Here’s the first tunic shirt outfit in action and I’ve chosen to wear it casually. I opted for a white tunic shirt with fun side entry pockets because crisp white cotton-rich button downs are close to  my heart. But you can choose any colour or pattern in a similar silhouette and the look will translate just as well.

I’ve matched the tunic shirt with faded jeans, 20 eyelet Dr. Martens and a slouchy handbag. I’ve accessorized with a dainty vintage pearl necklace. The biker jacket will keep me warm if it gets chilly.

Remember that I’m wearing the tunic shirt true to my style, which might not be to your taste. For example, you can substitute my combination with boot cut jeans, casual ankle boots, a blazer and scarf if that’s more your look.

I prefer my tunic shirt loose and flowing because it spells arty and fun. But you can also add a waist-cinching belt for more structure. I also like to pop the collar and scrunch up the sleeves of all my shirts for extra textural interest. The effect is a thrown together, yet pulled together look.

Simple, clean, easy and very comfortable.

Tomorrow I’ll cover how to wear the tunic shirt in a smart casual setting. This will be an easier interpretation because button down shirts are generally thought of as more dressy than casual.

The long button down shirt wafts in and out of fashion. We saw it make a huge statement in the 80’s and then it disappeared. It came back in the 90’s sans shoulder pads, but disappeared again. It’s been an on and off trend during the noughties too, especially since the resurgence of tunic length tops. I don’t know if the tunic shirt will ever be as popular as it was back in the 80’s but it’s making a strong comeback for 2010.

I fully understand the challenges with classic, hip-length button down shirts because they are hard to fit. As soon as they work on the bust, they’re ill-fitting everywhere else. Or they’re too short, too long, too constricting, too boxy, too matronly, or just too blah. But hear me out because the new roomier button down tunic (or tunic shirt) might change your mind.

This style is not as voluminous as the painters shirt, but not all that tailored either, meaning you’ll get away with a boxier silhouette. In fact that’s how the style is supposed to look. Leave it free flowing over skinnies or cigarette pants, adding heels and a statement necklace. Pop the collar and scrunch up the sleeves for instant textural sass. Or add a belt for extra waist definition. If you’re allergic to belts, layer over a fitted item like a jacket or cardigan for more structure. Empire cut tunic shirts are also an option if you prefer torso definition and volume on the tummy and hip area.

A well made tunic shirt can be worn casually, smart casually, incorporated into a biz casual ensemble and take you to a semi-formal event. I’m going to show you how this week so stay tuned.

I’ve been a button down gal forever. I think of the item as a vehicle that enables other items to shine and not just as a wow-top that stands alone. So needless to say, I adore the tunic shirt because it looks crisp and has endless versatile layering possibilities. Remember that you don’t need to choose white either. Some colours look more crisp than others, but most colours in this silhouette are fab.

I don’t love camo print, but I don’t loathe it either. I can appreciate items in camouflage print when they’re very feminine and worn in a dressy way because it’s an unexpected interpretation. And in the name of creative fashion, that’s fab. Items like drapey silk blouses, soft breezy dresses, slinky scarves, the odd handbag and high heeled shoes spring to mind.

But as soon as camouflage looks casual, I’m turned off because it reminds me a little too much of authentic combat wear. For example, baggy shorts and cargo pocket pants in stiff cotton fabrications, distressed twill jackets, rugged T-shirts and sneakers leave me cold. Looks cute on kids, teens and adult blokes for that matter, but somehow, I can’t get my head around it for ladieswear.

Oh-so-90’s camouflage print is trending. If the items look pretty and dressy like the ones above, I vote yay, otherwise I vote nay. How about you? Do you like camouflage print ?

Panties (or knickers and undies as I like to call them) are an incredibly personal thing. What works for one person might not work for another. I’ve found that there is absolutely no panty preference consistency with my clients. Everyone is into something different and is usually looking for an improved version of what they currently have. For comfort reasons, style and fabric are of extreme importance, not to mention price, durability and  aesthetics. Some prefer cotton-rich bikini cuts or synthetic high-cuts, while others prefer lacy thongs. Some prefer neutrals whereas others prefer colours. With such an abundance of panty variety, it seems insane that we still struggle to find that perfect pair.

My preference is boyshorts. I love the coverage that this style provides and enjoy their retro flavour. For a while I wore Jockey’s modern modal brief. Then I switched to Soma’s boyshorts which were great until the dryer started stretching them out. I have since discovered Nordstrom underwear brand “Shimera” and I’m hooked. I can’t get enough of their boyshorts.  They are seamless, lightweight and stay put. So far, they launder well too, so I’m stocking up for my happy buns.

What do you look for in panties? Care to share your fab panty finds?

The price isn’t bad either (you’ll save $2 per pair if you purchase three at a time).