Style Insight: Tie Dye Dress

Summer is a time for road trips, pool parties, and bubbly brunch sessions. No matter what your plans are for this season, it’s important you’re dressed for the heat. The wrong attire in summer can leave you dripping in sweat or, at the opposite end, exposed to skin-damaging sun rays.  In this post, we’ll share some staple summer outfit ideas that are both effortlessly stylish and weather-appropriate. We’ve made sure to accommodate a range of tastes and needs, so you’re sure to find a look that suits your preferences, natural features, and the occasion.  Staying Safe in the Heat Before we dive deep into our summer outfit ideas, we’ll first touch on some helpful safety advice. Always make sure you are protected from the heat with your summer outfit; this is by far the most important factor to consider when styling your attire. No matter how effortless you look initially, not protecting yourself from the heat will leave you an uncomfortable, sticky mess, and could even result in uncomfortable sun damage to your skin. Materials That Work Best for Summer  When you’re battling the heat, you want your outfit to be breathable, lightweight, and not cling to your skin. The material should also help to wick away sweat. With these factors in mind, you’ll want to avoid heat-retaining, thick materials like cashmere and velvet, and instead opt for materials such as linen, cotton, silk, chiffon, and rayon.  Chiffon and silk are particularly great materials for formal occasions as they can give any attire a sophisticated, elegant look. Must-Have Accessories to Beat the Heat  Accessories aren’t just stylish; the right kinds can help you beat the heat and protect you from the sun’s rays. Shades, dressy sun hats, and UPF jackets are all fabulous options, but be mindful that different occasions may call for different accessories. For example, you wouldn’t attend a formal ball while sporting a pair of sunshades. No matter what you choose to wear this summer, be sure to pack on the sunscreen, ideally SPF 30 or above. Sunscreen is the easiest (and most reliable) way to protect yourself from the sun. Plus, it also grants you more room for flexibility when styling your outfit — you can reveal more skin without putting yourself at risk of sunburns. Beach-Ready Summer Outfit Ideas  The outfits below are all great looks for a day out at the beach. Use these as inspiration when putting together your own beach-ready summer outfit: Floral Dresses  Floral dresses are the pinnacle of summer! They’re playful, naturally bring a befitting light and airy vibe, and can be easily dressed up or down to suit the occasion. Floral dresses come in various styles, so you should have no problem finding an option that reflects your interests and flatters your physique.  Floral dresses with oversized blooms are ideal for catching the eyes of those around you, while floral dresses with subtle, delicate patterns will give you a sophisticated, feminine flair. Consider a floral dress with ruffle embellishments if you want a total showstopping beach look. Maxi-Length Skirt  A maxi-length, flowy skirt will look absolutely gorgeous when it catches the summer breeze, and you can easily wear it on top of your beach swimwear. Lightweight materials like chiffon typically work best here, but always prioritize your own personal style and preferences. Add dimension with patterns or textures such as ruffles and pleats. Two Piece (aka Co-ord Set) As the name suggests, a two piece set is essentially a semi-casual outfit that comes pre-coordinated. The main perk of a co-ord set is that it takes the work out of styling; all you really have to think about is what accessories to pair it with! Most co-ord sets consist of a cropped bodice with a high-waisted skirt, though there’s a wide array of styles, including unique combos like fitted blazers and pleated pants. A cropped bodice skirt set, in particular, offers a stylish beach vibe that’s still practical for the sun and sand. Pair with dressy sandals for more formal occasions (like a beach summer wedding).  Summer Outfit Ideas for Special Occasions  Need to pull out all the stops? These outfit ideas are totally glamorous and sure to let you shine brighter than the hot summer sun. A-Line Ruffled Gown An A-line ruffled gown is sophisticated, elegant, and a total showstopper. The A-line fit helps to accentuate your natural curves, while the ruffles add dimension and convey confidence and style.  Any gown color can work, provided it complements your natural features, but make sure to opt for lightweight, flowing materials to keep things breathable under the sun.  