OUTFITS BY SEASON Archives - The Well Dressed Life

Pinterest in Real Life: Making Shorts an Outfit

May 28, 2021May 28, 2021 by Megan Kristel

I always say, to make the simplest outfit stand out you have to pay attention to details. Today’s Pinterest in Real Life is an example of how mixing basics with a few trend-focused items can create something unique, fresh and modern.

I am SO READY for a fun and busy summer. Normalcy is undoubtedly something to celebrate, so I’m all about making everyday outfits feel special.

Our inspiration outfit is just that, an ideal everyday outfit for any summer activity, like a girl’s trip to a winery or a day of playing tourist.

Pinterest in Real Life

Cambray Shorts, $49.50 | Long Sleeve Breton, $40 | Felt Hat, $58 | Rock Stud Flat Sandals, $49 | Straw Tote, $88

Let’s start with the chambray shorts. I like these as a denim alternative when you want something light and polished. Our model has gorgeous legs, so the length of her shorts is perfect. For a similar look, I’m showing a pair with a 3″ inseam from J. Crew Factory on sale for under $25. These. Are. Short. So wear them if you want to show off your steams.

Other, longer options include this high-waisted pair from Old Navy for only $15 in all sizes, or for a fuller cut, these Cargo Chambray shorts from Talbots are under $65 and also come in all sizes.

The inspiration shorts also feature an elastic, gathered waistband. Again, she looks great in them, but when I try a wear something like this, I feel like I’m in a diaper. If you have the same issue, wear traditional flat-front shorts.

Next, you know a striped shirt is a staple in my wardrobe and on my list of must-haves every season. My favorite is from Boden for $40. Pairing a 3/4 or long sleeve top with shorts makes the look more finished and polished. You can do a full or half tuck with your top, depending on what makes you feel most comfortable.

Finally, the accessories are easy but impactful. After featuring hats in Tuesday’s post, I wanted to show you how to wear one in a regular outfit. I mean, how cute is it here? For this look, I went with a mid-size brim option from Madewell for under $50. For all my other picks, you can see our Must-Have Piece post here.

Then, grab any straw bag you already own; the one above is also from J.Crew Factory for under $70.

What I think takes this look from good to great are these studded sandals. I’m not sure which ones our inspiration outfit features, but Steve Madden has an affordable pair on sale at Macy’s. These look great with anything from shorts to maxi dresses. You’ll wear them all summer.

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Our Style Content is Inspired by Our Readers

Our readership inspires all of our posts and is not sponsored or paid for by brands or retailers.

Recommendations are based on my experience as a personal stylist and wardrobe consultant for over a decade. I worked with busy, down-to-earth women who wanted to look chic and feel confident but were often confused by so much of retail.

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A Simple Top for Back to Work

May 26, 2021May 26, 2021 by Megan Kristel

Whether you’re headed back or already in the office, I’m sure the one glaring hole in your wardrobe is tops for work. They have been tough to find this season, so when I stumbled on these under $50 tops from Nordstrom, I knew I had to share them.

You can pick them up in an array of colors and patterns in XS-XL. Consider them if you bought any of our reader favorite, best-selling pants from the past few weeks, including the Old Navy High Waisted Linen Cullotes, the Nordstrom Stretch Cotton Ankle Pants, or even tucked into the Athleta Skyline Pant.

Cap Sleeve Blouse, $49

Of course, you can also wear these with your favorite jeans in dark, light, and white, or a pair of shorts.
The neckline is ideal for layered necklaces or an oversized pair of earrings.

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Our readership inspires all of our posts and is not sponsored or paid for by brands or retailers.

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How to Wear Tan Pants to Work Two Ways

April 14, 2021 by Megan Kristel

Whether you’re back to the office full time, part time, or still working remotely, many of us are feeling the need with the change of season to start dressing again. At least in something other than leggings.

As an alternative to our go-to jeans or black bottoms, a classic pair of tan pants will give you some variety in your work clothes.

Today, we’ll show you how to make them feel modern, and use some of the more popular pieces we’ve featured over the last few weeks to create a couple of outfits.

First, let’s talk about the pants.

Banana Republic Sloan Pant

Sloan Pants, $98

I’m featuring the Sloan Pant from Banana Republic. It’s a favorite cut amongst readers, but this particular pant runs smaller than usual so be sure to size up. You can currently take 40% off the regular price, and they are available in regular and petite sizes from 0 – 20.

