Inspiration Board: Alexa - Bliss In Black

Alexa has been demonstrating a talent for nailing cute outfits, so it's high time we get inspired by her style. This outfit is a great way to start! While the graphic tee is tons of fun, the real key to this look is the pairing of the A-line/flared/skater skirt and mid-calf boots, an unusual shaft height that looks amazingly chic if done just right. Proportion is crucial -you want to make sure there's significant space between the hem of your skirt and the top of the boot, so they'll work best with skirts in the fingertip to just-above-the-knee length categories. (The other option is to choose  a skirt that extends beyond the top of the boot, but that's for another day :)). A midi length skirt will tend to shorten your line when paired with a mid-calf length. It can look quite blocky, so basically, if you see that pairing in your future...RETREAT! :). Heel heights can range from low 1-2" block heels to 4" stilettos. The lower heel - especially with a slouchy silhouette - will have a casual-quirky vibe, while a higher heel will be a bit fiercer -think "urban trendsetter"-, so pick your passion!  This look also benefits from a touch of volume on the bottom, so definitely consider pleats, with or without the A-line shape. After the skirt, the next step is to add your graphic or band tee of choice. Top the look with a cropped biker or military jacket. If you need a warmer variation, ditch the tee for a flannel shirt. Tuck it in or knot it at the waist. If you choose the first option, follow Alexa's lead and add a shiny waist belt. I love how this metal plate version feels really current! Metallic leather or something studded will work as well. The flannel-shirt variation also happens to be super versatile and allows for  a number of iterations: you can skip the jacket and add a faux fur vest (definitely think about slipping it under the belt; it's such a great look). Alternatively, you can achieve warmth and a similar cool-girl vibe with a cashmere wrap (also belted). If you're up for still more experimentation, you can play with proportion even more and top the ensemble with a wool overcoat. Choose a length that falls longer than your skirt, but 6-10 inches about the tops of your boots. Drape it over your shoulders or leave it open so the whole world can see just how much of a proportion genius you are. I hope this inspires you to try the mid-calf+skirt look soon (PS if you don't own mid-calf boots, this look can abso be done with knee-height footwear). Happy styling!