Casual Attire Archives - Page 2 of 2

The Return of the Wide-Leg Jean

July 15, 2020September 7, 2020by fashionablepetite1 Comment

Skinny jeans and high-waist pants have been the in-trend for a number of years now, but if you remember the 00’s, you remember the trend was low rise jeans and boot-cut jeans. After a long period of being dormant, wider leg are finally making returns to the mainstream!

I am giving you the scoop of how to style a wide-leg jean (in case you’ve forgotten, it’s been a while). I am also giving you my top ten choices to rock a boot-cut or flare jean.

First off, lets discuss the difference between flare and boot-cut jeans before we dive into how to style a wide-leg jean. A flare leg has a narrow knee and a wide-leg opening vs. a boot-cut jean that is not as tapered at the knee. A boot-cut is less dramatic (slightly more practical) and more of a 00’s jean and a flare is more classic and carries a 1970’s vibe. The biggest modern twist with both boot-cut and flares is that cropped styles are popular in both, meaning your have a lot of options in terms of styling and shoe selection. My outfit is a cropped retro flare look and I’ll be sharing it below.

Now let’s talk about styling!

For this week’s look, I paired my High Rise Wide-Leg Crop Jeans from Gap with a balloon sleeve top! I’ve said it before, but Gap knows jeans. They turn out a quality jean in a variety of styles and lengths and I return to their jeans over and over again. This Mock Neck Top from Banana Republic is almost identical to mine and is light and feminine. The Zala Wedge Platform Sandals are from Chinese Laundry and Kristin Cavallari is a shoe wizard. She’s a petite girl who makes short legs look fantastic. For me, platforms give me confidence and the wide-leg of the jean is offset by the height of the shoe. These jeans are high-waisted and they make me look taller than I am. Why? The wide leg is drawing the eye upward and creating a nice even symmetry with my top half. The high waist is also flattering and balances the wide style of the leg opening.

Here are my selections for both flare jeans and boot-cut jeans! All pairs have a petite option and include a couple cropped styles that are more popular than traditional jean lengths right now.

Styling a wide-leg jean is fun, flirty, and classic! I hope you feel inspired to try something new!

-xo

Darcy

Casual Attire, Fashion

10 Best Biker Shorts for Women

July 7, 2020September 7, 2020by fashionablepetiteLeave a Comment

In last week’s post, I discussed 3 ways to style women’s biker shorts. I have heard back from many of you and want to share the 10 best biker shorts for women that are out there!

Biker shorts really are a flattering and fun trend if you find the right pair. I suggest first figuring out what your goal is in wearing them. Are you looking for casual pair that can go from gym to errands, or are you looking to push the envelope and go more fashion forward? Once you determine where and when you’ll be wearing them, biker shorts will be a standard wardrobe piece in your closet. This top 10 list of biker shorts for women was compiled off of top reviews, price tags, and most importantly comfort & style!

Let the list begin!

First off are the All Eyes on Me Silver Grey Snake Bicycle Shorts by Mint Julep. If you want a fun short, these shorts are SO cute. They have a fun silver-snakeskin sheen and a high-rise waist. These shorts also have a longer inseam ensuring they don’t ride up as is typical of shorter length biker shorts.

2. Lululemon Wunder Train High-Rise Short – These shorts by Lululemon are some of the most technical on this list and are a really great option for being active. These training shorts come in over 11 colors (grey, olive, orchid, etc) and come in a 6″ option or an 8″. Their signature Everlux fabric is designed to be breathable and lightweight. I highly recommend these shorts for runners or gym goers.

3. BCG Women’s Essential Bike Shorts – Looking for the most economical choice for bike shorts? Look no further. These bike shorts from Academy Sports + Outdoors are $4.99. That’s right, FOUR DOLLARS & NINETY-NINE CENTS. They come in a ton of different colors and are not compression based, meaning you aren’t being restricted. Reviews say that the quality is great despite having such a low price point.

