the cropped faux fur jacket

it’s FAUX fur. faux real umm-kay.

a faux fur jacket is something i’ve always wanted except living in TX it just felt wrong to get one because it never gets that THAT cold here. UNLESS it’s on major sale. haha, i snagged this one for half off and didn’t think i would keep it but once i touched it there was no turning back. IT IS THE SOFTEST thing ever. i wore it out that same weekend and this jacket is a compliment magnet. everybody wants to… touch it. i mean i don’t even blame them. haha. i feel like a teddy bear in it #literally. it made me realize i never wear brown. so of course i style it here with BLACK. it’s probably a fashion faux pas but i don’t care. the two can be mixed in my opinion. a cropped jacket (faux fur or not) is a great one to have in the mix especially for petites because they don’t make you look shorter when you’re being “swallowed” by a jacket. AND if it’s fur, it adds a fun little texture as well and texture to any outfit always wins.

side happenings: LIFE IS CRAZY. (i keep saying that don’t i?! i can’t help it, it’s true). this past week was loaded of events & being in the presence of empowering women. i was invited to model by our local @nordstromatx in one of their kick off events for Austin Fashion Week #AFW — WOW, what an honor! it’s both terrifying and exciting so you know i’m on board. i come to learn it’s actually a fashion show… so runway, here i come!! all proceeds go to The Kindness Campaign // @tkckindness which is becoming my favorite charity. i had the chance to meet some of the ladies this past week and able to view their curriculum they bring into the schools where they teach kids about #selflove, emotions, feelings, and that YOU ARE ENOUGH just the way you are. their mascot is named Enoughie!! i don’t have kids but i LOVE what they do and wished i was able to experience this curriculum back in elementary school. in a day and age where social media is so prevalent, if you do not have the right mindset about yourself, it will tear you apart no matter what age. more about it later because these ramblings are actually becoming too long but i can’t help it because i have so many great things to share! until next time, xx.

currently on my playlist: dancing with a stranger by Sam Smith & Normani

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top | H&M satin & lace camisole top in natural white — similar
denim | Hudson nico mid-rise skinny jeans in abbey wash (old) — similar // similar by Everlane and $68 // similar from Nordstrom for $65
jacket | BlankNYC cropped faux fur jacket in milk chocolate (wearing size small) — same from Bloomingdales // same from Neiman Marcus // very similar // similar but bomber jacket style
belt | Gucci leather skinny belt in black -- good knock off for $14
bag | Forever 21 faux leather o-ring backpack (sold out) — similar in suede // similar
shoes | Unisa saromi over the knee boot in black suede — similar in a block heel // similar from Target for $45
sunglasses | Karen Walker number one sunglasses in black — love these for $55
necklace | Anthropologie monogram pendant necklace 
rings | Gorjana amara ring set // Amanda Deer c/o CZ solitaire ring // Amanda Deer c/o CZ accents midi ring

rock all the faux fur,
JD

photo credit: Steven Gunter

the ribbed tube skirt

what up january?!

trying something new here on JDC. while this isn’t my favorite look, i’m glad i tried it out. that is what fashion is all about sometimes! and ya girl is out of content so this is gonna have to do for now lol. i’ve been wanting to try a skirted look with the top layered over the skirt and belted as seen here. the mistake with this outfit is the skirt — it’s a tad too long on my short 5’2” self and i’ve pulled it pretty high up on my torso here too, lol. but the idea is to take a tunic sweater, layer it over your skirt (preferably something a little fitted) and belt it. #soclassy. oh hello gucci belt. y’all know how i feel about logos but this belt is an exception. i use it a ton and mainly as a waist belt to cinch things in and polish any outfit. a belt is such a good accessory!

side ramblings: these have been getting long lately so gonna keep it simple this week! i was able to meet @erincondren this past weekend and i LOVE her spirit and energy, she’s all about gratitude. i feel pretty thankful to be apart of their #ECSQUAD considering how i’m a pretty small influencer #pinchme. lemme tell you, Erin Condren knows how to throw a party! i walked away with a sugar rush thanks to @fancyfluffaustin // @sprinklessupcakes // @maggielouiseconfections and a ton of nerdy goodies including a personalized cover with my logo to their life planner, pens, markers, stickers, a bullet journal!! i’ve talked about wanting to start a #bulletjournal before because i love looking at them but now i’m just gonna do it!

