1 Girl, 5 Outfits: Sara Albinger

Back today with another installment of 1 Girl, 5 Outfits! This time we’re featuring Sara who lives in upstate New York. She emailed me with the idea of being featured as someone who doesn’t dwell in a city and I loved that idea.

Hey there! My name is Sara Albinger, I’m (almost!) 27 years old and live in the suburbs of Rochester, New York. By day I work downtown as an Informatics Consultant at Excellus BCBS, but in my free time you’ll find me at the library writing and editing as I work towards becoming a writer. I’m all about suburban living and love spending time along the Erie Canal, walking my dog with my husband, painting, or meeting up with friends for a drink. I’m all about balance and my style is no exception.

It took me a long time to figure out my personal style. I had a difficult time transitioning from college attire to business professional, not to mention I’m 5’10”, which can make dressing for my body type a challenge! I spent a few years really buying into fast fashion, but constantly felt what was “in style” wasn’t figure flattering or comfortable for me. When I relocated to Rochester a few years ago I decided to throw out the idea I should like something just because everyone else does. I completely gutted my closet and decided to only purchase items I felt 100% genuine in.

I would describe my style as simple, structured, and feminine. I’m all about wearing things that make me feel like the best version of myself, and the five outfits below do just that. Enjoy!

Outfit One:
Seersucker Blazer (Talbots- similar) // Jean (J. Crew- similar) // White Peplum Shell (NY&Co.- similar) // Flats (J.Crew Factory- similar) // Long Necklace (Banana Republic- similar) // Monogram Necklace (Custom Ordered – here)

Even though I work in a downtown office the dress code is pretty casual. I’m a huge fan of blazers, they elevate any outfit to the next level and look so put together with almost no effort needed. This seersucker blazer is absolutely perfect for the summer time! It’s still structured and formal enough to wear into the office, but the fabric is lightweight and the pattern is so fresh and crisp- perfect for summer!

These are by far my favorite shoes. They give such a delightful jolt of color to any outfit, without being over the top, plus I really enjoy the tassel detailing. Small details can take an outfit from boring to chic.

Outfit Two:
Dress (Max Studio- similar) // Blazer (Theory- similar) / Shoes (Nine West)

This is one of my favorite day-to-night outfit options. Who says going out outfits have to be black? The ribbed silhouette of this dress gives just enough shape to wear out for drinks with the girls, but is still long enough to wear into the office for the work day.

Not to mention this gold blazer is everything. It adds such an unexpected pop of color. The weather in upstate New York can be crazy in the spring and layers are a must- so the ability to pop on a jacket and stay warm is an added bonus.

Outfit Three:
Chambray Top (J. Crew Factory – here) // Skirt (Loft- similar) // Shoes (J. Crew Factory- here) // Necklace (Club Monaco- similar)

One benefit to living in the suburbs is that I can play with color and texture so much more than when I lived in the city (I’m a transplant from Philadelphia!). Chambray shirts are my absolute favorite; I love the California Cool vibe they give off. For contrast, I’ll pair them with a super feminine bottom for a look that’s girl-next-door accessible.

I love the scalloped detailing on this skirt, it’s so subtle and the floral cut-out elevates the outfit to something special. I added a statement necklace for some sparkle. With simple outfits I opt for bigger and bolder jewelry.

Outfit Four:
Black Long Sleeve (Gap- similar) // Midi Skirt (NY&Co.- similar) // Shoes (Nine West- similar) // Necklace (Lauren Ralph Lauren- similar)

Can all us tall girls out there just take a moment to thank the fashion gods for the midi skirt?!
I love the A-Line shape of this skirt; it provides just enough movement and fullness to be flirty but not frumpy. The cinched waist is very figure flattering and the bold floral is perfect for spring and summer. Not to mention it has pockets. AMEN SKIRT GODS, THANK YOU.
Because the skirt is so bright I usually pair it with a black t-shirt to keep things simple. The shoes are a block heel, which I’ve really been digging lately for their vintage vibe. The chain link necklace is one of my favorites- it’s chunky without any glitz or sparkles, perfect for when you just need a little oomph.

Outfit Five:
Dress (Lilly Pulitzer- similar)/ Shoes (J. Crew Factory)

It took me a long time to get on the Lilly train, but when I did she quickly became one of my favorite designers.

I love the detailing on the front of this dress and the pattern is just gorgeous. Rochester never gets too warm, so I tend to buy long sleeved dresses to wear all year round. This dress is great because it’s almost t-shirt material. It’s soft and breathable so I can wear it well into the hottest months of the summer. I added the lace trim to the bottom, the original dress was slightly too short to wear to work (#tallgirlproblems) so I got creative!