4. Spanx Faux Leather Bike Short – This list wouldn’t be complete without an inclusion from Spanx, the king of shape-wear. These faux leather shorts are perfect for dressing up a graphic t-shirt or adding some edge to an outfit. “Flat gut and great butt,” is the motto and the power waist-band is designed with flattery in mind. They are also designed to eliminate any muffin-top mishaps and are are oh so stretchy.

5. Onzie High Waist Bike Shorts – These shorts by Onzie come in a high waist style and fun patterns such as Leopard and Camo. The mid length thigh allows for the short to be styled in a number of ways and they are extra stretchy! Seeking versatility? This pair is ideal for you.

Halfway through the list!

6. J. Crew Biker Short in Signature Flex – These bad boys from J. Crew are fantastic when it comes to durability. They are designed with movement in mind and we all want a short that moves with us and not against. The Flex shorts are designed with weekend activities in mind and have a pocket in the back to stash chapstick or keys. The colors are limited to Navy and Black, but the standard colors are versatile and you have tons of options for styling.

7. Free People Seamless Rib Bike Shorts – Ladies, these Rib Shorts are FANTASTIC! They are the perfect pair to make bike shorts fashionable. They come in a number of sparkle styles (absolutely gorgeous), as well as a Peach and a White. These shorts are not workout friendly, but are perfect for lounge or going out. They also retail for $20.00. SCORE!

Finally heading into the top three!

8. Good American Icon Bike Short – If we want to talk about who made bike shorts fashionable, look no further than the Kardashians. These biker shorts by Khloe Kardashian’s company Good American are designed to be breathable and have a four-way stretch. They are high-waisted, hit mid thigh, and are compression based. Reviews also praise their lack of sheerness which is hugely important. If you are aiming to for one of the most flattering pairs, these shorts are high on the list!

9. Mint Julep Get Active Bicycle Shorts – I shared these shorts from the Mint Julep before, but they are fantastic! These bike shorts are a great length (no riding up here) and not restrictive. They are lightweight, durable, and have great stretch. Also, they are versatile and can be worn as gym wear or paired with a blazer for a dressier look.

To wrap up the list, at number 10 is the Everlane Perform Bike Short. Everlane always creates minimal and clean designs and these bike shorts are no exception. They come in Copper and Black and have an extra high-waist design. There are also minimal seams for added comfortable and sleekness. Additionally, these shorts have a built in pocket making it ideal for a phone. These shorts are also breathable and lightweight for hot summer temps.

Overall, I hope my list of 10 Best Biker Shorts for Women is helpful and useful as you hunt for that perfect pair of shorts!

-xo

Darcy

Casual Attire, Fashion

Styling Bike Shorts Three Ways

June 30, 2020August 16, 2020by fashionablepetiteLeave a Comment

Bike shorts are in! What was once only favored by avid bikers on long rides across tough terrain, is now in style. Honestly, fashion is funny that way and I love its inability to be predicted. I am going to share with you three ways to style them so that you can rock the next big trend!

I have been skeptical of styling bicycle shorts because I’ve worried that I’m too old to rock what the young one’s wear. As a number three creeps close to the front of my age, I’ve questioned my ability to look good in a biker short. Biker shorts are also spandex and that’s all that needs to be said about that. BUT, if I can do it, you can too!

For each of my outfits, I will be using the Get Active Bicycle Shorts in Navy from the Mint Julep. I will link all the products that I can again at the end of this post!

Now onto the first look!

For my first look, I am wearing this Coco Graphic Tee from Alex Erinn that is so soft and comfy. If you haven’t looked at Alex Erinn’s shop, I highly suggest you do! All of their pieces are fun, feminine, and well priced! Use Darcy15 at checkout to get 15% off of your order.

I paired my first look with slider Havana Sandals by Steve Madden. It looks like DSW is largely sold out of the sandals in black, but they do have a bright yellow color, as well as an animal print pattern that would be perfect with a black biker short. I tied the t-shirt for a more structured look and if you don’t a lot of extra shirt to knot, I recommend using a skinny hair tie in the same color as the shirt to knot it.

