Going out? As in going out in public? As in with other people...like commingling households? It is all very thrilling and maybe to some, even overwhelming. Covid-life was weird and now the return to real life is even weirder! That’s why I’ve conjured up this article: the tale of tops too pretty to be worn at home. The second half of 2021 is no longer just about tops and earrings (mindlessly worn with the same pair of joggers and slipper socks everyday for 18 months), no - it’s about full-fledged outfits! Remember, shoes? And if you’re too busy trying to remember how to socialize with strangers to put together a lewk just read on for outfit inspo.
Step One: Get a new top. Let’s be real: you probably have a full closet of new tops you bought for “maybe someday” last Spring. Retailers were basically giving away their full inventory for $5.00. Knock, knock, Someday is here! Today is Someday, so wear that top exactly the way you’ve been fantasizing, simply because you deserve it. If you’re one of those practical people with self-control and an athleisure-only-closet, the only new top you need for all your summer social events is white and strappy. You choose the details. Black is a safe bet, a sure-thing. But, white is even more versatile (for you practical folks out there) as it chameleons from day to night effortlessly. A white top doesn’t know when it’s going home and maybe neither do you? Also it is the lightest color to rock during heat waves in the middle of June.
When I first began online shopping, gathering inspo for this article, this ruffle camisole from Nordstorm’s immediately got my attention. It hits so many trends at once! Starting neck-down we have the babydoll tie made famous by peasant tops, but reinvented here with less fabric to build a more carefree summery top. Smocking is hot right now but, honestly, it is just always a good idea for anyone (Um, everyone.) looking to tuck (Not suck in!) and smooth their midsection. May this trend continue forever and evermore! Sometimes smocked tube tops get a bad rep as dinky and juvenile. Read: trying to look hot at a middle school dance. This smocked peasant top has more coverage to flatter more body types and all ages. Keep it flirty with some notice-me ruffles.
Which brings me to my next point on selecting your hot-girl-summer-wear it-everyday white top. Ruffles (in moderation) make everything from chips and dip to tops and skorts better. Without the ruffles on this Mango tee it would be just a v-neck t-shirt. The ruffles add texture, drama, and make the perfect neck spotlight for a necklace. It’s no surprise I am going to recommend gold here. It’s hard to describe but, gold jewelry just warms the look in a way silver cannot. Madewell jewelry is the perfect combo of a shiny and matte gold finish. A simple ring stack will make the full fit read California. Make this structured top chill with loose and faded jeans and flip-flops. See? Getting dressed (for real, for real) is actually easier than you may remember.
The main trick to dressing comfy/casual is picking pieces in nicer fabrics with texture. A light ribbed sweater knit is everywhere right now for good reason. This is a fabric you will want to show off so pass if it’s low-cut. Score a white or cream top with modern-day flower child sleeve ties that cascade down the shoulders. I’m most often seen in mine with frayed cut offs and baby sunglasses or a wrap skirt. If I wear my favorite white going out tops with full-length jeans it’s purely because I want to use a vintage scarf as a belt. Another perk of white: it makes the colors of your accessories pop. One or two accessories will suffice – making this a true lazy gal look.
Another comfy/cute but less casual top to go for: a satin cross neck. I’d rock this one in more of an off-white so that pearly glow of the satin doesn’t get misconstrued as a cut up bridal robe. (Though if you were just a bride...idea alert!) Add wooden heels – you know the ones that are like open-toe clogs? And a matching skirt. Proof that sets are not synonymous with sweats. My go-to summer muse is the 1960s-1970s era. Breeze-blown braids, tied tops, low backs, thick-cut hoops and frayed edges equal Endless Summer.
Looking carefree and relaxed is hard when going literally anywhere feels very much high key! Don’t over think the styling and buy a white top. And probably a Tide To-Go pen.
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