Five Ways to Wear It – Tie-Dye

Five Ways to Wear It – Tie-Dye

Hi Pretties! I’m back with an all-new Ways to Wear It and I’m featuring a trend that I’ll admit I resisted at first. That’s because it’s one I’ve done before, a LONG time ago. But now, I’ve crossed over and have fallen back in love with tie-dye. It’s fun, it’s colorful and it can be as bold or as subtle as you want. It can also be found in so many different items and accessories but for this Ways to Wear It I’m styling it as a top and I’m featuring two different tie-dye patterns since I couldn’t pick just one. If you’re not sure about tie-dye, it’s okay. Don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone and give it a try. Just think of it as another example of a pattern. There are stripes, leopard print, snake print, and now tie-dye!

Option #1

Overalls + Tie-Dye Top + White Sneakers

For the first look, I’m featuring two major trends of the spring, tie-dye AND overalls! These are both trends that I have worn many, many years ago and I’m finding it both fun and nostalgic to be wearing them again. I forgot how comfy overalls are! There are only a few sizes left in the tie-dye shirt I’m wearing from Old Navy but here is a similar one. I finished off the look with my new white sneakers that have a fun metallic accent on the side and some leopard in the back.

Option #2

Tie-Dye Top + Olive Bottoms + White Sneakers

Outfit number two features the second tie-dye top in my closet which is a simple mix of pink and white. This tie-dye sweatshirt is perfect for those cooler spring days. I paired it with my olive jeans, which don’t forget, count as a neutral, and finished off again with my new white sneakers. This is a great casual outfit that feels both comfortable and put together.

Option #3

Utility Jacket + Tie-Dye Top + White Bottoms + White Sneakers

Outfit number three I’m back to my blue and white tie-dye tee but this time I paired it up with my white jeans and topped it off with my olive utility jacket. This utility jacket has been a staple in my closet for years and I love the way the oversized collar has a sort of flow to it. I rolled up the sleeves a few times for some added interest and finished off this look with my comfy, go-to white sneakers. There are only a few sizes left in the tie-dye shirt I’m wearing from Old Navy but here is a similar one.

Option #4

Tie-Dye Top + Light Wash Jeans + Neutral Sandals

Now on to look number four! I’m keeping this look ultra simple. I’m sticking with my blue and white tie-dye tee and matched it up with a pair of high-waisted, medium wash jeans with a little bit of fraying around the bottoms. I decided to show off my pink pedi for this look by adding in my brown sandals which are one of the souvenirs I brought back from Greece a few years ago. I found a similar pair from DSW. Also, there are only a few sizes left in the tie-dye shirt I’m wearing from Old Navy but here is a similar one.

Option #5

Utility Jacket + Tie-Dye Top + Medium wash Jeans + White Sneakers

Last but certainly not least, look number five! I’m back to my cozy pink and white tie-dye sweatshirt paired with my high-waisted, medium wash jeans and added in my olive utility jacket. Then I kept the cozy train going and finished off with my white sneakers. Dressing in any sort of layers is perfect for spring and its sometimes unpredictable weather. It’s not uncommon to feel like I’m going through all four seasons in the same day. Cold in the morning, hot by lunch, and cool by the evening.

There you have it! My five ways to wear tie-dye! Which one was your favorite? Comment below!

Check out my Five Ways to Wear It Video below!

Alison’s Spring Dress Roundup

Alison’s Spring Dress Roundup

You may have heard me say this in the past, but I am not really a dress person. I will get dressed up and I will wear a dress depending on the occasion but typically they are not my go-to. Spring however seems to be the one time of year that I do find myself feeling drawn to all the beautiful dresses with their vibrant colors and patterns and flattering silhouettes. It doesn’t matter if they are a relaxed cotton dress or a more defined wrap dress, having a great dress that you love is the perfect addition to your spring/summer wardrobe. Floral dresses are still having their moment but white dresses are really on-trend this spring as well as bright bold solids. Another trend I’m seeing are halter dresses, both short and long versions. Plus most dresses can be dressed down with a denim jacket and some cute sandals or dressed up with some statement earrings and heels. Below are some of the spring dresses that have caught my eye.

