Pleated Star Week in Review

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Our eleventh POW (Piece of the Week) is the Pleated Star Skirt from Canvas by Lands’ End, a pretty pleated skirt with a descending star print. This skirt is perfect for summer, but can be rocked in fall too. With its soft femininity, we tended to mix it with tough contrasts, for fun and pretty, strong and feminine style. We learned how to style it for a geek chic look, a special occasion with a walk on the beach, with a crisp white blouse for work, nautical business casual, and more. We focused on some great transitional summer-to-fall tips and easy changes. We even highlighted some versatile piece s to style it with like the It’s a Wrap Shirt and the Recess Tank and Recess Topper. What a versatile skirt! Plus, many of these styles and tips can be applied to another pleated or fancy skirt.

 

Let’s dive in to reviewing the seven looks. Which is your favorite?

Nautical On-trend Librarian Manic Monday: Mix a casual, graphic tank with a pretty skirt and classic cardigan for Manic Monday outfit.

Outfit: Pleated Star Skirt from Canvas by Lands’ End, 3/4 Sleeve Favorite Cardigan by Merona from Target, Ahoy Tank from cabi spring 2012, Older Aerosoles, Crazy Lace Agate Sterling Silver Cuff Bracelet by Solid Treasures, Citrine Crystal Wire Wrapped Pendant on Vintage Brass Chain by Shine Chaser Jewelry, Mermaid Earrings by Kelly Annie,  No Slip Grip Skinny Headbands by SCUNCI from Target.

Posted: October 03, 2016

Sail away with me by visiting the post!

Cozy Layers Four Ways and a Mom Bun Tuesday: Dress down your pretty skirt with casual, comfortable layers and a mom bun.

Outfit: Pleated Star Skirt from Canvas by Lands’ End, along with the Recess Tank, Recess Topper, Chelsea Charm Necklace from cabi Fall 2016. Accessories are the Silver ball studs from Target, similar to the ones in this set,Crazy Lace Agate Sterling Silver Cuff Bracelet by Solid Treasures, and older Aerosoles. 

Posted: September 27, 2016

For four ways to style the tops, read the post.

Working It Printed, Pleated & Classy Wednesday: When you start with a dressy skirt, you don’t need to add a jacket to be profession, just a crisp blouse and sophisticated accessories.

Outfit:  Pleated Star Skirt from Canvas by Lands’ End, It’s a Wrap Shirt from cabi Fall 2066, Kipling Belt from cabi Fall 2015, nude suede pumps from Target last year, and the  Contessa Necklace & Vintage Stud earrings from Fall 2014 cabi.

Posted: October 12, 2016

For the full wrap, make your way to the post!

Pretty Terrific Geek Chic Thursday: Mix a pretty skirt with geek pieces for and edgy, feminine geek chic look!

Outfit: Pleated Star Skirt from Canvas by Lands’ End, Kate McKinnon Simple Portrait Sleeveless Tank Top by Kazzar on Amazon, Periodic Table Cuff  by ZAD from Zulily, Holtzmann’s ScrewU Necklace by inspiredbyfandom on Etsy, Monterey Lace-up Sneakers by SeaVees from Stitch Fix,  Shimmer Hoop Earrings from Vera Bradly.

Posted: September 29, 2016

For more geek styling, advance to the post!

Beachy Warrior Goddess Date Night: Mix tough with feminine and goddess accessories for a beachy warrior goddess date night look

Outfit: Pleated Star Skirt from Canvas by Lands’ End, Muscle Tee from cabi Spring 2016, Yet Another by Aerosoles, Mermaid Earrings & Athena Necklace by Kelly Annie, along with the Sandstone cuff & Sandstone ring custom order with Solid Treasures.

Posted: October 07, 2016

For more Goddess style and beach pictures, see the full post!

Cozy Cabled Rocky Coast Saturday: For a cozy take on a pleated skirt, add comfy pieces like a big cowl-neck sweater and suede boots.

Outfit: Pleated Star Skirt from Canvas by Lands’ End, Cable Cowl from cabi Fall 2016, Chelsea Charm Necklace from cabi Fall 2016, Hammered Crescent Moon Gold earrings from Fab’rik, Older L.L. Bean blue suede ballet flats Wonderful boots by Aerosoles.

Posted: October 01, 2016

Snuggle into the whole post for more cozy styling tips.

Beach Easy Elegant Sunday Best: Mix up your dress up by pairing a feminine, elegant skirt with a high end tee, easy beach hair, and pearls for the perfect look for a special occasion and a stroll on the beach after

Outfit: Pleated Star Skirt from Canvas by Lands’ End, Kris Top from cabi Spring 2016, pearls were a wedding gift from my husband and they are from Robert Lance Jewelers,Unisa Eavvi Sandalsold at DSW.