Next look!

For my second biker short look, I paired the shorts with my trusty Travel Tans from Steve Madden, a white halter tank, and a Banana Repubic Utility Shirt in Chambray Blue. This look isn’t overdone in part because the loose fitting nature of the top counters the tightness of the short. Opposites DO attract!

And now my final look!

For my third and final look, I paired the bike shorts with a white t-shirt, and blue blazer in corduroy from J. Crew. The corduroy tends be a seasonal item, so I am linking other options at the end! I paired this look with Tommy Hilfiger Lightz Sneakers in red, white, and blue. I love mixing the formal nature of the blazer with the laid back vibe of the biker short. Think structured movement up top vs. fitted on bottom.

While styling bicycle shorts in different ways can seem intimidating, but it’s actually quite easy (and fun!) Fashion is all about pushing our boundaries and if it’s not challenging you, it’s not changing you.

Below are most of the featured items or similar options for this post.

-xo

Darcy

Casual Attire, Fashion

Raise Your Pom Poms

June 16, 2020July 26, 2020by fashionablepetiteLeave a Comment

This week I’m talking all about poms! Not the pom-poms cheerleader shake around after a team scores a touchdown, but the fashion-y poms that add a little extra pizzazz to an outfit. In the summertime, a pom-pom is the perfect addition to a beach sarong or a summer bag.

This LOFT Pom Pom Staw Crossbody Bag is currently on rotation in my closet. I love the gold chain and it 100% screams summer. There are two things that I love about this bag.

First off, I really like is that the gold chain is thick. To me, that’s the sign of a well made item. The bag isn’t flimsy and it wont fall off if I put it on the back of a chair on a patio. Similarly, the base of the bag is light and doesn’t weigh heavy across my shoulders.

Secondly, I like the bag size. I am all about using an over-sized bag if you are headed to the beach or going on a big outing, but during the summer months I don’t want to lug around everything under the sun in a large tote. The Pom bag is an ideal size. It comfortably fits a small glasses case (and an inhaler if you fall into the super nerd category like me), a key chain sized wallet, and some chap-stick or a small tube of makeup or sunscreen.

I paired the pom bag with the Steve Madden Travel Tan sandals and Raw Hem Crop Straight Leg Jeans from Top Shop. The sandals are super popular right now. I love them because they add some edge to an outfit with the studs on the band, they are definitely a statement shoe. The Top Shop jeans do fit a bit snug and it is recommended to size up. I love Top Shop for petite jeans because they are of a good quality, fit well, and are not overly priced.

For the top, I’m wearing a braided top from Ann Taylor in a light mint color. The top is from the spring collection so I am linking near identical styles below. I paired this look with a Round Buckle Belt from LOFT. What’s your go-to jean?! Tell me in the comments below or email me!

I am including all of my outfit grabs below!

FEATURED IN MY OUTFIT

Below I am linking my favorite pom finds plus the Pom Bag from LOFT. Everything listed is under $100.00. Bright, colorful, and oh so summery!

POM-POM MUST HAVES

-xo

Darcy

Casual Attire, Fashion

Boho Maxi Dresses

June 2, 2020July 7, 2020by fashionablepetiteLeave a Comment

Flowy dresses with lots of movement are the best, especially in hot and heavy summer weather. I love dresses (that’s nothing new to anyone who has been reading my posts) and I would describe my style as feminine, leaning more towards classic looks. Bohemian style dresses are not something that I usually associate with my sense of style, but with the right dress, the sky is the limit. I am fully behind trying new styles and breaking into new trends, if it looks good. That’s how we grow and build our confidence. Clothing is a reflection of who you are and the way you dress mirrors how you feel about yourself. I’m here for the maxi dress and this is why.

