i still think fashion matters, and i still think looking our best is important. so far this summer, i’ve been looking for an excuse to wear a blazer. so much so, i wrote a post on how to wear a blazer this summer. amazingly enough, Athens’ weather has been temperate this summer: we’ve only broken the 90s a few times. so, i’ve been able to get away with reaching for a blazer, and i’ll take it. with that in mind, i want to build on Sunday’s post on denim and show you how i elevate a simple denim skirt for a classic, chic look. we’re going to pair a denim pencil skirt with a classic linen blazer.
how to elevate a denim skirt
today, i’m pairing a denim pencil skirt from Nordstrom with a classic linen blazer from Talbots. last week, i showed you how to put together a fresh preppy look with a pinstripe blazer with skinny jeans. a very similar idea today: the clean lines from the pencil skirt are accentuated by those of the blazer. i’ve chosen a white one, but you could imagine giving the outfit a bit of a color pop by choosing a pink or blue one.
i’m loving espadrilles this year. i’ve put together a wide selection here, here, here, and here. they’re such a flexible sandal and can be paired with pants, shorts, or a skirt to give you an instantly chic look.
blazer | pencil skirt | cami | similar tank | espadrille | espadrille 2 | espadrille 3 | espadrille 4 | crossbody bag | hobo bag
a classic linen blazer
i’ve been all about blazers this summer. if it’s too hot where you are to pull one into your outfit, i understand. but they’re a perfect layering piece for milder climates or for the days you’re bouncing inside and out. i’m loving Talbots’ classic linen blazer this year: you don’t have to twist my arm to wear linen. but don’t forget to check out this classic pinstripe blazer if you’re looking for something with more visual interest.
blazer | pencil skirt | cami | similar tank | espadrille | espadrille 2 | espadrille 3 | espadrille 4 | crossbody bag | hobo bag
a denim pencil skirt
as i said Sunday, a denim skirt is a staple any woman should have in their closet. just like jeans, they’re so flexible and can be paired with anything to get literally any look. today, i’ve chosen to elevate a denim skirt into a more classic look, but if you want to go totally casual, just like jeans, you can do so easily.
blazer | pencil skirt | cami | similar tank | espadrille | espadrille 2 | espadrille 3 | espadrille 4 | crossbody bag | hobo bag
my regulars know that when summer roles around, i don’t necessarily wear jeans as much as i would the rest of the year. but that doesn’t mean i won’t wear denim this time of year. there are so many good options, some of which i talked about recently in my latest YouTube video. i wanted to deep dive a bit more on that topic, so today we’re talking how to wear denim this summer. i’ve got 4 denim items that every woman should have in their closet.
how to wear a denim dress
i’m keeping it casual with a denim shirtdress and suede booties. the dress came with a self-tie sash that i swapped for one of my favorites – a classic braided belt. these suede booties are seeing a lot of action lately. they’re a great transition item that’s helping to ease my wardrobe from summer to fall. the mid-heel height is perfectly comfortable, and the gold grommets add just enough detail to give them some oomph.
how to wear denim shorts
today it’s all about how to wear jean shorts. the weather bounced all over the place this past weekend. showers. no showers. cloud coverage. full sun. a pair of denim shorts is a no brainer on any given summer day. that goes for a straw hat too. but when the clouds cover the sun, it’s fun to add a lightweight linen sweater (sold out similar here) into the mix. what i particularly like about this sweater besides the fact its organic linen is the color. this v-neck sweater will transition nicely from summer to fall.
how to wear denim skirt
today’s ootd starts with a denim skirt that’s hung in my closet for years. snap shell buttons and flap pockets. the reviews suggest to size up with this shirt, but it’s meant to be a tailored fit, so i stuck to my regular size. my new leopard flats are back in action. since i’m doubling down on denim, then leopard shoes and belt will be twice as nice.