Posted: September 25, 2016

For tips on a beachy, casual elegance, do read the full post!

 

 

Don't forget the other Week in Review posts, for a quick look at past POW and styling inspiration.

And that’s a wrap on our starry, geeky, pretty, transitional, tough, and versatile POW 11. What do you want to see for POW 12?

 

Pleated Star POW: Working It Printed, Pleated & Classy Wednesday

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Outfit Mission Statement:  When you start with a dressy skirt, you don’t need to add a jacket to be profession, just a crisp blouse and sophisticated accessories

Working it Wednesday outfits are professional career clothes, often a step or two above Manic Monday outfits. The POW (Piece of the Week) is the Pleated Star Skirt from Canvas by Lands’ End. A pleated skirt can be a great formal office look with a jacket. But you do not need a jacket for a dressier office look. Instead, add classic and classy pieces, such as a white blouse, statement pearl necklace, sophisticated leopard print belt, and a nude suede pump for a professional take on the pleated skirt with panache.  

You’ll notice I added some extra flair with the on-trend wrapping of the button down top. Unlike what I had previously, this shirt, the cabi Fall 2106 It’s a Wrap Shirt, is designed so you can wrap it. There are some buttons that help and the shirt has a trapeze shape to accommodate his. You can also wear the top without wrapping it, for a looser trapeze style. It’s a fun, yet professional top that can easily be worn two very different, on-trend ways.

This star pleated skirt has a lot of office possibilities and can provide a fun career look that still remains professional. It also could be a fun wardrobe staple for a woman in politics.  She could rock the vote by wearing the skirt with a cardigan in more casual settings, a nice white shirt (like this), is more formal settings, a navy jacket in a debate, and a campaign tee shirt for fun. I’d vote for her (at last her wardrobe)!

 

Tips:

  • When starting with a dressy skirt, consider adding a crisp white blouse, and sophisticated accessories for a polished, profession look without a jacket
  • Look for versatile pieces that literally transform for an easier budget and time packing, such as this workhorse white blouse that can be a flowing trapeze style or chic wrapped blouse
  • With a standout print skirt and bold print belt, consider a nude pump to not distract
  • Add a bold belt to draw attention to and narrow the waist, especially when combining a white shirt and a white backed print
  • A crisp white wrap blouse will extenuate curves, giving you a more hourglass shape, while still looking professional
  • Remember what I said about leopard print (go for fine quality, not trashy)

 

Outfit Breakdown:

Interested in purchasing? If my post inspired you to buy the lovely Pleated Star Skirt from Canvas by Lands’ End or other items from Lands’ End, please consider using my referral link. I’ll get 25% off my next order and be very grateful! Let me know you used my referral link, and give you a shout out including links to your social media.

 

Related Posts:

  1. Bardot POW: Working It Wrapped, Classy Linen & Denim Wednesday posted June 08, 2016: Make your denim shirt work for work by pairing it with a classic neutral linen trouser and sophisticated accessories.
  2. Plume POW: Working It Classic & Modern Coco Wednesday posted April 06, 2016: Create a career outfit with the same put-together professionalism as a suit with a few modern interpretations of classic pieces.
  3. Go-To POW: Working It Classic Nautical Wednesday posted March 23, 2016: Combine the perfect black work trousers with a classic nautical jacket for chic, preppy, and professional look that implies success.

 

Or, learn how to work It in the other Working It Wednesday posts!

 

 

Pleated Star POW: Beachy Warrior Goddess Date Night

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Outfit Mission Statement: Mix tough with feminine and goddess accessories for a beachy warrior goddess date night look

Friday Night Drinks POW outfits are for going out on a date, getting drinks, seeing a band play, going to dinner and a movie—something where you want to look good and may wear some sexier clothes and statement pieces. The POW (Piece of the Week) is the Pleated Star Skirt from Canvas by Lands’ End. This is a fun way to dress down the skirt, for a funky date night look. Instead of taking the pretty, feminine flow of the skirt, and adding to it with other pretty and feminine things, I add strong, dark pieces for a bold, edgier look.  While this is a more summery outfit, you can get the same tough feel by adding a moto jacket over the muscle tee, which will also show off some crazy curves, and maybe switching out the sandals for some boots. Like some other date night outfits, this one is a fun mix of contrasts, while maintaining a feminine feel. This one is great for a seaside date of casual fine dining and a walk or the beach. But could work for anything where you want to be comfortable, and don’t need t be too casual or too dressy. I love the added touch of feminine strength with the Athena necklace. Not only does it go nicely with the gladiator-style sandals, but it adds to the tough and feminine feel of the outfit—perhaps Athena would wear this for a date?

