Your Ultimate Wardrobe Checklist - 15 Essentials You Need Now
After 5 months in quarantine, I’m sure we all have one thing in common – our normal wardrobes have been neglected. Loungewear, sweat pants and t-shirts are heavy in the rotation right now! I’ve been lucky enough to squeeze in a few local trips since quarantine started, so my 2020 summer fashion has been a tiny bit more consistent. But this experience has definitely got me revisiting my wardrobe basics.
Be honest, when’s the last time you thought about the fundamentals of your wardrobe? It’s a lot more fun to fill your closet with the season’s hottest fashion trends, fun designer pieces, and anything in the Pantone color of the year. But you can still look incredible with creative styling of high quality wardrobe staples. Classic, quality basics will stand the test of time. They can grow with you, evolve with you, and serve you for years. Here’s my checklist for 15 wardrobe essentials every woman should own! They aren’t the hottest 2020 fashion trends, but they will stand the test of time!
Wardrobe Essentials Every Woman Must Have
Classic White Button Down Blouse
Black Tuxedo Blazer
Loose Fitting Black Trousers
A Slip dress in a pop color
A silk camisole
Boyfriend Jeans
These items are the foundation of a modern woman’s wardrobe. You can mix and match just these elements and come up with an outfit for pretty much any occasion. I’m a huge fan of slip dresses because they are so versatile. You can style a slip dress for pretty much any occasion – work, cocktails, brunch, anything! My fave 2020 summer fashion look involves a pop color slip dress, delicate sandals, and chunky jewelry. Equally versatile pieces are a white button down blouse and silk cami. You can’t go wrong with black and white, but you can also work in colors that are neutral and flattering to your skin tone.
You also have to have a few blazers in rotation, but my favorite is a classic tuxedo style blazer. They are so chic, and lend a level of elegance to your look. I love throwing on a tuxedo blazer to dress up a casual jeans and T-shirt look. And speaking of jeans – a boyfriend style is a must! I love skinny and bootcut denim, but if I had to choose just one style to keep wearing, it would be the boyfriend. The right pair of boyfriend jeans is flattering on most body types and has a sexy cool girl vibe. I love rocking my boyfriend jeans with cropped sweaters, fitted bodysuits, and fun accessories.
There are different cuts of denim coming in and out of style, and you may want to consider the 2020 fashion trends and how things will change over time. But I don’t think you’ll ever go wrong with the perfect pair of boyfriend jeans!
Must Have Accessories Every Woman Needs
A Black Leather Satchel
Delicate Gold Chains
A Nude Pump
A black belt
Gold hoop earrings
After you’ve got your wardrobe basics down, it’s time to accessorize! Accessories are the best way to elevate your look. Even the simplest outfit can be taken up several notches with the right accessories. I like to keep a good sized stash of accessories since they give you so many styling options and they don’t take up that much closet space. Every girl needs a pair of gold hoop earrings – real or faux. I also love delicate gold chains that you can layer for a more dynamic look. Stackable jewelry is actually one of the bigger 2020 fashion trends, and it will be here to stay! And don’t forget your footwear! Nude pumps will go with pretty much anything in your wardrobe, from jeans to party dresses. And it’s become so much easier to find shades of nude that may actually match your skin tone!
Closet Staples You Need to Update Now
A Multi Functional Bra
A flesh-toned bodysuit
Something Leopard Print
Red lipstick
Finally, you need some finishing touches! I consider leopard the new neutral, and every girl needs something leopard print in her rotation. It can be a pair of shoes, a scarf, a top, or all of the above. Leopard and tiger prints resurfaced as one of the biggest 2020 fashion trends thanks to Tiger King on Netflix! But leopard will truly never go out of style. I’m also a big fan of bodysuits and while black or white are my go to colors, I love the way a flesh toned one looks as well. They are so versatile and sexy in an unexpected way.
And you can’t forget your makeup. Even if you don’t wear makeup every day, a red lip is a bold power move to keep in your rotation. I love a matte red lip for a classic glam look. It instantly makes you look pulled together, no matter how casual the rest of your look.
And a bonus for 2020 and beyond – a fashionable face mask! We will be wearing them for the indefinite future and it’s important to stay safe. But staying safe doesn’t have to compromise your style! There are tons of options for fashion face masks that will go with pretty much any outfit. I got a few of my fashion face masks from Etsy, or independent designers on Instagram. You can pretty much find fashionable face masks at any of your favorite retailers, but I prefer to support small businesses whenever possible.
