Inspiration Board: Alicia - Blues Away

Sometime you can be in blue and it makes you not at all blue :). Alicia's blue cropped sweater definitely got me thinking that way. It's such an easy look, but still fierce in a relaxed way. I'm loving the softness of the pastel blue shades - and blue is looking like an "it" color for the spring, so it's a hue you're going to want to try :)...especially because bright, clean blues fall into that category of colors that look amazing on every skin tone. As with other cropped styles, I'd think about popping a longer piece under the sweater for cold-weather days. My first choice would be a crisp white button-down (probably with a thermal placed invisibly underneath ;)), but you could also do just the thermal. Pieces with lace, velvet or other interesting edging are always pretty when peeking out from beneath a similar neckline. Foxy went with leather-paneled leggings, but you can easily keep that street-cool feel with a zipper-accented pair, moto-styled chinos or even a pair of black skinny jeans. The two keys to this look are footwear and accessories. Foxy's black OTK's really add jazz to this styling, giving it casual mod flair. I'd stay with flat OTK's to keep the laidback vibe (either suede or leather works, and since you're matching it with blue, don't rule out your brown boots! They'd look casually fab too, and would add an earthen warmth to the styling). You could also make a fun switch and go with mid-calf boots here. Since it's a more chilled-out boot silhouette, I'd choose something with a heel to elevate the overall effect. Lastly, pick accessories that, like Alicia's, add some quirk and pizazz - studded bracelets (I like to wrap a skinny studded belt around my wrist), snake or skull jewelry, a fun animal pendant. Two or three layered pieces bring a hint of flash but, more importantly, let your personality shine. What better way to brighten a dull winter day? :) Shine on, loves!