Petite Fashion Challenge #2: Wear It Now, Wear It Later

The challenge:

In honor of the fast approaching cool, fall weather, what better way to get ready than to find ways to make your wardrobe do double duty. Pick at least one item in your closet (not jeans, that’s too easy!), and create two outfits, one for spring/summer, and one for fall/winter.

Oh boy. I get so excited about these challenges, but when push comes to shove, I err on the side of neutrals.

Most of my clothes do double duty already so I don’t have many strictly seasonal clothes, not that LA seasons are very dynamic. Still, I wanted to give it a try and show how my clothes can work for warmer and cooler weather.

For this challenge, I picked a cream-colored silk blouse.

I had to break my shopping ban to pick up this top from the Alexa Chung collection for Madewell. It was too pretty to pass up and I’ve been dreaming of a great silk blouse for the longest time. Even though this is a relatively easy staple item, I figured I would dress it up in a way that is a play on menswear.

Summer Outfit – Wear Now

Outfit Details: Alexa Chung for Madewell silk blouse – XS, Banana Republic shorts – 4, American Eagle belt, DIY necklace (friend’s gift), Steve Madden Tuxxedo oxford flats

The color of the blouse doesn’t exactly scream summer, but the billowy top is great for warmer days. Paired with some high-waisted shorts, it adds that vintage kick that I want.

I don’t usually wear short shorts unless it’s over 90 degrees like it is currently. Instead, I usually wear mom shorts…literally. It’s kind of crazy how ridiculous size inflation has become since these shorts from Banana Republic are size 4 and I can barely fit into the 00 now.

The oxford flats adds that menswear inspired element that makes the look very contemporary.

Autumn Outfit – Wear Later

Outfit Details: Alexa Chung for Madewell silk blouse – XS, Madewell skinny jeans – 24, Bitten by SJP vest – S, Free People watch pendant, Corso Como boots

As a transitional outfit into Fall, I switched out the shorts for pants and donned on my riding boots. For additional warmth, I added a corduroy vest for texture. Equestrian no?

Outfit Details: Alexa Chung for Madewell silk blouse – XS, Bitten by SJP vest – S, Banana Republic Martin plaid trousers – 0P, Zara faux suede blazer-XS,  Dolce & Gabbana pumps

In Autumn, layering is a common occurrence, so adding a blazer paired with the vest gives it a strong masculine edge. But the overall look is clearly feminine and it’s a great work outfit too.

Simple, easy, and stylish.

What do you think?

Tagged as: alexa chung, autumn, boots, madewell, menswear inspired, PFC, seasons, silk blouse, summer, transition, vintage