Summer Outfits Archives - Page 2 of 6

Back to Basics: Classic Mid-Rise Chambray Shorts

June 24, 2020June 24, 2020 by Megan Kristel

One of the challenges I’m having, as I create content this summer, is finding recommendations that meet my standards. In all my years in and around retail, I’ve never seen such low inventory levels.

With the lack of inventory comes a void of size options.

For example, I’ll find a great pair of shorts, but there will be almost no sizes available, or they don’t offer an inclusive size range. Which means I can’t feature them.

As much as I want to do one comprehensive round-up of shorts that is size-inclusive and offers a variety of lengths, there aren’t enough options to do a full post.

Instead, I’m going to dedicate a few posts to specific options within our Back to Basics series. Doing so will allow me to post quickly, and you can act fast. I am starting with these mid-rise chambray shorts, at an astonishingly low price from Old Navy.

Old Navy Classic Mid-Rise Chambray Shorts

Sizes: 0 – 20 $13.50 and Sizes 16 – 30, $16.00

These have an almost 5-star review from customers. The fabric is soft and light – not a ton of stretch, with a 5″ inseam or a 7″ inseam here.

Thank you, Old Navy, for offering one of the most inclusive size ranges in retail. I know they are not the highest quality, but for shorts that you are going to wear a handful of months, you don’t need to pay exorbitant prices.

I like chambray as a more polished alternative to denim. You can wear them the same way; the fabric is just a little more elevated.

They are an easy short to pair with tops you already own. This poplin top from Banana Republic (featured here) would be super cute, so would this sweet and simple white top from Boden (featured here), or this popular eyelet top from LOFT – on sale for $22 (featured here.)

Of course, my favorite way to wear these is paired with my Breton Stripped Top from Boden.

Sizes: 0 – 20 $13.50 and Sizes 16 – 30, $16.00

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 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.

How to Wear Wide Leg Pants

June 27, 2020June 23, 2020 by Megan Kristel

Wide-leg, lightweight pants are a fabulous option in the summer if you want an alternative to shorts or capris.

BUT, they are one of the trickiest bottoms to pull off because the success of the look is entirely dependent on balancing proportions.

You can’t just throw on any top.

So today, I’m breaking down how to wear wide leg pants, with three outfits that can take you pretty much anywhere this summer.

How to Wear Wide Leg Pants

First, let’s talk about what you should look for in the pant.

For this post, I went with these navy crepe trousers from 1.STATE. They are on sale at Nordstrom for $59 in sizes XXS – XXL in navy and white, and black for $39 here.

Plus size? This option from Lane Bryant in a similar crepe looks perfect.

As an alternative, Lands End has a simpler pair, also in crepe, also a pull on with less fabric. Available in all sizes, plus here.

Like many wide leg pants, these are high waisted. That’s important to note because it comes into play with the featured tops.

Regarding length, you have options. If you want a length, they need to be hemmed perfectly for your height, meaning that when you’re in a shoe, they need to just skim the ground. This look works best if you are tall.

In the summer, many of these pants come in some kind of crop. Generally, the area around the top of your ankle to the bottom of your calf is ideal. Once you start cutting through the calf, you enter capri territory, and we all know how I feel about that.

Depending on your frame, the width of the pant may be overwhelming. If that happens, remember, you can have these easily altered. If you try these (or any pair) on and you the fit of the waist and rear, have them hemmed to your most flattering length and ask to take a little bit of fullness out. It’s an easy fix.

How are you wearing these?

The outfits below are ideal for the office, a date, or a small get-together. As always, you can shop this post full of practical recommendations OR use it as inspiration so you can see how the components work together.

Simple Structure

Wide Leg Pants, $60 | Shirt, $28 | Sandals, $150 | Bag, $30 | Necklace, $13

This is one of my favorite looks because it’s elegant and has structure. Because the pants are so full, you need a top that will help create balance. This simple white jersey top from COS brings a lovely drape and feel.

They are calling it a “crop” top, but it’s not, it’s just short, and that’s what you want. You won’t show your mid-drift. Instead, this will sit over the high waistband, and you can leave it out, full or half tuck it. I LOVE it.

For the shoe, I used these reader favorites from Sam Edelman in bright white. A flat sandal works well here, so would a block heel. Avoid a delicate shoe because the fullness of the pant will overwhelm it.

Keep accessories simple with this long necklace ($13 on sale at Nordstrom Rack) to give a subtle layer that drapes against the fabric of the top, and a round straw bag from H&M provides texture.

