My summer wardrobe is coming together beautifully. These comfy orange braided leather sandals came and are in "walking around the house testing" as we speak. I love the simple crochet detail on the Old Navy tank--just enough to punch it up without being overdone. I found the brown leather wrap bracelet I have been seeking (not this one posted, though I love the fishhook closure!), which has a lightweight feel and effortlessness to it I really wanted.
Showing posts with label summer looks. Show all posts
Showing posts with label summer looks. Show all posts
Friday, June 6, 2014
Tuesday, June 3, 2014
Dressing 4 Disney - Gettin the Blues
A quick trip to Lane Bryant to return some online purchases turned into...more shopping. I came home with the most unexpected top--a lightweight envelope-back sweater tee. I thought it would chop m torso up, but it ended up looking really adorable. Paired with a navy blue tank, some gold jewelry, and the now-famous (in my house) white pedal pushers, this outfit would be a great snappy-casual evening look. Drinks around the world, anyone?
Sunday, June 1, 2014
Disney World in Summer - What I Want to Fix
Alright, so the last time we were in Disney World was in winter--the first week of December to be exact. And I will see what I can find clothing wise for photos from that one. But here are some photos from our last summer trip. What was going on in my world of theme park fashion back in 2007? Unabashed Croc wearing on my part, for starters. Hey, they're comfy, and I still don't judge anyone who wears them. But the classic Crocs are not fashionable, full stop. It's a choice to wear them despite that fact...and choice I have made not to do.
Alright, here is one of my more egregious fashion faux pas. Comfortable without question. Great for a dance class (which is what this all is--dancewear!), but for fashion, theme park or otherwise? Oh 2007 Shay *shaking my head*...you so funny. Note ubiquitous Overland Equipment bag. It's a theme.
Me and my baby in "China" (with Pal Mickey! Oh how I miss him.). A-line tank, jean shorts, and probably Crocs or tennis shoes. Note the bag, no accessorizing of any sort.
My "nice night out" for my birthday at Narcoossee. Delicious dinner, views of Wishes fireworks across Bay Lake...and a plain black jersey dress with a very casual necklace. Again, comfortable, but not much of a boosted style profile for evening. I mean, this doesn't look that different from the dance clothes I wore in the first pic, right? I could be wearing cropped palazzo pants and Crocs out of frame for all you know (I wasn't, but now you can't unsee it...). I swear I had a different handbag, no crossbody or ripstop nylon to be seen.
I think my shoes were probably my black braided leather thongs with kitten heels. Similar to the image below, but with a heel. I am pretty sure my brain just went "Heel! That means fancy!" *facepalm*
So there's a little perspective on what I wore in the past. A "where I came from", if you will. Where I hope to end up is what this blog is all about!
Alright, here is one of my more egregious fashion faux pas. Comfortable without question. Great for a dance class (which is what this all is--dancewear!), but for fashion, theme park or otherwise? Oh 2007 Shay *shaking my head*...you so funny. Note ubiquitous Overland Equipment bag. It's a theme.
Me and my baby in "China" (with Pal Mickey! Oh how I miss him.). A-line tank, jean shorts, and probably Crocs or tennis shoes. Note the bag, no accessorizing of any sort.
My "nice night out" for my birthday at Narcoossee. Delicious dinner, views of Wishes fireworks across Bay Lake...and a plain black jersey dress with a very casual necklace. Again, comfortable, but not much of a boosted style profile for evening. I mean, this doesn't look that different from the dance clothes I wore in the first pic, right? I could be wearing cropped palazzo pants and Crocs out of frame for all you know (I wasn't, but now you can't unsee it...). I swear I had a different handbag, no crossbody or ripstop nylon to be seen.
I think my shoes were probably my black braided leather thongs with kitten heels. Similar to the image below, but with a heel. I am pretty sure my brain just went "Heel! That means fancy!" *facepalm*
So there's a little perspective on what I wore in the past. A "where I came from", if you will. Where I hope to end up is what this blog is all about!