Fun Florals

1. J.Crew Factory Printed V-neck Ruffle Midi Dress

2. Target Floral Print Flutter Sleeveless Dress – Universal Thread™

3. Old Navy Sleeveless High-Neck Maxi Swing Dress for Women

4. Loft Floral Side Tie Henley Swing Dress

5. Old Navy Waist-Defined Ruffled Tie-Belt Midi Wrap Dress

Hued Halters

1. Express Printed Smocked Waist Halter Neck Midi Dress

2. Kohl’s Chaps Printed Halter Neck Dress

3. Banana Republic Halter Midi Dress

4. Amazon Pretty Garden Halter Maxi Dress With Belt

5. Tommy Hilfiger Sleeveless Diana Floral Chiffon Belted Halter Midi Dress

Bright Solids

1. J.Crew Factory Ruffleneck Sheath Dress

2. Ann Taylor Factory Halter Midi Shirtdress

3. Talbots Slub Knit Eyelet Detail Dress

4. Amazon Merokeety Lace Dress

5. Loft Knotted Tie Dress

Pretty Prints

1. Target Printed Sleeveless Dress – Who What Wear

2. J.Crew Factory Basketweave Leopard Sheath Dress

3. Target Tie-Dye Long Sleeve Tiered Dress – Universal Thread™

4. Target Striped High Cuff Shirtdress – A New Day™

5. Gap Fit & Flare Squareneck Midi Dress

Whimsical White

1. Loft Striped Smocked Puff Sleeve Midi Dress

2. Bobeau Rowan Sleeveless Faux Wrap Dress

3. Tommy Hilfiger Eyelet Belted Shirtdress

4. H&M Airy Cotton Dress

5. Amazon Midi Dress With Drawstring Waist

Your turn! What dress is your favorite?

Style Your Budget – Outfit Formulas® Spring 2021 Capsule Wardrobe

Style Your Budget – Outfit Formulas® Spring 2021 Capsule Wardrobe

Hey Pretties! Welcome to this month’s Style Your Budget which features one of the outfits from the Outfit Formulas® Spring 2021 Capsule Wardrobe. As much as I love wearing my jeans, I’m always looking for a fun alternative and this spring I discovered chinos. I will be the first to admit that I wasn’t sure about them, however after trying them, I loved all the options they opened up. They can be dressed up or easily dressed down. Below I styled them with some of my favorite closet staples including my striped top and denim jacket. I couldn’t decide how to finish them off so I’m showing both options, white sneakers or metallic shoes.

If you’re new to Style Your Budget, it’s where I offer style inspiration for a fun seasonal look. The looks often feature a trend or two and I pair it with some classic closet staples. Most items you may already have in your closet but in case you don’t, I offer different price points to help you fill in the gaps. I truly believe every woman, no matter their size, age, ethnicity, or budget, deserves to feel pretty and confident. Now let’s check out this month’s Style Your Budget formula.

Denim Jacket + Striped Top + Chinos + White Sneakers or Metallic Shoes

Now Let’s style your budget!

Option 1

DENIM JACKET $19.96 / STRIPED TOP $8.48 / CHINOS $11.99 / METALLIC SHOES $14.98 / BLACK HANDBAG $19.97 / HOOP EARRINGS $10.99 / SCARF $8.98

TOTAL $95.35

Option 2

DENIM JACKET $39.99 / STRIPED TOP $4.99 / CHINOS $14.99 / WHITE SNEAKERS $24.99 / BLACK HANDBAG $24.99 / HOOP EARRINGS $5.99 / SCARF $12.99

TOTAL $128.93

Option 3

DENIM JACKET $29.99 / STRIPED TOP $8.00 / CHINOS $27.99 / METALLIC SHOES $24.99 / BLACK HANDBAG $39.99 / HOOP EARRINGS $7.99 / SCARF $7.00

TOTAL $145.95

Option 4

DENIM JACKET $39.99 / STRIPED TOP $12.49 / CHINOS $23.99 / WHITE SNEAKERS $39.99 / BLACK HANDBAG $39.99 / HOOP EARRINGS $5.99 / SCARF $22.49

TOTAL $184.93

Option 5

DENIM JACKET $31.57 / STRIPED TOP $20.60 / CHINOS $39.99 / WHITE SNEAKERS $28.74 / BLACK HANDBAG $54.99 / HOOP EARRINGS $18.00 / SCARF $10.99

TOTAL $204.88

Option 6

DENIM JACKET $79.00 / STRIPED TOP $25.00 / CHINOS $49.00 / METALLIC SHOES $39.00 / BLACK HANDBAG $58.00 / HOOP EARRINGS $18.00 / SCARF $12.50

TOTAL $282.48

Your turn! What look is your favorite?

