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Our May 2021 Favorites

Fashion
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June 3, 2021

Hello! Today I’m shaking things up a bit. I’ve been sharing my favorite purchases and best loved items for the month, but today I thought I’d share OUR favorites. So I’m presenting to you my usual list of beauty products, accessories and clothing items that I’m loving, wearing and using the most for the month of May. But I’m also going to reveal the 5 Top Purchases at Dressed for My Day for the month. These are the things my readers and YouTube followers are purchasing like hotcakes. It’ll be interesting to see if you bought any of these and if you’re enjoying them.

Our May 2021 Favorites

First up I’ll share my top 11 beauty products, accessories and clothing items for the month of May. Then I’ll tell you what readers and viewers have been purchasing through my links the most.

My Top 11 Favorites for May

By the way, if you’re curious how I figure out my top favorites, I look back through my How I Really Dressed for My Day posts to see what I wore the most frequently. Plus, as I look at the photos, I remember how different things made me feel as I wore or used them.

These are not in any particular order. I love them all!

White Cinched V-Neck Tee

Cinched V-Neck Tee
Loft Cinched V-Neck Tee // Madewell jeans (TTS) // linen blazer // necklace // earrings // demi bracelet // pearl bracelet // sunglasses // slide sandals

I came across this Cinched V-Neck Tee just before finalizing my white t-shirt review. It didn’t meet the qualifications of the “contestants,” which were all classic v-necks. But I decided this cropped tee deserved to be included anyhow.

White Cinched Front Tee with Modern Jeans & White Blazer
Loft Cinched V-Neck Tee // Madewell jeans (TTS) // linen blazer // necklace // earrings // demi bracelet // pearl bracelet // sunglasses // slide sandals

If you saw my latest YouTube video, How to Stylishly Front Tuck Your Top, you know that I recommended it there as an alternative to the front tuck. This Cinched V-Neck Tee also comes in charcoal grey and rich hazelnut, and it runs true to size.

The Cinched V-Neck Tee works well with most anything that has a medium to high rise. Here I’m wearing it with my patchwork skirt, as seen in the video.

How I Really Dressed Monday
cotton canvas skirt (another similar option in more size availability) // cinched t-shirt // sneakers (more economical option) // necklace // earrings // Unika watch (use code KAYHRMS for 15% off)

Nordgreen Unika Watch

I was gifted this Unika watch by Nordgreen so that I could share it with my readers in this video, How to Create Great Outfits with Simple Separates. I love both of my Nordgreen watches, but I especially love the extra strap I purchased for this one. The straps are so easy to switch in and out. I switch them out almost daily.

But what I’m loving the most about this classic but modern watch is the white leather strap I also purchased to wear with it. And unfortunately they don’t seem to have any white leather straps available right now. Phooey. But they do have a pretty soft grey.

patio red side tie shift dress // crinkle cotton beach shirt // sneakers // earrings // Unika Watch

You can see me wearing the white leather strap with the Unika watch in the photo above, which is from an upcoming video. By the way, I’m collaborating with Nordgreen again soon, and they’ve already given me a new offer to give you. You have your choice in fact. You can still get 15% off your total order with code KAYHRMS or you can order a watch at the regular price and then get another strap for FREE with code KYHMF. You might want to check out the Nordgreen collection of watches for women and men (Father’s Day is fast approaching!) HERE.

Talbots Hampshire Ankle Pants in Fawn

Looking back over my daily outfit photos I discovered that I wore these Talbots Hampshire Ankle Pants in Fawn three times in May. Ha! That’s a lot for someone who doesn’t work outside the home. I love the fit of these pants and the versatility of this soft fawn color.

What I wore Sunday 1
Talbots Hampshire Ankle pants in curvy fit (in regular fit) // shirt no longer available (similar) // white linen blazer // demi chain bracelet // pearl bracelet // demi pearl necklace // baroque pearl chain necklace // Veronica Hoop earrings // Bossy Beige Pumps (use code KAYHEELS for $40 off first pair of heels) // similar handbag

I actually have the Hampshire Ankle pants in curvy fit, but they’re also available in a regular fit. And they also come in several other nice neutrals and colors. The curvy fit fits me true to size. I’m wearing an 8.

