If you have watched any fashion shows this past season, walked into a store or done some online shopping, it’s hard not to notice the models baring shoulders. The off-the-shoulder trend has become more and more popular as a way to feel empowered and sexy by showing off just the right amount of skin. It’s perfect timing with the upcoming summer heat, and perfect for Fashionistas who, like me, don’t want to bare it all.
The Alice + Olivia spring 2016 ready-to-wear collection was any desert goddess’s day dream. Pulling inspiration from butterflies, flowers and the sun, Stacey Bendet was able to create her own imaginative desert full of boho chicks. This collection consisted of off-the-shoulder pieces, a new statement denim line, hand embroidery, laser cut-outs and gowns. The garments were warm neutrals, cool pastels and of course, black and white.
Starting with the trend, I pulled out my off-the-shoulder shirt hanging in my closet. A black Forever21 crop top in favor of the black and white Alice and Olivia signature. With a V-neck and overlapped detail, it reminded me of a butterfly—much like one used for the inspiration of the collection. Sticking with the theme of using denim as a statement piece, I styled the top with a pair of high-waisted jeans from Topshop. Although these weren’t flared at the bottom or hand embroidered, they stuck with the color scheme. In addition, I wanted to incorporate the neutral colors. So, I went with my laser-cut, tan Buffalo by David Bitton jacket with a floral print lining—perfect to throw on for the chillier summer nights.
By carefully examining the styling in the Alice and Olivia collection, I knew my MissGuided heels would be a great match to the lace-up heels. Also, they stayed in the neutral color zone, and matched my jacket. I accessorized with my jewelry and a pair of sunglasses to create a statement full of boho-vibes. My earrings and my necklace are from Forever21 and my toe ring is from Kohl’s. I made my other rings from geodes, except for my pinky ring, which was passed down to me from my great grandmother. The sunglasses were also passed down to me from my mom, creating a pop of vintage. The bright blue colored glasses with the red patterned rim couldn’t have fit better with the exciting bold pop of color found throughout the Alice and Olivia collection. To top it all off, I let my hair loose and stayed with my daily beauty routine to channel the natural bohemian-babe look.
There are so many different ways to style the off-the-shoulder trend whether you’re channeling bohemian, vintage, edgy, feminine, or a mixture like myself. It’s the perfect piece to get flirty with your look for the summer.
Get My Look: 1. Off-the-shoulder cropped top. 2. High waisted jeans. 3. Lace-up heels.
