From Drab to Pizzazz | 5 Ideas to Turn Your Basic Outfit Into Anything But Boring | FASHION

If you've been picking up on my recent Instagram hints, it's true...I'm headed to Disney World! Gateway Worship leads and teaches at a worship conference called Experience Conference, which happens to be held on Disney property...lucky for us, right?! Work hard, play hard...sounds good to me! I'm sure we'll be squeezing in every bit of fun we can out of being at the happiest place on earth. Keep up with my trip via my Insta Stories and Snapchat (👻 juslikejess).

I don't know about you, but I've been seeing lots of posts on Instagram this weekend featuring WHITE outfits...everyone seems concerned with wearing light colors in the final hours leading up to Labor Day. Well, if that happens to be you, I'd like to take a moment to lighten your load (no pun intended.) Ready? There are far better things to be stressed about than wearing white after Labor Day. While I appreciate tradition, I don't believe in "no white after Labor Day" being a steadfast rule...in fact, I happen to think white is beaaaautiful in the winter. Read more about my personal white rules here. Now we can move on to the look...

Since white does seem to be a topic of discussion this weekend, I present today's look: Mickey meets Labor Day weekend. 😂 This Old Navy jumpsuit (similar here) was a piece I that sat in my closet for several months before wearing, but once I pieced it together with an outfit I loved, it quickly became an outfit-repeater item for me (which is saying a lot!). It's so comfy and makes for a great transitional piece into fall...I'll really enjoy wearing a chunky cardigan or cropped jacket on over it.

I found this clutch at Tokyo Disney, so I couldn't find an exact shopping link, but I included it anyway, because I wanted to show you how much personality can be added to a neutral outfit when paired with a fun accessory. The clutch combined with the pop of color in the sandals made for a much more interesting look than just black and white basics. Below, I'm sharing tips on how to add pizzazz to your basic look, with shopping links too!

Shop the look...

Jumpsuit: Old Navy (similar here) | Kimono: (similar here and here) | Hat: Forever 21 (similar here) | Lipstick: MAC | Sandals: Franco Sarto (found them in black here) | Mickey clutch: Tokyo Disney (similar here and here)

Other black jumpsuit options...

5 IDEAS TO ADD PIZZAZZ TO YOUR OUTFIT:

1. Add a pop of color
2. Add a bright lip
3. Add a statement piece of jewelry
4. Add a personality purse
5. Add a hat

The key is to ACCESSORIZE! Build on your basic look with accessories that compliment your outfit. If you're not confident with styling your wardrobe (yet), I'd suggest mixing 2 of my suggestions above...don't go for all 5. :) As you can see in my look, I incorporated 4/5.

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Statement necklaces under $20:

Personality purses:

Much love xo

Jess

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Jessica Sheppard's blog is part of an affiliate advertising program. If you click and/or make a purchase through certain links on this site or any related social media platforms, I may make a commission from that purchase. All opinions are my own and gifted items are disclosed with c/o.

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5 Instagram Spots in LA | TRAVEL + FASHION

5 Instagram Spots in LA | Travel

Am I the only one that has an unspoken, unofficial Instagram bucket list? For instance, whether it's a cute little place that everyone posts about or an epic spot that I must see for myself, Instagram has helped mold the explorer in me.

In fact, when I find out I'm scheduled to visit a city, or I'm planning a trip, I usually go straight to Instagram and search the location...the most popular Instagram picture-taking hot spots are usually in the "top posts" from that city! Just a little travel tip if you're a picture chaser like me. :)

So you can guess what life was like in LA for me...visiting those Insta hotspots, being a total #tourist. I've included 5 of my favorites, only 2 of which I'd visited before. Enjoy!

1. Pink Wall @ Paul Smith | West Hollywood

We snapped these photos on my 26th birthday, so giant silver foil "26" balloons were a MUST. It was a windy afternoon, though, so my balloons were captured saying 56, 65, and 62...pretty much anything but 26. :) Oh well, we made for a fun memory, that's for sure!