How I Really Dressed Sunday morning
ankle pants in curvy fit (regular fit) in fawn // sleeveless leopard print blouse (size down) // braided double strap sandals // black cardigan // customized necklace (or similar here) // shoulder bag (more economical option)

These ankle pants hit me right at the ankle bone. Remember, I’m 5’8″. But they also come in petite sizes. I think I’ll be able to wear these year round, except for when it’s bitter cold.

Ally Shoes Bossy Beige Pumps

Bossy Beige Pumps
Bossy Beige Pumps

Here’s another gifted product I’m really enjoying. These Bossy Beige Pumps from Ally shoes are the most comfortable pumps I’ve ever worn, hands down. When you first put them on they are a bit snug. But within just a few minutes of wearing them, I forget I have them on. And I can wear them for several hours with no discomfort at all. (I might could wear them longer; I just haven’t needed to.)

Try-On 1
Hampshire ankle pants // cotton blend double v-neck sweater // bossy beige pumps (use code KAYHEELS) // white linen blazer // necklace only in silver // demi bracelet // pearl bracelet // earrings

I like that Ally Shoes is founded and run by a female team, and their shoes are designed by women, too. They are meticulous about helping their customers get the right fit, and provide all the information you’ll need to find the shoes that are right for you. Recently they sent me the Prowess Pearl Suede Block Heel Pump. Oh my word. They are soooo lovely.

Anyhow, I’ll admit these are pricey shoes. And I didn’t have to pay for them. But if you wear heels a lot and want comfortable ones that also look great, I do suggest you check them out. And I can help you get $40 off your first set of heels with code KAYHEELS or 10% off your first flats with code KAYFLATS. You can shop Ally high quality heels and flats HERE.

Talbots Linen Crops

I loved these Talbots Linen Crops so much I bought my mom some for Mother’s Day. And she loves them, too! I find them to run true to size in the misses and she says they run true to size in petites, too. Well, I say that. We both find them to be pleasantly roomy in our true sizes. And I think that’s how you want a linen pant to be.

How I Really Dressed Monday
aqua cotton modal t-shirt // linen straight leg crop pants // braided double strap sandals // similar belt // earrings // other jewelry is all old // the Native watch (use code KAYHRMS for 15% off) // Chantal beaded bracelet

That’s not the best photo, so I’ll share another. But that is how I really wore them in May. They’re such versatile pants. You can easily dress them up or down. I enjoy wearing them with heels. But you can also wear them with flats…even sneakers and a tee.

Linen Up for Summer
See this original post for details.

Sanctuary Casual Twist Neck Tee

In my search for the perfect t-shirts this year, I also came across this casual twist neck tee from Sanctuary. It’s a touch pricier than many of the tees I included in my T-Shirt Review, but I think the detailed neckline makes it worth the price. These are the kinds of details that really help elevate the simplest outfits.

twist neck cotton blend top in sea mist // military straight pants (similar option) // sandals or at J.Jill // necklace // demi bracelet // similar belt

I originally purchased the t-shirt in black, but then I ordered the white and this great sea mist blue, too. The tee does run large. I have a size small in all three.

the t-shirt in black // Madewell high waist mid length denim shorts // Good Days tee // similar wraps // earrings // necklace

No-Iron Linen Striped Shirt

I don’t know how they do it, but Chico’s produces this No-Iron Linen Striped Shirt from 100% linen…and it really doesn’t wrinkle…much…at all. Maybe they saturate it with starch??? I have no idea. PLUS it has odor fighting abilities. Wha???

Striped Linen Shirt
No-Iron Linen Striped Shirt // Kut from the Kloth Drawcord Waist Pants // Born Inlet Sandals and at J.Jill // sleeveless smocked top // earrings // Unika Watch

Chico’s sends me a lot of things for free, y’all. But I purchased this baby on my own. It’s that good. It runs true to size; I’m wearing a Chicos 1. I envision wearing this Linen Striped Shirt with these pants, white jeans and linen pants.

Kut from the Kloth Drawcord Waist Pants

I don’t have another picture to share, other than the one above, but these Kut from the Kloth Drawcord Waist Pants made my list, too. I wore them this past week, but I didn’t take photos because we were in the middle of moving. But they are oh so comfortable and fun to wear.

I have the Kut from the Kloth Drawcord Waist Pants in the flax color, but they have several other nice neutrals, too. They run true to size for a comfortable, roomy fit.

Anastasia Beverly Hills Dipbrow Pomade

Several readers and YouTube subscribers have asked what I’m using on my brows recently. I guess you gals can tell a difference. And honestly, I’m not sure that my brows have looked great every day. This Anastasia Beverly Hills Dipbrow Pomade takes some getting used to.