Dressing 4 Disney - One Skirt A Dozen Ways
In our family, we TRY to share a single checked bag and bring our carry-ons and call it good. Methinks this upcoming trip will be harder to accomplish this, thanks to...well...Dressing 4 Disney. Ha! BUT this just creates another challenge, right?
Mixing and matching is the only way to get a week's worth of fashion into one checked bag. Here is a simple mid-calf jersey skirt I own from Old Navy, and a bunch of options for snazzy combinations, day and evening. (It's all about OPTIONS!)With my stretched ears I can't usually wear dangly earrings like these, but they were both so lovely I had to include them. The belts? They come as a three-pack! Aren't they adorable? I have found belts do a LOT to pull otherwise drab outfits together for me. One could easily include a shrug, sweater, or lightweight linen shirt in this collection for cooler evenings and yet more options.
Mixing and matching is the only way to get a week's worth of fashion into one checked bag. Here is a simple mid-calf jersey skirt I own from Old Navy, and a bunch of options for snazzy combinations, day and evening. (It's all about OPTIONS!)With my stretched ears I can't usually wear dangly earrings like these, but they were both so lovely I had to include them. The belts? They come as a three-pack! Aren't they adorable? I have found belts do a LOT to pull otherwise drab outfits together for me. One could easily include a shrug, sweater, or lightweight linen shirt in this collection for cooler evenings and yet more options.
Dressing for Disney - Beachy Flair
I now own white pedal pushers.
White.
Pedal pushers.
Like...non-ironically.
That fact will not seem strange to many, but here in Seattle, the old "Don't wear white after Labor Day" would usually be better summed up by "Don't wear white...ever." We don't wear a lot of white. We are plenty white already without any help, thanks to nine months of grey skies and drizzle. But when putting together looks for balmy Florida, this fantasy of mine came to the surface.
You see, white pants are something I have never felt I could pull off. No, not just geographically speaking, but just...me. I am a plus-sized 5'3", so white and light colors are something I shy away from and instead favor either saturated colors (like orange, fuscia, turquoise) or earth tones (deep plum, navy blue, burgundy). And of course black, the universal weight-loss miracle color. There is this world of pastels, neons, and whites that live outside of my vision--I can see it out of the corner of my eye, but I will not look directly at it.
To me, white always looks so carefree and beachy. Like I should be on the deck of my boat with the wind in my hair, sipping champagne. Or strolling down some avenue perusing the shop windows for my next Hermes scarf or Birkin bag. Why I associate white pants with such extravagance, I will never be able to pinpoint, but there it is. So when I was skimming through various fashion blog posts and online catalogs, and invariably all the summery white dresses and shorts and sarongs are on display for the season, I felt the call...and I answered the challenge.
I knew I had this green and white swingy A-line tank and thought it would go great with some white shorts or capris. The pedal pushers at Lane Bryant looked cute and were on 50% sale, so I snagged them.
I am happy to say I have since received them, tried them on, and decided yes...I CAN wear white pants. They fit well and look cute (in my opinion of course), and bonus, as a true neutral they go with tons of other items in my summer wardrobe for mixing and matching. Now, to get my skin to contrast just a teensy bit more...
 |
| Yeah, like that. |
I am happy to say I have since received them, tried them on, and decided yes...I CAN wear white pants. They fit well and look cute (in my opinion of course), and bonus, as a true neutral they go with tons of other items in my summer wardrobe for mixing and matching. Now, to get my skin to contrast just a teensy bit more...
Friday, May 30, 2014
Trashy Diva hits the parks
If you love retro fashion and are not familiar with Trashy Diva, then you need to remedy that immediately. Here, let me help:
http://www.trashydiva.com/post/what-i-wore-to-disney-world/
She took a trip to Walt Disney World and took photos to share her Disney fashion sense. Her heels? ACK! I am amazed when people can walk all day in them, but that's not for me. The dresses? Oh yeah, I could rock those.
