Today's Everyday Fashion: Instant Romper

Inspiration: Getty/Dave M. Benett/VF14 via FabSugar

My belt really needs to be black on the sides for this J.Law recreation to work, it almost looks like a little skin showing through. That unfortunate detail aside, I'm a huge fan of creating a romper with items already in your closet. Black shirt + black shorts or pants = instant romper/jumpsuit that doesn't require getting naked to use the restroom. Have you ever faked a romper?

Top: Banana Republic, $35 (similar, similar)
Shorts: J.Crew Factory, $31
Belt: Limited, $22
Shoes: Forever 21, $37 (similar, similar, similar, flats, flats)
Clutch: Urban Outfitters, $30 (similar)
Necklace: INPINK c/o, $30
Approx. dates: Top and clutch are 4 years ago. Shoes and necklace are 1 year ago. Shorts are recent.

Another celeb look for less: Malin Akerman vs. Calvin Klein Dress 

Or try the same Calvin Klein dress in a maxi version, or the options below!

 

Kas Lauren  /  MinkPink  /  Nordstrom
Shopbop  /  Three of Something  /  Nanette Lapore
JCPenney  /  Nasty Gal  /  Bluefly

Today's Everyday Fashion: Black and White

Inspiration: Sincerely Jules

Today I'm taking inspiration from Sincerely Jules for an outfit with my black and white shoes. About four inches longer on the skirt, and this could even work for work. Black and white graphics with a pop of orange red - give it a try in your closet!

Top: Ann Taylor c/o (similar, similar)
Skirt: LOFT, $30 (similar, similar)
Shoes: Payless "Krime", $20
Purse: Michael Kors/Macy's, $270
Necklace: BaubleBar c/o, $58 (similar, similar, similar)
Earrings: My Stella & Dot, $19
Approx. dates: Skirt is 3 years ago. Top and purse are 1 year ago. Necklace and shoes are recent.

Nordstrom  /  Fergie  /  Target  /  Dooney & Bourke
ModCloth  /  H&M  /  Nordstrom
Amazon  /  H&M  /   Macy's

Today's Everyday Fashion: Periwinkle and Mustard

Inspiration: Karen Walker

The two things I love about this shirt are the two things that make it hard to wear. The racerback ruffles mean layering it under something will cover most of the detail. And the periwinkle color is surprisingly hard to pair with colors other than basic white or navy. The inspiration photo sparked an idea to add mustard to the mix, and coral came last. Nude shoes would work well for this one, too!

Top: Banana Republic, $35 (similar, similar)
Skirt: J.Crew, $45 (similar, similar, similar)
Shoes: Limited, $25 (similar, similar)
Purse: Calvin Klein/Saks Off Fifth, $130 (similar, similar)
Necklace: My Stella & Dot, $89
Earrings: My Stella & Dot, $19
Approx. dates: Top is 4 years ago. Skirt is 4 years ago. Shoes and purse are 1 year ago. Necklace is recent.

ASOS plus  /  Ralph Lauren  /  ASOS  /  ASOS
 ASOS  /  ASOS  /  Bikini Lab  /  Roxy  
ModCloth  /  Victoria's Secret  /  Topshop  /  Nordstrom

Also - I officially have swim fever and I've been doing lots of browsing (and a little buying - I ordered the black halter!). Check out my latest post on Babble: 10 Swim Trends to Try This Summer for the full scoop. 

Today's Everyday Fashion: Being a Girl

I grew up climbing trees, swimming, and playing in creeks. My favorite toy was a hand-me-down G.I. Joe doll. But I also had a girlie side. I took ballet and loved playing dress up, especially when I went on "dates" with my grandpa. This outfit - the soft ruffles, sheer roses and lace-up shoes - reminds me of everything I love about being a girl. I will always be ready to play in the mud at a moment's notice, but sometimes being soft and sweet is just as fun. 