how to wear a denim shirt
today’s ootd starts with cropped black jeans. if you’re not quite ready for long sleeves a short sleeve chambray shirt is an excellent substitute without changing the color scheme. leopard flats seemed like the perfect footwear choice. and leopard print is on-trend and seen everywhere this fall. if the first thought that leaps to mind is peggy bundy when it comes to this wild pattern leopard shoes or a belt are two ways to integrate this trend into your wardrobe without going over the top. sometimes, baby steps are all that’s needed. accessories are an easy way to board the trend train if you’re ever in doubt. options, ladies, there’s always lots of options when it comes to fashion.
are you ready for summer? with all that’s been going on in the world, it’s easy to forget it’s right around the corner. spring came and went, much of which was spent under quarantine. it’s easy to lose sight of—easy to forget—simple constants and milestones like the passing of seasons. it’s unclear what this summer will look like. although some of the country is slowly beginning to reopen, it’s hard to imagine this summer will be filled with, say travel like years past. and that’s going to take some getting used to, no doubt. but as we’ve said on the blog: we have to look upwards first and forward second. in the spirit of positivity, today we’re going to herald in summer in only the way we can over here on the blog: we’re going to run through our top 4 summer wardrobe essentials that will serve you well June, July and August.
jumpsuit
there’s always a lively discussion when it comes to jumpsuits. some women can’t be bothered with them. but i’m a fan. just like a dress, they are one and done. and they’re perfect for those hot summer temps that are on the horizon. jumpsuits look fabulous with a blazer. but they can fly solo just as well, which is why a jumpsuit makes the 5 summer wardrobe essentials list.
similar wrap top jumpsuit | similar stripe jumpsuit | similar wide leg jumpsuit
white pants
whether it’s white denim, white chinos, or white straight leg trousers white is more than all right all summer long. white pants are crisp, and clean, and cool.
white denim | white trousers | white chinos
summer sandal
get your tootsies summer ready with a pedicure ‘cuz it’s time to slip into a pair of summer sandals.
similar metallic block heel | similar jack rogers | similar strappy sandal | metallic wavy sandals
summer dress
summer days and summer nights call for a summer dress. let’s make sure our wardrobe has more than a few on hand. maxis are perfect for the evening. sundresses for beach chic vibes. and let’s not forget a shirtdress for lunch with the girls.
similar black dress | similar shirtdress | similar striped dress | similar white dress
although the country is slowly starting to open back up, we’re still spending a lot, if not the majority of our time at home. and there’s nothing wrong with wearing blue jeans, tees, and sneakers. believe me; i’m reaching for that combination a lot more these days. last week, we revisited jeans after months of athleisure wear. today, we’re going to build on that post and talk five ways to elevate your blue jeans into a timeless and classic look. we’re gonna start with my base outfit below and build five new ones from it by addition, subtraction, and slight modification.
girlfriend jeans | shoes | similar shoes | similar tee | sweatshirt
outfit 1
add a blazer, leopard shoes & belt
in our first look, we’ve kept my original jeans but built the outfit around the mighty blazer. a blazer will elevate any look, and when you add the leopard pattern with these (similar) shoes and belt, you’ve got a timeless classic.
blouse | blazer | similar jeans | similar shoes | belt
outfit 2
add accessories
for our second look, we’ve kept the blouse but swapped out the jeans for skinny ones. the whole idea here, though, is to add accessories. a belt can be an attention grabber and add life to any pair of jeans. swap out your daily jewelry for something a little more eye-catching. and don’t forget to add a color pop by using a sweater as an accessory.
blouse | jeans | similar shoes | sweater
outfit 3
long-over-lean
for our third look, let’s keep the skinny jeans but add a poplin popover for that classic long-over-lean look. such a simple and clean look, but remarkably comfortable as well. one of my favorites. (and you didn’t think i’d forget that pop of color. how about these (similar) shoes?)
poplin popover | jeans | similar shoes
outfit 4
with a chunky cardigan
for our fourth outfit, we’ve kept our base but simply added a chunky (similar) cardigan. talk about reusability. it looks like we’ve got a few more days of cooler weather here in Athens, and i’ve definitely reached for this cardigan more than once. super comfy without loosing that timeless classic look.
