Bright Striped

So I know I declared this the summer of all white, but that doesn't mean I'm giving up my go-to black and white stripes for the season! So when the opportunity presented itself to combine color with my favorite pattern, I simply could resist.

I saw this skirt at Asos and knew I immediately fell in love with the combination of color and pattern play, but was hesitant about the silhouette. I am usually a fit and flare or full skirt kind of gal and rarely ever slip into a tight, pencil-like skirt, but made an exception for this striped beaut. 

The skirt ended up being surprisingly comfy and versatile, and I wasn't as awkward in it as I thought -- I guess sometimes it pays off to step outside of your comfort zone. The fabric was super soft and the curved hem made this shape more flattering. As a kind-of-curvy-girl I was hesitant about wearing a tight horizontal striped skirt since this pattern is usually so unforgiving, but the high-low-curved-hem helps create the illusion of leg length while keeping you covered, and more importantly, comfortable. I've worn this skirt to the office with a bright chiffon top or even a playful peplum and can tone it down with a graphic tee, or a cropped tank and flat sandals! I also love the way Brighton Keller wore the same skirt with an off the shoulder black crop and coordinating bright bag for that extra pop!

I paired it with a striped crop top (of course) to keep the pattern play going and added bold b&w accessories, including my new favorite Nila Anthony Lego Clutch! I have had a life-long love for Legos, I'm not exactly sure why. My mom, who is an out-of-the-box interior designer, always dreamed of doing a Lego back splash in a kitchen, so I think they kind of remind me of her! So when Chanel came out with their Lego collection a few season back, I immediately feel in love with their child-inspired creations! Since Chanel is a wee bit out of my price range, I decided to admire from afar - until this Clutch came into my life and rocked my world. Like Chanel, it plays on the Lego-like aspects to create a cool, statement clutch, but doesn't include the logo so you know it's not a wannabe, just it's own fun fashion moment.

Asos Multi Striped Pencil Skirt, now on sale

H&M Crop top (similar here) || Nila Anthony Clutch c/o

Toulouse CZ earcuff c/o Gina Cueco || Gold Statement ring c/o Nikibi

Ksena Shoe Dazzle Heels

P.S. What are you guys thoughts about Shoe Dazzle? I know I am really late to the party but was hesitent to sign up for something that charged me every month. These shoes convinced me to take the plunge but I got a little turned off when I realized they don't offer free returns, just free exchanges and they actually charge you a $5 restocking fee -- on a $40 pair of shoes, come on! Anyways, cancelled my membership and thinking of switching to Just Fab. Sound off - what have your experiences been like?

XO