This is the Shimmer Floral Flutter Sleeve Maxi Dress and I LOVE IT. I was skeptical when I purchased it because the shimmer and ruffles do add a lot to the dress. It actually fits really well and doesn’t overwhelm my frame. It actually works because the bodice is fitted and the sleeves ruffles are drawing your upward and outward (it’s all about illusions). The shoulder ruffles are also smaller and that makes a big difference when dressing a smaller build. There are also some ruffles along the torso and they hug the body which makes the dress flattering.

Let’s also talk about fabric for little bit.

The other takeaway when looking at maxi dresses, and all clothing for that matter, is fabric. If you are petite, DON’T GO TOO HEAVY. Pick a lighter fabric like a linen, a silk (talking about silk midi skirts again), or polyester. A lot of women don’t look at fabrics and this is a huge no-no. Fabric content is important because fabrics can impact the way you look just as much as the style of dress. This AT dress is 98% polyester and there is a reason a lot of clothing like workout wear is polyester based. It’s breathable and wicks way better than cotton. Polyester is also considerably lighter than cotton and won’t look as heavy or dense on a petite frame. I really do love cotton, but if you’re looking to dress up, cotton just isn’t the best fabric to wear. You’ll also sweat less in polyester, big bonus! I paired my look with my Steve Madden Karolyn Sandals and opted for a small crown braid to pair with the boho style of this maxi dress.

The other maxi dresses that I recommend are this Petite Strappy Ruched Maxi Dress from Banana and the Eliza J Pleated Chiffon Maxi Dress. The Ruched Maxi is light and flowy with a spaghetti strap top. I love that it is ruched because it’s flattering to the tummy area and covers an area that a lot of women are self conscious about. It’s gorgeous in the White Floral, as well as in basic black. The Eliza J Dress is made of chiffon, so it goes back to the airy feel of summer dresses. It’s cinched at the waist with a gold belt for a little sparkle and structure. This dress has a halter style top which is flattering on petite frames and the floral pattern is perfect for summer days out and about.

Have a wonderful start to summer!

-xo

Darcy

Casual Attire, Dressy Attire, Fashion

Midi Skirt Must Haves

May 19, 2020June 28, 2020by fashionablepetiteLeave a Comment

Do you remember in the late 90’s, when slinky slip dresses and skirts were one of the “it girl” must haves? If you’re old enough to remember that era, close your eyes and picture Sarah Michelle Gellar and her perfectly placed butterfly clips, spaghetti strap top, silk skirt, and you can almost smell the roll-on glitter. Not every 1990’s trend needs to make a come back (I’m looking at you chunky highlights and puka shell necklaces), but I am excited that the slip look is making a comeback in a new and improved way in 2020. Here’s why the slip skirt and the midi skirt are closet must haves.

Slips skirts are not bulky – for a petite frame, that’s ideal! There are a lot of trends that overpower smaller builds and midi skirts in general are not one of them. They give smaller gals the illusion of length vs. a maxi dress that can make you appear shorter because it goes all the way to the ground. Don’t get me wrong I love a good maxi and you’ll see me in them all summer long! Slip skirts also give texture and shine to an outfit that otherwise would fall into a more basic category. That also means slip skirts are ideal for switching from day to night wear and you can style them in a variety of ways. I’m going to walk you through how to style a midi skirt in a variety of ways using my new and favorite Bea Skirt from Reformation. They sadly sold out of it recently because of Reformation’s huge sale last week, but they do have the Bea Skirt in Cappuchino at Shop Bob in regular sizes 4-10. J. Crew has a Pull-on Slip Skirt that comes in a variety of colors ranging in Navy, Olive, Red Rock, and Neon Fuchsia. Some of the brighter colors only have a few sizes left, but not to worry, I am linking other options!

Nordstrom Rack has the Elodie Wrap Skirt in Leopard (only small sizes left!) and Apple Green. I’m really loving the bright electric greens for summer! Nordstrom Rack also has this adorable and silky midi skirt from HYFVE. It’s a wrap style which I find flattering on so many different body types and it comes in both Mustard and Copper. Onto my looks!