Pretty Pattern

Wide Leg Pants, $60 | Top, $69.50 | Sandal, $248 | Clutch, $25 | Earrings, $45

Next, this patterned sleeveless top (from Banana Republic) is another lovely option because it gathers at the waist, creating a beautiful shape to the outfit. It’s a great top for the summer and available in several prints and colors. All are on sale for under $50, in regular and petite up to and XXL.

I used these sweet earrings from Gorjana that mimic the top’s pattern, my favorite, splurge-worthy Tory Burch sandals, and this fantastic $25 woven clutch to add depth with texture

Monochromatic

Wide Leg Pants, $60 | Top, $39.50 | Sandals, $120 | Clutch, $17 | Earrings, $68

Finally, a monochromatic navy look. This is important because wearing one color can help you look taller (and slimmer!) so if you are on the petite side, and want to try out a wide leg pant, this is a way to do it.

This navy top has subtle lace trim on the sleeve – another easy-to-wear summer piece from Banana Republic. It also comes in white, light blue, and olive in regular and petite up to an XXL for under $40.

Tuck the top in to show off the detail on the waistband.

The sandals are the block heel version of the flat Sam Edleman sandals in the first outfit. Remember, you can add a heel, but keep the balance by using a block heel.

Then the accessories are effortless. For earrings, my new favorite Soho studs from Julie Vos, and this $17 clutch, again, from DSW.

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.

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How to Wear a Romper: Three Easy Looks for Real Life

June 22, 2020June 19, 2020 by Megan Kristel

When rompers first became popular a few seasons ago, I quickly associated them with the cute little outfits my kids wore and ignored the idea for grown-ups.

In my defense, the first round of rompers as a category in women’s fashion were either strapless or off the shoulder, and the shorts were short, short, short. Most were skimpy, like something I would have worn to a bachelorette party in my twenties – ah, youth.

Happily, trends evolve, and while I wouldn’t call a romper a “staple,” it has expanded its style to make more sense for the average woman – myself included.

So right before we left for the beach, I ordered this romper from Amazon. It’s by Daily Ritual, an Amazon brand known for quality casual pieces at affordable prices. I have a few items from the line and have always been pleased with them.

Let me tell you; this is the coziest thing I have worn all year. (See it in real life at the bottom of the post.)

Three Easy Ways to Wear a Romper

Romper, $31 Available in sizes XS (0-2) – XXL (20 – 22) in olive (above), black, navy and stripe

While we were away last week, I spent mornings on the beach, and around lunchtime brought the baby back to the condo for a nap. I slipped into this and sat out on our balcony, reading and enjoying a glass of wine; it was divine.

There is no better feeling than washing the sand and sunscreen off your body and wrapping yourself up in something soft. So if you are beach-bound, consider having this on hand.

I barely styled it. Instead I pulled my hair back and wore flip flops. Now that we are back home, with a restrictions almost completely lifted, there is more opportunity to leave the house.

Below are some ways to bring it into your everyday life, using pieces I’ve featured over the last month.

Errand Running

Romper, $31 | Sneakers, $50 | Baseball Hat, $15 | Studs, $55

After almost four months of being cooped up at home, I am SO HAPPY to feel busy again. For days of running errands or picking up and dropping off kids, this is perfect. I have and love these chic sneakers from Dolce Vita at DSW for under $50. They add a fun pop of print to so many outfits.

Then a simple baseball hat. This one I have in pink, but white feels fresh and will go with more in your wardrobe—finally, these studs from QVC. I’ve highlighted them a few times this month. They are just comfortable, everyday earrings you can wear with anything.

Low Key Date

Romper, $31 | Sandal, $198 | Clutch, $48 | Studs, $35

I love the casualness of the beach. At least in the shore towns we frequent, everything is so wonderfully relaxed. In normal times I was always found it a welcomed break from how intense life on the east coast can feel.

For a night meeting up with friends at the beach, I’d throw this on and then add some elevated basics.

These Tory Burch “Miller” sandals are a step up from a flip flop. I’m crazy about this color called “make up.” You can also find an array of colors that will work as a neutral-to-you over on Zappos.

Then I added this gorgeous clutch from Tuckernuck, it’s my favorite leopard clutch ever – and you know I have a million of them 🙂 If it’s your first purchase, be sure to sign up for their mailing list and get an additional 20% off.

Finally, you don’t want to over do it on the accessories, so I used these simple studs from Gorjana that I know many of you already own.

Work from Home

Romper, $31 | Sandals, $100 | Headband, $10

Lastly, many of us will be working from home for at least the rest of the year. While it’s so convenient, I suspect that for many, the novelty is wearing off a bit.