As far as theme park fashion, in her words:
And while you're at it, also check out:
http://www.trashydiva.com/post/What-I-Wore-Fit-For-A-Disney-Princess/
Way more reasonable shoes. I think my bias is showing. :)
http://www.trashydiva.com/post/what-i-wore-to-disney-world/
She took a trip to Walt Disney World and took photos to share her Disney fashion sense. Her heels? ACK! I am amazed when people can walk all day in them, but that's not for me. The dresses? Oh yeah, I could rock those.
As far as theme park fashion, in her words:
"If you haven't been to Disney World, don't think you have to hold hands with Mickey while wearing a Disney T-shirt with flip flops & eat fast food burgers everyday. You can if you want - and many people do - but it is what you make it! ~ Candice"I couldn't have said it better myself!
And while you're at it, also check out:
http://www.trashydiva.com/post/What-I-Wore-Fit-For-A-Disney-Princess/
Way more reasonable shoes. I think my bias is showing. :)
Monday, May 26, 2014
Dressing 4 Disney - Hipster in the House of Mouse
Anytime there are owls, giant glasses, and fedoras, it makes me think of hipsters. I don't care, I love the look. Pop of orange/coral makes the darker browns and navy blues of this outfit a bit more exciting. How cute is the owl purse, I mean seriously?
Super comfy Merrell sandals make walking easy (though I included my fantasy yellow All Star high tops as well, though my feet have been too wide to wear them most of my adult life).
Saturday, May 24, 2014
Dressing 4 Disney - Beat the Heat
I actually have many of the components in my closet right now: the cargo bermuda shorts (a bit lighter blue), the top, sunglasses and necklace, and a flower much like this one. The shoes, bag, and bracelet are my creative additions, as are the specific makeup and nail looks I added for a little extra somethin'.
Wednesday, May 21, 2014
Dressing 4 Disney - Keepin' it Real
Alright, here we have a typical look for yours truly. Back in Seattle, I wear a lot of different looks, from vintage/retro looks to schlumpy jeans and tees. In Disney, a pair of shorts or cargos, a cotton tee or tank, and some walking shoes or sandals are the fashion of the day. I have a canvas/nylon cross-body bag that I wear every day, and I pretty much don't accessorize save for sunglasses and earrings/plugs of choice unless it is a "night out". But without the simple necklace and bracelet, this outfit feels a little drab...
I was noting to myself recently that jewelry/accessorizing is kind of my final fashion frontier, as it were. I got somewhat into hair in my 20's, but hit my stride when I hit 30 and could afford a rocking stylist. I got into fashion still later in life (early 30's), followed by shoes and makeup ( http://www.beautyalong.com !!). But other than in my other life as a tribal bellydancer, where wearing your dowry is simply a must, I don't wear jewelry as a matter of course. I will wear a necklace and bracelet with a dressy outfit...sometimes... but since I am out of practice with wearing such things, they tend to feel heavy, itch, ache, or otherwise annoy pretty quickly. Invariably I take it off before the end of the night and stuff it in my purse out of annoyance.
So I am IN JEWELRY TRAINING as we speak. Laugh if you must, but I am. I went out and bought a bunch of cheap jewelry at Forever 21 and the Macy's weekend sale (got some Lucky Brand jewelry at full price I couldn't resist, though...). I laid it all out on my bed alongside any other pieces I had...and it wasn't much, my friends. I just don't wear jewelry. I have been wearing a necklace and/or bracelet every day lately to try and get used to the sensation. I know that even if I get used to wearing jewelry here in Seattle, when I hit Florida sauna-like weather, they may just stay in the room. But darnit, I am going to try. Because I recognize that a simple addition of a necklace, bracelet, and/or a coordinating bag can do WONDERS for otherwise simple and forgettable outfits. Since I can't bring my entire shoe collection with me, and most of them would be way too impractical for theme park enjoyment, jewelry will have to be my stand-in for bumping my fashion meter.