Anastasia Beverly Hills Dipbrow Pomade // Dual Ended Brush

This Dipbrow Pomade is very thick and pigmented, so a little goes a long ways. I received a sample of it as a gift with purchase, and I became hooked. I use the shade Taupe, but they have lots to choose from, and they give detailed information about what shades look best with your skin tones and hair. I do use a doubled ended brush to apply and brush it out a bit, but not the one shown above. I do think this Dual Ended Brush is what you need, though.

So yeah, I’m still working on perfecting my application. But I love the product and plan on using it indefinitely.

Leather Effortless Tote

I purchased this Leather Effortless Tote from Banana Republic through another blogger’s links. She was carrying it in a lighter shade that is no longer available. But I love the caramel color I have. It’s also available in black and rose gold (swoon!). I find myself reaching for this midsize Tote so often right now.

A-Line Patchwork Skirt
patchwork skirt (similar preppy pastel skirt and patchwork relaxed chino shorts) // cotton t-shirt // denim jacket // customized Alex pendant // bone leather Willow espadrille sandals (similar but more economical Eileen Fisher Viv wedges) // leather tote // earrings (another option) // Nordgreen Unika watch with white leather band (use code KAYHRMS for 15% off) // Sunglasses (same brand on sale)

That’s not a great picture of the bag, but it’s the best I have evidently. When I purchased the leather tote I was a little concerned that it wouldn’t hold much, being flat and all. But trust me, I cram plenty in there!

Dolce Vita Paily Braided Sandals

Finally, I’m really these Dolce Vita Paily Braided Sandals. I have them in cafe and in ivory. The chunky braids are really in right now, but this silhouette of shoe is just very flattering, too.

Duster Length Button Up Shirt
Wearing the ivory Dolce Vita Paily Braided Sandals // white jeans // cinched front tee // white eyelet long tunic // sandals // necklace – As seen in this video on my YouTube Channel

The strap across the top of the foot on this sandal is much more attractive on me than an ankle strap, which only accentuates my thick ankles. The sandal runs true to size and also comes in several other colors, including pink, yellow and denim.

Well, those are my ten favorites for May. Now let’s check out my readers’ favorites.

May Reader & Viewer Hottest Sellers

I thought it would be fun to start sharing the hottest selling items here at Dressed for My Day each month. Granted the analytics on these things is a little untrustworthy. I don’t know for sure what was purchased, but these are the items readers and YouTube viewers clicked through on and then made purchases.

So let me know if you bought any of these things and how they’re working for you. Please keep the comments gracious, but it’s certainly okay to let us know if you ended up needing to send something back because it didn’t work. I’d love to hear your take on fit and fabulousness!

#5 – Ann Taylor Pima Cotton V-Neck Tee

The Ann Taylor Pima Cotton V-Neck Tee received a good review in my white t-shirt review, and evidently it struck a chord with many of my readers. This is the tee that has a shirttail hem, and maybe that was something ladies were looking for.

Ann Taylor t-shirt
Ann Taylor Pima Cotton V-Neck Tee

Let me know if you purchased this tee and what you think about it. I’d love to hear.

White Tee with Jeans and a Blazer
The Ann Taylor Pima Cotton V-Neck Tee (online exclusive) // Madewell jeans (TTS) // flannel blazer (almost sold out) (similar option) // Everlane Loafers (TTS) // belt // necklace // earrings // demi bracelet // pearl bracelet // sunglasses

#4 – Banana Republic Supima V-Neck Tee

I’ve been singing the praises of the Banana Republic Supima V-Neck Tee for at least two years now, maybe three. So of course, I also gave it good marks in the white t-shirt review. I think they’ve actually added new color options in this Supima V-Neck Tee just recently. It used to just come in black, grey and white, but now it’s available also in coconut husk, a pretty blue, almond amaretto and other nice shades.

Banana Republic t-shirt
Banana Republic Supima V-Neck Tee

The tee used to run large, but I think they’ve adjusted it a bit. I find that it now runs true to size. I’ve actually held my earlier purchases of this tee up to my most recent ones, and there’s a definite size difference. At any rate, it runs true to size now; I’m wearing a medium.