My first look is my midi skirt, balloon sweater, and nude pointed toe heels in Shel Paten from BCBG. I think people overthink the tuck on the sweater. Don’t tuck it in all the way around, just tuck the front piece in loosely. This creates the look of “effortless cool” where you want to look pulled together, but still relaxed. I would recommend the Ann Taylor Petite Ribbed Balloon Sleeve Sweater for sweaters. It’s a super comfortable sweater that wont leave you feeling cold in the chiller months.

My second look is my midi skirt paired with a button down tunic top in black and the same nude heels. I did the same front tuck that I did with the balloon sweater. Keep it loose and not overly structured. The tunic is from LOFT and I love that they carry the same style in a variety of colors throughout the year. Since the black is more of a winter color, they only have the tunic in white, but I’m sure they will change the colors in the coming months!

My third look is my midi skirt paired a black ribbed tank top from Banana Republic, open-toe heels in black from Steve Madden, and a black & gold chained purse from BCBG. By pairing the fitted tank with the skirt, I have more structure on top vs. the flowy movement of the skirt on bottom. This is one of my fav date outfits (when we could leave the house, way back when). I couldn’t find an identical match to my mini purse, but Zara is one of my go-to places for accessories and I love their Animal Embossed Crossbody Box Bag.

My last look is my midi skirt with a basic V-neck T-shirt from Banana Republic and tennis shoes from Tommy Hilfiger. I tied my shirt into a side-knot to make the shirt look more chic and form fitting. I can throw a jean jacket on top of this look and be ready to run errands around town, see family for a casual get together, or hit the brewery with my hubby!

I would be happy to explain more about different shirt knot ties and how to make your basic T-shirt look super cute and stylish! As always, comment below or ask my questions about style, how to’s, and anything else that’s on your mind!

-xo

Darcy

Casual Attire, Fashion

Soft and Cozy Lounge Wear

May 2, 2020June 28, 2020by fashionablepetiteLeave a Comment

Who doesn’t love a sweater you can curl up in, or ultra-soft sweat pants? During my college years, I worked the register at Gap in what was then, Gap Body. I restocked panties, lounge wear, and fitted women for bras. I saw some wild and crazy things over the years, but I learned a lot about styles and fabrics.

It was here that I was introduced to modal. Modal is a fabric made from Beech trees that’s blended with cotton. It is SO soft and it has been one of my great loves for many, many years. Every year I buy at least one pair of modal joggers from Gap’s Pure Body Collection. Once you go modal, you won’t go back! You seriously wont be disappointed. Gap also sells T-shirts in modal, as well as bras, and panties. It looks like Gap is currently sold out on a lot of their lounge/sleep wear, but they do have modal leggings on sale for $30.00.

Lou & Grey Sweatpants from Loft are also one of my must haves. They are cute and comfy, need I say more? I purchased their Signature Softblend Sweatpants for $69.50 in Deep Lavender and they are seriously SO very soft. Lou & Grey is another brand that I always turn to for quality and comfort. I’m a fan of Banana Republic’s basic linen t-shirts because they are available in petite sizes and they are great for a casual day in or out. If I’m out running errands, I’ll add a ball cap. The hat featured in the photo was a purchase I made in Madrid a few years ago and it’s distressed look works well for creating a relaxed look. A similar hat is the Canvas Dad Cap by Hat Attack. It’s wide brim gives it a casual feel that screams weekend vibes.

These Athleta Studio Joggers are great because they are a relaxed fit (we doesn’t like a good Aladdin pant?) and they are a great lounge pant to wear on the weekend or after a long day in a skirt and heels. They retail for $79.00. I’ve seen a lot of women use them while pregnant and as a postpartum pant. Pair them with a slider sandal, some oversized sunglasses, and you have a cute outfit made for brunching on a patio. Below, I paired the joggers with an oversized hooded sherpa sweater in white and the sweater makes the outfit oh so cozy!

