Feeling Summery

Yesterday's warm, misty weather carried the smell of summer. Inspired to come up with a light, airy look, I put together a ruffled cotton blouse, some laidback jeans, a printed silk scarf and a pair of laceless oxfords that make me feel like an old Italian man (in the best way).

Shirt: Target, $9      Jeans: Tilt, Plato's Closet, $15       Scarf: Gift from my mom      Shoes: Pour La Victoire, TJMaxx, $20

And, because the warmth didn't last, a more February-appropriate variation.

Blazer: Lux, Arizona Trading Company, $15      Leather Gloves: Belonged to my grandmother

A closer look at the menswear-inspired oxfords.

COMING SOON to the Etsy Shop

Bold colors for spring!

FUCHSIA SLOUCHY JUMPSUIT

TEAL GEOMETRIC TIERED RUFFLE SKIRT

PERIWINKLE SLEEVELESS ROMPER

RASPBERRY A-LINE SKIRT

All Aboard

Nautical inspiration was one of my favorite motifs on the spring runways. To achieve this look, go for horizontal stripes, a color palette of red, white and navy, gold accents, braided or rope details and anything else that reminds you of a sailor. Though it can be fun to go over-the-top with a theme, you can pick a single nautical element to avoid looking costumey. Try wearing horizontal stripes in an unexpected springy color.

This cute mod mini dress can really stand alone, so I usually keep accessories simple when I wear it. The scarf adds a hint of contrasting color and sailor charm. The tights and boots keep it appropriate for chilly weather.

Dress/shirt: Vintage, Plato's Closet, $4
Boots: Urban Outiftters, $10
Scarf: Vintage, gift

This casual look definitely doesn't take the theme too far. High-waisted wide-leg jeans have a sailor vibe, the gray and white striped top with gold buttons is subtly nautical and the red belt adds a pop of color.

Shirt: Target, $10
Jeans: Urban Outfitters, $10
Belt: Arizona Trading Company, $8
Shoes: alice + olivia for Payless, sample from work
Scarf: Vintage, gift

A nautical look doesn't have to be super casual. This slightly dressy look features go-to stripes and a satiny skirt in an unexpected golden color.

Shirt/dress: H&M, $28
Skirt: Forever21, $14
Shoes: alice + olivia for Payless, sample from work
Rope belt: Self made
Scarf: Vintage, gift

On the Runway: D&G Spring 2009 RTW. Image source: Style.com.

On the Runway: Michael Kors Spring 2009 RTW. Image source: Style.com.

A Nod to Mod

Channeling '60s icons like Jean Seberg with a mod striped sweater.

Sweater: Target, $5
Jeans: TJMaxx, $16
Scarf: Vintage, gift
Shoes: For sale, Kansas Couture Vintage

While really tempted to get a cute pixie cut like this, I'm afraid of looking too boyish.

Laidback Neutrals

Though not as bold as a colorful look, mixing several neutrals can create an interesting effect. Tan, white, gray, navy and brown come together for a laidback look.

Shirt/dress: Wet Seal, $12
Cardigan: Gift
Tights: Creation Station, $6
Boots: DSW, $48
Scarf: TJMaxx, $12
Belt: Belongs to my sister
Purse: Payless, sample from work

Why Shop Vintage?

Though I do my fair share of shopping at "fast fashion" retailers, I am a firm believer in the values of vintage shopping. Buying and wearing vintage is environmentally friendly. Why buy newly manufactured clothing when so many fabulous items already exist? Vintage clothing makes it easy to express distinct personal style. How lame is it to run into someone wearing the same garment as you? Vintage items boast better quality. In the past, the manufacture of clothing was held to a higher standard. Even if a garment is decades old, chances are it will be of better quality than a brand new item.

Modern Bohemian

The suede skirt, ruffled peasant blouse and gladiator sandals give this look a bohemian vibe, the cropped blazer and tailored silhouette lend city-girl sensibility, and the bold printed tights add some color and complexity.

Shirt: Target, $9
Skirt: Thrifted, $5
Blazer: Arizona Trading Company, $15
Tights: Forever 21, $6
Shoes: Patricia Field for Payless, sample from work

Call for Entries!

Enter Lucky Style Spotter's latest contest for a chance to win a collection of accessories from Lacoste.

Courtesy of Lucky, I will be giving away three of these Jennifer Rose necklaces to Kansas Couture readers who enter the contest. Send me a link to your entry through Couture Q&A for a chance to win.

What I Want For Spring

super strappy heels
(gojane.com)

a bag with lots of fringe
(forever21.com)

a loose, silky jumpsuit
(Diane von Furstenburg 
Image source: Style.com)

skinny trousers
(Andy & Debb 
Image source: Style.com)

Lazy Sunday

A comfortable, casual variation on the belted cardigan theme.

Shirt: Forever 21, $14
Cardigan: H&M, $10
Jeans: Guess, TJMaxx, $28
Boots: DSW, $48
Bag: Arizona Trading Company, $10

Layers and Mixed Patterns

For this Friday night look, I knew I wanted to wear a skirt, cardigan and belt. I started with a high-waisted suede skirt and a tucked-in floral top. It didn't look quite right. I swapped the longer skirt for a mini, wore an untucked shirt and used the belt to emphasize my waist. The simple nautical stripes and neutral colors of the top made it easy to mix with the floral pattern of the skirt. As usual, I finished the look with ankle boots and a statement necklace. Much better!

Dress/Shirt: H&M, $28
Skirt: Forever 21, $14
Leggings: Old Navy, $5
Cardigan: H&M, $10
Shoes: Payless, sample from work

Lovely Bloggin' Ladies

If you haven't already, check out the fabulous blogs of Jessica and Turner. I was lucky enough to hang out with these two in New York! Talk about inspiring company.

What I Wore
Jessica gives readers a daily dose of her distinctive vintage-inspired style. With the know-how of a chic big city girl and the down-to-earth charm of a Midwesterner, she has won the admiration of readers worldwide.

Turnstyle
Turner, an exceptionally talented stylist, shares witty musings, inspiration, photos and more.

A Few Favs from the Etsy Shop

Wine Red Pencil Skirt

Blouse: Reruns, $6
Skirt: For sale, Kansas Couture Vintage
Belt: For sale, Kansas Couture Vintage
Purse: For sale, Kansas Couture Vintage
Shoes: Payless, sample from work

Sporty Hooded Dress

Dress: For sale, Kansas Couture Vintage

On the Runway: Alexander Wang Spring 2009 RTW. Image source: Style.com.

Mini Sequin Sweater Dress

Dress: For sale, Kansas Couture Vintage

Shoes: For sale, Kansas Couture Vintage

Colorblock Top

Top: For sale, Kansas Couture Vintage

Skirt: Old Navy, $10

Shoes: Payless, sample from work

On the Runway: Missoni Resort 2009. Image source: Style.com.

New at Kansas Couture Vintage...

WHITE BOOTS

A Beautiful Day

The warm weather made it so fun to get dressed. I love the urban feel of the windbreaker and gold bling coupled with the boho scarf and boots.

Jacket: Hawks for Urban Outfitters, $10
Shorts: H&M, $10
Tights: Urban Outfitters, gift
Boots: alice+olivia for Payless, sample from work
Scarf: TJMaxx, $12

My sister Ella looking timelessly sophisticated in a cropped trench.