Bee has WAY more money than I do. In fact, my guess is that she has way more money than I’ll ever have. But her outfits always seem incredibly re-create-able to me. She layers like a master, piles on the funky costume jewelry, and wears colors with bold abandon. Her blog may look a bit like a fashion mag editorial, but it feels less intimidating somehow.

And she’s a constant source of inspiration to me. Take a peek at Atlantic-Pacific.

It’s Saturday night! Why not groove your body to “Eyeoneye” by Andrew Bird?

This week, I got a comment from reader Meghan that made me realize it might be time again to clarify a few things, especially regarding these link roundups!

Here’s how the Lovely Links work: I post links to thought-provoking and interesting articles I’ve found (or been sent) over the course of the week. Many of them clash with things I’ve said myself or linked to in the past because I am constantly mulling and reevaluating what I think and feel about these important topics. This may strike some folks as hypocritical, but that’s fine by me. Human beings are naturally contradictory beings, and anyone who claims to be 100% free of hypocrisy is kidding herself. Plenty of what I think and feel – both on and off this blog – could be considered hypocritical by others, and I’m quite comfortable with that.

This blog is about the intersection of body image and style. Some posts will lean more in one direction than the other, obviously, but my overall interest is to show where the two overlap. Some aspects of personal style aren’t 100% harmonious with the quest to cultivate positive body image, and vice versa. I think that’s just fine. It’s not my intention to be eternally consistent or singularly focused. It’s my intention to be exploratory of two topics that have some fascinating and beneficial common ground.

Because the bottom line is that I don’t see the options as either “style” or “empowerment.” I refuse to accept that I am not allowed to praise Hillary Clinton for shunning fashion yet remain interested in fashion myself. In my view, there is no one right way to be a strong woman. I won’t choose sides or make up my mind because that would mean I have stopped thinking critically about the issues that mean the most to me.

Now, on with the linkage!

* * * * *

Comments and compliments can get dicey in so many ways, but the philosophy of commenting on the things people DO instead of the things that they ARE is an interesting one.

You know you’re curious about the secret sexy life of zippers. (Via Final Fashion.)

Oh, how I love a slinky red dress with a drapey skirt.

As a fan of the “fake it till ya make it” philosophy, I loved this summary: “It’s about meeting situations that you feel intimidated by head-on, telling yourself that you’re ready for them, and putting I-can-DO-this intentions out there, until you’ve done such a good job convincing yourself that you suddenly can handle the challenge before you.”

Neutral color mixes can look marvelously sophisticated, as Natasha proves with her slate gray and olive green ensemble.

I haven’t seen the film yet, but still loved this post showcasing looks inspired by “The Avengers.”

Marzipan asks how do we begin to address the insidious nature of sizeism and weight stigma in our daily lives?

I’m working up the courage to do hot pink and neon yellow, but Shen has beaten me to it. Beautifully.

I’ve heard a lot of buzz about the Body Image Voice app, and it seems like an utterly amazing idea. The one thing I can’t seem to figure out is HOW this conversation will reach beyond the app/website and to advertisers and media folks, as promised. Anyone know?

This roundup of Cate Blanchett’s 12 most stylish roles just reinforces her status as style icon.

The You Look Fab crew has been discussing the merits of Shopping Your Closet. Definitely a great practice.

Mint and orange are great partners in flavor, possibly even better in an outfit!

Men’s body image issues often get overlooked or suppressed, so The Good Men Project is launching a conversation. If you or someone you know has a story to contribute, click here. I just heard about this over the weekend so it’s a quick-turn deadline by now – sorry!

Are you cultivating your own private beauty myth?

Alison shares her picks for swimwear designed to flatter a large bust and/or a soft belly.

I know runway fashion can seem so remote, but posts like this runway to real life series are great reminders that those looks can provide ideas and applicable inspiration.

Holy moly, do I ever want to raid the closet of Grown and Curvy Woman. (Via You Look Fab)

Found this older braided scarf tie tutorial via Pinterest, and am just dying to try it.

Cambridge researcher and modeling agency owner Ben Barry explains that different populations and demographics react differently to idealized versions of beauty, and that some groups are more likely to relate to and purchase from brands that use a diverse group of models.

And from the Department of Random: It’s a Hey Jude flowchart. Na na na naaaaaaaaa!

Some of you may wear actual, formal uniforms for work or school, but the uniform I’m thinking of here has a bit more leeway. We’ve all got certain combinations of garments that form the foundations of our dressing practices. In winter, I do long cardigan, tunic, leggings, and boots many days of the week. In summer, dress and pumps.

What are your uniforms? Why do they work? Is it important to you to vary what you wear and avoid your uniform at times? If so, why? If not, why not?