2. Love Wall | Venice Beach

The "Love Wall" by @Jgoldcrown is an art piece I've always wanted to see in person, so this was definitely on my unofficial Instagram bucketlist. :)

*Location: outside the Greenleaf Chopshop in Venice Beach, California (however, there are a few similar pieces around the US)*

3. Bottega Louie | Downtown Los Angeles

Bottega Louie is my standard. I do my best to visit every time I'm in LA! The most beautiful pastry items, including the #1 MACARONS in LA...seriously, Google it. It's true. (Because all things on Google are true, right?) They also have a full restaurant, so be sure to take a visit for dessert, or a full meal if you're in the downtown area!

4. LACMA | Los Angeles

This was my second visit to the LACMA and I'm such a fan of this place! In fact, last time I was in LA, my bestie and I visited Hillsong for Sunday morning church, then ate at Bottega Louie for brunch, then spent the afternoon at LACMA! Slow-paced, open space vibe...the grounds are beautiful to enjoy. Highly recommend!

5. Aflred's Tea | West Hollywood

Alfred's Tea recently made it on my must-do list, since I've been seeing it all over Instagram lately. I expected a line to be out the door, but it was a rather quiet afternoon in this tiny corner tea room. I ordered the rose boba tea and thoroughly enjoyed it. :)

*Tip: they do not accept cash...credit cards only!*

Much love xo

Jess

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Jessica Sheppard's blog is part of an affiliate advertising program. If you click and/or make a purchase through certain links on this site or any related social media platforms, I may make a commission from that purchase. All opinions are my own and gifted items are disclosed with c/o.

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August Instagram Roundup | FASHION

Well hello, hello! It doesn't seem possible for August to be GONE! (Dramatic, but almost true?!) So I just got home from a spontaneous last minute getaway with my mom for my birthday (MANY MORE PHOTOS TO COME) and I must say, I'm not ready for summer to be over. I don't remember experiencing this kinda feeling since high school, but the struggle is real this year. I'm already cold everywhere I go (inside) and just to think about layering up for colder temps gives me the shivers. Is anyone with me? #summerforever

As mentioned in all caps above for extreme emphasis, I did take a ton of pictures while I was on vacation, but I chose not to blog. For us kids that either work and/or play in the digital world, sometimes it can be tough to shut down. As a result, I've been a bit out of sync with my posting routine, but I'm back in the swing of things...just in time to leave town again this weekend!

So here it is! The "I Can't Believe August is Gone" roundup...you can always shop my Instagram feed regularly by visiting jessicasheppard.com > shop > shop my feed OR view previous roundups there!

Mesh Bomber: ASOS ($36!) | Jumpsuit: Old Navy | Necklace: Forever 21 | Glasses: Tom Ford

Mesh T-shirt: ASOS (similar here) | Necklace: Forever 21 | Glasses: c/o Coastal

Top: ASOS (similar here) | Sunglasses: RAEN | Lipstick: MAC

Dress: ASOS | Pants: Old Navy | Shoes: ASOS (similar here)

Floral Kaftan: ASOS | Sandals: Gentle Souls

Denim dress: ASOS (similar here) | Hat: ASOS | Shoes: ASOS (similar here)

Top: similar here

Dress: ASOS | Kimono: Zara (similar here) | Belt: ASOS | Sunglasses: RAEN (c/o Coastal) | Shoes: ASOS (similar here and here)

Dress: ASOS | Earrings: Kendra Scott (c/o Rocksbox)| Lipstick: L'oreal

If you're #teamsummerforever, be on the lookout for some fun west coast photos and content coming soon around here. :) Until then, much love xo

Jess

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Jessica Sheppard's blog is part of an affiliate advertising program. If you click and/or make a purchase through certain links on this site or any related social media platforms, I may make a commission from that purchase. All opinions are my own and gifted items are disclosed with c/o.

