Inspiration Board: Brie - Pop Goes The Color

Brie describes this look as her "sophisticated side" and it clear why: there's always something chic about a pop of color set against neutrals. That goes double when that pop of color comes from a silk scarf ;). Note how Brie balances the levels of formality with her looks - a formal piece offsets one that is less so. Here, for example, she uses a simple tee to set off more formal wide-leg trousers. Compare that to her previous Inspiration Board look ("Easy Chic") where she paired a more formal blouse with denim. Imagine how much more refined and less carefree this look would be had she used the button-down here, instead of this tee. It's small choices like that which truly allow everyone's individual sense of style to shine, and Brie gravitates toward a more modern, at-ease vibe, even with her sophisticated looks..which is probably one of the reasons her style translates so well to so many situations and makes her one of my fashion favorites ;). Un-digressing back to this outfit: her basic formula is a slim tee with a dress pant. Alternatively, you could switch up and use her blouse with denim look as a basic canvas. All neutrals, pretty please, for this look, and leave the yoga pants in the drawer :). If you don't want to go as formal as suiting pants, chinos will work. You could even get cray trendy and do culottes ;). With this basic background in place, your imagination and creativity get to take flight. Grab a silk scarf - whatever colors or print float your boat at the moment and knot it around your neck. You can use an oblong/rectangle shape like Brie, or a large square.  And, if knotting isn't your thing, wrap it around your neck once and let the two ends dangle, or just drape it around your neck in a "U" shape (this last style will work best with an oblong scarf). Next, add a pair of shoes that complements one of the scarf colors. They don't have to match precisely, but they should be in the same family. For example, if the scarf has a bright daisy yellow shade, you can use a soft yellow shoe. If the scarf has a lot of sky blue, you can use a cobalt shoe. I advocate the use of a bun or up-do, as it will highlight the scarf and keep the overall look more refined and not busy. I also love the idea of pulling out a few more scarf colors via a statement ring or a couple of bright bangles. Echoing pops of color via accessories from a print that collects all of them always looks - in Brie's words- sophisticated! I hope this inspires you to give it a try some time soon :) Happy fashioning, lovelies!