jeans | poplin popover | similar cardigan | similar shoes
outfit 5
add a pop of color
and finally, don’t forget about colored jeans. whether you’re going with black, white, red, or some other color entirely, the fashion possibilities they afford us are endless. i’ve stuck with a neutral today: gray jeans. and i’ve built the entire outfit around the safari jacket—one of my personal favorites.
jeans | safari jacket | tank | shoes
thanks for joining us, ladies. i hope today’s post gives you some inspiration on how to take your jeans and restyle them in a way that gives you that timeless classic look we’re always striving for over here on the blog. if you’re looking for more inspiration or want to see how these outfits look in 3D, be sure to check out our new YouTube video.
it’s Thursday, which means another trip to the archives. we’ve been doing that regularly over here on the blog: last week, we talked about how to wear shorts, and the week before was how to wear wide leg pants. it’s May now—the transition month from spring to summer. depending on the day and the weather, that means that there are a lot of fashion options. so today, we’re gonna talk how to wear a skirt. i’ve got three skirts and three outfit ideas that’ll work throughout the month. enjoy!
white denim skirt
today, i chose a classic color combo – the mighty black and white that’s always right any time of year. but i think it looks particularly crisp and clean for summer. and there’s nothing quite like a crisp cotton shirt. if you ever wonder how to jazz up a white shirt blazers and cardigans add that little extra something. but today i reached for a knit shell to add pizazz to an otherwise ho-hum outfit. knit shells are a closet staple that looks great tucked underneath blazers. but they can shine on their own when worn as a vest. who doesn’t want versatility when it comes to their wardrobe?
similar skirt | shirt | similar shell | similar shoes
patterned skirt
if it’s summer then it’s time to bring out the bold patterns like a lemon print skirt. summer style is always about casual ease. those long summer days demand it. it’s time to kick back and relax at a pool party, beach getaway, or al fresco dining. don’t you just love a warm summer breeze?
besides a cute summer skirt, another summer favorite is a crisp white blouse. many of you know i’m always on the hunt for the perfect one. while this cotton eyelet shirt might not be “the one” it had to come home with me nonetheless. don’t you just love the contrast between a feminine fabric with a menswear-inspired button-down? it’s the ying and yang of style. one of my favorite style tricks is to add a masculine item to a feminine look. it keeps the outfit balanced.
similar skirt | similar blouse | similar shoes
a-line skirt
if it’s monday then we should be singing the blues. unless you’re wearing black. like today’s ootd which features a simple black and white striped tee, a-line skirt and the cutest pair of pointy-toed flats i’ve seen in a good long while. every season i develop a style crush with a pair of shoes. be warned! these slingbacks will be on style repeat all summer long.
similar skirt | similar tee | similar shoes
we’ve headed towards a cool spell in Athens. this gives me the opportunity to wear, wait for it: jeans. seems weird to say that, but when was the last time you threw on a pair of jeans over the past few months? with so many, if not all of us at home full time, there’s not the same incentive to throw on a pair of, say, skinny jeans. i get it. i was going through some of our more recent posts over here on the blog, and we’ve featured wide leg pants, shorts, and even a little black dress. but not a lot of denim. many of you have reached out to me over the past few weeks and have acknowledged that you’re ready for the transitioning from athleisure wear to jeans. well, so am i.
transitioning from athleisure wear to jeans
we’re all about timeless, classic style on the blog. and we feature denim heavily. in fact, jeans made my top 10 classic essentials that transition to spring. today, i’ve got on a pair of high waist, ankle cut skinny jeans (low, medium, high). and you know what? i’m loving them. they’re doing a couple of things for me today. first, they’re keeping me honest. under quarantine, maintaining our normal routines has become difficult, if not impossible. i’ve made it a point to stay healthy by walking, but as many of you know, i underwent knee surgery recently, making even that challenging. jeans are less forgiving than athleisure wear, for sure. so it’s nice to get that gut check every once in while (pun intended).
