Hello 2018! I've been away from the blog for a while. 2017 was quite the year. It was my first year outside of the classroom, tasked to take years of learning, elevator pitch those skills for a job, and start my career, something I've dreamed up for my entire young adult life. I stumbled a lot. 2017 started with a lot of hope but speed bumps of rejection and personal loss seemed to crush my internal compass. As rough as the beginning half of the year was, persistence and a never-ending will to dream big kept me pressing on, which led me to a job I love and an environment and new set of friends where I feel I can truly be myself.

I don't know where 2018 will lead me, but if there's one resolution I hope to keep, it's to stay positive through the hills and valleys. Oh, and maximize my time, include spending more time on the blog, which brings us back to this, an ode to '60s rock-n-roll.

So I'm milking this rare Florida winter weather for all that it's got. The summer heat was brutal here, so coasting in the 40s and 50s has allowed me to maximize my outwear and boots, which normally collect dust at least 360 days out of the year.

I'm keen on band and military jackets as of late; from Jimi Hendrix to The Beatles, My Chemical Romance, and my all-time favorite, Julian Casablancas circa 2006, these jackets exude strong rock-n-roll vibes. I found this gem from Blank NYC for a steal at Nordstrom Rack. Metallic gold threading and brassy buttons pop against the deep, midnight black velvet. The intricate detail on the base of the sleeves and along the collar make this piece all the more luxe.

A low-knotted, tie neck mini dress in ivory from Nordstrom Rack offers a subtle reference to skinny scarves and disheveled dress shirts from the rock n' roll era, also a la Jimi Hendrix, while knee-high boots add a little '60s go-go. I bought these DV boots from Target and have worn them more than any other boots in my closet this fall and winter season. The over-the-knee boot trend has certainly reached saturation, but I'll indulge in it as long as I can.

To continue with the '60s rock-n-roll theme, I wore these circular Coach shades with daisy rivet detailing. Although I no longer work for the company, I still love everything Coach and was obsessed with this Swagger chain crossbody with quilting and rivet detailing. The brand is putting its signature "C" logo at the forefront lately in unique ways, like this "C" chain link strap in alternating old brass and black copper tones. Also from Coach is my tea rose Apple watch band with mixed metal accents.

Let's talk jewelry. I am on an ear crawler kick as of late, and that's thanks to BaubleBar. Always fascinated with snakes and in love with snake jewelry, these crystal-adorned snake ear crawlers from BaubleBar were a must. I paired it with some of my favorite golden BaubleBar pieces and a new ring from indie brand Little Rooms.

I am a sucker for unusual and antique-inspired rings, and this ring checks both those filters off. Finished in antiqued gold vermeil, the 3 Moons Rosetta ring, has an old-school gentlemen's ring vibe with its intricate detailing and onyx-colored face. It depicts a night sky with three moons set atop a mountainous landscape. The entire Little Rooms line explores retro futurism, offering a "contemporary take on antique jewelry." I've since purchased another ring from this line and am a major fan.

Well, that's all for now. To get the look yourself, check out the gallery below for some of pieces shown and others similar to. Here's to 2018, positive vibes, lots of learning, and more blogs to come. :)

Sixties Style in Band Jackets & OTK