Shopping Our Closets: Spring Trends Edition

Today’s post revolves around several Spring 2024 fashion trends. While I don’t follow every trend that comes along, I like to be aware of what is happening from season to season. Frankly, most things have already been done, and just keep coming back into the trend rotation. Certain colors and prints, fabrics and styles come around again and again. For instance, leopard print is once again in; not that it really went out. I always hang on to a few leopard print pieces. That choice is less about what is trendy and more about what I like.

I’m not even going to give you links to forecasted spring trends because they are all so different. One says high waisted pants are out, another says they are in. The same thing for corduroys, and other styles. As I always say, wear the things that make you happy and feel good about how you look and who you are. You don’t need a high priced fashion entity to tell you what to wear. That being said, in today’s post I will share a few of the trends I like.

Prep School

Academic blazers, button down shirts and polos are all part of this preppy aesthetic. You can’t go wrong with a thrifted Ralph Lauren blazer. This is my second Ralph Lauren blazer. You can see my navy blue one here and here.

Style Tip: Second hand stores, and retailers like Poshmark, Ebay and ThredUp are great places to find cast off high end brand names.

Color Combos

This dark gray and brown pairing was another item on the trends list for this year. It seems there are few color combinations that seem a little different, but you know I love a color combo challenge, so this was perfect. Dark gray and chocolate brown would not be my first go to color combo, but I like it.

Cherry Red

Red is in and it speaks volumes, adding a pop of color to any outfit dressy or casual, and there are so many ways to make a statement with red. Try a red top, a red skirt, a red jacket or coat, a red scarf, a red bag, red shoes, or keep it simple with bright red lipstick.

Wide Legs

The wide leg look is sticking around, and you can wear it in any fabric or texture. Dress up in a wide leg trouser for work or a night out, or dress casual with a variety of wide leg jeans.

Metallics and Flats

Metallic fabric is shimmering on the run ways, but that doesn’t mean we have to go all out. Just a little dab of metals is all you need to take an outfit up a notch. I added mine in the form of my gold clutch and my silver SO flats. Flats are also on trend this spring, so take those ballet flats from the back of your closet and let them shine.

I added a few silver necklaces for a layered jewelry look, along with a few silver bangles.

Before going out shopping for new trends, be sure to take a look in your closet. Without a doubt, you have one or two pieces that are back in the trend revolving door. Out of the trends I listed above a nice structured blazer, and metallic shoes or a bag are great pieces to hang on to. They are easily styled with dressy or casual outfits, and are perfect for parties, special events and work.

I hope you enjoyed today’s outfit, and that it will inspire you to check out the spring 2024 trends on the web. You might find you have some of the ones I mentioned or others already in your wardrobe.

I’m including a few shopping links for you to look over. These are affiliate links. All opinions are my own.

Have a great day!

What's Trending for Spring 2022?

Even though I don’t follow trends closely, I still like to do a post for you about what the fashion gurus are saying is trending for the upcoming season. I typically look at websites known for their fashion panache such as: Cosmopolitan, Marie Claire, Vogue, Harper’s Bazaar, and a variety of others. You certainly can do a search under Spring Trends 2022 and you’ll get a list of websites to visit. Just understand these are fashion websites, not sites for real women like you and I. We can go to these and find inspiration, but don’t buy into the craziness that they often call fashion. It is not only impractical, but often times extremely immodest.

With that being said, there are always a few trends I like, and that I am willing to spend time thinking about how to work them into my daily wardrobe. This spring it was tough. To me it seems that fashion, in keeping with the rest of the world, is just getting crazier and more out there. It is definitely getting further and further away from what I think is appropriate for women to wear. If you have followed me for a while, you know I can be quite earthy and real, but I am also a girl who highly values modesty and self-dignity. I will save my deeper thoughts on the subject for a different day.

Here are a few of the trends I found interesting for Spring/Summer 2022:

Gingham

I love that this simple check pattern is back. It is a wonderful print for spring and summer, reminiscent of picnics and warm days at the beach.

Style Tip:

Add a gingham blouse under a pullover, cardigan or vest for a smaller touch of this pretty print.

Crochet

Crochet is something I look for when I thrift. I personally probably wouldn’t wear a crocheted dress or tank top, but I like the top with the crochet trim. Crochet can be a beautiful addition to an outfit in the form of a sweater, shawl, handbag, or trim on a top, skirt or dress.

Style Tip:

For summer, look for open weave crocheted pieces to keep you from getting too warm. If buying a crocheted handbag, look for ones that are fully lined to keep small things like pens and change from slipping through the weave.

Everything White

Once again, white is trending for the warmer weather. Wearing all white is where it’s at, but of course, don’t let that stop you from just wearing a little white here or there. I really liked this idea for the creamy winter whites, so now I need to try it with the brighter whites for spring and summer.

Style Tip

Not everyone likes to wear white near their face, so try adding a printed scarf or a bright pink or red lipstick for a colorful touch.

