All posts in: summer style

5 European Summer Style Trends

[THIS POST OF 5 european summer style trends CONTAINS AFFILIATE LINKS. IF YOU MAKE A PURCHASE I MAY RECEIVE A COMMISSION AT NO ADDITIONAL COST TO YOU. THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT IN THIS WAY!]

 I’ve always admired European style and wanted to emulate that effortless elegance. From Paris to Milan to London to Madrid, it’s like they were all born with an eye for fashion. Europeans always appear so put together without overdoing it or trying too hard.  Me? I have to work at it. I have to find what I like, copy it,  and maybe embellish with my own unique take where I can. So you better believe that when I was recently traveling in Spain, I was observed and noted the summer style trends to bring home and replicate. Check out my roundup of the 5 European Summer Style Trends we can all replicate at home – wherever that may be!

1) Monochrome

One chic European summer style trend that I saw everywhere was monochrome. I spotted this look on women walking into their office buildings, having a late night cocktail, and also just doing some casual shopping. This was typically executed with a monochromatic set like this one from ASOS. So many fabulous European ladies were rocking trouser pants like this option from Express paired with a matching extra long blazer or button up blouse. The colors ranged from elegant neutrals to bold jewel tones like this emerald green monochrome set.

Monochromatic Outfits

2) espadrilles

I’m sure your next question is, “well what shoes were they wearing with these outfits?” Loads and loads of espadrilles like these cuties. But like I mentioned before, I was in Spain, which is the birthplace of espadrilles (true fact!). So keep in mind that espadrilles will naturally be more prevalent there. They ranged from wedge espadrilles versions like this to simple flat espadrilles like this to more intricate lace up versions like this, which definitely seemed to be more of a European summer style trend. There were massive lines outside of the espadrille making shops where you could pick your height, color, heel, and strap and get a totally customized pair of espadrilles – the perfect souvenir and summer staple!

Summer Espadrilles

3) linen

Not unique to Europe, but certainly more prevalent, I’ve included Linen in my 5 European Summer Style Trends. I noticed many women wearing either linen slacks like these or linen shorts like these. But also cute linen sets like this one! These linen outfits really seemed to elevate any look, while also offering a LITTLE relief from the insane Spanish heat! The most common linen wardrobe staple were the classic white linen pants, which would look SO cute paired with these classic yet edgy espadrille heels.

Linen Summer Outfits

4) Neutral Sneakers and high tops

Another European summer style trend that I noticed and swooned over was the popularity of simple sneakers. They were paired with dresses, trousers, shorts, and everything in between! These were by far the most popular pair of little white sneakers worn with everything. Some pairs had cute embellishments like studs or foil and some were super simple. I also saw a ton of ladies wearing my favorite Converse high tops, which I had actually brought along so I felt like a local. Surprisingly, sandals really were not a big thing being worn in Europe, but I’m not sure I can give those up as much as I’d like to appear European chic 😉

White Summer Sneakers

5) satin dresses

The last of my 5 European Summer Style Trend roundup is satin dresses like this and satin maxi skirts like this. I loved the pairing of a sexy satin summer dress paired with cute little white sneakers. This is the epitome of that effortless fashion sense I was talking about before! The satin dresses that really caught my eye were bold colors like this one or subtle texture prints like this or bold florals like this one.

Satin Dresses

Whether you’re European fashion obsessed like me or you’re just looking for some Summery outfit inspiration, I hope you found some styles you’d like to recreate in your own wardrobe! If you enjoyed this roundup of 5 European Summer Style Trends and would like more summer outfit inspiration then check out this post on Amazon Summer Neutrals

Thanks for reading! 

Xx, Ashley

5 Ways to Style Amazon Spring Neutral Outfits

[THIS POST OF 5 WAYS TO STYLE AMAZON SPRING NEUTRALS CONTAINS AFFILIATE LINKS. IF YOU MAKE A PURCHASE I MAY RECEIVE A COMMISSION AT NO ADDITIONAL COST TO YOU. THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT IN THIS WAY!]

Are you ready to transition from heavy flannels and dreary colors to the easy breezy fabrics and hues of Spring? Me too! Typically, I’m one for fun florals and pastels, but this year I’m gravitating toward neutrals. I used to think that dressing in neutrals was boring and lacked creativity, but now that I’m playing around with them, I’m realizing how wrong I was! If you’re interested in how to style Spring neutrals, then check out these beautiful Amazon Spring neutral outfits I’m loving and my 5 ways to style Spring neutrals!

1. Texture Mixing:

Avoid your spring neutral outfits going “blah” by mixing up the textures to add a little more intrigue. This Amazon Spring neutral outfit is put together with a white eyelet crop top and a nude pleated midi skirt. Both textures are delicate and complement each other to maintain the softness of the colors. You could also do this with satins, linens, denims, and chiffons.  

2. Surprising Accessories:

Another way to jazz up your Spring neutrals is to add a surprising accessory! Here I have paired a delicately feminine Amazon Spring dress with some little white cowgirl boots – an unlikely pairing that elevates the look and makes it more interesting. Another shoe I love to pair with sweet dresses are this pair of high tops. You could also try a silk scarf in your hair or around your neck, statement earrings like these, or fun bag like these.

3. Same Pieces Multiple Ways:

It’s easy to fall into the habit of wearing one piece of clothing the same way every time your wear it, but break that habit to maximize your wardrobe! Below is an example of styling this Amazon Spring neutral crop top for a dressier occasion vs. a more casual occasion. I’ve also taken this neutral graphic t-shirt and styled with the same denim jacket and high tops, but different bottoms. Avoid the wardrobe rut at all costs!

