Spring Outfits

5 Maxi Dresses to Wear Now and Later

by
5 Five Maxi Dresses For Now and Later

Our Private Facebook Group is a gift. At almost 3,000 members strong, it’s a treasure trove of ideas and inspiration to help me come up with specific posts that serve our ever growing audience on a daily basis. 

One question, posted a few days ago, was about maxi dresses. 

So, how is everyone feeling about maxi length skirts or dresses? Are they over or about to have a new moment?

And the consensus was pretty unanimous – we love them!

Of course, not every style is for every person, so I was surprised and delighted to read such enthusiasm.

Based on that question, and the comments that followed, I thought it would be helpful to share a few options that you can wear right now and then later, along with some “best practice” tips.

So let’s start there.

Maxi length dresses are everywhere. Formal, casual, swim coverups … you have your pick!

But for today’s post, I had a few requirements.

First, you have to be able to wear a regular bra. None of this strapless nonsense while we’re social distancing at home. And no funky cut outs, or backless details. 

Now is not the time 😉

Second, length is always an issue.  So I made sure to include petite options (you still might need to have it hemmed), a few that will work if you are tall, and some that will hit right below your calf, so no matter your height, you’re covered.

I ordered two of these and will share pictures over on Instagram when it warms up – it’s still a little chilly on the East Coast. 

Finally, the prices on most of these are insanely good. 

Five Maxi Dresses for Now and Later

 

 

5 Five Maxi Dresses For Now and Later

From left to right: V-Neck Jersey, $35 | Solid Tiered, $68 (take 30% off for under $50) | Soft Satin, $119| Floral Tiered, $35| Short-Sleeved Jersey, $25

Maxi dresses are nice alternatives to the leggings/joggers/jeans that we’ve all been living in.  Now that the weather in many of our towns is getting warmer, having one or two of these on hand will help break up how mundane many of our wardrobes are feeling. 

Outside of staying at home, these are lovely, breezy pieces to wear to the beach, a casual dinner, or an night with friends (remember them??). 

I like them as an alternative to shorts or short dresses and, as a bonus, they help you instantly feel more feminine. I don’t know about you, but I could benefit from feeling normal, and pretty right about now. 

 

5 Maxi Dresses to Wear Now and LaterV-Neck Jersey, $35

This affordable dress is flattering, comes in five colors including this pretty pink above. It’s available in petite and regular from and XS – XL. 

5 Maxi Dresses to Wear Now and LaterSolid Tiered, $68 (take 30% off for under $50) 

Megan’s Pick!

I absolutely love this simple tiered dress. It’s available in for colors in sizes XXS – 3X. Pair it with flip flops around the house and then flat sandals when we get back out and moving. 

5 Maxi Dresses to Wear Now and LaterSoft Satin, $119

A high low hem adds just a wink of drama to your look. Throw this on at home for a date night on the deck, and then add a strappy sandal, pile on some bracelets and grab a wrap for real date night in the summer. 

5 Maxi Dresses to Wear Now and LaterFloral Tiered, $35

Megan’s Pick!

Bright, cheerful, and only $35. You can’t feel down in this dress so I put it directly in my shopping cart.  Again, wear it now with flip flops, take it out on a neighborhood stroll, and then wear it for a night out with friends this summer. Available in 00 – 20.

 

5 Maxi Dresses to Wear Now and LaterShort-Sleeved Jersey, $25

Like a sweatsuit, only not, and maybe better. You can curl up on your sofa, watch a movie, and play with the kids but look and feel a little more pulled together.

Wear it now with whatever you like, flip flops, slippers – who cares! But later add a sweet pair of sneakers and a denim jacket. Available in XS – XL. 

And, don’t forget about this short sleeve tee shirt maxi I featured a few weeks ago – it’s long (I’m just shy of 5’10) and is getting lots of wear right now. 

Our 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 View Post 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. 

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

If you enjoy our content and would like to help us grow, please consider following on Instagram and join our Private Facebook Group to access more advice and exclusive in-depth conversations with other like-minded women.

The Tie Dye Trend For Grown Ups

by
Tie Dye Trend for Adults

I thought it would be fun to try some trends outside my wheelhouse over the next few weeks, while we’re staying home, and highlight them here. 

Maybe we’ll discover a few updates we can wear when we’re out and about this summer that we would otherwise have skipped right over.

I’m starting with tie-dye. 

Somehow, for reasons far beyond anything I can understand, a global shut down created a massive trend in tie-dye. From sweatsuits and pajamas, to spring dresses, and even hair accessories.

