Summer in Bloom

Has this ever happened to you? Picture this scenario: You spot a fabulous summer look online and fall in love with the print, the style, and the flow of it. You aren’t too sure though how exactly it will look on you. So you head over to the brick & mortar store to see if they have it in stock and to give it a try it on before you make the final commitment. However, after checking two stores, you learn that they do not have the item in stock in-store, and that you must order it online. Your heart sinks. You head back to the website and stare at the ensemble again. Love at first sight! Still, you aren't sure, you don't feel confident making a definitive decision! 

Of course there is always the option of purchasing it and then sending it back if need be, but….So, two weeks go by. Try as you may, you cannot stop thinking about that outfit! Finally you take the plunge, place your online order, and bite your nails in constant anticipation of its arrival…

Triumphantly the moment comes, your package has arrived!!! You rip it open in a frenzied fashion and immediately try it on. You are filled with high hopes: The moment of truth is finally realized and you feel exhilarated! Such was my personal experience with today’s look =) I deliberated for what feels like forever before I finally took the leap and ordered it online! 

I personally prefer brick and mortar stores 10 times out of 10, however things are shifting in the retail industry, now I find myself perusing online shops. I actually subscribe to the e-newsletter for this particular retailer, and I heart their designs. When this look popped into my inbox, I was caught by storm.

For one thing, I already have a number of off the shoulder options (see examples here, here, and here); I’ve even mentioned on Instagram that I may very well need an intervention! I can’t seem to say “no” when I come across new shoulder-less options….Which brings to mind, I recently read an interesting piece about dressing for summer, providing pointers if you don’t like your arms. 

The writer advised that if you have some concern about showing your arms, you should get in on the off the shoulder trend: “Shoulder-baring tops are everywhere right now and for good reason. No, not just because they look super cute at brunch but because they’re also the perfect silhouette for hiding arm insecurities. The banded top exposes your strong shoulders and slim collarbone while covering the softer areas of your arms in one trendy fell swoop.” Source Pure Wow

That comment gave me cause for pause. I don’t love my arms, but I don’t hate them either. Admittedly, it is true that most off the shoulder tops provide coverage for a portion of your arms. But is that reason enough to wear them? Say, if you’re not particularly fond of the style itself? I’d love to hear your thoughts on this Babes, please do share below!

Until next time,
XO

Sunnies: Betsey Johnson| Statement necklace: Nordstrom| Off the shoulder top & Midi skirt: Zara (Size L)
Handbag: | en cuir (worn here)| Strappy sandals: Mix No. 6