Let me know what wardrobe basics you are adding to your shopping list! Are you keeping up with 2020 fashion trends or focusing on the more timeless classics?
How to Instantly Look More Stylish This Summer!
Spring has been interesting to say the least. With all of the restrictions due to covid we have been spending more time at home than we have in ages. It looks like things are slowly starting to loosen up, and it’s time to have some fun while staying safe! I personally haven’t worn much other than sweat pants or leggings in almost 3 months, so getting dressed up again is a new adventure in itself.
In full transparency, I haven’t done any new summer shopping and don’t plan to. There is still way too much economic uncertainty due to covid for me to feel comfortable spending money on new clothes. I have been doing small things to help stimulate the economy the best I can, but shopping isn’t really one of them. However I have been getting creative with new ways to style things I own, and adding in accessories that elevate my look at an affordable price.
Even though I’m on a clothing shopping hiatus, jewelry makes such a difference. The right pieces can take your look up a notch and will work for every day cool girl style or for formal occasions. If you are looking for stylish, minimalist jewelry, check out Leo Mazzotti! The accessory brand is based in Switzerland and makes jewelry inspired by Italian style. The jewelry is pretty and dainty and the shipping is always free. The sent me a few pieces for review and I was so impressed with the quality. It looks and feels like fine jewelry, but the price points are almost all under $50.
I went for a classic silver sparkling necklace and earrings. They are timeless and classic and can easily be styled with everything from jeans and a t-shirt to a formal gown. For this post, I paired them with a yellow summer suit from Revolve for a playful sophisticated look. I love that this set can be dressed up or down, just by leaving off the blazer and trading heels for flats.
Since restaurants in LA are slowly starting to reopen, I wore this look to dinner with a friend in Santa Monica after this photo shoot. It felt good to shake the quarantine crust and get dressed up again, even though I totally forgot how to walk in heels! Hopefully we can continue to have more (safe) summer fun!
If you are in the market for some new summer threads, I’m linking this outfit and a few others I love below! And since there are plenty of Independence Day sales kicking off this week, keep your eyes peeled for additional markdowns. Stay safe and stylish babes!
4 Tips You Need to Know for Awesome Summer Style
I hope you are all staying calm and safe! I have been feeling up and down the past few weeks, focused on managing my anxiety and getting through this crisis. I wanted to shift gears a bit and focus on creating content that I love, and that hopefully inspires. While we are in quarantine with no end in sight, hopefully things will start getting back to normal by summer. I’m feeling optimistic that the coronavirus epidemic impact on summer travel will be minimal. I’m also hoping that our destination wedding will go on as planned, since I would hate to postpone the wedding due to Covid-19.
Whether you have weddings or travel planned this summer, you still have to get ready to slowly emerge from quarantine and get back to work and socializing IRL. That means making sure your wardrobe is ready! I have pretty much sworn off shopping just because of the economic impact of coronavirus. But I will be getting creative with shopping my closet and styling old favorites, updating a bit with super affordable accessories.
Here are my tips to freshen up your wardrobe and get back in style when quarantine is over!
Organize and Shop Your Closet
Now is a great time to take inventory of what you actually own! Go through your closet and drawers, especially the areas in the back that don’t get much attention. If you have time and space for storage, organize things to donate or sell online. I’m not doing this now because I won’t be able to go to a donation center for a while, and we don’t have the extra storage space. But if you can throw bags of unwanted stuff in your garage or somewhere for later, definitely do so!.
You can also think about reorganizing your closet in a way that makes sense for you. I try to have a section of work clothes, party clothes/formalwear, and my dresses, tops and blazers merchandised by color. It doesn’t always stay so organized, especially not after a few laundry sessions or dry cleaning dropoffs, but I do make effort to stick to the system.
Having everything organized and as visible as possible makes it easier to get creative with how you style items you already own. Play with combining different pieces, layering various elements, and making several new looks. It may take some time, but you will definitely be able to come up with fun, stylish new ways to wear your favorite pieces and resist the urge to just buy new stuff.
