I first added this packable poncho to my cart basically on a whim. I was researching cute rain jackets for our recent YouTube video (and, well, life) and I liked how unapologetically cute – and borderline ridiculous – this piece was. I had pretty low expectations, so I was shocked when it ended up being one of my favorite rain jackets of the bunch.
poncho (s) | tank (6) | shorts (6) or similar | shoes
Even so, after my initial try-on, while I could admit that this poncho was adorable and fun, I didn’t think it would be all that useful. I tried to picture when I would actually wear it, and was only able to conjure up very specific, Free People-esque ways: oddly cute, non-technical hiking outfits, swimming in a lake (no seriously there are photos), mayyyybe even walking through waterfalls? Perhaps if we go back to Iceland? Niagara Falls? Obviously this poncho needs to travel.
poncho (s) | tank (6) | shorts (6) or similar | shoes
Did I mention that the name of this piece is “Rain Goddess”? I mean.
There is no doubt that this poncho is one of those pieces – and I haven’t used this phrase in years – that makes my heart beat fast. It brings the joy.
poncho (s) | tank (6) | shorts (6) or similar | shoes
And so, when Philly started to have it’s usual stretch of rainy spring days, this was the first piece I reached for. Just for funsies. And – much to my delight – it looked freaking amazing with everything. Over workout clothes, jeans, little dresses – my usual spring outfits all looked better(!!) with a see-through, flowered poncho on top. Who knew?
poncho (s) | tank (6) | shorts (6) or similar | shoes
Best of all, this style of rain jacket did a really stellar job of keeping me dry, too. It’s the right length to keep most of the rain off, and fits over bulky hoodies. While I know we’re starting to head into warmer temps and sunnier days, I can’t imagine that this piece will stay in stock for long, and I know I would’ve been sad to miss out. I really can’t recommend it highly enough.
4 Ways I’ve Been Wearing Free People’s Rain Goddess Poncho
These are just four of the outfits I’ve worn under this poncho recently. Or at least the four I remembered to take photos of! I’ve worn it on date night, to go and workout, to watch a track meet, to head into the office, and to run errands around the city. I actually wore it on an easy hike (but it does get too warm if you really get going).
1. With Jeans & Ballet Flats
poncho (s) | jeans (26) | shoes | bag
My first test is almost always with my favorite jeans. Love how the ballet flats keep the baggy-on-baggy look intentional. And that darn bag just still keeps going. Love it.
2. To The Track Meet (Hoodie, Jeans, Sneakers)
poncho (s) | school hoodie | jeans (28) | sneakers
This is the exact outfit I wore to Raines’ track meet. I stayed warm and dry and that hood is freaking amazing, FYI.
3. Over A Mini Dress
poncho (s) | dress (m) | sandals
I think because it’s see-through, you don’t get the flasher vibes of a trench coat, nor any is-she-or-isn’t-she pants questions.
4. With Sexy Jeans & Pops of Color
poncho (s) | sweater (s) | jeans (28) | sandals | bag
You can’t quite tell here, but these jeans are seriously cool and realllllly sexy. They look amazing with heels, but for walking around the city, I cuffed ’em with comfy flat sandals. Wild that this poncho is so good in a city environment.
Moral of this story? Trust your gut – joy is a completely valid requirement for clothes.
xo,
S
