I’ve been avoiding doing a personal style post since I started blogging. While I love checking out my favorite style blogs daily, the idea of doing a post of my own makes me itch.

When I promised myself that I would step out of my (tiny) box this year and do things that make me uncomfortable, I knew this would be one of them. It might sound silly. It sort of is. But small steps, people! Small steps.

So, despite feeling like an idiot and second guessing this decision all weekend, I’m going through with it. I’m pretty sure the only way I can make it through this first post is if you hold my hand and allow me a nice round of self-deprecation. Deal?

OK. So. I’m giving you both a winter maxi style idea and the five things I learned about myself while doing this post.

I know I’m a nerd. I’m fully aware. But I get so geeked out about Oscars fashion. It drives my husband insane. There’s plenty of eye rolling and lots of snark, but that’s alright. If I have to deal with football (blech), he can deal with a couple of awards shows every year.

OK. I’m going to stop talking (typing?) and get straight to it. Here are my top three favorite looks from last night.

The Oscars are next Sunday and while normal human beings don’t generally think about them a week in advance, this girl certainly does!

Specifically, I was thinking about all of the gorgeous blog posts that usually float around right about now giving us inspiration for magnificent Oscar parties. There are cutesy, themed hors d’oeuvres, elaborate tablescapes and fancy dress codes. At first they seem so gorgeous and glamorous that I tell myself I’m totally throwing one next year. I love a good tablescape.

But then I think about it. I don’t want to have to entertain a house full of people while I’m trying to ooooh and aaaaah and iiiiick at the red carpet lineup. In fact, I want total silence so I can give this very important task my full attention (well, aside from the occasional Twitter update and snarky text message).

When it comes to buying new things versatility is key in my book. If I’m going to drop money on something, you better believe there are a variety of different ways I can wear it and unlimited places where I can prance around in it. I’d much rather get rid of my debt or buy things for my girls than dump money on something with a limited shelf life.

That said, I decided to start a new series called Versatile Files which focuses on versatile pieces that can work for just about anyone just about anywhere. I enlisted the help of my super-talented sister, Michele Frechette, to come up with ideas and sketch out the looks for me.

Today we’re taking a look at the versatility of faux leather shorts.

It’s been a while since we’ve done one of these posts (since October actually!). But my sister, Michele Frechette, and I finally got it together and are teaming up again to show off a trend that is surprisingly versatile.

As I said in the first Versatile Files post, I’m way too cheap to spend my money on pieces that have incredibly specific uses. If it can’t be dressed up and dressed down, I generally can’t be bothered–especially when it comes to trendy pieces that could end up looking dated by next season. Versatility is key and it’s our mission to show you pieces that will work for you no matter where you need to go.

This time it’s the peplum top.