Versatility is Key

One of the most important qualities to look for in the pieces that you purchase for your wardrobe is versatility. To make the most of your wardrobe you want to purchase pieces and outfits that can be worn in multiple situations. You want to be able to take your outfit from playground to dinner to work. So how do you do this?

First, you want to purchase pieces that can pass as both casual and chic. For example, instead of buying a plain white t-shirt, purchase one that has extra detail. Always look for something that has a little extra sparkle that will carry it from day to night or home to office. It's not as hard as you might think. It may take a little more effort to find the right piece but it's worthwhile when you are doing less shopping overall.

Another key to pulling off versatility in your wardrobe is to remember the importance of accessories. A flat sandal will make a simple sundress a great daytime piece. Switch to strappy high heel sandals, add a dressy necklace or chandelier earrings with a cute clutch and you're ready for an evening out. These may seem like subtle changes but in reality they can go a long way towards maximizing your wardrobe.

Take for example, one of the outfits I posted about in the playground blog. This white top paired with  linen joggers can be worn for (1) play, (2) work (in a casual work environment) and (3) evening out.

Change out the long chain necklace and flat sandals for a statement necklace and pair of high heel sandals. Suddenly you're ready for a house party, BBQ, dinner out, drinks after work, or evening out at the beach. With multiple choices in where to go, you're clothes will go so much further in your wardrobe! It's all about having choices!

Photography credit for this post: Beth O'Brien Photography

These Are The Days You Wear White

Just when you thought that we were approaching cooler temps (to gently remind us that Fall is around the corner)...  Summer hits us with the hottest steamiest temps yet! Ugh. This heat is oppressive. I walked outside this morning and turned right around to head back inside. I was not prepared for the wall of steam I walked into!

So put all those thoughts of Fall and back to school on hold for the next few days. Pull out the lightest outfit you have and drink lots of water. If you’re struggling with what to wear out in this heat, I promise you’re not the only one! Stick to lightweight fabrics. Cotton and linen work great to keep to you cool. Keep in mind that color matters too! Black absorbs the sun so these are the days to pull out your whites! Those little white dresses that sit in your closet because you have nowhere to wear them…. That’s what you pull out on days like today!

A white dress makes a great outfit basic. Keep things casual and easy with flat gladiator sandals. For an evening out, add a heel and a clutch!

When shopping for a white dress if you don’t already have one in your closet, look for one that is fully lined. This will eliminate the need for additional undergarments to hide any ability to see through the dress! White dresses are to be worn in the hot summer heat… find one that stands on its own!

This little white dress was a TJ Maxx find that I purchased last year. It’s a Tahari dress that I scooped up for less than $50. It’s full lined, 100% cotton. The white eyelet detail screams summer and the breathable fabric is perfect for hot temps. The simplicity of this dress allows it to be dressed up or down for brunch with the girls, date night out or family dinner! Even wear it to work paired with a navy blazer or jean jacket for colder office temps. Add the accessories that suit your plans and off you go!

Photography credit for this post: Beth O'Brien Photography

The Floral Print Trend

Floral prints have been everywhere this summer! This bold pattern makes a great addition to your wardrobe as a standout piece. But is it here to stay? Or will it be another passing trend? Do you hesitate to buy a piece that will only end up in the back of your closet never to be worn again?

I can appreciate the hesitation to take on a new trend. When we purchase a trendy piece it feels dated after while. When the trends move on, the piece ends up falling out of your rotation. However, did you ever notice how items hidden in your mom's closet came back in style? My mom owned some beautiful pieces that would inevitably come back into fashion. Pieces that are old enough are considered vintage finds. Buying and wearing "vintage" pieces is considered stylish and chic.

Where the floral trend is concerned, I didn't have to shop for something new this season. Turns out that I already had the perfect trendy piece sitting in the back of my closet!

I purchased this skirt from Banana Republic so long ago that I can't remember the year. I'm fairly certain it was more that 10 years ago which in my mind qualifies it as "vintage". When I saw the floral trend hit this season I immediately thought of it. When I put it on I realized it need a little tailoring. The original skirt was an A-line fit and a little big on my frame. I took it to my seamstress and she tapered the skirt from its original A-line shape to a more sleek silhouette.

This vintage piece is 100% silk and fully lined. I can't remember how much I paid for it but I can pretty much guarantee that the same skirt is worth about 3 times as much today as I most likely paid for it when I purchased it. The quality of fabric and stitching in the items we purchase off the rack today doesn't compare to what it once was. Vintage finds come with amazing quality ... sometimes at a fraction of the price.

If you're looking for ways to carry this summer trend into the Fall season, consider the colors. In the Summer, we love to wear bright colors, pastels, and lots of white. As we move towards Fall you will start to see darker shades and jewel tones come into play. If you're looking to extend a trend, look to incorporate the next set of colors into your outfit. In this case, I paired this pink skirt with a burgundy top. Deep burgundy is a perfect Fall color and helps to transition this skirt into the Fall season!

Photography credit goes to Beth O'Brien Photography. For further information please see Friends of Beacon Style.