Take Advantage of Sales
Retail has been severely impacted by coronavirus, and the sales and discounts are unbelievable. If you are able to take advantage, you can definitely score some major bargains almost anywhere you’d like to shop. Most stores are closed but online sites still up and running. After auditing your closet, make a list of what you may be missing or what needs to be replaced. Whether it’s basic t-shirts because your old favorites are stained, or a pair of killer pumps that are on clearance, shop smart and strategically.
I personally am not shopping right now so have been making every effort to resist the sales! But I did notice that Nordstrom is offering 40%, Macy’s is offering 30% off and Urban Outfitters is 50% off! Revolve is also offering 30% off select styles so you can grab some of their cool-girl friendly summer styles.
Focus on Accessories to Update Your Look
Accessories can take your outfit to the next level! The perfect bag, statement jewelry, or pair of shoes can make or break the look. I love to get on-trend accessories from Amazon. There are hundreds of affordable options and designer dupes that can elevate your look at super cheap prices. Lulu’s and Forever21 are also some of my faves for budget friendly accessories .
For summer, look for mini bucket bags, square toe strappy sandals, soft folded clutch bags, and chunky gold jewelry. Bold padded headbands are still trending this season, and so are colorful blocky sunglasses. Have fun spicing up your look with color and texture, but I don’t recommend spending a lot on trendy accessories! They can come and go out of style in a matter of weeks so not worth investing heavily in.
Don’t Neglect Your Hair and Makeup
I’m probably one of very few people that still does basic hair and makeup every day, even though I’m not leaving the house. Something about having a daily routine helps me maintain a sense of normalcy and gives structure to my days. If you aren’t someone who is particularly into beauty, there is no need to start a new regimen now. But if you are a beauty lover or someone who frequents salons, try to keep up with your beauty treatments at home.
I know, I know, it’s probably been a few weeks before you’ve been able to go to a salon! But self-care is always important, especially in times like these! You want to be ready to slay the second we can get out of quarantine, so don’t let things get too rough. You don’t have to do any elaborate styling or makeup, but stay on top of basic maintenance, like filing your nails, trimming cuticles, and regularly washing and deep conditioning your hair. When it’s time for you to get back into full glam, the process will be much easier!
Hopefully these tips help you get some ideas for when this is all over. But in the meantime make sure you are staying home and staying safe!
6 Ways to Get Ready for Valentine’s Day!
Love is in the air!
We’re just a few weeks away from Valentine’s Day. No matter your relationship status, Valentine’s Day is a great opportunity to celebrate the ones you love, show them some appreciation, and eat a ton of candy! I love Valentines’ Day, and not just because I’m lucky enough to have a fiancé that is a hopeless romantic. I guess I’ve always had an appreciation of the holiday and what it means – celebrating love and relationships in all their forms! If you aren’t exactly feeling the Valentine’s Day spirit, here are a few tips to help get you in the mood.
Plan a Galentine’s Party
Get your girls together for some fun! You can host a chic pajama party at home, go out to a fancy dinner, or keep it casual and hit up your favorite bar. Bonus points if you promise NOT to talk about boys all night, regardless of your current dating or relationship situation. Focus on time with your friends and strengthening those female friendships!
Book a Coveted Beauty Treatment
Self-love comes first! It’s really easy to get stressed and feel pressured or anxious, especially this time of year. Treat yourself to some rest, relaxation and indulgence. If you love spa treatments, book a massage or facial that you love. If you’ve been debating trying a cosmetic procedure or new hairstyle, go ahead and treat yourself. You deserve to look and feel your best. Check out sites like Gilt City for deals, or follow salons and spas you love on Instagram for exclusive discounts in case you want to save a bit on your experience.
Volunteer for a Cause in Your Community
Show love by giving back! While charitable associations see a huge influx in volunteers around the holidays, numbers start dwindling in the weeks after. Now is a great time to show your support for a cause you stand behind. Think about a cause that will inspire you and get you engaged in your community. It’s normal to feel a little bit of Valentine’s Day dread. Keeping yourself busy in a productive way that supports a cause is a great way to shake off some of that moodiness.
Set Up a Fun and Unique Date Night
If you are seriously coupled up or just casually dating, plan a fun and romantic night out! You can avoid the overpriced and overpacked restaurants and do something more creative. See a show, go to an arcade, go wine tasting, or something beyond just dinner at a local restaurant. You can also save money and avoid the crowds by going out the day before or after Valentine’s Day! Find a way to make celebrating Valentine’s Day fun, unique and special, instead of falling into the same old routine.