 

Tips:

  • Dress down a pretty, feminine skirt with strong, dark pieces like a muscle tee and gladiator sandal for a warrior goddess tough & feminine date night look
  • Black adds sex appeal generally (thus the LBD), and especially in this outfit
  • Add toughness to an outfit with a muscle tee or other edgy tee or tank and gladiator-style sandals for warm weather or a moto jacket and moto boots for cooler weather (or some mix for fall!)
  • Tie longer tees/tanks at the waist to create more of an hourglass shape by emphasize the waist; it can also add flair and hide the belly
  • Accessorize with handmade jewelry for a one-of-a-kind look that likely supports small business or individuals
  • Wear a striking ring on your index or middle finger for a more striking and eye-catching look with attitude

Outfit Breakdown:

Interested in purchasing? If my post inspired you to buy the lovely Pleated Star Skirt from Canvas by Lands’ End or other items from Lands’ End, please consider using my referral link. I’ll get 25% off my next order and be very grateful! Let me know you used my referral link, and give you a shout out including links to your social media.

Photos taken by Bill Ruhsam Jr. at the King and Prince Resort.

 

Related Posts:

  1. Destructed White POW: Bare Shoulders, Strong & Sexy Date Night posted August 12, 2016: For an ageless, sexy date night look, bare your shoulders (but feel free to keep everything else covered).
  2. Plaid POW: Date Night Flannel Heat posted February 26, 2016: Don’t rule out a flannel shirt for a sexy date outfit—just add other pieces with plenty of sex appeal.
  3. Love POW: Spicy Sweet Friday Night Drinks posted February 05, 2016: Mix romantic pretty items with ripped denim and black leather for a look that is both sugar and spice and certainly nice.

 

Pleated Star POW: Nautical On-trend Librarian Manic Monday

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Outfit Mission Statement: Mix a casual, graphic tank with a pretty skirt and classic cardigan for Manic Monday outfit

Manic Monday outfits are easy career clothes to throw on for manic Mondays. This Monday we focus on creating an easy, pretty and on-trend work outfit. The POW (Piece of the Week) is the Pleated Star Skirt from Canvas by Lands’ End. I think cardigans are perfect layers for easy Monday (or easy any day) career looks. They are likely more comfortable than a jacket and more forgiving of any weekend over indulgences. Anyone who has followed this blog may be surprised to learn that cardigans are a recent wardrobe addition for me. I did not used to wear them or even like them. They seemed too kindergarten teacher or librarian to me. Or at least for me. I respected a person who could rock a cardigan. Just on me they felt.. weird… stiff… something. No idea why. But then, I was convinced to buy a cabi cardigan, and I was sold. Now I have several, mostly cabi, but occasionally, I will add a pretty one of another brand, like this Target one. They are a perfect layering pieces and can work for anyone, not just kindergarten teachers or librarians (they just were smarter than me on wearing them).

This is another great transitional outfit. It would work wonderfully for summer, but also can rock for fall. The rope tank had a nautical feel, which is on trend for this fall (not just the Spring and Summer this year!). It gives it a fun, yet classic touch. The neutral color and textured pattern, gives it a refined feel, while toning down the tank and skirt.

I styled this with handmade jewelry for a more casual, natural feel, drawing on the beauty and uniqueness of the pieces. Feel free to dress this up more with statement pieces or even some pearls for a classier feel.

Tips:

  • Never rule out a category of clothing—try it on in several styles and brands and think about if it could work for you
  • Trade out your fitted jacket for a soft cardigan for a more casual and comfortable outfit
  • Add elements of a trend, like the rope graphic, to be on-trend but not overboard (no nautical pun intended), which may work better in a casual office environment
  • When wearing eye-catching prints (rope & stars for instance) in a more conservative office environment, keep your outfit colors to a more limited and neutral-heavy palette
  • For a more casual, natural style, wear handmade jewelry featuring beautiful natural stones and gems—this may remind you of the weekend and prompt conversations
  • A flat and bare legs works well for warmer temps, but consider tights and boots when the temps cool
  • Longer hair? Don’t feel like putting it up? Consider a headband to keep it out of your face
  • Take a casual, graphic tank and pair it with a pretty skirt and classic cardigan for business casual outfit with some fun

 

Outfit Breakdown:

Interested in purchasing? If my post inspired you to buy the lovely Pleated Star Skirt from Canvas by Lands’ End or other items from Lands’ End, please consider using my referral link. I’ll get 25% off my next order and be very grateful! Let me know you used my referral link, and give you a shout out including links to your social media.