Jumpsuit  If you’re looking to honor your wild side but still keep things glamorous, a jumpsuit is sure to be your best friend. A jumpsuit defies conventions, has a flair of sophistication, and is still playful enough for the summer vibe. You can also effortlessly pair it with a dressy sun hat. Sleeveless Blouse  After a sophisticated look that doesn’t sacrifice comfort? Then you really can’t go wrong with a sleeveless fitted blouse. This look is professional, universally flattering, and won’t leave you drenched in sweat. Stick to neutral hues for a classy, timeless look, or opt for bright, bold hues to match the spirited vibe of summer.  Casual Summer Outfit Ideas   For everyday wear, you can’t go wrong with these staple summer outfit ideas: Cotton crop top and pair of denim jeans  Midi linen dress with sandals for a fun yet flirty vibe  Lightweight blouse with denim shorts; dress up with a denim jacket  Loose wide-leg pants with a neutral-hued tank top  Halter top with jeans and dressy sandals  Graphics t-shirt with linen pants  Striped cotton dress with a woven crossbody bag  Puff-sleeved blouse with white shorts   Denim midi skirt with a comfy sweater and white sneakers Pleated high-waist pants with a chunky belt and loose-fit top Since you’re after a casual fit, don’t be afraid to try out bold colors, patterns, and designs. You can also experiment with textures for an eye-catching look, such as pairing a denim jacket with a ruffled skirt or pleated pants.  That said, avoid straying too far out of your comfort zone. When you feel comfortable in what you’re wearing, your confidence will naturally shine through and elevate any look! Summer Outfit Ideas for Men Looking for a few summer outfit ideas for men? We have you covered -- each outfit is well-suited to the season and complementary to all kinds of physiques: A casual, loose-fit t-shirt with neutral-hued shorts  Collared shirt with denim jeans  A smart button top with fitted linen pants  A cream polo with khaki pants A well-fitted shirt with chinos and slip-on sneakers A linen jacket with suit pants and loafers  All of these outfits are great options, but be mindful of the occasion that you're dressing for, as well as ways that you want to show your personality. For example, if linen isn't your thing, you can go with other lightweight fabrics in summery colors.  Where Can I Find Summer Attire? If you're ready to change up your wardrobe for the summer season, you can find plenty of gorgeous, trendy summer attire for sale at your local mall and department stores. For a more sustainable (and budget-friendly) approach, you can also check out vintage boutiques and charity shops. If you’re shopping for summer attire out of season, your best bet is to shop for options online. Just be sure to read the small print (aka the shop’s return policy) — you want to be able to return the outfit if it doesn’t fit well in person! Getting Summer Ready  Getting summer ready is all about keeping your outfit effortlessly stylish and weather-appropriate. From stellar jumpsuits to eye-catching floral dresses, there’s sure to be a summer outfit idea above that’ll allow you to feel your best.  When choosing your summer outfit, be mindful of the type of occasion and if there’s a dress code in place. You should also feel comfortable in what you’re wearing and ensure you’re protected from the sun. Pack plenty of sunscreen and consider protective attire like sun hats, UPF jackets, and shades.

It's brunch season and you have been invited for a scrumptious-sounding mid-day meal. The question isn't whether to go to or not, but what to wear. There are endless possibilities for what you can wear to brunch. You can throw on a pair of jeans and a T-shirt or even wear a flowy sundress. While you can select between a lot of clothing, the golden rule is to find something that is casual, comfortable, and stylish.  If you’re looking for dressy yet laid-back brunch ideas to fit any theme, this guide is for you.  How to Style Classics for Brunch Timeless classics are the perfect attire for brunch, as they are versatile and can easily be dressed up or down. Learning how to style the staples in your wardrobe goes a long way, and can save you a lot of money when dressing for last-minute plans.  Wrap Dress Wrap dresses have a flattering silhouette that cinches at the waist. The cut features a v-shaped neckline that can be adjusted according to the wrap and tie of the dress. As it can easily be modified, the wrap dress suits all body types. You can tie it to fit your curves snugly or choose for a looser fit if you want an easy breezy look.  These dresses are appropriate for semi-formal to casual occasions, depending on the fabric and embellishments. The cut is sophisticated and playful, making it ideal for daytime events. You can pair a wrap dress with strappy sandals and heels to elongate your silhouette and create a more formal vibe. A delicate pendant will enhance the neckline and add flair to your overall look. Carry a small clutch or a crossbody bag for an outfit that says ‘brunch ready’. A-Line Dress A-line dresses are the most reliable choice for any occasion. The dress features a silhouette that is fitted at the top and flares out from the waist. When worn, A-line dresses create a soft, feminine look that is timeless and balanced.  