Monogram Madness

Hat:  Marley Lilly
Top:  Lauren Ralph Lauren (Macy's)
Capris:  Counterparts (Steinmart)
Bag:  Dooney & Bourke
Flipflops:  Lindsay Phillips
Custom Shoe Clips:  Initial Perfection (Etsy)

I love monograms.  If something can be monogrammed, it's a good bet I'll prefer it that way.  When I was in the 5th grade, my cousin Donna (whose style I have always admired) got me a monogram sweater for Christmas.  I was so proud of that sweater and wore it constantly.  I loved that it was unique and customized just for me.  Over the years, I've acquired all manner of monogrammed items, from towels and totes to a Swiss army knife purchased during a backpacking trip to Interlaken that is affectionately referred to only as "the JLD," as in "Can I borrow the JLD to cut the tag off of this sweater," or "We don't need to bring a corkscrew because I have the JLD."

I also like to give monogrammed items to loved ones to celebrate special occasions - it's the ultimate personalization that says "this is for you and only you." Giving someone a monogrammed gift shows that you've planned ahead and put thought into the purchase.  Of course, it's important to get the monogram right - I once gave my childhood best friend a monogrammed silver candle holder beautifully engraved with the initials MAD, only to be gently reminded later that her monogram had changed to MAL when she got married...4 years earlier!  I may never live that one down. 

My latest monogrammed acquisition is this embroidered straw hat with navy and white polka dot sash from Marley Lilly.  It's a classic preppy look when paired with capris in emerald green (the Pantone 2013 Color of the Year) and a navy and emerald striped boat neck top.  I generally recommend wearing only one monogrammed piece at a time, but I couldn't resist the addition of navy and green monogrammed shoe clips to this casual weekend outfit, resulting in a literal head to toe monogrammed look.

Here's a bonus picture of the sweater that started it all (still love the sweater and my Great Grandpa Ralph; hate my hair cut!):

Fashion is what you buy; Style is what you do with it!