Building a Casual Wardrobe

Hope you're all having a great week!

Jeans:  Torrid (Available here)
T-shirt:  Torrid (Available here)

Today's look pairs my Torrid stiletto skinnies with a comfy tee and cropped blazer.  I wore this outfit last Sunday to run a few errands.

Bracelet:  The Limited
Sandals:  Payless

Clutch:  The Limited

The low-heeled sandals kept the look comfortable and gave the outfit a feminine charm.

Earrings:  The Limited

I love that the back of this jacket has interesting detail, giving this simple look a cooler vibe.

Jacket:  Torrid (Available here)

Building a casual wardrobe has been a difficult process for me.  My personal aesthetic tends towards evening looks and more polished pieces.  When I get home after a long day of work, I often reach for sweats and grubby tees.  Being so petite, most of my jeans require heels, which doesn't work well for running around with the kids or other casual events.  I've been working on building a stylish casual wardrobe that tows the line between my ultra-casual lounge wear and my work and evening wardrobe.

I think this outfit does just that.

What do you like to wear for casual wear?

To see these jeans in another look, see here and here.
For this tee in another look, see here.
To see this jacket in another outfit, click here.

A Shorts Story

Over the weekend, we took the kids to our local zoo, and this is what I wore:

Blazer:  LOFT Petites (Available here)
Shorts:  Torrid (Similar here)

The weather was perfect for walking around, and it was so fun watching my five-year-old squeal with delight at seeing all the animals.  :-)

James Dean t-shirt (Torrid here)
Shoes:  Kohl's (kids) (Available here)

Every time I say I'm not a fan of a certain trend or specific look, I find myself giving it a try (or three) and end up liking or even loving it. 

For example, I hated skinny pants and jeans on myself when they first came out and thought that I would never be a fan.  Now, I can't seem to get enough of them!

I've never been a big fan of shorts, no matter my size.  I always think they are riding up and have never found them as flattering as pants or skirts/dresses.

Purse:  Target (Available here)

This spring, I've seen so many cute shorts that I've been more willing to give them a try.  I also always find myself desperately seeking more breezy options come mid-July, and shorts are perfect for casual outdoor activities.  

These denim Bermuda shorts are super easy.  They have just the right amount of distressing, and because they are a longer, more fitted short, I don't get the dreaded ride-up issue.

Bracelets:  Target, Express, The Limited, H&M

I added a James Dean tee and seersucker blazer.  I love how the blazer dresses up the ultra casual jean shorts and tee.

This outfit has a tomboyish feel, but I added feminine details with the rope sandals, v-neck line, and bracelets.

It was perfect for a fun day at the zoo!!

For these shorts in another look, see here.

Soft Kitty :-)

Happy Sunday Funday, everyone!!!  Hope you're all having a great day! 

Blazer:  New York & Company
Jeans:  The Limited (Available here)
Satchel:  Target (Available in blue here)

Today, I went for a family brunch with the kids and wanted a comfortable and casual look.

I'm not much of a jeans and t-shirt gal, but when hanging out with the kids, sometimes the situation calls for it.  I like fun t-shirts, and I fell in love with this sweet "Soft Kitty" tee.

T-shirt:  Torrid (Available here)
Boots:  Target (Available here)
Cuff:  New York & Company (old)
Earrings:  Handmade (jewelry show)

If you're a fun of "Big Bang Theory" (in my top 5 of best shows ever!!), then you'll understand the reference.  Enjoy the clips below!

For this blazer in other looks, see here, here, and here.