Author: dreamyrealist

It cracks me up that in the early 2000’s the long tops and low rise jeans were in and now we have swung the other way with high waisted everything and crop tops galore. I will say I am thankful that low rises have taken a time out and all things high waisted are here to stay. Now crop tops are another story. It is almost like when I see some of my favorite bloggers or style icons rocking a crop top I am alllll about it! Now when I slipped one on for the first time I felt like, ok looks like I can’t raise my arms, sit down, or make any rapid movements in this thing or its all over. Really what it boiled down to was finding the right kind of top, quality is totally key.

Second, the little insecure voice inside my head was also holding me back from rocking this trend. Thinking about how I already feel insecure about my mid section and then I am going to expose my stomach to the whole world while in line at Trader Joes, at the movie theater seeing the Lion King, or singing “Proud Mary” on stage at karaoke.

Well, my friends I got over this insecurity thanks to this gingham wrap skirt from Ellos. As I was trying to style this beauty nothing felt right. A top looked tucked in was too bunchy, untucked looked sloppy, so that is when this white linen crop top made its appearance from the back of the closet. So lets hold hands and dive into this trend together. Here is a round up of some of my favorite tops that I think can look great on anyone for these final days of summer!

XO

Catherine

When wearing sequins comes across my day dreaming I automatically equate wearing sequins either on new years eve, the Grammy Awards (ya know when I eventually get invited), or that one time I had this Limited Too purse that had just a touch of sequins to make me feel like I was cool. When it does not cross my mind to sport sequins is in the middle of summer.

Yes I agree, I hear you over there thinking it is so dang hot out there is no way I can wear more than a napkin designed into some kind of top, because wearing anything else will make you sweat to all ends! Lets admit though, there are those times where you may want to be a bit of a head turner with your sequins shining in the sun and basically you are feeling as fresh as a giant disco ball.

I chose this midi sequin skirt for my shoot this month with Sarah in front of the glorious mural designed by Meg Biram which really embodies the vibrant community of old town and the local boutique district!

The art of sequins in the summer all depends on the piece. Midi skirts with a high slit, sheer like poly blend tanks with a touch of sequin, mini dresses, clutches, camisoles and more is what I rounded up for you guys below! These pieces are all from Asos because they are having some serious sequin moments.

If you were to say to me, “Hey Catherine, throw on this form fitted midi sweater dress in 90 degree weather…” I would have given you some maaaaaaaaaaaaajor side eye and would have pretended I didn’t hear you. That sounds like some major uncomfortable madness to me! Then I came across this little 525 America little number and my perspective has changed a bit. I guess I have to give a big shout out to my friend Ellen who is like the connoisser (need to check the spelling on that one) of sweater dresses. Every other week I am usually receiving a screenshot of a Rent the Runway look that she is like YOU MUST RENT THIS ASAP! Well, after every excuse in the book I decided to give this trend a twirl. Of course, trying out sweater dresses in the middle of summer sounds like a stunning idea…said no one ever.

I think the key to success during these summer months is finding the right texture and weight. Now the heavy knit options are a definite no go, save those for your fall time frolicking. Textures that have the weight of almost cotton are a perfect go-to if you are wanting to jump on this trend. I guess if you want to get real specific this is a “rib knitted dress.” Now I am craving bbq ribs…dang it! If you are feeling more confused than ever on what I am even talking about now since we have skipped around on so many topics I went ahead and did a round up of some of my favorite knit looks that you can wear immediately! I know I am always buzzing about Rent the Runway, but it honestly has opened up my eyes to so many brands that I didn’t even realize carried above size 14 let alone unique looks!

XO

Catherine