Top: H&M, $18
Skirt: Varga c/o, $49 (similar, pencil)
Purse: Sole Society, $30 (similar, similar)
Shoes:  ShoeDazzle "Belisma" c/o (sold out - similar, designer, flats) 
Earrings: My Stella & Dot, $19
Bracelets: My Stella & Dot, $59 and My Stella & Dot, $39
Rings: My Stella & Dot, $29 and Michael Kors c/o Reeds
Nail color: Essie "Ballet Slippers"
Approx. dates: Top is 3 years ago. Purse is 1 year ago. Shoes are recent, skirt is new.

BCBG  /  H&M  /  Anne Klein
Mango  /  H&M  /  Nordstrom
Urban Outfitters  /  Free People  /  Forever 21

Today's Everyday Fashion: Primary Colors

Inspiration: Sole Society

I don't want the holiday weekend to end! I'm easing back into the swing of things with a colorful shorts outfit. Pairing yellow and red can feel a tad "ketchup and mustard" but with electric blue in the mix, it's a color combo anyone can pull off. All yellows aren't created equal so I recommend trying a few until you find one that works for your complexion. Or wear yellow away from your face like shorts, shoes or accessories instead of the top.  

Top: LOFT, $25
Shorts: Limited, $30
Purse: Ann Taylor, $30 
Shoes: Nine West/DSW, $17 (similar, similar)
Necklace: Topshop, $15
Approx. dates: Necklace is 3 years ago. Purse is 2 years ago. Top, shorts, and shoes are 1 year ago. 

Jessica Simpson  /  Anne Klein  /  Stella & Dot
Limited  /  Calvin Klein  /  House of Harlow  /  ASOS
Kendra Scott  /  Lucky Brand  /  JCPenney

My March Budget

J. Crew Factory, $55  /  J. Crew Factory, $59  /  LOFT, $30
LOFT, $35  /  Ann Taylor, $30
Target, $18   /  J.Crew Factory, $37  /  Piperlime, $17

Grand total = $281

I'm a good two months behind on my clothing budget. I haven't had much time or desire to go shopping lately, and I prefer not to force it. I can save up for a bigger purchase that way (my one handbag per year, perhaps?) or at the very least wait until I find items I truly love. I did manage to pick up a couple fun pieces along the way though. Dresses, fun prints and casual boho, plus a hat for an event. What items are you shopping for this spring/summer?  

 For more info see "How to Set a Clothing Budget."

Dress  /  Shoes  /  Belt

Also - I'm still shopping for engagement photos, but this is my current outfit plan.

Dress & Necklace  /   Top & Shorts   /   Dress (similar)

Also up for consideration: some things I loved in the fitting room recently. First two photos are from J.Crew Factory, last is BR Factory.

Today's Everyday Fashion: Tie Dye and Tees

Inspiration: Elle Macpherson via FabSugar

Today's idea: Give tie dye a try this summer a la Elle Macpherson (she makes it look so good!). Blue and white pairs well with Americana like flag motifs and rock t-shirts. 

More ways to wear it: If tie dye is just not your thing, then blue, white or black denim also works. 

My take: Following the theme of yesterday's post - a t-shirt and shorts are an easy default. Details like tie dye, t-shirt graphics and t-strap sandals make it more fun. 

Also: In honor of Memorial Day tomorrow, I want to take a moment to thank all current and past service men and women. Thank you for your service to our country!  

Tee: H&M, $15
Shorts: Kohl's, c/o
Shoes: Dolce Vita c/o NM Last Call, $63 (similar)
Purse: Calvin Klein/Macy's, $130 (similar, similar)
Spike bracelet: My Stella & Dot, $59
Rings: My Stella & Dot, $29
Approx. dates: Shorts and tee are 2 years ago. Shoes and purse are 1 year ago.

Bloomingdale's  /  Ralph Lauren  /  Forever 21
Hudson  /  Delia's  /  Anthropologie  /  Billabong
Forever 21  /  Wet Seal (plus)  /  Billabong

Today's Everyday Fashion: Coral and Mint

Inspiration: Eva Mendes via FabSugar

Today's idea: Try mixing coral and mint in your closet, inspired by Eva Mendes! It can be easy to throw on a t-shirt and shorts in the sweltering heat, but it's fun to step it up a notch from time to time. Little things like a lightweight necklace, detailed top or creative color combo make all the difference. 

More ways to wear it: If you get cold (at night, in the a/c), throw on an olive military jacket - it works for both outfits pictured.

