Feeling uninspired by her career as a kindergarten teacher, Taylor Brown wanted to channel her love for shopping and lifestyle in a way that could benefit others. Describing her style as “classic, attainable and typically casual,” Brown says that her goal is to “inspire women to look and feel confident in their skin without breaking the bank.”
In 2015, the former Maple Grove resident developed The Styled Press, a blog that features a variety of lifestyle content and is home to beauty tips, seasonal fashion fads, family life updates, product reviews, gift ideas and shopping guides to finding bargains.
As a fulltime lifestyle blogger, Brown says her career is less structured than a typical 9-5 job, but it is all worth it in the end because she is doing what she loves. “It is definitely my passion project,” she says. “I put my heart and soul into it.”
As the seasons change, so does Brown’s fashion eye. We turned to her for some winter style inspiration. With trends coming and going so quickly, Brown says that fads tend to upcycle from season to season in order to stay current with the times and of course, weather conditions. She says that the biggest challenge in winter fashion is being able to stay warm and comfortable while making a flattering statement. “People don’t want to look like a big marshmallow,” she says.
Though staying warm is important, Brown says that you don’t always have to rely on a puffy jacket. Instead, layer different textured sweaters, vests and scarves for a cute, yet effortless look. To draw more interest to these basic elements, Brown suggests combining a variation of tones and textiles from accessories like animal print (leopard, crocodile or snakeskin) ankle boots, a multicolored plaid scarf or wide brim hats and fedoras.
However, style is not the only thing to consider. Brown says that given our brutal Minnesota winters, it is also important to think about and invest in items that are practical. And sometimes that can come with a heftier price tag. But a higher value can equate with better quality pieces that are built to withstand a variety of weather conditions and are made to last.
Stores like Dick’s Sporting Goods, DSW and Nordstrom Rack carry a diverse collection of quality brands from Sorel, UGG, North Face and Patagonia. Brown says that these brands offer a great selection of outerwear for the whole family that is not only fashion forward, but also worth the extra dollar. For a trendier approach, Brown suggests places like Evereve, Flaunt Accessories and Leela & Lavender in Maple Grove for day-to-day wear like cardigans, sweaters, ponchos, wraps and designer denim.
Summer and fall trends filled with neons, tie dyes, graphic tees and ribbed materials will transition into cold-weather variations using the same styles but in longer layers and warmer neutral tones, such as taupe, wine tones, burgundy, olive and burnt orange. In addition, layering can also be a great way to draw interest and add texture from warmer fabrics like velvet, faux fur, tweed and leather.
Pro Tips:
- A boyfriend-style plaid blazer is a great way to effortlessly add dimension to any look. Dress it up for work with a tailored trouser and crisp blouse, or make it casual with a pair of your favorite jeans, a comfy graphic tee and fresh sneakers.
- Spice up your night, and make your winter date night look edgy and cute with a basic camisole, structured blazer, faux leather leggings and funky booties.
Blog Advice
Family Life
New to motherhood, Brown shares her journey. Featuring topics on pregnancy from maternity must-haves, bump updates to what to pack in your hospital bag, Brown ensures that her readers are prepared. Her toddler updates provide readers with a glimpse into her day-to-day life through her detailed schedules and kid-friendly food, clothing and toy suggestions.
Style Season: Fashion is meant to fit the entire family.
Beauty
Brown is often asked about her beauty secrets. Offering insight to the products she uses for hair, makeup and skincare, she provides an explanation as to how she uses them, where to find them and frequently shares the newest deals for the latest items.
Fashion
Providing expertise on the best deals and where to go for them, Brown takes pride in showcasing her latest discoveries through a plethora of lists, guides and "Outfit of the Day" Instagram posts. One of her most useful tools is her shopping guides to her favorite stores, including Madewell, Loft, Old Navy, Nordstrom, Target and even Amazon, where she offers extensive lists of must-haves to make your next haul effortless. She also releases a monthly Top 10 list, featuring a full range of her favorite items.
The Styled Press
taylor@thestyledpress.com
Instagram: @taymbrown
Facebook: The Styled Press
Pinterest: thestyledpress
Twitter: @thestyledpress