Enjoy Some Quality Time to Yourself
Part of self-care is giving yourself room to disconnect. If you’ve been feeling stressed, swamped and overwhelmed, you may need to indulge in some much needed me time. That can mean curling up with a good book, spending time on journaling and meditation, or lazing by a pool with a good cocktail in hand. Maybe it even means planning a quick solo trip or staycation to reset. Think about what you need to center yourself and stay inspired, and carve out time to treat yourself to that.
Freshen Up Your Wardrobe for Spring
Shopping is almost always a good idea! February is a great time to start planning your Spring shopping since most brands drop their new collections that month. Get first dibs on coveted pieces before they sell out! Plus, a lot of retailers are still having end of winter sales, so grab some goodies to save for next season.
Check out my picks for some of the Valentine’s Day looks I love!
The Most Stylish and Affordable Outfits for Every Bridal Shower
I am coming off the weekend of the best bridal shower ever! My bridesmaids really showed off and showed out and made winter wonderland magic. I shared a ton of the content on my Instagram, so check out my wedding highlight in case you missed the fun.
Since we are officially in the middle of engagement season, you may find yourself planning a bridal shower of your own pretty soon. I spent weeks trying to figure out what to wear for my bridal shower, before settling on the perfect little white dress. In my case deciding what to wear to a bridal shower was extra challenging because I didn’t know any of the details! Bridal shower attire can range widely depending on the theme, location, time of year, and level of formality. All I knew about mine was that it would be in NYC in January. I started to think about winter white sweaters and cozy looks, but decided to keep my bridal shower fashion sexier and more glam! I wanted to have fun and wear something that would stand out and not have my dream look ruined by the weather. So, I decided to brave the New York winter weather and rock my dream bridal dress ! That’s what taxi rides are for anyway right?
If you have a bridal shower coming up and can’t decide what to wear, keep reading for my favorite bridal shower outfit ideas, all under $200. There are plenty of outfits I considered wearing before settling on my final look and other looks I love from my favorite affordable retailers. From cocktail dresses to 2-piece suits, get ready to shop for the perfect bridal shower look for any theme!
Bridal Jumpsuits for Weddings and Bridal Showers
Jumpsuits are having a moment, especially for brides to be! They can be fun, edgy, sexy or timeless. I fell in love with this wide leg lace top version from Pretty Little Thing, and the strapless bustier style from Lulus. Both had super flattering wide leg bottoms made from a thick material to keep from being see-through. The result was a flattering fit that slimmed my legs and didn’t reveal any undergarments. Satin is also great for an evening or more formal bridal shower, and I was obsessed with this version from Shop Red Dress. It’s been in and out of stock, so sign up for the wait list if you want to try to get it when it’s back in stock.
Little White Dresses for Wedding Events
A little white dress will always be a classic! Since my bridal shower was in the evening and I felt like it was going in the direction of a more glam theme, I decided to go for a sexy cocktail vibe. This satin puff sleeve mini dress from Lulus fit the bill perfectly. It highlighted my curves but the oversized puff sleeves balanced out the sexiness and made it more fashion forward. I also fell in love with this little mini dress from Shop Red Dress since the embellishments reminded me of snowflakes. I thought it would be great for the winter themed bridal shower!
2 Piece Sets and Suiting for Brides
If you want to go even more unconventional, why not a 2-piece set or suit? This white sequined tuxedo from Asos is incredibly unique and will have all eyes on you! If head to toe sequins doesn’t sound like your style, there are plenty of 2-piece skirts sets that are perfect for someone who is more of a classic bride.
If you are trying to decide what to wear to a bridal shower I hope these tips helped! And follow the rest of my adventures in wedding planning on the blog and on my Instagram @malikahkelly!
4 Quick and Easy Ways to Improve Your Style for Spring!
Can you believe we are already halfway through January! Last year I felt like January dragged on forever but this year it seems to be flying by. Since Spring will be here before you know it, why not start thinking about how to transition your wardrobe? Spring is honestly one of my favorite seasons to start shopping, although I will probably barely notice the change of seasons here in LA! NY gets to experience the best of every season, but LA is warm and sunny almost all year round. Can’t complain because the weather in LA is absolutely the best, but I do miss dressing for different seasons and embracing seasonal fashion trends. Here are my tips for transitioning your look from winter to Spring!