Curl up with a book, work on a puzzle, or binge a good TV series (what are you watching during the pandemic? I am rewatching Downtown Abbey from the beginning – I still love sweet Matthew all these years later). Lounge in style and reach out with your questions & comments!

-xo

Darcy

Casual Attire, Fashion

Gingham galore!

May 2, 2020June 28, 2020by fashionablepetiteLeave a Comment

Gingham is in and I don’t know about you, but I’m loving it! It’s classy, fun, and always timeless. You can wear it on a shoe, a scarf, dresses, and hair accessories. Here are a few of my favorite gingham picks that I’ve found recently.

This dress from Ann Taylor is officially back in stock!

BUT an equally cute option is the Ann Taylor Gingham Overlay Pleated Flare Dress.

It has a subtle gingham pattern and the pleated front gives it a classic look. If you’re looking to be a bit more bold, they also carry the Ann Taylor Petite Gingham Midi Dress in bright purple verbena.

It comes to mid calf and both are available in petite and regular sizes. Both dresses are light and will be great for warm weather! If you’re digging the buttoned look on the front of my dress, check out the Ann Taylor Petite Cotton Linen Button Flare Dress in bright orange vermillion kiss. It is not gingham, but it’s a similar style with a v-neck front and short sleeve.

The dress has a relaxed feel with a button down front and a belted waist. It has a v-neck front and capped sleeves. It’s light for the warmer months and hits me about at knee level. I give it an 8/10 for comfort. I paired it with a top knot headband in black and strapped espadrille wedges from Loft (also – peep my parent’s front porch in the second image). The height is not too tall, making it great for everyday wear. Viscata has a similar pair in their Canet Linen Espadrille. Viscata is a Madrid based shoes company that is a favorite of Kate Middleton and I love the timelessness look of their espadrilles. Madewell has a similar dress to the Ann Taylor in the Gingham Tie-Front Swing Dress. Madewell also has a selection of gingham shorts and I am currently putting in an order for their Linen Pleated Shorts in the melange check earthen sand. Perfect for summer time weather!

I also recently purchased a Gingham headband from Ann Taylor and it is no longer in stock, but a great substitute is from Alice and Wonder for $18.00. Top knot headbands are great because you can create a super flirty and fun outfit, or you can add it to a basic t-shirt and jeans for a pop of fashion. Don’t be afraid to wear a pattern! A pattern doesn’t have to be loud or bold, a pattern like gingham is simple and can be worn in a variety of ways. As always, reach out to me with your questions or comments.

xo-

Darcy

Casual Attire, Fashion

What is Athleisure-wear?

May 2, 2020August 26, 2020by fashionablepetiteLeave a Comment

Working out doesn’t mean you can’t look cute or stylish. “Athleisure wear” is dedicated to clothing that can be worn to the gym AND running around town. The best of both worlds is what makes athleisure wear appealing and practical.

I have been living in joggers throughout quarantine. They are comfy, versatile, and you look so much better going out vs. wearing traditional sweats. The goal is to look like you tried at least at little bit, right? I love a black jogger because they can go with anything and as someone who runs a lot, I find that they are breathable and they don’t rub or restrict.

These Joggers from Gap are one of my favorites and they are currently on sale for $42.00. They can easily go from the gym, to the grocery store, to picking up kids, to a casual family dinner out. Pair it with a workout top or a basic t-shirt, jean jacket, or vest, and you have a relaxed and comfortable on-the-go outfit. I have also been loving black with pops of gold and this vest with gold detailing is one of my staple items at the moment. I purchased this J. Crew quilted vest last year at Nordstrom and it’s an awesome layering piece. If you’re new to layering pieces and layer sounds intimidating, this vest is a great way to start. Go long sleeve, short sleeve, or go hooded, or pair with a warm plaid. It’s currently not available in black, but it is in stock in Navy. I have linked it Here.