A-line dress cuts are flattering for all body types, drawing in the waist and hiding the hips and thighs. It is particularly suitable for women with a triangle-shaped body, where the bottom is curvier than the bust. These dresses will seem like a perfect fit for nearly all events, from a casual Saturday brunch to the occasional fancy affair. To elevate your dress, add a chic belt to accentuate your figure. If the brunch will take place outdoors, you can also wear a wide-brimmed hat for a 90’s vogue effect. Espadrilles and sandals are footwear choices that complement this look.  Tea-Length Dress Loved for their vintage vibe, tea-length dresses have a cutesy and feminine silhouette. These dresses fall between the knee and the ankle, striking the perfect balance between elegant and fun. This dress elongates the legs and is perfect for women looking to lengthen their silhouette. Taller women can wear a tea-length dress to bring attention to their natural figure. You can pair this dress with pointed-toe heels or kitten heels to lift your frame and create a balanced look. As a general rule of thumb, flats are to be avoided when wearing tea-length dresses.  Accessorize your tea-length dress with a silk scarf, sunglasses, and pearl earrings to play up the vintage look. This attire is appropriate for a more refined and formal brunch experience.  Jumpsuit Jumpsuits get full points for being functional, comfortable, and stylish. They are the perfect going-out attire while keeping things casual. Jumpsuits consist of a top and a bottom stitched together. They come in many different styles ranging from structured and fitted to flowy. You can choose a cut that fits the mood of the brunch.  The great thing about jumpsuits is that they flatter all body types. If you have a longer torso, choose a shorter bodice and longer bottom. To accentuate your curves, look for a jumpsuit with a cinched waist.  For formal occasions, look for a jumpsuit made from dressy fabrics such as satin and crepe. Add flair to your look for special or celebratory brunches by wearing an embellished jumpsuit. Pair with matching jewelry and platform sandals.  Maxi Dress Inspired by bohemian fashion, maxi dresses embody a free-spirited charm perfect for casual brunches. They are ankle-length and have a flowy skirt. Maxi dresses come in a variety of colors, prints, and fabrics. Chiffon is commonly used in making semi-formal maxi dresses, as it has a soft texture and loose drape. Maxi dresses have an elongating effect, creating an even silhouette. Taller women can wear maxi dresses to enhance their frame, while petite women can benefit from the length. These dresses are also flattering on shorter figures when paired with heels or platforms.  To dial up the look for brunch, wear a statement layered necklace and carry a structured bag with your outfit. 7 Trendy Brunch Outfit Ideas  Trouble deciding your outfit for brunch? These outfit ideas have you covered all kinds of brunch invites, from casual last-minute brunches to chic soirees. Street Chic Add a touch of edge to your brunch look by incorporating street-style elements. Start with a ruched mini dress as your base. Opt for bold and bright colors such as orange, pink, or blue. You can also look for abstract designs and prints. Then, pair the dress with an oversized denim jacket or a structured blazer in neutral tones.  To finish the look, pair with ankle-length boots and a crossbody bag.  Feminine Florals Nothing says brunch better than a breezy, floral dress. This look is perfect for outdoor brunches with a serene, natural backdrop. Look for a chiffon midi dress with pleats and a soft floral print. You can also look for prints with a watercolor effect to enhance the garden fairy vibe.  To add structure and sharpness, you can wear a slim leather belt that complements your dress. Complete the look with delicate jewelry and matching strappy sandals.  Effortlessly Vogue This ensemble creates a minimalist, high-fashion vibe to impress all your high-brow friends at brunch. You will need a sleek, monochromatic dress in a fitted silhouette. Opt for designs with clean lines and minimal embroidery or embellishments.  Add statement accessories such as a structured handbag, oversized sunhat, or sunglasses to bring this look together. Keep the choice of footwear simple yet sophisticated by wearing mules or loafers. This is an outfit that will have you feeling ready for Fashion Week.  Regal in Silk Bring class and elegance to the table with this luxurious brunch outfit. Choose a silk slip dress with a cowl neck in soft, muted tones such as baby blue and powder pink. To add flair to the ensemble, look for a dress made with printed satin. For a more understated look, layer with a cozy cardigan.  