It’s everywhere and much of it is really expensive, like hundreds of dollars for a tie-dyed sweatshirt. This is where retail loses me. Something you can make in your bathroom is sold for $400. 

I always say, price isn’t a single guidepost for quality. Somethings are worth a higher cost, some aren’t.

Generally, tie-dye doesn’t exactly fit into my style. So I’m starting with this subtle, “grown-up” tie-dyed sweatshirt for around $20 – a price that seems reasonable. 

Tie-Dye for Grown Ups 

Tie Dye Trend for AdultsSweatshirt, $30 ($21 with code HURRY)

Technically this isn’t tie-dyed. It’s ombre or dip-dyed, which seems like a better translation of the trend to wear now at home and later in the summer.

These days I’m wearing it at home, with distressed jeans. In the summer, it will look cute with white bottoms, like shorts or relaxed ankle jeans at the beach. I like it because it’s lightweight, similar to the LOFT sweatshirt many of you picked up earlier this month.

Old Navy continues it’s epic series of sales. Today, this shirt is marked down to $21 when you use the code HURRY.  

I have it in the pink (see below). It runs true, I’m wearing a medium. 

In Real Life

I’m posting work from home outfits over on Instagram. If you enjoy our content, please consider following along. I am a few hundred followers away from hitting the coveted 10,000, which opens up business functions that would help us grow and monetize, something small businesses need now more than ever.

Our 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 View Post 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. 

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

If you enjoy our content and would like to help us grow, please consider following on Instagram and join our Private Facebook Group to access more advice and exclusive in-depth conversations with other like-minded women.

Classic White Button Down for $20

by
Classic White Button Down for $20

Ever since I was a young girl, I loved the look of a classic white button down. I remember seeing Carolina Herrera for the first time on T.V., gracefully walking out from behind the curtain of one of her fashion shows, in her tailored black pants and perfect white shirt.

I never saw anyone so elegant.

She immediately became my north star of style.

The vision stayed in my head my whole life, and I dipped in and out of the look through my 20’s and early 30’s. But it’s only been over the last few years that I’ve felt “grown-up” enough to feel totally comfortable in it.

These days, having a few simple outfit combinations, that feel polished but not overdone, has really helped me stay productive while managing work and the current chaos of home life.

Classic White Shirt 

Classic White Button Down for $20

Classic White Button Down, $21

For a long time I opted for a super fitted style – I was so cute, but those days, sadly, are over. 

Today, I’m all about a classic cut, not boxy, not overly fitted. And I don’t want to spend a small fortune. A white button down is a lot like a white tee shirt – there’s no rhyme or reason to pricing and quality is rarely reflected in the cost. 

In my pursuit of a shirt that fits well, and works for my budget and lifestyle, I tried dozens of brands. Imagine my surprise and delighted, when out everything, the one I like the most came from Amazon Essentials for $21.00.

I’m wearing the medium, it runs true, with sizing starting at XS – XXL. 

It’s not sheer, the fit is great and it washes well. 

I picked up several so I always have some on hand. Here, I paired it with a pair of dark skinny jeans. Of course, you can wear them with a straight leg for the same look. And I’m wearing my favorite Rothy’s that have turned into a slipper alternative.

General Fit and Care

Remember, not all pieces work universally. Button downs are tricky for many when it comes to fit. If you have a full bust, it’s not always worth the alterations you would need to do to get the fit right. (It usually involves sizing up and altering down, or having something custom made.) 

But if they work for you, they can be a polished and ladylike staple in your classic wardrobe. 

I wear mine half tucked in the front – a trick that actually helps hid your midsection. Doing so creates a chic, casual vibe, like you’re Diane Keaton in any move she’s ever been in. 

What’s the best way to keep them white? Well, Carolina Herrera herself once said, “A bar of dove soap and warm water.” Which works, beautiful. Just scrub around the color, cuff, and under the arms to keep them from turning yellow, and throw it in the dryer on low.

Other Options

Brooks Brothers fitted no-iron shirt is a go to. Available in missy and petite in sizes 0 – 16. Currently 30% off. 

 

Our 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 View Post 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. 

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

If you enjoy our content and would like to help us grow, please consider following on Instagram and join our Private Facebook Group to access more advice and exclusive in-depth conversations with other like-minded women.

 

 

An Easy Spring Dress to Wear Now and Later

by
Easy Spring Dress to Wear Now and Later

I rarely find anything to buy in a LOFT store, but online I could fill my cart with dozens of items. Which is just what I did a few weeks ago. In that haul I picked up these updated “sweatshirts” and this pretty dress. 