4. Dresses with Details:

Spring neutral outfits can easily become boring so keep an eye out for pieces that have interesting details. Take this neutral maxi dress for example, at first look it’s just a tan maxi dress, but look closer and you’ll see the beautiful white details on all the hems – which also makes it look a lot more premium than something you found on Amazon. Another example is this ombre hi-low dress. The cut of the hem paired with the ombre neutral colors make the dress way more fun than hi-low that’s all one color or an ombre dress that’s just a midi length.

5. Black is Neutral:

Maybe this is common knowledge, but it took me a minute to realize that black is considered a neutral color – and hallelujah because it’s one of my favorite colors to style. Here are two creative ways to make black interesting: this fun Amazon Spring jumpsuit and this maxi skirt that I hiked up and styled as a dress. Yes I’m serious! See the picture above 😊

Amazon shorts romper
Maxi skirt worn as a dress

I hope this was helpful and gave you some inspiration for how to style your Spring neutrals! Even if bright colors and prints are your thing, it’s fun to change it up from time to time! If you loved this post of 5 ways to style Amazon Spring Neutrals then what is something else you’d like some tips on styling? Let me know!

xx, Ashley

Target Must-Have Styles for Spring & Summer


Scroll down for Spring and Summer style at Target!

Picture this: it’s a day ending in “-day”, you wake up, brush your teeth, maybe brush your hair, put on some tie-dye lounge-wear, do a a little bit of work, maybe a run if you’re feeling sassy, eat copious amounts of snacks, and browse the internet until you fall asleep. THEN you wake up and do the exact same thing. We are all living the same day on repeat and while many places are starting to reopen, Chicago is not one of them. Before I continue, I do want to note that I am in no way insensitive to the immense hardships many people are facing. My family has been hit both financially and physically, it’s a very difficult time and my heart goes out to all of you. I just hope this article adds a little levity to your day.

There are so many things that I miss being able to do and I know I’m not alone in this, which is actually really and strangely comforting, that we aren’t alone. [Whoever you are, wherever you are – please know you are not alone! We’re in this together. xx] I’ve realized that the things I miss most aren’t necessarily what I would have guessed, but are much more the little every day things that I take for granted. The Italian in me just wants to hug literally everyone at all times (more about me)! I really miss that human touch. I miss my family, my besties, that little Indian restaurant around the corner, and so much more…. like shopping! Yeah, yeah I know I can go online, but there’s something about browsing a store, finding hidden gems I didn’t even know I needed ;), that I really miss!

SO MANY GOOD SALES

In this uncertain economic climate my brain knows that I should be saving, BUT EVERYTHING IS ON SALE!  I’ve truly found some absolute gems and amazing deals. I’m realizing that perusing the liketoknow.it app, following influencer stories, and scrolling through  favorite store’s website has become a solid replacement for browsing in a real store. It’s definitely a welcome escape and I get so excited when the packages arrive. It’s like the opposite of instant gratification, but it makes the joy last even longer and I love that.

TARGET DRESSES

I ordered these affordable Spring dresses from Target during their sale about two weeks ago. I’m wearing the camo t-shirt dress in a large. The dress is extremely comfy and could definitely be dressed up with some nude/tan wedges and a tan moto jacket, cute sandals and a jean jacket, or even dressed down as a beach cover up! It runs a little large, I could have gone with a medium. For reference, I’m 5’2″, 38D, large booty!  It’s currently $20.00!

This lilac midi dress comes in blue, green, burgundy, and white. I nearly got white, but I’m really happy with this fun color. It looks pink on the Target website, but is much more lavender in person. I recommend sizing down as it’s a bit over-sized. It’s super floaty and soft, I can’t wait to wear this to a thousand places, a thousand different ways. It’s currently $34.99, but I purchased it on sale – so keep an eye out! One thing I love about Target is that you can set alerts for sales and even to get notified when your favorite styles come back into stock.

THE CUTEST EYELET TOP  YOUR CLOSET CAN’T LIVE WITHOUT

Spring and Summer style isn’t complete without the perfect white tee. I bought these daisy jeans recently from abercrombie and I knew I wanted to pair them with a plain white tee, but then I came across this gorgeous eyelit long sleeve t-shirt from Target and had to have it. The sleeves are so beautifully structured with a slight poof at the shoulder. The body of the top is light and flexible. I want one in every color! It comes in red and rust, TTS, only $19.99. I think this compliments my new, fave jeans so well and is perfect for Spring when there’s still a slight chill in the air.

GRAPHIC T-SHIRTS AND DISTRESSED SHORTS

Your Spring and Summer wardrobe isn’t complete without a few classic graphic tees. I cannot say this loudly enough: Target’s graphic t-shirt selection was amazing even before it was trendy. THEN they came out with this Taylor Swift Lover t-shirt. I swear I’d buy multiple just because I know I’m going to wear this one so much it’ll be tattered one day, and that day will be a very sad day. I bought this in an XL because I wanted it to be over-sized and it’s perfect. I think I’ve worn it three days this week #sorrynotsorry. Then I found this Guns N’ Roses t-shirt that I’ve seen circulating Instagram and it’s also fabulous, I’m wearing a L. Both were only $14.99, you really can’t beat it. 

The distressed shorts with the Taylor Swift T are super stretchy and have a lot of give, which is great if you overindulge at a summer bbq. I really like the longer inseam because I can’t stand when my shorts ride up between my legs. This pair is a size 12, but I would’ve preferred a 10, unfortunately they were out of stock and I needed something quickly. I’ll make them work!

Thanks for checking out my favorite recent Target purchases. So affordable, great quality, and extremely versatile which is everything I look for in my clothes. I hope this helps your future Target run! Happy shopping 🙂

xx,

Ashley