currently on my playlist: sunflower by Post Malone & Swae Lee

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top | LOFT mock neck sweater in black (old) — similar 1 // similar 2 // v-neck style // cowl neck style
skirt | ZARA ribbed tube skirt in gray (sold out) — similar 1 // similar 2
shoes c/o | Everlane boss boots in black pebbled leather (wearing size 5.5 for reference) — similar // similar and also my other fave pointed toe bootie
jacket c/o | Ann Taylor velvet moto jacket in black — similar
bag c/o | Everlane foldover pouch in black — same with a crossbody strap
belt | Gucci leather skinny belt in black -- good knock off for $14
sunglasses | Karen Walker number one sunglasses in black — love these for $55
rings | Gorjana amara ring set // Amanda Deer c/o CZ solitaire ring // Amanda Deer c/o CZ accents midi ring

photo credit: Madeline Harper

the cashmere turtleneck dress

oh hey there cashmere.

this is a special piece because it’s my first cashmere item! living in TX, i never have the urge to purchase cashmere. it’s extremely luxe, keeps you super warm but it’s also one of those dry clean fabrics. and y’all know i don’t do dry cleaning (ain’t nobody got time for that!). well, i washed it. haha, yep. you can wash cashmere. i wash everything, even when it says dry clean, i know i’m a real rebel. i just don’t get how you can actually clean something without water?! i digress, it turned out fine. just google it. put it in a closed pillow case (use safety pins), use cold water, and don’t use softener. oh and if you’ve read this far, this dress is sold out #storyofmylife

wow oh wow 2018 FLEW BY! don’t you agree?! i can barely believe this is my last post for 2018. i’ve taken a lot of time to reflect on the last 12 months. reflection is always good and i encourage you to do the same. while this was one of the years i took the most breaks, experienced stagnant growth in terms of stats and sales… ironically, it is the year that stands out in terms of business/career, connections made, friendships cultivated and A LOT of pinch me moments where i clearly remember my adrenaline was running and i had to ask myself “is this really happening to me right now?” moments where i was so happy i wanted to cry (and actually did), when i would wake up and couldn’t believe this was my life i was living. when does this ever happen?! there were so many victories/happenings i can think of that put this huge grin on my face. and it all boils down to… (insert drum roll) it IS a glimpse of what is to come. this is the beginning. cheers to 2019, i hope you look forward to this year as much as i do. seize & create opportunities for yourself with this clean page. live a great story.

side ramblings: what a few weeks of events galore, oh and celebrating my fab self. haha, basically i stuffed my face and treated myself right! i attended a charity event hosted by @thehonestshruth #KeepAustinWarm2018 that benefited Austin Pets Alive, Safe Alliance, and Hope Food Pantry. the white elephant holiday party hosted by @shelbysorrell // @thehonestshruth // @onechelofanadventure // @rachelprochnow was a huge highlight because here i made a ton of friends who are doing so many great things; it inspires me to do even more. oh, and i snagged a HOWDY hat by @frankiejean so you know life is good. AND YES, i’ve worn it already! the gals are holding me accountable for wearing this hat since i’m usually dressed up, “do you own a baseball cap? do you even wear hats? janna, we’ve never seen you dressed down HAHA” christmas at my house was AWESOME! hostess with the mostess right here (jk, i only had muffins and pigs in a blanket to offer) but it was such a great feeling to have everyone over (and to be real, they were only here because i was the only one with the tree HAHA, thank you @kingofchristmas!). we also did an escape room at @lockoutatx, if y’all know me, i love doing these #nerdalert i think i’ve done about eight escape rooms across austin and haven’t escaped ONE (our first one so ya know). we barely made it out of this one but dang, the holidays were so fun. back to reality soon. whomp whomp, thank goodness for coffee! until next time xx.

