Sometimes I over complicate putting together outfits. Can I get a witness? 🙋♀️ Usually I notice that I’m doing that when getting dressed becomes harder and less enjoyable. That’s when I step back from the process and evaluate my starting point. If I start my outfits with basic pieces like a great pair of black pants and a simple white tee or tank I’m much more likely to like the completed outfit than if I try to start with accessories, shoes or even a completer piece in mind. So today I’m sharing a few spring outfits starting with black and white at the base.
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I always think one of the challenges with a black and white outfit is keeping it from looking like a waiter’s uniform. Ha! Anybody else think that way? But I don’t believe anyone will mistake you for a waiter if you top your black pants and white tee or tank with a seasonal white linen blazer.
It bears repeating, I wear this simple but oh so summery white linen blazer more than any other completer piece each summer. I’ve had this one for at least five years now, so at this point I’m paying pennies per wear. I find it to run true to size, and yes, I did try on the new version and it’s very similar.
I love duplicating the same color in my top and completer piece. That double whammy of a color or neutral is so effective and effortlessly chic.
I completed this simple black and white outfit with black strappy sandals (also available in flats), my tri-neutral satchel bag and simple gold jewelry.
Oh and I did add that modern pearl bracelet at my wrist. It’s more than 50% off!
The outfit above is perfect for a spring or summer work day in the office. But I’d also wear it out to lunch or even for church. The next couple of looks I created starting with black and white are more casual, but still just as pulled together and chic. I created all three looks with my classic Kate trousers from J.Crew.
These classic, straight leg trousers are made in a four-season stretch fabric that moves beautifully with you and keeps its shape with wear. I love them so much…I purchased them recently in grey, too! They’re also available in navy and camel. So of course you can create all of these looks with those other neutrals as well.
So like I said, the next two looks that started with black and white are much more casual and sporty, but still very eye-appealing.
First I swapped out the white linen blazer for a trending utility jacket (similar). I forget about this casual jacket far too often. And really utility blazers (and pants and skirts and dresses!) continue to trend big for 2023. Mine is from last year, but this one is a similar option in green and this camel field jacket is another great option. In fact, I’ll share several other nice utility and field jackets in the shopping widget below.
I love the juxtaposition of the utility jacket (similar) with the black sandals in the look above. But below I swapped out the heels for my black Converse sneakers (size down full size) for an even more casual look.
The outfit above is one I would definitely wear out to eat for a casual dinner with my husband and friends. And the look below is not unlike it. I’m wearing the white tank (another option) and black pants with a denim jacket. This is my new lighter wash Levi’s Original Trucker jacket. It runs true to size.
I actually love the combination of black with blue denim. Add that splash of white and it creates such a classic, casual trio. This time I completed the look with my gold metallic sandals. That’s definitely a great outfit for dinner at a diner or even a backyard cookout in spring.
I’m making a point these days to think simple when I walk into my closet. When I start an outfit with a classic pairing like black and white I find that the possibilities truly are endless and effortlessly chic. Thanks so much for stopping in today. You can shop the looks through the links above and through the shopping widget below.
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Blessed for My Day
We are living in a time when it is vital for each believe to be strong and courageous. We must be willing to live differently, speak out, hold firm to the truth and walk to the beat of a unique drum. Every day we face multiple temptations to just blend in, stay quiet, sit back or even jump on board what we know to be a train going in the wrong direction. I’ve discovered that I must do a few essential things in order to have the kind of courage I need to live well for the Lord.
I have to gather with other believers on a regular basis. When I stay out of church for too long, I begin to feel isolated in my beliefs and I lose my courage to hold firm to them. I also have to meditate on Scripture every day. I hear so many faulty messages without even trying; if I don’t drink in a steady diet of truth I run the risk of watering down my convictions to fit in with the world. And I have to ask God daily to give me the courage to stand alone when necessary and with my fellow believers when possible. What are you doing to stay strong and courageous?
Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous! Do not be terrified nor dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go. ~ Joshua 1:9
Sing it, Sister! Sometimes in an effort to put together something special, we get decision fatigue and end up reaching for something that that doesn’t hit the mark at all. (Remember calling a friend in high school to ask what THEY were wearing to the dance?) Every one of your outfits can be easily recreated if we concentrate on buying the best-fitting and quality basics that we can depend on for most occasions. That is what real life is about. Thanks Kay!
i liked your BFMD. I firmly believe we are in the latter days. AI is frightening technology and fits in with things Revelation talks about. Exciting times!
One of the greatest things we can do in our lives and ministry to others is to be an encourager.
His word brings life and hope to every situation. Blessings Maree.