 

Related Posts:

  1. Plaid POW: Manic Flannel Monday Posted February 22, 2016: For a cozy yet professional look, take one casual flannel and add lots of professional pieces
  2. Run Around POW: Elegant Layers and Brights Manic Monday Posted April 18, 2016: Combine a unique skirt with office classics in bright colors for a different, upbeat career look.
  3. Michelle POW: Manic Peasant in Ponte Monday Posted March 07, 2016: For a casual, yet professional, office look, consider ponte and a peasant blouse with your cardigan

 

Want more? Check out the other Manic Monday posts!

Pleated Star POW: Cozy Cabled Rocky Coast Saturday

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Outfit Mission Statement: For a cozy take on a pleated skirt, add comfy pieces like a big cowl-neck sweater and suede boots

Play Day Saturday are clothes for taking your kids to the park, running errands, talking your dog for a walk, shopping, picnicking, traveling, going to a museum or a zoo—out and about or home having fun clothes. These are the clothes you often live the best parts of your life in! The POW (Piece of the Week) is the Pleated Star Skirt from Canvas by Lands’ End. This outfit, especially with the boots, makes me feel like I should be walking along the costs of Maine in the fall—warm cable sweater over a pretty skirt with some (more or less) practical boots. I can see it in my head. A gray day, with some fog, crashing surf, rocky shores, a crisp feel to the air, and some color in the trees. Why this picture? Partially because this sweater seems like an updated and stylish fisherman’s sweater. Partially because I’d often throw a cozy sweater on for warmth over a pretty outfit, when doing something like walking in cold weather; and often it didn’t matter if the sweater, flannel, or whatever went with what I was wearing. I just was adding warm. Of course, in this case, the sweater goes quite well, and the combined outfit is cozy, and pretty, and as good for walking a museum as walking a rocky coast.

I do show two versions of this—one with flats and one with boots. This is to show the transitional versatility of the skirt and sweater. You can wear flats if it is still warm or transition to boots if it is colder. And feel free to go more practically with the boot. I’d be wearing some wellies if I had them for this outfit, but I didn’t at the time (I do now, expect to see them soon1).

Tips:

  • Don’t rule out some of your childhood clothing practices, like throwing a big sweater on over a pretty outfit for warmth, but do consider ways you can make this work into a cute outfit
  • A big cozy sweater will add a casual, comfortable feel to a fancy pleated skirt
  • Don’t be afraid to throw on casual boots, wellies, or rain boots with a pretty pleated skirt for a casual and practical look
  • Have a favorite outfit? You can make it work in another season, or transitioning between seasons, by switching out the shoes (swap flats for boots and vice versa)
  • For a more casual, walking-the-rugged-Maine-coast look, keep to a neutral color palette, such as white, navy, and gray
  • If you live anywhere that has some cold winter days, make sure you have a wardrobe staple cozy cable sweater, such as the one here, in a neutral color—it will become a go-to piece and can easily be dressed up or down!
  • With a mixed metal necklace, you can accessorizes in any of the metals in the necklace for a put-together look

 

Outfit Breakdown:

Interested in purchasing? If my post inspired you to buy the lovely Pleated Star Skirt from Canvas by Lands’ End or other items from Lands’ End, please consider using my referral link. I’ll get 25% off my next order and be very grateful! Let me know you used my referral link, and give you a shout out including links to your social media.

 

Related Posts:

  1. Plume POW: The Stylish Safari Princess Thursday Posted April 14, 2016: For a trendy outfit with masculine and feminist touches, mix tulle and military/safari style
  2. Love POW: Sweater Saturdays are Pretty Cozy! Posted February 13, 2016: Start with a cozy sweater and add feminine and practical pieces for a casual, pretty, and lifestyle-friendly look
  3. POW Tuesday Edition Week 1b: No place like Tuesday in a Jacket Posted January 26, 2016: Integrate dressy jackets into your casual style, by keeping the other elements casual

Pleated Star POW: Pretty Terrific Geek Chic Thursday

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Outfit Mission Statement: Mix a pretty skirt with geek pieces for and edgy, feminine geek chic look!

TTT Thursday outfits are Trendy, Transitional, and/or Terrific—in other words my choice. It can be whatever other outfit ideas the garment gave me. It may be something very trendy, transitional, terrific, or something else. The POW (Piece of the Week) is the Pleated Star Skirt from Canvas by Lands’ End. For this Thursday, we are going with Terrific, in the form of another Geek Chic outfit. Geek Chic is the perfect forum to dress down a pretty pleated skirt or other fancy skirt. Take the pretty skirt and add a fun geek tee or tank and geeky accessories. Then throw on some comfortable shoes. This look can be incredibly versatile—the skirt can be pleated, like this, or tulle, a fun pencil, or something else. I’ll illustrate this in a later post.