Black and White

There is just something so classic and chic about the combination of black and white. You all know I am a color girl, but I really like this trend and there are lots of cute styles out there. I already have numerous black and white striped sweaters and tees and I am sure a few other things as well.

Style Tip:

Be sure to shop your closet for trends. It is most likely these have been around before. Otherwise, build the trend yourself by combining black and white pieces. Wear a black skirt with a white tee, or a black cardigan with white pants.

Metallics

I love things that bling, so metallics are always on my radar. This is the type of thing you can do a little or a lot of and it still looks fabulous. Type metallic tops, shoes, bags, jackets and so on in your search bar and you will get all sorts of pieces. Metallics are a great way to take an outfit from okay to spectacular, just by adding a simple bag, pair of shoes or a top.

Style Tip:

Wear a gold or silver metallic blouse with black or navy pieces and you’ll easily get an outfit that can take you from the office to a night out.

Colorful Bags

Who doesn’t love a bright colorful bag for the warmer weather? Purses are one thing I have too many of, so I will be digging through my pile to find my brightest ones for this spring/summer season.

Style Tip:

Try styling a neutral outfit of tans, creams or blush with a bright bag and jewelry. You will look beautiful and confident with just a pop of color.

There are many other spring trends and I will be talking about a few of the others over the next few weeks. I hope you enjoyed this post. Feel free to shop the samples I gave. I try to include pieces that I think are fun and interesting as well as try to keep the price points below $100. These are affiliate links, which means every time you click I get a few pennies. I appreciate each and every click. All opinions are my own.

Have a wonderful Tuesday!

Spring/Summer - 2021 - Puffed Sleeves, Pastels and Pops of Blue

I think most of you who follow me regularly know I love to combine ideas. For example, when I do my Pantone color series, I try to combine several colors at the same time. Part of why I do this is to save time, but it also stretches myself outside the normal, jeans and tees, types of outfits. I wanted to do the same thing with the Spring Trends, and today’s outfit also added the fun literary technique called alliteration. If you don’t already know what that is, it is the combining of words that all start with the same beginning sound. My grandson recently finished up a poetry unit at school. Why they think ten years olds need to know all the poetry terms and examples to go with them is beyond me. My grandson, came away with an unfortunate loathing for poetical form, which makes this writer sad. But I digress!

Today’s outfit revolves around three spring trends that we have seen before. Puffed sleeves keep coming back around, as do pastels. I think pastels are here to stay, as they can be used in so many ways as neutrals. The color blue is always classic, but I really liked the idea of using it as a pop of color in any outfit, so I might try to incorporate this trend into some of my future looks, just for fun.

I started this outfit with a recently thrifted top by John Paul Richard. I love the pattern and the puff sleeves. We often think of puffed sleeves as being puffy on the top, but on this particular top the puff is on the lower part of the sleeve. I won’t get a ton of wear out of this before the warmer weather hits as it is a heavier weight material, but it is perfect for those in between days. I also love the smocking on the bodice, through the back and upper sleeves. Having it loose through the body is a plus right now too, for my lovely love handles.

At first I had the top paired with some jeans that were more of a cognac color, but then I pulled out these blush Christopher & Banks trousers and thought it worked quite well. As you can see there is a light pink in the top, so my matchy mind likes the combination. However, I did like the way the top looked with the other colored pants as well, but I was trying to triple up on my trends. Ha, ha.

For my pops of blue, I added a beaded necklace, I got two Christmases ago, a couple of beaded bracelets with a few blue beads and my thrifted blue Nine & Co. bag.

The warmer weather always brings out my SO ballerina flats, and this year they are back on trend. However, the colors are more metallics and statement making patterns, but flat soles are in.

What do you think of these three trends? Do you like puffed sleeves? Do you like to wear pastels? Do you have any blue accessories that you can boost up your outfits with? I’d love to hear your thoughts, so leave me a comment or two. Your comments help keep me blogging.

I’m including a few shopping links. These are affiliate links. All opinions are my own.

Have a great weekend!

Photo credit Rebecca Trumbull.

Spring/Summer - 2021 - Wide Leg Trousers, Fantasy Florals and Yellow Bags

It certainly seems that spring has settled in around here. I am fully aware here in the midwest, the temperatures will continue to fluctuate at least through April, so I am not breaking out the sleeveless tops and crop pants just yet, but sunshine is more present, the skies are that beautiful spring time blue, buds are on the trees and the grass is turning green. It is a wonderful thing to see these changes happening.

My husband and I got away for three nights to our favorite Ohio State Park, Mohican. We love renting a cabin down there and hiking a few of their many trails. It is just far enough away to feel like we went somewhere, yet we did not have to worry about out of state restrictions or quarantines. I see that New York finally lifted their travel advisory, so maybe the pandemic is finally getting under some amount of control. We certainly hope so. Time will tell.

As I said in my previous post, I wanted to take a couple of weeks and show you how I styled a few of the different Spring/Summer trends. Today’s outfit revolves around a pair of wide let trousers and a floral cardigan.

