Outfits Not Just Clothes

I've said it before and I'm saying it again here. When in doubt, jumpsuit it out! In these dog days of summer who doesn't long for that perfect, throw-it-on-and-go piece that requires next-to-no thought, holds up against whatever the day throws at you, and makes a subtle style statement.  Not only does she look cool she mothers too!   jumpsuit- Universal Standard , sunnies- Versace , sneakers- Vans  This jumpsuit for sure delivers on the both the style and functionality fronts. It's an unexpected statement piece, and unlike other knit black jumpsuits that you see so often on these streets ( here & here ), this one-piece has structure and definition. The stiffer silhouette, with snaps, a collar, and pockets provide a lean fit and gives this look a sense of utilitarian authority. I've worn it out and about, as well as to work, and for Mom-ing duties. 

What can I say friends? It's summer, it's hot, it's sticky, I'm probably spending too much time in the sun and outfitting can be exhausting, especially when hitting up the river trail, a brewery, and then Target--typical Saturday agenda here lately. Here are some more simple separates that are doing the work. 👷  Now for a bag switch! Actions shots ahead.... tank- T-Shirt Wholesaler , shorts- Levi's , hat- Gap , sunnies- Diff Eyewear , necklace- Mejuri , bag- Everlane , sandals-Target(more options here ) Again, is this a LOOK 👀to turn heads? No, it's a tank top and jorts. But the jewelry, hat, bag, and sunglasses elevate these separates if not into an outfit per se, at least into a summer fun vibe uniform. 

Look closely, yep those are mini foxes!  shirt- Old Navy , shift-Uniqlo(similar here ), loafers-Zara(similar here ), necklace-Gifted(similar here from Etsy )  Yes, I wore this same shirt in last Tuesday's OOTD post here . For this outfit I layered it under my go-to navy shift from Uniqlo for a school-uniform inspired look! I love calling back to school days in the fall. Of course, one could argue that there's an age limit on plaid jumpers and penny loafers. The key is to not take the inspiration literally. I'd look pretty ridic sporting a white polo, plaid pleated skirt and burgundy varsity cardigan all in one look as a 30-something adult woman. But, here the neutral dress and novelty-printed fox shirt is a fun reference to my uniform days of old without being costumey/gimmicky. 

blazer- Gap (similar here ), shirt-Anthropologie(similar here ), pants-Zara(similar here ), loafers- Sole Society , ring- Le Tote I've been rocking this rainy-day blouse a lot here this spring, seen here , and  here . And it's the perfect print for this season, especially since it's been a rather damp one. Regardless of the weather-appropriateness of this pattern, the overall ensemble is really yet ANOTHER take on my style M.O. I'm all about a cropped trouser, pattern shirt, and blazer. It's by "uniform" for years and it works not only aesthetically, but functionally for my life. This is a great outfit-concept for work, and it can also go more casual or dressy depending on the pieces that makeup the look.  What's your stylish uniform?