When I get approached to style an outfit, I get excited. But when I’m asked to style a few outfits for a store I shop at faithfully, I get all sorts’ of giddy. Hudson’s Bay asked me to style a few pieces from their INC International Concepts line showing off its versatility; obviously I agreed. Not only do I love Hudson’s Bay and their many clothing lines, but versatility is what I look for in every piece of clothing that enters my wardrobe. My closet is by no means a walk-in my friends, each piece must be chosen carefully and strategically. Let me tell you about a totally inappropriate way I determine if an article of clothing is worth a place in my closet including it’s price tag. It’s really simple math folks, I break it down into how many ways I can wear it.
For example, for number sake let’s say I fall in love with a dress that’s $100, here is how I can get on the good-ship-comfortable with dropping that kind of money on a single wardrobe item:
- Can it be worn casually; a night out with girlfriends?
- Can it be dolled up; a night out with the man?
If I answer yes to both, it means the dress can really be considered as two and therefore the price tag is cut in half. Is the dress worth $50 to me, if so, then it comes with me to the register. Pretty ridiculous math eh? I like to think one of my specialties is being able to flawlessly dress something up and down (I’m talkin’ pearls with jeans baby!), and based on my shopping mathematics, I should never shop alone. Ever!
Now that we’re done with my lesson in retail math, let me tell you how much I love that fact that I was asked to style 2 outfits for Hudson’s Bay and INC International Concepts. In honor of the line’s 30th anniversary, these pieces along with the others in the line will be available for 30% off, in-store and online from May 15-21 (no promo code required); so without further ado, let me tell you about the pieces I received. I was given a gorgeously bold printed black and white maxi dress that I knew I was going to douse in some serious pattern-play (because it’s what we do!). The second piece I got was a ridiculously comfortable tunic that is all sorts’ of adorable yet I chose to make sexy (because, hello versatility!, and when do we ever get to combine sexy with comfort?).
MIXING PRINTS & PATTERNS
Although it sounds scary, layering patterns doesn’t have to be daunting (or maybe just a little, you’ll feel more badass wearing it that way)
Here are a few ways I like to clash, and mix my prints:
1. I try and keep one print dominate
2. I choose 1 color, and allow my pattern budget to be unlimited
3. Dress top to bottom in prints and patterns and mellow it out with a neutral top layer (ie: chambray button up)
4. I choose the same pattern, polka dots, and vary the size of them
5. I do the same, but different; red leopard on top with tan leopard on the bottom
Dress c/o Hudson’s Bay (INC International Concepts)
Regular Price: $109.00 // On Sale: $76.30
ACCESSORIZING A BASIC
When it comes to accessorizing, anything goes. Give yourself a blank canvas and let yourself go.
Here are a few ways I like to accessorize a basic:
1. When I go dramatic with my earring, I will likely forego a necklace
2. Stacking accessories is my favorite; bracelets, rings, and necklaces
3. Hats; never pass up a hat you feel a connection with. An outfit can always be topped with a hat
4. 1 pair of sunglasses just won’t do; find at least 3 different styles you love that you can rotate
5. I have a go-to casual set (long necklace, charm bracelet, and diamonds studs) I will always put on when I’m in a rush
Tunic c/o Hudson’s Bay (INC International Concepts)
Regular Price: $79.00 // On Sale: $55.30
Disclosure: I am part of The Hudson’s Bay Company and I.N.C campaign with Influence Central and I receive special perks as part of my affiliation with this group. But as always, the opinions on this blog are my own.
Diana says
GIRLFRIEND!!! I would have never thought to put prints together like you did with the maxi and the shall….I want this look now!! You look like a goddess!!
Tairalyn says
*shucks* now you have me blushing!
So happy you like clashing as much as I do. Does this mean I’ve opened your eyes to a whole new form of outfits. HECK! You can probably make 10 new looks in your current wardrobe now just pulling from your prints and patterns! TeeHee
Have so much fun!
xxoo
Tairalyn
weheartit.com says
Great blog! Do you have any helpful hints for aspiring writers?
I’m planning to start my own blog soon but I’m a little lost on everything.
Would you recommend starting with a free platform like WordPress or go for a paid option? There are so many options out there that I’m totally
confused .. Any tips? Kudos!
Tairalyn says
Thanks Jamal, It’s entirely up to you and how much control you want over your site. When you pay for your platform and hosting you have control over every aspect of your site vs. using a free platform. Depends if you want a blog for business or just for a hobby 🙂
Good luck with your blog! Such an awesome little outlet that you can call your very own.
xxoo
Tairalyn