If Talbot’s fits you better, they have many options too. Like their Stretch Cotton Chinos, or their Newport Pants in Canyon. Both are available in all sizes.

No matter what you go with, look for something tailored, with great fit. Otherwise, they wrinkle and look sloppy.

Choose a darker beige or tan. You don’t want to use a light khaki color, it will make the bottoms feel like utility pants and that won’t work with the polished pieces we’re working with.

With a Blazer

White Blazer, $128 | V-Neck Tank Top, $98 | Slingbacks, $80 |Stud Earrings, $32 |Shoulder Bag, $98

If you picked up the white blazer we featured from Express, you could wear it like this with a simple v-neck top layered underneath. I’m using this one from Nic + Zoe. It’s a fantastic staple you can wear year-round as a layer or stand-alone.

Don’t want to do a blazer? Swap it out for a simple long white cardigan.

For shoes, we’re going with the Kate Spade slingbacks on sale at Off Fifth. Sizes are getting limited. If you already picked these up, know you can wear them in black, white, brown, or tan. Use them like a neutral to add a touch of visual interest.

Then, I’m the shoulder bag from our Bloomindale’s Sale roundup (under $100) adds a bit of glamour, along with these gorgeous Lilly Pulitzer stud earrings for only $32.

Polished Casual

Tie Hem Shirt, $55 | Gemstone Pendant Necklace, $35 |Flats, $268 |Canvas Tote, $275

Using tailored basics can create a casual and polished look for the office (or anywhere!). Here, I’m using the Tie Hem Shirt from our Bloomingdale’s line up. This cut is nice if you are petite or short waisted. Or, you could use the French Blue Stripe Button Down many of us have from Amazon.

To fill in the neckline, I went with the Gorjana Gemstone Pendant from yesterday’s post. It’s on sale for only $35.

These tan flats from Tory Burch are soft, comfortable and super chic. Worth the investment for sure.

Finally, I adore this classic canvas tote from Ralph Lauren.

Our Style Content is Inspired by Our Readers

Our readership inspires all of our posts and is not sponsored or paid for by brands or retailers.

Some links are affiliate links, which means if you purchase via our site, we receive a small commission.

Learn about our mission to help women look and feel their very best, every day, here.

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How to Style Print Pants for Day and Night

April 8, 2021 by Megan Kristel

If you feel like maybe you’re in a style rut, it might be time to shake things up a bit.

Nothing too drastic, but putting your toe outside your style comfort zone can kick start your enthusiasm for the new season and open your eyes to even more fashion possibilities.

Plus, I bet you get a ton of compliments, and that never hurts:)

Over the next few weeks, we’ll feature lots of outfit inspiration designed to help you incorporate a new trend or jazz up your basics to show you how to add the “twist” in the classic-with-a-twist style we love around here.

And we’ll do that by featuring new items while mixing them with other popular items recently featured on the blog, so you can get the most out of your purchases.

Today, we’re starting with how to wear a pair of print pants.

Pants, $79.50

Print bottoms have been around forever. What makes them a trend, and can therefore date them, is the pattern. To keep them leaning classic choose a subtle print. (Of course, if you love a big, bold print, go for it! They may just be limited in how long you’ll want to wear them.)

For this post, I’m using these Ann Taylor crop pants in what they are calling an animal print. It’s more of an abstract version of one, using neutral colors, which I like more than a traditional print. The base color is called “Night Sky.”

The pants are available in a range of sizes, from 00 – 18, in regular and petite with a curvy cut option.

Below, I’m showing two ways to wear them, one for day, one for night, using some of our past reader favorites for the season.

Sporty Daytime

Sweater, $80 | Crossbody Bag, $129 | Earrings, $45 | Slip-On Sneaker, $95

Anytime you work with a pattern, the easiest way to make it work in an outfit is to pull out one color and work with it. Here, because the weather is warming up, I’m using white. It instantly makes the look feel fresh.

Banana Republic makes a fantastic knit, like this crewneck lightweight sweater, available in XXS – XXL in regular and petite.

To keep it sporty, I used white slip-on sneakers from Allbirds. These are great, everyday sneakers for under $100. You can walk all day in them, run errands, travel, visit the grandkids, etc. There are many color options; I prefer the white, grey, and beige.

Then, since we’re wearing this on a busy day, I used this tan crossbody from Nordstrom. I featured it in our What to Buy at Nordstrom post last month and have received so many notes from readers who are enjoying it. I have three kids and a non-stop schedule, so a stylish crossbody is one of my go-to’s this time of year.