My take: Eva's look is one of my favorite outfits ever, she looks great! I appreciate the inspiration so I could create my own easy version for running errands. 

Top: Forever 21, $12 (similar, similar, similar)
Shorts: Kohl's c/o (similar, similar, pleated)
Necklace: Everyday Icing c/o (similar, similar, similar)
Shoes: Dolce Vita c/o DNA Footwear (same, same)
Purse: Calvin Klein/Saks Off Fifth, $130 (similar, similar)
Approx. dates: Shorts and top are 2 years ago. Necklace, purse and shoes are 1 year ago.

Botkier  /  Fossil  /  Elliott Lucca
Steve Madden  /  Marc Jacobs  /  Fossil
Steve Madden  /  Rampage  /  Nine West
BooHoo  /  Nordstrom  /  Forever 21  /  ASOS (plus)  /  Zappos

Today's Everyday Fashion: Mixed Prints

Inspiration: BFA NYC via Bazaar

Today's idea: Mixed prints are all the rage, so now is the time to experiment with whacky combinations. It will give you more mileage with your printed pieces by increasing the number of potential outfits in your closet! 

More ways to wear it: Take a cue from the inspiration and pair a black and white print with a colorful one. In place of the pink accessories, you can also try a simple nude or black shoe and purse.

My take: There's a lot going on in this look, but I like the idea of making a houndstooth skirt work for spring, and a new way to wear this colorful top. I may just give it a try in a creative work environment. 

Top: Piperlime, $17 (similar plus)
Skirt: Limited, $35 (similar, similar, mini)
Clutch: Gap, $16 (similar, similar)
Shoes: Limited, $25 (similar, similar)
Earrings: My Stella & Dot, $19
Pink bracelet: BaubleBar, gift
Approx. dates: Skirt, shoes and clutch are 1 year ago. Top is recent.

GUESS  /  Victoria's Secret  /  Calvin Klein
Ivanka Trump  /  Nine West  /  Charlotte Russe
Volcom  /  Sperry  /  Ivanka Trump

Today's Everyday Fashion: Wedding Guest

Inspiration: Harper's Bazaar

Today's idea: For your next big event try wearing a dress you've had for years. Make it feel new again with on-trend shoes, purse and/or jewelry.

More ways to wear it: Try a nude peep toe pump in patent leather. Or go for a bold pop of color in bright pink or coral for your shoes or clutch.

My take: This was an alternate outfit I packed for a casual wedding I recently attended (here). I also wore it with nude shoes for a segment on Fox 35 yesterday -  see a pic on Instagram!

Dress: C. Luce c/o old boutique, $70 (similar, similar, similar)
Shoes: Wet Seal c/o Chippmunk, $9 (similar, similar, similar)
Purse: Sole Society, $30 (similar, similar)
Necklaces: My Stella & Dot, $59 and My Stella & Dot, $89
Earrings: My Stella & Dot, $19 
Approx. dates: Dress is four years ago. Purse is 1 year ago. Shoes are last winter. Necklaces are recent.

~Prim & Proper Under $100~
Adrianna Papell  /  Betsey Johnson  /  Ted Baker  /  Marc New York
Glamorous  /  Sole Society  /  Jessica Simpson  /  Trouve
Vince Camuto  /  Topshop  /  Ivanka Trump  /  Taylor Dresses

Nordstrom's Half-Yearly Sale started yesterday and I found so many great things under $100! I divided them up into two fun groups - happy shopping! 

~Boho Chic Under $100~
Free People  /  Blank  /  June & Hudson  /  Free People
Isola  /  Raga  /  Dolce Vita  /  Blank
Free People  /  ASTR  /  Free People  /  Flying Tomato
 

Today's Everyday Fashion: Colorful Sandals

Inspiration: Who What Wear

Do you ever reach for something - either in your closet or while you're out shopping - and think "hmm, can I wear this? is this 'in style'?" That thought sometimes creeps into my head, too. Like when I reach for this rainbow belt, or these fringe shoes - but then I quickly push it away! Don't worry too much (ever!) about what's in style, just go for it if it feels right to you. Also, I finally solved the mystery of olive cargo pants. I have a couple pairs in a skinny fit and while I love the aesthetic, I never wear them. When I tried on these pants though, it all came together. I prefer the looser, comfy fit and I'm so glad I finally found a pair that I will wear like crazy!