Complete the look with heeled thong sandals and a small clutch. Matching Set Matching sets are ideal for those lazy days when you want an easy, no-fuss outfit. Choose a matching blouse and skirt set for an effortlessly chic vibe. Sets in neutral tones create a sophisticated appearance, while printed sets offer a bold look.  Add a statement cuff and earrings in contrasting colors to lift the overall outfit. To keep things fun and flirty, opt for lace-up sandals or wedges.  Vacation Mode Get ready for a tropical getaway with this fun, breezy brunch outfit. Start with a halter-neck maxi or midi dress in a floral print. You can also wear a sundress in pastel hues for a laid-back vacation vibe.  Dress up the attire with espadrilles, a woven handbag, and a wide-brimmed hat. Wearing layered bangles and pearl studs will add a classy flair to your appearance.  Final Tips for Putting Together the Ideal Brunch Look Brunch can feel slightly tricky to dress up for as you want to nail the balance between stylish and comfortable. It can help if you start with getting a sense of the mood for the day. Is the invite casual, or will attendees be dressed to impress? Then, pick a fabric and style that you can relax in. Breathable materials such as linen, cotton, and silk keep you light and fresh. In terms of silhouettes, think flowy cuts and loose drapes. You can add balance and structure to your look by pairing a loose-cut top with a structured bottom and vice versa.  For hair and makeup, keep things soft and natural. You can do chic hairstyles such as a messy bun or a slick-backed ponytail.  The final tip is to start with a simple no-frills base, such as an A-line dress, and incorporate dressy elements into your look. This will ensure that you nail the relaxed brunch vibe while looking polished and sleek. 

A quinceañera is a special celebration in Latin American cultures that marks a young woman’s fifteenth birthday. It symbolizes the transition from childhood to young womanhood, making it an occasion of immense cultural and personal value. It is typically celebrated with a formal party, a religious ceremony, and various traditional customs. As with any monumental celebration, it’s essential to choose the right attire for a quinceañera. Your outfit should reflect the event’s principles of maturity, community, and elegance that embody the sensational change to adulthood.  This article will help both the guest of honor and the attendees understand what to wear to a quinceañera so that everyone can look their best while respecting the traditions and dress code of the event.  Outfit Options for the Guest of Honor A quinceañera is typically celebrated with grandeur, and this will be reflected in your attire as the guest of honor. There are various options you can choose from, as tradition has blended with contemporary fashion over the years. This has allowed for fashion-forward people to express their unique styles while maintaining critical aspects of the event’s tradition. As you browse through different outfits, remember that colors often hold symbolic meaning in such events. Most guests of honor traditionally wear white to represent purity and new beginnings. However, pastel colors are recently on the rise, with pink, lilac, and light blue being popular choices.  Ball Gowns A ball gown is the classic choice for a quinceañera. With voluminous skirts, a fitted bodice, and layers of beading and embroidery, this dress is the very picture of femininity. Fabrics such as satin, tulle, and organza are commonly used to give shape to the dress and create a luxurious appearance. Popular ball gown styles include: A-Line Gown: This style is fitted at the top and gradually flares out at the bottom to create a flattering silhouette for most body types.  Mermaid Gown: This dress is fitted through the bodice and hips but flares out at the knees for a dramatic, mermaid-like look. Princess Gown: This is the classic ball gown that we see princesses wearing in fantasy movies. It is fitted at the bodice and flares out with layers of skirts to create a magical effect.  Selecting a ball gown ultimately comes down to your personal preference, but you’ll also need to consider the quinceañera’s theme and venue. A princess gown might work better in a grand ballroom, whereas an A-line gown would be better in a smaller, more intimate setting.  Alternative Dress Options If you prefer to go with a less traditional look, there are a number of alternative dress options that are both stylish and more contemporary.  Tea-Length Dress: The hemline of this dress falls between the knee and ankle, combining the charm of a full-length gown with the practicality of a shorter dress. Asymmetrical Gown: This gown is characterized by uneven hemlines, neckline cuts, and design elements. It provides a creative twist to traditional gowns and is the perfect option for guests of honor who are trying to emulate a more fashion-forward appearance.  Two-Piece Outfit: This outfit can consist of a separate top, such as a trendy crop top, paired with a skirt or pants. You can customize the styling of this look and adapt it to various occasions.  