One of my favorite blogs is The Fashion Magpie.  Her style is more fashion forward than mine, but it’s good to take inspiration from someone who challenges your taste.  She posts these wonderful lists of her favorite picks interspersed with the images and stories that inspired them.  So I’ve decided to recreate this easy ‘mood board’ with my own picks and inspirations.

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I started studying for the bar exam yesterday.  While the break was very needed after finishing law school in two years, five months was a longer break than I needed/wanted.  To fill the time, I decorated my house.  And I couldn’t have finished my photo wall or my master bedroom without Minted.  They have so many lovely limited edition prints; this nude is one of my favorites.

Miranda Mol Model9 (starting at $23)

If you’ve been reading The Work Edit for a while, you know that I am a ring addict.  I own too many.  I wear several at once.  I often run out of fingers before I run out of rings that I want to wear.  It’s a problem.

This look appeals to me because it uses simple gold jewelry to create something that isn’t flashy, but totally statement-worthy.

First, the light nails.  I think Zoya’s Madison hue is the best pale pink around.  Keep your manicure looking great with Deborah Lippmann’s Gel Lap Pro.

Second, the sleek watch.  I like this simple Skagen watch with a gold face and tan band.  Or for something different, this Cluse watch with a rose gold face and grey band.

Finally, the midi-rings.  This thin Forever21 set or this wider Bansri set are both affordable places to start.  If you wear them a lot, you can upgrade later.

Marc Jacobs Air Blush Soft Glow Duo in Night Fever/Hot Stuff ($42)

I have worn Bobbi Brown blush for almost 15 years.  I like to use Bobbi’s blusher technique (video) with her plum blush (cheekbones) and her pale pink blush (apples).  I’m so loyal, my purchases are on auto-delivery.  But after seeing this Marc Jacobs Air Blush Soft Glow Duo everywhere, I had to try it.

I am completely obsessed.  Politics of Pretty explains how to tune up the color from bright to deep to suit your taste.  I like to apply it a little dark, then blend in the edges with my Hourglass Ambient powder.  For something a bit cheaper, try It! Ombre Radiance or NYX Ombre Blush.

Lace-up henley sweaters are everywhere this season.  But they’re just not my look.  I put one on, and I feel like I’m one buffalo plaid shirt away from a Soul Asylum video.  Luckily, a few brands are making simple sweaters with the tie-detail on the side for a hint of trend.  The AQUA sweater below is fab.  For something under-$100, try this ivory lace-up turtleneck or this $34 black sweater with grommets.  Plus-size?  Try this midnight navy sweater from INC.

AQUA Cashmere Lace Up Sweater ($118)

Do you get regular blowouts?  When I lived in D.C., I was one of The Drybar’s most loyal customers.  I still stop by every chance I get for a Cosmo-Tai.  Well, their fabulous founder, Alli Webb, has written a book to teach every woman how to get that Drybar look at home.  Pair this with her fantastic product line (all Mai Tai, all the time), her online video tutorials, and a bit of practice, and even you (yes you!) can get good hair at home.

Good Hair for All ($25)

Sole Society Lyriq Booties ($99)

Still on the hunt for a pair of casual ankle boots for fall?  Join the club.   These Rag & Bone Harrow booties were at the top of the list, but they’re a bit spendy.  You can find them on sale in grey suede and tan nubuck.  But I think these Sole Society Lyriq booties (in four colors) are a better option for my budget.  The navy will pair well with denim.