versatile separates to mix and match
and just like that, we bid adieu to June! it’s been a glorious month with the first blush of summer delivering the perfect temps even here in Georgia. the 4th of July is upon us with a backyard barbecue and fireworks on the agenda. i don’t know about you, but i can’t wait to twirl a sparkler and dish up some homemade ice cream. stay tuned! and i also have you covered for a cute outfit or two. but when it comes to bang for your buck, versatile separates to mix and match are the ticket.
yes, a summer dress is perfect for a hot summer day. and July loves to give us those in spades. dresses are one and done and take the guesswork out of getting ready in the morning. the only decision left is what shoes or handbags to wear. but we all want our wardrobes to work for us day in and day out. that’s when versatile separates to mix and match come in handy. a beautiful summer top or bottom can be mixed and matched, layered, or dressed up or down. and if you’re lucky, that top or bottom can even match, creating the look of a dress or jumpsuit.
versatile separates to mix and match
many of you might remember this feminine and flirty top and skirt from Ann Taylor. in the above photo, the two separates are worn together, creating a dress. but that’s only the beginning. when i purchased both items, i knew they would be on summer repeat, pairing the top with jeans, pants, or shorts. and the skirt? it can be worn with tees or a linen or cotton blouse. so let’s see how i mixed and matched both items.
first up is the drop waist skirt. the weather was actually cool this particular day, so i layered a white linen blouse from J.Crew over a white tank top from Banana Republic for a casual outfit. since the linen blouse acted as a third layer, i tied it loosely with a front knot. a wicker handbag (old, similar here) is always at my beck and call this time of year. and my favorite Jack Rogers white sandals are in action. it’s an easy peasy outfit to throw together at a moment’s notice since it’s grounded in wardrobe basics (white tee, white blouse, and white sandals).
skirt | tee | linen blouse | sandals | bracelets | similar wicker handbag
shop Frances Valentine accessories
the top is on-trend this year with a square neck and puff sleeves. adding a trend or two into my classic wardrobe keeps it from becoming stale and stodgy. this lightweight blouse goes well with a pair of white denim a front tuck is added for good measure. but black pants would be a good choice too. i added a black handbag (old, similar here) and belt (old, similar here) to give a little oomph to the outfit and kept the accessories minimal. silver hoops (old similar here) and a silver heart long pendant necklace. guess what? my Jack Rogers sandals are back in action to polish off this casual chic outfit. if you want a bang for your buck, versatile separates to mix and match are the way to go.
white denim | blouse | sandals | similar handbag | similar belt | similar earrings | necklace
happy Wednesday, ladies. time to put a smile on someone’s face, including yours. stay tuned to tomorrow’s post where i will mix and match a top and pants.
Love pairing bold with white in summer. I couldn’t wear the skirt because it emphasizes an area I’d rather not but I love you in it.
ha ha! you are always so sweet! but bold with white is always all right.
Looking at you in the gorgeous clothes, I’m feeling 4th of July! How great!
No set plans right now as were expecting raindrops on both the 3rd and 4th, but grilling is still a possibility! Hope the weatherman is a teeny bit wrong…..
Happy 4th to you, Beth! ❤️🎉🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸
i am so looking forward to the 4th this year! fireworks and all. wishing you a very Happy 4th, Paulette!
First, you’re fabulous. Second, because I’m 5’3 and relatively short-waisted, I really struggle with the front/half tuck, as I feel it draws a bullseye on my tummy. And I find myself fussing with the back and sides and usually giving up. So since you have totally nailed this, I’d love to see side and back views of your front/half tuck. And a few weeks ago, you sported a very cute chambray or denim Talbots top with a back tuck, which I also loved. So please show us the 360 on this technique sometime— thanks!
i have a video that goes through all the different tucks. here’s a link: https://youtu.be/xO1FMV_VRCI
Beth, a big thank you for all your tips, rules and guidance. You have given me the courage to “not become invisible” after turning 60 last year. Please keep those emails coming!! A big happy 4th July to you, and your lovely followers, from Sydney Australia. Celebrate in style!!!
nothing makes me happier to hear! that’s what the blog is all about.
I just bought a pair of white cropped pants from Bloomies that was listed on your previous post. Do you get any sort of credit when people shop for the items on your post?
the blog uses affiliate links. it’s typically noted at the bottom of the blog post but the last blog update knocked that off and the tech
team has to put it back in place. but, yes, if you click the link then purchase an item i receive a commission. thank you!
Only you can pull off that bright orange and look so great!!
Have a nice night
I was missing you this morning
awww, you always say the nicest things!
The red outfit is so refreshing and suits you perfectly in all the variations. Love watching your ideas.
i so appreciate you being here!
I love Ann Taylor pieces. So versatile to mix and match, Orange is not a color for me though it looks really nice on you. Will look for something in red or blue for me.
Have a great 4th of July.
Ann is always a go-to store for me.
I really enjoyed watching you video about how to tuck or tie your shirts. I learned some new tricks… thanks so much for sharing!