I plan to wear the dress around the house working from home as a nicer looking (but just as easy to wear) alternative to jeans and leggings. It’s a sweet, buy now, wear now and later piece.

The dress is on sale for 50% off, available in missy and petite from a XXS – XXL (18). LOFT has a solid plus size department too. This specific dress isn’t available, but they have dozens of other options here. 

So today I’m breaking down how to style it, for our current situation,  and for a night out in the warm weather. 

Work from Home Outfit

Easy Spring Dress to Wear Now and Later

Wear Now: Dress, $90 (on sale $45)  |  Cardigan, $34  |  Sneakers, $100  |  Earrings, $45 

I’ve been a study of extremes my whole life. An all in or all out kind of girl. So it’s safe to say that I’ve had more than a few days looking like a swamp person over the last few weeks.

Yesterday I woke up early to get some work done, threw an old fleece over my pajamas, and stayed that way until 4. I finally got dressed to go on our family walk and felt a million times better. 

It has been a solid routine and the act of getting up and getting dressed that has saved my sanity during this and kept me productive. 

Now that the weather is getting a little nicer, I’ve ordered a few dresses to have on hand as a nicer alternative to jeans and leggings. Because just like in the real world, dresses are the easiest thing to put on and still look like you tried. 

For this stay-at-home outfit, I added a pair of simple white slip-on sneakers. These are by Ugg; they are a grown-up version of Van’s, with some cushion on the inside and just a little bit of texture on the leather. 

As a layer, I added this ribbed, oversized cardigan from H&M. You know how much I like H&M’s knitwear. The quality for the price point is excellent. The look should be full, not fitted. The idea is that it’s cozy and casual. You should be able to take it on or off depending on the temperature quickly. 

Then, these sweet earrings from Gorjana, one of our go-to brands for affordable, better quality costume jewelry. 

Summer Date Night 

Easy Spring Dress to Wear Now and LaterWear Later: Dress, $90 (on sale $45)   |  Sandals, $70  |  Clutch, $66  |  Earrings, $35

Whether you’re going away or staying local, I love this warm weather look for a date night or summer party. The dress is lightweight and breezy so you can wear it in high temps. 

I paired it with these festive fringe earrings – also on sale at LOFT for $18. 

But what I love – LOVE is this clutch and these shoes. 

The bag is ideal for summer. When you need a bag like this, you can never find it, so if you have it in your budget, scoop it up now. You’ll carry it to any spring/summer event from showers and weddings, graduations, or like we’re using it here, for a night out. It’s on sale for $66. 

These sandals, by Dolce Vita thrill me. They are a lovely combination of a basic in a neutral with enough going on to feel special and elevate your look. The suede straps and straw block heel add texture to your look and feel special. They are on sale for under $70 with an additional 20% off at checkout. All sizes are still available. 

Our 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 View Postand 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. 

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

If you enjoy our content and would like to help us grow, please consider following on Instagram and join our Private Facebook Group to access more advice and exclusive in-depth conversations with other like-minded women.

 

A Feminine Sweatshirt for Under $20

by
PUFF SLEEVE SWEATSHIRT from LOFT

Now that we have an idea of how long we’ll be home based, if you’re like me, you may be looking to add a few new pieces to your current loungewear situation. 

So for the next few weeks I’ll continue to feature some pretty and practical pieces  that are well priced, like this puff sleeve sweatshirt I picked up a LOFT for under $20. 

LOFT Puff Sleeve Sweatshirt

PUFF SLEEVE SWEATSHIRT from LOFTSweatshirt, On Sale, $19.80

Like everyone, I’m trying my best to establish a sense of normalcy at home so my family can get out of this relatively unscathed and to keep my mental health in check.

Getting up and getting dressed for the day has worked wonders for me. And having a few, inexpensive pieces to look forward to receiving and wearing, as silly as it sounds, feels like a treat.  

Work from Home Staple 

I ordered this from LOFT (they are currently having a site wide 60% off sale) in both the grey and white. It was just what I wanted, a sweatshirt, but elevated. While they are calling it a sweatshirt, it’s not in the traditional sense. It’s heavier than a tee, but lighter than a traditional sweatshirt. 

Trust me, I’ve had my days of looking like an absolute slob. But after a few days of it, I NEEDED to pull it together. This fits the bill for these hectic days of managing the kids schooling and our own work. 

It’s easy-peasy to wear with jeans or joggers, and I love how they have it styled with a pair of shorts for a summer night at the beach (how amazing does that sound right now?)

