With Spring in the air and looser, more drapey shapes on the horizon, why not head out on a break from boring? What to pack: a pair of cropped, flowy pants, breezy blouse, some on-trend gladiator-inspired sandals, stacks of bangles, and a roomy metallic hobo. If it’s a staycation, you’re all set; if it’s an actual va-cay, don’t forget a floppy hat, oversize shades, and vintage valise.
HERE’S WHERE TO GET THE LOOK:
BREEZY BLOUSE This flattering, feminine washed silk blouse skims in all the right places, and is amazingly versatile. Depending on your mood, it’s…
…a beach coverup! (pair with soft camel-hued gauchos and a straw sandal)
…office attire! (with slim-cut black pants and cropped matching jacket)
…80s fabulous! (wide red belt and leggings)
…worth every penny of its $88 price tag! (Peter Nygard smocked blouse at Dillards.com)
CROPPED TROUSERS Shopping for the eco-chic versions of the season’s must-have pieces can feel like a far-flung experience. The antidote? The UK’s Fashion-Conscience.com, where everything is under one roof – from well-established brands to emerging designers – and all clearly marked as Vegan, Sustainable, Recycled, Fair-Trade, and/or Organic. These slouchy cropped Camilla Norback trousers are 100% organic cotton, and would look equally fab with red pumps and a striped boatneck tee sailorgirl style, or with laceup gladiators and a loose, open vest. For more fashionable ideas with a conscience, be sure to check out their blog. Navy Cropped Bow Trousers $84 (on sale) at Fashion-Conscience.com.
DRAPEY CHAIN NECKLACE For under $20, rock this chain-festooned garnet-colored pendant with everything from your LBD to a Mischa Barton’esque ensemble complete with fringed boots and short-shorts. The 24″ length is go-with-everything perfect, as is the price. Nadia Necklace $16 at ShopTheLook.net.
LACE-UP SANDAL/BOOTIES A cross between a peep toe bootie and a sandal, this happening hybrid from Dolce Vita is the new go-to shoe for slouchy rolled boyfriend jeans, your fave mini, or with bare legs and a belted oversize cardi. They’re even surprisingly practical, thanks to the covered 2″ heel. And no, you won’t see them on every Jane, Jill, and Sally because they’re a limited-time exclusive: web-only at UrbanOutfitters.com for $168.
STACK OF BANGLES Multi-colored, multi-material, multi-faceted…Spring calls for bangles stacked high up on the arm, the more multi, the better. For now, pile ’em on with a crochet top, harem pants, and oversize shades; with a slinky halter dress and some Chanel No. 5; or with ripped jeans, peeking out from under the rolled sleeve of your boyfriend jacket. And when the stacked bangle trend becomes passe, simply wear separately. Oasis Pearl & Cream Etched Bangle Set $20 at ASOS.com.
METALLIC DUFFLE Totally of-the-moment, this trendy spot-on copper bag features a cute chain tassel, roomy pockets, and slouchy-chic unstructured silhouette. Originally $80, 1Site1Price.com is carrying it for just under $30, along with other fab deals on brands like FarylRobin, Fornarina, C&C, and GR8 Buddha. Be ready to do some searching, but a little legwork always unearths a great find or two – and if you buy 4 items, you’ll get an additional 10% off and free shipping. La Mode Copper Bag $30 at 1Site1Price.com.
And with this article we bid a fond farewell to our column dedicated to Chic Steals & Fashion Deals. Instead, look for our fresh weekly article on everything DIY. Thanks for reading, and stay tuned for the launch of Don’t Buy…D.I.Y.!
-Carly J. Cais
published April 14, 2009 on FashionTribes.com
More from Chic Creative Life
Tags:
My Travel,
travel photo diary,
Vacation Travel
BREEZY BLOUSE This flattering, feminine washed silk blouse skims in all the right places, and is amazingly versatile. Depending on your mood, it’s…