It’s too easy to stay in loungewear all day, but if the loungewear looks like an outfit – you have a win-win.

Here, I added a real shoe. This sandal slide from Sam Edelman has been popular with readers this month, it comes in a ton of color options. Sometimes wearing an actual shoe while working from home can help you focus.

And then I added a pretty headband to quickly create a Zoom -ready hairstyle with little to no effort.

After a Day at the Pool … How to Wear a Romper In Real Life

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💕The coziest thing I’ve worn all year. . I featured this $30 romper from Amazon on Friday’s blog. . It is the perfect little thing to slip into after a day on the beach or at the pool. . I’m wearing a large (I always size up in Amazon pieces) and it fits great. . It slips on easy, the shorts are a reasonable length (I’m 5’10) and most important, it’s very comfy in the waist band. . 🥰I love how the top kinda drapes and looks like two pieces. . Nice size options depending on the color you choose. . Follow the link in my profile and click “New on The Blog” to buy and see how to wear it three ways

A post shared by The Well Dressed Life (@thewelldressedlife) on Jun 21, 2020 at 1:51pm PDT

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.

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

Striped Top Outfits: How to Wear a Striped Top Three Ways

June 17, 2020June 17, 2020 by Megan Kristel

One of the most important staples in a classic wardrobe is the striped top. You can wear it all year long, but the summer is the season it really shines.

You can wear it so many ways and it’s simple to pair with the items you already own.

Today, I’m showing three options that you can alter to fit your body type and budget. Every item featured, I’ve either showcased before (so you may already own it) or I recommend.

But remember, you can also use this as a guide and find something similar that fits your specific needs.

These posts are designed to both inspire your own creativity and help provide product recommendations.

How to Wear a Striped Top Three Ways

For the striped top I am featuring the popular Boden striped boatneck top. This lady sells out all the time but is currently available so scoop it up. It’s under $40 and runs true to size.

For other options be sure to check out our post from last month rounding up striped tops in all sizes.

I created three looks including one with shorts, one with a white jean and then a fun skirt outfit that will help you understand how to mix pattern and shapes together.

Let’s get started.

Shorts

Striped Top, $38 | Shorts, $49.50 (ON SALE FOR $20) | Sandals, $100 | Crossbody, $22 | Earrings, $56

This look is something I live in all summer.

Whenever I wear shorts, I always pair them with a 3/4 sleeve top. It brings a sense of balance to the outfit.

These shorts by LOFT are available in missy and petite. They have a mid-rise cut, with a 4″ inseam and front pleats – which makes them feel a little bit dressier. If you want to try these, go for it, they are currently on sale for $20 and go up to an XXL which is about a size 18.

Plus size? Inventory is limited, but these chambray shorts from Old Navy are fantastic. They’re a similar mid-rise, from a size 16 – 30 for only $16.

Then I added these simple Sam Edelman slides in white ( available in lots of other great colors).

This $22 crossbody bag I found at Target is a steal and these fantastic studs from QVC that look like the real deal for under $60.

White Jeans

Striped Top, $38 | Jeans, $31 | Clutch, $48 | Sandals, $59 | Earrings, $68

We’ve established that white jeans go with everything. Above, I used a pair by Wit & Wisdom, but I also highly recommend NYDJ (see my top picks here).

Generally, a white jean looks best in either a skinny or straight leg that hits at the ankle or is full length and slightly breaks on top of your foot. I used this comfortable wedge slide from Aerosoles in a go-with-everything tan for under $60.

For earrings, these Soho “X” earrings by Julie Vos are under $70 and are a fresh interpretation of a classic stud. I ordered a pair for myself.

Finally, a leopard print clutch because I love an animal print and a stripe together. This one from Turkernuck is under $50. It’s a beautiful piece to familiarize yourself with the brand. I ordered it too because I plan to be extra social the second half of 2020 to make up for lost time.

Full Skirt

Striped Top, $38 | Skirt, $128 | Sandal, $70 | Clutch, $27 | Earrings, $28

Finally, a striped top, when styled correctly, can be used as a neutral. If you have ever wanted to learn how to mix and match patterns, the easiest place to start is to pair the stripe with a floral or floral-like pattern.

Because we completely skipped over the spring season, we missed the forecasted trend of fuller skirts. These were meant to balance out all the maxi lengths we’ve been seeing. It’s safe to say they aren’t going anywhere, so if this lady like style is for you there are tons of options out there.

