Have you ever experienced love at first sight with a garment?
I didn’t think it existed until I saw this skirt on final sale online. It has this utilitarian vibe similar to the military and safari styles that have been making the rounds for spring. Plus, the silhouette is so classic and feminine, it makes me want to twirl endlessly or join a swing dance troupe.
Needless to say, I broke my mini shopping ban this month.
It was a big risk because I’ve never tried French Connection before. When it arrived, the skirt had so much fabric I thought it was too big. But as luck would have it, the skirt fits perfectly at the waist…way better than any skirt I’ve tried at J.Crew, BR, AT, or LOFT. The length hits right below the knee, but it works as my “midi” skirt.
To make this simple outfit contemporary and youthful, I added some colorful accessories.
None of my neutral colored bags complemented this look, but I knew a big, bright colored bag or patterned clutch will do. I found this houndstooth clutch tucked away in my sister’s closet and it adds visual interest to break up the blocks of color.
Outfit Details: Alexa Chung for Madewell blouse – XS, FCUK skirt – 0, Martin + Osa belt, Urban Outfitters scarf, CROW BFW watch, Express clutch, D&G pumps
Like the title of this post, this outfit was inspired by the girl scouts.
The rich creams and browns are reminiscent of the standard uniform, but it’s a more refined interpretation with a 1950′s flare. I’m ready for a tea party, but I’m not going to be very poised or dainty.
{ 37 comments… read them below or add one }
That is a cute skirt! I’m usually afraid of skirts like that because it makes me look shorter than I already am but you pulled it off well! Funny how you were inspired by the Girl Scouts too.
This skirt looks fabulous on you! And it has the perfect length. I would have broken my shopping ban for it, too, if I had one
I love French Connection! Their clothes are very petite friendly because their sizes run tiny and I find their lengths to be shorter in general (for “regular” sizing). Love the skirt on you! My favorite way to pop olive is with coral or tangerine but I could see this looking lovely with a chambray top
I never would’ve tried FCUK before, but it’s great to know that they run slim. I’ve been on the lookout for fitted items, but it’s been a challenge to find. Coral/tangerine are great pops of color and that’s what I was looking for in a handbag. Chambray would be great too, but alas, I don’t own one just yet. =)
I love FCUK, but we don’t have any of their stores here! I didn’t know they were so petite friendly!
That blouse is perfect. And I think if you had gone for a true midi skirt, you would have ended up stumpy and slightly frumpy. But happily, you’re not! So this length works! I love it!
You should never be all matchy matchy with your handbag, anyway. So a nice contrast like exaggerated houndstooth works perfectly with your ensemble! I love the punchy belt, and the mismatching scarf! So boho, but still refined!
xx{ish.},
Mae Lu @ thereafterish.!
There aren’t too many FCUK stores here either, but I figured I should give it a try. I’ve been craving midi lengths but I think you’re right, a true midi may not be as flattering in this silhouette. I’m trying to stay away from matching everything, but I do like how things “go” together instead. It’s way more contemporary anyways. =)
Fresh take for sure. I heart this outfit, everything from the scarf down to your shoes. It’s a different look on you, but still “you” if that makes any sense
I love it!
I totally get it and that’s what I wanted to achieve…something that’s different but still has my “signature” in it somehow.
Jess, it’s adorable!!!! I absolutely love it on you!!
love how you channelled the girl scout look.
i esp. love the scarf and houdstooth clutch against the neutrals. 
btw is the clutch a recent find?
I think the clutch is pretty old since houndstooth is more of a winter pattern. But I’m sure there are versions of this clutch floating around. =)
The pale pink/cream blouse goes wonderfully with the fullness of the skirt. You look like you could be in Gone With The Wind or other films at that time frame. I love this old fashion look….its feels vintage but yet is modern. I love skirts with movement!
this is one of my fave outfits of yours. i love the pairing of the blush color blouse with this utilitarian skirt. it’s a perfect match.
I love the skirt! It has such a beautiful silhouette. Those pumps are fierce, too
i think the look is really fashionable on you and how awesome that you found a French Connection item to work for you! and the herringbone clutch was the perfect accessory!
I love this outfit on you! Not dated at all!! The blouse is so pretty!
I would pick twirl endlessly only because you can do it when ever you want with out having to anywhere. Either way you look fab and that is an awesome clutch and watch.
Cheers,
Bre
I am so loving your outfit! You look amazing!
definitely a fresh take…love what you did with the skirt by pairing it with a silky blouse. the accessories are perfect!
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It’s fab, Jess! I’ve been thinking I need a skirt in that style in my wardrobe too, but I haven’t found my “love at first sight” one yet.
i have definitely encountered it a few times and i love it when that happens =P
the skirt is lovely!
I love this skirt Jess, and it looks beautiful paired with that blouse! I’m seriously tempted to try FC now.
Definitely not outdated! The accessories bring it to life!
I love the knots in your scarf!
I love the length and volume of this skirt! I guess you’re right, just below the knee is the petite girl’s midi skirt hehe But I think it’s really flattering.
I would definitely consider this my “midi” skirt. I have one that’s an actual midi, but it doesn’t have the same effect as this one and it’s not nearly as flattering. =)
I think my favorite outfit yet. Really loving that skirt!
I absolutely adore this look on you, but I especially love the houndstooth clutch!
LOVE the cut of that skirt!
Love how you styled this skirt! How in the world did you find shoes to match?
I actually picked up the shoes first. LOL. Super lucky I suppose. =P
Your style always seems so effortless! You’re one of my style icons, to be sure. I love the silhouette of the skirt (and skirts that make you want to twirl endlessly in general.)
Thanks for brightening my morning!
Aww, thanks for your comment! It made my day as much as it brightened up your morning! I hope I can live up to “style icon” title! =)
The outfit is lovely Jess! It’s very feminine, and the scarf goes really well with the skirt
I LOVE this!!! That skirt is fabulous and I can see why you fell in love with it.
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You always have such darling shoes! I have flats similar to those in purple velvet.
Love your skirt, it looks very good on you =)
Love the way your skirt flares out. Such an adorable ensemble!