These thrifted wide leg trousers are a recent find and are St. John’s Bay brand. I personally am not a huge fan of the wide leg trouser look. Don’t get me wrong, I think they look beautiful on women with longer, thinner legs than mine. I personally prefer a boot cut, straight leg or skinny leg on my particular frame. However, I wanted to show you what a wide leg trouser might look like and this is a pair I will keep. I am going to think about some other ways to style them for future posts.

You know I love florals, so I was pleased that florals were again on the spring trend roster. I found this beautiful floral cardigan a while ago. I haven’t actually worn it, but I thought the colors went perfectly with the medium brown trousers. The sweater is a brand called Joseph A. The fabric is a light weight nylon mix and with the 3/4 length sleeves it will be great for summer.

Belts are back, ladies, so don’t be shy about showing off your waist lines. Whether you are straight, curvy, oblong or triangular, a belt not only cinches in your waist, but adds a fun detail to your outfit. I have been keeping my eyes open on my thrift store runs, but so far, no luck. I have had this brown belt with the blush embroidery detail, for a number of years. I really like it, but unfortunately it isn’t real leather and is already showing signs of wear.

You can also make out, I am wearing a long yellow pendant necklace. Long chain type necklaces are trending right now too. I have numerous longer necklaces, so now I have even more of a reason to wear them. It would be even better if I was actually going somewhere that I could wear them. Ha, ha.

For whatever reason, yellow bags are supposed to be trending this spring and summer. I have a number of yellow purses, so I was happy to have an excuse to get them out. This thrifted messenger style bag is perfect for carrying all the essentials plus a notebook or two. That is just what this writer needs. You never know when inspiration will strike.

You can also see I threw on a few beaded bracelets that I thought went well with the overall look.

These low wedge heels are Clarks and I got them a number of years ago. Low heels and flats are trending now too, so get out those ballerina flats. Platform sandals are also trending, so go figure. Ha. ha.

What do you think of the wide leg trouser trend? How about florals? Do you own a yellow bag? I’d love to have your feedback, so leave me some love in the comments section below.

I am including a few shopping links. These links are brought to you at no extra cost. I get a few cents if you click on a link and a few cents more if you make a purchase through a link. These are affiliate links. All opinions are my own.

Have a great day!

Photo credit Rebecca Trumbull.

Spring/Summer Trends - 2021

I am actually a little behind as far as being on the trend wagon, but I figure since spring hasn’t officially sprung yet, that I am right on schedule. Ha ha. I am going to do a few weeks on spring trends and then I will start my Pantone color series. It is always fun to head into summer thinking about new color combinations, so while I might be behind schedule, at least I am heading in the right direction. Let’s take a look at what is trending for this spring and summer. Remember, there are hundreds of trends that fashion entities put out and I just pick a few that I think you will find interesting. If you are interested in seeing more trends just type Spring Trends 2021 into your search bar and you will see all sorts of articles from fashion gurus like: Vogue, Cosmopolitan, WhoWhatWear, Marie Claire and more. I usually peruse as many of these sites as I can find, making a complete list, then I go through and choose the ones I like and that I can pull off with things from my own closet.

Statement Trousers

Pants have gone wide for spring and summer so be prepared for palazzo pants, wide crops and other statement pieces made of all types of fabrics from slinky knits and flowy chiffons, to more structured linens and unique denims.

Fantasy Florals

Florals are once again making a scene in the fashion world. From small prints to big and bold, you can find floral prints on everything from dresses, which I’ve shown here, to tops, bottoms, sweaters, bags, and shoes. I’m glad that florals are here to stay and that they are multi-generational

Belts

Belts are making their own statement this spring, so showing off your waist is essential whether it be by wearing a crop top or like me, by doing the front tuck. Another way to show off your belt acumen is by wearing a wider belt over a longer top, tunic or dress, to cinch in your waistline. Making a few investments in good quality leather belts is on my list of things to look for at thrift stores.

Eyelet

Texture is in for the warmer weather. We know texture plays a big part in our outfits in the winter with fur, chenille, velvet and others keeping us cozy. For summer the textures are just as noticeable with trims including feathers, fringe and string. Fabrics like eyelet, lace and netting are again popular providing extra interest for many outfits. I chose to focus on eyelet, because it is the more modest of the popular choices. Don’t get me started on what was being worn, or more truthfully said, what was not being worn on the fashion run ways!

Puffed Sleeves

One thing that is definitely true of this spring is size matters (pardon my vulgarity), but when it comes to sleeves, shoulder pads, bags and shoes, bigger is better. I have never been a huge fan of oversized shoulder pads, and platform shoes, while cute, are not something I would regularly wear, so I chose puffed sleeves for my oversized novelty.

Luxe Leather

Just like last spring, leather is still shaking up the fashion world. Leather (or faux leather for those of us with much stricter budget or looking for animal friendly options) is not just for jackets. You can find leather pants, tops, skirts and the usual leather pieces like shoes and bags. Wearable leather is much more wearer friendly these days with light weight and softer pieces. Leather also runs the color gambit, so look for leather in metallics and pastels.

