As you may have noticed, blue and white is one of my favorite color combos. There is just something so crisp, clean and classic about it. Today I’ve chosen my white distressed jeans and a cute patterned blue and white top.
The difference between the before and after is very subtle- but it matters. In the before look my jeans are too baggy. Look closely, you can see how there is extra fabric around my knees and thigh area, which looks odd. The skinny jeans on the right have enough stretch in them that they are tight, but still comfortable and allow for some movement.
The other changes I made (obviously) are adding a belt, doing the half tuck and changing into cuter shoes. All together, it’s a more polished look.
I love this print, it’s sort of like an animal print, but in blue and white. Fun!
*Full disclosure- I am not actually wearing this today, instead I am in my grubby clothes helping my hubby paint our bedroom. But, if I were going to do something fun today, this would be a cute outfit to wear. Hope you’re having more fun today than I am! 🙂
Today I’m not doing a before and after outfit post, instead I’m asking for your help. I was shopping at Value Village looking for jeans for my demonstration on distressing jeans, and I stumbled across this floral skirt (with the tags still on it), so I bought it. It’s a bit of a risk for me, but I kinda like it. However, my husband said, where on earth would you wear that?
So, that’s where you all come in. Is this a keeper? And if so, what else should I wear it with? I like the black tank (although I may need to add a long necklace) and I think the denim jacket looks cute, but what else? When buying something new, I always try to think of at least 3 different ways that I can wear it, but in this case I am stumped! And if you hate it, that’s ok too! It won’t hurt my feelings! This is a learning process for me more than anything! That’s the whole reason I do this blog, not because I am an expert on style (I’m clearly not), but because it forces me to try new things, experiment with my clothes and have a little fun! Thanks for being a part of it!
Today’s OOTD is a super easy, casual weekend outfit . And just by making a few subtle changes, I have completely altered the look of the before photo .
Swapping out the shoes is probably the biggest/ most important change. The bright white and blue tennis shoes attract to much attention to my feet. The black tennis shoes look more natural with the black joggers. Then I pushed up the legs of the joggers a bit to show some skin, tucked in my shirt and pushed up my sleeves. Such small changes, but a big difference!
I know you’re not going to believe this, but this is the same sweater in both photos! I swear! But the way I am wearing it- it looks totally different. This cute sweater has little buttons & button holes on the sides to wear it wrapped, and I love it! It reminds me of something I would have worn to ballet class when I was little.
Paired with these super casual jeans and dressy shoes- I have a cute outfit! You may recall that these jeans were actually in my ‘before’ photo the other day. But then after doing all my jeans research, I realized that this wide bootleg cropped look is actually in style! Yeah! Lesson learned- don’t ever get rid of your jeans- they will eventually come back into fashion.
In order to make them look current, I just have to be careful with how I style them and what shoes I wear.
These gorgeous snakeskin pointy toed sling backs are perfect, they make the jeans look trendy and modern. I also replaced the high neck white shirt from the before photo to a tank- which is much less matronly.
One question/ comment I get a lot is how to do the half tuck. If you’re a regular reader, you know I love doing the half tuck. I think it makes my outfit look more polished, it defines my waist and makes my legs look longer.
One thing to know is that it’s super easy to do. I literally just take the front of the shirt and tuck it in. Sometimes I just take a tiny part of the front and tuck it in, as seen here. I always leave the back out so that my butt is covered.
I jokingly call it the f***ing half tuck because it drives a lot of people crazy. I get it. On days when I’m feeling bloated- the last thing I want is a tucked in shirt.
But, if you are skipping the half tuck- then think about other ways to spice up your outfit. Unbutton a few buttons at the neck, roll the sleeves, wear fabulous shoes, add a statement necklace or scarf. Throw on a jacket or cardigan. Or forget the button down and try a bold print rayon (or silk) top that drapes well. Do something to make the eye look anywhere but your tummy!
In the photo above, I skipped the half tuck, but it still looks better than the before photo because I’ve done a few things to add some style. I’m wearing sandals (yes, my feet might freeze). I’ve rolled up my hems of my jeans, and added necklaces and bracelets. All of these minor details add appeal and interest.
This title may be a bit ambitious, but my sweet (and fashionable) sister, Kara asked me to do a post on what tops to wear with different styles of jeans. So, after doing a ton of research, here are my findings. Hint: grab a cup of coffee… this is going to be a LONG post!
I’m going to start with wide leg jeans- since 1. that is what I’m wearing today 2. they are totally back in style 3. you may be wondering what the heck to wear with them.