also, putting on a pair of jeans gives an indication on how my knee is doing. my recovery has been going well, but there is still some swelling in my knee. jeans show me clearly how much farther i have to go. and that’s not a bad thing: it serves as motivation to keep pushing during my PT sessions. and let me tell you PT is the most important step in the recovery process.
similar jacket | similar jacket 2 | similar jacket 3 | similar jacket 4 | similar jacket 5 | similar jacket 6 | shoes | bag | saint james tee | similar tee | similar tee 2
jeans low | jeans medium | jeans high
original Breton tee
i love, love, love classic Breton striped tees: so iconic, and such a staple. if you don’t own one, i highly recommend it. did you know that the striped tee started life in the French Navy in 1858? the original sailor tee sported 21 stripes, one for each of Napolean’s victories. the distinctive pattern of stripes made it easier to spot a sailor in the sea if by chance he fell overboard. at the turn of the twentieth century, on a visit to the French Riviera Coco Chanel spied the tee on a navy seaman and introduced the Breton tee with her 1917 nautical collection. this look was a breakaway from the heavily corseted fashion popular at the time. Coco originally paired the tee with flared trousers and a trend began. women in trousers? striped tees? separates? it seems so matter-of-fact these days, but waaaay back then, it took one brave woman to change fashion forever.
similar jacket | similar jacket 2 | similar jacket 3 | similar jacket 4 | similar jacket 5 | similar jacket 6 | shoes | bag | saint james tee | similar tee | similar tee 2
jeans low | jeans medium | jeans high
cap-toe slingbacks
and finally, i’m featuring a pair of cap-toe slingbacks. they’re a classic shoe. Chanel introduced them almost 100 years ago, and when in doubt on what pair of shoes to wear on any given day, i reach for a pair. they act as a neutral and will complement virtually any outfit you put together. love.
similar jacket | similar jacket 2 | similar jacket 3 | similar jacket 4 | similar jacket 5 | similar jacket 6 | shoes | bag | saint james tee | similar tee | similar tee 2
jeans low | jeans medium | jeans high
over the years, i’ve spent a lot of time writing about how to wear white denim. it’s one of my favorite pieces in my closet, and one in which i’m not afraid to break all the rules with. yup. you guessed it: i wear white jeans year round. guilty as charged. and if you’re a fashion rule-breaker like me, then today’s post is for you. we’re going to walk through 5 ways to wear white denim. i’ve even got an accompanying YouTube video for you, so make sure to check that out.
slim ankle | wide leg | flare | straight
with a jean jacket
jean jacket is something we most likely have in our closet. and no matter the color or fit of that jacket, it will always work with white denim. want to mix things up? throws a patterned shirt underneath. want a pop of color? how about a pair of red shoes. just have fun.
low comparable | medium comparable | high comparable
with a white tee & duster
when the temps start to get mild, i love to have a monochromatic outfit. white-on-white is very elongating and looks good on all of us. pro tip: add a brown belt to break up the white—just a bit.
low comparable | medium comparable | high comparable
with a safari jacket
next up is the classic safari/utility jacket. when i’m wearing white denim, i love to have a brown accent piece. and there’s nothing better—nothing more classic—than a safari jacket. but don’t think you have to stick with brown. this style will work with any muted color. an olive utility jacket would go just as great with a pair of white jeans.
low comparable | medium comparable | high comparable
with a black moto jacket
black moto jackets never go out of style. in fact, they made my top 10 classic items that transition well to spring. a black moto jacket is featured here again in this classic look. i mean, can you really go wrong with this pairing?
low comparable | medium comparable | high comparable
with gingham
rounding out the list today is a gingham shirt. such a classic. so preppy. one of my favorites. just like many of the above looks, i’ve brought in a brown belt as a cute little accent piece. notice the block-heeled sandals i’m wearing. they give this outfit just a bit more sophisticated elegance than it normally would have. love.