Like what you see? When you sign up for Outfit Formulas® Spring 2021 Capsule Wardrobe, you’ll receive a shopping list of on-trend spring essentials, including accessories. Get 31 days of casual outfit ideas PLUS “dress it up” and “dress it down” options to adjust each outfit for every spring event on your calendar!

Five Days of Spring Outfit Formulas®

Five Days of Spring Outfit Formulas®

Raise your hand if you’re ready for spring and looking forward to getting dressed again! While I have enjoyed the moment athleisure wear has been having, I feel like spring is providing us with a fresh start. And with that, increasing opportunities to want to get dressed in the morning. I’m excited to enter into the warmer months and pack away my fall and winter wear. I’m even more excited about the launch of Outfit Formulas® Spring 2021 Capsule Wardrobe! As always this capsule is a great mix of closet staples with some fun spring trends thrown in and yes, there are even some trends that have me stepping outside of my comfort zone.

Just like seasons past, I wanted to share five spring outfit formulas® to help you ease back into spring. Check out the formulas below and see how I styled them. And for a complete list of items, outfit formulas®, and links, download my free guide, 5 Outfit Formulas® That You Need This Spring! Remember, outfit formulas® are designed to help give you a guide so you can dress for your lifestyle, your body, your climate, and do what fits your personality. It’s all about feeling great in what you’re wearing and then letting your confidence shine! How will you use the formulas to style your perfect spring looks? Share your pictures with us over on the Facebook Pretties page!

Outfit Formula #1

COLOR CARDIGAN + WHITE TOP+ LIGHT WASH JEANS + TAUPE SHOES

A pink cardigan paired with a white tee and some light wash jeans finished off with some taupe shoes.

Alison is wearing a pink cardigan paired with a white tee and some light wash jeans finished off with some taupe heels.

For the first outfit formula I wearing everything from my closet however the cardigan from H&M is new. Unfortunately, it’s showing as sold out online but you may be able to find it in-store. Here’s a similar pink cardigan. This outfit is a perfect example of if you have a solid foundation, adding one simple piece can change the whole look.

Outfit formula #2

TRENCH COAT + PRINTED BLOUSE + WHITE BOTTOMS + TAUPE SHOES

A light trench coat is styled with a navy printed top and white jeans, finished off with some taupe shoes.

Alison is wearing a navy printed top with some white jeans and taupe heels.

If you’ve been following me then you know that white jeans are a year-round staple in my closet however I’m excited to pair them up with some lighter pieces of clothes like this awesome floral top from J.Crew Factory. Again, I’m using my closet staples foundation of white bottoms, my taupe shoes and then something fun and new creating a great spring look. Layers are crucial for spring’s unpredictable weather so I’m going to finish off this look with a classic trench which is not only a great closet staple but also a great investment piece. My white jeans are from J.Crew Factory, however, there are only a few sizes left. Here is a similar pair from Old Navy.

Outfit formula #3

DENIM JACKET + STRIPED TOP + OLIVE BOTTOMS + WHITE SNEAKERS OR METALLIC SHOES

A denim jacket is styled with a striped short sleeve top and some olive pants and finished off with white sneakers or metallic sandals.

A woman is wearing a denim jacket, styled with a striped short sleeve top and some olive pants and finished off with white sneakers.

I’m a sucker for stripes so I paired them up with some olive jeans, my favorite denim jacket, and added some new white kicks with some fun metallic embellishments on them for spring. The best part is as the day warms up I can easily remove my jacket and still feel like a I have complete look on.

outfit Formula #4

NEUTRAL CARDIGAN + NEUTRAL PRINTED TOP + DARK WASH JEANS + WHITE SNEAKERS OR METALLIC SHOES

A brown sweater is styled over a leopard printed top and medium wash jeans with white sneakers or metallic sandals.

