Hello Summer :: part 2, red hot LBDs

Thursday, May 21, 2015

My second installment of Hello Summer, featuring YouTube sensation Katy Bellotte, focuses on the LBD. Not only is the little black dress an essential closet staple for any woman, but it's universally flattering and versatile. Take a look at how Katy and I styled this seasonless classic in two very different, yet nonetheless stylish and summery, ways. 
I put this look together by layering a knotted crop top over a black dress. I love layering pieces to create whole new looks and I think this outfit is a great example of that. With one simple adjustment I have transformed my LBD into an LBS (little black skirt). However, you can create a similar effect with an actual black high waisted skirt too. 
These striped tennies are the perfect slip-on-and-go shoe; ideal for the girl who's constantly on the run. Stripes give the shoe personality and puts them a step above your average white Keds. I love how they compliment the thin red stripes on my top too. After all, playing with prints is definitely a summer fashion DO!  
Over the past year hats have quickly become one of my favorite accessories. In an instant they can change the entire dynamic and vibe of your look. I get tons of use out of this black fedora and due to it's material, it's ideal for warm weather. When shopping for a summer hat, look for ones made out of straw or another similar, lightweight material. 
Leather-banded watches are coming back in a big way this season. With these guys, bigger is better. I love the classic feel of a black, leather watch; they add a touch of sophistication and refined polish to whatever you're wearing. Opt for black over nude or white if you crave a splash of edge in your everyday style. 
This outfit works well in any casual setting from lunch dates to a trip to the museum. And the great thing about an LBD is that they work day or night. Slip on some strappy, black heels after hours and you're ready to hit the nightlife scene. 
On Kathleen// dress: H&M (old but similar here), crop top: Nordstrom (old but similar here), hat: Urban Outfitters (I also like this one), sneakers: Urban Outfitters (old but similar here and here), necklace: John Hardy, earrings: Francesca's (old but I also like these), bangles: Alex & Ani, watch: Coach (old but similar here)
Katy uses her LBD to channel her inner bohemian princess. But layered necklaces, fringe detailing, and a vibrant print elevate her look from gypsy to haute hippie in a hot second. 
Last summer brought us the return of the Birkenstock sandal and this year they are here to stay. Here's why: they're insanely comfortable and healthy for your feet, they're effortless and incredibly easy, and they're the perfect example of the ugly-pretty phenomenon that occurs in fashion. There's a big difference between pretty ugly and plain ugly. Pretty ugly works because it's quirky, out-there, and different. Birkenstocks are fashionable in their own right and they make a statement that it's not just okay to march to the beat of your own drum, it's cool. 
Let me tell you, these pictures do not do this stunning kimono justice. The way the light hits the fabric and how the fringe tassels dance with every movement makes this piece the star of the show. A kimono is the perfect summer coverup because it provides protection from the sun and air conditioning yet it's light enough to throw in a bag or wear during those long summer nights without getting too hot. 
Although it's hard to tell in this photo, Katy's necklace has "free spirit" imprinted on its pendant. I can't think of a more perfect way to describe her LBD style! 
On Katy// dress: Brandy Melville (similar here), kimono: Free People, long necklace: Urban Outfitters (similar here), star necklace: Etsy (similar here), sandals: Birkenstock 
Photos by Brooke Faison 
From preppy artist to bohemian goddess, there's a fitting look out there for anyone looking to rock an LBD this summer. Katy and I both chose red as complimentary colors, which was actually a complete coincidence, but it happened for a reason. Black and red is a color combo that truly stands out and looks great on any skin tone or personality. Go ahead, take your black dress to red hot status! 

Stay tuned for our last collaboration post! 

SHOP ::


23 comments:

  1. Amazing looks
    http://ichbinsil.blogspot.mx
    Ichbinsil.blogspot.mx

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  2. Your outfits look really nice!
    http://www.thoughtsinstyle.com/

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  3. wow, looks great!
    maybe follow each other? what do you think?
    kiss!
    PS. i just publish new giveaway. You can win great dress. :)

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  4. Absolutely love both outfits! I haven't ever considered LBD's for summertime, but you're both rocking it and definitely inspired me to try it out :)

    Sadie | maybeitismay.com

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  5. I love how versatile a LBD is! You both styled your dresses perfectly! I'm following HelloKaty on YouTube now :)

    http://elementsofellis.com/

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  6. Both of you girls look amazing! These are the perfect kind of summer outfits that go anywhere from the beach to the BBQ! Love them both!
    Coffee Beans and Bobby Pins

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  7. You both look adorable :)

    http://checkinonline.blogspot.pt

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  8. Lovely colors and outfits. Very festival appropriate!
    Rachelxo

    Garay Treasures

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  9. I love both looks! Your hat is so cute!

    www.fashion-board.blogspot.com

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  10. Both of you look adorable in your summer outfits! The skirt/sneaker combo is always perfect for a casual summer look, but I'm a lover of kimonos too.


    Jackie
    Something About That

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  11. What a marvellous shooting darling! You're so beautiful!! Love the colors:)
    Baci,
    Coco et La vie en rose - Valeria Arizzi

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  12. I really like that kimono! Nice post girls.

    kisses
    http://shinkusara.blogspot.nl

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  13. I love both looks! Styling the LBD with a knotted top is such an interesting idea, and just chucking on a fringed kimono is such an effortless way to chic up the LBD! Loved this!

    May x • The MaydenBloglovin'

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  14. These dresses look so versatile! They look great dressed down, and I bet you can dress them up no problem, too.

    https://forsevenseasons.wordpress.com

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  15. Love both the looks! The hat takes it to another level.
    Chichistashan.blogspot.in

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  16. Cannot go wrong with an LBD. Great looks!

    Amy Ann
    Straight A Style

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  17. love both looks! such great ways to style a classic lbd :) love it!

    katslovefashion.blogspot.com

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  18. You both look beautiful <3 You look like sisters!
    xoxo,
    snowprincessbella.blogspot.com

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  19. You both look amazing! Love the dresses :) x

    http://whiteshirtchic.blogspot.co.uk/

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  20. Very lovely summer outfits!

    x Kimberly // THEKIMMYDIARIES.COM

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  21. You girls are so beautiful!
    Bouth outfits are amazing!

    Arrow

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  22. What a great to get more wear out of your LBD, great idea!!

    House of Illusions

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