Start by Denim Shopping for Spring
Jeans are always a staple for women. Whether they are high waisted jeans, or oversized boyfriend jeans, denim is an essential! I love freshening up my denim wardrobe for Spring with new fits, washes and details. Lighter shades, metallics, and prints are all fair game. Once you have your perfect pairs of jeans, think of fun ways to style them. A classic white button blouse will work with pretty much any pair. That look can easily be dressed up or down depending on your shoes and accessories too! I also love styling high waisted mom jeans or oversized boyfriend jeans with a fitted bodysuit or crop top for a look that is sexy and sporty.
Update Your Spring Floral Dresses
Yes, we see different versions of spring florals every year, but they don’t have to be boring and predictable! Spring florals can be edgy, stylish, modern, and romantic, depending on the scale, placement and color. If you are looking for Spring outfit ideas, a floral dress is always a good place to start. You can layer it with a cute chunky knit or stylish denim jacket and they pair well with everything from boots to penny loafers. Embrace the Spring vibe with some fun, flirty and feminine dresses.
Play with New Fabrics and Textures for Spring
Spring is time to lighten up so start by getting rid of your heavy winter fabrics! Go for easy, breezy materials like silk, chiffons and light weight cotton. I love a flowy chiffon dress or a pair of silk jogger pants, and they are just as chic in natural silk or a more affordable synthetic version. Plus, items like this easily transition from Spring to Summer, so you can continue to get use out of them throughout the year.
Add the Perfect Spring Accessories
Now that you’ve got your cute Spring outfits planned, it’s time to think about the accessories! Updating accessories is a fun and affordable way to get your wardrobe ready for a new season. Swap out your go to Fall or Winter bag for something in a lighter color or fun material. Think about picking up some new costume jewelry. And since it can still be a little chilly, don’t forget the legwear. You can still wear tights in Spring, and they are a great way to add a special touch to your look. I also like the idea of adding a pair of cute socks with a print or ruffle detail for an unexpected bit of texture.
If you’re anything like me, you want to update your wardrobe without over spending. Check out some of my favorite sites for affordable fashion and shop some of my Spring faves below!
New Years Eve Outfit Guide - What to Wear to Ring in 2020!
So the year is just about over! I’m very lucky to say that 2019 has been a fantastic year for me, so I’m super exicited to celebrate it. I’m keeping my plans low-key since these wedding deposits are no joke, but I still want to dress up and have a blast. If you are looking for the perfect outfit, I rounded up some of my favorite looks to ring in the new year! I know 2019 hasn’t been great for a lot of people, but at least you can toast to the fact that you made it through and are on to bigger and better things. If 2019 hasn’t been amazing, at least your outfit for the last night of the year can be!
Party Separates and 2-Piece Sets for New Years Eve
2 piece sets started out as a trend and have pretty much become the new normal when it comes to getting dressed. There is a set for almost any occasion, so why not New Years Eve? Whether you want a tiny crop top and oversized pants, or a 70’s chic sequined fringe suit, you’re sure to find your match made in heaven! There is a great selection everywhere from Asos to Nordstrom, so you can find something at any price point! Some of the pieces below are sold together and others have separate links so you can mix sizes. When shopping you may have to browse for the matching piece if it’s not linked on the main product page.
Party Dresses for New Years Eve
You can never go wrong with a dress, so why not a playful, sexy, or sparkly one for New Years Eve? I am obsessed with the oversized bow minidress, and love the elegant blush pink draped number. If sequins aren’t your thing, a shimmery satin or crushed velvet will still feel festive and eyecatching, without being over the top. I think a mini dress with tights is more fun and playful, or go for a maxi dress for a more formal or glam occasion.
Statement Tops for New Years Eve
If you want to make a statement with your blouse these are perfect! Pair with everything from boyfriend jeans to leather joggers. The fitted styles or bustiers would even be great with wide leg palazzo pants. There are great options depending on how little or how much coverage you want, from the tiny cropped bustier to the oversized sparkly t-shirt!
Let me know where you end up celebrating the New Year and of course what you will be wearing!