I especially love the mix of pretty skirts with geeky tops, when you take something with a bit of an edge, like this Holtzmann tank (Holtzmann is brilliant, strange, mad scientist engineer of the Ghostbusters in the Summer 2016 remake). The combination of edge, feminine, and geeky is interesting, unexpected, and so much fun! I think Holtzmann is the perfect choice for this outfit. While we do not see her in pleated skirts (or skirts) in the movie, she has a vintage, mad scientist style. I could see her rocking a vintage pleated skirt with work boots, a graphic tee, a leather jacket, funky socks, some cool glasses, and, of course, the Screw U necklace (which I am also wearing).

 

Tips:

  • Don’t be afraid to show your geek with a fun graphic tee or tank and some accessories
  • But think outside the normal jeans and a geek tee box—mix the geek with chic for an exciting twist on both
  • Mix pretty and soft with your edgy or geeky for a fun contrast and enjoyable way to wear both
  • When you have two louder accessories, like the Screw U necklace and Periodic Table cuff, keep other accessories simple
  • Rock a comfortable sneaker in a pretty color with your fancy skirts for comfort and some street style, plus this will allow you to wear the skirt in a wider variety of situations
  • A muted pastel shoe can work as a neutral, especially with a mix of printed pieces
  • Have fun—the pretty skirt doesn’t have to just be styled pretty and the geeky doesn’t have to only be geeky, but mixing works best if you have fun with it

Outfit Breakdown:

 

Holtzmann's take on a pleated skirt:

This is one way I imagine Holtzmann would style the Pleated Star Skirt from Canvas by Lands’ End.

Links to the pieces: Pleated Star Skirt from Canvas by Lands’ End, Sterling 23 Spectre glasses by O’Rigina; Trading Co., Argyle knee high socks from Sock Dreams, Four Seasons Square Scarf from The Met Store, Tweed-ing Lady Vest from Mod Cloth, Elma Deerskin Fingerless Half Finger Driving Gloves on Amazon, Do Not Read The Next Sentence tee from SnorgTees, Zipper Motorcycle Biker Faux Leather Jacket by LJYH on Amazon,  Double H 8" Opanka Packer boots on Shoe Buy.

 

Interested in purchasing? If my post inspired you to buy the lovely Pleated Star Skirt from Canvas by Lands’ End or other items from Lands’ End, please consider using my referral link. I’ll get 25% off my next order and be very grateful! Let me know you used my referral link, and give you a shout out including links to your social media.

 

Related Posts:

  1. Plaid POW: Flannel Geek Chic Posted March 05, 2016: Mix geek with trendy and a comfy flannel shirt, for a practical geek chic look.
  2. Run Around POW: The Chic Geek Superhero Thursday Posted: April 28, 2016:  Defeat boring outfits by mixing the chic with subtle geek and save the day!

Or check out any of the other TTT Thursday looks or Geek Chic styles!

Pleated Star POW: Cozy Layers Four Ways and a Mom Bun Tuesday

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Outfit Mission Statement: Dress down your pretty skirt with casual, comfortable layers and a mom bun

No place like Tuesday outfits are casual, comfy clothes for working from home, working at home, parenting (at home), and anything else where comfort is key and you are home. Although they will work for errands and anything else casual. The POW (Piece of the Week) is the Pleated Star Skirt from Canvas by Lands’ End. Yes, even a pretty pleated skirt can work for a casual, easy outfit! Just add easy pieces in comfortable knits, practical shoes, and a mom bun and you have a twist on the jeans and tee you may often wear at home or running errands.

As the seasons change, it is especially important to think of layers and versatility in any of our outfits, but especially those for busy days. I love the Recess Tank and Recess Topper as an easy way to layer with style and flair. Both pieces are soft French Terry, making them perfect for casual wear. The Recess Tank is a longer, tunic-length, providing even more versatility (and you can wear it with leggings). You can easily wear them as a set—a modern take on the cami and cardigan combo—or separately. Here I illustrate several ways you can wear the two pieces with this skirt:

  1. Just the Recess Tank worn long
  2. Recess Tank only, tied at the waist to add flair and emphasize the waist (which is also good at hiding the belly)
  3. Recess Topper over the Recess Tank, with the Topper tied and hood down
  4. The Recess Topper with hood up over the Recess Tank
Just the Recess Tank worn long

Just the Recess Tank worn long

Recess Tank only, tied at the waist

Recess Tank only, tied at the waist

Recess Topper with hood up over the Recess Tank

Recess Topper with hood up over the Recess Tank

You can also play even more with the two together or separately, such as pairing the Recess Topper with another tank, tunic, or top under it. I adore the thumb holes, but you do not have to wear them; you can just push the sleeves back a bit for a more traditional sleeve look.

