My Destination for Stripes – Chance

Part of my capsule wardrobe in the summer is the classic navy and white stripe long-sleeve top. And it was last year when Julia Leach launched her online clothing company Chance that I fell in love with her concept – focusing on simplicity, quality design, adventure and personal style. After purchasing the classic boat neck stripe top (seen above), I wore it out wearing it incessantly. Consequently I purchased three this year to make sure I always had one on hand.

While stripes are the foundation of her business (found on short-sleeve tees, camis, dresses, etc), she also offers many other summer essentials, but one can never go wrong with stripes. Shop here.

~This year’s acquisition~

Images via Chance and Simply Luxurious Instagram.

Two Summer Style Must-Haves

When shopping for items to add to my capsule wardrobe, two things are the most important when it comes to making a decision: quality and versatility. With travel on my mind this summer as Paris is calling my name again and always looking for items that can transition well from day to evening, Karen Scofield’s chic, quality, yet understated designs caught my attention immediately. Her London label, Lucza exceeded my expectations and I’m excited to share with you my two personally selected items and then give you an opportunity to shop her designs with an exclusive limited opportunity.

~Dress – Lucza Gigi Racerback Maxi, Scarf – Oscar de la Renta (similar here), sandals – BCBG MaxAzria (similar here), Sunglasses – Chloe~

~Dress – Lucza Clare dress in navy, Trench – J.Crew, Boots – Hunter, Watch – Michael Kors (similar here)~

Savings Opportunity: Shop Lucza today (June 12th) through Sunday, June 30th and save 10% off the entire website using promo code SIMPLYLUCZA.

~Full Disclosure: Lucza gifted me with the Gigi maxi dress: however, I hand-selected each of the items and my opinions are my own. All photos property of The Simply Luxurious Life.

Style Inspiration: The Last Days of Summer

With Labor Day weekend about upon us here in the states, and the signifying of the unofficial end to summer, do keep in mind that summer isn’t over yet. Pull off the hanger that summer dress you love to wear, those sandals that display your magnificent pedicure and indulge in oodles of summer white. Here’s a bit of inspiration . . .

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Style Inspiration: Shorts, Stripes, Leopard & Blue

A little bit of everything has been captured this week as summer continues to inspire creativity when it comes to fashion. Stripes are always a classic choice worn with something more trendy or different, and blue being such a tranquil hue can be worn in so many different ways depending upon your skin tone. As for leopard, I personally never tire of leopard and it seems the fashion world thinks along the same lines as it serves as a classic staple, but also adds that extra pop of attention when worn. Last but not least, shorts. This summer has the been the first of many summers where I have thoroughly embraced this stylish addition to my wardrobe. Worn casually for day or at night with a fabulous pair of stiletto peep-toes, they really can be worn just about anywhere. Think about changing the texture to set the right tone and choose a length that flatters your leg the best. For me, mid-thigh seems to do the trick.

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Style Inspiration: Summer Skirts & Maxi Dresses

Summer is the perfect time to pull out your dresses and skirts and mix and match to your delight. Maxi dresses and skirts are always a comfortable way to vacation, travel, and look glamorous wherever you might be going. However, any dress or skirt, no matter what the length, can always use a signature belt – large or small. And because it is summer, treat yourself to a pedicure and wear some fun sandals to finish the look. Enjoy, have fun and know you’ll be sure to be comfortable and forever stylish.

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Style Inspiration: A Touch of Blue

Blue in its myriad of possible shades is always a wonderful choice whether the season is summer, winter, spring or fall, and as we are in the height of summer, a crisp navy, cobalt or tiffany blue is always a perfect idea. With its tranquil hue, reminding us of the waters that can soothe, change and bring about growth and beauty, so too can the classic choice of the denim. Use denim as your anchor piece and add playful other summer time choices. Have a look at such ideas as well as other colors I couldn’t help but include this week.

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Style Inspiration: Blazers & Pastels

The thermometer is creeping ever upward which calls for more cool attire that reflects the sun and keeps the fashionista cool and comfortable; however, evenings can still be chilly, so having a blazer handy is a perfect way to layer and maintain a chic look. Pastels tend to be ubiquitous this time of year, so mix them up with classic basics to remain on trend, but still adhere to your own signature style.

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Style Inspiration: Shorts & Boyfriend Jeans

Shorts have been trending during the past few summers as a way to blend style with function. So last weekend, since I was fortunate to find some time to stop into my favorite consignment shop in Portland, I decided to look for an extra pair of shorts for the summer. I beamed when I discovered a pair of Hugo Boss ‘Hanomi’ black stretch cotton shorts ($39 – I’m telling you, shop consignment first). Paired with black peep-toe pumps and a delicious blouse, a perfect summer date attire is complete. Of course, I had to continue perusing the store, because you never know what may be hidden on the racks just waiting for you to find it. Well, I found the perfect summer evening dress for my upcoming travels to Paris and London, so . . .  I splurged.

Another piece of clothing that I love to wear during the summer months are boyfriend jeans – a little loose, sometimes worn or with tears, paired with heels and a sweater, the balance of sophistication and casual is ideal for cool summer evenings.

Along with ways to wear both of these styles, I’ve also included in this week’s Style Inspiration a few other images that I thought you might enjoy. You will notice that fashion blogger Hedvig Opshaug appears three different times, but I couldn’t help including her as her style never ceases to inspire me. Anyway, have a lovely Thursday everyone and enjoy the journey of becoming your own best stylist.

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