Street Beat: Midwest Jess - Patriotic Style

Jessica Schroeder knows a thing or two about making trends her own. A quick look at her blog and you’ll find them all: winter florals, plaid, colored tights, and oversized sunnies to name a few. The Midwestern native’s keen sense of style comes from taking risks that pay off brilliantly.


Her inspiration outfit; a spin on patriotic chic, pairs a black stars and stripes scarf with a navy peacoat – Jessica thumbs her nose at the notoriously no-no combo of black and navy for an unabashedly individualist style statement. The wide leg flairs and caramel colored accessories add an early ‘70s Love Story inspired flair.


photos courtesy: Jessica Schroeder

Merona Swing Pea Coat Target	Old Navy Cashmere V-Neck Sweater Old Navy	Taverniti So The Soho High Waist Jeans DJpremium.com

What I Want To Look Like Right Now: Me

Housecleaning has its advantages. Last weekend I came across some old photographs and found this.

Yep, dear readers, that little mop topped creature is me. What I find most interesting about this shot is that my style really hasn’t changed in over 30 years (nor have my chubby thighs). I still adore ruffles, plaid, and oxfords, and if my hair would behave, I’d rock that fringe all over again.

Determined to channel my 4 year old self I found these:

Both from Forever 21



I'd wear these with a cute pair of jeans or a pencil skirt. From TopShop



Who does retro 70s better than Marc?



And an actual honest-to-goodness pair from that time period. I might have to make these mine on eBay.

And on a final note. I’m not sure what disturbs me more; the fact that I would wear the exact same outfit today, or that my style peaked in 1971.