currently on my playlist: sunday love by VALNTN, Naliya

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dress c/o | Ann Taylor cashmere turtleneck dress in warm neutral melange (wearing size small for reference) — similar by Everlane // similar by J.Crew
bag | CHANEL 2.55 classic double flap bag in black lambskin — good dupe
shoes | Banana Republic magda pointed toe boots in black suede (old) — newer version // similar // similar with a kitten heel
sunglasses | DIFF eyewear ruby 54mm polarized sunglasses in black grey — similar and love these for $55
rings | Gorjana amara ring set // Amanda Deer c/o CZ solitaire ring // Amanda Deer c/o CZ accents midi ring

bring it on 2019,
JD

photo credit: Madeline Harper

#2018bestnine

celebrating 34 years

howdy, 34!

i can barely believe it’s already my birthday again! CRAZY! nonetheless, 34 here we are. i took a moment to read my 33rd birthday post and ah, it was such a good one and a great reminder even a year later. if you know me, i love to celebrate life — all things BIG and small (everyday). and birthday’s are one of them that happen once a year! i’m a firm believer that YOU should always treat YOURSELF right! reflections, janna-style after the jump.

another unexpected color combo: an almost mustard color & black! also, i love the texture that this corduroy skirt adds with the knit sweater and the suede over the knee (OTK) boots. of course, by the time i get to posting it, the skirt is sold out #bloggerprobs. y’all know i can’t let a winter season go by without busting OTK boots out.

side ramblings: last week i was fortunate to attend Kendra Scott x Hillary Kerr's (founder of WHOWHATWEAR) fireside chat at the new KS flagship store in Austin (if you haven’t seen it, it is BEAUTIFUL. i can only imagine the thought and detail that was put into the entire space)! there's always something so empowering about being in a room full of women trying to build their empire #bossbabes. i always love surrounding myself with people like so. it was a great night and Kendra & Hillary imparted some pretty simple reminders to us (yes, i actually do take notes): nothing worthwhile is ever easy, trust your gut, less is more, be the CEO of your own career because no one will care as much as you do, lead with kindness. all great takeaways to apply in daily life. at this event i knew no one except one gal in passing three times, @heynasreen who introduced me to her friend @lisajmakeup AND guess what? that following monday, Lisa asked me to be apart of her photoshoot for a tshirt she’s launching for a good cause. um, HELL YEA. i am a firm believer in ALWAYS SHOWING UP. that is HUGE. no matter if you know anyone or not, or if you have no idea what you’re going to gain from it, etc… i’m all about building connections or what i call these touchpoints in life. you just never know who you’re going to meet or where it’s gonna take you. #powerofpossibilities

currently on my playlist: moving on by Mat Kearney

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i struggled to write this post. i scratched a lot of ideas, drafted and redrafted this. but i thought i'd just let it flow naturally. as i turn the corner to 34, i hope to be blinded by all the goodness that life has to offer. i want it to be so blinding that i have to pause and close my eyes to soak it all in. i hope to look at all set-backs and disappointments as a stepping stone to get me to where i need to be. in a recent conversation my GF stated, “you don’t always get what you want, but you get what you need.” #dropmicquit and here is where i insert of one my favorite dozen quotes:

“life is about the JOURNEY, and never the DESTINATION.”

something that came to me recently was a saying on an @erincondren planner that was sent to me that i have embodied and continue to is, "design a life that you LOVE." i mean LOVE. what does this mean to you? to me, this means doing the things that i LOVE without a care in the world about anything/anyone else. it could also mean getting rid of the junk/people in your life that don't serve you well (and that you know don't serve you well). when things aren’t adding up right, it’s time to start subtracting. this also means knowing your self value/self worth without QUESTION! visualization is key here (and super nerdy so you know i'm on board), so visualize a life that you love — what does that look like? who's in it? what are you doing? what are you "driving" towards? ....and GO FREAKING MAKE IT HAPPEN! most of the time, the only thing holding you back is yourself! if you don’t know what you’re doing, FAKE IT TIL YOU MAKE IT! and if you’re overwhelmed, START SMALL. it doesn’t matter what you do, as long as you’re moving FORWARD & you’re actively making sh!t happen!! now is always the time. the most valuable currency we have is TIME. don't waste a second of it. don’t waste it on negative thoughts/people, blaming yourself, trying to change the past or re-work it. realize that the HERE, the NOW, the YOU are the only things you have control over. BUT allow yourself to believe that the next best thing is around the corner, you just have to open your eyes to be able to see it.

