Pulling Off the Nerd Look without Looking Nerdy

I think it’s time to reveal my secret lifelong dream. It’s been long enough; I owe it to you guys to share my oldest aspiration. Since I was a little girl, I’ve always wanted to be….a librarian.

The thing is, librarians have a reputation for being…well, unfashionable. The first thing that pops into everyone’s heads are age-old sweaters, floral dresses that fall to their ankles, and probably cats stowed away in their tacky purses. But I am here to refute these heinous allegations against librarian-kind!

Everyone has a nerdy side, just admit it. I’m most nerdy when it comes to books, so I thought I would share my tips on how to look stylishly bookish! (This is more exciting than it sounds, I promise.)

Aim for luxe, not librarian

Break the librarian stereotype by not dressing like a librarian. Textures like lace and pleats can easily look dated, so make sure the pieces you choose have modern cuts or fresh patterns. (And yes, I am shamelessly carrying the Nancy Drew purse I got when I was eight.)

Pair whimsical and elegant pieces

In the outfit below, I decided to flaunt my eccentric vintage vest. But to keep the look from being overly tacky, I balanced it with a classic skirt and black tights.

Have a smart color scheme (get it, smart?)

You really can’t go wrong with pastels, you know? There’s something very timeless and delicate about soft pinks, greys, and blues. Experiment with different color palettes and see what works best with your skin tone and style!

Are you ready to release your inner nerd? Tell me in the comments below!

~Sky

Styling My Friends – Naomi

What’s more exciting than getting permission to scavenge through other people’s closets? The answer, my friends, is nothing. I was fortunate enough to get to style my sweet (and enviously tall) friend Naomi this week. Rummaging through her wardrobe made me realize how much her fashion sense resembles her personality. Her collection of tasteful hats, cozy knits, and classic heels completely reflected her warmth and individuality. I am a strong believer that you are what you wear!

I’ll never forget her exasperated sigh, accompanied by a word of self-assurance, “Just do it for fashion.” Thanks Naomi, for letting me dress you up!

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Cozy Autumn: Sweater - Kohls; Dress - Goodwill; Shoes - Thrifted

Cozy Autumn: Sweater – Kohls; Dress – Goodwill; Shoes – Thrifted

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Business Chic: Button Down - Candies; Skirt - Goodwill; Shoes - Payless; Pearl Necklace - Great grandmother

Business Chic: Button Down – Candies; Skirt – Goodwill; Shoes – Payless; Pearl Necklace – Great grandmother

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Playfully Nerdy: Top - Walmart; Overalls - Rue21; Tights - Macy's; Shoes - Target

Playfully Nerdy: Top – Walmart; Overalls – Rue21; Tights – Macy’s; Shoes – Target

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Maple & Lace: Top - Kohls; Skirt - Goodwill; Shoes - Payless

Maple & Lace: Top – Kohls; Skirt – Goodwill; Shoes – Payless