*In this late-night feature – which will run Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday of each week – I’ll gather up three fun items that are currently on sale online and share them with you! I would LOVE suggestions: Stylish wide-width pumps? Classic v-necked sweaters? Chandelier earrings? Petite dress slacks? What would you like to see featured?*

Jori requested a few picks for wide waistband full skirts – ones that look like this – so here we go:

Poplin Full Skirt – was $108, now $81

Wow. This one is calling to me, friends. Between the wide waistband, the sassy full skirt, and those inverted pleats this is just about my favorite skirt silhouette. Available in sizes 2 -16 in stone, some sizes sold out in this blue but available in July, and only size 6 in solid black.

Jones New York Pleated Skirt – was $131, now $91.20

This silhouette isn’t quite as voluminous as the first option, but still has the swingy fun of a full skirt. This is a very office-friendly style and color, but would work equally well with a cute tee or absolutely anything nautically themed. Available in sizes 4 – 16.

Anne Klein Pleated Skirt – was $99, now $79

This floaty little number might be a bit fancier than Jori was hoping for, but it could be dressed down with a denim or leather jacket, or even a simple, fitted tee. This peachy coral is quite trendy right now, and since it can wreak havoc on many skin tones (including mine), wearing it on the bottom is a great option. Available in sizes 2 -16.

Other not-currently-on-sale resources for lightweight navy blazers:

1. ModCloth - Full skirts are a staple for this vintage-influenced vendor, and many styles will feature a wide waistband. This gingham one is darling, as is this solid black one. Read sizing info carefully before ordering!
2. Anthropologie – Three of my favorite skirts in this style – including the example linked to in the intro – hail from Anthro. This style and silhouette seem to make it into their offerings just about every season.
3. Banana Republic – Right now, all they’ve got is this one. But my all-time favorite wide-waistband skirt is from BR, as well as several less-loved and thrifted ones. They don’t do them every season, but they do them beautifully.
4. ASOS – Several great options, including this glorious green one that is ever-so not-on-sale.

**Disclosure: Actions you take from the hyperlinks within this blog post may yield commissions for alreadypretty.com. See Already Pretty’s disclosure statement for more details.

Bolero sweater, er, I think it was thrifted – similar
Dress, Desigual (no longer available)  - more Desigual
Shoes- Tsubo Acrea
Bracelet, self-made with this tutorial
Earrings, Lulidesigns

I’d thought that this springy recreation of this outfit I wore last fall had a few more tweaks and changes, but dang they are almost identical except for the jewelry and the shoes! I wore a different sweater but they’re pretty close in color. I even carried the same bag, though it didn’t make it into the photos.

Does the whole “imitation is the sincerest form of flattery” thing work if you’re imitating yourself? (More on repeated outfits here.)

I can’t even remember what Husband Mike was doing when he snapped that photo of my face, but it was too hilarious to omit.

**Disclosure: Actions you take from the hyperlinks within this blog post may yield commissions for alreadypretty.com. See Already Pretty’s disclosure statement for more details.

Reader Pamela e-mailed me this question:

I’m fairly successful at putting together composed outfits in the fall and winter, when I can utilize several layers. In the warmer months, (and I live in Tennessee, so the warmer months make up the majority of my year), I have much more trouble. I’d love some advice on how to utilize layers in the warmer months. What sort of layers can I use? Should I be incorporating light scarves and vests, or just layering short sleeve pieces? What basic pieces should I have?

A while back, I offered up some options for covered-up warm weather looks, but Pamela is looking for more general guidance on summer layering. And I’ll admit that I, too, have a tougher time crafting fun and interesting outfits in the blazing heat when layering becomes uncomfortable. In fact, if it gets hot enough, I look like this:

When the Minnesota summer gets humid, sticky, and unbearably hot, it’s a sleeveless dress and sandals. Period. Anything more makes me an unbearable grouch. But here are a few ideas for days that fall somewhere between “pleasantly warm” and “infuriatingly hot,” when layers are a possibility.

Layer your skirts

A few summers back, I thrifted up a whole mess of printed, silky, knee-length skirts specifically for layering. It won’t always work, but allowing a fun print to peek out at a dress or skirt hemline is a great way to add interest to a summer outfit without adding too much bulk.

Consider cropped cardigans

Long cardigans hold virtually no appeal in hot weather, and sometimes traditional ones seem equally unsavory. But cropped cardigans and boleros can add interest to a summery frock without bogging you down. This short-sleeved version is ideal for truly hot weather, but 3/4 and long sleeves are typically bearable in all but the hottest weather.