Pastels

Pastels are here to stay and seem to be wearable in every season, but especially as we look forward to the brighter, warmer days of spring and summer. These lighter colors can be worn as statement pieces on their own, or you can incorporate them into your wardrobe in small doses with a bag, shoes or other accessories.

Bright Pink

This bright pink will get more air time when I do my Pantone series in a few weeks, but for now be aware, this bright, sometimes bubble gum pink is getting some attention. While blush has made its place as a new neutral in fashion, this bright pink is making a place of its own.

Wearing White

Wearing white after Memorial Day is a given, but that particular fashion “rule” has been disbanded by most people. White is a year round color, just like black or navy, or olive or blush. However, I am much more likely to wear white in the summer in the form of crop pants, skirts or shoes. If you have been wanting to get out your whites and give them a ride, go for it.

Pops of Blue

I thought this was an interesting trend that anyone could easily add to their wardrobe. The idea is to put together whatever outfit you are going to wear, then add a pop of blue. Whether you are dressed to go to work, or for a day running errands, you can easily uplift your outfit and your mindset with just a small pop of blue.

I hope you have enjoyed looking at a few of the Spring/Summer 2021 trends. I’ll be discussing a few others as I get into my outfits and possibly even into the Pantone series. If any of the pieces above look interesting, just click on the link for more details. These are affiliate links, brought to you at no additional cost. All opinions are my own.

I hope you are having a good week.

Spring Trends 2020 - Maxi Dresses, Psychedelic Prints and Vests

If you have been following along as I look at the Spring 2020 Trends, then you are well aware this year’s trends are full of patterns and diversity. If your style is classic, you’ll find pinstriped suiting and button up shirts; if you prefer color, you’ll be amused with abstract florals and tropical prints; if boho vibe is your thing then today’s post is for you. When I think of boho style, I think of 60’s and 70’s inspired prints, fringe and maxi dresses. While today’s outfit has no fringe, it definitely calls to one’s inner hippy.

I got this flower power maxi dress last year on the clearance racks at Meijer. I was attracted to the large flowers, the rusty orange colored background and the crochet overlay on the bodice. The dress has spaghetti straps, but since it is still cold out, I decided to layer a long sleeve tee underneath.

I purchased this striped long sleeve tee just after Christmas at Maurice’s. I thought the navy stripe worked well with the blue in the dress and the rusty color is similar enough to the rust of the dress to make a fun print mix.

I’ve styled this denim vest from Christopher and Banks on the blog before many times. It is a workhorse in my wardrobe and is appropriate for all seasons. See how I styled it for spring, summer, fall and winter by clicking on the seasons.

A couple of simple jewelry items are enough to make a statement without being overdone.

You’ve seen this Simply Vera, Vera Wang bag on the blog before. I’m thinking maybe a cloth bag or something like my fringe bag would have been a better choice. I almost feel like this bag was out of place. I think it looks nice with the colors involved, but doesn’t really fit the vibe of the outfit as a whole. I feel the same way about my boots.

These Baretraps boot from DSW first made their appearance on the blog last fall. You can see that post here. I love having a variety of boots and these with their slouchy fronts, spat-type appearance and wood stacked heels are just plain fun. However, I don’t think they were the best choice for this outfit. Maybe a pair of my suede ankle boots or even some sneakers would have been a better choice. What do you think?

At the last minute I grabbed a scarf to wear as a type of head band. My daughter said I looked like Frankie from Grace and Frankie. Which of course made me laugh. Lily Tomlin is a great actress and comedian.

What do you think of this outfit? Would you wear a boho style like this? Do you like to wear maxi dresses or vests? Tell me your thought in the comments below. I always love to hear from you and thank you to all of my subscribers and those of you who take the time to follow along and make comments.

I’m including a few shopping links. These are affiliate links which means if you click on a link, I get a few cents; if you purchase something through a link, I get a little bit more. Thanks to all of you who have looked at those shopping links. I really appreciate it.

Photo credit Rebecca Trumbull.

Spring Trends 2020 - Color Play - Neon

When playing with color I have found the biggest obstacle to overcome is the fear that something won’t go together; that it might look silly or clownish if I have too many colors boldly blasting their way down the street. Obviously, right now, it really doesn’t matter what we are wearing because most of us aren’t going anywhere. I still like to get up, shower, put on make up, do my hair and at least put on a pair of jeans and a top and sweater or sweatshirt. A few days I have even put on jewelry, just because I could. It really doesn’t matter if anyone else sees us. It comes down to what makes you feel happier and more comfortable during this difficult time.

Since neon is once again trending on the runways this spring and summer, I decided to look to Pinterest for some inspiration. As most of you know, when you want to find something on Pinterest you just go to the website and search. I put in neon outfits and got all sorts of ideas, some of which were definitely way outside my style zone. Since I couldn’t find exactly what I was looking for, I made up my own outfit. This is what I came up with.

This outfit would be perfectly acceptable at most work establishments and certainly helps to brighten up a drab, gloomy day. These bright red thrifted Faded Glory pants made their blog debut a few weeks ago in last months Color Play post.