low comparable | medium comparable | high comparable
i hope you had a wonderful and restful Easter! did you get a chance to connect with those that you love? did you make brunch? what did you make? (hopefully you had a chance try our baked eggs and popovers!) now that i’m spending so much time at home, it’s amazing how the little things i used to take for granted have become, well, highlights of my day. take my daily trip to the mailbox. simple and totally forgettable a few months ago. now, it’s something i look forward to. not only is it a forcing function to get up and out of my house, but it often leads to an impromptu walk around the neighborhood. and that’s really perfect, because we’ve got a few more weeks of absolute perfect weather here in Athens. with that in mind, i thought we’d do a fun OOTD: how to wear a graphic tee.
the simple things in life
if you caught my 10 classic essentials that transition to spring yesterday, you’ll know that the classic tee made my list. and what’s more fun in spring and summer than a graphic tee? i would say that the graphic tee made a come back a decade ago, but that’s not really true: they’ve never really went away. i’ve featuring a fun California-themed shirt from J.Crew in honor of my days past, but the best thing about graphic tees, there’s one out there just for you; and just for the mood you’re in.
graphic tee | sweater | jeans | belt | similar sandal | similar sandal 2 | bracelet | earrings
how to wear a graphic tee
graphic tees go with anything, literally. i’ve paired mine today with a pair of girlfriend jeans and an equally fun sweater also from J.Crew. it’s transition weather here, so layering is important. but depending on where you are, you may go sans sweater and, say, a pair of ankle jeans. or bootcut. or shorts. or whatever really. in a moment when fun can be hard to come by, remember, it’s the little things in life. and that’s what a good graphic tee is really.
graphic tee | sweater | jeans | belt | similar sandal | similar sandal 2 | bracelet | earrings
a sweater for spring
it’s sweater weather—my favorite. so many fun options this year. i’m featuring a cardigan with muted pastels, and it contrasts nicely with the my tee. we’ve featured many cardigans on the blog over the years. dress them up; dress them down; they’re just so flexible. and this one is putting a smile on my face today. i hope it is yours too.
graphic tee | sweater | jeans | belt | similar sandal | similar sandal 2 | bracelet | earrings
happy Easter from our family to yours! it’s a holy weekend for many of us of different faiths, and this year, we cannot celebrate in the way in which we traditionally do. there’s a sadness in that, but that does not mean we cannot celebrate. true celebration begins with an inward thankfulness that itself leads to a sort of peacefulness that radiates outwards. and that’s what we need right now: a sustaining peace throughout this storm.
10 classic essentials that transition to spring
today, i’m refreshing a post we published earlier this year. it’s relevant for spring, but in addition, we cut a new YouTube video to accompany it. so make sure to watch.
we are going to revisit the timeless classics: the wardrobe staples everyone needs in their closet. i cannot stress enough how important it is to have at least one of each of these items because the ability to pull together a classic, chic, on point outfit is priceless. in addition to wardrobe items, i’ve included a few classic accessories as well. sometimes, it’s the perfect accessory that can really set off your outfit: think pearls, a leather handbag or a fabulous pair of sunglasses! i’m going to show you how to build a timeless wardrobe, and to that end, i’ve included past posts for you see how i have styled each of these items over the years.
little black dress
it’s important to always have a little black dress in your closet. the go-to, always appropriate LBD that you can reliably reach for when you need a dress for date night. i think it’s good to have at least two LBDs—one that is fun and flirty, and one that is a little more conservative. a conservative style will get a lot of use for day to day as it can pinch hit for the office, church, or any kind of meeting when a more reserved style is appropriate.
low comparable | mid comparable | high comparable
pearl necklace
pearls are absolutely my favorite go-to jewelry. they add instant panache no matter if you’re pairing them with a casual denim outfit or an LBD. i love to mix them with jeans and a blazer. the classically chic style of pearls make them an easy choice for anyone, since they go with every style, anytime. even if you don’t normally wear jewelry, you can always try a pearl necklace and rest assured, they look great on you!