Try wraps and ponchos

A more daring option, to be sure, but worth exploring. Especially if you’re desperate for an option other than tee + shorts + sandals. Lightweight wraps can be draped and tied in many ways that add interest to your upper torso, and ponchos can be worn over spaghetti strap tank tops and no one will be the wiser. (If you go the poncho route, steer clear of heavy, tasseled wool, of course.)

Play with printed scarves

This was a day when it was so hot and humid, the camera lens refused to remain fog-free for more than a few moments. So it was sleeveless dress and sandals … though I grudgingly added a long, lightweight, PRINTED scarf. I believe that printed scarves are ideal for summer wear since so many of us rely on solids for our actual clothing, and a vibrant print goes a long way toward spicing up an otherwise plain ensemble.

Count accessories as layers

Sometimes adding more cloth to an outfit tips it out of balance. Other times it’s too darned hot. So consider counting your accessories as layers. A necklace, belt, and bangles can add all the additional interest necessary to elevate a simple summer outfit. Don’t kill yourself over layering if you just can’t hack it.

How do you incorporate layers during the warm months of the year?

*In this late-night feature – which will run Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday of each week – I’ll gather up three fun items that are currently on sale online and share them with you! I would LOVE suggestions: Stylish wide-width pumps? Classic v-necked sweaters? Chandelier earrings? Petite dress slacks? What would you like to see featured?*

Kim requested a few picks for lightweight navy blue blazers, so here we go:

Tropical Wool Sophia Jacket – was $198, now $119.99
PLUS an additional 30% off with code MAY30 

I understand now why Kim put in this request. The options for lightweight navy blazers are extremely slim. This version just barely qualifies due to being a seasonless wool in a cropped silhouette. Available in sizes 00 – 18, as well as petite and tall.

Calvin Klein Denim Blazer – was $99.50, now $89.99

I know, but wait. This is a SUPER dark wash denim with no whiskering or detailing, regular blazer buttons, and a traditional blazer cut. It won’t fly with those of you who prefer more traditional blazers, but it’s a good navy option for more casual dressers. And being unlined and made from a relatively lightweight, cotton denim, it should work for summer wear. Available in sizes XS – XL.

Jones New York Knit Jacket – was $79, now $44.79

Since this is a knit, it reads as relatively casual but the eye-catching cut and clean lines will make it a decent choice for all but the most conservative of office environments. Three-quarter sleeves and lack of lining make this a breathable, warm weather-friendly option. Available in size S – XL. (Also comes in gray heather)

212 Collection Solid Blazer – was $48, now $33.60

None of tonight’s picks are perfect or exactly what Kim wants, so I’m throwing a fourth into the pot in hopes of distracting you with quantity of options. (Lightweight navy blazers = RARE.) I’m not a huge fan of short-sleeved blazers for myself since they draw lots of attention to the upper arms and are useless in winter, but they are well ventilated! Which is a decent stand-in for lightweight! Available in sizes 4 – 18.

Other not-currently-on-sale resources for lightweight navy blazers:

1. Nordstrom - If for no other reason than they sell Eileen Fisher, who does light, unlined blazers nearly every spring/summer. But this partially lined option is mighty cute, too, and has several not-on-sale friends on the Nordstrom site.
2. Urban Outfitters – I think of navy as a preppy staple, so I was surprised to find this drapey navy blazer and this fitted navy blazer, both at reasonable prices.
3. Mango – But actually just this blazer here which I think is exactly what Kim is looking for.
4. And, of course, THRIFT STORES! OK, I’ll admit that if you’re looking for a very specific blazer – like a lightweight navy one, say – attempting to thrift it might make your head cave in. But a good 70% of my blazer collection is thrifted, so blazers as a broad category? Thriftable. (thethriftshopper.com can help you locate stores near you.)

**Disclosure: Actions you take from the hyperlinks within this blog post may yield commissions for alreadypretty.com. See Already Pretty’s disclosure statement for more details.

Burnout graphic tee, Rainbow Swirlz
Skirt, thrifted – similar
Boots, Diesel Go-go (no longer available) – similar - more Diesel boots
Cuff, Seasons on St. Croix - by HollyHawk
Earrings, Heatherly Designs
Sunglasses, D&G, courtesy shadesdaddy.com

It did not occur to me that wearing a shirt emblazoned with a skull to a screening of “The Pirates!” might make me look like a wannabe. A wannabe pirate, that is. Since I get seasick just thinking about my half dozen outings on a sailboat I can safely say that a pirate’s life is NOT for me. But I can see how my fellow moviegoers might feel misled.

**Disclosure: Actions you take from the hyperlinks within this blog post may yield commissions for alreadypretty.com. See Already Pretty’s disclosure statement for more details.

