Monday 4 May 2015

Prints! Floral Cami, Pastel Blazer and Skinny Jeans | Polka Dot Shirt Dress and Converse

I was participating in two style challenges on instagram in April, so that gave me the chance to try some different outfit ideas I wouldn't have thought of on my own. After my wardrobe detox also, I'm feeling a lot more inspired to try different things. I'm not completely changing my style (it's all just clothes from my own wardrobe after all), but I'm wearing things differently or trying combinations I might have passed up before. I'm finding that not all of the outfits are winners, but they are only clothes! If I don't like the result in the mirror I can just put something else on...and if the outfits do pass the 'mirror test' in the morning but I end up disliking them after looking at the photos or wearing them all day, well I just know I won't repeat those combinations again :) So below are two outfits where I tried some different things. One I didn't really like, but one I did like, just would have preferred to have worn it on a different day.

What I wore:

blush pink Blazer Floral Ruffle cami spring pastels in autumn skinny jeans LV speedy B

Louis Vuitton Damier Ebene Speedy 30 Bandouliere bag handheld
JacketJeanswest Nadine 3/4 Sleeve dusky pink blazer
NecklaceTai gold alphabet necklace
CamiJeanswest 'Amber' floral print ruffle cami
JeansJeanswest Super Skinny Jeans in Mid Indigo
ShoesBalenciaga studded sandals in sorbet RGGH
BagLouis Vuitton Damier Ebene 30 speedy bandouliere (with Coach feather bag charm)

Why I wore it:

The style challenge for the day was 'girly' so I went overboard with the pink and added some florals too! I did stop to wonder if the pink sandals were going too far, but figured why not just give it a go. We went for a little walk by the sea. It's embarrassing how little we go to the beach considering how close we live to it! This is another one of those outfits where I like the pieces separately, but together they just don't work. The ruffles on the cami don't look nice with the lapels of the blazer, it's too much.

I did take my camera when we went out so that I could try switch things up a little background wise and take advantage of the great scenery with the sea, but with a dog and a baby in a stroller, that was a bit of a fail too.

Despite this not being a great outfit, it passed my mirror test that morning and I was really comfortable and happy in it all day! It was only after I looked at the photos on the computer I realised that it didn't really work. Colour-wise it's a wonderful idea, but these pieces are not the best way to implement it!


Last worn: blush pink boyfriend blazer, floral ruffle cami, Jeanswest skinny jeans, Balenciaga studded sandals, Louis Vuitton speedy bandouliere bag.

Other ways to wear: boyfriend blazer and denim shorts, floral cami with a pencil skirt, another skinny jeans, blazer and pastels look for spring, studded sandals with embellished maxi dress and studded bag, LV speedy bandouliere worn with skirts.







What I wore:

Away From Blue Queensland blogger Autumn shirt dress converse sports luxe

Away From the Blue personal style Rebecca Minkoff aquamarine mini MAC bag
DressAtmos&Here Polly navy polka dot shirt dress (new purchase)
ShoesConverse Chuck Taylor All Star low in white
BagRebecca Minkoff mini MAC with python embossed leather in aquamarine

Why I wore it:

This was another double style challenge day! It was 'mixed materials' for the posh lady indigo challenge, and 'sports luxe' for the fox pack style dare. I took the chance to get a little more dressed up than I usually would for a day of working from home and doing the daycare drop off/pick up. The cosy cashmere scarf wasn't needed in the middle of the day, but I was thankful for it in the cold morning.

I felt very overdressed for the day, but it did meet the challenge prompts, and is the kind of outfit I find so easy and comfortable to wear. I really liked it even if it seemed like a bit of a 'waste' as I worked from home all day!

I was happy to be able to wear my new shirt dress too! So glad I picked this up at the Iconic, I'd had it in my wishlist there for a while just waiting for a sale to justify it. It's really similar to my Zara printed tunic dress but that's one of the reasons why I like it. I figure the polka dots are different enough that I can justify having the two similar cut navy dresses in my wardrobe.