 

Tips:

  • Transform your pretty pleated skirt into a perfect casual outfit by mixing it with casual tops and accessories
  • Look for versatile tops combinations, such as the Recess Topper and Recess Tank, for an easy way to layer and be ready for changes temperatures
  • Rethink the classic cardigan and cami with a cropped pullover and a tunic-length top for a casual, cozy take on traditional layers
  • A heather gray knit adds a casual feel to any outfit
  • With a pretty skirt and fun topper(s), no one will notice the messy mom bun
  • A bra-friendly tunic length tank, give you extra ease and versatility—allowing you to wear your favorite comfy bra and decide if you want the tunic down or tied at your waist

Outfit Breakdown:

 

 

Interested in purchasing? If my post inspired you to buy the lovely Pleated Star Skirt from Canvas by Lands’ End or other items from Lands’ End, please consider using my referral link. I’ll get 25% off my next order and be very grateful! Let me know you used my referral link, and give you a shout out including links to your social media.

Related Posts:

  1. Margherita POW: Easy, Breezy Contrasts Tuesday Posted May 10, 2016: For coverage and/or added casualness, wear a contrasting tied tee shirt over your favorite sundress
  2. Run Around POW: Muted, Playful Contrasts at Home Tuesday Posted April 26, 2016: Dress down your black skirt in muted tones, with pops of fun and sunshine
  3. Go-To POW: No Place Like Tuesday for Sky & Earth Explorers Posted: March 29, 2016: Dress down those work-appropriate black pants with a boxy tee, explore vest, and handmade jewelry

 

And check out the other No Place like Home Tuesday POW posts!

Pleated Star POW: Beach Easy Elegant Sunday Best

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Outfit Mission Statement:  Mix up your dress up by pairing a feminine, elegant skirt with a high end tee, easy beach hair, and pearls for the perfect look for a special occasion and a stroll on the beach after

 Sunday Best POW outfits are special occasion clothes for dinning, theater, opera, holiday parties, church, and other such occasions that need something special. The POW (Piece of the Week) is the Pleated Star Skirt from Canvas by Lands’ End. Since this skirt radiates elegance and femininity, it is easy (and rather predictable) to dress it up, perhaps with a lovely white wrap top, or a soft gray silk draped tank, maybe a light pink chiffon shell, or a navy lace top. With this skirt, dressy is easy. So, I went a more casual route—think beach easy elegance not ballroom polished elegance. In fact, I wore this, on a beach vacation, for my anniversary dinner with my husband. It doesn’t get much more special occasion than that! Instead of a dressy top, think laid back but still nice, such as this hi-low cross design cropped high-end tee. Add pearls, sandals, and a French braid with ponytail for and elegant beach ease.

This look works for summer, fall, and in-between with the mix of dark navy and white georgette. If it cools down, just throw on a wrap, cardigan, or tailored jacket. This is the perfect look for when you want something special, but not stuffy, and when the night might end with a walk on the beach.

 

Tips:

  • Look for unexpected twists on your special occasion outfits, such as a dressy tee with a fancy skirt
  • To maintain a certain level of dressy, keep the tee higher quality with special features (such as this hi-low cross design) in dark or bold colors
  • For easy beach elegance, add casual elements to your dressy pearls and skirt—such as the loose French braid with ponytail
  • Don’t be afraid of a top that is slightly cropped, they may be more flattering than you think. If your tummy is a problem area, look for:
    • A longer crop that covers more and shows little to no skin
    • Special details that will slim and distract, such as the cross design 
    • A looser top that does not cling to the belly
    • Quality fabric that drapes and hides
    • High-wasted bottoms to go underneath that over the problem area
  • Think pearls for ease and a touch of both class and grace (plus they nicely pop on darks or bold shirts)
  • If you might end up walking on the beach, make sure those sandals are easy to remove
  • Keep the look in a limited palette of two to three main colors, such as the white and navy here, if you need to be dressier—broaden the palette is more casual is fine

 

Outfit Breakdown:

 

Interested in purchasing? If my post inspired you to buy the lovely Pleated Star Skirt from Canvas by Lands’ End or other items from Lands’ End, please consider using my referral link. I’ll get 25% off my next order and be very grateful! Let me know you used my referral link, and give you a shout out including links to your social media.

Photos for this photo shoot were taken by Bill Ruhsam at the King and Prince Resort.

