When I first had the idea for this post, it was going to be titled something like “My Outfit Formula for Gray Summer Days.” We were on our third (maybe fourth?!) week of coastal cloud cover and it seemed the only angle to express my summer style, which inevitably involves a lot of sweaters. And then on the day we actually decided to shoot it? 90 degrees and sunny. Go freaking figure.
The funny thing, though, is that even amidst the heat, this outfit held up so well. Yes, I had the cardigan draped over my arm by the end of it, but when the shoot concluded, we cruised through a nearby street festival, and I was so pleasantly surprised by how comfortable this dress was for a little impromptu dance party. (Obviously, the sneakers were an added bonus.) I even came to appreciate the cardigan when we dipped into a coffee shop for lunch when all was said and done. I swear they really let the AC rip in some of these places.
Cute Outfit Inspo = Bodycon Dress + Graphic Cardigan
On Lana: Dress (we’re both obsessed with this brand) // Vans
Both the ruched dress and the graphic cardigan were part of my recent Amazon review post, and they’re both items I would 100% purchase again. The dress is flattering and comfortable, and even though it’s quite fitted, it’s lined, which makes it feel much more luxe — and even work-appropriate. (Real talk, I would probably rock this entire outfit in an office setting, but I’d swap the sneakers for these d’Orsay oxfords or statement flats, add a chunky necklace — loving the versatility of this tortoise shell piece — and wear my hair up.)
Exactly as it’s pictured here, this combo has already survived several weekend park dates, a bike ride down the coast, and (if all goes to plan) I’ve got it lined up for a playdate at the zoo next weekend. Here’s hoping the big cats don’t get too riled up. 😉
Outfit Details
Ruched Bodycon Dress // One of my favorite finds from my Amazon haul post, so comfy — and available in a TON of colors. Lined for a flattering shape — also appreciate that you can wear a normal ol’ bra. True to size if perhaps a smidge on the small side. (I’m wearing a S, which is the smallest size available, and I typically fit between an XS-S. For reference, I’m 5′ 51/2″.)
Graphic Open Front Cardigan // This black and white leopard print cardigan is more than worth its < $30 price tag — it’s easily one of the pieces I’ve worn most this season. Totally digging the pockets (especially over a dress without pockets, it adds some much-needed function) and it’s so easy to pop over plenty of other summer outfits, too. (Spoiler alert: this won’t be the last time you see it.) I also have this cardigan heading my way in the mail (it’s now 70% off!) — I really love the shape and the more subtle print, but no pockets might be a deal-breaker. We’ll see.
Adidas // Classic, simple – just preppy enough and easy to clean (at least compared to white canvas sneaks). I wear these all year long, but my favorite look is with shorts or a dress — something that shows a little leg. If you wear a women’s size 9 or smaller, my favorite money-saving tip is to buy boys’ size.
Sunglasses // I picked up these Sunskis for a 3-day trek through Hong Kong’s countryside, and I’ve been wearing them ever since. They offer polarized lenses and a forever guarantee at such a good price, and they come in a bunch of unisex styles and colorways (considering picking up this pair with more oversized fit – love the purple lenses!). They sit nicely on the head, too. I know that’s a big no-no, but it can’t be helped.
Earrings // Going on my third week of wearing these tortoise shell earrings almost daily, and I still have only good things to say. They also come with a lighter colored pair for a grand total of — wait for it… — $5.59. Yep, two pairs of on-trend earrings for under $6 — and, perhaps most amazingly, they don’t irritate my sensitive piercings at all.
Backpack // What do you call a diaper bag once it’s no longer used for, well, diapers? Whatever it is, that’s how this Fjallraven Kanken pack functions for us. We tote everything from water bottles and doodling paper/crayons to snacks (ALWAYS SO MANY SNACKS), a change of clothes and more in this super-versatile, comfier-than-it-looks little daypack. It comes in a ton of colors (I was so tempted to add this colorful artsy number to our collection or this rainbow stripe badass) but the neutral blue matches everything much the same as denim, which we oddly enough never really think of as Blue. Huh, how ’bout that… Anyway! Really the only downside is that the inside lacks pockets for any type of organization — but you guys!! THAT’S WHAT THIS IS FOR. An almost custom-fitting felt insert with pockets up the wazoo! Absolutely game-changing and perhaps the most useful thing I’ve bought all year. Buy the backpack, stuff it with the insert, organize all your shit in the most satisfying way, done.
Shop All the Products Mentioned in This Post
Everything from this exact outfit, plus a couple of fun alternatives mentioned in the above post. And I’m loving the new sale alerts!
Shop More Graphic Print Cardigans
Definitely eyeing the classic leopard version of the piece I have now, plus a more luxurious zebra version that’d definitely be an investment item.
Shop More Casual Bodycon Dresses
I’ve worn this black tank dress so much I’m considering adding a lighter color, too!
xo!
Em
Photos by Kait Miller Photography.
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