honestly, this probably makes zero sense to you, it’s written very much in what i dub to be janna-rambling-style. but all in all, it makes so much sense to me and that’s all that matters (bc who even reads this?! haha). cheers to you, janna, you’ve come a long way and you’re more sure of yourself than you have ever been in your entire life. stay focused, stay strong. i can’t wait to see what 34 has in store for you. whatever you do, make it #intentional & #EPIC.

top | ZARA off the shoulder sweater in black (old) — similar // similar
skirt | J.Crew Factory corduroy skirt in golden brandy — similar // similar with a ruffle hem // love this one in burgundy for $18
bag | Forever 21 faux leather o-ring backpack (sold out) — similar in suede // similar
shoes | Unisa saromi over the knee boot in black suede — similar in a block heel // similar from Target for $45
sunglasses | Karen Walker number one sunglasses in black — love these for $55
necklace | Anthropologie monogram pendant necklace 
rings | Gorjana amara ring set // Amanda Deer c/o CZ solitaire ring // Amanda Deer c/o CZ accents midi ring

#cantstopwontstop,
JD

photo credit: Madeline Harper

the burgundy & grey edit

burgundy & grey.

burgundy/wine is such a beautiful color every winter/fall season and i think it looks amazing on everyone! here, Ann Taylor sent me this seamed ponte flare dress (great work dress) that also comes in black and petite sizing. if you read this blog, you know i love ponte material, it’s a much thicker and heavyweight material compared to jersey (that clings onto all your body rolls). this one is super flattering and in an A-line fit, i’d say the only thing it’s missing is POCKETS. y’all know how i feel about dresses with pockets! normally, i would pair this color with black as seen in a 2015 post featuring a burgundy pleated skirt & crop top (gosh i look so YOUNG!). however, it just happened to be that my Ann Taylor grey suede pumps were set out so ding ding ding! on top of that, Senreve sent me their crossbody in a saffiano textured leather (= durable) and you can see how they both match SO PERFECTLY?! along with the background for these photos?! love it when it all works out!! so here it is, i encourage you to mix these two colors together!

a last note on this crossbody bag, Senreve is a new up and coming handbag brand that i stumbled upon on IG. and after checking out their bags and how versatile they are i knew i needed one. so here’s what i did... i emailed them, pitched myself knowing i was never going to hear back from them because i am a pretty small influencer. but in business i have learned to always ask and the worst that can happen is that you get no answer or a no. so here’s to the 1% of the time when i actually get a response from a company that sees my value over my numbers! honestly, i feel humbled to be able to work with Senreve and one of those #pinchme moments. i digress, this crossbody can actually be worn with a metal crossbody chain, a leather crossbody chain, the compartments can be removed so you can customize it with the amount of pouches!! that is what i love about Senreve. their mini maestra bag is one of their bestsellers and again, i love how sleek yet versatile it is — you can wear it as a backpack, a crossbody, and a top handle! usually items that have that much versatility do not look as sleek or streamlined so major props to Senreve — where fashion meets function for the working woman.

currently on my playlist: shallow by Bradley Cooper & Lady Gaga (anyone seen A Star is Born?! it’s been on my list!)

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dress c/o | Ann Taylor seamed ponte flare dress in rosy plum (wearing size 2 regular, i recommend sizing down) — similar with a peplum hem
shoes | Ann Taylor mila suede pumps in paver grey (sold out) -- similar // similar
bag c/o | Senreve crossbody in mimosa storm (comes in so many colors!)
necklace c/o | Ann Taylor crystal necklace in gold — matching earrings // love this pearl one
rings | Gorjana amara ring set // Amanda Deer c/o CZ solitaire ring // Amanda Deer c/o CZ accents midi ring
bracelet | Vita Fede mini titan crystal bracelet in gold
watch | Michael Kors darci watch in gold

rock the burgundy & grey combo,
JD

photo credit: Katie J Photography
a post done in collaboration with Ann Taylor.
dress & necklace provided by Ann Taylor, all opinions are my own.

