Since the beginning of the pandemic, I have relegated my purchases to those that fill one of these three needs: utility, comfort, and joy.  This blouse from & Other Stories has utility covered and a fun tie-front detail that brings in a bit of joy.  Because who says basics need to be boring?

Top. & Other Stories Oversize Knotted Shirt

This shirt is incredibly versatile.  In addition to the two outfits below, you could wear the top with gray denim.  Layer it over a silky slip dress.  Or just toss it on over a pair of leggings and sneakers.

Plus-size? Try this Madewell shirt for something similar.  Petite?  INC has a stylish top.

Left. Gap 5″ Midi Rise Short // Stella McCartney Polka Dot Bikini Top and Bikini Bottom // Lilac Rothy Sneakers // Balmain Tortoise Sunglasses // Link-Up Gold Hoop Huggies

I’m headed to the lake this weekend to get in a bit of a staycation.  It’s a more casual event than my usual resort trips, so I thought I would dress down a bit.  These distressed denim shorts have a midi-rise and a long enough inseam that they’re comfortable.

If you prefer something other than denim, try these cute floral print shorts or these olive belted shorts from Express.

This dotted bikini is an adorable option.  This style of wrap-around top is actually flattering on a lot of figures.  This underwire top has a similar look, as does this lemon print top.

I finished off the look with these lilac-colored sneakers from Rothy’s.  They’re adorable.  For a more affordable option, Converse also makes a purple sneaker.

Right. Iris & Ink Satin Midi-Skirt // Lotus Straw Clutch // Chico’s Wood Bangle Set // BR Triple Strap Wedge Sandal

Last weekend, we went for our traditional outdoor brunch and I noticed a group of college-age girls dining with their parents.  Every one of whom was wearing the same outfit: t-shirt, satin midi-skirt, white tube socks and sneakers.

While the footwear isn’t exactly my taste, I did like the idea of a satin skirt worn casually.  This outfit blends a copper-colored satin skirt with semi-casual accessories.  It’s perfect for an al fresco dinner.

Like the skirt?  This coral Alice + Olivia skirt is on sale.  This bright yellow skirt is gorgeous.  For something under-$25, this dotted skirt is worth a look.  Plus-size?  Start with this skirt from Nordstrom Rack.

To make the satin skirt and metallic wedge a little more casual, I added a raffia clutch and a wood bangle.  If you prefer a flat sandal, the Banana Republic sandal also comes in a flat version.

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