Last worn: Ray-Ban Wayfarerstartan scarf, white Converse, Rebecca Minkoff aqua mini MAC bag. First time I've worn the shirt dress as it is a recent purchase.

Other ways to wear: Burberry tartan scarf with a leather jacket, similar navy dress with a third trimester baby bump, Converse with denim shortsmini MAC with a maxi skirt.




Linking up with Styled Up, Shoe and Tell, Style to Inspire, Mix It Mondays, Manic Monday, Bless Your Heart, Turning Heads, Reasons to Dress, Style Sessions, Real Mom Style, Confident Twosday, The Wednesday Pants, Wardrobe Wednesday today.


Follow Away From the Blue on:
Bloglovin : Facebook : Twitter : Google Plus : Instagram
 : LikeToKnow.It : Youtube 

68 comments:

  1. The 'girly' outfit is super! I think the jeans sort of toned down the girly factor a notch and being slightly masculine as I am, I love it! The second look is cool too especially when a pair of Chuck is added. That scarf must be so comfortable and soft. This reminds me that days must be cooler now on your side of the world

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thanks! It is getting a little cooler now, we are in Autumn here :)

      Delete
  2. Love how you styled the dotted dress with the more wintery plaid scarf. The first outfit is so chic also. Lovely blazer and floral top. =)

    ReplyDelete
  3. I love the pattern mixing, one of my favourite looks of yours. I have a similar tartan scarf which I've been wearing a lot lately but it's in grey. How exciting that your sister and I have the same Dotti dress. I love the mint version but didn't consider getting it since I already have a mint green lace dress. Also want to get the orange version.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Oh the orange version is cute! I think you picked well with the black one too, it's a nice go-with anything colour! :)

      Delete
  4. I love fashion challenges. They really do push you and your styling limits. I actually really adore the second look! Jeans definitely toned down the first look (the sandals were a good pick I think!) and I love how you wore Connies with your polka dot dress :) It's a clash of colours but I think you happen to own it :)

    Elleosophy

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thanks Ellen! I am having a bit more fun with challenges this time around and just enjoying the guidance for what to wear and not worrying so much about the rules ;)

      Delete
  5. Isn't it funny how the camera tells a different story than a mirror? I still can't really wrap my head around WHY...but it's true in my experience! At first glance I didn't see any reason why you didn't like look #1 but I can see what you mean about the ruffles against the lapels. Hardly a fashion crime, though! Just one of those little adjustments we make the next time!
    Gina - On the Daily Express

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. haha yes the mirror lies so often! I find the camera can lie too, but I've gotten better at finding just the right pose to try hide that....ha! ;)

      Delete
  6. The blue bag matches so well with the outfit in the 2nd look! You look so young btw!

    ReplyDelete
  7. Cute looks!!

    www.tusksandtails.com

    ReplyDelete
  8. You always look adorable!!!! The 2nd one is my fave too but you rock anything girl!! Hope you have a great week ahead!!! xo

    livingoncloudandreanine.blogspot.com

    ReplyDelete
  9. Your outfit are always so cute ;) and now I understand your passion for bags! All are sooo beautiful !!!

    www.aishettina.blogspot.it

    ReplyDelete
  10. Love the top in your first look!
    www.amemoryofus.com

    ReplyDelete
  11. Lovely outfit, it's super cute especially your top :)

    STYLE VANITY

    ReplyDelete
  12. Both of these outfits are great! The first look is super cute! But I do see what you mean about the lapels, maybe if you wore it with a pink cardigan so it wasn't as hard of an edge.
    http://www.closet-fashionista.com/

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thanks! I think you're right, a cardigan or some other jacket would have been better :)

      Delete
  13. I just love scarves added to outfits so I am really loving the second look x

    Florals&Smiles
    Twitter

    ReplyDelete
  14. Love the second look !
    xoxo,

    http://atwednesdaysiwearpink.blogspot.pt/

    ReplyDelete
  15. Super cute look! I love the pretty pink camisole. Pretty!!


