70's Summer Fashion Series - Recap

This past summer, I was offered an opportunity to write a three-part fashion series for the Greater Des Moines Young Professionals Connection (YPC).  For this fashion series, I focused on this season's emphasis on 70's trends.  With each installment, I featured a trend that was popular in the 1970’s and described how you can wear that trend for various occasions today.  For the first installment, I highlighted the bohemian trend that is already quite popular today. For the second installment, I opined on the influence of global and ethnic prints during the 1970’s.  Lastly, I discussed the iconic wrap dress and how it can be worn all-year long.  Below are excerpts from each installment.  To read the full blog posts on the YPC website, click on the links below.

Bohemian

As the ‘60s faded, the hippie culture from that decade continued into the early ‘70s. In modern usage, the word “bohemian” refers to someone who lives an unconventional, usually artistic life.  Today, the style term “boho chic” represents a fashion style that draws inspiration from bohemian and hippie cultures of the ‘60s and ‘70s.  Two easy ways to emulate the bohemian style today is to invest in a peasant blouse and a boho dress.  Peasant blouses are available at numerous retailers and are flattering for most body types. Boho dresses can come in a variety of prints, lengths and cuts that can work for all ages.  Below I’ve displayed two outfits transitioning a peasant blouse from work to weekend, as well transitioning a boho dress from work to weekend. Click here to read the full blog post.

Outfit #1: Shirt: Kohl's (Lauren Conrad Collection)// Pants: Express// Belt: MintL.A. Boutique// Shoes: Payless//      Jewelry: Gift
Outfit #2: Shirt: Kohl's // Jeans: BCBGeneration // Purse: Target // Shoes: Kohl's
Outfit #3: Dress: Target (Old) // Blazer: Kohl's (Lauren Conrad Collection)// Shoes: Payless// Belt: Old
Outfit #4: Dress: Target (Old)// Vest: Dillard's// Shoes: Payless

Global & Ethnic Prints

During the ‘70s, easier access to traveling abroad allowed cultures from other regions of the world to have influences on the fashion industry.  Afghan coats from Afghanistan became a staple for the hippie counterculture during the early ‘70s.  Fashion designers interpreted caftans from Morocco into casual women’s gowns for entertaining at home.  The paisley print, originally from Persian descent and imported from India, became mainstream in women’s and men’s fashion along with interior design patterns.  Global and ethnic influences came pouring in which inspired designers to create bold and colorful prints during the decade.  Colors and prints during the ‘70s are ranged from bold and saturated hues to subdued earthy tones.  For this installment, I’ve chosen four outfits displaying global-inspired prints and how to wear them for the workplace and the weekend or evening.  Click here to read the full blog post.

Outfit #1: Shirt: JCPenny// Pants: BCBG Max Azria// Shoes: Wet Seal (old)// Belt: TJMaxx (old)// Bracelet: World Market// Ring: Vintage (Grandma's)
Outfit #2: Shirt: JCPenny // Skirt: BCBG Max Azria // Shoes: Payless // Purse; TJMaxx (Nine West) // Bracelets: World Market & Craft Fairs // Earrings: Express// Necklace: DryGoods
Outfit #3: Pants: Target // Shirt: Express // Vest: Express // Bracelet: Express // Earrings: Old // Shoes: JCPenny
Outfit #4: Pants: Target // Shirt: Target // Jewelry: Old // Shoes: Target

The Wrap Dress

The wrap dress was introduced in 1974 by designer Diane Von Furstenberg. When explaining its instant appeal, she stated, “The wrap dress is the most traditional form of dressing: It’s like a robe, a kimono, a toga.  It doesn’t have buttons or zippers.  What made it different was that it was jersey; it made every woman look like a feline.  And that’s how it happened….”¹ The wrap dress was an unprecedented success – it was sexy, simple, packable, and looked good on women of all shapes and sizes.  The dress itself soon symbolized power and independence for an entire generation of women.² For this installment, I’ve chosen three outfits utilizing a wrap dress and displaying how to wear it for the workplace, for the weekend, and how you can transition it into the fall season. Click here to read the full blog post.