I found this cheerful yellow daisy print skirt, with deep pleats around the waist, at Nordstrom. It’s available in an XXS – XXL or about a size 18. There is also a plus size option here.

To pull of the look you have to fully tuck the top in, so keep that in mind, it won’t work for every body type.

I used a simple, white block heel sandal I found at DSW (all sizes still available). To play off the whimsy of the look, I used these oversized pearl drop earrings for under $30.

But the real steal of the outfit is this straw circle clutch from Nordstrom marked down to under $30.

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.

6 Tops to Kick off Your Summer Wardrobe

June 15, 2020June 15, 2020 by Megan Kristel

Maybe your days are filled with Zoom calls, you’re headed back into an office, or you’re venturing out to see people for the first time in what feels like forever.

Whatever your schedule, after months of being cooped up at home making do with what you have, you probably have some voids in your wardrobe.

This time every summer, I stand in my closet and say, “I just need a few tops.”

You would think finding some tops that make easy outfits would be a breeze. But with so many options that are too bare, or so sheer you require an additional layer underneath, it’s quite time-consuming.

Today I thought I’d save us some time and I’d start the week with a roundup of pretty tops, with a real sleeve that can work double and triple duty in a variety of sizes.

6 Tops to Kick off Your Summer Wardrobe

Poplin Puff-Sleeve Blouse by BR

One, $63

This crisp poplin top from Banana Republic is perfect to pair with white jeans, or navy ankle pants. Take it to work with a simple ballet flat or add a wedge sandal for much needed night out.

Available in regular and tall sizes, in XXS – XXL. It’s also on sale for 40% off and then an additional 20%, so if my advanced math skills are correct, it’s around $30 right now.

Summer Dot Boatneck Top from Ann Taylor

Two, $70

With a universally flattering neckline, this polka dot blouse works with any bottom. I would pair it with either summer white jeans, or a navy bottoms like an ankle pant or skirt.

Available in regular and tall, in size XS – XL. This is also on a crazy sale, use the code CYBER60 and get it for under $30

Puff Sleeve Knit Top at Nordstrom

Three, $49

Maybe you need a solid basic, that you can pair with any kind of bottom and jazz up with accessories. I love this option from Halogen, a private label brand found at Nordstrom. The slight puff at the sleeve elevates it, and the knit fabric let’s it breath while not being transparent.

It’s available in black, green, navy and cobalt blue (above) in XS (0-2) – XXL (18).

Carey Top by Boden

Four, $59

Boden is a much-loved brand for our readers, and this one, available at Nordstrom for 30% off, is a great basic. When I look for white tops, I try to find ones with a little something extra. Here, the ruching around the neckline creates interest and a lovely drape.
You can full tuck, or half tuck this top into any bottom; it’s especially lovely with a colorful pant or print skirt.

Available in white only in sizes 2 – 16.

Gibson Drape Blouse at Nordstrom

Five, $18

By far the best deal on the list is this drapey blouse from Gibson at Nordstrom. This top will fall away from your body, It’s under $20! You can wear it out with slim lined bottom, or tuck it into a high waisted pair of paints.

I’m featuring it in what they are calling “navy abstract cheetah), but it’s also available in basics black, aqua, cobalt blue and a pretty peachy rose. Available in petite and regular from an XXS – XXL.

Scatter Dot Belted Top by 1. State

Six, $79

Finally, I absolutely love this tie wasted top by 1. State (also at Nordstrom) for plus size. It’s an incredibly flattering cut, with the stitch detail in the front helping to pull the eye in and the tie waist designed to show off your shape. It’s important to pair this with a slim cut bottom to keep the look proportional.

Available in 1X – 3X here.

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.

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

A Pretty $50 “Date Night” Dress

June 6, 2020June 5, 2020 by Megan Kristel

Remember date nights?

It’s been over three months since Bri and I went out or did anything even remotely fun. The most exciting place I’ve gone is Target, and I’ll be honest, wearing a mask while you’re walking around it hasn’t lowered my bill, but it has removed all joy.

My home state of Pennsylvania has had some of the strictest stay-at-home orders in place since March. But today, my county’s restrictions are lifting, and restaurants can open for outside dining.

I made a reservation the second they were available (they all filled up in minutes) at one of our favorite places. Pretty sure we’re eating under a tent in a parking lot – but I do not care one bit.

We’ve been part of our community for over 15 years. We’ve watched it grow from an up-and-coming neighborhood to a robust and thriving urban suburb. Supporting our small business, especially our restaurants after all they have been through, and getting away from my kids for an hour or so is a no brainer.

AND I’m putting on a real outfit.

