personal style | involved in a scandal

i often fantasize about what it would be like to get all dressed up for a red carpet event. having a high-profile stylist searching to find just the right outfit. hair and make-up done to perfection. and you can't forget the accessories to top it all off. 

until that day gets here, i'll keep scouring the interwebs in search of inspiration i can easily recreate myself.

i was a big Kerry Washington fan long before the hit tv drama Scandal hit the air. her simple, yet elegant sense of style is captivating. i know that sounds like alot of fluff, but seriously - the woman's wardrobe game is off the chain.

when i came across this photo of Kerry on The YBF, i immediately knew it was one i wanted to try.

i'd originally planned to wear this outfit to The Girl's high school graduation, but decided against it. it was going to be a long hot day and i figured it would be best to remain casual, while still representing as 'Mom of The Grad'!

the floral and animal print combo is what got me. i've seen similar looks on many other celebs, however none had managed to do it quite like this. subtle and sophisticated. 

top | 9.80 (Forever 21)

animal print belt | 16.99 (Target)

floral skirt | (Dillards - bought years ago)

patent peep-toe slingbacks | 39.99 (Marshalls)

the top and belt are new. i got the skirt when i worked part-time at Dillards during the Christmas holidays back in 2004. and the shoes are five years old...i know this because i keep all my shoe receipts in the boxes. 

and since i don't own an animal print clutch, i've got an itch to turn this garage sale summer trend into a DIY project accordingly. 

without knowing how much i paid for the skirt, at $66.78 - this is the most expensive outfit i've showcased so far. 

aside from that - i had no idea this whole discount style bloggin' thing was gonna be so much fun!