So pick it up now while it’s on sale. They size range is solid, in both missy and petite, in a XS – XXL. 

There are many sales going on right now. I’m sorting through all of them to only feature the best ones to take advantage of. As I’ve mentioned before, I’m maintaining my publishing schedule to (1) keep my sanity, (2) provide us all with a happy and optimistic space and (3) to help keep the economy moving as best as possible, given our current situation. 

In Real Life

 

 

 
 
 
 
 
View this post on Instagram
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

 

🌈This month we have to do everything we can to stay positive and grateful. . We know the news is devastating. . So we need to protect our mental health for the well-being of ourselves and our families. . After two days of feeling dark I got up, got dressed and headed into my sun filled office. . Today I feel ready to take on everything being thrown at us and more. . Some days are going to be better than others. So let’s just give ourselves and everyone we know grace and assume we are doing the very best they can. . Today I’m wear the @loft top I featured on Monday’s blog post. It’s like a tee shirt and a sweatshirt combined. . ❤️I ordered it in white and gray. . 👇🏼for all of my outfit details follow the link in my profile and click “Shop My Outfits” . Hang in there friends, we got this💕

A post shared by The Well Dressed Life (@thewelldressedlife) on

Our 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 View Postand 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. 

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

If you enjoy our content and would like to help us grow, please consider following on Instagram and join our Private Facebook Group to access more advice and exclusive in-depth conversations with other like-minded women.

 

 

 

Classic Trench Coats for Spring

by
High Low Trench Coats

Over the last few weeks I received enough requests for trench coat recommendations to warrant its own post. And if we’re talking trench coats, that means we’re talking spring! So lets get started.

As I was organizing this article, I realized there’s actually a lot to unpack.

Over the years, trench coats have consistently been the category past clients, and current readers have considered splurging on, while others have wanted something moderately priced and well made, and others are looking for something affordable and simple.

Today, I’m highlighting the splurge and the incredible dupe I found, along with the under $100 option that covers all sizes.

I made sure all of the coats share as many style elements as possible, so they offer a true comparison. These three options are all double breasted, with a flattering length that will cover your bum, and similar in color. 

Trench Coats: Splurge, Spend and Save 

High Low Trench CoatsHigh : Burberry Short Trench, $1790 vs. Low: Banana Republic Classic Trench Regular and Petite Sizes,Regularly $230 now $114 with code BRFAMILY

We’ve talked before about how to create a high-end style without breaking the bank. Knowing were to splurge, spend, and save is essential.

In a nutshell, a splurge is a piece you wouldn’t typically purchase, with timeless, high-quality elements. Sometimes it’s a celebratory self-purchase or a gift, like handbags, jewelry, accessories, and in many cases, a trench because nothing is more timeless than a Burberry trench.

Splurge: Burberry

Banana Republic TrenchThe classic Burberry trench is beautiful, it’s impeccably made, and feels luxurious when you slip it on. I purchased mine eight years ago at the Nordstrom Anniversary sale for about $900. I had just landed a big client and treated myself to something I always wanted. (You can see mine below in this post.)

And I couldn’t pass up the price which I haven’t seen since. 

I’m thrilled I have it, more so now because I love the idea of passing it down to one of my girls. 

Would I buy it today? I’m not sure.

Splurging on items that are fit based is tricky because, as women, our bodies are shifting and changing all the time. If you’re body tends to stay the same over the years, and it’s in your budget. Go for it. 

Aside from their incredibly limited sizing (and they run small) I don’t have a bad thing to say about it.  It’s a wonderfully crafted garment. You feel like you’re wearing something special without having to be precious with it. 

But if you want the same look, in a high quality and a much better price point, I found a fantastic dupe. 

Spend: Banana Republic 

Banana Republic Trench

Banana Republic Classic Trench Regular and Petite Sizes, $230 now $114 with code BRFAMILY

I’m cautious of calling something affordable because that’s relative to the individual. I say “spend” when something would be a considered purchase. Originally this coat was $230, but right now it’s on sale for $114 with code BRFAMILY. Thank you for calling out the savings in our comments this morning! 

However, it’s a fantastic coat that’s reasonably priced, and shares all the styling elements of the Burberry. From the double-breasted buttons to the side pocket details and cuffs on the sleeves – it’s as timeless as the piece it pulls inspiration.

And because it’s Banana Republic, you get a nice size range. This comes in regular and petite, up to an XL or a 16.

What’s even better is the functionality. This is water-resistant, so it’s functional in addition to being a fashion piece.

If I didn’t already have a Burberry, I would buy this, and splurge on a piece of jewelry or handbag instead. 