Related Posts:

  1. Destructed White POW: Pretty in Pink & Pearls Sunday Best posted June 19, 2016: Dress your destructed denim up for a special occasion look with fancy, feminine pieces for a pretty, edgy, feminine, and comfortable outfit!
  2. Bardot POW: Boho Southwestern Sparkly Princess Sunday Best posted May 29, 2016: To dress denim up for a special occasion look, throw on the fancy—think tulle, sparkly gems, embroidered velvet, statement pieces, and amazing shoes

  3. Plaid POW: Sparkling & Flannel Sunday Best: posted February 28, 2016: Turn flannel elegant by adding a dressy skirt and accessories

 

 

 

Or, I cordially invite you to view the rest of the Sunday Best special occasion ensembles.

 

 

POW 11: Pleated Star Skirt

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Stars. Stars are my thing.

Pleated Star Skirt from Canvas by Lands’ End. cabi Spring 2016 Muscle Tee. Athena Necklace andMermaid Earrings by Kelly Annie. Yet Another sandals from Aerosoles.

Pleated Star Skirt from Canvas by Lands’ End. cabi Spring 2016 Muscle Tee. Athena Necklace andMermaid Earrings by Kelly Annie. Yet Another sandals from Aerosoles.

I used to have glow-in-the-dark stars on my bedroom ceiling growing up. I would stargaze in the crisp, clean Maine nights. I accessorize with stars. I love stars. When I saw this Pleated Star Skirt from Canvas by Lands’ End I was smitten. Not only were there stars, and in a lovely blue, but it was also a pleated skirt! I adore the fancy skirt trend—from tulle to pleats. This skirt is a great mix of two loves! The cascading star print is fun, but also something that can read professional or dressy, more so than an all-over star print with all the stars the same size. It does read as fairly feminine, which is why I considered it for a Piece of the Week (POW). I like to take garments that have obvious stylings and find some that are less so, while playing with feel of the garment. So, thus, the lovely Pleated Star Skirt from Canvas by Lands’ End became my eleventh POW.

Pleated Star Skirt from Canvas by Lands’ End paired with the cabi Fall 2016 Cable Cowl sweater and Chelsea Charm Necklace. Boots are Wonderful by Aerosoles.

Pleated Star Skirt from Canvas by Lands’ End paired with the cabi Fall 2016 Cable Cowl sweater and Chelsea Charm Necklace. Boots are Wonderful by Aerosoles.

The skirt may also read as summery too you—white, airy, with patriotic stars. While it is great for summer, and a festive Fourth of July, it can totally rock in the fall or winter too. Yes, you can wear white after Labor Day.  In fact, you can even wear this in winter—imagine a cozy, soft sweater for a Christmas or Hanukah look or with a glitzy top for New Years. I’m using this POW as a summer to fall transitions; showing looks that may feel more summer-like or more autumn-like (and possible even variations of both). Stars can rock year round, and you can work this skirt year round too!

If you love the looks but maybe not this particular skirt, feel free to take another pleated skirt or other type of fancier skirt and style with it instead. Much of these outfits and inspirations can easily be restyled with a tulle skirt, a solid color pleated skirt, a lace skirt, or a lovely satin midi skirt. Have fun with it and work it!

Join us in the 11th POW as we rock these stars and pleats at work, on the beach, on a date,  and in warm sunny days and crisp falls days!

Pleated Star Skirt from Canvas by Lands’ End with cabi Spring 2016 Kris Top, Unisa Eavvi Sandal sold at DSW, and classic pearls from Robert Lance Jewelers.

Pleated Star Skirt from Canvas by Lands’ End with cabi Spring 2016 Kris Top, Unisa Eavvi Sandal sold at DSW, and classic pearls from Robert Lance Jewelers.

Pleated Star Skirt from Canvas by Lands’ End with the cabi Fall 2016 Recess Tank and Recess Topper, and Chelsea Charm Necklace. Crazy Lace Agate Sterling Silver Cuff Bracelet by Solid Treasures. Shoes are older Aerosoles.

Pleated Star Skirt from Canvas by Lands’ End with the cabi Fall 2016 Recess Tank and Recess Topper, and Chelsea Charm Necklace. Crazy Lace Agate Sterling Silver Cuff Bracelet by Solid Treasures. Shoes are older Aerosoles.

Interested in purchasing? If my post inspired you to buy the lovely Pleated Star Skirt from Canvas by Lands’ End or other items from Lands’ End, please consider using my referral link. I’ll get 25% off my next order and be very grateful! Let me know you used my referral link, and give you a shout out including links to your social media.

 

Other Fancy Skirt Inspirations

Use these as additional ways to style your Pleated Star Skirt or as inspiration of other types of fancy skirts you could style along with.

