Lovely Lattice

{Isaac Mizrahi for Target top, Forever 21 skirt, Michael Kors watch, and Madewell oxfords}

When it comes to basic pieces, changes in the little details, like adding lattice-style cutouts to the sleeves on this Isaac Mizrahi top, are what make them special. By pairing this festive skirt with a navy blouse instead of a more neutral tone, it brings the outfit to more of an everyday summer style instead of 4th of July.

Graphic Static

{Urban top, Zara skirt, Topshop necklace, Michael Kors watch, and Steve Madden shoes}

There is something that always interests me about graphic abstract things. The way that I don't know exactly what the pictures are and the fact that they look like graphic drawings of television static are part of why it is going to be one of my favorite new pieces to easily switch up for day to night pieces. When paired here with a navy skirt and a necklace that looks like shards of electricity and light, it has just the right amount of funky elements while still looking polished and not going overboard.

Uniform

{GAP T-shirt, H&M skirt, Madewell oxfords, Francesca's necklace, and Michael Kors watch}

In high school, where a uniform was instilled, my weekly wardrobe was made up of polos, oxfords, and plenty of plaid and khaki skirts. Though the days of an assigned wardrobe are over, I still enjoy having a few outfits that I consider to be a go-to, easy to put together and wear look. With a classic skirt in an easy shape and color paired with a striped T-shirt, there is just enough interest in this otherwise basic look when paired with a great beaded necklace and watch.

Basic & Brocade

{Topshop T-shirt and shorts, Steve Madden wedges, and Michael Kors}

I am usually not a shorts person. I always feel that they look weird on my legs and un-finished when I wear them. However, when they lean towards the dressier side, they are usually more in my liking. When I saw this brocade pair, the gold and sea foam color create the perfect combination and in getting them a size larger, have that relaxed fit that adds comfort, too. Since they are such as statement style, I paired them with a nubby basic T-shirt, gold accessories to match, and some fun chunky wedges so that it wasn't too dainty and gold.

Dress Up

{Sky Collar Dress}

I always love when something simple and classic is updated with a new and modern twist. This dress by Sister Jane is every bit that lovely LWD but is updated by involving the popular contrasting collar addition in an amazing sort of outer-space like print. I even love how the dainty flower cutouts on the dress seem to almost juxtapose with the collar. This dress seems to be perfect for that feminine girl that is every bit the fan of quirks and whimsy, as well. 

Have an amazing weekend, everyone.

Summer Styles

I have been thinking a lot about what I think can really go into creating a fun summer look. When it comes to creating multiple outfits from certain individual items, these are some of the components that I feel make great summer staple starters. How's that for alliteration?

Denim Button Down: If you haven't seen them around enough lately, they really seem as if they are the new classic white oxford. With their neutral-like denim and easy to wear vibe, they work with anything from a floral skirt to a pair of silky trousers.

Sequin Tap Shorts: While I haven't managed to actually take a pair of these out for a test run, I have been eyeing them for quite some time, now. They are great to match with everything from a plain white T-shirt and colorful flats to a lightweight blouse and heels for a night out. Even if you wear minimal jewelry, or none at all, they manage to make a statement all their own.

Neutral Wedges: These should be in every girls' closet. A great shoe to wear almost all year round, they are that perfect shoe to wear when you want to wear heels without looking like you are trying too hard. For summer, by finding a pair in a shade that is similar to your skin tone, it can create an illusion of an extended leg. Who doesn't want to look just a little taller? Am I right?

Fun Jewelry: Finally, an abundance of different styles of jewelry is essential to creating that finishing touch to any outfit. Whether it be a small ring, crazy stack of bangles, or a combination of various layered necklaces, jewelry is a way to easily have the ability to change how an outfit looks and feels.

What are some of your current favorite summer styles? I'd love to hear.

(Milk) Maid in Manhattan

{O by Organic dress, Topshop necklace, Michael Kors watch, and Guess? shoes}

I have always been quite the fan of the milkmaid braid that creates a sort of headband or crown of braids across the top of the head. However, they appeared to be difficult to execute, and even harder to stay put for a busy day of running around. Today, though, they were the perfect pairing to a sweet polka dotted dress that I amped up with a triangle decorated necklace in bright traffic cone orange. They were easier than I expected, lasted the whole day, and managed to provide a fun alternative to a bun to sweep the hair away from my neck.

Have you ever tried to do the Milkmaid Braids? Here are some of my favorite ones: 1, 2, and 3