If you’re looking to go local, Colorado Threads should definitely be on your list. They sell a wide variety of yoga pants, leggings, sports bras, and tops. I received these Colorado Leggings as a Christmas present and I love how stretchy and comfortable they are. They have a variety of non Colorado themed apparel and I am loving some of their patterns, like this Marble Top and the Matching Bottoms. I am solidly a small in their leggings and will be purchasing more athleisure wear from them in the future.

*Tip for short girls* If leggings end up being too long on you, just tuck up the extra leg material under after you put them on. When you tuck under (not over) you wont see the extra material.

These Leggings that I purchased at SoulCycle are some of the favorite leggings that I have ever owned. They retail for $88.00. I often struggle with the dreaded waist band slip when I workout and I hate having to constantly adjust the band. These SoulCycle leggings don’t budge. They are thicker than a typical legging because they are made with less spandex vs. polyester and nylon and I find that it makes a huge difference. I wouldn’t use them as a yoga legging, but for weight lifting and cardio they are terrific. They stay in place and I don’t get any friction burn. Because they are thicker, they are not sheer (yay!) and I can do as many squats as I want without worrying about them being opaque. They also are glittery and incredibly fun to wear.

*My advice, especially if you’re new to working out, invest in some cute gym outfits! I hear a lot of women say, “oh, I will buy those cute leggings when I get to my goal.” My response, “why wait?” You can still feel good and look good while chasing that goal. When you enjoy what you workout in, you’re genuinely motivated to getting moving. Set aside the oversized T-shirt and instead find a workout top with cute back. You don’t have to achieve a certain goal to buy a nice pair of leggings. Invest in yourself now, not later. *

Want to see more or know more about staying fit (especially in these particularly challenging times), drop me a comment or an email.

Stay safe, sane, and healthy my beauties!

-xo

Casual Attire, Fashion

Cool Culottes

May 2, 2020June 28, 2020by fashionablepetiteLeave a Comment

Let’s talk about denim! Wide leg jeans are in and there are so many ways you can wear them.

I love a good wide leg jean. They are flattering for petite gals over skinny jeans because they give the illusion of length, which is excellent if you have a smaller frame. I’m happy to see that they’re making a come back! Culottes immediately spark a 1970’s vibe and I love mixing retro fashion with modern.

I’ve been on the hunt for the perfect pair of denim culottes and I found this pair of high rise culottes from Gap and they are seriously SO comfortable. They normally retail for $80.00 and are currently on sale for $32.00. What a steal! If you’re looking for a more distressed look, Banana Republic has a pair that retails for $98.00 and is on sale for $39.00. Wide leg cropped pants are also versatile and can be worn in an infinite number of ways. I added a pair of Gola Tennis Sneakers from J. Crew. The denim jacket is also a Gap find from many years ago and investing in a jean jacket should be a staple of every wardrobe. Pair it with a Basic T Shirt and bam, you have a go to outfit that is both basic and timeless.

You can also pair a wide leg crop pant with a Bootie (I love a cognac color) and a tie top. This outfit is great for spring in Colorado because it’s not too heavy and is perfect for weather is the high 50s or low 60s. Tie tops can run big and even though I’m traditionally a small, I usually go for an extra small with tie front tops. Madewell has a white tie front shirt that retails for 79.50 and is currently 40% off.

Wide leg pants also look great with a collared shirt or a blazer. The Essential Shirt at Ann Taylor comes in both regular and petite. It comes in a variety of colors and the shirt featured in the photo was a gingham version from Ann Taylor’s winter collection. The mules are Steve Madden mules in a faux leather. A similar style is this Saddle Colored Mule by Matisse Camelot at Nordstrom. If you want to create a dressier look, I added the corduroy Parke blazer from J. Crew and an animal print flat for a pop of pattern. It looks like the corduroy blazer fabric is sold out, but they still have the Parke Blazer in linen in a variety of colors.

Stay classy, stay vintage, stay cool.

-xo

Darcy