Finally, I discovered Gorjana, a fantastic affordable jewelry brand, last year. If you want a few jewelry pieces that look different but still fall under the classic category, give them a try. I picked these under $50 earrings for this look because they are small enough for a casual day but mimic the pants’ print, tying everything together.

Night Out

Earrings, $32 | White Blazer, $128 |Camisole, $68 |Woven Clutch, $58 | Heels, $65

Oh, how I love heels and blazers!

Here, I used the white blazer we featured from Express in yesterday’s post and layered it over this camisole by Spanx (also featured in our What to Buy at Nordstrom post).

Then I used these neutral-colored strappy heels by Via Spiga (on sale over on Amazon) and this woven clutch which is my new favorite find from Bloomingdales.

Lastly, these gorgeous earrings are only $32 at Lilly Pulitzer.

Our Style Content is Inspired by Our Readers

Our readership inspires all of our posts and is not sponsored or paid for by brands or retailers.

Some links are affiliate links, which means if you purchase via our site, we receive a small commission.

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5 Spring Staples for Under $100

April 7, 2021 by Megan Kristel

Depending on your wardrobe, you may only need a few fresh pieces for spring.

If so, today’s post is for you. I rounded up 5 easy to incorporate spring staples that will build out your wardrobe, each with a unique twist, all under $100.

As always, there is something for everyone here, in all sizes.

5 Spring Staples for Under $100

Please remember, prices are subject to change and inventory may be limited. This post is NOT sponsored in any way.

Block Heel Slingbacks, $80 (Originally $178)

A few seasons back, I purchased a pair of tortoiseshell print pumps from Ann Taylor (still available), and they quickly became one of my go-to shoes. The combination of black and brown create a lovely pattern that works with so many pieces. So when I stumbled on these block heel slingbacks in a similar design by Kate Spade (on incredible sale), I knew they would be an excellent item to share.

A block heel has been around forever, but its most recent interpretation is just as comfortable but has a slimmer, more feminine profile. This particular pair is perfect for summer, with a practical heel and seasonal slingback styling.

You can wear this with skirts and dresses, ankle pants, or how I wore mine recently with white jeans and a black fitted sweater. Use the print as a neutral to create interest and depth to your outfits.

Woven Clutch

Woven Clutch, $58

When I found this woven clutch at Bloomingdales, I squealed. I LOVE it.

It looks designer for under $60. Available in bone (above) and dark tan (here), I bought both for our trip to Greece this summer (we will be vaccinated in time to go, so, yay!!) But let’s not wait until then. This can go to drinks with friends, date nights, baby showers, weddings, graduations and all the things Spring has to offer that we had to miss last year.

White Blazer

White Blazer, $77

A white blazer is always on my list of must-haves for spring, but they weren’t as easy to find this year. If you already have one, pull it out of your closet and pair it with boyfriend jeans. Any time you can create “tension” in an outfit, like partnering a tailored blazer with soft, casual jeans, you create a modern, stylish look almost instantly.

If you need a new one, I like this one from Express (also available in petite).

I’m also keen on this double breasted style from Lioness at shopbop. Madewell has a similar style in in plus size here.

Floral Top

Floral Top, $79

You know those occasions when you want a fun top, something different, that you didn’t just wear all day in the office?
This is what you want.

It fresh and seasonal, with a modern cut, super flattering neckline, and cut like a blouse and tunic in one. You can wear it out or do a front tuck like on the model above.

Available in four colors, in XXS – XXL and plus size here in black. And in yellow plus here.

Because the sleeves are full, pair it with a slim or straight leg bottom to help balance out the effect. I love it with white jeans and a pair of woven sandals.

Tie-Waist Pants

Tie Waist Pant, $60

These tie waist pants from Athleta have over 600 5-star rave reviews.

They are available in every size, from 00 – 26 in regular, petite, and tall. I’m showing them in plus size above because I want to reinforce the fact that you can wear whatever you want regardless of your shape your size. The model is showing it with sneakers for a sporty look. I would also pair them with pointy flats or strappy sandals.

Our Style Content is Inspired by Our Readers

Our readership inspires all of our posts and is not sponsored or paid for by brands or retailers.

Some links are affiliate links, which means if you purchase via our site, we receive a small commission.

Learn about our mission to help women look and feel their very best, every day, here.

