Summer is supposed to be warm in Santa Barbara. And it generally is—once we get past this June gloom nonsense. I’m currently sitting here with a closet full of dresses and cutoff jeans that have to wait at least another week before making their debut, courtesy of the cloudy weather. But then I spotted this Fashionista braving the chilly morning and realized that I didn’t have to wait to break out my summer wardrobe.
Layering is hardly a new concept, but the numerous ways in which it can be done keep the trend current. I happened to catch this Fashionista in the middle of rolling up her sleeves J.Crew style, allowing her borrowed-from-the-boys denim shirt to peek out from under her cardigan while adding a bit more structure to the casual outfit. This particular brand of layering allows her cardigan to be a main part of her outfit, but not overwhelm the western, summery flavor of her look.
This Fashionista’s oversized layers keep the integrity of her casual, western-style look intact while keeping her warm from the impending June gloom. Layering a thin white cardigan over an oversized chambray shirt keeps her warm enough to bare her legs in her lightly-patterned paisley dress. Defining her natural waist with a large black belt and contrasting her white sweater with a small black cross-body bag, her taupe ankle boots give the look a cowboy feel without going full Stetson. The more masculine oversized chambray is balanced by the feminine cut of the cardigan and the paisley print. Our Fashionista’s neutral accessories help to ground the look as well.
What is your STYLE ADVICE OF THE WEEK? “No matter the weather, dress like yourself. I know that’s cliché, but try to find a style that people know that’s yours!”
