Jennifer Perron

I've been trying to watch at least one new Skillshare class each night this week. I think of it like night school. A small part of me always wishes I had gone to art school instead of business school. But, ultimately, with resources like Skillshare, I've been able to learn so much on my own - at practically no cost... compared to art school. Skillshare is $10/month. The disadvantage is that I don't really have a curriculum or anyone holding me accountable for my commitment. It's up to me to do the work, for myself.

To be honest, before a few weeks ago, it had been about a year since I'd logged into my Skillshare account, even though I'd been paying my monthly membership all along. I never canceled it though. I knew I had to start using it again. (Sounds like I'm talking about the gym. No, just... no.)

So, the class I watched tonight was about creating "Monoline" illustrations. Monoline is a style of illustration designed from -- drum roll - one line. These clean, minimalist designs can be very simple or intricate depending on the designer and/or the final use. This design trend has become pretty popular in branding, commonly found in logos and some script fonts. These designs have mass appeal because they are so versatile and can feel both modern and classic.

While I didn't really learn any new techniques or tools in this class, I was inspired to create. I've used monoline design here and there to create custom icons for various projects and brandmarks. But I'd never really spent the time digging into more complex designs and putting it to practice, for practice’s sake.

So, I started here by creating a few Bird of Paradise leaves inspired by the lovely potted plant sitting in front of me, and from there I just kept going, designing little things from around my apartment.

I love how this turned out and definitely plan on practicing more with this aesthetic, perhaps for a new “All Who Wander” brand mark. ;)

Also, this made me want a green couch....

If you’re interested in taking Skillshare classes, sign up with this link to get two months free.

Here I am, about to talk to you about clothing. But here's why this is not a 'fashion' post.

When I moved to Austin, one of my goals was to simplify my life. With that, I sold or gave away most of the clothing that I had accumulated working in fashion in New York. Since then, I've tried to be very careful and thoughtful with all my purchases, avoiding impulse buys and trends, and trying (when possible) to buy quality pieces that I know will last. I focus on getting pieces that are super versatile, classic, and neutral. I've found that when I impulsively buy something out of my comfort zone, it ends up sitting pretty (pretty useless) in my closet. One thing I've come to learn is....

While I haven't necessarily bought in to the whole "capsule wardrobe" concept , I think my new buying habits have sort of naturally evolved that way. And so, with this post, I'm sharing a few of my favorite fall staple pieces, old and new, that rotate seamlessly into my day to day.

Most of my jeans are cutoffs and ripped, so I felt the need to get a good pair of blue jeans that, you know, weren't...

I'm usually a Levi's gal, but when Everlane launched #DamnGoodDenim, I couldn't resist trying them. And at $68!? Seriously, I'm obsessed with these jeans.

I got the Hi-Rise Skinny Jean in Dark Indigo (regular length). I’m usually a size 26 which is what I ordered and they fit perfectly. The description says the jeans have 2% elastane but really doesn’t seem like it. They don’t have much give, which I personally love. I’ve worn them a few days already without washing and there has been practically no stretching or bagging, even in the knees. Can’t say enough about how much I love these. I might be taking a Levi’s break until further notice…

Hat: Goorin Brothers Authentic Greek Fisherman "Papou" (link)
Jacket: BlankNYC Suede Moto Jacket in Spice (similar)
Tee: Everlane Cotton Crew (link)
Jeans: Everlane Hi Rise Skinny Jean in Dark Indigo (link)
Shoes: Passport Vintage, sold out (similar)

I kind of spontaneously purchased this saddle colored suede moto jacket (< similar) by BlankNYC during the Nordstrom Anniversary sale. It's super unlike me to be impulsive on something like this because I usually plan larger ticket purchases around what I really *need*.

But the price was great ($125 on sale, currently $188 retail), it had awesome reviews, and it's super versatile. This jacket is so comfortable and easy to wear with lots of different looks. It has a modern boxy fit, making it loose enough to fit a sweater underneath without looking like it's the wrong size. I purchased a small, my usual size.

I'd been eyeing this little navy fisherman cap for MONTHS and finally decided it was time to pull the trigger with fall approaching. At $70, it's not exactly cheap, but by being more thoughtful about purchases, I've allowed myself the luxury to buy a few special things here and there because I know I will get a lot of use out it, and because of all the other crap I didn't buy.

I honestly feel like this hat would look adorable on anyone. It's a fun way to add some serious style to even the simplest outfits.

Wear it with jeans and leather jacket for a cool night look, or with your chunky sweater and some torn boyfriend jeans for a casual chic vibe.

If you feel like you're not a 'hat person' - this option is a little easier to "pull off" than a wide brim hat, particularly indoors.

Ok, now let’s talk about these green pants. They are the Wide Leg Crop Pant in "Surplus" by Everlane and I’m in love. These are super comfortable and flattering. I’ve styled them a few different ways to show how versatile they are.

Wear them with a white tee, a button down, or a big comfy sweater. Because they fit slim and tight up top with a nice high waist, a loose fitting shirt or sweater works well with a little front tuck or full tuck. I will probably steer clear of longer sweaters or jackets with these pants. With the wide leg at the bottom, I like accentuating the waist for balance. Also, how cute are these with little velvet booties.

I'm usually between a 2 & 4. I ordered a 2 because reviews said they ran a little big and have a lot of stretch. They fit great, but they do stretch out a lot. If I decide to get these in another color, I might downsize again.

Short-sleeve blouse: old Uniqlo Men's (similar)
Bandana: old RRL (similar)
Pants: Everlane Wide Leg Crop Pant (link)
Sandles: old Madewell (link)
Boots: old Zara (similar)
Sweater: old Zara (similar)

I bought this oversized sweater a few years ago from Zara and it's been one of my regulars since. I love it half tucked into high waisted pants or with a feminine print skirt, or in this case (below), over a summer dress.

Make sure you get one that's not itchy or you'll never want to wear it - and remember, this is supposed to be in regular rotation. Wear it at home one night while you're watching TV to "practice" - if it's itchy, RETURN IT and maybe opt for something that's 100% cotton.

Since this exact sweater is no longer available, here's a similar. Yes, it's men's! I do that a lot.

I love the somewhat unexpected pairing of a big sweater and a feminine print:

Just because it's fall doesn't mean you need to put away ALL your summer clothes. Get creative and find fun ways to layer. I love this vintage silk dress with my little suede moto jacket and with the oversized sweater.

When it gets chillier, just add black tights.

Would love to hear what you think! What are some staple pieces in your wardrobe? Are there any pieces here that you want to try? Whatever you decide, go forth in confidence like the badass you are.

And if you decide to buy from Everlane, be a doll and use this link to help me earn some bucks! ;)

XO.