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1 Tee x 5 Ways | FASHION

Good morning and happy Monday! Today's a really happy one for me, because I planned a last minute getaway with my mom...girl trip! So I'm officially in vaca mode and couldn't be more excited about it. When your day starts with lounging in a hammock overlooking the ocean, you know it's going to be a good one. After asking my friends on Instagram where they thought I was headed, I realized how far too predictable I am and I'm totally okay with it. :) If you hadn't already guessed it, surprise...I woke up in Malibu this morning! Plans today start with lunch in Venice Beach with my blogger bud Jenna...who knows what else is in store! You're definitely going to want to follow my Insta story this week!!!

As you know, my wardrobe is all about mixing and matching. It's amazing how one new piece can inspire so many new outfits...I've noticed that even with a new accessory. Sometimes that's all it really takes to quench the shopping craving and spruce up your creativity when you get bored with your wardrobe.

So in today's post, I thought it'd be fun to share one varsity tee ($15) styled 5 different ways! Maybe this will inspire you to dig around in your closet and put some new looks together with things you already have. Or even show how one new piece can keep you from over-spending on new items, while accomplishing the same thing.

1. Varsity Tee + Crop Top

Athletic tee: Forever 21 | Crop top: similar here and here | Hat: Urban Outfitters | Shoes: Nine West (similar here and here) | Sunglasses: RAEN (c/o Coastal) | Lipstick: NARS

2. Varsity Tee + Tie Waist Top

Athletic tee: Forever 21 | Tie waist top: similar here | Pants: Old Navy | Sandals: similar here | Choker necklace: Forever 21 | Lipstick: Sephora

3. Varsity Tee + Mini Dress

Threw on a hat for a few of these...adds a quirky flair!

Athletic tee: Forever 21 | Mini dress: similar here and here | Hat: Forever 21 | Sandals: similar here | Purse: Rebecca Minkoff | Choker necklace: ASOS | Lipstick: MAC

4. Varsity Tee + Maxi Dress

Athletic Tee: Forever 21 | Maxi dress: similar here | Heels: similar here and here | Glasses: Tom Ford | Lipstick: MAC

4. Varsity Tee + Longline Vest

Athletic tee: Forever 21 | Longline vest: similar here | Sneakers: Adidas | Glasses: Tom Ford

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Want to share this post on Pinterest? Hover on the image below and clic, "PIN IT" in the upper left-hand corner! Thanks for sharing!

Much love xo

Jess

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Eyes for Coastal | FASHION

Every few months, it comes back around: my West Coast craving. It's a special nagging-tugging-kinda-feeling that pulls at my heart until I give in and pay Miss California a visit...she's honestly quite high maintenance. :) The coast has become my special getaway for unplugging and unwinding. So for those wondering, no...I'm not "always there," and no, I don't live there, and no...I don't have a second home there...but how fabulous would that be?? Leave me to dream (and plan my next trip).

Speaking of the coast...I cannot tell you how many comments I've gotten on my new eyewear--not only on Instagram but even more so in person--that I'm SO excited to share where in the world I got my new frames. Please enter: Coastal.

My MO with glasses has been to make investments, because I take really good care of them and wear them for a long time. Back in 2009, I purchased a pair of black thick-rimmed Chanels. Thick rims were about to hit it big and I was on the cusp of the trend...they were nearly impossible to find! (Can you imagine that?!) At the time, I wasn't sure if they were too trendy for such an expensive purchase, but 7 years later, they're still going strong.

In early 2015, I took another plunge with my statement Tom Ford frames. I literally get compliments on them everywhere I go...without fail. They're so unique, trendy and classic...all at the same time.

Needless to say, I'm hesitant about throwing a new pair into my regular rotation, since they've quickly become my #1 accessory. However, Coastal brought their A-game with fabulous brands and unique options with affordable prices (contact lenses too). They even knocked the ball out of the park with these adorable RAEN prescription sunglasses...a luxury for us glass-wearing folk.

(The gold aviators have been my daily go-to...definitely make a note: aviators frames everywhere for fall!)

