We’re back with another installment of “What I Wore Lately.” This “format” reminds me of the OG blogging days – you know the ones – not overly produced posts, just sharing what you’re thinking, finding, and wearing. (I do spell check, but apologies in advance for any errors!)
Back then, blogging was more relaxed. But for those who wanted to stay in the game, having a blog eventually morphed into running a full-on website. You had to master SEO, content optimization, video, being an authority in the eyes of Google, standing out from the influx of influencers, master the Pinterest algorithm… etc., etc., etc. Gone were the days of talking about what you wore or what new styles you saw. If you wanted the chance of ranking in Google or Pinterest, then you had to – still do – hit certain keywords, topics, and a word count in your post. It overall became more formulaic and less in the moment.
(That’s both good and bad, of course, a more thought-out post that adds value is definitely an improvement upon one’s ramblings – I’m talking to you, Carolyn!)
Helping you with your wardrobe is such an honor (thank you, seriously, from the bottom of my heart for your support), but I’ll admit – I do miss the days when there was more of an ease to it. But I think collectively we can all agree: we miss when the internet felt easier… and safer. Now it feels like everytime we scroll, there are discussions about privacy and the dreaded two letters that I don’t want to repeat (Hint: A???? ).
But I digress. All that to say, I thought that if I miss the more in-the-moment casual posts, why not occasionally bring that back? Our goal at MCO is still reader-first (you are #1 to us!), but if you enjoy this more relaxed style, then these posts are for you.
1. striped shirt + black mini skirt + red ballet flats
I certainly felt like a French girl in this outfit… down to the canvas tote bag! When I was in Paris, I saw a lot of Parisians carrying tote bags along with their handbag. This is the way to carry essentials, such as your laptop, groceries, a change of shoes, etc., without dirtying your main bag (and especially if you don’t even have room). So with Parisian fashion in my mind, I completed this look with a striped shirt and skirt (mini for the hot weather). With pearl studs, a leopard print headband, and red ballet flats, this outfit combo became a favorite and one I’ll want to wear again!
2. tank top + linen blazer + crop jeans + mary jane flats
Jeans in the summer? It can be done! (Maybe just not during a heatwave.) My preferred way to wear jeans in the hot months is to first and foremost choose a light wash – preferably cropped with a wide leg. This style overall feels more casual, not to mention breezy. Then I love to lighten it up with fresh colors and summer fabrics. No matter the season, a blazer is one of my all-time favorite wardrobe staples. And in the summer, I love swapping out a heavy blazer for a linen one. Lightweight and chic!
3. oxford shirt + linen pants + sandals
I feel like I’m wearing these white linen pants about once a week! I’ve dressed them up, down, and somewhere in between (like this look), and when you can do that, that’s when you know you’ve hit upon a classic wardrobe staple that fits with your wardrobe and lifestyle. I love the light blue paired with the white; it’s giving summer Coastal vibes!
4. red off the shoulder top + navy linen shorts + ballet flats
She glows! She shines! She’s… standing in the sun.
On a more serious note, a pop of red is a great way to add vibrancy to your outfit. And it’s one of those colors that surprisingly matches almost everything in your wardrobe. Pink? Brown? Black? Blue? You betcha. Plus, it’s one of those colors that look good in all seasons. There’s just something about it!
5. striped sweater + blazer + crop jeans + sneakers
This outfit may look out of place with these summer looks, but I was going to spend the day in my office and was craving some fall vibes. (Don’t come at me, I still love summer!) This is just a preview of the fall looks to come, but whether it’s summer or fall, I’m always going to love stripes, blazers, and leopard print. What’s not to love?!
6. white blouse + mini skirt + sandals + straw bag
A white blouse is one of my favorite summer pieces. Though this one is a little sheer, I love how lightweight it is. It’s feminine and flowy and adds just enough interest without taking too much attention. This black mini skirt is also a favorite (you’ve seen me wear it multiple times). I just love how comfortable and versatile it is! Summer outfits to fall to winter – it does it all. To brighten up this piece for summer, I like to pair it with light brown and gold accessories and a straw bag.
7. vest + jeans + sandals + straw bag
This outfit combo is great for cooler summer days as well as the summer-to-fall outfit transition. We’re always talking about vests over here… we love them! They’re perfect for elevating your outfit without adding much bulk in the spring and summer. And when it comes to the cooler seasons, you can easily layer with this wardrobe workhouse (over button-ups, under blazers), providing you with a stylish look.
Summer Outfit Inspired
With a mix of wardrobe staples and statement pieces, these summer outfits are ready to become inspiration for you! Looking for more summer outfit ideas? Find them in my Wardrobe Diaries: 7 Days of Summer Outfits
Oh my goodness, you are gorgeous! I love the outfits, I think I can replicate them with pieces in my wardrobe. Keep inspiring!
Aw that is so sweet to say. And I’m glad you are able to replicate them!