Wardrobe Update: July 2018

So, here’s the deal: I’ve been discontent with my wardrobe lately. There’s a lot in there that isn’t quite where I want my 30-something-year-old closet to be. (Jewelry and accessories excluded; I’m really good at picking pieces with longevity there.) Plus, I’ve been growing tired of the shapeless dresses I tend to gravitate toward. I still appreciate a shift dress’ ability to be a blank canvas for jewelry and it’s a godsend on nothing-to-wear days when you just need something easy, but I get that it’s not the most flattering on me. (To be completely honest, another reason I love those so much is a long, emotional answer wrought with insecurities that I don’t really want to spell out here, but is fodder for a future post.) So, I’ve been putting more cash toward a wardrobe refresh that feels more grown up and shows off the best parts of my body. (#WaistAndBooty #SoVain) My favorite piece of the month was an unexpected hit: this body-con tank dress. It’s such a sexy little number without trying too hard. It looks cute with sandals or sneakers, but it can be easily dressed up for the office with a jacket and heels. For next month, I’m crushing on two things at the moment: this skirt (assuming it ever comes back in my size) and this ultra trendy bag (I’d be on board with an inspired-by version, too, but I do have qualms about doing that with a small designer). Add my beloved black sweater and flats, and we have an outfit that I’d wear all autumn long. I’m also still contemplating these pretty kitten heel pumps. What about you? I’d love to know what’s on your fall wish list!

PURCHASED
See all of this year’s sartorial additions here.

Madewell tiered tank in black ($30) – I bought the pink version last month and loved it so much that I wanted to add the black to my wardrobe, too. It’s really cute with an a-line black mini skirt and kind of has the effect of being a tiered mini dress.
Free People ‘French Quarter’ ruffled wrap dress in yellow ($64) – This is such a pretty and feminine dress! The fabric is substantial enough where it doesn’t feel like the slightest breeze will lift the wrap panel. I ordered it in two sizes to try and liked the extra coverage of the larger one. I bought the yellow version, which is available in a couple of sizes here.
Hunter quilted gloss Chelsea boot ($100) – Chelsea boots are out of my sartorial comfort zone, but I wanted to try these when they were part of the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale. They’re a nice alternative to tall wellies and they look pretty cute with jeans. The ankle is tight, which makes them difficult to get on and off without tugging at the loop. I don’t mind the temporary annoyance when it means they’re not overly wide and boxy.
Leith wrap dress in navy ($38) – This dress is incredibly body-conscious and incredibly sexy. I ordered my regular size medium and found it a bit too body-hugging and ordered a large, which was entirely too big. After going back and forth, I decided to keep the medium for now. I’ve been losing weight, so another ten pounds will be perfect.
Leith body-con tank dress in black ($56) – After ordering the aforementioned dress, I bought the crewneck version to try. The fabric is more like a t-shirt material, unlike the other dress which is stretchier, so I preferred sizing up for this. It’s really cute with flat sandals for a casual look, but can easily be dressed up.
WAYF sleevless blouson midi dress in stripe ($50) – This was such an unexpected hit! I loved the colors of the striped version and ordered it on a whim, half expecting it to go back. Instead, I loved it. The fit in my regular size is perfect and I love the figure-flattering nipped-in waist and v-neckline.
H&M striped sweater ($40) – This sweater looks so much more expensive than it is! I love it paired with denim shorts or jeans.

DIDN’T WORK OUT
Things I tried and didn’t love.

H&M cropped pants in floral – I thought I’d try a new silhouette and totally missed the mark with these short, boxy pants. If you’re slim, though, try them! They were cute!
H&M v-neck cami in black – This was fine, but I have one that’s similar and didn’t think it was worth spending money to keep this one.
Zara dark floral fit-and-flare dress – The lining didn’t lay correctly, but it was a pretty dress otherwise. I didn’t care for how much fabric was in the skirt and would have preferred something less full.
Zara diamond sweater – I bought this as a ride-along piece for the dress above and hated the slightly cropped fit.
J.Crew linen wrap dress in black – This is really pretty, but I just couldn’t get the fit right for my bust in multiple sizes.