Outfit #1: Dress; JCPenny // Purse: JCPenny // Shoes: Kohl's // Bracelet: Gift // Earrings: Old
Outfit #2: Dress: JCPenny // Jacket: Abercrombie&Fitch (Old) // Shoes: Target // Rings: Old Navy
Outfit #3: Dress: JCPenny // Cardigan, Tights, Shoes: Target // Jewelry: Old Navy

Sources: ¹Reed, Paula (2012), Fifty Fashion Looks That Changed the 1970’s, Conran Octopus Ltd 

²DVF website (2015), http://www.dvf.com/about-diane-von-furstenberg.html

What trend is your favorite from the 1970’s?  How would you wear it today?

Outfit Formula: Peasant Blouse + Jeans

If you haven’t hopped on board the 70’s train this season, it’s time to be picked up!  The 1970’s has been a big influence in fashion this season ranging from romantic bohemian to suede to flare jeans.  One easy way to sport the 1970’s is to wear a peasant blouse with jeans for a relaxed carefree look.  Peasant blouses today are available practically everywhere and can be comprised of subtle or vibrant prints, embroidery, or made out of gauze or sheer fabrics.  Below are three simple outfits containing the easy outfit formula of peasant blouse + jeans.

Outfit #1 – White & Blue Peasant Blouse + Flare Jeans

This first outfit embodies a relaxed 70’s silhouette – billowy top and light washed flare jeans. For this outfit, the blouse needs to be tucked in the jeans to define a waist line and to balance out the width of the flare jeans.  I layered on a cognac faux leather jacket for a structured piece and cognac wedges to carry on the 70’s look.  I finished with a turquoise jewelry.  This outfit would be great for the weekend or strolling at a farmers market.

Shirt; Kohl's (Lauren Conrad Collection) // Jeans: BCBGeneration // Jacket: TJMaxx
 //Shoes: Target // Jewelry/Belt: Old

Outfit #2 – Dusty Pink & Navy Print Peasant Blouse + Dark Skinny Jeans

This next outfit has a more rustic feel with this printed peasant blouse and dark skinny jeans. For this look, I replaced flare jeans with modern dark washed skinny jeans.  Since I’m wearing skinny jeans, I decided to not tuck in the blouse.  When paired with skinny jeans, this blouse can be worn tucked in or pulled out depending on your personal preference and/or body type.   I added a taupe crochet and fringe vest for another 70’s element and taupe ankle boots for a rustic touch.  During the warmer months, you can substitute the ankle boots for gladiator or dressy sandals.

Shirt: Nordstrom Rack // Jeans: American Eagle // Vest: Dillards // Shoes: Kohl's
// Bracelet: World Market // Ring: Vintage

Outfit #3 – Black Peasant Blouse + White Denim

For this last outfit, I wanted to create a look that could be worn at night.  If you are unsure about what color(s) to wear at night, you can never go wrong with black and white.  For this look, I decided to pair a black peasant blouse with skinny white cropped jeans.  A pair of white jeans is a must-have during the summer because they are a great option to wear instead of your typical blue denim.  I decided to tuck in the blouse this time for a lean silhouette and I added black caged heels to enhance the night-out ensemble.  I topped off the outfit with silver earrings and cocktail ring along with a neon colored clutch for a pop of color.

Shirt: Younkers // Jeans: Kohl's (Lauren Conrad Collection) // Shoes: Target
// Purse: Francesca's Collections// Jewelry: Old Navy

Are you going to try this easy outfit formula?  How would you wear a peasant blouse and jeans?

Kentucky Derby Style

Tomorrow, I’m heading to Louisville, Kentucky for the 141^st Kentucky Derby at Churchill Downs.  This trip was planned to celebrate my dad’s 60^th birthday in May.  Along with experiencing “the greatest two minutes in sports”, Derby fashion plays a huge role in the history of the Kentucky Derby. 

According to the Kentucky Derby’s website, “Colonel M. Lewis Clark Jr., founding father of the Kentucky Derby, envisioned a racing environment that would feel comfortable and luxurious, an event that would remind people of European horse racing. For a well-to-do late 19th and early 20th century woman, a day at Churchill Downs, especially on Derby Day was an opportunity to be seen in the latest of fashions”.

Dressing for the Kentucky Derby is a time to express your inner Southern Belle with bright and pastel colors in lightweight fabrics and of course, donning a decorated statement hat.  Wearing a hat to the Kentucky Derby is believed to bear good luck and its one of the oldest traditions in Kentucky Derby history. 

 To learn more about the Kentucky Derby fashion history, click here.