Where to Save

If you need an under $100 option, I can’t get over this one from J.Crew Factory. It’s $99, has similar details, and comes in regular sizes from a 00 – 24 and petite 00 – 16.

Isn’t it amazing that retailers like J.Crew and Banana Republic have expanded their sizes, but department stores have pulled many of their petite and plus departments? I just don’t understand it. 

Style Your Trench

It’s always a happy day when I pull my trench out for the first time each season. It means spring is here, the sun is shinning and there’s that wonderful crispness in the air.

 

No matter which trench you buy, you’ll wear it so many ways. It pulls an outfit together instantly. It’s the epitome of chic yet casual. Wear it with your go-to black pants, your distressed jeans and everything in between. 

Our 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 View Postand 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. 

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

If you enjoy our content and would like to help us grow, please consider following on Instagram and join our Private Facebook Group to access more advice and exclusive in-depth conversations with other like-minded women.

_________________________________________________________

 

A Must Have $22 Top for Work

by
An Updated Top for Work

Get ready, because this post is JAM-PACKED with super wearable, size-inclusive pieces that stand alone or can be paired together. I had a hard time coming up with a post title because there are so many good pieces here. 

We’re continuing to focus on filling in the voids of our wardrobes, starting with this sweet and simple $22 top from J. Crew Factory.

Better Than A Tee Shirt – Tee Shirt

When I worked with personal clients, I use to look for what I called “better than a tee shirt – tee shirts.”

I define it as something:

– finished enough so you can take your jacket or blazer off comfortably.

– versatile so you can pair it with everything from jeans, your favorite trousers, or a pencil skirt and not feel like you have to add more to your outfit. 

– a straightforward piece that is elevated more than a basic cotton tee.

When I spotted this at J.Crew Factory last week, I quickly grabbed a few for myself and made sure to add it to our content calendar. 

It’s only $22, so scoop it up before it sells out. 

Textured Puff-Sleeve Top by J. Crew Factory

 

Top, $22.50

Available in the five colors above, I purchased the coral and the ivory – which is a true ivory. It looks yellow-based in pictures but in person it is ivory, or off white. I doesn’t look dingy at all.

The sleeves have a subtle puff style. Don’t worry they don’t make your shoulders look bigger than they are, it’s just a nice detail.  And you can comfortably layer something over it.

I love that the fabric has a bit of texture too. It looks like a cross-hatch, so you get some added depth and interest. 

If you are looking for an ideal layering piece that can also stand on it’s on, this is it.

I’ll be featuring it a lot in upcoming posts.

Regarding size, if you are in between or want a little more room consider sizing up. I am a true medium, but bought the large because I like how it drapes and worry about it eventually shrinking. 

Because J.Crew Factory has a fantastic size range, you can get this top in up to a 3X. 

An Outfit Full of Must Haves

Top, $26.50  |  Pants, $110  |  Heels, $75  |   Bracelet, $58   |   Earrings, $35   |   Tote, $195

My goal is to provide accessible outfit inspiration without it being boring. When writing these posts I envision how most of us get dressed in the morning: our eyes half opened, stumbling into our closets, hoping a cute outfit jumps out at us. 

If you have the right pieces, it’s easy to quickly get dressed. Today is an example of how basics coming together create a simple yet elegant look. 

For this inspiration outfit I used pieces I know many of you already have, and a few worth picking up. 

First, the top, in coral, because I love the combination of coral and navy in the spring. 

Next, I paired the top with ankle pants from Banana Republic. These get rave reviews from readers for their fit, quality, and the fact that you can wash them. They are available in regular AND petite from a 0 – 20, a stunningly awesome size range.  

Next, I added these tan suede heels from Taryn Rose. If you are not familiar with Taryn Rose, listen up! 

She is a former orthopedic surgeon who started a line of shoes that are both comfortable and stylish. Usually, her prices are around $200 (+), BUT these suede heels are on sale at Zappos for $75, so they might be worth checking out if you are looking for both function and fashion from your footwear. . 

Then I added accessories I know many of you already have, like this navy tote from fan-favorite Cuyana and updated studs from affordable jewelry brand Gorjana. 

Finally, because I can’t resist a little animal print and extra love it with this color combination, I included this super chic patterned bracelet you can pick up on HSN for under $60. 

Shop this Post

 

Our 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 View Postand 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. 

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

If you enjoy our content and would like to help us grow, please consider following on Instagram and join our Private Facebook Group to access more advice and exclusive in-depth conversations with other like-minded women.