Weekend Style: Spring Stripes and Jeans
The first day of Spring is less than 10 days away and I am wasting no time bringing out my white jeans and colorful blouses. While we may still be getting a "Wintery-mix" over the next few days, when I shot this look it definitely didn't feel that way. Spring and Summer are my 2 favorite seasons in general, but Spring is especially exciting for me in the fashion and styling realm. It gives me an excuse to show off my feminine style even more with floral prints, pastel shades, and light, flowy fabric.
One of the brands that I think of first when pulling fashion inspiration for Spring is Alice & Olivia. Now, a little unknown fact about me is that Alice & Olivia is one of my top 5 favorite brands of all time. The reason why you wouldn't know this about me is because I literally can't afford anything in their collection *sigh*. Alice & Olivia embodies every feminine, high-fashion inclination I have in my body. I would wear ANYTHING in their collection at all times; but especially their Spring line. Honestly, looking through their New Arrivals right now makes my credit card just feel maxed-out.
My point is, when Sam and I decided to wander into Historic Ellicott City a few weekends back for the shop closing of Bear Fox Babe, a specialty shopping landmark, I almost cried tears of happiness. Bear Fox Babe carries samples and overstock from showrooms in NYC and LA as well as some curated vintage. Sadly, I only discovered them via Instagram when I found out they were relocating to California (just my luck)! I hadn't realized that it was going to be a mad dash for the best items, but when we got to the shop, there were already other customers waiting outside for the doors to open. One look at Sam and we both knew, it was ON. Once we made our way inside, I lunged for the pink pieces and anything in my size and started layering them on top of Sam's arms (best fashion husband ever). I was the first one in the dressing room and tried on, no joke, probably 20 designer pieces. Pretty sure I was in stylist heaven. I found 2 pieces that I decided I couldn't live without: a Rachel Zoe skirt, and a For Love & Lemons dress. Both of which will be coming to the blog soon!
When I got to the front to pay, I saw this gorgeous Alice & Olivia striped blouse that someone had put back (no doubt it was someone whom had lost their mind). I saw that it was Alice & Olivia and immediately my wallet clenched up, but I asked the owner/boss babe, Macy, the price regardlessly. You guys. Because of her "moving day sale" and the tiniest, little pull on the top shoulder, it was like $22. Obviously I died and went to heaven and told her to shove it in my bag before someone else saw and told her she was crazy.
I can tell you right now that this is going to be one of my most-loved pieces in my wardrobe this season. I can see it working for the office, casual weekends running errands, and even dressed up for date nights or events in the city.
I paired this Alice & Olivia blue striped blouse with white skinny jeans, brown suede espadrilles from Poppy & Stella (a local Baltimore fave), a classic pink Kate Spade purse, round sunglasses from Ray Ban, and statement earrings from Nordstrom Rack. Fashion tip: Nordstrom Rack is my go-to for trendy jewelry because they have a huge selection and variety, and most pieces are under $20. It's perfect for when I need to add one last piece to "complete" an outfit, but don't want to spend a fortune.
Because this striped blouse was a rare find and is sold out online, I've linked similar styles and affordable dupes, along with my white jeans, sandals, and accessories at the bottom of this post!
SHOP THIS LOOK:
Okay, now I need to know: Are you a specialty (consignment, vintage, sample sale) shopper? Comment on the last photo on my Instagram feed and tell me your favorite piece yet or if you prefer to shop new!
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xo Anna Elizabeth