Inspiration Board: Lana - Shorts Sighted!

One tricky aspect of wearing the super-casual throw-and-go looks that tend to define a significant portion of summer dressing is that they need a pinch of je ne se quoi, elan, an exclamation point, something that anchors the look firmly in the "style" category, rather than the "something I just threw on" file. The lack thereof was what my praise got hung up on with this warm-weather look from Lana, so I've re-imagined a trio of iterations of this straightforward combo with a pinch more intentional panache. The canvas for the look is pretty clear: tee+shorts. So, basically, it's a check your drawers/closet/armoire kind of thing. Go with a cropped tee if you're feeling it, a boxy version with a feminine detail - like this flutter-sleeved piece - or a simple, curve-kissing knit. Cut-off denim, a la Lana, works on the bottom, but you can also make a more polished statement via chinos or a specifically summery fabric (think seersucker, linen, gingham). Non-shorts-friendly environment? No problem! Full-length denim or chinos lend themselves to these looks quite nicely. Classic color stories like all black or all white are perpetually fab, but also consider au courant shades of blush (the newest neutral! ;)), nude and olive in your mix. Once you have your canvas chosen, it's all about the spark. With such a simple background, you can be a little extra daring! Do you love the toughness of camo or wild-at-heart leopard but shy away from wearing it ordinarily? Go for it here, via a belt or bag (or even sneakers ;)). Always wanted to try pairing red and pink? Add a touch to blush - the risky color combo will be tempered by earth-toned or denim shorts. Other edgy color choices include lemon, canteloupe, and kelly. Try some 80's-tinged candy-hued combos with bright turquoise or lavender. Alternatively, toughen the girly pink up with some studs. Black monochrome lends itself to just about anything (camo = yep, leopard = yep, red=yep, studs=yep). Then again, how about getting some mileage out of one of the myriad of scarves you've collected over the years and only occasionally manage to wear? Knot it at your waist (or do a big, bold couture-esque bow :)). Alternatively, I love the idea of tying it at your neck, but turning the knot to the back. You get the look of a choker in front, but floaty streamers trailing behind you (the effect is particularly dramatic with lengthy oblong scarves or oversize squares). Complete the laidback vibe of the look with coordinating sneakers. (Classic or casual flats - think espadrilles or ballets - are also 100% acceptable).  Happy styling, loves!