I was noting to myself recently that jewelry/accessorizing is kind of my final fashion frontier, as it were. I got somewhat into hair in my 20's, but hit my stride when I hit 30 and could afford a rocking stylist. I got into fashion still later in life (early 30's), followed by shoes and makeup ( http://www.beautyalong.com !!). But other than in my other life as a tribal bellydancer, where wearing your dowry is simply a must, I don't wear jewelry as a matter of course. I will wear a necklace and bracelet with a dressy outfit...sometimes... but since I am out of practice with wearing such things, they tend to feel heavy, itch, ache, or otherwise annoy pretty quickly. Invariably I take it off before the end of the night and stuff it in my purse out of annoyance.
So I am IN JEWELRY TRAINING as we speak. Laugh if you must, but I am. I went out and bought a bunch of cheap jewelry at Forever 21 and the Macy's weekend sale (got some Lucky Brand jewelry at full price I couldn't resist, though...). I laid it all out on my bed alongside any other pieces I had...and it wasn't much, my friends. I just don't wear jewelry. I have been wearing a necklace and/or bracelet every day lately to try and get used to the sensation. I know that even if I get used to wearing jewelry here in Seattle, when I hit Florida sauna-like weather, they may just stay in the room. But darnit, I am going to try. Because I recognize that a simple addition of a necklace, bracelet, and/or a coordinating bag can do WONDERS for otherwise simple and forgettable outfits. Since I can't bring my entire shoe collection with me, and most of them would be way too impractical for theme park enjoyment, jewelry will have to be my stand-in for bumping my fashion meter.
Dressing 4 Disney - Meet the Mouse
I am not afraid of full-on whimsy when it comes to Disney. I wear my ears loud and proud. Doesn't the Big Cheese himself deserve a little homage? I think so! I would be proud to shake his hand wearing this look, and I would be comfortable in the heat at the same time.
I bought this Old Navy dress in XL Petite and it fits me like a GLOVE. Bought it in three more colors while they were available. I wear Luvees or Jockey Skimmies under my dresses in summer to prevent rashy thighs and to add a little modesty protection when getting around town (or in the case of the parks, on and off rides).
My Mac Russian Red lipstick would look stellar with this look. And I think I just might get my nails done like this before I fly out on my upcoming trip. Ya know...to get in the spirit!
I bought this Old Navy dress in XL Petite and it fits me like a GLOVE. Bought it in three more colors while they were available. I wear Luvees or Jockey Skimmies under my dresses in summer to prevent rashy thighs and to add a little modesty protection when getting around town (or in the case of the parks, on and off rides).
My Mac Russian Red lipstick would look stellar with this look. And I think I just might get my nails done like this before I fly out on my upcoming trip. Ya know...to get in the spirit!
Dressing 4 Disney - Around The World Showcase
I saw the dress at Dress Barn online and HOPED it would be adorable in person. IT WAS! It fits me like it was made for me--not too long, not too short. It's light and gauzy but without being limp or see-through. I took inspiration from my favorite park/part of a park, World Showcase, and accessorized accordingly. The heels are incredibly comfortable, I walked all over a mall shopping recently to test them out. I could easily wear them a half-day at the parks without pain!
Monday, May 19, 2014
Welcome to Dressing 4 Disney! Let's Get Disney Fashion Forward!
Hello and welcome to my Dressing 4 Disney Blog!
This has been inspired by my next trip to Disney World coming up this summer, and my desire to dress a little more fashionably than I have in the past. Comfort is king for me, with the incredible heat, and all the stand up sit down walk walk walk! Air conditioning inside, 90+ degrees outside, rain squalls, soaked on one ride, racing through the air on another...it's like dressing for 2-3 seasons while hiking a mountain...and now I want to look FASHIONABLE??
Yes. Yes I do.
And if you're here, maybe you do, too.