Dress: Fossil // Shoes: Kohl's // Bracelet: BCBG Max Azria // Hat: Flowers and Feathers - Hobby Lobby

When I was decided what to wear for this spectacular event, I knew I wanted to wear a dress that contained bright springtime colors, but was also comfortable to wear all day.  I recently saw this gingham checkered print dress at Fossil and I immediately fell in love with the color combination.  I tried it on and I loved it even more because it was long enough for my tall frame and it already had a matching tie belt which helps to define my waist.  Plus, the dress was on sale so then I knew I had to purchase it.  When I bought it, I was experimenting the different ways to wear the dress and then I realized I could wear it to the Kentucky Derby because it matched the two criteria above that I was looking for.  For the Derby, I’m pairing this dress with my white wedges for extra comfort along with a customized wide-brimmed hat I made myself.

Are you going to a Kentucky Derby Party?  What are you wearing?

Earth Tones for Earth Day!!

Happy Earth Day!! Since it’s Earth Day, what better way than to showcase some outfits featuring an earth tone color scheme.  An earth tone color scheme draws from Mother Nature’s natural pigments in dirt, rocks, minerals, moss and trees which consist of browns, tans, greens, deep oranges, and warm grays.  I usually gravitate towards wearing earth tones on a regular basis because I think they look great with my skin tone.  Below are three different outfits containing these muted tones.

Outfit #1 - Love me some Olive(s)

For this outfit, I paired my olive peasant shirt with dark wash skinny jeans and brown cowboy boots for a casual rugged look.  I accessorized with an olive, red-orange, and brown stripe headband, antique gold metallic cuff, cocktail ring, and a muted pink stone necklace for a bohemian touch.

Shirt: Old Navy // Jeans: American Eagle // Boots: Vendor at Iowa State Fair //
Headband/Necklace/Bracelet: World Market // Ring: Vintage (Grandma's)

Outfit #2 - Ochre & Prints

Ochre, which is a natural earth pigment, varies from yellow to dark orange to brown.  For this outfit, ochre is classified as a dark orange.  I decided to mix stripes and a print so I paired my Fossil ochre and ivory stripe shirtdress with my bohemian color block and print casual shoe along with a cognac faux leather jacket for an added layer.  I finished the ensemble with some owl earrings, a cocktail ring, and wood bracelets to emulate earth’s surroundings.

Dress: Fossil // Jacket: TJMaxx // Shoes: Payless (sale) // Earrings: Old Navy //
Bracelets: Craft Fair // Ring: Vintage (Grandma's)

Outfit #3 - Taupe For Work

For this last outfit, I paired a brown, mustard, and green print cowl neck shirt with taupe capri dress pants along with forest green suede heels.  I accessorized with a pair of chevron mustard earrings made out of recycled material, a chevron print gold bracelet, and a cocktail ring.  This outfit would be appropriate for the workplace during the spring or fall, just switch darker tones for more white accents during spring.

Shirt: Younkers // Pants: BCBG Max Azria // Belt: Target // Shoes: Clarks //
Bracelet: Express // Earrings: Craft Fair // Ring: Vintage (Grandma's)

Do you like to wear earth tones? How would you wear them?

Spring Trend: Gingham

Happy April Fool’s Day!! Spring is here and Easter is around the corner – time to start investing in some spring trends.  Gingham is a popular trend this season, but I actually believe it’s more of a spring and summer staple in which I think everyone – men and women – need to invest in a piece.  This picnic table print can come in a variety of colors, but of course mine is green because green is my favorite color and I tend to think of this hue as the epitome of spring due to the flourishing green grass and trees.  Below are three different outfits utilizing my green gingham button-up shirt.

Outfit #1 – Green and Blue

Green and blue is a perfect spring color combo.  For this outfit, I paired the gingham shirt with royal blue skinny jeans.  I accessorized with a pair of white keds, white statement necklace and minimal jewelry.  I finished the casual look with a loose side braid.

Shirt: JCPenny // Jeans: JCPenny (sale) // Shoes: Target // Necklace & Bracelet: JCPenny // Ring: (old)

Outfit #2 – Menswear Details

Since gingham can be worn by both genders, I created an outfit that embraced an androgynous vibe.  I paired the gingham shirt khaki boyfriend ankle pants along with a brown fedora and cognac oxford shoes.  A menswear watch is another great detail that can be added to the ensemble.