I’ve worn these once before, paired with a cute striped top as seen here. Today, I’m pairing them with a black camisole and a VERY old blazer. Seriously, I think my 17 year old was an infant when I bought this at White House, Black Market. But, after all these years I still love it. It has that classic, Chanel inspired look that will never go out of style.
I decided I needed a long necklace with this top, so I threw this on one.
In my before photo, I paired it with a blouse that is oversize and a jacket that was too baggy for this style of jeans and clunky boots. The trick with wide leg jeans is balance. Since you are big on bottom, keep the top somewhat fitted or simple. My cropped jacket doesn’t overwhelm the pants. You don’t want to look like this photo below. While she looks comfy, it’s also a messy look.
photo cred: whowhatwear.com
I would say with wide leg jeans or pants, do not wear peplum, tunics or oversize tops. Unless you are super skinny, avoid long jackets. Stick to slim tops, or a fitted blouse. Off the shoulder top is popular with wide pants. Or a striped sailor shirt with boatneck collar would be cute. Try a tank or plain fitted v neck shirt (like I did today). Shoes really matter here- think heels, pointy toe or very minimal tennis shoes like Converse or Superga. Below are some inspiration outfits for you to consider.
I love the scarf as a belt. Cute, simple white top keeps everything in balance.
I love the simple tank with these jeans. And the shoes. Gorgeous! photo cred: Stylecaster.com
I always love stripes- and the off the shoulder look is lovely. Shoes are fun in the bright yellow! photo cred: katie considers.com
Now let’s talk about skinny jeans- since you all know they are my favorite! One of the nice things about skinny jeans is you can basically wear anything with them! They are so versatile.
An oversize sweater (or tunic), skinny jeans and booties is a great, casual look! Jackets and blazers over a tank or camisole look cute with skinny jeans. A long cardigan over t shirt works, or consider a statement blouse or button down shirt. Be sure to add a skinny belt. Another option is a boxy blouse to create a little shape on top. As for shoes, try neutral sandals, or pointy toed heels look gorgeous. Ballet shoes work as well. For a more casual look, wear simple tennis shoes. Below are some inspiration outfits I found on Pinterest.
Here are 2 great tops with skinny jeans- a button down blouse or a boxy blouse. Notice the neutral shoes. Photo cred: Gorgeautiful.com
Here is a date night look with skinny jeans. Love the off the shoulder top and the pink heels. Very glamorous! photo cred: miamiamine.com
Moving on to cropped jeans! Cropped jeans can be a skinny cut, a wide leg cut, or a straight leg. As with skinny jeans, any top works with cropped. Cropped straight leg cut is a good alternative to the skinny- they are still dressy, but better for many figures.With cropped jeans, it’s all about the shoes! Ankle boots, flat sandals, tennis shoes, ballet flats, pointy heels. Anything goes!
A camisole, blazer and skinny cropped jeans is a very classic look. And again with the neutral heels. Photo cred: SydneStyle.com
Boyfriend jeans are a must have for most fashionistas (although truthfully, I’m still trying to find some that I love). Boyfriend jeans are usually really faded, distressed with holes at the knees. They fit somewhat baggy, but have a straight leg. They are often rolled at the cuff. For date night, pair with a super feminine top and heels. Otherwise, pair with t shirt or fitted sweater and tennis shoes or ballet flats. Try a crew neck sweater and loafers. A graphic t and blazer would be a super cute outfit. Below are some inspiration photos:
I love the plain black t shirt, the ripped jeans and the espadrilles. Such an easy, but stylish look. photo cred: femalemag.com.my
Here she has paired boyfriend jeans with a cute t shirt and duster cardigan and heels. This is a fun way to wear them. photo cred: FashionTasty.com
Here is a good date night or girls night out look- a black camisole, white blazer and black pointy toed heels. photo cred: http://makeoverly.com/boyfriend-jeans/
This is a cute casual boyfriend/ straight leg look. Graphic t shirt, blazer and tennis shoes. photo cred: Mykindofsweet.com
Making it’s way back into style is the bootleg cut. I do not own bootleg jeans, but now think I may need to get some! They are a great jean for a curvy figure. With bootleg jeans, try an off the shoulder top, or something somewhat fitted. One rule with bootleg is always wear heels, boots or wedges! No flats! For an edgy look, try a graphic t shirt and a bohemian cardigan. Or for a classic look, a button down blouse tucked in with a wide belt. Add a cropped jacket to show off your waist. Or maybe a flowy blouse- but not too flowy (no Seinfield references!) Remember, the jeans are the main attraction in this case. The top should be understated and not compete with jeans. No oversize sweater!
This flowy blouse is perfect. photo cred: Collection201.nl
Here she is wearing a simple grey shirt and a cute blazer with the sleeves rolled up and boots.
