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my current obsession: the Madewell Nettie Heeled Mary Janes

stinadiane
Feb 15, 2025
1 min read

Updated: Apr 25, 2025

why these shoes have been the perfect addition to my wardrobe.

Over the last year, my Franco Sarto slingbacks were easily my most worn shoe. They worked all year around & effortlessly elevated even the most basic outfits. You know I’m all about making smart purchases, so you could say I was a bit disheartened when they started to fall apart around the one-year mark.

I knew I wanted to replace them with a style what would get equal amount of wear, yet actually last for more than one year. After much research & review reading, I settled on purchasing the Nettie Heeled Mary Janes from Madewell.

For me, they checked all the boxes:

100% leather
Within my budget (under $150)
Positive reviews online
Kitten heel
Run true to size

If you're looking for a shoe that's chic, yet can be worn with everyday casual looks, I highly recommend these leather mary janes. 5/5 Stars✨

Click to shop the Madewell Nettie Heeled Mary Janes

effortless style starts here: why a well-made bag changes everything

stinadiane
Feb 15, 2025
3 min read

Updated: Apr 12, 2025

A great handbag isn’t just an accessory—it’s an investment in style, quality, and longevity. Here’s why spending a little more on a well-made bag can actually save you money in the long run.

Over the years, I've learned that investing in a high-quality leather bag is totally worth your hard earned money vs continually shopping fast-fashion that will only last a season (or two, if you're lucky!).

Leather bags are a timeless staple that only gets better with age. When properly cared for, a well-made leather bag can last a lifetime, making it a smart & stylish investment. Plus, it has the power to instantly elevate any outfit—even the most simple looks—giving you that effortlessly polished look.

MY PERSONAL PICKS

THE EVERYDAY

**Latico Leathers Chance Shoulder Bag in black**

This bucket-style bag is giving effortless cool girl vibes. It's the only bag you'll need- large enough to fit everything important, & still stylish enough top off any everyday look. It's easy to understand why I reach for this bag so often. I got the Chance bag in the color moss, which is this lovely, subtle shade of green. In my opinion, it's the perfect pop if you don't really wear a lot of color. And if green isn't for you, it also comes in black & two different shades of brown.

Shop the bag

Shop all of Latico Leathers

**If you do choose to shop Latico, you can use code STINA15 to save 15% off your purchase

THE WORK HORSE

**Portland Leather Crossbody Tote in dakota**

I simply cannot say enough great things about this bag. Portland Leather gifted me this bag a little over 2.5 years ago, & it's been my consistent work bag this entire time. I've literally put it through hell & back, from endless work travel trips & daily commuting to the office. This bag is durable, timeless & can carry my entire life- everything from a laptop, essentials, a large water bottle, notebook, & snacks. The craftsmanship is top notch, & my bag shows zero signs of structural flaws- like stitching coming apart, seams separating, etc, even after all of these years of constant wear. Comparable to the Madewell Transport tote, but for a fraction of the cost.

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PERFECT FOR ON-THE-GO

**Latico Leathers Crosby Sling bag in cognac**

If you're looking for something a bit smaller for just they key essentials, I love the Crosby Sling from Latico Leathers. It's the perfect hands-free bag for when I'm on-the-go. My favorite feature of this small, but mighty bag, are the 2 small pockets on the side, which come in quite handy for quick & easy access to my most used items like my phone & keys. With over 12 colors to chose from, this bag works with every personal style.

Shop the bag

Shop all of Latico Leathers

**If you do choose to shop Latico, you can use code STINA15 to save 15% off your purchase

CLASSIC & TIMELESS

Vintage coach bags have always been a timeless staple for me. I remember thrifting my first vintage coach bag 15 years ago- a favorite that I still wear today. Nowadays it's a bit harder to find a good Coach bag at the thrift store, but you can find some great second-hand gems on eBay or Poshmark.

I found a few vintage coach bags for you to check out:

**Old Vintage Coach 9058 Black Legacy Hobo**

I own this same vintage coach bag & I get asked all the time about it. This one looks to be in decent condition & reasonably priced.

Shop the bag

Shop the bag

Shop the bag

If I can give you one bit of personal style advice & that is- investing in a quality leather bag is one smart purchase I promise you won't regret. But most importantly, find a bag that works for your style & your budget!

** In full transparency, bags from Latico were gifted to me, but all thoughts are completely my own after using these bags regularly for some time. & If you do decided to make a purchase with them, I may earn a small commission if you use my code.

shop my winter capsule wardrobe

stinadiane
Jan 28, 2025
2 min read

Whether you’re looking for some winter outfit inspo to bring life to your existing closet, or if you’re looking to reinvent your wardrobe this season, I've got you covered.

Why a capsule wardrobe?

A capsule wardrobe is a great way to start exploring your personal style words. For some, a capsule wardrobe is all you will need. For others, this might serve as a foundation for you to build upon over the years.

The great thing about this winter capsule is that you can swap out pieces that might not fit your personal style words for other fashion that does. Use it as a roadmap to curate a wardrobe that works for you!

With endless outfit combos to create, here are 29 affordable pieces you can shop to update your closet.

TOPS

Long sleeve t-shirts in both black & white

LET'S TAKE IT TO THE NEXT LEVEL