Banana Republic flounce dress || similar light was denim jacket here and here || Steve Madden ‘Gorgeous’ over the knee boots, more sizes here || Art Deco rhinestone brooch || mirrored aviators {under $10!}
photos by Ashley of Sed Bona
Now that spring has arrived I’ve been feeling the urge to start breaking out my summer dresses. But Chicago being…well, Chicago, the weather can still turn on a dime. Strappy sandals and March {or even April, for the matter}, just do not go together in this city. So for now, I’m pairing this flirty Banana Republic flounce dress with my tried and true over the knee boots and a light wash denim jacket. {P.S. These fab boots also come in gray and taupe – love them both!}
This flounce dress is also a flattering piece that can both add curves or enhance them. A fit and flare style with a drop waist can work on so many body shapes and is super versatile as well. This dress would work equally well in an office environment with pointed pumps and a structured jacket.
I mentioned recently that my style is usually pretty basic, but hopefully not boring. I’ve tried being more adventurous with colors, prints and different silhouette, but the result is a serious flop 100% of the time. Looks that I love and admire on others, just don’t translate when I attempt to emulate them. It’s just not “me” and that comes across both here on the blog and in person. If you look back at early posts {please, no!}, you can just tell that I hadn’t quite figured out my personal style yet.
But because my style tends to lean away from bright colors and statement accessories, doesn’t mean I don’t love a little sparkle. I added these gorgeous rhinestone brooches from Vintage Meet Modern. I remember plastering my denim jacket with “buttons” in the 90’s; pins advertising everything from a band to Coke-a-Cola. This feels like a grown up version of that!
The elongated rhinestone brooch is actually two separate clips that are attached to frame as a brooch but separate to wear as dress or fur clips. It could also be pinned on a bag, a scarf or even in the hair. I love how these vintage pieces have so much character and to hear the stories behind them and the style and history of the time period, gives them so much more meaning than something you’d pick up at your local chain accessories store.
I also love how vintage pieces keep a look uniquely my own. A gorgeous vintage piece can rarely be exactly duplicated but can serve as great inspiration for mixing more modern pieces in your wardrobe with something that might have been worn by a grandmother or great-grandmother. Its fun to feel connected to past generations and incorporate them into a modern outfit.
Do you have any vintage pieces in your wardrobe that you love incorporating into your day-to-day outfits? Or have you raided your grandmother’s closet to see what treasures might be lurking inside? I’d love to hear your stories!