the female pantsuit

the pantsuit gone female style.

in previewing and being fitted for the @theory__ fall collection, i wanted something different. something special to remember that moment by (because uhh, i’ve never been fitted for anything!! i feel so bougie even saying that word lol #lucky). in the end i choose to go with a pantsuit from the Theory good wool collection. the Good Wool Collection is made in Italy and of extra fine merino with ZERO itchy-ness. obviously you can only expect the best from Theory and this suit lives up to my expectations. i feel like pantsuits aren’t really worn these days because it comes across very masculine. to avoid this i went with color vs. black. while the blazer is a long line blazer i love how it fits and the exact length that it drops on my short 5’2” self. the pants are supposed to be cropped but of course fit like normal pants because i’m so dang short. no alterations were needed here (ain’t nobody got time for that)! there’s something so powerful about rockin’ a male suit. i took this janna-style with a satin cami with lace trim (a neck tie blouse will also do) and added three layered necklaces to make this even more chic and classy. lastly, always top off any pantsuit with a pair of pumps to elevate the entire look.

side ramblings: we’re basically in the last month of 2018, CAN YOU BELIEVE IT?! i can’t wait to write a little reflections post on this year. i have already taken advantage with having my @kingofchristmas tree up (actually since October but who cares?!). it’s the best time of the year as there is so much to be thankful for and so much to look forward to. i’m EXCITED — lights, xmas music, hot cocoa, family gatherings… oh my and how can i forget #BIRTHDAYMONTH! you know i’m all about treating yourself right, especially as you get older. i’m already in present wrapping mode and almost done christmas shopping so we should drink to that. AH! one of my friends i met on IG asked me to be her bridesmaid @wanderlustanita! ive only known Anita for two years now and can’t believe she even asked me, what an honor! it reminded me of the friendships i’ve made along this journey and so thankful for these gals who keep me sane. and on another note, the last few weeks have been a whirlwind and so many great things happening in my life right now, i’m all about those pinch me moments! until next time xx.

currently on my playlist: on and on by Mat Kearney (on oldie but goodie in my books)

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top | H&M satin & lace camisole top in natural white — similar
pants c/o | Theory good wool classic slim crop pant in petal pink (wearing size 2)
blazer c/o | Theory good wool long blazer in petal pink (wearing size 2)
earrings | Kendra Scott aston statement earrings in ivory mother of pearl (old) -- similar but smaller // similar
necklaces | Amanda Deer satellite choker in gold // Amanda Deer c/o fine jewelry double horn necklace // Erica Weiner letter press necklace
sunglasses | DIFF ruby 54mm polarized sunglasses in black & grey
shoes | Ann Taylor mila suede pumps in paver grey (sold out) -- similar
bag | Celine micro luggage tote in navy -- similar
rings | Gorjana amara ring set // Amanda Deer c/o CZ solitaire ring // Amanda Deer c/o CZ accents midi ring
bracelet | GUESS twisted metal cuff in silver — similar and a set of three
watch | Michael Kors darci watch in gold

rock all the pantsuits,
JD

photo credit: lil blogger sis @simplyyvan
a post done in collaboration with Theory.
pantsuit provided by Theory, all opinions are my own.

holiday ready with Ann Taylor

for the love of tweed.

gearing up for the holidays with @AnnTaylor today! but let’s start this post off with a little gratitude, shall we? i have wanted to work with Ann Taylor for as long as i’ve been blogging. i’ve tried to knock on this door for so long it feels like. BUT life works in mysterious ways sometimes. i always live by the notion that if it’s not a hell yes, it’s a hell no. it’s kinda an extreme way to live life actually but i’ve come to learn that the best decisions both in business and in life where i applied this thought process yielded the best results that i was most proud of. when Ann Taylor reached out to me to host the re-grand opening of the @anntaylor_arboretummarket in my own city… it was an immediate #HELLYES. even though i knew i was going out of my comfort zone — but hey, it’s all about pushing boundaries amirite?! in the end, it was a fantastic event and an experience i will never forget. i feel so grateful to be able to get to do something like this and know that this is just the beginning. i don’t do this enough but i gotta give myself credit for the hard work i’ve put into this business. anyways, a sappy start but THANK YOU for following along this journey, it’s because you of that i get to do these things so i cannot thank you enough!

