Well - what a busy month! Between work and summer social events, I am sorry to say that I have neglected my fashion blogging beauties out there! My apologies ladies! Hopefully you all will forgive me and feast your eyes on this very important blog. Today's post highlights how to mix and match pieces in your own closet to create different looks that can last the rest of the summer and straight into fall. In order to accomplish this, first we need to make sure you have the basics. Below is a list of items that are style staples that every girl should have at her disposal. Each of these pieces are versatile, timeless and can take you from summer to fall in a snap! With that said, here are what I think are the key pieces to covet right now....
1. White Dress
2. Jean Jacket/Jean Vest
3. Shorts
4. Colorful tank
5. Flare Jeans
6. Skirt (mini or maxi)
7. Blazer (or two)
8. Tunic
So....where do I begin? There are so many different looks you can create with just these 8 pieces! First thing first, lets talk about where you can buy some of these hot items. Flare jeans have definitely made a come back this year, whether you are into the trend or not, they are everywhere! This 70's inspired look works best with high wedge or stacked heels. This combination really enhances that "leg lengthening look" that these jeans bring all on their own. Celebrities everywhere have been caught strutting their flared styles all over town. From Jessica Simpson and Eva Mendes, to AnnaLynne McCord, no matter what age or body type, flared jeans are of the moment! Now, if you want to invest in a more expensive pair to get you through all the seasons, I recommend 7 For All Mankind or J Brand. Both these designers are offered at Piperlime. For a more budget friendly pair, check out these blue-washed pair from
GAP for only $69.95!
You can pair these jeans with all of the above mentioned top choices. For a hot summer night, grab your favorite flowy tank to compliment this look. Tanks with a longer back hemline are everywhere and would be the perfect match for a trendy night out! Getting ready for fall? Grab your favorite lightweight tunic from your closet and hit the pavement ready to tackle your day looking oh so FAB! Casual Friday at work? Grab a simple white tank, tuck it into your jeans and throw on a blazer to capture that chic, professional vibe. I adore this striped blazer from
Piperlime for $99. Grab it now and wear it right into the fall!
This blazer (or any other one for that matter) can also be worn over that cute white summer dress! I would pick up a knee-length white dress and use this piece to mix and match all summer long! Pair it with a cool jean vest or jean jacket. Add a brown leather belt around your waist or colorful beaded necklace such as turquoise or coral to really make your outfit pop! In all style scenarios, the dress is simply the backdrop that highlights your other accessories that are truly the shining STAR of the outfit. Check out how Pippa Middleton rocks the white dress/jean jacket look. So regal, yet young and hip at the same time!
STRUT it girrlllll......
The jean jacket/vest is also such a versatile wardrobe piece that has been a staple in my wardrobe for years! Add this to top off your perfect shorts and tank/tunic look. Try a shrunken jean jacket (just like Pippa) over a maxi skirt! You can either wear a tucked in form fitting tank underneath or a longer version that comes right to your waistline where the skirt begins. Mixing the different lengths of the shorter jacket with the longer skirt add depth and dimension to your look. Feeling bold? Add some sky-high sandals or peep toe wedges for a rocker worthy look.
Your shorts and blazer can also take you straight into Fall! Add some tights under your shorts and pair it with some booties! Add your blazer for those crisp nights out on the town! I also LOVE how a blazer looks with skirts. Wear a mini and add either an open blazer or belted version to update your look. Check out how Jayma Mays makes it happen!
I can go on and on for days my friends! It truly is amazing how, with the right pieces, you can create so many great looks without breaking the bank and buying everything in the store! Now - only if I can try and take my own advice, then maybe my shopping addiction wouldn't be so bad!!! Here's to dreaming right??? hehehe :)
Have fun mixing it up girls! And remember, there are no rules in fashion - be bold, be beautiful, be YOU!!
XoXo,
Rachele