Alison is wearing a brown cardigan styled over a leopard printed top and medium wash jeans with white sneakers.

I have to say this look does combine a few new pieces I bought for the spring, but I’ll be able to carry them through to summer, and let’s be honest, they are pretty classic so I’m sure I’ll be wearing them for a while. While leopard is a classic in my book it’s still having its moment. That’s why so I got this light and airy leopard print top from J.Crew Factory. I then paired it with this cardigan from H&M. It’s the same style as the pink one from above. I finished it off with my metallic embellished white sneakers.

Outfit Formula #5

DENIM JACKET + SOLID TOP + CHINOS + SNAKE PRINT SHOES

A denim jacket is paired with a light pink tee and khaki pants with snake print sneakers or flats.

Alison is wearing a denim jacket paired with a light pink tee and khaki pants with snake print slip ons.

I know what you’re thinking, chinos, really? I was the same way but once I found this pair from J.Crew Factory and they turned out to be a ‘heck yes,’ I realized all the different outfit possibilities it opened up. Plus it’s a great alternative to denim. For this formula, I paired up a few closet staples like snake print slip-ons and my denim jacket then added in a simple solid tee. Finally, I had a little fun sprinkling in some accessories to finish off the look.

Your turn! What Outfit Formula is your favorite for spring?

Like what you see? When you sign up for Outfit Formulas® Spring 2021 Capsule Wardrobe, you’ll receive a shopping list of on-trend spring essentials, including accessories. Get 31 days of casual outfit ideas PLUS “dress it up” and “dress it down” options to adjust each outfit for every spring event on your calendar!

Two outfits are collaged with accessories for spring.

Ten Easy Spring Accessory Trends to amp up your wardrobe

Ten Easy Spring Accessory Trends to amp up your wardrobe

Spring is the perfect time to go through your closet, dust off your sandals, and await the warmer weather. To say it’s been a crazy and unusual winter in Texas is an understatement. It’s pretty safe to say I’m looking forward to spring more this year than I ever have. While I’m a sucker for a timeless outfit formula, one of the easiest ways to change it up is with accessories.

While digging through what accessory trends we’ll be seeing this spring, I’m seeing some repeats from last spring as well as some old favorites from a few years ago. (This just once again proves that if you really love an article of clothing or accessory don’t get rid of it! It will have its moment again!) You’ll also notice a lot of the trends overlap each other making it really fun to mix and match. Below are some of the fun accessory trends I’m seeing this spring.

1. Long Pendants

The long pendants of fall are coming back around for the summer! They are the perfect light alternative to the scarf. Not to mention, they add a ton of visual interest to any top.

A long pendant necklace.

Hanging Leaves and Channels Long Necklace – A New Day™ Gold

A long colorful pendant necklace is part of Easy Spring Accessory Trends.

Old Navy Marbled Oval-Pendant Chain Necklace

A long gold pendant necklace with a light aqua stone.

Madewell Amazonite Pendant Necklace

2. Statement Earrings

When you wear a pair of fun statement earrings you really don’t need to wear anything else which makes this a great accessory for the spring and summer. Another example of keeping it simple yet having a big impact!

Black, white and gold statement earrings.

Organic Shape Stone with Semi-Precious Bead Drop Earrings – Universal Thread™

Mother of pearl statement earrings.

Kendra Scott Elle Filigree Drop Earring

Long gold leaf earrings.

Anthropology Eucalyptus Drop Earrings

3. Pearls

Pearls are still going strong whether in earring, necklace, or bracelet form. They even look great as a headband which you’ll see later on. I love seeing all the modern takes on this traditional item. Plus I’m seeing them in so many fantastic mixed mediums. Also, there’s no need to save your pearls for a special occasion, these pearls are ready for your everyday wear.

Silver earrings with pearls are Easy Spring Accessory Trend.

Sterling Forever Genuine Pearl Hammered Drop Earrings

A multi strand pearl necklace with a gingham bow tied on the back.

Pearl and Gingham Ribbon Statement Necklace J.Crew Factory

A gold bracelet with pearl accents.