This pale neon yellow short sleeve v-neck sweater was a Gap thrift find a few years ago. It is a very comfortable piece and I purposely chose the oversized look. As I told you last week, I have been getting into more oversized pieces. They are comfortable and if chosen carefully don’t add the illusion of extra pounds, but actually hide some of the more prominent bulges. Ha, ha.

My pale neon green jacket is a thrifted Christopher and Banks piece. The 3/4 length sleeves make it a great piece for spring and even for summer, when you need a little something extra for overly air conditioned offices and restaurants.

I thought the addition of this scarf was the perfect way to pull the pieces together. You could think of the this outfit as a type of color blocking, where you wear two or three plain colors next to each other. The addition of a printed scarf and bag add a touch of visual interest.

I have had this large tote bag for a long time. I don’t even remember where I got it, although I think it may have been something JC Penney’s carried in their luggage department a number of years ago and they were phasing it out. I believe I got it quite cheap. It is very roomy and easily fits my computer bag, notebooks and other writing necessities. Now that I think about it, I need to switch over to this bag from my buffalo check tote that I am currently using.

I threw on a few neon orange bracelets, just for fun.

Once again, I am featuring loafers, as they are trending right now. These are a thrifted pair of Nine West brand. Kohl’s started carrying Nine West brand clothing and shoes last fall, so I was pleasantly surprised when I pulled these out and realized they were that brand. I’m trendy and didn’t even know it. Ha, ha. I’ll include a few shopping links at the end if you are interested in adding a cute pair of loafers to your shoe collection.

Would you wear an outfit like this? Do you like neon colors? If you want to add neon to your wardrobe, but don’t want to go all out, look for a bright neon scarf, sweater or bag. I’ve provided a few shopping links below for a few fun neon items.

These are affiliate links. All opinions are my own.

Photo credit Rebecca Trumbull.

Spring Trends 2020 - Sheer Top and Tiered Skirt

Two more trends that were seen on the runways this spring were tiers and sheer. I can easily buy into the tiered idea, as you will see in today’s post. In my opinion a tiered skirt is a fun, festive way to wear a skirt. Tiers just seem to say party ready, in the same way a pencil skirt seems more down to business.

The sheer trend I have a bit of a problem with, but I decided to style it for you to show you there is a modest way to be trending and wear something sheer without showing off your pasties (and no, I am not talking about the Northern Michigan deliciousness of meat and pastry). Ha, ha.

With our newsfeeds filled with the latest stats on the COVID-19 situation, I thought it would be appropriate to give you a much needed laugh right away, thus my silly picture above.

This thrifted tiered green skirt is Old Navy brand. This skirt is a little long for a midi skirt, but a little short for a maxi skirt. I styled this before on the blog, for my Christmas series. You can see that post here. If you have been with my blog for a while, then you know, I am a fan of tiered skirts. You can see a brown one, a black one, a blue ombre one and a multi-print one from previous posts. While the runways showed other tiered clothing like tops and pants, I prefer to stick to the skirt. I like the prairie or boho vibe that a tiered skirt brings to an outfit. This skirt is lined, making a slip unnecessary. I do like that in a skirt like this.

This sheer, floral Kensie top was a past purchase from Macy’s. I fell in love with the floral pattern and the pretty detailed lace insert on the sleeves. When I saw this trend on the runways, it was typically worn with little or nothing underneath. I know there are plenty of women who will wear something like this with a lacy black bra or bralette underneath and that is out of my comfort zone. However, to wear something sheer without anything underneath is just a statement of poor judgment and poor taste. What is wrong with leaving something to the imagination? Why is it women feel the need to bare all? To me it just takes something that God made to be sacred and beautiful and makes it common place and ordinary.

I paired my sheer piece with a black cami and I really wish I would have worn a black bra as well, but I wasn’t really thinking that far ahead. Ha, ha. I guess I also feel that the less you wear under a sheer piece, the less people are going to notice the clothing and the more they are going to be obsessing either over your pretty bra or over your boobs. That’s just my opinion and I’ll save the sermon on modesty for another time.

Since loafers are trending again, I thought my thrifted, black ANA loafer heels a good choice for this look.

I kept my jewelry simple, with a amber colored tear drop necklace and a crafted bead bracelet that I picked up last summer at an outdoor art show.

My Vera Wang tote bag was a clearance purchase from Kohl’s from a number of years ago. Once again, large tote bags are in, so I have been able to pull out the ones I have hung onto over the years. I love the floral pattern on this piece and thought it went well with the flowers in the top.

The wide thrifted black belt was an after thought, as the skirt has a simple elastic waist. I felt the belt gave it a more polished look.

I couldn’t leave you without a twirl! Ha, ha.

What do you think of tiered skirts? Do you have other clothing that is tiered? I’ve tried to include some shopping links to a few other pieces with tiers.

What do you think of sheer clothing? Would you wear something sheer without anything underneath? I’d love to hear you thoughts and opinions.

I hope you all are staying safe and healthy during this difficult time.

Photo credit Rebecca Trumbull.

