I am loving the gingham trend that’s all over the magazines for spring, but I just can’t spend anymore this month – or next month for that matter. Lucky for me, I am the ultimate creative problem-solver when it comes to shopping in my own closet. And then it struck me! My boyfriend’s closet has all these awesome plaid shirts that TOTALLY fit the bill – I know this because I built his wardrobe myself (see the post all about it here). I grabbed a couple and with a few tweaks, gave them an on-trend and feminine touch. Read on for a couple ideas!
TIED OVER A DRESS
My first idea was to tie the button-up shirt over one of my most feminine summer dresses – this red little number from Banana Republic. I wear it to work with a blazer often, but I like the casual summer vibe I get with the top over it. Plus, I over-emphasized the bow of the tie and cinched it at my narrowest part to really play up the femininity.
Some matching jewelry, movie-star sunglasses, a navy clutch, and my favorite red lipstick were the finishing touches to seal the deal on a killer spring/summer outfit.
Shirt: J.Crew Factory // Dress: Banana Republic // Clutch: Gigi New York, Navy All in One Bag // Wedges: DV by Dolce Vita // Sunglasses: H&M // Jewelry: Swarovski, Queen of Hearts Ring
TUCKED INTO PANTS WITH HEELS
This second look – tucking a top with a larger gingham check into cargo pants – is definitely more masculine in nature. I added a sparkly handbag, jewlery, sunglasses and some uber-sexy heels to amp it up a bit. Oh, and when in doubt, wear giant hair and bright lipstick. ALWAYS!
Shirt: J.Crew Factory // Cargo Pants: LOFT // Heels: Rachel Zoe // Handbag: Botkier, Jackson Satchel // Sunglasses: Timberland Aviators // Jewelry: Swarovski Leather Pyramid Stud Bracelet, Alexis Bittar Lucite bangle and deco ring // Lipstick: MAKE in Scarlet
DETAILS
And finally, it’s the little things – the finishing touches – that make an outfit your own. Here are the close-ups of what I chose to bling it up.
AND CLICK THROUGH FOR A WHOLE GINGHAM SLIDESHOW FROM ELLE MAGAZINE!
Alternatively, head right to your local consignment store to the men’s section – I bet you can get a plaid shirt for less than $10! Try it – and report back!
Belle
