How To Style The Classic Shirtdress For Spring

The classic shirtdress is easily one of the most versatile and timeless pieces you can have your closet. This staple can not only be dressed up or down effortlessly, but it also calls to mind the too oft forgotten dressing of days gone by. Whether worn by Grace Kelly in Monaco or Audrey Hepburn in Manhattan, the shirtdress has not only stood the test of time, but has also managed to get better with age. 

Part of this longevity I think is due to the comfort that shirtdresses provide. In fact, despite being a dress I find that they are some of the most comfortable items I own. When constructed of super soft cotton the shirtdress is not only breathable and airy but also the perfect layering piece for all four seasons. During the spring and summer you can easily wear yours alone or with the sleeves rolled up and then with sweaters, tights and blazers as the temperatures cool. 

For an early spring day in the city, I couldn't resist pulling out my shirtdress for a casual but put-together look. To bring out the rich navy blue stripes in the dress I paired it with my favorite cognac accessories. In order to prevent the look from feeling too precious I mixed my single strand faux pearl necklace and bold gold bracelets. The final look was classic and comfortable and I felt perfectly dressed for both a lazy afternoon stroll and early outdoor dinner.  

Dress: Polo Ralph Lauren / Bellt: Dooney & Bourke / Satchel: Dooney & Bourke / Necklace: Brooks Brothers / Bracelets: J. Crew / Ballet Flats: Chanel  

Under $2oo

Under $100

Under $50

Until next time!

Monday Must-Have: The Classic Polo

Happy Monday! In honor of the first day of May, today's must-have is dedicated to my favorite summer shirt - the classic polo. These versatile, short-sleeve, collared shirts are the perfect piece for pairing with skirts, shorts, chinos and jeans and can be effortlessly layered under sweaters and blazers. While often reserved for more casual affairs, classic polos in a slim but not-too-tight fit can span almost any event with little to no effort. For these reasons, I find myself constantly reaching for mine during the warmer months and love that they can take me from morning to night without a single slip. 

When it comes to the color, texture and composition of these timeless tops, I think a good place to start is solid white or navy, mesh and 100% cotton respectively. While the bright colors are also incredibly versatile during spring and summer, white and navy and great places to begin if you're either new to the polo game or just prefer a few items that you can mix and match with everything. Below I have linked some of my favorite polo inspiration and some great shoppable options available now. 

Until next time! 

Minimalistic Dressing Tip: Monochrome Basics + Standout Accessories

When it comes to working with a minimized wardrobe, starting with a monochromatic base and then changing it up with standout accessories is key. I've mentioned this dressing tactic countless times on this blog before, but I want to discuss it again because I think it truly is the key to success and makes a huge difference when choosing an outfit that doesn't feel redundant. The first point to consider when paring down your wardrobe is to ensure that you begin with a foundation of staples that can mixed and matched across all four seasons. In order to act as the perfect base for outerwear and accessories, this collection of core pieces should be in neutral colors and high quality materials that can stand triumphantly alone, or gracefully under layers of necklaces, bracelets and more. 

For this look, I started with a simple navy silk dress with an a-line cut and 3/4 length sleeves. While this dress can easily be worn alone with layers of necklaces and some great flats or heels, it also lays beautifully under sweaters, blazers, jackets and even vests without a ton of extra bulk. To suit the early spring temperatures here in the city, I did the latter and paired this dress with my go-to denim jacket, brown belt and brown ballet flats. I could have easily stopped there and been left with a simple yet classic look but I opted instead for rolling the sleeves slightly, throwing on a long tortoise shell necklace to pull out the brown in the accessories and carrying a statement clutch to set the whole look apart. By adding these last three elements I was able to take a basic look from basic pieces and make it a little more memorable. Whats even better is that I could have easily worn this same dress later in the week and made it look completely different just by swapping out the flats for ankle booties, the jacket for a pullover or cardigan, the belt and necklace for some great statement earrings, and the clutch for a cross body bag. 

All in all, this look is one that I will undoubtedly wear again but I am also looking forward to styling this dress is many more ways during the warmer months. Below I have listed the items I'm wearing and have linked some similar pieces so that you can recreate the look yourself at different price points. 

Dress: Club Monaco Murilla dress / Jacket: J. Crew / Belt: Vintage Dooney & Bourke (a similar one is available in the shop) / Necklace: J. Crew / Clutch: Louis Vuitton / Ballet Flats: Chanel

Under $100

Under $200

Under $300

Monday Must-Have: Classic Chinos

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When it comes to the warmer months, I love trading my woolen slacks for chinos. These timeless staples are not only super comfortable, but also come in an array of colors to add the perfect pizazz to any spring or summer look. As the temperatures slowly rise here in the city I am revamping my chino collection and thought it was the perfect time to share some of my faves. So, whether you already have your go-to faves or are looking for your introductory pair, I think that you can't go wrong with these streamlined bottoms. 

Perfect for pairing with heels and a t or a blazer and flowy blouse, chino pants are as timeless and versatile as they are comfortable. With that said, I think chinos need to meet a few requirements in order to constitute a quality pair. The first of these requirements is that they are predominantly cotton. I prefer mine with 98% cotton and 2% spandex for optimal comfort and a fit that holds it shape. By striking this delicate balance, I'm able to avoid an overly boxy fit that can skew a little too masculine while still looking crisp. Plus, the spandex insures that I'm able to avoid a stretched out look as the day goes on - especially in the heat. 

When it comes to colors, chinos are often available in every hue imaginable. To ensure that I can mix and match my chinos with the other items in my wardrobe I strive for a classic medium blue and nantucket red. Both of these shades are eternally classic and can be paired with stripes and solids galore. 

The final point I like to consider when choosing a pair of chinos is the length. I like mine to hit at the ankle so that I can wear them with loafers, sandals, boat shoes and heels alike. For a pair to also get extra credit, they should be long enough to be rolled once or twice without looking sloppy. Below I have linked some of my faves that are available now and I hope they help you lock down a new pair of your own. Also, the LOFT chinos are something straight out of a dream and I already bought 2! 

Until next time!