Floral, Gingham, & Stripes: Fun Updates for Casual Days

This simple blue and white tiled print looks great with your favorite white bottoms (jeans, shorts, pants, an easy skirt all work) and can play with color, like yellow or coral really nicely. And, of course, the draped wrap neckline just makes it. If you look closely at the image (you can zoom in further through the ‘shop it’ button) you’ll see there is a small snap that the model is not using. So, you can snap it up for a more covered up look or leave it unsnapped – we’d suggest wearing a cami under it this way. It’s great with a statement necklace that uses some color and plays into the open neckline. The shirttail hem makes it easy to leave the back untucked for a relaxed look that also covers your bum. If you prefer a sleeve, Velvet’s deeper blue patterned peasant top is a sure win.

Vince’s simplicity always wins us over, in an easy fit (XXS-XL) meant for any age to feel great in. Unlike many simple maxi dresses, this one eases out from the hips down so it doesn’t cling and accentuates the waist. (Petite ladies: this is still a very simple hemming process for any local tailor.) Its space-dye stripe breaks up the simple lines of the dress making it even more flattering than the silhouette already was. Add your favorite flat sandals or wedges for a casual look. You can also layer a cardigan or scarf for a little flare – and coverage in the air conditioning.

Joie has been doing this body for a few years now because it is just too flattering to stop. And this picture doesn’t do it justice – it’s so flattering for curvy or straighter figures. We like to replace the thin fabric belt with a leather one for added depth and waist definition. This new print is a great color combination for all skin tones and works with any shade of brown, neutral or metallic sandals – white sneakers are casually cute, too. Since it’s not a full maxi length to the ground, even more petite women can wear it without needing a hem.

Three Dots uses tie-dye to create a summery stripe on this dress that has all the qualifications for a great weekend staple. The elastic waist isn’t too narrow so it cinches smoothly and defines the waist, allowing the top to easily fold over so it doesn’t cling around the midsection. It also has a drawstring detail for added style, so you don’t need to add your own belt. This dress is even double layered so it lies smoothly without clinging to any imperfections – and, you don’t need to worry about it being see-through. Throw on your favorite sandals or flips flop in any neutral or metallic, and you are ready to enjoy the day.

From XS to XL, this Tory Burch modern-fitting t-shirt dress is so versatile. It’s relaxed and easy for a day of errands or brunch, but its black global print elevates the style so it can take you right to a casual dinner – or even a stop in to the office on a weekend or a casual Friday. It’s not always easy to find a t-shirt dress with a sleeve that also provides shape, as this one does with the drawstring waist.

It can be even harder to find a dress with a sleeve that is still casual and lightweight for spring and summer. Anthropologie’s chambray dress is soft and easy in both regular and petite, up to XL so it’s an easy alternative for every shape on a casual day. The shirttail hem is a little longer in the back, providing a stylish way to give a little extra coverage in the back. The embroidered feather print on the super soft lyocell fabric provides just enough interest to step it up from a basic denim dress. It looks great with light brown sandals or espadrilles.

The Breton stripe often pops up in the beginning of spring, and this season, it’s really having a moment. The Breton stripe is actually inspired by the uniform of French navy seaman in Brittany in the mid 1800’s, and is used in all kinds of ways in fashion. There are lots of wonderful options this season – hooded, sleeveless, and linen - choose your favorite. But do be sure to choose one. This timeless stripe will never disappoint. We’re featuring Kate Spade’s version because the tie-up neckline and shirttail hem elevate this top from a basic tee, and we like the more substantial weight of the fabric. The fit is modern and easy, up to XXL. It’s perfect for a cool evening by the lake or ocean with jeans or white pants. The navy is our top pick for its timeless feel, and you’ll find a soft red through the ‘shop it’ button, as well.

Vince delivers – don’t they always? - with one of the freshest prints of the season. The ikat pattern is done in a crisp white and their take on Pantone’s color of the season (marsala), for a rich blend of color that feels so sophisticated in the warmer months. This cool paint-stroke print comes in a beautifully easy blouse and blue, too. They can all be worn with jeans, shorts, cotton pants or capris in white, khaki, olive, or denim. Note: The tee has a nice weight and beautiful hand – the quality is apparent – but is a somewhat trimmer fit than much of Vince’s drapier silhouettes.

We can’t pass up a good floral this season, especially J.Crew’s version in this beautifully neutral palette – a great way for a non-flowery lady to try some flowers. The fit is easy and loose with a nice drape, in XXXS-XL. Pair it with a neutral denim or black pants for a casual day at the office (you can even add a blazer). You can also punch it up with some colorful shorts for a day of summer fun.

Nic + Zoe always makes strong statements in color and knits, and this open cardigan reflects that with a pretty blue/yellow combination that evokes a stripe. The easy fit looks good in all the sizes it’s offered in, XS to XL, especially since it can be worn a couple of different ways. In the picture shown, the draped loop neckline is just worn behind the neck, creating an easy open cardigan that can be worn with a simple white tee or tank (you can also play up the blue with the coordinating tank top). Alternatively, you can cross the draped neckline in front before looping it over your head for more coverage – click through the ‘shop it’ button to see the 2nd image, where this is shown. Either way, this cotton blend sweater is a great summer weight for air-conditioning or a cool evening outside. We're sending you to Nordstrom through the 'shop it' button, but Zappos has it, too, if your size is already sold out.

Tory Burch’s adorably inventive stripe is just perfect for a summer tote. Big enough to hold everything you’ll need for a summer day (laptop and papers to get some work done, or a towel and newspaper to read in the park) in vinyl that is easy to take care of. The colors in the stripe go with everything and reflect all the best colors of this season, so you’ll be able to wear it everyday.

In the spring and summer, we often find ourselves in a simple tee or t-shirt dress and could use a little pop of color. This infinity scarf from pistil is super soft, a great price, and a beautiful minty shade. It also comes in a denim-friendly blue, through the 'shop it' button. The bird and dot pattern combination is whimsical and modern. Loop it twice around your neck for an instant style update to any simple outfit.