i digress. let’s talk tweed. i LOVE tweed. it’s one of those fabrics that scream FALL and uber CLASSY. right up there with brooches and pearls (and you know i love me some brooches. yep, i’m an old lady!). what’s great about tweed is the fabric also adds texture to any outfit. here i’m wearing a one piece dress, but when you pair a tweed skirt or jacket with a blouse or sweater the tweed always becomes the “centerpiece” (if you will). what i love about this dress is the metallic-ness of the tweed in a blue, magenta, and gold color. it’s actually a very unique tweed piece that is going right into my closet for a holiday party! you cannot complete a holiday outfit with some BLING/SPARKLE so i went with a crystal statement necklace and even a pearl statement necklace will work too! here i’m wearing my usual size 2 in the dress, but i think their sizes have gotten larger and i could easily size down and wear a 0 (never happens). in these photos i actually have it binder clipped in the back to make it look more fitted. i didn’t have time to get it altered… so when it came time for the event… at the 13th hour i found a glittery waist belt in my closet to cinch it and voila! love how it always works out! but do size down in all their pieces. i can’t wait to share the rest of the dresses that were sent to me including the: speckled ponte flounce sheath dress and the seamed ponte flare dress (super effortless). i also walked away with more Ann Taylor goodies from the re-grand opening and can’t wait to style them (after i go to costco and buy more hangers.. haha not kidding though LOL #fashionbloggerproblems).

side ramblings: LIFE is CRAZY. in such a good way. i was talking to a friend of mine about daily happenings in my life and my friend turned to me and said, “there are peaks and valleys of life and girl, you’re standing on a mountain top!” i blurted out laughing and nodded my head in agreement. anyways, i just needed to take a moment to document how grateful i feel and how i’m overwhelmed with happiness & joy. quite frankly, i deserve it. and with Thanksgiving around the corner, the timing couldn’t be better. hope y’all enjoy your Thanksgiving with family and friends and i’ll see y’all next time! xx

currently on my playlist: fallin’ all in you by Shawn Mendes

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dress c/o | Ann Taylor tweed sheath dress in blue multi (recommend sizing down, i’m wearing size 2 and it’s a little large, i had to binder clip it for photos. for the event i belted it with a glitter waist belt!) — similar jacket and skirt set //
shoes | Jimmy Choo abel pumps in black patent (the shoes didn’t arrive in time for the photo, but Ann Taylor sent me the leanna bow pumps in black suede that i wore to the event, also comes in red and gold! i love the mid-bow detail, so holiday!) — similar and debated the myra suede bow pumps // marley quilted bow pumps // lorretta pealized suede pumps
jacket | Banana Republic — similar // not similar but LOVE this one // also love this one
bag | DVF lytton clutch in black quilted leather (old) — similar and a good Bottega dupe // similar and in a fun shape
sunglasses | Celine caty sunglases in black (old) — similar by DIFF eyewear // similar by QUAY
necklace c/o | Ann Taylor crystal necklace in gold — matching earrings // love this pearl one
earrings | Kendra Scott aston statement earrings in ivory mother of pearl (old) -- similar but smaller // similar
rings | Gorjana amara ring set // Amanda Deer c/o CZ solitaire ring // Amanda Deer c/o CZ accents midi ring
bracelet | Vita Fede mini titan crystal bracelet in gold
watch | Michael Kors darci watch in gold

#cantstopwontstop,
JD

photo credit: Katie J Photography
a post done in collaboration with Ann Taylor.
dress & necklace provided by Ann Taylor, all opinions are my own.

@anntaylor_arboreutummarket re-grand opening on 11/17/18

special thanks to @polkadotsandgin // @wanderlustanita // @tristan.dav // @atatsteofkoko // @hanonet (not pictured) // Sonceria W. who took time out of their day to drop in, shop, and say hi! i appreciate your support so much!!!