These are affiliate links. All opinions are my own.

Spring Trends 2020 - Outfit Inspiration - Pinstripes, Leather and Loafers

This outfit was inspired by a Kenneth Cole ad from an In Style magazine, three years ago. I often pulled pages from magazines I had subscriptions to in the past. For a while it was Women’s Day, then Better Homes and Gardens and more recently In Style. I rarely did anything more than look at pictures, so thought a better use of my money was to put it towards thrifting rather than magazine subscriptions. Ha, ha. Anyway, when I came across this ad, which was for shoes, I thought the outfit was rather cute and it fit the bill for a number of the spring trends.

There are several spring trends going on in this outfit. The metallic, blush leather jacket fits right into the bright and light leather trend for spring. I got this cute cropped moto jacket at Nordstrom Rack last year, after I had gotten a gift card. It is a brand called, Coffee Shop NY.

My Mickey Mouse crop top is a thrifted Disney tee. In the original add, the model had on a cropped sweater, that was really cute, but I didn’t seem to have one that was the right length.

My pinstriped button up is a men’s Izod brand and another thrift find. I have fallen in love with oversized button up shirts, either men’s or women’s it doesn’t matter, as long as it is slightly large. When I think of something being oversized, I go for a piece that has sleeves that are long enough they might need to be rolled once. The shirt, especially a button up will be fully or at least partially covering my butt. I also look for something that isn’t too wide. There is a fine line, I believe, as to what looks cute as something oversized and what merely makes us look like, a “walking pile of laundry”, as my husband says. An oversized shirt like this can be worn by itself, under a sweater with part of it hanging out and as a jacket over a cute tee or cami. Be creative. There are lots of fun button ups at the thrift stores.

My skinny jeans are a clearance find from Kohl’s and are Vera Wang brand. They are a bit tight right now. Ladies, I am just being real here. This whole weight thing is a real struggle. It isn’t that I think being larger is a bad thing. I think every individual has to be comfy in their own skin. The best thing is to be healthy and you can do that at 250 pounds or 110 pounds. My biggest struggle is eating junk. It seems like it is worse lately. All I want is chips, bread and sweets, and I don’t even get a period any more. Anybody else out there struggle like this?

I wanted to wear some sort of necklace, but didn’t want to interfere with Mr. Mouse, so I chose this very old letter pendant necklace. I’ve had this for years, and it still holds its shine.

This American Living bag was a thrift find. It can be used like a doctor bag with the short handles or worn as a cross body bag with the longer strap. I really do like bags that have this versatility.

In the original ad, the model had on black heeled boots, but I wanted to bring in another trend that is back in the fashion world, that of loafers. I used to think I wasn’t really much of a loafer fan, but then I started looking through my shoes and realized, somewhere along the way, I changed my mind. From the traditional loafer to loafer heels, to loafer mules, these simple shoes are a wardrobe staple and can be worn with everything from skinny jeans, to crop pants to skirts and dresses. They are great for work, especially if you find a comfy pair and have to be on your feet a lot. This pair of loafers is another Kohl’s clearance find and is Dana Buchman brand. They are made of a tweedy material.

I hope you enjoyed today’s outfit. Inspiration can come from all sorts of places, so be sure to look at those magazines while you are waiting at your dentist appointment, or check out Pinterest for tons of outfit combinations. You can check out my Pinterest boards as well and see what sorts of outfits, inspire me.

Have a wonderful weekend.

Photo credit Rebecca Trumbull.

As always, I’m providing a few shopping links for you to look over. These are affiliate links. All opinions are my own.

Spring Trends 2020 - Polka Dots

If there is one thing that is prevalent this year for spring trends it is patterns. From polka dots, to plaid, to pinstripes, to florals and tropical greenery, and more, patterns abound. Being a girl who likes color, I am all in when it comes to wearing patterns. It is an easy way to add visual interest and colors to an outfit, with just the addition of a printed top, skirt or scarf.

Today’s outfit revolves around polka dots. Yes the cheery dots are back and bolder than ever. Most of what was on the runway featured larger more bold polka dots, but any dots will do and if you are feeling really bold, why not go for a head to toe polka dotted outfit, like the one featured in this post?

I think everything in this outfit I have used on the blog before. With the ever increasing emphasis on recycling of all sorts, it is a great practice to only purchase pieces for your closet that are going to get used over and over.

Let me tell you about this outfit from head to toe and provide links to other posts where I have used the same piece.

Polka Dot Top

This “top” is actually a short dress/tunic that I got on clearance at Charming Charlie a few years ago. The dress is too short for my taste, but I thought it would be cute with cropped pants in the summer, or used like this, tucked in, so it looks more like a regular popover blouse. It is fully lined, so no worries on having to wear a cami underneath. You can see I styled a similar look with a different polka dot skirt and a navy eyelet jacket here.