Today’s guest post comes from fellow Minnesotan and blogger Shannon Hyland-Tassava! Shannon’s blog, Mama in Wonderland, is a fun read and a great resource for moms. Since she’s a stylish gal to boot, I asked Shannon to suggest a few easy outfits for moms on the go. Read on to find out more!

* * * * *

When Sally recently offered me the opportunity to write a guest post about stylish, go-to outfit “formulas” for busy moms, I jumped at the chance. Many people think that “mom style” is an oxymoron. What kind of “style” works for a daily life filled with the nonstop, hands-on work of caring for children—let alone the endless laundry, cooking, and cleaning of many a busy mom’s schedule?

Well, but wait. As a busy mom myself, I believe that we moms can do better than yoga pants, ill-fitting jeans, faded tees, and workout wear as everyday wear. I believe this so strongly that I devoted an entire section of my book to the idea of workable style for moms. Yes, you CAN be a stylish mom, even if you’re home all day with wee ones, your days begin at 5 a.m. and end at never, or your budget is tight (or all three).

My guiding principles for pieces that work for a busy mom’s wardrobe are that clothes need to be easy, washable, practical, and comfortable. Keeping that in mind, here are a few go-to looks for the stylish, active mom. I think you’ll see that “mom style” is NOT an oxymoron, but instead it’s often downright drool-worthy. (No pun intended, moms of babies!)

*Outfit #1: jeans, cute flats, striped tee, bright scarf, big bag

Image via Polyvore

This is my most frequent and beloved mom “uniform.” Striped tops are more popular than ever this year but are also perennially in style, and can be found at every price point, so update your regular jeans-and-tee look with a classic sailor tee that you’ll wear for years to come. I tend to go for cute flats (think: leopard-print ballets, patent driving mocs in a fun color) rather than flip-flops—more practical for running around town (or after toddlers)—but the idea is the same. Note the use of vibrant accessories to punch up a very casual, basic everyday look, and the large, luxe-looking bag that elevates any outfit to hip-mama status yet still accommodates diapers, extra toddler clothes, sippy cups, toy cars, snacks, and the like. (Target has some inexpensive similar bags right now.)

Here’s the fall version of my favorite mom look: similar, but with skinny jeans tucked into tall boots and a jacket thrown on top. So stylish, yet as basic as can be.

Image via The Daybook

*Outfit #2: dress, flats or boots, cardi

Image via Target.com

Listen, moms, don’t save dresses for special occasions! A washable, knit dress is the ultimate in easy dressing: throw it over your head, add shoes and a bag (and perhaps a cardigan if it’s chilly) and you’re done. Stick with a knee-length or just-above-the-knee hemline and a shape that’s both comfy and flattering; for most moms, that’s something slightly A-line, perhaps with a wrap top. Experiment! A dress is just as easy and comfortable as yoga pants and a tee—but it’ll make you look stylish and put-together at school pick-up even if you’ve been up all night with the baby and haven’t showered in two…oops, make that three…days. Try a casual dress with ballet flats in spring, sandals in the summer, and tall riding boots in the fall. If you add a cardigan, keep it lightweight and fitted for the sleekest, most polished look.

*Outfit #3: casual skirt, tee, skimmers/driving mocs/flats

Image via J.Jill

Another fun look for warmer weather is a casual skirt in place of your usual shorts or yoga capris. Again: just as easy as those less-polished pieces, but much more stylish and grown-up. Go for knee length, and consider chino, lightweight denim, or cotton twill fabrics for just the right combination of structure and comfort. Pair your skirts with basic tees, ruffly tanks, button-front shirts, cardigans—anything you’d normally wear on top with shorts or jeans. To keep the look “busy-mom-casual” rather than overdressed, add cute and practical skimmers, driving mocs, comfy sandals, or ballet flats. In the fall, try boots instead of flats for a little more warmth and coverage.

I can attest that the above “stylish mom looks” are all completely doable; on any given day, you’re likely to find me in one of the three, even when I’m taking my kiddos to the playground or spending all day cleaning the house and planning playdates. When one of my friends confided that her husband had called me “the best-dressed mom at preschool drop-off,” I knew I was doing something right. And all I’d really done was swap out sloppy sweats for a few simple dresses and a scarf or two here and there. You can, too—you stylish mom, you.

*** Shannon Hyland-Tassava is a college-town writer, blogger, and busy mom. Her first book – The Essential Stay-at-Home Mom Manual: How to Have a Wondrous Life Amidst Kids and Chaos – was inspired by her popular motherhood blog, Mama in Wonderland. Shannon holds a Ph.D. in clinical psychology and operates a private wellness coaching practice. For more info, visit www.ShannonTassava.com. ***

**Disclosure: Actions you take from the hyperlinks within this blog post may yield commissions for alreadypretty.com. See Already Pretty’s disclosure statement for more details.