Inspiration Board: Barbie - Summer Velvet

Soooo, since I was kind of so-so about this particular application of velvet for warm weather, I guess it begs the question: how would you do it, Brie? Well, for starters, I'd happily borrow Barbie's sugary combo of pale pink (or at least golden nude ;)) and light wash denim! Lately, fashion has been appropriating traditionally winter fabrics, material by material, and reinterpreting them for the warmer months. It started a couple years back with leather, then suede and, as of this year, velvet. Most  winter fabrics are weighty types, intended to provide warmth. The newer iterations generally have less heft and more drape, but they still carry a presence that can be challenging for high temps and sultry days. The trick is not to go overboard with them. To that end, do your velvet in shots, not kegs: a velvet tee or cami tops denim nicely. I've re-envisioned Barbie's pairing with slightly darker denim for a slightly more tart composition and added a grounding neutral.  Bone peep-toe booties fill this role with the cami, black pointy-toe flats with the tee. I also love the idea of a black cross-body bag to reiterate the splash of black in a carefree (and practical! :) ) way. If a top is still too much velvet for your taste, consider the femme drama of velvet sandals! Because the hint of color is subtler here than when it's a larger piece of your look, super-pale denim is totally acceptable. Go for an on-trend crisp white shirt above. I love the coquettishness of a seen-everywhere off-the-shoulder blouse (ruffles, eyelet, lace and other ladylike embellishments = totally acceptable, even encouraged :)). If you haven't embraced said trend yet (or never will :)), try an iconic button-down in oxford or broadcloth. It will give you a crisper, more pointed vibe than the blouse. Since velvet, with its luxurious feel and sheen-y finish, is still a formal fabric, keep the baubletry to a minimum for this casual styling - a slim lariat or narrow choker is the most you need.