    Amber
    All the Cute
    Today’s Post: Casual Inspiration No. III: Grey Ribbed Midi Dress

    ReplyDelete
  16. Hi girly! what an amazing idea to participate in those Instagram challenges! I'm thinking about doing it too.. just to bring new ideas and clothing combinations to my mind! love both outfits, specially the polka dotted navy blue dress and that beautiful clutch! you are such a beauty :)
    XOXO

    Milu
    www.hellolupi.com

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I think it's a great idea to have a play and try a few challenges - you'll enjoy it I'm sure! :)

      Delete
  17. Great classic bag! Such an investment as the price goes up every year.

    http://www.racheldinh.com

    ReplyDelete
  18. I like both looks and like you, its soooo sad that I never go to the beach… and I can actually see the ocean from my bedroom and bathroom window !

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Oh wow I would love to live that close! Jealous! :) It's often hard to schedule in a relaxing beach day though, so much to get done!

      Delete
  19. The first outfit is so harmonious! Love this tender colors! And the second is really original and bright! Awesome dress and perfect hairstyle!

    ReplyDelete
  20. So my thoughts on the first outfit... I love the tank on it's own, but the bunching of the blazer breaks up that pretty flowy effect. Maybe something more structured on top? Or perhaps a nice light brown, tan, or creme cardigan? (haha there I go throwing my cardigan theory into the mix). Cardigan for casual comfy day and something with structure for a work day or casual business meeting.

    I really like how you added the tartan scarf against the polka dot shirt dress. I'm a huge fan of pattern mixing and it just worked so nicely! Plus, again, not a combo I would have come up with on my own, but it works! Your are slowly but surely showing me a mint/ light blue bag goes with pretty much everything.

    Don't feel bad about not going to the beach more, honestly I'm sure most people who live by the beach don't go as often as one would think.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I know you love your cardigans, haha! I should wear mine more often! :) I think definitely needs something other than that blazer.
      I am obsessed with that aqua bag so I kinda make it go with everything, haha!

      Delete
  21. the polkadot dress :)
    kisses from dubai ♥
    www.mahryska.com

    ReplyDelete
  22. Both looks are so harmonic! I don't think you've gone to far with those pink sandals! Perfect accessoires for this outfit! Love how you mixed the different patterns on your second outfit, Mica! Well done, dear! Really fresh look!

    JOURNAL OF STYLE / BLOGLOVIN

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thank you! I think they looked okay in the end, although I was worried initially! It's just the top and blazer combination I don't like!

      Delete
  23. Your outfit with the polka dot dress and converse, let's just say, its perfection to the T. Love everything about this ensemble.

    ReplyDelete
  24. Your dusky pink jacket is lovely on you and your polka dot dress is such fun. I love the turquoise bag.

    ReplyDelete
  25. Ohmygosh that second outfit is a stunner!! I really love both looks but the print mixing in the second is executed flawlessly! I really need a shirtdress like that in my life!

    xo Deborah
    Coffee, Prose, and Pretty Clothes

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. It is an amazing shirtdress! I recommend it! :D

      Delete
  26. love the effortless casual vibe of that second look!! :D

    Have a great week!
    Animated Confessions

    ReplyDelete
  27. love your everyday style! looking so fresh and smiley!
    Irene
    www.thedailylace.com

    ReplyDelete
  28. I like the dotted dress with those Burberry scarf and sneakers better. Its more casual and relaxed. The ruffle top is still lovely.

    ~xo Sheree
    http://poshclassymom.com
    IG: @poshclassymom

    ReplyDelete
  29. Print mixing! I love it! I will have to try!

    ReplyDelete
  30. I seriously LOVE the first one just as it is! So girly which was perfect for the challenge. That blazer looks so pretty on you!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thanks! I'm still getting used to the blazer! I really like it with skinny jeans though :)

      Delete
  31. Very cute outfit and of course, I am dying over your speedy =) Hope you enjoy the rest of your week!

    ReplyDelete
  32. love the outfits :) Really cool!

    http://lovelyattitude.com

    ReplyDelete
  33. I really love both looks, you know I am a fan of femininity and love the frilly top and cardi with the first look. Fab bag of course!

