Growing Up Taylor

On one of my favorite blogs, TaySwiftStyle, Sarah - the stylish sweetheart of an owner - has a Questions section which from time to time receives specific fashion queries. A recent one got my fashion brain revving. It involved "maturing" Taylor's girly Fearless/Speak Now era fashion. As a Jackie-come-lately to super feminine style, I've tended to take the approach of adding frothy pieces to femme-ify a fairly minimalist, classic wardrobe. But, what if Swift-esque frills have always been your thing? How do you grow with the look, especially if you're taking those sensibilities to college or the workplace? And even more especially, if you are slim and/or slight of height, how do stay true to you without looking like you're twelve? Naturally, I have ideas and  I wanted to expound on them here :). The secret is to incorporate a bit of structure and polish, while still keeping enough frothy detail to leave you feeling gorgeous. There are a number of really stunning, artisanal blouses out right now that are flawless for doing this (and which also happen to be spot on-trend ;)). Think lace, ruffles, florals, embroidery, appliquees. They're your new non-dress go-to. For realz. Don't fear sweet shades like blush and lavender, either! You can balance all the candy out on the bottom. Pair these crave-worthy confections with slim, polished chinos and refined knee length pencil skirts (avoid minis - they'll look either too young or as if you're trying too hard). Midi skirts are completely do-able here, as are maxis - there is something unavoidably chic and mature about a maxi skirt, done in the right materials (eschew jersey knits and crinkle cottons and choose silk, woven cottons, taffeta or georgette). (Alternatively, definitely consider going for a gives-you-heart-eyes ruffled, pleated or be-tulled maxi - just reverse the frilly-to-minimal relationship and go simple on top). Use soft neutrals like blush, pearl gray and beige to ground sentimental pastels or try out enchanting jewel tones like plum and deep pine. If you simply *have* to pair multiple colors, it can be done - just use one lighter and one darker tone. Mint and lilac looks quite young, but lilac and burgundy, blush and navy or sky blue and mustard evoke wisdom and style competence in a confidently romantic way. Lastly: shoes. This is crucial: when you're trying to grow up a girly look, stay away from bowed flats, sequins and similar youthful-in-feel footwear. Instead, think refined but vivacious styles like block-heeled ankle straps, lace-up flats, urban-leaning ankle booties and pointy-toe pumps. Happy styling, Fancies!