I was raised on the notion that hard work will get you far, when the going gets tough. My parents came to America, from Vietnam, over 30 years ago with [           ]. Not. a. thing. except the clothes on their back and family. My parents did not know each other, until they met in a refugee camp. Despite their very humble beginnings, they raised a family and built a successful business. Everything they got, they earned, through good, honest, hard work.

Their story, inspires me every day. Yet, there have been many moments in my life where I wondered if my hard work would ever pay off. This week is one of those. It’s such an  odd pairing. My optimism and positive attitude countered by doubt, but what can I say, I’m only human! Haven’t heard back about this job yet and quite frankly, it’s just a teeny, tiny bit distracting. Thank you for all of your encouraging and kind thoughts in my last post!

Another week of blood, sweat and tears has come and gone. I’m looking forward to the weekend. With that said, here’s the latest installment of Anatomy of Clothes with a DIY sleeveless trench coat. Cross something off your to-do list this weekend.

Layers: Sleeveless Trench Coat > Gray Cardigan > Black Silk Blouse > Bright Blue Pants > Statement Necklace; Do you love the contrasting sleeves look that is on trend? Last time, I showed you how to create the look by layering a sleeveless button up over a denim shirt. Here, I’m working with two similar neutral tones and playing with textures. This DIY project is very simple. Remove the sleeves with a seam ripper. That’s. it. I like the look of a raw edge so I left it unhemmed. This works well because the sleeves are not lined.

I feel like a secret agent with these sunnies, but this is only pretend. I’m not actually a spy and it’s raining outside. A girl can dream, right? Popping the collar is a fun detail. I love the cozy, polished feel. On the right, I took the coat belt off, leaving it open for a more casual look.

And if you want extra warmth or a splash of color, why not add a bright turquoise to the mix? Any bright shade will do when you combine with neutrals. These burgundy gloves are from my mother-in-law. Love how the crochet flowers add texture!

I’ve been developing patterns for architectural graphics all week and have shapes on my mind. Triangles are my current obsession. Here’s a cute triangle print blouse on my pinterest. If you’re a pinner, follow me! I use it for storing outfit ideas and you can get a glimpse into what I’m currently excited about. Changes daily!

Above Details: trench coat sleeve edges left unhemmed; rolled pant cuffs; boots laces (I’m thinking of replacing the black laces with neon orange rope)

Below: The basic outfit. To balance out my bright blue pants, I kept everything else neutral. Don’t forget the statement necklace!

Olive Trench Coat – F21, DIY Sleeveless
Black Silk Blouse – Thrifted
Gray Cardigan – American Eagle, Thrifted
Blue Pants – Zumiez, Thrifted (last seen here and here)
Lace Up Boots – Thrifted, new with tags (last seen here)
Braided Rope Necklace – Buffalo Exchange (last seen here, here, and here)
Scarf – Thrifted
Gloves – from Gift Mother-in-law

—
Linked up with Real Momma, Real Style and Monday Mingle