Top: Free People (similar here and here) | Blazer cape: ASOS (similar here) | Pants: Old Navy | Shoes: Sam Edelman | Purse: Louis Vuitton | Eyewear: c/o Coastal (20% off for my readers--see details below) | Earrings: Forever 21 (similar here) | Lipstick: Jordana liner + NYX Lip Cream

Coastal is offering 20% off eyeglasses (and lenses) with free shipping and handling for my sweet followers/readers (YOU). This discount does not apply to $19 frames, $29 frames, and $39 frames. Offer also excludes brands Oakley and Arnette. Use code "JESSICASHEPPARD20" for your special deal.

Much love xo

Jess

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Jessica Sheppard's blog is part of an affiliate advertising program. If you click and/or make a purchase through certain links on this site or any related social media platforms, I may make a commission from that purchase. All opinions are my own and gifted items are disclosed with c/o.

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Step Up + Step Out | FAITH + FASHION

I'm thinking PINK today, can you tell?! I'm so excited to share this look and even more excited to share the inspiration behind it. Looking back on the photos, I couldn't shake the thought of boldness and what it's taken to get to more of a place of BOLD. 

I've always considered myself to be a creative and over the years, I've heard people say, "creativity is risky." That statement has just never resonated with me...creativity has never been risky...it's been natural. But I get it now. Blogging was my "risky" move. It's a courageous out-of-the-box step. It's different. It's vulnerable. Insert all of the emotions that follow. It was an idea living at the back side of my brain for more than 5 years, but how do I move what's in my heart into my hands?

Do you have a dream tugging at your heart, but feel hesitant? Maybe you have more questions than answers. Many of my friends are currently going back to square one and asking, "What do I want to do with my life?" Are you re-evaluating too? Re-prioritizing? Re-strategizing? It's time to do the things that are in your heart. Here's some food for thought as you consider your coming days.

Step up:

• Is the timing right?

• Are you fearful of failing?

• Are you fearful of people's opinions? What will they think?

• Are YOU stopping you? Do you think you're not good enough? Do you actually believe anything is possible?

Get practical:

• What's stopping you?
• Do you have the resources you need?
• Do you have people in your life who can help?...people you can learn and grow from as you take your first steps and walk it out?
• Do you have time? If you add this to your life, will something need to be taken off your plate as a result? 
• Is what you're starting sustainable long-term? Can you commit with diligence, on a consistent basis?

Get real:

• Be patient with the process.
• Be gentle with yourself.
• Be open to input.
• Be obedient as you trust God.

Step out:

• Be bold.
• Be strong.
• Be courageous.

"Be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the Lord your God is with you wherever you go." Joshua 1:9

On to the bold statement look I referred to. :) This swing top is on sale for $20.50 and the sheer bomber is only $36! Great prices and I loved styling the pinks together like this. The fringe flatform sneakers have been on repeat, if you haven't noticed. I linked them below too!

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Swing Top: ASOS | Cropped Mesh Bomber: ASOS | Prescription Glasses: c/o Coastal

Okay, it's time to be bold! Believe that God can do great things through you. As you step up and step out, He will be faithful to open the right doors in His perfect timing.

Jess

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Jessica Sheppard's blog is part of an affiliate advertising program. If you click and/or make a purchase through certain links on this site or any related social media platforms, I may make a commission from that purchase. All opinions are my own and gifted items are disclosed with c/o.

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July Instagram Roundup | FASHION

It's almost August, which means...this girl's birthday month! And in my humble opinion, birthday should last longer than one day...a birthday week is a nice thought, but a birthday MONTH?! Now we're talking. 🙃

First things first, though...July roundup! I collected the outfits featured on my Instagram feed, but didn't ever make an appearance on the blog. Lots of sale goodies this month...it's Christmas in July, so I linked everything below!

