Outfits Not Just Clothes

cardi- Old Navy , shirt-Violeta(similar here ), joggers-Anthropologie(similar here ), flats-Dr. Scholls Shoes(similar here ), jewelry-Jewel Mint(available here and similar here via Poshmark ) Keeping things casual, yet with a side of drama thanks to the length and sweep of this "nursing" cardigan and long-tailed button-down tunic. I love the sweep and drape created with the pairing of these two relatively simple pieces. Printed joggers and polka-dot flats keep it from being too minimalist. Not that's there's anything wrong with minimalism, but a navy legging would  have been too simple, while jeans would have been too heavy. 

bomber-similar from Violeta here ), shirt-Mango(more gingham options here ), pants-Gap Maternity, boots- Sam Edelman via Nordstrom , necklace-similar options here from Nordstrom For this first day of spring my OOTD is all about the mix of gingham with floral. In my mind, prints like checks, stripes, polka dots, and gingham are really neutrals, especially when rendered in basic shades like black and white, hence they can be easily paired with more busy/elaborate prints, like these darkly-hued tropical blooms. Of course, here in Pittsburgh it may be officially spring, but we're actually in the transitional season of " sprinter " where it's spring, but still feels wintery. So why, the patterns in this outfit speak to the spring, the covered up layers and waterproof boots make it very functional for the forecast. And yes, I did wear my Columbia Sportswear Coat OVER this ensemble because, it's chilly out! 

Yesterday I featured an "direct from the runway" outfit inspiration. Today's look was inspired by a more minimalist image from the online retailer-- Violeta's online shopping photos: Violeta This pic features thier textured baggy trousers, and I just happen to have very similar pair... shirt-Gap(similar here ), trousers- Zara , slides-Old Navy(similar here ) Like in yesterday's OOTD I mimicked the shoes and pants then worked my way up. Today's inspiration is a much more "spot on" replica, as this breezy blouse not only captures the essence of the inspo photo, but shares it's color and silhouette. Besides how well or not my outfit matches Violeta's, this is a really subtle, yet chic midweek office outfit, no? For a day with no meetings a drapey drawstring trouser and pinstriped blouse are a no-brainer for work! 

tunic-Wild Fang(similar here ), vest/pants-Mango(similar here and here ), loafers- G.H. Bass , necklace-J.Crew Factory(similar here ) I've always had a soft spot for "fancy pants" as seen here , here , and here . This brocade pair is the latest addition to my collection. I was going for a long n' lean silhouette with the button-down tunic and oversize sweater vest, which are semi-casual and offered a nice contrast to the fancy bottoms. Wearing the vibrant necklace OVER the shirt works as a fem take on a bow tie, don't you agree? Again, it's about striking a balance between formal/casual, cropped/long, comfortable/fitted, and feminine/androgynous. 

A properly deployed belt can make all the difference when wearing an outfit, not just clothes. And, while most times my belt game is en flique(that's the French spelling on "on fleek"), I went back and for with this ensemble... first up the belted version: I like how the belt gives shape to this looser silhouette, but is it too much? And/or is it kind of unflattering?  Now unbelted: These is a bit more casual, but still has impact. Again, I'm wondering which is the more flattering/fetching version?  Detail Shots: Which do you prefer? Belted Unbelted vest-Violeta(similar here ), shirt /bracelets(similar here )/belt(similar here )- Banana Republic Factory , culottes-J.Crew(similar here ), loafers-Sole Society(similar here ), necklace-Le Tote(similar here ),  I'm going back and forth on which version of this outfit I like best. I rocked both during my day at work. Kept things belted fo...