Ahhhh summer is finally here (i.e. the official start of summer being Memorial Day and the month of June). For me summer means shorts, flip flops, sunglasses and bold prints that always seem too happy to wear in the winter. Although all of these pieces sound great I secretly dread wearing them. Why? Because: 1. Shorts mean showing my pasty legs that have been in hiding since winter. I'm not ashamed to say that I clung to jeans and capris in the spring because it was still acceptable weather-wise. 2. Flip flops mean I have to make sure my pedicure is fresh and cute (maintenance is such a hassle). 3. Sunglasses? Can't wear them unless I wanna look cute but be blind. That's right I am one of the few people who still prefers wearing prescription glasses to poking myself in each eye twice a day for contacts sake. Don't get me wrong I appreciate contacts and don't mind them...its willingly putting my finger in my eyeball that has me uncomfortable. 4. Bold prints? Love them....on other people. on me and my body type I have to be careful how I wear prints otherwise I will end up looking like a table at a flea market! I know many women have similar love hate relationships with one, if not all, of the fashions I've mentioned. But have no fear: this is not a complaining blog but a fashion blog. Therefore, this post is more of a how-to-wear some of those more questionable clothing articles with confidence. So here goes!
This look was put together with the summer music scene in mind. Whether Coachella is your thing or smaller local concerts in your city, this is a solid outfit that can be recreated on a low budget. To start with, who doesn't have a basic, solid colored tank top? The one featured here is a whopping $69, but, let's be honest, every woman I know has a tank in every color in her closet probably from Walmart, Target or some other mega-shopping center! And why shouldn't we?! You can dress tanks up or down in the summer and they transform easily for various occasions- from the beach to the office! But that's a post for a different time. Pairing the navy blue top with a printed short ($44 here) for some flair. For those of us who have forgone looking cute in those tiny denim shorts with rips and tears that designers put on models in all of their summer campaigns, there is a comfortable alternative: loose and/or high waisted shorts! Denim shorts don't breathe well and can feel restricting even if they fit well (especially when its so hot). Do yourself a favor and get loose shorts (which happen to be on trend right now). The looseness of the short only compliments your legs, no matter what shape they are in. high waisted shorts in a bold pattern can also hide a multitude of flaws in the tummy region. The pattern will camouflage the tummy and, depending on the material, there are some high waisted shorts that are made to cinch you in a bit. Also, the high waist tends to fool the eye into thinking that your legs look longer than they are. (Oh us girls and our myraid of tricks!)
For this look I've added the cream, crocheted cardigan for a touch of retro femininity ($29-hey I can actually afford this!) Perfect for many summer occasions, but helps tie in the look. For the bling, which I always try to incorporate, a simple long strand peace sign necklace ($1,200 from Tiffany Co) will do the trick...or you know something us normal people can afford without an armed guard watching our every move! I've always liked keeping the jewelry to a minimum, especially in the summer. Its hot....there's no need to wear rings, bracelets, necklaces and the like all at once. You know my fashion motto: Keep It Simple Stupid! One not-so-statement piece is enough. Besides, won't you have sunglasses as an added accessory anyway? The retro 60s styled ones here are a nice touch to this hippie inspired outfit (not sure how much the sunglasses cost, but they are Prada so assume the worse!! And then there were the SHOES! The ones in the set are $98, but this style of the thong sandal with a covered back is everywhere right now. So finding them at a considerably cheaper price shouldn't be too hard. We can't forget the bag. Heavens forbid!! This ($113) simple drawstring bag is perfect if you're going to an all day festival or just going on a casual outing. Hands free, which I love, a bit of a floral pattern and the navy blue color with brown trim tie both the tank top, shorts and shoes together effortlessly. So there you have it. Love it? Hate it? Too much for summer? Too little for concerts? Let me know. I love getting feedback. And until next time......
