This year’s heat-wave has gifted uncharacteristically-warm summers to many places around the world, our normally rainy Manchester among them. It got me looking back on past times I had experienced warm weather and how I struggled to stay true to my style and comfortable at the same time.
I think my problem in the past was that I relied too heavily on “signature items” and thought I needed to wear them all year round to be “me”. There was also an element of feeling like I was “selling out” if I gave up an item that defined my style, in favour of something more weather appropriate. I remember there was a year when I went to the beach in leather army boots because they were the only type of footwear I considered acceptable at the time.
I now feel confident enough in my style to change things up a bit. I can find a version of every type of clothing or footwear that can be made to fit my style so I no longer have items I “don’t wear”. Also, I’ve evolved beyond that and can now also wear items that don’t fit my style as such, without feeling like I’m losing my identity.
On this occasion, we were heading to a friend’s birthday party. I didn’t have long to get ready and I wanted to spend most of that time on my makeup so I needed a really simple outfit that I could just throw on. I decided on this embellished leotard from Zara (I try not to buy much from the high street, but occasionally I find a piece I love) and paired it with a fitted, black jersey skirt with a slit up one side and roucheing across the hips. The cut and fabrics of both items were perfect for the warm weather and I really enjoyed the walk in the evening sun.
As an extra step to stay cool and to add more detail to my relatively simple outfit, I decided on this braids and pun hairstyle. It’s a variation on two hairstyles I do a lot, but instead of a top knot, I opted for a fanned bun, paired with a Dutch braid down each side.
You may also notice that I’m wearing sandals here, I found a pair I really liked about 5 years ago and they are still going strong!
OUTFIT:
Embellished bodysuit: Zara
Jersey skirt: eBay
Sandals and bra: Topshop
Sunglasses: H&M
Earrings: Dixi
Photography by Richard Ayres
I love your outfit and style. It really suit and the eyeshadow are really pretty.
Three of my favourite brands, Topshop, Zara and H&M. Great outfit and loves the ease with which you carry yourself
Stunningly beautiful and exudes a persona of class and style. Love the gowns!
I really love your look, especially the lipstick! You’re totally rockin’ it.
you are slaying this look !
I just loved your makeup. Worth all the effort! Since I am a shoe lover, I couldn’t help but notice those awesome gladiators. The best part was “I’ve evolved beyond that and can now also wear items that don’t fit my style as such, without feeling like I’m losing my identity.
I like your dress, it looks alluring and chic.
Edgy yet comfortable…. I like your style….. I think comfort is the key.. . It never goes out of style….
So cool! Your outfit looks fancy. I would love to try out this style!
Way to go! Such a wonderful narrative of your fashion evolution. Indeed we are what we were and sometimes we tend to compromise comfort over looks. Am glad you always take time to analyze everything up while dressing up! Thanks for such a wonderful post.
I love this outfit. Even color black looks cool in this one
My wife is a huge fan of your blog and she loved this posts. She says thanks!
lol wearing boots to the beach, thats dope. I love that style of yours. I wish if i was more comfy like you with my body
Good Tips and amazing picture!
About Outfit ? OMG! You looks beautiful!
I totally love your outfit. This look suits you so well…
Love your hair style and outfit. Thanks for sharing.
I completely love your outfit
Love your signature style. The braids, the bun, the clothes…it all works so well together.
I think your hairstyle bring off that cool vibe to add with the outfit.
Hey Stacey!
I think you have definitely evolved in style from what I have seen. I think the people that know you and are around you know your “signature style” and there is no risk of selling out. The moment I look at you I know you are something special. From the style, the earrings, the look (with a little don’t mess with me touch).
You would feel at home in Sweden!
Best,
Kostas
I don’t think I am either cool or edgy. 🙂
Love this outfit. I wish my hair would go like that.