Top: Windsor Store c/o (similar, similar, similar)
Pants: LOFT, $30 (similar, similar, similar)
Belt: Rogue Retro c/o, $15 (similar, similar) 
Shoes: Madden Girl c/o MJR Sales (similar)
Purse: Karen Millen, gift (similar, similar, similar)
Earrings: My Stella & Dot, $19 
Rings: My Stella & Dot, $29
Nail polish: Essie "Ballet Slippers"
Approx. dates: Shoes, belt and purse are 3 years ago. Top is recent, pants are new.

Amazon  /  Dolce Vita  /  Zara
Jessica Simpson  /  Steve Madden  /  Minnetonka
Minnetonka  /  Diba  /  Dolce Vita
Reef  /  Zara  /  DSW

Today's Everyday Fashion: Pink Gingham

Inspiration: Le 21ème | Adam Katz Sinding via Fabsugar

I've been craving pink gingham so much this spring. It's a little bit country, a lot feminine and it looks great paired with fresh neutrals like all-white or ivory, a la my inspiration photo. How would you style pink gingham?

Top: J.Crew Factory, $41
Skirt: Banana Republic, $35 (similar, similar, similar)
Shoes: Windsor Store c/o (similar, similar, similar)
Purse: Calvin Klein/Macy's, $130 (similar, similar)
Necklace: My Stella & Dot, $59
Earrings: My Stella & Dot, $19 
Approx. dates: Skirt is 4 years ago. Shoes and purse are 1 year ago. Shirt is recent.

C. Wonder  /  Nordstrom  /  Ralph Lauren  /  Lauren Conrad
JCPenney  /  Topshop  /  Ralph Lauren (plus)
Target  /  Free People  /  Forever 21  /  Banana Republic

Today's Everyday Fashion: High Tea & Hats

Inspiration: Pretty Woman

I was so honored to be a hat judge at yesterday's High Tea & Hats annual event, benefitting Seniors First! I picked up this hat during a recent shopping trip to Ann Taylor, and realized a polka dot dress I had ordered a few weeks back would be the perfect match. I wore wedges in case the event took place in grass. The polka dot hat band and coordinating dress felt just a tad Julia Roberts in the Pretty Woman polo match scene - it was so fun to wear! 

Dress: J. Crew Factory, $59 (sold out online)
Hat: Ann Taylor, $30 
Shoes: Guess/Marshall's, $25 (similar, similar, similar)
Clutch: Sole Society, $30 (similar, similar)
Necklace: My Stella & Dot, $59
Earrings: My Stella & Dot, $19 
Approx. dates: Shoes and purse are 1 year ago. Hat and dress are new.

With fellow hat judges Tuni Blackwelder (owner of Tuni) and Lesley Gayle of 107.7

J. Crew Factory  /  Wallis  /  Boden
Amazon  /  Dillard's  /  Romwe  /  Limited
New York & Co.  /  ModCloth  /  Wallis

Today's Everyday Fashion: Pineapple

Inspiration: Tory Burch

Today's inspiration photo gave me the idea to pair an old polka dot dress with a mustard cardigan. When that didn't go so well (the colors were not vibing), I pulled out these shorts instead, and added the pineapple t-shirt to tie it all together. My pineapple top is from last year but tons came up in my search - I narrowed it down to 4 inexpensive options in my similar links below!

Top: H&M, $10 (similar, similar, similar, similar)
Shorts: Old Navy, $20 (similar, similar, similar)
Cardigan: H&M, $18 (similar, similar, similar)
Shoes: Nine West/DSW, $17 (similar, similar)
Purse: Karen Millen, gift (similar, similar, similar)
Earrings: My Stella & Dot, $19 
Approx. dates: Cardigan is 4 years ago. Shorts and purse are 2 years ago. Top and shoes are 1 year ago.