Anne Klein Pearl Link Bracelet

4. Straw Bags

Straw bags made a huge splash a few years ago and now they are back and cuter than ever! I’m loving all the different styles and what screams ‘I’m ready for sunshine’ more than a fun straw tote!

Straw totes are super Easy Spring Accessory Trends.

Crown Vintage Straw Tote

An orange straw crossbody bag.

Straw Flap Magnetic Closure Crossbody Bag – Universal Thread™

A brown and white straw tote.

Straw Circle Handle Tote Handbag – A New Day™ Natural

5. Colorful Beaded Jewelry

This is not the beaded necklaces I used to make when I was little. The colorful beaded necklaces and bracelets are all grown up and the sophisticated color combinations are gorgeous! Yet another easy way to elevate any solid color top and add fun pops of color!

A colorful beaded necklace.

Loft Colorful Modern Y Necklace

A set of three beaded bracelets, pink, navy and coral is Easy Spring Accessory Trend.

Talbots Stretch Beaded Bracelet Set

Multi-colored beaded hoop earrings.

Nordstrom Beaded Hoop Earrings

6. Charms

This is another trend that’s incorporating itself into multiple accessories. From charmed statement earrings, necklace, and of course the original, charm bracelet. It’s another great way to let your different likes and interests shine through!

Gold earrings with four different colored gem stone charms hanging off.

Loft Charm Hoop Earrings

A gold charm bracelet with a starfish, heart, mood, horseshoe and four leaf clover.

J.Crew Factory Good Luck Charm Bracelet

Gold charm necklaces are just part of some Easy Spring Accessory Trends.

Loft Charmed Layered Necklace

7. Thick Chains

Thick chains are back again for the spring and the hardest part will be deciding what style you want. I’ve seen them in everything from simple two link earrings to heavier hammered metal chains to light and colorful resin chain necklaces. Not to mention the layering styles which offers a little bit of everything.

A stack of four gold bracelets is an Easy Spring Accessory Trend.

Alison + Aubrey Gold Essentials Four Piece Bracelet Set

Chain link necklaces in amber, white and green.

Anthropology Joan Resin Link Necklace

Gold paperclip earrings are an Easy Spring Accessory Trend.

Target Link Earrings – A New Day™

8. Textured/Hammered Jewelry

Textured or hammered jewelry can be seen at most retailers and it’s combining a lot of the different accessory trends. For example, the above hammered silver was mixed with pearls and here it’s in the form of a long pendant necklace. It offers a little extra on what could be considered a pretty simple accessory. I especially like the pieces that incorporate the mixed metals.

A Hammered silver pendant necklace is an Easy Spring Accessory Trend.

Semi Circle Tiered Pendant Necklace – Universal Thread™ Silver

Hammered silver and gold earrings.

Worn Multi Plated Hammered Rectangle Statement Earrings – A New Day™

A hammered silver cuff bracelet is Easy Spring Accessory Trend.

Hammered Metal Cuff Bracelet – A New Day™

9. Headbands and Scarves

I can’t think of a better way to keep my hair out of my face during the spring months and still feel put together. Wear the headband or scarf alone or pair it up with a top knot or even add the scarf to a pony tail. There are so many color and style combinations you’re sure to find one that you like!

A leopard headband is an Easy Spring Accessory Trend.

J.Crew Factory Leopard Knot Headband

A pink floral printed scarf is Easy Spring Accessory Trend.

Loft Outlet Floral Mini Silk Scarf

A chambray knotted headband.

Old Navy Textile Twist-Front Headband

10. Colorful Everything

Accessories are all about the pops of color! From shoes to handbags, necklaces, and scarves, everything’s got a fresh dose of color! I’m seeing candy-colored handbags, bright shoes, and colorful jewelry. One can’t help but smile!

A colorful cuff bracelet  - easy spring accessory trends.

Ann Taylor Rainbow Tortoiseshell Print Cuff Bracelet

A light green hobo handbag.

MKF Hobo Purse – Amazon

Tassel necklaces are Easy Spring Accessory Trend.

Talbots Thread Wrapped Tassel Necklace

Your turn! Which easy spring accessory trends are your favorite?