Wearing a Vest in the Summer: Three Outfits from One Vest

My friend, Loreal, and I were complaining about how hard it is to dress in outfits during summer. Both of us crave layering like we would die without it. If an outfit cannot be adorned with cardigans, leggings, and scarves, then it just is not an outfit. Likewise, when you are in the midst of 100+ degree weather, jeans and a tank top are way too boring to accept as an everyday option. My friends, I give you the solution- VEST! Here are three different ways I've worn my vest from New York & Co. during the last week.


1. Casual

My tailored short denim shorts are a summer favorite, I love the length on them! The vest works because I have a long top on and allow the vest to define my waist. Paired with a chunky necklace and gladiator sandals makes this a great option for shopping, going to a BBQ or even a lunch date.

2. Business

Since I have a tattoo near my elbow, it is important for me to have elbow length tops for work. I tried to go to a meeting with a cardigan on and ended up standing in the sun, in 105 degree weather! By adding this vest, I can choose a light-weight top and still look professional. 

3. Date Night

It may be a surprise to some, but I do not take myself too seriously, not at all. I bought this red, jersey knit dress (also from NY&Co) and, while I love it, it is super sexy. It is hard for me to just say, "check me out in my hot red dress!" By dressing it down a bit with boots and my super cute vest, it allows me to still hint at sexiness but not be in-you-face about it.

If you are crazing a vest of your own, I strongly suggest checking out New York & Co. They have lots of sizes and all of the vests are nicely made and tailored. Have fun trying to layer this summer!

59 Days of Style: Day 56-59: The End Of My Challenge

Day 59... Amazing that I completed this challenge. My clothing is way more personal than I thought it would be. I will admit that, looking back on the past 59 days, I did have some blunders. The core of this challenge was to be creative with my outfit choices by wearing a new combination each day without repeat or adding to my freshly cleaned out closet. Learning first how to dress my body by having a wardrobe overhaul by Minh Le, then taking those tools and really using them has shown me a new side of myself. A classier, more polished version of myself. In high school I was always complimented for my "unique" style which was mainly made up of old-lady thrift store clothes. Matching was boring and the more colors I could thrown in one outfit, the better. I have come a long way from there! With my new tools, and some new favorite outfits, my style has transformed from "unique" to beautiful, fun, polished and maybe even a bit sexy ;)

Inspired by my friend Loreal's Italian flair, I layered dark pieces with a scarf.

Going to the 2011 Wiener Festival had to wear jeans and a T, good thing I have my doxie pin my friend Cate gave me!

I don't know what I was thinking. Trying to wear this skirt has always been hard for me.

Last day! Love having light, short sleeve cardis to put over tanks for a more layered spring look.

Now that my 59 day challenge has ended I'm working on coming up with some ideas for a new challenge, preferably a shorter one so I don't lose interest. I am off to the airport in 3 hours to go to San Padro, Belize for vacation. I'll start my blog back up with a nod to vacation style. Thanks for reading!

59 Days of Style Day 46 & 47: Remedy for Spring Fashion

Alright now, Mr. Weather, what's going on? Just moving down to Temecula from Ventura I'm not used to all the fluctuations in temperature. Do I wear a sweater or a tank top? Gee whiz! What I've settled on doing is wearing 3/4 sleeves with sandals, like on Monday (Day 44). Now, remember, I cannot wear the same outfit twice, so creativity is key.

Boyfriend slouchy jeans (Day 3 Day 27) are always fun to pair with a feminine top. Love this cardigan (Day 30), which is the perfect spring balance to my MIA gladiator sandals.

I love how the make my legs look longer! Zipper back is my favorite detail.

This Banana Republic 3/4 sleeve top (Day 2) makes this outfit more business appropriate. I'm also happy to say my new haircut looks great curly too! It always makes me nervousness to style my hair different than my hairstylist does when she cuts it.

Peacock Smoky Eye made with one of my favorite Arbonne eyeshadows- Blue Slate- is a great way to feel glamorous when doing the normal work and errands day.











I've almost exhausted my wardrobe! Since I have only 12 more days left, I want you to help me put together an outfit. Simple email, or comment with a list of the items you think would look good together. You can describe the pieces or tell me which day I wore the them on. I'm open to makeup and hair suggestions too!