I’m so pleased to have a fresh spring outfit to share with you today. But today’s post is not just about this particular outfit. Instead, I’d also like for us to focus on the spring style formula I used to create it. Having a few failproof style formulas in your arsenal will help you figure out what to wear for your day with little to no thought.
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Of course you don’t just have to use this style formula for spring. In fact, this outfit would serve you well through the summer, too. Here’s the formula:
One Color (top + jacket or other topper) + One Other Color (pants or skirt + shoes)
I think pairing a top with a jacket, cardigan or kimono in the same (or very similar) color is so chic. But here’s the thing. I often forget about this formula. My default is building a column of color by wearing the same color top and bottoms and then adding a contrasting color in a jacket or cardigan. And that is a fantastic, flattering style formula…for another day. But I really like the results I get when I think to wear a top and jacket in the same hue.
Of course, I’m a big fan of neutrals. But you could use this Spring style formula with, say, jeans and a pink top and pink blazer or sweater, too. The options are endless really.
This taupe colored linen blazer is a new purchase for me this spring. I showed one on the blog a couple of years ago, but I actually ended up returning that one. And I’ve missed it ever since! So I was thrilled when Talbots included this casual linen blazer in taupe. It does come in other pretty spring colors, too. But this taupe color is going to be so versatile in my spring and summer wardrobe. By the way, J.Crew Factory also has a nice linen blazer in different colors.
As soon as I had the blazer I started looking for tops in a similar color so that I could use this particular versatile style formula with it easily. When I came across this collared silk-blend sweater at J.Crew I knew I’d struck oil, so to speak. This versatile top is very lightweight and oh so comfortable, but it’s also very chic and classy. It does wear close to the body, but it has a lot of stretch in the fabric. So I’m comfortably wearing my usual size medium.
The collared silk-blend sweater also comes in black, but it’s available in fewer sizes (not mine!). The sweater is currently 30% off with code spring. I think this is one of my best purchases of the season. Remember, when wearing pants with a fuller silhouette it’s smart to wear a top that fits closet to the body. So this top will help create those desirable proportions with things like my full leg black linen pants.
I’m wearing the black demi boot pants from Talbots in my usual size 8. They have a flattering wide waistband with a front closure and sit at the true waistline. They are a cropped length with a slight kick flare silhouette. The demi boot pants are constructed in a comfortable cotton-poly blend twill with a good dose of Spandex for ease of movement. I really enjoy wearing these pants. And they also come in ivory and trending violet. Right now Talbots is offering 30% off pants and jeans. Watch for more savings later in the week.
I completed the style formula by wearing shoes in the same colors as my pants. My black woven Nappa sandals are almost sold out, but these Mimi Vacchetta crisscross sandals would achieve the same look. And if you’d prefer a low-heel option, I’d suggest these Capri wedge sandals. Those would be so versatile and the V vamp (that’s the top of the shoe) is really flattering.
I accessorized my neutral on neutral look with classy black and gold jewelry. I’m wearing my black Kendra Scott Muriel Pendant (no longer available in black), Abbie bangle and black dial Nordgreen Philosopher watch. The Philosopher is not currently available with a black dial, but other Nordgreen watches are. Use my code KAYHRMS for 15% off your purchase at Nordgreen. I’m also wearing my Kendra Scott split hoop earrings, but you can barely see them in any of these photos.
My Kate Spade milk glass and black colorblocked shoulder bag worked perfectly with this duo tone combination. The leather in this bag is so soft and supple. It’s quite roomy inside, but also has nice compartments for organization. And the flat bottom helps this bag sit up nicely on its own. Since I wear a lot of black even in the summer, I thought this bag would help lighten up those outfits nicely.
I hope you enjoyed today’s fashion post. I encourage you to take this simple but chic style formula to your closet and see how you can use it to create outfits from what you already own and in a way that reflects your personal style. I think you’ll get some great ideas!
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Blessed for My Day
The gospel has the power to save. Isn’t that amazing? My little blog posts may have the power to transform a few women’s wardrobes, but the gospel has demonstrated the power to transform lives in every generation, on every continent and in every circumstance imaginable. When people hear and receive the good news of Jesus Christ crucified, buried and risen, their lives are never the same. The trajectory changes and they become a new person from the inside out.
Do you remember when you first heard the good news? Maybe, like me, you grew up in a church hearing the gospel clearly presented from the cradle to the pew. Or maybe you heard the gospel from a parent, grandparent or friend. Think about when you first heard that God had made a way for you to have a relationship with Him. How has that message changed your life since then? That’s something to consider as we approach Easter.
And you also were included in Christ when you heard the message of truth, the gospel of your salvation. ~ Ephesians 1:13
This is so helpful. Kay!!!!!! I love the pairing of black and ivory/tan. So chic! And the purse really does lighten things up. I tend to also wear column of color with contract third piece. I like this idea.
Great formula! Anxious to see what outfits I can put together.
What a beautiful and classic outfit, Kay! As I was reading this post and looking at the photos, I started thinking about how I can use this formula with items that are in my closet now. So, thank you! Please pray for the southern states, including GA, as we could have damaging winds and/or tornadoes later today and into tomorrow.
Oh my. Stay safe!
Very classy outfit! I’m going to try this formula also. Thank you!
Cream beige and black make such a classic expensive looking outfit and you look wonderful in this combo. I also tend to wear column outfits by default. I have learned to always purchase either a sweater set, or tank and sweater set when they are available. I prefer wearing blazers or a matching jacket, but that combination is hard to find. I wish some retailers would offer more matching tops to go with jackets like Talbots often does,
What a great combo. Love it. I am learning SO much from you and putting it into practice with my wardrobe.
I wanted to share something I “learned” from you that was extra special. You mentioned that you and James watched All Creatures Great and Small. My husband and I are always on the look out for wholesome programs to watch as we don’t have TV service. We found the series at our local library and checked it out. We LOVED it. Can’t wait until they release the next ones.
I really enjoy your devotions as well.
Oh I’m so glad. We’ve recently been watching them over again. They’re just what we need some days because they are kind and relaxing. 😉
I agree. I had recorded the first season, but we hadn’t tried it yet. I read the books in the 70’s, and loved them. On your recommendation, we watched the first one and we’re hooked. Thank you for the little push we needed to watch it.