Abstract Polka Dot Skirt

I call this George brand, high waisted, pull on skirt, abstract polka dot, because the dots are more squishy than perfectly round. I really like this midi length skirt and midi’s are the trend for spring and summer. Go figure, we go from midi skirts to hot pants. No hot pants for this girl. I’m sorry, but hot pants are only made for ladies with long, slim, pretty legs, and mine have none of those qualities. Back in the day, but not any more. This skirt is fully lined, but very light weight, so perfect for spring and summer. I originally posted this skirt with a striped crop top and jean jacket. You can see that post here.

Classic Blue Cardigan

This ANA cardigan has been a warmer weather staple in my closet for many years. I can’t seem to find another post using this sweater, but I know I have worn it on Instagram. If you don’t follow me yet, on Insta, just look me up. You’ll see more of my every day looks over there and pictures of our cat, Plato and a few other things here and there.

Trendy Bag and Necklace

Large tote bags are making a come back, at least for the spring and summer. Like I said in my introductory post on the Spring Trends, I like a fun, large tote bag, especially for traveling, because you can throw extra things in there like a book, notebook and a bottle of water. This tote was a clearance find at Kohl’s and I love the texture details and the gold design. 

Another Spring Trend is chunky chain jewelry. I got this necklace a couple season’s ago and haven’t worn it that much. Now I have more of a reason to.

Classic Blue Heels

I’ve worn these bright blue Croft and Barrow heels numerous times before on the blog. For a while I couldn’t find them. I had packed them away in a shoe box, inside another box. I’m not sure what I was thinking. Ha, ha. You can see how I styled them with a denim skirt, a floral dress, a maroon skirt and white jeans. They are very versatile shoes and I noticed when we did these pictures they are starting to show signs of wear, so I need to be on the look out for a replacement pair.

Are you a polka dot fan? What do you think of this outfit? I’d love to hear you thoughts.

Thanks to everyone who supports the blog. I’m including some shopping links. These are affiliate links, and all opinions are my own.

Photo credit Rebecca Trumbull.

Have a wonderful day.

Spring Trends 2020 - Thrifted Thursday - Head to Toe Denim

Today’s outfit revolves around the Spring 2020 trend of head to toe denim. While this may not be a trend that many women would embrace, I actually like it. Denim and I have been friends for a long time, whether it was wearing cut off jean shorts in the summer, overalls in the winter, bell bottoms or skinny legs, jackets or vests, denim has always been a part of my life. When I was younger, most denim was made with cotton. The beauty of the piece came out as it became worn. Jeans were often stiff, but after weeks of wear and washings, the fabric became like a comfortable sweatshirt, easy to wear and to take care of. Now denim is so versatile from the fabrics it is mixed with to the color wash, you can find denim to wear for lounging around the campfire, going to work or even for a night on the town.

Since I started doing these columns, I decided to use the columns as a way to show off the current theme with an added twist. today’s outfit is completely thrifted, except for the shoes and jewelry.

I saw on Jo-Lynne Shane’s Spring Fashion Forecast that wide leg pants were on the list. She did say, even though these are mentioned, she hasn’t been seeing them around much and you really have to have the right body type to pull them off. As I look at this outfit, I agree. I am carrying around about twenty more pounds than I really should be and maybe these thrifted wide leg Banana Republic jeans would look better with a little less puff around my thighs and butt.

The embroidery on this thrifted J.Jill - Out of the Blue, jacket was definitely a selling point for me. For some reason I have always been a fan of embroidered embellishments on clothes, shoes and bags. I used to embroider quite a bit when I was younger and had a number of denim pieces, including a vest my mom and I had made together, that I put embroidery on. I can see wearing this jacket with white pants or a skirt, as well as with various washes of denim cropped pants in the summer.

With this outfit I am using three washes; a dark wash shirt, a medium wash pant and a light wash jacket. You could just as easily pull it off with denim pieces all from the same wash. Part of the beauty of denim is even in the same wash a piece can look quite different.

My dark wash chambray shirt has 3/4 length sleeves, and two flap front pockets. I think it is good to have at least one chambray shirt, or in my case, at least one in all three washes. Ha, ha

Once again, I kept the jewelry simple and casual. I think rose gold is the perfect metal for dressing up or down and it goes beautifully with denim in any wash.

My fringe bag was another thrift find and I think it may have been hand made. It is suede and has no label inside. It gives the outfit a great hippy vibe and you will see, that many of my outfits in this series seem to veer that way, maybe because many of the trends are quite conducive to that vibe.

My shoes have made an appearance on the blog recently and while they are definitely a winter boot, in our area, spring has not yet arrived. They are Sonoma brand and I got them from Kohl’s.

I decided to add a colorful head scarf to the outfit, just to add a tiny element of color. It has some gold threads in it too, so I thought it went well with the jewelry and the outfit as a whole.

What do you think of wearing denim head to toe? Do you have pieces in your closet that you could put together for a look like this. I’d love to hear you thought in the comments section below. I really value you input.

Be sure to check back next week for a look at polka dots, pinstripes and leather. Until then, have a great weekend.

Photo credit Rebecca Trumbull.

Be sure to check out the shopping links for all things denim below. These are affiliate links. All opinions are my own.

