Style Tip #2: Belts

Belts are a great way to add definition and interest to an outfit.  They can showcase your creativity and make the entire outfit seem more purposeful.

Structure

Belts add structure and can emphasize the waist - always helpful!  They are a great way to wear a looser shirt and dress without it looking like a mumu (not that I don't love mumus :)).  Even fitted outfits can seem as though they are lacking something without some structure.  By including a belt, either at the natural waist or at the trouser waist, the outfit gains a more formal shape.

Interest

Belts also can add interest to an otherwise boring outfit.  In the example of the blue dress with the green jacket below, the outfit would lack a central focal point without a belt.  Similarly, with the gray dress, there would be no central point on which the eye could focus.  By adding a belt, it breaks up the outfit and draws the eye into the outfit.  Belts also tie together diverse aspects of an outfit - for instance, tying in some boots or a hat, and making the outfit more put together and purposeful overall.

Non-Traditional Belts

Finally, belts don't always have to be traditional - feel free to use an old cord, a piece of fabric, a necklace, a scarf, or take one from another outfit.  You can even just tie a built-in belt in a new way (see outfit with the pink top and polka dotted tights).  You can also belt in non-traditional ways (try over a cardigan or blouse or even a blazer).  Have fun with it!

Belt a Dress to add Structure

   

Belt a Skirt or Pants to Break Up the Outfit

Use Non-Traditional Belts or Belt in Non-Traditional Ways

(PS - feel free to click through on any of the images to see additional photos and sources of each outfit!)

Style Tip #1: Working with Wardrobe Staples

Fashion Tip #1: Working with Wardrobe Staples

By Preethi Harbuck

Hello, sisters! I'm thrilled to be able to connect with each of you virtually via this fantastic Arlington 2nd RS blog. I've been a blog-lover for several years now, and have found so many interesting fashion tips, recipes, tutorials and PEOPLE who inspire me. Because what are the interwebs for if not to blatantly steal others' ideas and make them my own? :) (And what is Pinterest for if not to track all of them?)

Background
I've been in the ward for about 2.5 years. We moved here for my husband's job with the government, as well as for my MBA program at Georgetown, which I completed last May. I now work part-time from home in the public education space, doing marketing work. It's the perfect opportunity to do something I love while also doing something I love even more, which is playing mom to our 16-month old son Nat.

Why a Fashion Blog?
I started a fashion blog, lace, etc., late last year as a sort of internal motivation to get dressed and look presentable on a (mostly) daily basis. I found that as a stay-at-home-mom, it was all too easy for me to stay in my jammies all day. But I find that I feel much better about myself and my capabilities, and subsequently am more confident and productive through my day, if I actually take a few minutes to put on non-flannel clothing.

Fashion Tip
It's easy, though, in the world of fashion to see great outfits that other people are wearing and think, "I need that!" or "I need to buy ___!" But I've found that with a little creativity, most people have a lot to work with right in their own closets.

So today, I'll be giving a quick overview of how to take advantage of one wardrobe basic that you probably already have lying around your closet.

Staple #1: Basic Button Down
The quintessential white button-down. Boring, right? Wrong. This one closet staple, either in white or another color, is super versatile. And with the right layers and/or accessories, it can be anything but boring. For a classic look, try it tucked (or front-tucked) into trouser/skinny jeans or a skirt. You could button it all the way up and wear a chunky necklace or scarf over it, or you could tie it at the bottom. You could wear it under a cute dress or under a cardigan. The possibilities are endless!

   

  

    

    

         

   

(PS - feel free to click through on any of the images to see additional photos and sources of each outfit!)