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How to Style A Navy Blazer for Spring

March 12, 2021March 10, 2021 by Megan Kristel

While many people are still home-based, there is an entire segment of our readership back in the office and can’t go to work in a matching loungewear set. 😉

It’s hard to believe that it’s been exactly one year since the last time I published a true Wear to Work post, so it seems fitting that today, we jump back in.

And since it’s been so long, a little introduction on how these posts work:

Wear to Work is a series posted every Wednesday highlighting workwear. The featured pieces range from better basics to stand-out splurges, all with specific directions on how to wear them and use them to add value to your wardrobe.

Most often, it’s a post like today, where I take a key piece and show you how to wear it multiple ways.

What makes this series (and really this website) different is that I intentionally reuse pieces I know you have in the inspiration outfits. So when I structure these posts, I take the perspective of a stylist working with a client. I use to send emails to my private clients like this, providing suggestions for how to wear the new items in their wardrobe, with the pieces I knew were hanging in their closet.

That’s how you build a functional wardrobe. Considering every purchase and knowing how to wear it before you bring it in.

As always, you’ll find both inspiration and recommendations in these posts. Before you purchase anything, look in your closet to see if you have something similar, and if you decide you could use something new, you can look at these offerings as an option.

Today, I’m featuring a fantastic navy blazer ($30 at Old Navy) and showing two ways to wear it in the spring. If you need something that fills the space between formal and casual business layer, this is a wonderful option.

Classic Ponte-Knit Blazer

Blazer, $34 Sizes XS – XXL here, and 1X – 4X here

Please note, sizes and prices are accurate at the time of publication and subject to change.

A navy blazer is a staple in any wardrobe. I’m showing you two ways to wear one today, but the reality is you can wear this a dozen different ways all season long and never get bored.

Over the last few seasons I have found so many gems at Old Navy. From their Stevie Ponte pants (on sale for $15), to this cowl neck sweater I lived in all winter. And one of our top selling items of ALL TIME is there 3/4 sleeve knit dress in grey.

So it’s no surprise that I love this blazer, done in the same Ponte fabric as the Stevie’s. It has some weight and stretch making it a fantastic layer for Spring.

Let’s dive in.

Over a Dress

Dress, $40 | Heels, $94 | Clutch, $20 | Earrings, $35

You’re not alone if you feel like COVID wreaked havoc on your waistline. Many of us do. But don’t be discouraged and fall into the habit of wearing oversized clothes. There are many options to wear now, at affordable prices to help you get to work and feel like you pre-lockdown self.

Lark & Ro is an Amazon brand I discovered a few years ago. They have a collection of dresses in jersey stretch that check all the boxes: fit, quality, and style.

I ordered this navy and white print for myself. The v-neck and side tie are both flattering and helps “hide” anything that may make you feel uncomfortable.

I love the versatility of it. It looks lovely under the blazer because their fabrics complement each other. But you can just as easily throw it on to go to dinner outside in the warmer weather.

The 12-Hour Madison pump is another Reader Fave on sale for under $100. They are a solid, neutral workwear heel. You could also wear a sandal or flat, depending on your preference.

I found this crisp white clutch for $20 at Target that is worth highlighting. It’s very slim, with only enough room for your phone, a cardholder, and some lipstick. You could carry a structured tote to the office and slip this if you can run and grab a drink with a friend after work.

Finally, these large woven hoop earrings come in gold and silver-tone. I like the bit of drama and movement they provide.If you have something similar in your jewelry box, think about pulling them out.

Over Basics with a Twist

Pants, $50 | Shirt, $21 | Heels, $150 | Earrings, $95| Leather Tote, $188

Generally speaking, I’m not a fan of khakis. But I thought this was a great opportunity to show how you can take a boring piece in your closet and zhush it up with some modern basics.

I’m using a pair of tan ankle pants from Express for the bottoms, but you can use any tan bottom you already have as long as it fits well and has a slimmer line to the leg if you have these Wit and Wisdom jeans in beige in plus size here.

Then I paired it with this French Blue Strip button-down we featured a few times already (also from Amazon). I own this and adore it.

Next, leopard print heels. Remember, leopard print is neutral when used in small details. If heels aren’t your thing, achieve the same look with a pair of flats, the Rothy’s leopard flats would work perfectly.

For earrings, these huggies are a fun twist on a traditional pearl earring.

Finally, grab a tote, like this leather option from Madewell, and you’re on your way.

Our Style Content is Inspired by Our Readers

Our readership inspires all of our posts and is not sponsored or paid for by brands or retailers.

Some links are affiliate links, which means if you purchase via our site, we receive a small commission.