One of the things I noticed in my research is that you can wear basically anything with jeans! There aren’t any rules- just go with what you think feels and looks right. But try to think about proportions, big on bottom = small on top and vice versa. Remember, darker denim is dressier, so for a casual look- for for a washed or faded color. For evening out, go for a dark wash or black jeans. And in my opinion, white jeans are in style year round.
That’s all I’ve got for you today. I’ve got to get to work (teaching 4th grade today)! Wish me luck… and please comment with your favorite style of jeans and what you like to pair them with.
Last week I wore a plain white blouse with blue jeans- just a simple, basic outfit. Well, today I’m doing a similar look, except this time I’m wearing my grey jeans and a grey and white striped blouse.
I’ll be the first to admit there is nothing earth shattering about today’s look. But on a day when you’re rushed to get out the door, go for the basics! A classic button-down shirt is always in style. Try tucking it in and adding a belt. Or, try unbuttoning a few buttons and layering it over a colored tank. How about colored jeans instead of blue jeans? Add some bracelets or a necklace. Roll up the sleeves. Wear cute shoes (sorry Uggs). There are many ways to add a little style to an otherwise simple and plain outfit.
Now, if you’re going to wear a button down shirt- here’s a little tip from my mom- buy a good iron. The best you can afford! My iron is a Rowenta- and I love it! It’s super heavy and solid- and does a really good job. It was expensive, but it isn’t even top of the line (my mom has the top of the line one and it’s even better). Plus, a newer model is on sale right now on Amazon (please note that I receive zero compensation for any links on my site. I do this just for fun!). Also, rather than having to drag out the ironing board and set the whole darn thing up- if you have room, keep your board set up and ready to go at all times. It makes a big difference!
I’m calling this look my “rock star” look because it is inspired by Steven Tyler, lol!
Seriously though- he always wears flowy scarves. When I wear a scarf, it’s usually an infinity scarf looped around my neck. Today I thought I’d take a little risk and try wearing it loose. And to be honest, I really like it!
I love the color it adds to this otherwise plain sweater. Plus, even though it is technically spring, it’s still a bit chilly, so this scarf actually provides a little warmth- while still looking ‘springlike’ with the pretty floral pattern. Speaking of being chilly…
I had a reader write asking how to keep your feet warm, while still showing a little skin at the ankle. Here is how! Wear Smart Wool socks. These keep my feet toasty warm- and they work with my booties, as well as my slip on tennis shoes.
Originally, I was planning on wearing this scarf with a tee shirt- as pictured below, but it was just too chilly. However, if its warm where you live, consider trying a scarf with a tee shirt. It’s a fun way to dress up a plain shirt.
I might have just made up the word Spring-ifying, but hopefully you know what I mean. Now that it’s Spring- our clothes should reflect that.
Take today’s outfit. I’ve chosen ripped white jeans and this sweet little patterned top. In the photo on the left, the black sweater and black shoes are ok- but to me they seem a little dark and wintery. So, to ‘spring-ify’ my look, I replaced the dark sweater with a cute grey one. It will still keep me warm, but just looks a little lighter. Same with the shoes. Instead of the dark black loafers (which I love by the way), these neutral strappy wedge sandals are more appropriate for spring. Now I just need to find time for a pedicure.
A tank layered under the top will also provide warmth.
Love this pattern. Sweet, feminine and definitely spring-ish!
Jeans- these are from Value Village and I distressed them myself. See how here!
Top- Nordstrom, Vince Camuto
Shoes- Clark, these are so old I honestly can’t remember when I bought them.
Grey cardigan- Banana Republic, this one is old as well.
Are you noticing anything about my clothes? They are old! I am wearing stuff that I bought maybe 5-10 years ago. You do not need to go out any buy new clothes all the time. Shop your closet!
I don’t know about your family, but my family is NUTS about March Madness. Even my daughter, who cares nothing about sports, is super into it! Maybe it’s because I am a Jayhawk- and basketball is in our blood?!
It’s fun to wear a tee shirt or sweatshirt that supports your team, but there is a stylish way to do it- and a not so stylish way. Take my look on the left. The sweatshirt is way to big (it’s my hubby’s) and my jeans are all wrong.
So, to fix my outfit I have replaced the weird jeans with these cute distressed ones. I like the skinny cut- it’s much more flattering. I then replaced the oversized sweatshirt with a cute scoop neck KU shirt. For my feet, I am actually wearing my Birkenstocks! Oh yeah! I started wearing Birks in college (back in the early 90’s) and I have loved them ever since. They aren’t the most stylish shoe- but they are making a comeback. They are incredibly comfortable- and paired with the right outfit- can actually be cute.
Everyday Mom Style 