Also - I've had "bra shopping" on my to-do list for close to a year. So when Kohl's asked if I would check out their bra department with a gift card, I said yes. Partly because it's my favorite place when I do shop for bras (can't beat their prices) but also because I took it as a sign from the universe that my current bras were really in that bad of shape. Here are my top 5 bra finds: 

1. Best Bandeau Solution
Bandeau worn over bra: similar from Kohl's, $22

This pineapple top is a swim cover up, or maybe the arm holes are just really that big. Either way, I can't wear a regular bra under it, and I hate wearing camis in the Florida heat - so this type of bandeau is perfect for covering a strapless bra. I'd keep the cardigan on if possible, but I feel better knowing I'm covered just in case!

2. Best Seamless Solution
Seamless bra: c/o Kohls, $12

On the left you see my old bra which created horrible lines in many of my shirts! On the right is the bra I found during my shopping trip. It looks a lot like a sports bra, but way more comfortable, slightly padded and doesn't smush the ladies. Plus, if your strap accidentally shows, it looks more like you're wearing a cami than a bra.

3. Best Everyday Bra
Wonderbra: c/o Kohl's, $24

This bra in nude is now my daily go-to! 

4. Best Racerback Solution
Racerback bra: c/o Kohl's, $15

My friends started wearing these cute bralettes that have lacy backs last summer. I was slow to hop on this trend, but the neon color of this one enticed me and I loved the fit once I had it on. I'm still getting used to the idea of showing any part of a bra, but this one was made to stand out!

5. Best Inexpensive Bra
SO Push Up: c/o Kohl's, $15

Another great everyday bra, this one is no-frills in the nude color and a great price. What are your favorite bra stores, brands, and/or fit tips?

Today's Everyday Fashion: Ambiguous

Sometimes you have no idea where your night may take you, or how to interpret an invitation. You may wind up playing in the park, you may wind up at a nice restaurant... this outfit is my ambiguous solution. Take a couple things that are casual - a t-shirt and (almost) flat shoes, and add a couple things that are fancy - a statement necklace and a leather clutch. The skirt could be worn dressed up or down, so it pulls it all together. I was ready to go, no matter where I wound up. More skirts below that would work in this type of outfit. What are your outfit strategies for ambiguous occasions?

Top: LaMixx c/o, $24 (similar, similar)
Skirt: Target, $18 
Shoes: Call It Spring c/o, $50 (similar, similar)
Clutch: Gap, $16 (similar, similar)
Necklace: BaubleBar c/o, $58
Approx. dates: Top and purse are 1 year ago. Shoes and necklace are recent. Skirt is new.

MinkPink  /  Charlotte Russe  /  Piperlime
BooHoo  /  Romwe  /  PIperlime
Banana  /  Express  /  Banana

Today's Everyday Fashion: Seasons

Inspiration: Getty / Daniel Zuchnik via PopSugar

I figured I wouldn't wear this plaid top again until summer was over. But I was inspired to style it with shorts via this street style photo. Wearing fall colors in the summer may not always be your first instinct, but it has a similar effect to wearing brights in the dead of winter - it's refreshing! If you've got a plaid top that was on heavy rotation last winter, give it a try with shorts this summer.

Top: Limited, $25 (similar, similar)
Shorts: Spiegel, c/o (similar, similar, similar)
Shoes: Nine West/DSW, $17 (similar, similar, similar)
Purse: Karen Millen, gift  (similar, similar, similar)
Necklace: My Stella & Dot, $79
Earrings: My Stella & Dot, $19 
Approx. dates: Purse is 3 years ago. Shorts, shoes are 1 year ago. Top is last fall. 

One  /  Two  /  Three
Four  /  Five  /  Six  /  Seven
Eight  /  Nine  /  Ten

Also - I'm not a fan of shopping a celebrity clothing line just because it has a celebrity's name on it. However, Zooey Deschanel for Tommy Hilfiger = so stinking cute, I had to share! Top row is my favorite. Do you like this celeb collab?

Today's Everyday Fashion: Mixed Patterns

Inspiration: Piperlime

I love this idea for mixing patterns via Piperlime. I had almost identical pieces already in my closet so this one was a breeze to-recreate. It could work with so many different types of crochet/lace tops and printed bottoms - hopefully you can give it a try in your closet for an easy outfit idea. To make this work appropriate, I'd add a white blazer, white tank underneath (so you can see the tank more clearly) and navy pumps!

