Sometimes the equation for an outfit doesn’t have to be complicated. That proved to be the case with this Thursday-but-really-Friday ensemble I pulled together yesterday. The last day of the week before a holiday weekend can be tough to remain productive and not in full relaxation mode, and like “casual Friday”, the last day of the week can yield to some of the most leisurely pieces in my closet. But I resisted the urge to wear my most casual of office looks (usually a t-shirt, drapey pants, and sneakers) thanks to a super arty and beautiful necklace that was gifted to me by a Jewelry Affaire published artist. Like a kid who gets a new toy on Christmas, my excitement caused me to want to wear it right away, which meant forgoing a thoughtless Thursday outfit for something a little more pulled together.
I won’t say that I didn’t try on a few different tops before realizing the most reliable outfit equation – neutral basics + statement accessory – works 95% of the time. So that’s what I did. I pulled on a simple grey top, my favorite black jeans with rips in the knees (yes, Dad, I bought them like this … EXTRA 40% off though, THANKS, J. CREW), my St. James striped shirt for an extra layer for the AC in my office, and a pair of slightly heeled sandals from Topshop. Those basics provided an ideal canvas for my new decorative, one-of-a-kind bauble. The artist, Melinda Barnett, carved a block of wood to look like a faceted gemstone and finished it with a couple layers of blue paint and gloss. This is, without a doubt, my most handmade looking piece of jewelry, and I’m so happy to add it to my collection of mostly manufactured, mass produced pieces. Not knocking the jewelry sections at my favorite stores, however, there’s something special about speaking to the artist who handcrafted the piece and asked you to have it, you know?
I am currently in an Independence Day state of mind (three day weekend!), listening to a Billy Joel record, sipping iced tea, and thinking about how I will incorporate red, white, and blue into my outfit tomorrow. That being said, have a very delightful and safe 4th of July!
NATALIE WAY 
Such a gorgeous necklace! ❤