4 Easy Ways to Look Effortlessly Chic when Traveling
I have several trips planned this month and am so excited! Travelling can be exhausting, especially around the holiday season, but in my opinion the experience is always worth it. Of course, it can be a struggle to stay stylish on the go when you are juggling itineraries, chasing flights and hauling around days or weeks worth of luggage. Here are some of my tips to instantly up your chic factor when travelling with minimal effort.
Keep Your Clothes Fitted When Travelling
Yes, comfort is key when you are on the road, and there is no sacrificing that. However one of the easiest ways to look put together not messy is to make sure your clothes fit you well! I’m not saying wear a tailored dress or fresh pressed suit, just keep the silhouette neat and clean for a much more polished overall effect. That can mean a change as small as wearing leggings instead of sweat pants or a cozy cashmere sweater instead of an oversized baggy sweatshirt. You will be equally comfortable but look way more stylish!
Carry Functional Accessories in a Neutral Color Palette
You know that you need your ID, phone, and if you do the print version, a boarding pass handy. Keep the essentials together in a clutch you can easily whip out and tuck back in your tote bag to avoid the dreaded bag lady style fumbling around. Bonus points if you have a jacket or blazer that let’s you keep these items in your pocket. And if you only make one switch, trade in your ridiculous noodle pillow for an inflatable version. It’s impossible to look chic wearing one of those! I carry one that folds flat and can be easily inflated once I’m on board.
Dress Appropriately for the Destination
American tourists can be notoriously easy to spot, especially in the summer! Instgaram has changed some of that since everyone wants to get the perfect shot for the gram, and what you are wearing is half the battle. Putting a little effort into your OOTD not only helps make sure you get great pictures to document your trip, it can also help you more seamlessly blend into the style of the destination. When I was in France this summer I stuck to a a few simple slip dresses, comfortable walking sandals, and tailored shorts and blouses instead of denim cutoffs and t-shirts. My Paris wardrobe was wildly different than what I would pack for somewhere like Bermuda or Aruba, where I was all about pop colors, fun chunky jewelry and colorful scarves to accessorize. Plan your looks based on where you are going and what you have planned to blend in, look stylish, and get pics you will love!
Always Pack Classic Accessories
Sometimes unexpected things happen when traveling. Things spill and leave stains, the weather refuses to cooperate and your hair ends up a mess, the airline loses your luggage. You may have to pivot your outfit or pickup some cheap clothes on the way, but one way to always salvage your look is adding timeless, classic accessories. Things like dark sunnies, simple hair clips, and small stud earrings can easily take a basic outfit up a notch. Just do yourself a favor and keep them in your carry-on!
What are your essentials for staying stylish on the go? Let me know in the comments and shop some of my favorite travel accessories below!
How to Shop and Save with RebatesMe.com!
This post is sponsored by RebatesMe.com. All opinions are my own.
Fall is officially here and you know what that means! It’s the best season to shop! The change in temperatures gets me super excited about refreshing my wardrobe and a lot of retailers begin their markdowns which makes it all the more tempting. It’s a little bit early in the season if you are really trying to get the aggressive pre-holiday discounts, but I love to scout sites and save things to come back to later. But what if there was a way to get all the goods on your dream list and make money while doing so?
RebatesMe is one of the top cashback sites offering deals, discounts, and cash back services partnering with over 3,000 stores worldwide. Their stores cover all your shopping needs, from fashion and beauty to electronics and home décor. RebatesMe always has the most up-to-date deals and the best cashback offers so you can save money and earn cashback while you shop! As RebatesMe says, they Make Shopping Rewarding.
Some of my favorite shopping destinations are RebatesMe members, like Bloomingdales, Barney’s and Saks Off 5th, Laura Mercier, and Clarins! They even let you earn cash back on purchases at super high-end sites, like Jimmy Choo, La Mer, and Net-A-Porter. Sign up now for the largest store selection, highest cash back rates, and a sign-up bonus!
Check out some of the goods that are on my shopping list, all found at RebatesMe retailers!
Every Affordable Outfit You Need to Look Hot This Summer!
I don’t care what they say - it’s still summer and I’m still rolling with that vibe! I know a lot of the fashion world is getting excited about the change of season, but I’m still very much in summer mode. Maybe because it went by way too quickly, or because it’s still a balmy 90 degrees in LA, but whatever the reason, won’t be breaking out Fall clothes any time soon.