Crop top: Forever 21 | Denim skirt: Francesca's (similar) | Sunglasses: Karen Walker | Lipstick: I mixed Bite Souffle and Bite Meringue | Necklace: Rocksbox

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Dress: ASOS

Crop top: Forever 21 | Skirt: ASOS | Sandals: ASOS

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White denim romper: ASOS | Off-the-shoulder bodysuit: ASOS | Shoes: ASOS | Lipstick: NARS

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Dress: ASOS | Sandals: ASOS (similar)

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Tee: Hello, Grace (sponsored) | Off-the-shoulder bodysuit: ASOS | Boyfriend jeans: Old Navy | Shoes: ASOS | Bow choker: ASOS | Sunglasses: Karen Walker | Lipstick: Loreal

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Shoes: ASOS

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Romper: ASOS (similar / similar) | Sunglasses: Karen Walker | Lipstick: Loreal

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Top: Forever 21 (similar) | Slip: Similar | Prescription frames: Coastal.com (c/o) (similar) | Choker necklace: Forever 21 | Lip Stain: Sephora

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Dress: ASOS | Pants: Old Navy | Shoe: Marie A. Collection (c/o)

Link Up On Tuesday!

I'm guest hosting my friend Laura's Trend Spin Linkup on Tuesday! If you're a blogger, but don't know what a linkup is (or have never joined one before), it's a great way to step outside of your comfort zone and connect with other bloggers. You can link a fashion related post that fits the theme for the week...the name of the game this week is PRINTS! Can you guess what print I'll be wearing?! Hmm. 😏🤓Anyway, we'll start the party at 8:00 AM CT, but the linkup will be open until the following Tuesday, so you have a week to join.

See you then and I hope you enjoy shopping my July roundup!

Jess

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Jessica Sheppard's blog is part of an affiliate advertising program. If you click and/or make a purchase through certain links on this site or any related social media platforms, I may make a commission from that purchase. All opinions are my own and gifted items are disclosed with c/o.

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Never Say Never | FAITH + FASHION

There aren't many things in life that make me anxious or freak me out. I mean, I'm pretty grossed out by snakes, but other than that, I'm not scared of heights, dying or public speaking...so that pretty much covers the gamut of human fears. However, the thought of not caring someday and not aging gracefully is a bit unsettling, to say the least. You may chuckle, but this is real life to me, people. I want to be riding an escalator in Neiman Marcus and be mistaken for Linda Rodin or later on, and even better, Iris Apfel. Now that's some serious glamorous granny goals.

I've jokingly stated on several occasions, "My greatest fear in life is becoming an old woman who wears velcro tennis shoes." Well, this day came 60 years too soon (keep scrolling for the evidence). WHO AM I?! Who knew such kicks would be considered trendy! Not only do I wear them, I unashamedly endorse other people wearing them too. I support it, I live it, I breathe it. Hi, my name's Jessica and I'm wearing velcro shoes. Hi, my name's Jessica and I'm doing something I never thought I'd do. Even though I'm serious as all get out...I realize it's a rather silly topic. This thought, though, crosses various lanes in my life, being true across the board.

Have you ever ended up doing something you said you'd never do? I mean something much more serious than velcro shoes. Move somewhere you said you'd never live? Have you experienced heartache, disappointment, tragedy, loss? Are you in a season of waiting?...for a house, spouse, baby, a job? The list goes on. But how did this happen to you? It wasn't supposed to be like this.

How do you respond when life looks different than you imagined?

• Where is your hope? Are you looking to the people around you to be the answer? (Psalm 42:11, Jeremiah 29:11)
• Do you compare your journey to others? (Galatians 6:4, Hebrews 13:5-6)
• How do you define success and how do you measure obedience? (Proverbs 3:1-4, 1 Samuel 15:22)
• What thoughts consume your mind? (Philippians 4:7, Colossians 3:2, John 16:33)
• Are you worried about the future? (Philippians 4:6, Matthew 6:25-34, Romans 8:38, Matthew 11:28-30, Colossians 3:15)

Top: ASOS | Culottes: ASOS (similar here and here) | Shoes: Sam Edelman | Belt: ASOS | Bag: Pour La Victoire (similar here) | Sunglasses: RAEN (c/o Coastal.com) Earrings: Forever 21 (similar here) | Lipstick: LOREAL

Similar black satchels:

Similar double belt styles:

Similar tassel earrings:

Similar culotte styles:

Much love xo

Jess

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Jessica Sheppard's blog is part of an affiliate advertising program. If you click and/or make a purchase through certain links on this site or any related social media platforms, I may make a commission from that purchase. All opinions are my own and gifted items are disclosed with c/o.