low comparable | mid comparable | high comparable
white blouse
this one is an obvious choice for a timeless classic. much like pearls, you can elevate any outfit by wearing a crisp white button up – but this is also true for a soft silk white blouse. it’s also true for more trendy styles, like collarless tuxedo shirts, or tie-waist kimono styles. while some styles and cuts will fade in and out of fashion, the idea of a classic white blouse keeps this classic relevant.
low comparable | mid comparable | high comparable
leather handbag
a leather handbag is a timeless classic because if you go for a well-made classic design, like a satchel or tote, and if you choose a color that is versatile with items in your closet you will definitely get your money’s worth in use and it will last for years to come. a well made leather bag is something worth spending a bit more on, if you can. with brands like Everlane, you can get a quality, beautiful bag without spending your whole paycheck!
low comparable | mid comparable | high comparable
ballet flats
like many of the items in this list, ballet flats can go from casual to dressy with ease. and like the leather handbag, it’s worth searching out a well-made pair in a neutral color. you will reach for them everytime you can’t decide on what shoes to wear with those wide-leg jeans, or when you know you’ll be on your feet all day at the office. i highly recommend Everlane’s Day Glove ballet flat, they are affordable, well made and very comfortable.
low comparable | mid comparable | high comparable
sunglasses
sunglasses have been an iconic fashion staple for ages. sunglasses are often a very personal expression of style because you wear them on your face. many factors play into how we choose sunglasses: face shape is probably the biggest factor and mostly we tend to stick with sunglass styles that work best with our face shape. but this is where you can really have some fun! there are certainly sunglass fads, but for the most part, classic styles remain so. think: aviators, oversized, or Wayfarer styles. within these iconic style groups there are myriad variations and designs that make them more or less trendy. i recommend having multiple pairs, so you can choose for your mood!
low comparable | mid comparable | high comparable
blazer
if you have followed me for any length of time you know i regularly sing the praises of the mighty blazer. my personal style is decidedly preppy and the blazer is the cornerstone of preppy style. having a few blazers in your closet is not excessive at all! a well-fitting, well-made black blazer will see you through office outfits, date night outfits, over jeans for brunch – trust me you cannot go wrong with a black blazer. but consider a tweed blazer for fall and winter when you need an extra layer. a tweed blazer over jeans and a sweater is a picture perfect outfit for any day of the week. and what about summer? yes, indeed – a lightweight linen blazer for summer is a dream! check out my blazer blow out post to see how i love to style the mighty blazer.
low comparable | mid comparable | high comparable
black leather jacket
maybe you stray from a black leather jacket because you don’t think a motorcycle jacket is your style. well, let me tell you that black leather jackets come in all sorts of styles! from the typical motorcycle jacket with zippers and pockets, to the more streamlined cafe racer style, to bomber styles, to blazers! whatever style best suits you and your wardrobe, i bet you can find a black leather jacket.
low comparable | mid comparable | high comparable
tees
tee shirts don’t have to be relegated to weekend or bedtime wear. tee shirts are a beloved staple and deserve a spot in your regular outfit rotations. i love to wear a graphic tee with a pencil skirt. or under a blazer with pants or jeans. you can elevate your tee shirt with what you pair it with: tweed blazer and pearls, skirt and heels…suddenly your humble tee shirt is the perfect go-to. or reverse it, sometimes a more “over the top” item, like a sequined skirt, can be toned down with a tee shirt.
low comparable | mid comparable | high comparable
jeans
you all know i am true blue jean mama. i am more likely to be found in blue jeans on any given day than most other items from my closet, which is why i have a steady rotation of styles. i have classic straight leg and boot cut styles as well as the new classics: skinny, wide leg, cropped and flare. well made, well-cared for jeans can last for many years, so even if a particular style has fallen flat one season, it will definitely come back around. so if you have the space for it, store them and wait until they make their way back to the top of the heap. read my ultimate denim guide for tips on fit and styles.
boot cut | wide leg | ankle | boyfriend | skinny
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