Economy of Style
A notebook on evolving trends, fashion sense and cents

4 Cool Styling Tips For Your Matching Outfits

It’s no secret. I love a matching outfit. You saw me style my current favorite  two-piece set 4 different ways (see that post here). Well, I’ve since purchased another one. I deemed this new set a valuable addition because the color/print as well as the wide leg trousers add something fresh to my wardrobe. Follow along for 4 styling tips I rely on to make sure my matching outfits don’t overwhelm me.

two piece matching outfit

What I’m Wearing:

Matching outfit (Shirt | Bottom) | Sandals

1. Pay special attention to fit.

This particular matching outfit is from Pretty Little Thing (get $30 off your first order of $80 or more with my code). I’ve consistently been a size 2 on top and size 4 on the bottom. In this matching outfit, though, I needed a 6 on the bottom. Also, the pants were initially way too long on me, so I altered them. Improving the overall fit, improved the overall look.

matching outfit

2. Adjust the sleeves to suit the style situation

Simply choosing to roll up the sleeves on a blouse changes the vibe. Cuffing can make an outfit more casual and even more hip. So, roll ’em up when the situation calls for it.

matching outfit

3. Break up the print on your set by knotting the top

Feeling overwhelmed by a print-on-print set? You have many options for breaking up the print. One of my favorites is knotting the top to allow a peek at the midriff. It’s subtly sexy and lets people see that your outfit isn’t a jumpsuit and actually comprises two separate pieces.

matching outfit

4. Create a plunging neckline

I love sets with button-up blouses. That little details offers all kinds of styling opportunities. One of those is the chance to create a plunging neckline. Perhaps you want to show off your layered necklaces or just show a little skin, leaving a few buttons undone is a neat styling trick.

matching outfit

Location: Dunaway Books, South Grand, St. Louis

How To Create A Faux Jumpsuit With Separates

I’ve been enjoying all the benefits of two piece outfits lately (see evidence here). I love how pulled together co-ords look. I’m also a huge fan of their versatility. As someone who loves to make a statement in a jumpsuit, I also appreciate that matching sets can create the look of a jumpsuit (the faux jumpsuit) without all the fuss of a jumpsuit.

To demonstrate, I’m pairing some white shorts with a top in the same color. Faux jumpsuit magic ensues.

faux jumpsuit

What I’m wearing:

Top (on sale) | Shorts | Sandals c/o | Bag (similar, similar, similar) | Sunglasses

faux jumpsuit

This was an outfit I wore on Memorial Day Weekend. What better way to celebrate the unofficial start to summer than in all white?

faux jumpsuit

Saw my post on fabulous, affordable shorts yesterday? This pair was featured in that round-up. These high-waist, paper bag style shorts are only $34.99. The construction and cotton/linen blend fabric make them look super expensive.

I knew immediately that I wanted the shorts and that I would wear them with a fitted top (tucked in). The top options were plentiful, from tube tops to off-the-shoulder tops. This criss cross neck top (now on sale) was a winner, though, because its color was a near perfect match for the shorts. And, the result? I get the look of a romper without the fuss of a romper.

How To Rock The Overalls Trend As A Grown-Up

Real talk. The last time I rocked overalls, I was a child. In the last few years, though, the overalls trend has been picking up steam. I’ve seen such cool stylings of overalls that I’ve been inspired to try them. When I was I pulling pieces for my recent Kindred collaboration (check out my fabulous flare jeans here), I spotted today’s featured overalls. They were perfect.

There are a variety of overalls styles to choose from–different silhouettes, different fabrics, and difference lengths. I was drawn to this one because it gave me right-on-trend, utility jumpsuit vibes.

overalls trend

What I’m wearing:

Overalls via Kindred | Sunglasses via Kindred | Shirt (similar) | Sandals (similar)

overalls trend

To give these overalls a grown-up flair, I paired them with a grown-up classic–a crisp white button down shirt. I must give honorable mentions, though, to the options I considered before deciding on the button down. A white off-the-shoulder tee also paired well with the overalls. A white tube top looked good as well.

I wore the overalls with flat sandals, but a high-heeled pair would take the look to new style heights. So, what do you say? Will you be embracing the comeback of the overalls trend?

Shop the overalls trend:

All The Jumpsuits You Need To See

Jumpsuit season is here! So, I thought I would continue sharing some of the best jumpsuits I’ve seen so far. Be sure to check out the widget at the end of the post.

To celebrate the style season, I’m rocking one of the best jumpsuits I’ve ever purchased. It’s a halter style with a wide leg bottom. The combination of the silhouette and checked print had me at first sight. It’s a Tracy Reese style made for Anthropologie. Anyone else keep an eye out of for Anthro styles by this designer? I sure do, but there aren’t any new options yet.

best jumpsuits

What I’m wearing:

Tracy Reese jumpsuit via Anthropologie (shop the style I got this year here)

Shop the best jumpsuits:

Now Is The Right Time For Polka Dots!

Polka dots are a timeless classic that I’m sure we all enjoy spotting among trends year after year. In 2019, the trend has resurged. This time, though, it’s shaking its retro vibe and embracing a modern flavor. We’re seeing polka dots on transparent pieces. We’re eying dots on statement sleeves. My favorite, though, are polka dot jumpsuits.

polka dot jumpsuits

What I’m wearing:

Jumpsuit (I’m wearing a size S) | Belt bag (convertible) | Sandals (want these) | Sunglasses

polka dot jumpsuits

I was immediately drawn to today’s featured jumpsuit because of its silhouette. It has a fitted smocked top and a wide leg bottom. I’m also smitten by the mixed dot pattern (see another cool way to mix dots here). It’s subtle, but the dot pattern on the top is smaller than that on the bottom. Love that detail!

polka dot jumpsuits

Now, this jumpsuit comes with adjustable spaghetti straps (see the style AS IS here). When I saw it online, though, I could only envision wearing it strapless. So, I cut the straps off as soon I got it. Of course, if you like having the option of wearing it both ways, it’s possible to simply tuck the straps. I decided to commit.

polka dot jumpsuits

The jumpsuit fits true to size. I’m wearing a size small. True story, I was so disappointed when I first tried it on because I thought it was a pull-on style, and it wouldn’t go past my hips. Silly me, though, it has a side zip, which makes it easy to get on and off without help.

To add to the modern vibe of this polka dot jumpsuit, I wore it with my Gucci belt bag. Can you believe the belt bag trend is still holding strong? I’m thrilled that it is because a belt bag makes outfits that much cooler with the added bonus of a hands-free experience. That’s a fashion win-win.

If you think polka dot jumpsuits are a great way to embrace the dot trend as well, check out all the cool styles at the end of this post.

Shop polka dot jumpsuits: