Hello my fabulous friends! Hope everyone is doing well. We are now mid way through April, the weather has been fantastic, and my husband and I have had both of or vaccinations and we are starting to feel like things are getting back to a somewhat "new" normal place.
So, let's talk about how to style those easy, breezy, summer outfits, how to add interest to a plain outfit, and how to play with proportion and accessories. Yay! Here we go!
In this first set of photos I want you to notice proportion.
The red bag looks fine with the dress. It's a nice pop of color and the bag hangs to a good length. However, in the next photo the proportions of the round bag are better with the dress.
The geometric pattern of the dress is enhanced by the round bag and the flowy style of the swing dress isn't hampered by the crossbody style of the red bag. Both are good.....However, the round bag is a better choice.
Styling Tip: Creating two looks with one swing dress. Think outside the box when it comes to wearing your clothes. A dress can also be a fabulous top just by folding it up and tucking it in...creating a brand new look!
Next up, this ah-mazing bell sleeve blouse. If you've been following my blog for a while then you know how much I love me some sleeve drama and this top doesn't disappoint.
This top from TopShop at Nordstrom is so perfect for summer. It's cotton so it's breathable and will keep you cool on even the most humid summer days. It also comes in a fab olive color (I have both!)
When I wear a top that has big sleeves I like to keep my proportions on bottom big as well to balance out the visual effect. Big sleeves = flare leg or even wide leg pants. This pair of flare leg jeans is from Express.
This midi length ribbed knit dress and cardigan also provides us a great opportunity to add some visual interest to the outfit. This dress is a bit plain, with an oatmeal color and classic midi shape so adding the MK Crossbody Bag looks fine. It adds a little interest to the waistline.
However, if you're someone who doesn't want to draw interest to your waistline, and/or just want to add some additional color to this monochromatic look then switching out the crossbody for a large shopper bag with some color will do the trick. More color, larger size = added interest to the whole outfit. Adding a hat to any outfit brings added interest as well.
Finally, I want to introduce you to two sweet little linen shift dresses that I recently purchased that you can style a myriad of ways for summer.
This chambray one has pockets (yay!) and is lightweight....perfect for summer.
And this beige (oatmeal?) linen dress (love this color) which does not have pockets, although she is still a new favorite of mine. Ether one can be styled with flat sandals (seen with chambray) or with heels (seen with oatmeal).
This fabulous patterned tote from Vince Camuto adds interest and comes in 8 different color patterns so you're sure to find one that you'll love.
Lastly, I want to add that when choosing your outfit for the day, event, or situation, make sure to remember every part of the look. Jewelry, sunglasses, shoes, a bag. Consider adding a scarf around your neck, or a brightly colored hair tie or bracelet. Creating a "look" is what I think when getting dressed. Always remember that you can show the world who you are without saying a word depending on how you cultivate and style your own personal look.
Leave me some of your favorite styling tips below!
Have a great week peeps! Spring is in the air!!!
Cheers!
XOXO