Jumpsuit: This one-piece garment is an unconventional option that offers ease of movement with a streamlined silhouette that can work in both formal and casual events.  Footwear The footwear for the guest of honor needs to be the perfect blend of style and comfort. High heels are the first option for most people, but you need to make sure you can still manage dancing and standing throughout the event. If these aren’t comfortable, you can always consider elegant flats or low-heeled shoes that still match the formality of the gown. Accessories  Accessories play a vital role in completing the quinceañera look. As the guest of honor, you need to opt for simple, elegant designs that complement the gown but don’t draw too much attention away from it. Some like adding a tiara or a decorative sash as a classy touch to symbolize royalty and grace as the lady of the hour.  Outfit Options for the Attendees If you’re an attendee, your aim should be to follow the quinceañera’s theme and dress your best without overshadowing the guest of honor. Attendees are often discouraged from wearing white as it is considered to be the lady of the hour’s primary color. You can opt for any color ranging from soft pastels to more vibrant colors, but make sure you respect the host’s spotlight. Formal Attire A well-fitted suit or tuxedo is ideal for a man attending a quinceañera. You can choose a classic dark suit for the evening or lighter shades for daytime celebrations. Women are encouraged to wear elegant cocktail dresses and evening gowns that don’t seem too flashy.  If you feel that your dress is too simple, you can enhance it with delicate details like a simple belt, subtle pleats, or a gentle mermaid cut. This will maintain a sense of understated glamor that won’t draw too much attention away from the guest of honor.  Semi-Formal and Casual Options If the quinceañera is a semi-formal or casual event, you can be a bit relaxed with the dress code. Men can go for dress pants with a dress shirt and blazer on both sorts of occasions. On the other hand, women can opt for chic dresses or stylish jumpsuits. Even a nice blouse with tailored trousers can work well if worn with confidence. Just keep in mind that the outfit needs to be polished and respectful.   Accessories If men opt for any accessories like ties or bowties, make sure they coordinate with the overall outfit for a classy look. The same goes for women—your accessories shouldn’t unnecessarily clash with your attire.  Simple jewelry pieces, such as a pair of pearl or diamond stud earrings or a dainty necklace, are sometimes all you need. You can also bring a small clutch in a matching or neutral color to keep your essentials and give your clothes a stylish touch. Lastly, a light shawl or wrap in silk or satin can both add to your outfit and keep you warm in colder weather.  Practical Tips to Consider With your quinceañera outfit in mind, here are some practical tips to consider: Avoid overly casual attire at all costs. Even for less formal events, you need to look polished to uphold the sophisticated tradition of a quinceañera.  Try on your quinceañera outfit well before the actual date. This helps make sure it fits properly and allows for comfortable movement, giving you enough time to request any necessary alterations. Go for comfort while maintaining a sense of elegance. Choose fabrics and dress styles that you can wear for long periods of time, as most of your time will be spent continuously dancing or standing.  Check the weather forecast ahead of time. If your quinceañera is outdoors or in a venue with changing temperatures, make sure your outfit and accessories are appropriate. Research designers who specialize in quinceañera attire at various price points. If you can’t find any affordable options, you can consider renting formalwear.  Lay out everything you’ll need, including accessories and footwear, to avoid last-minute stress. Make sure to drink plenty of water and have a nutritious meal before the event to keep your energy up. This will help you enjoy the celebration without feeling fatigued. Pack a small kit with essentials, such as safety pins, double-sided tape, and a mini sewing kit. These can be lifesavers for quick fixes in case of any wardrobe malfunctions. If you’re unsure about what to wear, don’t hesitate to ask your hosts for guidance on dress codes and traditions. It’s always better to be informed than to leave things up to chance.  Gear Up for Your Quinceañera As you prepare for your upcoming quinceañera, welcome every moment of this significant milestone with open arms. This celebration is a unique opportunity to honor your journey into womanhood, surrounded by family and friends who share in your joy.  \Whether you end up choosing a traditional ball gown or a more contemporary dress, keep in mind that the essence of the event lies in celebrating who you are and the journey ahead.