In the spirit of endless summer, I partnered with Pretty Little Thing to create an end of summer haul! PLT is one of my favorite websites for stylish, affordable fashion. They have a huge assortment of product and new drops on a regular, so stay tuned to their site and Insta for the hottest new arrivals.
I pulled a few of my looks for my Palm Springs trip from the site, and they were all hits! I love the slip dresses and pretty much need them in every color. Denim shorts are a summer essential, and I found the perfect pairs for a low-key lived in vibe. Paired with vintage inspired graphic tees, you’ll be set for casual summer days!
Plus whatever you need by way of accessories, they’ve got you covered! I love my clear mini bag and the black pearl one is stylish and sophisticated. They also have a great assortment of jewelry, hair clips, scaves, and anything else you’d need to perfectly finish your look!
Check out my looks below and let me know your faves! And make sure you get in all the summer activities you can before it’s too late!
Transition Time! Denim Under $100 That Will Go From Summer to Fall
Can you believe how fast this summer is flying by!
August means there are just a few more weeks until Fall, so it’s time to start thinking of ways to transition your wardrobe. Since denim is a pretty universal wardrobe staple, that is the place to start. The right denim pieces will take you from the end of summer through mid-Fall with ease. I’m not at all ready to think about Fall trends, but denim is something you can always refresh. If you are looking to make a few basic updates on a budget, here are my picks for the denim wardobe updates you need to make, all under $100!
Denim Skirts and Dresses Under $100
Skirts and dresses are a staple for me and can easily be styles for summer and Fall! I love the easy breezy a-line skirts and flowy dresses and they will look just as stylish with a tank as they will with booties and sweaters. Pinafore dresses are also super chic, and work well for Fall when layered with a sweater underneth or blazer on top.
Transitonal Jeans Under $100
My go- to silhouette these days is the mom jean. It’s comfy, fashionable and looks just as good with sneakers as it does with sexy heels! If you don’t have a pair in rotation, definitely add one to cart asap. I also love playing with printed jeans and fun silhouettes, like the dramatic flare leg ones from Free People below!
Denim Jackets Under $100
As the temps cool down you’ll need to make sure you can top of your look in style. A jean jacket is a classic finishing piece, but there are so many fun ways to spice them up. I love the stylish puff sleeve silhouette on this Revolve one, and the fun color of this lilac baby. If you are feeling adventurous, go for a fun festival inspired print. Or keep it classic with a simple blue number that will go with everything!
Remember Fall will be here way before you know it! What trends are you most excited about for the new season?
Quick and Easy Ways To Look Your Best this Summer!
The best season of the year is in full swing! Summer is full of long sunny days and nights that require easy, breezy fun pieces that keep you stylish and comfy. This summer I’ve been really into bold prints and patterns and easy footwear that gets me through morning noon and night. I try to avoid spending a lot on summer clothes, since I’m generally not a huge shopper, but I do like to refresh my look a bit to make things more fun. Here are a few of the trends I love this season and how I’m rocking them!
Printed Separates and Crop Tops
I can’t resist a bold print, and when it comes on a pair of billowy pants even better! The palm tree pattern is perfect for my new home here in LA! Plus since I’ve been trying to step up my workouts and diet I feel much more confident stepping out in a tiny crop top. This tie-front version bares a good amount of skin but still feels elegant, so you can def dress it up or down, but I suggest keeping the bottom high-waisted so you have a bit more coverage.
The Summer Power Dress
When I think power dress, what usually comes to mind is a structured silhouette in a bold color, probably paired with some killer heels. To get that vibe in a more relaxed, summery feel I prefer a statement making maxi dress. Options with a more classic silhouette like a wrap dress or with a more structured hem work nicely for the office or an evening out. And they go great with pretty much any shoe in your wardobe, from sandals, heels to dad sneakers!
The Granny Chic Sundress
It’s a guilty pleasure, but I love a hint of something granny-esque in my #OOTDs! I love dresses like this ditzy floral midi dress since it’s comfy and casual enough for brunch and rooftop hopping, with just a bit of old school elegance. The slightly boxy fit makes it effortless and cool, not sexy like a more body-skimming style. Plus it’s light and airy enough for even a scorching summer day!
Shop these looks and some of my other favorite pieces for the season below!
The Best Personal Shopping Hacks You Need Now!