There are a lot of fantastic Disney fashion blogs out there, but most of them focus on
a) "fantasy" outfits themed to characters, attractions, parks (think the incredibly popular and oft-copied DisneyBound),
b) still more "fantasy" outfits, piling on layers of jewelry, bulky name brand handbags, and ridiculously high heels, none of which work for a long day in the parks, or
c) teenagers in teensy weensy cutoff jean shorts and shirts with cute cartoons and flirty phrases
I love DisneyBounding, and the creativity using an artful blend of colors, textures, and detailed accessorizing is really inspiring; but it isn't realistic or practical. It's a mish-mash of whatever items Polyvore has in its database, ignoring any actual availability, pricing, sizing...basically, nobody has these things in their closet. The fantasy outfits depict ensembles worthy of a spread in a magazine, which is equally unrealistic unless you are a stick thin supermodel who actually only lives in the pages of a fashion magazine (hello in there!). And the teenagers? They're the real deal. Probably the closest to real park wear of the three...but good only until you're about 21. After that...you might want to up your game (and lower your hemline?)
You'd have to be madder than a hatter to wear some of the looks these sites and Polyvore accounts proffer (see what I did there??!. So what is a 30-something, 40-something, 50 and beyond avid parkgoer to do when they want find ideas for dressing "their age" while still feeling put together, fashion forward, and still comfortable and practical enough to see us through long hot days on the theme park pavement? Why, make my own freaking Polyvore sets and collections, start a Facebook page to bring together some like-minded folks, and BLOG ABOUT IT!
Would love to hear about your adventures in fashion in Disney. What do you do to make yourself look a little more stylish, while still being theme-park savvy? Stay tuned for some inspiration boards, based on REAL CLOTHES I would wear to the parks. Sure, there will be a few fantasy elements in there--what's the fun in only living in the real world? But my goal is to create looks that "Everywoman" (and maybe even later "Everyman") would truly wear. Clothes that wear well, wash well, fit well, flatter, pack well. Is that so much to ask? I say NO!
Let's do this thing.
This has been inspired by my next trip to Disney World coming up this summer, and my desire to dress a little more fashionably than I have in the past. Comfort is king for me, with the incredible heat, and all the stand up sit down walk walk walk! Air conditioning inside, 90+ degrees outside, rain squalls, soaked on one ride, racing through the air on another...it's like dressing for 2-3 seasons while hiking a mountain...and now I want to look FASHIONABLE??
Yes. Yes I do.
And if you're here, maybe you do, too.
There are a lot of fantastic Disney fashion blogs out there, but most of them focus on
a) "fantasy" outfits themed to characters, attractions, parks (think the incredibly popular and oft-copied DisneyBound),
b) still more "fantasy" outfits, piling on layers of jewelry, bulky name brand handbags, and ridiculously high heels, none of which work for a long day in the parks, or
c) teenagers in teensy weensy cutoff jean shorts and shirts with cute cartoons and flirty phrases
I love DisneyBounding, and the creativity using an artful blend of colors, textures, and detailed accessorizing is really inspiring; but it isn't realistic or practical. It's a mish-mash of whatever items Polyvore has in its database, ignoring any actual availability, pricing, sizing...basically, nobody has these things in their closet. The fantasy outfits depict ensembles worthy of a spread in a magazine, which is equally unrealistic unless you are a stick thin supermodel who actually only lives in the pages of a fashion magazine (hello in there!). And the teenagers? They're the real deal. Probably the closest to real park wear of the three...but good only until you're about 21. After that...you might want to up your game (and lower your hemline?)
Would love to hear about your adventures in fashion in Disney. What do you do to make yourself look a little more stylish, while still being theme-park savvy? Stay tuned for some inspiration boards, based on REAL CLOTHES I would wear to the parks. Sure, there will be a few fantasy elements in there--what's the fun in only living in the real world? But my goal is to create looks that "Everywoman" (and maybe even later "Everyman") would truly wear. Clothes that wear well, wash well, fit well, flatter, pack well. Is that so much to ask? I say NO!
Let's do this thing.
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