Rewarding Risks:

“Life is either a daring adventure or nothing at all.” – Helen Keller

This is one of my favorite quotes. I aim for this quote and Theodore Roosevelt’s quote about daring greatly to guide me as I journey through life

Not only does this attitude guide my life, but it even influences my personal style to some extent. I love expressing myself through fashion. More over, I enjoy discovering myself through style. I learn so much about what makes me tick — my likes, my dislikes, what I embrace, what I shy away from, what excites me, and so much more.

Now, keep in mind, risks are by definition, well, risky. If they were fool-proof solid formulas for success, they wouldn’t be called risks. So, when taking risks and stepping out of the safe harbor, be prepared for some criticism. But, it is after all just fashion. Experiment and have fun with yourBut sometimes you have to experiment and enjoy the process!

Having said all of that, today’s post is the first in a new series I am calling “Rewarding Risks.”

The Risk:

My risk for this look was layering a skirt over skinny jeans.

“Why?” you might ask… Just because! Because it was fun + different + quirky! But beyond that, I did do it for several intentional reasons…

1. It allowed me to work the cropped top and skinny jeans trend in a softer, more age-appropriate way. The loose, flirty nature of the skirt tones down the fitted top and jeans. It even masks some of the exposed skin.

2. The skirt adds a nice contrast in shape and texture. It added a nice peplum-like detail to an otherwise all fitted look. The eyelet material also adds a different texture to the outfit.

Keep reading for details on the look and shopping links…

The Look:

Shop the Risky Piece:

My white overlay piece is by Alaia from Forty Five Ten boutique in Dallas. The exact piece is not available online, but here I have rounded up some white skirt options across all price points that might work well, if you would like to duplicate this look.

Reasonably priced options (less than $500):

McQ Alexander McQueen skirt (here) | Rag & Bone skirt (here) | Kate Spade skirt (here) | Madewell skirt (here)

Inexpensive options (less than $100):

Gap skirt (here) | Target skirt (under $30 – here) | Forever 21 skirt (under $30 – here) | Forever 21 skirt (under $20 – here)

Shop My Look:

Proenza Schouler cropped top (here; reasonably priced option here; inexpensive options here and here) | JBrand jeans (here; inexpensive option here) | 3.1 Phillip Lim heels (here; flat version here) | Marni necklace (here) | Elena Ghisellini felina bag (here) | Karen Walker sunglasses (here) | Essie nail polish (here) | Nars jungle red lipstick (here)

Dare to be bold and adventurous with your fashion. What fun is it to imitate someone else? Be you! Enjoy the adventure of discovering and expressing yourself through your style. Push the envelope. Take risks. If there is no risk, perhaps there is no reward.

What fashion risk might you be willing to take? Whatever it is, have fun with it! Thanks for reading!

 

Have a great day,

Carrie

Photos by the super talented Justin James Photography