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One-of-a-Kind from eShakti | FASHION

Hey there, friends! It's only Tuesday and I'm ready for a day off...how does that happen?! As mentioned on Snapchat (juslikejess), I could use a manicure, massage and maybe 10 hours of sleep tonight...clearly still in recovery mode from our church's amazing student conference last week! Over 4000 leaders and students gathered to encounter God's presence and embrace their role as world changers. So if you're gonna be tired over something, conference was the top notch way to do it. :)

The possibilities are endless because He is limitless: " Now all glory to God, who is able, through his mighty power at work within us, to accomplish infinitely more than we might ask or think."

- Ephesians 3:20

Click the image --> to watch videos from GWSC16

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Today I'm sharing a chambray look from eShakti! They offer clothing in standard sizes from 0-36W, but what's super cool about them is that they offer customized clothing...what! This is perfect for the girl that might struggle to find the right fit when it comes to shopping, let alone online shopping...not anymore, because eShakti is literally made for you. You can also adjust the neckline, sleeve style and length, which is icing on the cake.

They asked me to give their customization process a try and share about my experience. In full disclosure, I was provided with a free product in exchange for an honest review...all thoughts and opinions are my own.

I wanted to throw some quirky accessories into the mix, so the camo kicks were the perfect pairing...plus, they're on sale for $20.50! Linking similar rose gold sunnies and woven clutches below.

Dress: c/o Eshakti (similar styles here) | Shoes: ASOS | Clutch: Forever 21 (similar here) | Sunglasses: Aldo (similar here) | Lipstick: MAC (I mixed Pink Nouveau & Saint Germain)

My experience - PROS:

• Customization - This dress was originally a three-quarter sleeve length, but I wanted something cooler for the summer months. Many short sleeves are nearly sleeveless, so the idea of an elbow length is unique and hard to find, but versatile for the various environments I find myself in.
• Returns - Return policies are really important when it comes to online shopping. It's one of the first things I look for when considering an online store or boutique. Even though I didn't need to take make a return or exchange with eShakti, it looks like they have a great policy. Free returns and exchanges (including pre-paid shipping) within 30 days, even when your piece is customized.

My experience - CONS:

• Shipping - The only negative aspect of my dealings with eShakti wasn't even with eShakti directly...it was with DHL, the mail delivery service. (Insert all of the frustrated emojis here.) They wouldn't deliver my item without a signature (even though I'd requested that they not require a signature before the item ever shipped), which left me running around on a super adventurous scavenger hunt to pick up my item at the DFW airport.

Bottom line - SUMMARY:

• Overall, eShakti offers a unique approach to online shopping. One-of-a-kind fits at an affordable price and agreeable return policy...online. Thumbs up! Beware of DHL, though.

I'm including a few screen shots from the customization process so you can see what it looks like!

Similar chambray looks:

Similar woven clutches:

eShakti created a coupon code just for my readers! Receive 10% off when you shop, using code "jessicasheppard" (valid from 07/26/2016  – 08/28/2016). It looks like they're currently offering another discount on their site too...$30 off when you register as a new user. Hope you feel as special as I did having a dress tailor-made for me!

Much love xo

Jess

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Jessica Sheppard's blog is part of an affiliate advertising program. If you click and/or make a purchase through certain links on this site or any related social media platforms, I may make a commission from that purchase. All opinions are my own and gifted items are disclosed with c/o.

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