White T-Shirt with Modern Jeans and Modern Blazer
Banana Republic Supima® Cotton V-Neck T-Shirt // Madewell jeans (TTS) // Everlane Fatigue Blazer in walnut // Everlane Loafers (TTS) // belt // necklace // earrings // demi bracelet // pearl bracelet // sunglasses

#3 – Talbots Relaxed Chinos

I love me a good pair of relaxed fit chinos. And evidently my readers and viewers do, too. I think I have a half a dozen pairs of these in various colors, but I do think these sand castle ones are my current favorites. I consider them a true classic khaki.

Soft Neutrals for Summer
relaxed chinos // sweater // Tory Burch Miller sandals (more economical option) // See the original post for more details.

I find the Talbots Relaxed Chinos to fit true to size. I’m wearing my normal 8. They also come in petite, plus and petite plus sizes. Oh, and right now they’re 30% off.

#2 – Colorful Cotton Canvas Skirt

Coming in at number 2, this darling Colorful Cotton Canvas Skirt from Talbots. I do love this skirt, too. I would have added it to my favorites, but I knew I’d be sharing it here in the reader favorites, so I saved it. Consider it my 12th fave!

A-Line Patchwork Skirt
patchwork skirt (similar preppy pastel skirt and patchwork relaxed chino shorts) // cotton t-shirt // denim jacket // customized Alex pendant // bone leather Willow espadrille sandals (similar but more economical Eileen Fisher Viv wedges) // leather tote // earrings (another option) // Nordgreen Unika watch with white leather band (use code KAYHRMS for 15% off) // Sunglasses (same brand on sale)

This darling patchwork skirt is vacation ready! Unfortunately it’s about sold out in misses sizes, but it’s still well stocked in petite fit. And I really think this similar preppy pastel skirt is just as darling. Both fit true to size (I tried the preppy pastel skirt on at the store).

Colorful A-Line Skirt with Soft Blue Sweatshirt
patchwork skirt (similar preppy pastel skirt and patchwork relaxed chino shorts) // soft blue sweatshirt // sidewalk sneakers // seeded hoop earrings // Nordgreen Unika watch with white leather band (use code KAYHRMS for 15% off) // Sunglasses (same brand on sale) // customized Alex pendant

I shared three ways to wear this skirt in this previous post. But I also showed it in my most recent video on mastering the front tuck.

#1 – Flutter Sleeve Peasant Dress

I’m surprised there are any of these Flutter Sleeve Peasant Dresses left! You ladies bought these things up like fresh peaches at a farmer’s market! I featured this darling Flutter Sleeve Peasant Dress in my video, How to Wear a White Dress this Summer. And it truly is a great little white summer dress.

Flutter Sleeve Peasant Dress // gold sandals // denim jacket // colorful seeded hoop earrings

This dress is actually also available in red, olive green and a pretty floral. It’s fun for a date night, vacation or backyard party with friends. It fits true to size. Let me know if you purchased one of these and how you like it. It is a bargain from Target.

Well, that’s a wrap! My favorites and follower faves, too. I hope you enjoyed this little monthly review. Let me know if you like hearing about the top sellers or not. I’d love the feedback.

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Blessed for My Day

It’s one thing to be a woman who normally speaks graciously and softly and quite another to be someone who is able to respond consistently in the same way. I can be a mild mannered, soft-spoken woman most days. But if you push enough of my buttons, I’m likely to snap. That’s the truth, but I’m also constantly working on this flaw.

The Bible teaches us that when we retaliate by raising our voice or biting back with harsh words we only stoke the fires of an already heated discussion. But we can actually turn down the temperature with a “soft answer.” I think a soft answer would include both gracious words and a gentle voice. That doesn’t mean we have to be silent. Nor do we have to take verbal abuse from someone. But we can learn to speak both truth and our opinion with grace and a soft tone.

A soft answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger. ~ Proverbs 15:1

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xoxo, Kay
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29 thoughts on “Our May 2021 Favorites

  1. I drove about 25 miles each way to get the pink patchwork skirt from Talbots! It’s beautiful. I also got relaxed chinos and the denim front tie shirt that Talbots paired the skirt with on the catalog. Thank you for your posts and videos on wardrobe planning, style quiz, and resources like the worksheets. So helpful!!!! Please share your faves on the 2021 Nordy sale, especially classic and timeless pieces and beauty products.

  2. I loved your research on white tee shirts. I purchased the one at Talbots. I was too late for the pink patchwork skirt which is adorable on you. I am really enjoying your wednesday videos so much…I look forward to them every week. Congratulations on your new home, too!

