Loving Lately: Tees+Maxis

I've mentioned previously how much I enjoy wearing skirts in the summer, especially longer ones that I can throw a pair of capri leggings underneath and feel both comfortable and feminine at the same time. Lately, I've settled into a particular combination that's become both a favorite and almost a uniform: a maxi skirt paired with a plain, basic tee. It's an easy combination that offers plenty of room for variety and is fun to wear - there's just something about the  flow and movement of a long skirt :).  Pair a blue top with a lilac skirt for a symphony of blues.  Try a laidback, sporty gray heather piece with sweet textured lace. Contrast bright stripes with classic black for a moodier take on summer.  I've especially been attracted to combinations involving less refined, slightly boxy tees with broad, ribbed trim. The key to the look (and keeping it casual-office appropriate, if, like me, you choose to wear it to work) is to pair those super-casual tops with a more formal skirt: pleated pieces, ones with a sheen to the fabric (or even sequins :), eyelet or tulle confections).  Save the super-beachy knits and crinkle-fabrics and for another day. A fully tucked tee works perfectly for skirts with a structured material and/or non-elastic waistbands. Or, try my favorite styling method: knotting the tee at the side-center of your waist (approximately below where my shoulder and collar bone meet). (PS this looks fabulous on elastic-waist pieces, since it ups their formality by camouflaging the elastic). Center-front and back knots work quite nicely too! Use the knot to dictate where the waist of the tee falls:  at the same height as the skirt’s waistband for a classic look, lower for a slouchier and slightly blouson effect, higher if you’re in a situation where you can show off some skin (or throw a cami underneath and get that color-block thing working for you).  The cami layered below is also your friend if you’re giving this a try with one of those infamous see-through tees.  One last styling note: if you're a fan of cap sleeves (or just need them shorter for reasons), def consider rolling your sleeves - it s great way to add casual polish and create more visual curve by accenting your shoulders.  And now, to shoes! Shoes are crucial for this styling. The look sets up a dynamic of equally weighted formality-informality and your footwear should walk a similar line. Chunky-heeled sandals are my top choice with wedge espadrilles hot on their heels (har har :)). Mules are an on-trend way to capture that chill-meets-polished vibe. Other options include boots of nearly any variety and, if your skirt isn't super formal, sneakers (yes to sneaks with stripes, less yes to sneaks with lace - not saying it's c'est impossible, just a bit trickier to make cohesive. Flat sandals are 100% acceptable as well - think more "leather slide" than "flip-flop".  Happy styling, loves!