am. It reminds me that my sense of place..those streets I know by heart, the spots I return to again and again, while walking my dogs or bringing my grandchildren to look at the fish in the fountain…all become woven into my style!

And that, to me, is what style is really all about…telling the story of where you've been and who you are.

Thanks so much for reading today!

~XOXO Suzanne