Top: Windsor Store c/o, $19 (sold out)
Pants: Gap, $28
Shoes: Dolce Vita c/o NM Last Call, $63 (similar)
Purse: Calvin Klein/Macy's, $130 (similar, similar)
Earrings: My Stella & Dot, $19
Approx. dates: Skirt and shoes are 1 year ago. Pants are last fall. Top is recent.

Victoria's Secret  /  Choies  /  Express
Forever 21  /  Dillard's  /  Anne Klein  /  Urban Outfitters
Banana Republic  /  J.Crew Factory  /  Limited

Today's Everyday Fashion: Airport Safari

Inspiration: Couture Candy

Fergie is taking the "safari" trend quite literally and my re-creation wound up in that territory, too! The version without the hat feels better suited for real life, although I love traveling with a fedora so I might wear one if I were at the airport like she is. The safari trend is not new - I've had these shorts for going on 8 years, but I find myself wearing it a lot lately. I ordered the LOFT pants below and I love them! They will be in on rotation all summer long, both on and off the blog. 

Top: Spiegel c/o
Shorts: Forever 21, $18
Shoes: Call It Spring c/o, $50
Hat: Banana Republic, $25 (similar, similar, similar)
Purse: Michael Kors, $270
Approx. dates: Shorts are 8 years ago. Hat is 4 years ago. Purse is 2 years ago. Top is 1 year ago. Sandals are recent.

Zappos  /  Madewell  /  Vince Camuto  /  Free People
LOFT  /  H&M  /  Hanna Andersson  /  Anthropologie
Michael Kors  /  Zappos  /  Kohl's

Today's Everyday Fashion: Red and Pink

Inspiration: FabSugar

My inspiration may be better suited for cold weather, but I took her floral, red and pink combo and ran with it. This outfit feels familiar because I've worn this skirt a hundred times, and red and pink are a favorite combo of mine, but never the two have met in my closet until today. Red and pink are classic flower colors, so adding a bit of floral to the mix makes perfect sense in my book. Shop more of this trio under $100 below!

Cardigan: H&M, $18
Top: Banana Republic, $30
Skirt: J.Crew, $48
Shoes: Bandolino/TJ Maxx, $22 (similar, similar)
Purse: Page 6 c/o, old (similar, designer)
Earrings: My Stella & Dot, $19
Rings: My Stella & Dot, $49
Nail polish: Essie "Ballet Slippers"
Approx. dates: Skirt and shoes are 4 years ago. Top is 3 years ago. Cardigan and purse are 2 years ago.

New York & Co.  /  ASOS  /  Forever 21  /  JCPenney
ASOS  /  J.Crew  /  Choies  /  Zappos
Vince Camuto  /  Piperlime  /  Choies  /  Lily Pulitzer

Today's Everyday Fashion: The Pajama Trend

Inspiration: Jenna Dewan via Kohl's

My first attempt at the pajama trend went over like a lead balloon (here), but I'm back and trying it again! (And yes, I will still be wearing those lace-trim shorts!) The minute I spotted this Jenna Dewan outfit I knew I wanted to give it a try. I asked Kohl's PR team if I could borrow the pants to re-create her look (they're only $30!), and the rest was already in my closet. Between the loose fit and satin material, this is one trend that is incredibly comfy, no matter how it may look. Is this a version of the pajama trend you would wear? 

Jacket: Conversation Pieces c/o, old
T-shirt: Gap, $10 (similar, similar)
Pants: Peter Som for Kohl's, $30 - borrowed
Shoes: Steve Madden/Piperlime, $64 (same, same)
Purse: Juicy Couture/NM Last Call, $115 (similar)
Earrings: My Stella & Dot, $44
Approx. dates: T-shirt and purse are 4 years ago. Jacket is 2 years ago. Shoes are 1 year ago. Pants are borrowed.

Madewell  /  Angie  /  BooHoo
Amazon  /  Choies  /  Nordstrom
Topshop  /  6pm.com  /  Amazon