    Thanks for linking up with Turning Heads Tuesday!
    jess xx
    www.elegantlydressedandstylish.com

    ReplyDelete
  34. Beautiful, as always! I am in love with your top in the first set of photos!

    Connie | Sponsored by Coffee | Bloglovin’

    ReplyDelete
  35. I think you nailed the girly challenge with that first look...the floral blouse and the pink blazer are very romantic and pretty...the jeans prevent the look from being too serious so it is still more girly than let's say lady like.

    The second outfit is so perfect...I love that polka dot dress!!!!

    http://modaodaradosti.blogspot.com/

    ReplyDelete
  36. Maybe I am not detail oriented enough, but I love both of the outfits. I really like the colors of the top and blazer together in the first outfit and your second outfit is so adorable!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thank you! It just seemed to bother me, but everyone has different thoughts, that's the fun thing with clothes! :) I'm pleased you liked it! :)

      Delete
  37. Hello Mica! Hope all is going great for you! I love the fact that you are willing to try things out without worrying about whether the may work or not. If we don't try it, how are we going to ever find out? Right? Great attitude and post. You look beautiful in both looks but my vote goes to the polka dots shirt dress with the converse. Love the mix of patterns and the relaxed vibe you radiate. Love it! Thanks for sharing and have a wonderful rest of the week! XOXO, Jeannette

    www.msjeannieandhercloset.com

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. very true Jeannette! :) No harm in trying something at least once, clothes are so easy to change up if we don't like the result! :)

      Delete
  38. Adorable as always! I have always wanted a Burberry scarf. You look amazing in yours! T. http://tickledpinkwoman.blogspot.com

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. It was a gift from a very generous friend! I'm so lucky! I nearly cried when I got it! haha!

      Delete
  39. That floral top is super awesome! I love it on you! Gorgeous print. Love the ruffles and fluidity of it. Nice pairing with the blazer and jeans. Polka dots are always cute. Two great outfits Mica.
    http://www.averysweetblog.com/

    ReplyDelete
  40. Looking so pretty,as always!

    God bless,
    XO, Claire
    Http://www.littlemissfashionqueen.blogspot.com

    ReplyDelete
  41. I love both looks, so pretty.
    Xoxo
    Christy

    http://www.am2pmchic.com

    ReplyDelete
  42. I love your first outfit and I am also totally inspired to shop my closet this season. Sometimes all you need is the right motivation to reinvent what you already own.

    Angie from reasons to dress, fashion, travel and life as a mom in Italy.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. That's why I like the style challenges - lots of reasons to shop in my own wardrobe and try new things I wouldn't have thought of before! :)

      Delete
  43. WOW Mica!! I love both outfits, and the first is just so gorgeous with the pink and frills. (I think I tend towards girly naturally!) I TOTALLY think it worked - no problems with the lapels!!!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thanks Sam! It's got a pretty mixed response - I'm glad some people (like yourself) think it looked better than I did, makes me feel not so silly for thinking it was okay in the mirror haha!

      Delete
  44. Your hair is looking so fabulous, and I have total bag envy every single time!

    I get what you mean about the ruffles, but I think it looks better than you think it did.

    My heart is with the second outfit though. I love polka dots, I adore Burberry and I love a print clash!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thanks Kim! The second outfit was my favourite too :)

      Delete
  45. Thank you all for your lovely comments and suggestions on the first outfit I was so unsure about! :)

    ReplyDelete
  46. You look SO chic in this outfit! I would have never thought of the plaid + polka dot combo, but I love it. This ensemble is classy and looks comfortable. I think it was a great way to make a dress casual for a day of running around!

    ♥ perfectly Priya

    ReplyDelete

Your feedback on my outfits and any constructive criticism is welcomed. I appreciate the time you take to leave a kind comment. Make sure to tick 'Notify me' if you've asked a question so you get an email response :)

Feel free to leave a link to your blog so I can check it out. "Follow me" or "follow for follow" comment spam will not be published.

Related Posts Plugin for WordPress, Blogger...