Keeping my wardrobe updated is essential, but shopping really isn’t my thing. I avoid it as much as possible, finding new ways to style old favorites and finding ways to get new goodies without the pain of spending hours going in and out of stores. So when the Stylust team reached out to me for a partnership I was so excited to try it! Stylust is a service that puts a personal shopper in your pocket. It’s free to use and super easy! Say you are scrolling through Instagram or Pinterest and see something you want. Just text them the picture and they will source the item for you! You can also tag them in your Instagram pics if you see something in your feed and instantly want it.
They can find the exact item in minutes, let you know the price and if you approve it, place the order for you. Pretty sweet right? If the item turns out to be out of stock or out of budget, they can also find similar alternatives for you.
The first thing I knew I wanted was a chic yellow blazer, but I had no time to look in stores or browse the whole internet looking. I found an inspo pic on Instagram, and texted them a screenshot, and moments later I had options! I didn’t love the first round, so asked for other options, and eventually went with this mustard yellow double breasted baby from Asos. It arrived at my place a few days later, and it was simple as that.
Plus it doesn’t stop at clothing! Stylust also sourced a gorgeous burgundy storage ottoman for my new apartment. It took a little bit of back and forth before I found one in my price range that also had storage, but the final one could not be more perfect.
The Only Things You Need to Look Your Best This Summer!
We’re just about a week away from the unofficial start of summer! Memorial Day weekend is about to kick off and since it’s time to spend more time having fun in the sun, I wanted to share my quick and easy #OOTD formula to make getting ready a breeze! If you consider yourself a lazy dresser but want to play with separates instead of throwing on a tired sundress, stay tuned for one of my go to outfit combinations!
Even though my boyfriend despises them, I am absolutely obsessed with mom jeans! They are so comfy and chic, and give you an instant cool girl vibe. I rock them with everything from crop tops and bodysuits in spring and summer, and sweaters and blazers for cooler months. My favorite pairs are in medium wash denim and a pale blue that is perfect for summer. Add a feminine printed blouse and you are ready to go!
I’ve also been really into clear plastic totes! It sounds crazy but they are surprisngly chic. It also gives me a chance to get more of my pretty clutches into regular rotation since I stash anything I don’t want fully visible in one of them then pop it in the tote. Plus they are super affordable, with mine going for under $30 on Amazon!
Let me know your go-to pieces for summer and how you style them! And shop the story below!
3 Affordable Fashion Sites to Shop for Summer!
Guess what guys! I did my first podcast! Yes, yours truly made a guest appearance on the Starengu podcast this week. We discussed my favorite in flight beauty rituals and how I juggle my demanding day job with my side hustle as a blogger/influencer. And of course we chatted a bit about shopping and fashion. I love curating a wardrobe that is timeless and adaptable. However I do like to sprinkle in trendy pieces seasonally for quick easy updates.
Since it was so great discussing on the podcast, I decided to give you guys a bit more info on some of my favorite and most affordable fast fashion sites. Check out my top 4 below!
Shein
Shein is a classic Instagram fashion site with thousands of items at prices as low as $5! Sizing can be hit or miss, but I've found that with careful measurements and maybe a quick stop at your local tailor you can make a cheapie dress look like a million (ok fine maybe a hundred) bucks! I’ve shopped the site several times and am rarely disappointed.
Just don't even think about retuning, the cost and time it will take to ship isnt worth it. Sell on Poshmark or give to a friend and move on.
Also at checkout you'll have the option to pay a small fee to insure your package, which I suggest you do. If you don't take the insurance you are on your own in case the package gets lost or stolen. Its usually under $3 depending on the order total so a small price to pay for peace of mind.
Amazon
Amazon has a crazy wide selection of affordable, fashionable items and most are super cheap and include prime shipping. Just be prepared to browse patiently because the search results are extensive and navigation isn't the easiest. But I've found everything from stylish, sexy swimwear to dresses, and even the perfect clear plastic tote. If you are nervous about fit/sizing just turn on the free returns filter as you start browsing.
Showpo
I worked with Showpo earlier this year and they are a great fashion find! The Australian retailer sells a huge assortment of products at low prices and with fast shipping. Everything I got looked just as expected and is surprisingly great quality considering their low prices. Plus the shipping is pretty fast and returns are allowed, but for store credit only and shipping is on you, so shop carefully!
Let me know yor fave fast fashion sites, and don’t forget to tune into the Starengu podcast to hear the full interview!