Learn about our mission to help women look and feel their very best, every day, here.

Get on The INSIDER Waitlist for Spring/Summer 2021

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Review: The Everlane Cashmere Sweater

March 2, 2021March 2, 2021 by Megan Kristel

If you spend any time on Instagram, you may see some of your favorite influencers singing Everlane’s praises. The company is currently on a sponsorship blitz, so most if not all of those stories you are watching are paid ads.

This is fine, but it’s important to understand when you see these ads, the influencer has to say exactly what the company wants them to say. It’s why content on social media platforms can feel redundant.

And it’s why I don’t make sponsorships part of my business model.

So I thought it would be helpful to share my unsponsored perspective because since they are not paying me, I can say whatever I want 😉

Personally speaking, simple, classic pieces are the backbone of my wardrobe. I prefer slim-lined cuts and neutral colors. I’m trying to balance my desire to feel pulled together with my need for practicality in my current season of life.

And because I’ve yet to find a money tree to plant in my backyard, price point is always considered.

The Everlane Cashmere Crew has, in fact, become an absolute staple in my spring and even summer wardrobe.

In Real Life- Everlane Cashmere Crew

Everlane Cashmere Crew, $100 | Jeans (old Joe’s) | Rothy’s Sneakers in Grey Camo, $125

On Sunday, I wore it with a stretchy pair of dark jeans and my Rothy’s sneakers in grey camo (one of the most comfortable shoes I’ve ever owned).

For reference, I am 5’10 and typically wear between an 8 – 10. I am wearing the cashmere crew in the large in charcoal. I personally pay for all of my clothing and accessories.

Knits are the best category Everlane offers. I’ve tried their jeans and am not a fan, and I use to love their white tees, but recently they have become too sheer to wear.

Everlane Cashmere Crew

Sweater, $100

Cashmere is one of the best kinds of little luxuries.

You can wear a simple cashmere sweater with your best pair of black pants to the office and with cut-off shorts at the beach. It’s the epitome of my own personal style: classic, relaxed, and subtly refined.

But, as with everything, prices can be all over the place. So let me say: you don’t have to spend a small fortune to get high quality. Just in organizing this post, I found several cashmere options over $400.

That’s bananas.

In all categories of clothing, you reach a point where price has nothing to do with quality. Over the years, brands and retailers have been living on another planet with their prices, especially for basics.

And don’t get me started on how their prices skyrocketed as their level of service sunk into the gutter.

Perhaps, I’m getting old and more conservative with my money (these are both true). I am, however, very willing to pay for things that will last and even happier to pay for service and ease of transaction.

Everlane checks all those boxes. What I like the most about them, aside from their clean and modern design, is their prices are what they should be.

High Quality, Fair Price

Sweater, $100 Available in 15 colors, in sizes XXS – XXL

The fact that this sweater is $100 is an incredible value.

The cashmere is called “certified grade A” which is the highest quality you can buy. It’s often touted as the reason for the high retail costs for other brands.

It’s ethically sourced from Mongolia, which is a premier location for cashmere that, again, tends to drive up the base costs.

So what does this mean? Basically, you’re getting all the high designer talking points at a fair price.

Size-wise, I find Everlane runs small. Be sure to check your measurements against their size guide.

This specific sweater has a relaxed fit; it shouldn’t cling to you or feel oversized in any way. It’s not heavy; rather, it’s a lightweight, thinner knit that you can wear all year long.

Pros:

High Value | Great Quality | Classic Style | Fast Shipping

Cons:

Sizing is limited.Currently available sizes range from XXS – XXL. I think the XXL is their way of claiming “inclusiveness,” but I’d like to see sizing expanded to include a true 2X.

Especially since this sweater runs small, I typically wear a medium (in J.Crew etc.) but sized up to the large. The medium felt snug across my shoulders and the sleeves were a tad too short.

The large fits just right.

For reference I am 5’10 and wear a medium or an 8 -10.

Returns. Everlane is a mid sized company so remember, it’s hard for them to compete with Amazon and even Nordstrom when it comes to quick and free returns. That said, it’s worth mentioning that the original shipping costs are not refundable and you have 30 days to return from the date of shipment.

Our Style Content is Inspired by Our Readers

Our readership inspires all of our posts and is not sponsored or paid for by brands or retailers.

Some links are affiliate links, which means if you purchase via our site, we receive a small commission.

Learn about our mission to help women look and feel their very best, every day, here.