Spring Trends - 2020

This year’s list of Spring Trends is full of interesting things. Many of the trends are repeats from the past and many are not worth mentioning because, in my opinion, they are not realistic for actual women like you and I. I believe in modest dressing, so bralettes as tops and sheer clothing with nothing underneath does not measure up to my standard. My plan is to introduce some of the trends to you in this post and then for the rest of the month of March, I would like to show you my own takes on some of these trends. I have been aggressively shopping my closet to put together outfits that might be trendy and cost effective. You’d be amazed at how many things you already have.

Image by pasja1000 from Pixabay

Patterns

Polka Dots

This fun, versatile print is back in full force. The great thing about polka dots is anyone can wear them. The dots can be tiny or large; on just your top, just your bottom or all over. You can even mix differing polka dot sizes, and polka dots mix perfectly with most other patterns and textures.

Abstract Florals

Florals, like polka dots are still very popular. This spring the trend is towards florals that are more abstract, rather than more realistic looking. I have a lot of floral in my wardrobe and personally prefer that a flower look like a flower, but having one of these abstract pieces would be a fun addition to the norm.

Tropical Prints

Once again, tropical prints are ushering in the warmer weather and making us all want to go on a vacation to a tropical paradise. Ha, ha. You can find these prints on tops, skirts, shorts, dresses, bathing suits and bags, so whether you want a little or a lot, you should be able to find something either in your closet, a thrift store or at the mall.

1960’s & 1970’s Influence

These bright, whimsical patterns are very reminiscent of the 1960’s and 70’s which was the fashion designers’ intent. In addition to these typical bright, paisley swirls and other designs, the trends include patterns that hale from the walls and couches of these two decades in the form of suiting, disco collared button ups and long dresses.

Monochrome

Head to Toe Denim

This is one trend, many of us can easily put together. If you have a pair of jeans, a chambray shirt and a denim jacket you can do this head to toe denim trend without investing a penny. The denim’s do not have to match, so wear a dark wash pair of jeans, a medium wash shirt and a light wash jacket and you are good to go.

Head to Toe White

White is back and party ready in the form of dresses. The length and style is up to you, but anything goes when it comes to white. I think you could also pull off a similar look with a white skirt and top, so be sure to shop your closet before you purchase anything new.

Other Interesting Trends

Neons

Neon colors are back and bolder than ever. Be prepared for head to toe looks that are bright, festive and make you stand out in a crowd. This is one I will be showing you in a few weeks from my own closet. Neon isn’t something I would regularly reach for, but it is definitely fun to add into your clothing mix.

Drawstrings

Drawstring details are trending this year. Think utility meets jogger chic. I don’t think this is such a big deal, but I do have a few different things with drawstrings and just the other day found a pretty blush sweater while thrifting that has a drawstring in the bottom hem, which makes it more casual. As with many of the trends, sometimes a little is better than a lot. A drawstring here or there can add interest to an outfit, but overdone and you begin looking like a walking pile of spaghetti.

Large Bags

Who doesn’t love a fun tote bag? I enjoy carrying a large tote, particularly when I am going on vacation. That way, I can carry a book or notebook, in addition to the usual stuff. The only thing I don’t like about a large tote is, if you are like me, it will be crammed full of stuff and way too heavy to carry on a shopping trip. For that, I will stick to my smaller, cross body bags.

Chunky Chains and Colorful Jewelry

Thinking about getting rid of those bright colored bracelets and large link necklaces, well don’t. Bright colors and large, chunky chains are trendy for spring and summer. This is one, I think I can get behind, because I like all sorts of jewelry. I have a large link necklace that I haven’t worn much, so now I have an excuse. Hooray! Think twice before you get rid of things you think you’ll never wear again because they have gone out of style. Don’t worry, they’ll be back.

Chunky Soles and Loafers

I’m not sold on the chunky soles, but I actually like the light colored combat boots and the leopard print sandals above. They are cute and not over the top. Loafers are like polka dots: they’ll be around forever, even if they aren’t trending in any given season. I was surprised when I started rummaging through my closet for a pair of loafers, that I actually have a number of pairs in addition to my loafer heels.

There are numerous other trends I could talk about, but these were a few of the ones that I thought were fun. This year it seemed the trends were sort of all over the place. I usually google, Spring Trends and the year and get the main fashion names and their takes on the trends, such as Vogue, Cosmopolitan, Harper’s Bazaar, Who What Wear and Marie Claire. It is always interesting to see what’s out there, but only use it as a guideline. The fashion gurus do not determine what is best for you, that is your job. If you don’t like chunky soled shoes, don’t wear them. If you are especially fond of stripes, but they are not currently trending, don’t get rid of them. Most patterns, with the exception of the very unusual ones, will come back around. Relax, and enjoy the trends just for the fun of it.

Which trend is your favorite? Which trend do you loathe?

I hope you enjoyed this post. If any of the items look interesting to you, just click on the picture and it will take you to the retailer website. These are affiliate links. Every time you click a link, I get a few cents. I value all of your support, but especially your comments. Thanks for all you do!

Have a great Tuesday!