Denim on Denim

From J. Lo to Rihanna to Ciara, a hot new casual trend has been denim on denim. Back in the day we might have considered it overkill, too "matchy-matchy", but today it's considered cool and stylish. A casual denim shirt and skirt, jeans with a denim shirt or even the shirt with cutoffs...I've seen them all worn and they always look great, especially when accentuated with a pop of color or even a nude shoe. Even mixed washes are encouraged: dark with light, medium with slightly distressed. It's all celebrated and the result is a non-fussy, casual chic. Who doesn't love that??

What's also great is that anyone can do it! Doesn't matter your size or body type. This trend is one for all and all for one. Just find the top/bottom that works for you and dive in.

I tried the look on for size, beginning with a great shirtdress from JLuxe Label (www.jluxelabel.com), an online boutique I came across a few years ago. I've worn it as a dress with gladiator sandals, even as a cover-up at the beach, but this time I chose to put it with a pair of old jeans converted into long shorts (great way to get more wear from your fave pair). 

Added an old statement beaded necklace found in a Miami gift shop and completed the look with a pair of rust colored fringe (another big trend) heeled sandals from Charlotte Russe (www.charlotterusse.com). My old faithful Kenneth Cole Reaction aviator sunnies are never far away, whose gold-tone frames subtly pick up the hardware on the olive green studded bag from Laila Rowe, selected to add a bit of contrast. This piece is a more affordable take on those offered by Michael Kors and Valentino. With 2 kids in college, splurging on one of their pieces really isn't an option:) Once again, stacked bangles add a boho flair. Add a quick tousle to the already wild and big hair and I feel like I'm ready for an afternoon out with the girls. Lunch, anyone?

Here are a few examples of celebs rocking the trend.

Style is For Everyone
Plus/curvy figures can get in on the style trend too. Check out a few fellow bloggers and their take on the look.

http://www.kellyaugustine.com/2016/09/off-the-shoulder-denim.html

http://curvenvy.com/page/26/

http://www.xpressiories.com/2014/09/denim-work_23.html

Boho Vibes On A Dime

After a seemingly endless hiatus, the sun finally has returned!! Gone are the overcast cloudy skies and relentless rain showers. Hello, sunnies and sandals! Time to get out and enjoy the onset and return of glorious summer weather. I am more than happy to do so:)

First outfit of the long-awaited season begins with a sleeveless cotton spandex crop top from one of my fave consignment shops, Plato's Closet (www.platosclosetlaurel.com). It was truly a great $4 find and can go with so many other bottoms, but I chose to rock it with a super comfy maxi skirt found at a local flea market for $10. Ivory vintage-looking sunnies, gold-tone "bamboo" hoop earrings, layered wood bracelets (all finds at my local beauty supply store!) and my fave espadrille wedges complete the ensemble.

The crown braid, a great youthful look for summer, topped it all off. It can be done on a variety of hair types and ethnicities and, with a bit of practice, is relatively easy to achieve.

The overall effect is casual, comfy and chic. Entire ensemble cost under $50! Who says you have to spend lots of cash to be fashionable? Certainly not me:)

You can get in on the frugal deals too! To find a Plato's Closet near you, just go to www.platoscloset.com and check your local listings.

"Here comes the sun..." Enjoy the season and happy shopping! Wear sunblock and spend wisely;)

Cool Weather Chic

"April showers bring May flowers". Well, it seems that this May those April showers have just brought along even more showers and cool temps. It's been raining and overcast almost every day for the last 3 weeks! Where is the sun??!!  Ok, so maybe it's too soon to break out those cute summery 'fits, but that doesn't mean one has to sacrifice style. In fact, it's a prime opportunity to get more use out of those fabulous capes, sweaters and wraps every fashionista loves.

Featured here, is a heather gray cowl neck cape from one of my faves, iT Factor Boutique (www.loveitfactorboutique.com). To switch things up a bit though, I chose to wear it as a boatneck. A neutral colored belt was added for a subtle contrast,  as well as definition. Of course, my favorite distressed skinny jeans are never too far away, and add a bit of comfort to the vibe.  The nude open-toe laceup over-the-knee boots, on the other hand, bring an element of "funky". The overall effect is a casual comfort chic, perfect for an afternoon out.