  3. I enjoyed your front tuck video, but have a question. When is a full tuck preferable to a front tuck and vice versa?

  4. Hi, Kay —
    I’m not sure why you say you are not a feminist. Do you believe in social, economic, and political equality of the sexes? That is the definition of feminism! I certainly get the impression that you would support your daughter’s equal rights. I am not trying to start a big political discussion on a fashion blog. Just something to think about.

    1. Hi Julia. Unfortunately what started as a women’s rights movement was later hijacked by a group of extremists who seem more intent on bashing men than simply creating an environment for true equality. I am completely for equality in the workplace and in society in general. I’m for women’s voices being heard and taken seriously. I own and run my own business and expect to be treated with dignity. But I just don’t identify with the more extreme group that demands quotas and retribution. And as a Christian and Bible teacher I believe that while men and women are created equally in every way, I also believe we have different and distinct roles to play in our world and our homes.

      1. One thing to be remembered is many of the liberties and rights women enjoy now are because of the sweat of “extremest” women. While I’m not a proponent of extremist behavior, women shouldn’t forget, that not long ago they were once subjects of their fathers, husbands, brothers, and sons. While women have come along way there is much more road to be traveled. Just ask my friend how she feels, who was recently widowed and not included in some social situations because she didn’t have a husband. Or my daughter who is grossly underpaid compared to her male counterparts.

  5. Kay,
    I bought the Ann Taylor V-Neck tee with shirttail hem in white & black & I really love them. The fabric has a beautiful soft hand. Not see thru. Excellent quality! I love them. Thank you for the recommendation.

  6. I bought the patchwork skirt – so cute! I love it and so does my husband and adult daughter 🙂

    I also bought the banana republic white tee, and you are right, it’s perfect!

  7. Hi Kay!
    I purchased the cinched v-neck tee, the Talbots Hampshire ankle pant, and the linen straight leg crops. I love your blog and YouTube videos! You give so many great ideas on how to combine pieces! And I really find the size information helpful. Thank you!

  8. I was needing to replace a couple of white t shirts and purchased the Banana Republic Supima Cotton ones based on your recommendation and they are just as great as you said!! Love them, Kay, thank you!

  9. Although it’s not one of your listed favorites, I bought the Talbots patio red side tie shift dress after seeing it on you. It’s a great dress; fit is true to size. My husband liked it on me, and my 10-year-old granddaughter told me that it’s a really pretty dress. I wore it to church with wedge sandals, but am planning to wear it to a picnic with tennis shoes like your picture, so I think it’s a versatile dress. I am long-waisted and wear petites; usually petite dresses with defined waists are too short-waisted on me, but the side tie works really well and isn’t short-waisted on me.

    1. Great to hear. I do love that dress too. I just haven’t actually worn it anywhere yet. ? But I’m definitely taking it on my little vacation with me.

  10. Kay, My stand on the feminist movement and my stand that men and omen are equal but e have different roles is the same as yours. Great response!!

  11. I hope they bring the patchwork skirt back! I love it but missed it! I just ordered the white and black T-shirt’s from Ann Taylor and may order the Banana Republic as we’ll. They are such staple items! Thank you for all you do for us!

  12. I was able to get the patchwork skirt, but the white cinched T shirt sold out of the small and x-small too quickly.
    So if anyone has that size, I NEED it….

  13. Love, love my Nordgreen watch!! I purchased one with 3 bands, gold, black, camel. Also, I purchased Talbot’s relaxed chinos. Again, love them.

  14. Love the cinched tee from Loft, Kay! Local store did not carry in petites (I usually wear PM), but I liked the fit of the regular small and bought the only one left, grey. Immediately ordered white & hazelnut. Looking forward to wearing the hazelnut with my white denim Loft skirt that has brownish buttons down front. Tee is perfect length with no tuck needed!! I appreciate your Christian values, beliefs about women & men & your forthright yet kind manner of explaining why. That, your BFMDs & your modern classic style make you my favorite gal to follow. I look forward to your posts & videos like visits with a friend. Thank you and keep up the great work! May God bless you and your husband in your new home!

      1. Thanks Kay for your quick reply. I will check out White House- Black Market. I’m new here and so glad I joined you.

    1. For a budget friendly pair, I found some in petite at Old Navy Outlet mall a couple years ago. Not sure what they have now, but they’ve been a good pair.

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