March 9th, 2010
Update the Casual Chic “Going Out” Look for Spring!
A friend recently asked me for some ideas on how to revive the “going out uniform” consisting of jeans, a black top, and strappy sandals. While I would definitely recommend the addition of a few dresses into your wardrobe (see previous post on dresses), nothing beats the comfort and style of a great pair of jeans for a girl’s night out or a Saturday night date.
Many of us can’t afford to (or want to) spend $200 on a new pair of jeans, but a fresh pair of denim will definitely aide in updating the look. There are many new cuts available, and one of the most popular is the “Boyfriend.” I really like the playfulness of a boyfriend cut, and the way the rolled up cuff showcases your shoes. But I don’t like how many of them take away from a woman’s shape. With that in mind, I found the perfect pair of jeans that aren’t too slouchy and compliment almost any figure! The jeans shown in all of the looks are the “Easy Straight Patched Jeans” from The Gap. Super cute, and flattering, and only $79.50. I’ve created three great looks based around these jeans:
Look #1: The Grecian Goddess
Victoria’s Secret One Shoulder Tank Top: I love the asymmetrical trend. It’s a sexy silhouette and allows for an elegant departure from the mounds of cleavage we’re so accustomed to seeing in Southern California. A women’s shoulders are so seductive and the look is very sophisticated. This top is from Victoria’s Secret and features a built in bra as well, and it’s a “Level 2″ bra which means it actually will support the naturally blessed AND keep the headlights in check. This top is on sale right now for $29.50 at Victoriassecret.com, and is available in a variety of colors. I’ve shown it in “Ultra Indigo” which is gorgeous, and judging by all the blue dresses at this year’s Oscars, blue might very well be the new black.
Accessories: The shoes are from BCBG and were on sale at Nordstrom.com but are only available in limited sizing. However, Marshall’s has a lot of shoes, featuring the caged trend, for less then $50 (that retailed for much more.) The bangles and earrings from Forever 21 complete the look, and are available for less then $15 for both! You can shop Forever 21’s jewelry online here.
Look #2: Jewel Toned or Bright-Colored Tops
As I’ve mentioned in previous posts, color is the way to go for any Spring update! This top from Fredflare.com is a gorgeous shade of orange and I like the short cap sleeves. It’s work appropriate and the light knit is great for Spring. There are lots of tops like this available in the stores right now for great prices.
The Perfect Khaki Blazer Since the nights are still chilly, a great blazer is a wonderful addition. This khaki blazer from The Gap is nicely fitted and will coordinate well with these outfits as well as existing attire. It’s a great wardrobe staple that will take you from day to night. Get it online or in the store for $88.00.
Accessories
The jewelry, is once again, all from Forever 21. Now to even better part: shoes! I love Michael by Michael Kors shoes! They are probably my favorite shoe brand that aren’t over-the-top expensive, but feel like they are. I own several pairs of “Michael” shoes and all of them are sexy AND comfortable. Who doesn’t like a killer heel that doesn’t kill? Shown here in Teal, the Michael Kors Gansevoort Platform Sandal will have you pounding the pavement or the dance floor in high style. These shoes are $165 and well worth the investment. Click here to buy online at Nordstrom.com or for store pick-up.(Sometimes his shoes end up at Marshalls, TJ Maxx, and Loemann’s so it’s worth checking out. Last year’s styles were very similar and very much still in style.)
Look #3: Flutter Sleeves/Ruffles Nothing signals the arrival of Spring more then a butterfly, and this top looks just like one. Flutter sleeves are a big trend for Spring 2010. This one incorporates the trend in a subtle way, and is feminine without being fussy. A top like this can be found for under $30 at Forever 21. This particular top is sold out, but I found something similar that I really like. Click here to view and shop F21’s tops. I love ordering from F21 online, because if it doesn’t fit or you don’t like it, you can return to the store for credit.
Accessories Of course the jewelry is all from Forever 21. I’ve also found a lot of higher quality costume jewelry at Macy’s (on sale) and Loemann’s. There are some great deals to be found in this economy so be sure to check out the accessories next time you’re in these stores. As for the shoes, If you want a more versatile shoe that can be worn to work, I recommend these Michael by Michael Kors platform pumps. The “Pressley” platform is available at Nordstrom or your nearest Michael Kors store for $140. There are a lot of great shoes in the collection, so check them out.
