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.

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.

So, this should surprise no one, but… I’m kind of a geek. And as a geek, I’m attracted to geeky fashion. If there’s anything whimsical or any kind of typography involved (oh hey, Kate Spade!) I am so in. And I’ll probably do a whole lot of squealing.

I also happen to love the combination of something casual and ranking kind of high on the nerd scale with something more feminine, like an a-line skirt. I like to call this combination geek chic (mostly because my inner word nerd loves the way it sounds).

Take this look, for example…

You can tell what time of year it is by what kind of food I’m stuffing in my face. This morning it’s apple slices with peanut butter and shredded coconut.

Oh yes, my friends. The New Year is upon us with it’s magical clean slate and “new year, new me” attitude that usually doesn’t live long enough to know whether or not that damn groundhog sees his shadow.

Still, I always find the idea of a fresh, clean slate enticing. Why not start the new year off with a bang to let it know that you plan on owning its ass? And what better way to do that than wearing a fabulous outfit?

If I had big plans tonight (and more money and no body issues… and pretty much an entirely different life) this is what I’d wear:

Topshop sequin skater dress  / Forever21 collar necklace / Express opaque tights
Express bracelet sleeve blazer / Jessica Simpson Devin platform pumps
BCBGeneration foldover clutch

Sparkle, legs for days, and amazing shoes that (even more amazingly) don’t hurt. It doesn’t get much better than that, does it?

Except, it kind of does. Instead of wearing this outfit, I’ll be in jeans and some (actually) comfy shoes. And instead of a shmancy dinner and drinks, I’ll be at a local restaurant and pub with my family where my youngest brother is playing a show. My babies will be there (possibly cranky because they’ll be out passed their normal bedtime) and the food and company will be good.

Maybe I’ll wear something a little sparkly in homage to that other life I don’t have. But maybe not. After all, I have everything that’s really important to me in this one.

What are your plans for tonight?

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 on versatile pieces that can work for just about anywhere. I’ve enlisted the help of my super-talented sister, Michele Frechette, to sketch out the looks for me.

Today, we’re talking motorcycle jackets.

Let me start by saying that I’m all for the faux stuff here. It’s less expensive, kinder to other living things (hey, cows!), and there are plenty of high quality options out there.

I’m more than a little obsessed with the styles that have wide lapels and zipper details. While it might sound surprising, you can absolutely wear this style of jacket just about anywhere.

Feminine with an edge

Going on a much-needed date night with the hubs and getting all dressed up in a lacy, feminine dress? Give it a little bit of edge by putting a motorcycle jacket on top and pair it up with some spiked heels and a sparkly clutch. It adds a little kick of style without detracting from your dressiness.

If you’re afraid the jacket won’t go over well with your company (ie set-in-her-ways grandma at your cousin’s wedding), you can always remove the jacket when you go inside. At least you’ll know you looked fierce on your way in!

Shop Feminine with an edge

 Weekend casual

Heading out for a cup of coffee on your day off? A motorcycle jacket is a no brainer if you want to feel like you put in a smidge of effort. It’s totally on trend and totally easy. All you need is your favorite jeans and a t-shirt with a pair of your comfiest flats. Bonus points for an animal print infinity scarf and a messy top knot (a couple of my other obsessions).

Very little thought, very little effort, but lots of style.

Shop Weekend casual

Business friendly

Don’t think you can pull off a motorcycle jacket at work? While it might not fly in all areas of business, there are plenty of places where you could easily wear one in place of a blazer. The key here is keeping the rest of your look very professional. A button-down shirt, tailored pants, and maybe a fun pair of oxfords would be perfection.

I almost (almost) wish I had an in-house job again so I could try it out. But then I remember how much I like setting my own hours and mid-day cuddle sessions with my babies and I realize I’d rather leave it to other ladies to try.

Shop Business friendly

What do you think? Do you agree with me on the motorcycle jacket’s versatility or do you think I’ve lost it?