A Pretty $50 “Date Night” Dress

Dress, $100 (ON SALE $50) | Sandals, $90 | Clutch, $35 | Earrings, $38

LOFT is having another great sale. I picked up a few dresses early last week. Their shipping is some of the quickest without having to pay more, which is nice since generally shipping can take up to two weeks.

I picked up this dress anticipating outdoor dinner dates and I love it. I ordered the large and medium and end up keeping the medium which is my normal size. There isn’t a ton of difference in sizes so if you’re in between you might want to size up.

It’s available in regular from an XXS – XXL and plus size from a 14 – 26. The sale price is fantastic. It’s gathered at the waist, has a pretty split neckline, a subtle shimmer thread running down the fabric, AND it’s lined.

A block heel is practical and stylish. These by Via Spiga are fantastic at an incredible price. They are so comfortable. You can certainly wear a strappy, lightweight option, but I like how these ground and dress down the look.

I added these oversized hoops from Gorjana to add some movement and layered detail. They are on sale for under $40.

Finally a clutch.

A CLUTCH!!!!

Oh how I have missed tiny handbags. I featured this one in May’s Ten List, so many of you already have it. The “white” option is more like a bone. It’s only $35 and is inspired by Bottega Veneta’s “Cloud” bag which will run you about $1400.

In Real Life

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A post shared by The Well Dressed Life (@thewelldressedlife) on Jun 5, 2020 at 4:00pm PDT

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.

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

My Favorite Chic Swim Cover Ups

June 4, 2020June 4, 2020 by Megan Kristel

For many of us who are moms, after having our kids at home for three months and attempting (poorly in my case) to educate them, news that pools are reopening is a moment to rejoice.

I can’t tell you how many times over the last few weeks I received or sent a text that read, “the pools just need to open.” These kids need to get out of the basement, off their devices and into the sunshine.

And you know what, so do we.

It’s amazing what a few hours in the sun can do for your soul.

So today, I thought it would be helpful to rounded up some of my favorite coverups that are both chic and practical. There are so many options out there, many seem as revealing as the bathing suit itself.

But I really like a simple, lightweight fabric, cut like a tunic or dress that actually, you know, covers you up a bit!

My Favorite Chic Swim Cover Ups

First, let’s talk about price points. By now, you know I am a proponent of quality of quantity and buying the best you can afford.

But it feels like things these days are becoming expensive for the sake of being expensive.

For example, the average price of a cover-up that I found while organizing this post was $125. That’s stupid.

So for today’s post I kept the price under $70, in many cases, well under $70.

I find that if you buy one or two cover ups a year, that are nice quality you’ll have them for many, many seasons.

V-Neck Caftan

V-Neck Caftan, $58

This deep V-Neck Caftan in a timeless black and white print comes in sizes XS – XL. It’s also available in a tank dress style here.

Lace Tunic

Lace Tunic, $68

I really love this lace tunic option with scalloped sleeves. It feels special, like you’re getting dressed up for something. It’s light and feminine, in sizes XS – XL.

Floral Tunic

Floral Tunic, $20

This $20 floral tunic looks like romper, with its waisted defining gather detail. It will look best over a black suit. If you’re feeling saucy, add a pair of bold earrings, like these star-fish shaped ones from Bauble Bar.

Boyfriend Shirt

Boyfriend Shirt, $68

There is nothing more classic than an oversized shirt style cover up. This one, by Tommy Bahama is limited in sizes. I would throw a pair of denim shorts in my bag and half tuck the shirt when running to grab something to eat by the beach.

Mesh Dress

Mesh Dress, $68

I ordered this Moroccan-inspired tile print dress for myself. I love the pattern and fabric. It will be great to keep on while sitting in the baby pool with Vivi. It’s currently on sale at Bloomingdales, in sizes S – XL.

Black Tunic

Black Tunic, $67

This tunic style cover up by Ralph Lauren is specifically for plus size, also on sale at Bloomingdales. I love the deep v-neck and cut of the sleeve. Add some oversized sunglasses to really lean into the glamour.

Pom Pom Trimmed

Pom Pom, $35

This adorable Target find is only $35. It’s on the shorter side, but still gives nice coverage. This is specifically plus size, up to a size 3X. It’s also available in XS – XL in white and navy here.

Lace Trimmed

Lace Trimmed, $69

La Blanca is my favorite brand for coverups and swimwear. I’ve had them for years and am always happy when I pull them from the back of my closet. The quality is worth the price, but it’s even better when you can grab them on sale here. Sizes range from XS – XL and plus size here.

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.

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