TBMD

Ripped shorts and a top are usually my no-fuss, on-the-go casual outfits for weekends. But sometimes, there is that urge to change things up. So staying true to the same theme, it doesn't get any more low maintenance than tossing on an easy-breezy dress. Boat shoes and a slouchy hobo round out the look. Lastly, I just had to make the outfit somewhat interesting somehow... so on went the cheerful lime bag charm that brings a smile to my face.

I felt like a walking advertisement for Where's Waldo?, though of the female, colorful, and preppy variety. I've tried (and owned) a few shirtdresses over the years. My biggest problem with most is how they ride up when I raise my arms. To a lesser extent, they tend to somehow emphasize problem areas (too tight) or need belting (too loose). But this Waldo shirtdress is love at first sight! The fabric is thick and heavy enough that the hem doesn't ride up easily. I didn't feel fat nor felt like I'm wearing a sack. This dress is a throwback of J.Crew's from 1984 that they brought back. Unfortunately, I picked up the dress in the dead of winter, so very limited sizes are avail now. However, the shirt version is still available in many sizes in navy ivory.

What's your one piece of clothing that instantly elevates an outfit from drab to chic? For me, hands down, is a leather jacket. Leather jackets have that way of upping the coolness factor for an outfit (do I sound like a dork right now?) and it works in almost every situation. When I'm unsure of an outfit -- too sloppy? too matronly-looking? too anything, I grab a leather jacket of choice, and voila, I'm ready to head out the door.

There are so many cute ways to wear a scarf. The simplest might just be draping it over the shoulders. It doesn't add warmth (not necessary this time of year anyway), but it does add visual interest. Simplicity at its best.

Heatwave or not, summer has officially arrived! It's been particularly challenging this year because the combination of humidity and allergies has been kicking my butt. I do what I can to stay comfortable, like wearing breathable cotton to stay cool and also sunglasses to shield flying pollen. As an added bonus, it also hides my watery eyes... though not much can be helped when the waterworks start on very high pollen days.

Today's outfit inspiration credit goes to Nordstrom -- the link I seemed to have lost :( It's what I like to call a blend of feminine meets masculine -- the embroidered and fringe top paired with what DH calls my "lumberjack" look (flannel + jeans).