Oh my, thank you all so much! You ladies sure know how to make a gal feel loved ^^ Including #5 (and to a lesser extent #8) was probably cheating a bit Happy to hear that these outfits resonated; it has taken me a long time
to figure out how to feel happy in my hot-weather casual outfits (Joy is spot on about my needing to keep a little glam element), and I do still struggle a bit when it's for something decidedly active.
Lisa, thank you very much <3 I hope these were of some help to you, I think of your style as even further polished and refined than mine so I could see how really casual stuff, which seems to be necessary in the heat, could be tough (it is for me too). You've also got some pretty fabulous pieces, missey! My biggest hurdle is to allow myself to/make myself spend $$ on casual clothing (which I don't find interesting) and then actually, you know, wear those things out and about. What's the worst that could happen, a tee needs replacing? There'll always be something fun and new to replace it with, and hey at least casual clothing tends to be less expensive. Going for natural fibers helps a lot too, though that ups the expense a bit.
Svetlana, that would be super fun! I have a feeling we could probably share a few tops and jackets
Suz, hmm good thoughts on #9. After thinking on it, I think perhaps it was more of a feeling thing than a visual thing -- Those pants are quite roomy and I seem to feel best in them when they're paired with a silky top, NOT rolling the hems, and wearing heels; and then that tank was one of those fitted ribbed numbers, which I'm never comfortable in. Easily remedied for future wears, at least!
Maneera, aw thank you! Happy to inspire It took a LOT of experimentation both at first and ongoing (and of course there are still days now when it's tough, we all have those) but it's definitely possible to get to a place where it feels natural. I don't know if you are a mood dresser, but if so, it may be worth jotting down a few notes about how particular items in outfits made you feel in addition to the outfits themselves (at least to start with). For casual clothing in particular, I find that balancing the form and function can be deceptive without some actual "field testing" data, you know? Sometimes the reality, whether feeling or usage, is surprising.
Jaime, I appreciate the wonderful detailed comment, hugs to you!
Joy, YES I think that is the key for me -- Somehow try and incorporate just a little glam. I definitely feel my best, in any outfit really, when that's an element! Tough to do with true casual wear sometimes, but I think it boils down to not worrying about the pieces and quit being precious and just wear them already. Easier said than done sometimes.
Denise, ooh Milan! Usually my favorite street style to peruse during Fashion Week (what can I say, I loves me some sparkle). Boho-Lite is usually my go-to in summer for sure, though I am happy to hear the glam rocker is coming through more (something I've been working on).
Summer, yes patterns are a key element for my casual wear. With my focus on Minimally Maximal, I feel like solids don't pack enough punch for these simpler types of outfits. Prints get me a lot of visual bang!
Jackie, I find it hard to believe those crops hit you lower than mine do, you're several inches taller than me (and mine are like 1/3 down my calves). I actually wish they were an inch shorter, but this length is OK. They are fitted enough that I can scootch them up a tick to get them to a more flattering place, is that something you could do too? And definitely too hot to wear them now, which I won't at all complain about ^^