I think perhaps Monday’s post startled a few people. No, it wasn’t the blatant explosion of color on the dress, nor was it the retina-searing neon pink clutch…
THE STORY
…I think it was the entire look. I don’t mean startled in a bad way, maybe it’s more like surprised. For those of you who have been around for awhile, you probably already know that when the situation warrants it, I can kick it up a notch or three. Whether I’m doing a presentation about my program to members of the State Department of Special Education, meeting parents at open house, or attending Style Week Pittsburgh I can throw together a mean look suitable for just about any occasion. It just so happens that I’m most comfortable in slouchy boyfriend jeans and loose floaty boho-inspired looks; therefore that is what I’m most often wearing on the blog, but I’m no one trick pony. Seriously, what’s the fun in that? And besides I like to throw a curve ball every once in awhile. It keeps people on their toes.
I always find it next to impossible to answer if someone asks me to define my style in one word. For me, that’s akin to asking me to define my personality in one word. I mean, is that even possible? Much like my personality, my style is a mosaic of my life experiences. My style reflects my personality, and as such it can change from day to day or situation to situation. For example, when I’m just being me I’m as sarcastic as hell and could definitely hold my own in a cuss-off at a truck stop. When I’m being teacher-me, well, yeah, I’m still sarcastic as hell, but obviously I don’t swear like I’m at a truck stop. No, what I’m saying in my head doesn’t count. By the same token, while I definitely push the envelope in regard to what I wear to work I don’t wear distressed denim (my favorite), or graphic tees with anything even slightly controversial on them or my cut-off bootie shorts…gotcha. C’mon now, you guys have to know by now that I don’t wear cut-off bootie shorts. Or bootie shorts of any variety. I just wanted to see if you were paying attention.
What I’m getting at is the best part about fashion, at least for me, is that it gives you the opportunity to be whomever you want to be at that particular moment. It allows you to try on different personas with no strings attached. It allows you the freedom to show a different side of yourself without fear. It allows you to be unique; an individual. The singular human being that you are.
THE OUTFIT
I mentioned at the beginning of the summer that I was on a mission to not dress like a scrub five out of seven days of the week all summer long. As part of that mission I’ve been collecting cute, inexpensive summer tops and now I’m adding to my sundress collection. This sweet little taupe crochet trim sundress came from Three Bird Nest. Unfortunately, it is completely sold out. That would probably be because it was on sale for $20 over the 4th of July weekend which is when I snatched it up. The nice thing about this particular crochet trim sundress is it will make a fabulous layering piece come fall/winter. I layered my lace/ruffle vest over it and then added the toe ring beaded sandals and tassel necklace for a little full-on bohemian to counter balance Monday’s tea party bridal shower look. And because I’m on a serious summer dress hunt, I decided I’d share a few of my current favorites from Shein with you:
/1. Blue Floral Maxi//2. Camo Tank Dress//3. Butterfly Halter Dress//4. Mixed Print Off The Shoulder Dress//5. Floral Midi Dress//6. Black Embroidered Dress//7. Floral Sleeveless Dress//8. Watercolor Spaghetti Strap Dress//9. Blush Off The Shoulder Dress
THE TIP
Allow your fashion choices to reflect your personality. And by the same token, allow your personality to reflect your fashion choices. I kid you not, a fabulous outfit that you know you look good in, can make an immediate change in how you view yourself on any particular day.
THE LINK UPS
Check out the weekly link ups I participate in for even more fashion and style ideas…
Dress: Three Bird Nest (Similar); Vest: Shoptiques; Sandals: Payless (Similar)