  1. Plume POW: The Stylish Safari Princess Thursday posted April 14, 2016:  For a trendy outfit with masculine and feminist touches, mix tulle and military/safari style.
  2. Plaid POW: Sparkling & Flannel Sunday Best posted February 28, 2016: Turn flannel elegant by adding a dressy skirt and accessories.
  3. Bardot POW: Boho Southwestern Sparkly Princess Sunday Best posted May 29, 2016: To dress denim up for a special occasion look, throw on the fancy—think tulle, sparkly gems, embroidered velvet, statement pieces, and amazing shoes

 

Not just for fireworks: Nine Versatile Pieces for your Fourth of July and Patriotic Wardrobe

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The Fourth of July is quickly approaching and many of us may be thinking about what we are going to wear.  Here are nine pieces you can buy now for a great Fourth of July look that will also work in your general wardrobe. A few of these I regularly wear to work!

 

1.  Kris Top: This cabi spring 2016 on-trend cropped (but not too short) top, has a crossover asymmetrical hem. It is a light navy knit—perfect for hot summer celebrations. Consider rocking it with some red shorts (such as the Picnic Short) and patriotic accessories (such as this Star Print Scarf!).  Or pair it with a pretty skirt!

2. Star Print Scarf: This festive and fun scarf has blue stars with pops of red ones. It works wonderfully for the Fourth, but can add a fun touch to any outfit year round. It pairs wonderfully with the picnic shorts and either the Kris Top or Striped Favorite Tank. It would also be fabulous over a red dress, blue dress, or white dress for a pop of patriotic.

 

 

 

 

3. Picnic Short: These cute cabi spring 2016 shorts have red, purple, and pink in them. With some blue or white they are perfect for the Fourth or other patriotic holidays, but always work perfectly with summer tops and tees. The subtle print mixes easily with stripes and other patterns.

4.  Striped Favorite Tank: This easy, casual tank by Merona at Target, is a great piece for a casual Fourth of July look. I love it with the patterns for the Picnic Short and Star Print Scarf for fun,  patriotic pattern play. You could also wear with white, denim blue, or red shorts. Or dress it ups with a fun skirt for the Fourth.

 

 

 

 

 

5.  Pleated Star Skirt: I love this skirt from Canvas by Lands’ End! It is so pretty, fun, and feminine. I also love stars and am delighted to find them on a work-friendly skirt! This skirt is perfect for a dressier Fourth of July celebration. It works well with the Sleeveless Double Drape Tee for this. Or dress it down with a tee and some causal shoes.  This is even on sale right now. Stay tuned for more on this skirt.

6.  Sleeveless Double Drape Tee: This is another cabi spring 2016 garment. It is an incredibly flattering tee that will add some “va va voom” to your fireworks. It dress up nicely, as shown with the Pleated Star Skirt. But you can rock with jeans, shorts, or whatever. It’s cute with the Picnic Short too!

7. Bow Ballet Flats: These timeless flats can add a pop of red (or blue) to your patriotic outfit, and also work every day. They are cute and comfortable. They work well with shorts, jeans, or a skirt. I love them with a mostly blue and white outfit, for a burst of red. I do suggest sizing up a half a size.

 

8. Butterfly Print Scarf: This pretty summery scarf by ITB Design can add blue and flow to your Fourth of July outfit. It’s large and works well as a warp when the temperature drop as you wait for fireworks. It can also be worn around the neck during the day, as I have shown with the Star Print Scarf. The butterfly deign works wonderfully for spring and summer. Consider wearing it over a red dress for a fun and unexpected Fourth look.

 

 

 

 

 
Cruise Jacket with older cabi tee, Target short, and Aerosoles shoes. Boston Red Sox hat.

Cruise Jacket with older cabi tee, Target short, and Aerosoles shoes. Boston Red Sox hat.

9. Cruise Jacket: This classic, high-end styled jacket is also one of my favorite cabi pieces of the Spring 2016 season. It easily works for a dressy Fourth of July look, but can also be a fun addition to a casual outfit, as I style it here. Consider rocking it with ripped jeans; linen pants in your favorite patriotic color; a navy pencil skirt; a red dress; or with a casual tee shirt, cut-off shorts, and a ball cap! I love rocking it casually. This nautical piece works wonderfully for the office or special occasion too—not just for fireworks!

 

 

 

 

 

If you want of these cabi pieces, contact your cabi stylist ASAP! I believe the season ends June 30th. If you do not have a stylist, please contact me in the comments or via email, reach out to my (Joni Allen via email or phone: 770 502-5243 [call or text]), or find a cabi stylist near you. If you miss out, try contacting your stylist to see if she has samples or access to the retired season pieces.