Shirt: JCPenny // Pants: Old Navy // Shoes: Dillards (Steve Madden) // Hat: Vintage - Grandpa's 

Outfit #3 – Lemon and Lime

Another color that can be paired with green is yellow.  For this outfit, I was inspired by the fruit flavors found in Sprite and 7up soft drinks.  This time, I tied up the ends of the gingham shirt for a summer twist and paired it with bright yellow skinny jeans.  I added white wedges, a belt, and retro sunglasses to the complement the refreshing color combo.  This outfit would be a great option on a sunny day.

Shirt: JCPenny // Jeans: Marshalls // Belt: Mint L.A. // Shoes: Kohl's // Sunglasses: Atomic Garage (Vintage)

How would you wear gingham?

Winter Staple: Puffer Vest

Still trying to make it through this last bit of winter?  Tired of re-wearing your big chunky sweaters? How about trying a puffer vest as a layering option.  Every winter I pull out my puffer vest on very chilly days, which have been occurring too often recently.  Depending on your personal style, these may not be for everyone, but they do add warmth and a cozy flair to an outfit that makes me want to curl up and drink some hot cocoa.  Remember, I’m a fan of showing versatility with garments so below are three casual outfits utilizing the same navy blue puffer vest with the easy outfit formula of Vest + Shirt + Pants.  I hope you find some inspiration!

Outfit #1 – Monochromatic Blues

For this first outfit, I paired the puffer vest with a navy plaid flannel button up shirt and dark washed skinny jeans for a monochromatic look.  If the weather is chilly with snow on the ground, then add a pair of cozy snow boots for some extra warmth and stability walking outside.

Vest: Old Navy// Shirt: Old Navy// Jeans: American Eagle //Boots: Dick's Sporting Goods (Sorel) 

Outfit #2 – Winter Red, White, and Blues

Who says red, white, and blue are only appropriate during 4^th of July?  I incorporated our nation’s colors by pairing the puffer vest with brick red jeggings and a cream cable sweater for a comfy casual approach.  I finished the look with jewel pendant for added color and cognac riding boots for a preppy Americana touch.

Vest: Old Navy // Pants: Kohl's (Lauren Conrad Collection) // Sweater: Old Navy // Boots: DSW (Bandolino)// Necklace: Charlotte Russe (Old)

Outfit #3 – Navy and Green

As the weather gets warmer, but there is still that winter chill in the air, try this next outfit.  Blues and greens look great together in outfits and the color combo definitely transports me out of winter and into spring.  For this transitional outfit, I paired the puffer vest with a green striped long sleeve and gray skinny jeans for a different option instead of the usual blue denim.  I finished the look with a sleek ponytail and bright green doc marten style rain boots for a colorful sporty touch.

Vest: Old Navy // Shirt: The Gap // Jeans: JCPenny // Boots: Walmart // Ring: Old

How would you wear a puffer vest?

Pantone 2015 Color of the Year: MARSALA - Winter Edition

Back in December, Pantone announced their 2015 Color of the Year - Marsala.  According to Leatrice Eiseman, executive director of the Pantone Color Institute®, “Marsala enriches our mind, body and soul, exuding confidence and stability.  Much like the fortified wine that gives Marsala its name, this tasteful hue embodies the satisfying richness of a fulfilling meal, while its grounding red-brown roots emanate a sophisticated, natural earthiness.”

Once I found out that Marsala was the color of the year, I searched my closet to see if I had any garment or accessory that closely resembled the color.  I found a couple of items and I started envisioning how to wear this color throughout each season.  Throughout the year, I will show how to wear this deep hue in each season.  Below is an outfit perfect for the chilly months of winter.

Winter - Marsala + Brown

For winter, I chose a Marsala hued sweater dress and layered it with a printed scarf, brown tights, and cognac boots while accessorizing with a rose gold watch, beaded bracelets, and a cocktail ring.   I finished the cozy chic ensemble with my maroon, black, and brown color blocked purse that I recently got as a Christmas gift from my sister.

Dress: BCBG Max Azria // Scarf: TJMaxx // Boots: DSW (Bandolino) // Tights: Express // Purse: Gift (French Connection) // Watch: Fossil // Ring: Vintage (Grandma's) //Bracelets: Old

How would you wear Marsala this winter?

Stay tuned for another Marsala outfit this spring!