ruffles

The versatility of summer t-shirts and tanks

How is your summer going? With camps canceled and a continued work from home scenario… there is a fair amount of juggling happening here. With all this juggling I am finding that a versatile wardrobe is a necessity this summer.

Two of the most popular items in my wardrobe are the t-shirt & tank. I am making the most of my summer t’s this season. Over the years, I’ve tried all different styles and found my favorites. I prefer a V-neck or a crewneck or any other neckline. These are both the most flattering and comfortable for my body type. I personally also prefer a tee that includes some embellishment… maybe a little lace or eyelet…maybe a ruffle sleeve. In my opinion, a little something extra goes a long way.

One of the keys to creating a versatile wardrobe, is finding items that fit your body type. When an item flatters your fit you will be much more likely to wear it regularly. You will naturally gravitate toward it. Try on different styles, colors, patterns, fabrics and necklines. Find what you love and stick with that.

The beauty of the t-shirt/tank is that it naturally pairs so well with other pieces. Wear it with jeans, chinos, shorts or a skirt… dress it up with jewelry or other accessories like a jacket, scarf or wrap. With so many options from so many retailers, you can find your perfect tee from your favorite retail shop fairly easily. And not to worry that the tee might go out of style… this item is always considered timeless.

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J. Crew Vintage Cotton V-Neck T-shirt

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J. Crew Eyelet Flutter-sleeve slub T-shirt

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J. Crew Vintage Cotton Tank Top

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BR Eyelet Ruffle T-shirt

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BR Linen Flutter Sleeve Top

Loft Dot Embroidered Ruffle Apron Bank Tank

Loft Dot Embroidered Ruffle Apron Bank Tank

Loft Pleated Ruffle Shell

Loft Pleated Ruffle Shell

Summer Trends - A Familiar Look

Summer is here! This warmer weather is so very welcome! I love getting outside, opening my windows and seeing the sun. After being cooped up in my house for so long I am thrilled to spend time outdoors.

Retail is also beginning to open their doors to the public. It absolutely feels different. Even if the store looks the same. In some cases, layouts have changed, fitting rooms are closed, plexiglass is up and masks are on. But what about summer trends? It used to be easy to walk by store fronts and see the latest trends on display. This is not necessarily the case anymore. Many of us are still shopping online.

Summer trends are taking shape a little differently this season. Often when you looked at online retailers you would see different collections pulled together based on trends. Currently the most popular trends are centered around “cozy at home” shops which feature loungewear at their center.

Other trends peaking this summer include linen, eyelet, ombre and tie-dye. Additionally, rompers & jumpsuits are continuing in popularity as are wide-leg pants and ruffle sleeve blouses. A few of these trends may already be in your closet from last season. If you’re looking to add something new to your wardrobe, I have some picks listed below from Anthropologie but these trends can be found at any of your favorite retailers.

The beauty of these summer trends is that they can all be applied to your wardrobe, whether you want to dress it up or down. Tie dye styles are available in loungewear and in summer dresses. Ombre styles are available in sweatshirts as well as blouses. Whether you plan to dress it up or down this summer, the latest trends have you covered!

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Lydia Ombre Tunic Dress

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Halle Tie-Dye Wrap Midi Skirt

Wellesley Tie-Dye Mini Dress

Wellesley Tie-Dye Mini Dress

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Canice Tie-Dye Tunic

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Avril Eyelet Jumpsuit

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Marlene Tiered Maxi Dress

Persephone Kimono

Persephone Kimono

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Fantine Ruffled Lace Blouse

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Fiona Lounge Pants

Marimekko Samota Wide-Leg Trousers

Marimekko Samota Wide-Leg Trousers

An Easy Spring Refresh

Spring cleaning? After a long winter (and let’s face it, they’re all long!) we’re itching to shed the layers and lighten our load. That’s especially true of how we feel about our closets. We’re ready to refresh our wardrobe when the weather starts to get warmer. Not only are we ready but we’re eager!

So what if you’re looking for a few new items to add to your closet for spring? What’s on trend and what makes for an easy wardrobe refresh? How about a new top or two to bring a little spark to your closet? A new top is an easy way to update your wardrobe - the key is to find the right top that works in your existing wardrobe - you want to maximize the versatility of your purchase!

When we think about a typical spring wardrobe, there are some consistencies we expect to see which include pastels, florals, ruffles, lace and lightweight fabrics. This season we continue to see the same consistent styles. These tops are feminine and romantic. Whether paired with jeans, a skirt or trendy wide leg pants, these tops can be worn to brunch, dinner out or the next school function.

Keep in mind that New England spring weather is the perfect example of inconsistency. The temperatures can range from 30’s to 70’s in just one day! So you might need long sleeves at the beginning of the week and then slide into something sleeveless by the end of the week. Keep your closet filled with a variety of options to meet the changing needs of Mother Nature this season.

One great place to start is the Friends and Family sale at Bloomingdales this weekend! Find fantastic options in spring tops at a discount! If you’re looking for some potential additions to your closet…. check out my favorite picks below!

Velvet by Graham & Spencer: Ynez Ruffled Lace Inset Top

Velvet by Graham & Spencer: Ynez Ruffled Lace Inset Top

Parker Quincy Floral Print Blouse

Parker Quincy Floral Print Blouse

Elie Tahari Zandaya Lace Cap-Sleeve Top

Elie Tahari Zandaya Lace Cap-Sleeve Top

1.STATE Ruffled Cold-Shoulder Top

1.STATE Ruffled Cold-Shoulder Top

Kate Spade NY Flutter Sleeve Floral Print Top

Kate Spade NY Flutter Sleeve Floral Print Top