Hello Summer :: part 2, red hot LBDs

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 ::

Hello Summer :: part 1, tanks & fringe

Welcome to the first installment of my Hello Summer series, a collaboration extravaganza with YouTube sensation Katy Bellotte of HelloKaty. Katy and I had so much fun shooting these photos for you all and there's video footage too (including behind the scenes shots)! Checkout the super cool vid Katy put together for her channel by clicking here. 

My Hello Summer series is inspired by all things, well, summer! Katy and I drew inspiration from long sunny days, starry nights, and sizzling hot styles that are our favorite of-the-moment trends. The looks we prepared for you are fresh, current, and will take you from one summer adventure to the next without missing a beat. Enjoy our first looks! 

This layered necklace is so versatile and eye-catching and I just love its one-and-done mentality. While I still get the super trendy look of having layered jewelry, it's all just one piece, which makes accessorizing a cinch. 

I decided to pair my white skirt with sneakers rather than sandals because I love the appeal of contrasting elements in one look. These sneaks dress down my outfit in the coolest, most laid-back way possible. They give my look an effortless, easygoing vibe, which grasps the mood of summer perfectly. 

I am a huge accessories girl but for this look I wanted to keep my extras refined and minimal. This cuff adds major polish to my ensemble without drawing too much attention to itself. I love its subtle yet impactful allure. 

My favorite thing about my first Hello Summer look is its undeniable versatility. It's easy for anyone to recreate with items they already own, and it's a polished yet sporty look that works in almost any summertime situation. 

On Kathleen// tank: Loft, skirt: Ann Taylor, sneakers: Converse, necklace: Loft (I also like this one), cuff: Loft (I also like this one), earrings: Kate Spade, silver bracelet: Tiffany & Co.

Katy takes modern fairytale dressing to the next level in ethereal layers, light fringe, and sparkling details. Her look is ideal for summer festivals, daycations, or anywhere you can find outdoor music. 

Fringe is an elegant way to capture the so-now 70s vibe that's been influencing much of the fashion world lately. Not to mention it's fun to twirl in ;) 

Katy's simple, delicate necklace is the icing on her perfectly-styled cake. Who knew such a small accessory could make such an impact? 

Down here in the South, where Katy and I both go to school, cowboy boots are a staple. I've learned that there's nothing they don't go with. 

How gorgeous and magical is this slip? I can't get over the intricate detailing and all that sparkle! Such a beautiful way to add some twinkle to an airy daytime look. 

On Katy// Vest: Free People, shorts: Free People, Bralette: Urban Outfitters, slip: Urban Outfitters, boots: Ariat (I like these too), necklace: Etsy (I like this one too)

Photos by Brooke Faison  

Stay tuned for our next summertime look. Hint - it's red hot! 

SHOP :: 

A Step Above :: striped crop top + white midi

Yes I know, another crop top + skirt pairing. I told you that I couldn't get enough! This outfit was inspired by summer days (which are fast approaching) and I think it's the perfect look to own when you have that in-between event that's not super fancy but one that you still want to look put-together for - cue family gatherings or a daytime date. 

Can we just talk about this skirt for a second? This right here is the piece that takes my entire look to the next level. It's polished, modern, and can work just as easily in a laid-back setting as it can in a formal one #Versatility. 

Purchasing these sandals was a game changer for me. Just like with this look, these shoes are perfect for those occasions when flats are too casual but a sleek heel/pump is too dressy. In short, they're a step above your average sandal, which is why I love them so much! 

This was my first time getting henna and I absolutely love how it turned out. I let the artist freestyle the design and for a while there I was considering a hand tattoo for real - but then I realized that having permanent ink on my hand is way too much of a commitment for me. 

This silver shell necklace reminds me of summer...maybe because I bought it during the summer? But there's just something very beachy about wearing a shell around your neck. And cast in silver, this beach classic transforms into a refined and delicate piece. 

When it comes to earrings, I've been a studs girl for the past couple of years. But for some dangle earrings I make an exception. I like these ones because they're light yet impactful. They're easy to spot even when my hair is down and they give an elegant edge to any ensemble. 

Perks of a crop top/high waisted skirt combo: you don't have to worry about tucking anything in! 

 Photos by Brooke Faison 

[top: Ann Taylor (old but similar here), skirt: Loft, sandals: Sam Edelman, necklace: Ann Taylor (old but similar here), earrings: Ann Taylor, watch: Fossil, bangles: Alex & Ani]

Having an in-between outfit in your style repertoire is essential. This is one of those outfits for me. It's a step above a casual afternoon of BBQ and it makes any outing a bit more special. I wore this look to brunch one weekend followed by a dance concert with a friend. Once evening rolled around I slipped into black, high-waisted skinny jeans for the bar scene. 

 SHOP ::