how to style – Budget & Brunch

When it comes to layering, there are a few tips and tricks that I live by. Since I hate getting super hot, I thought I’d share how I layer in order to stay cool in those warm places…

I start with a basic neutral outfit. For example, a black or striped turtle neck + jeans + boots.

Next, I layer something warm and easy to take off, i.e. a cardigan, flannel, or sweater.

Then, I put on my outerwear, a coat, hat, and/or scarf.

When layering, I always make sure you can see the bottom layer. This is why I like to build on top of a long sleeve turtle neck. It is easy to make sure the neck and sleeve peek out ever so slightly. The turtle necks pictured are from Madewell, they’re nice and thin which makes them great for layering, then you don’t get too hot. They’re also easy to tuck and don’t add a lot of bulk. Pro tip: I always size up in coats in order to have enough room to layer.

Left to right:

Outfit 3: Turtle Neck | Similar Sweater | Similar Coat | Jeans | Similar Boots

*The Old Navy Sherpa Coat is SOLD OUT as of 12/19/19 which is why I didn’t link that one.

That’s it, it is really that simple! Don’t overthink layers, they are meant to be easy and basic. If you want tips on how I “cuff ’em, tuck ’em, and go” click here. I also mention pattern stacking in that blog post if you’re interested 😏!

Belt Bags (or fanny packs as we used to call them) are slowly making a come back in to the fashion world…I mean did they ever truly leave? I have loved this trend from the beginning, probs because I am a 90’s child and there is a sense of nostalgia that comes with wearing one!

I realize this is an either love it or hate it kind of trend; however, I love not only the versatility, but the convenience of having your hands/shoulders free at all times! Whether you do love it or hate it, I wanted to show you 6 ways you can style a belt bag without looking like you stepped out of the 90’s. So here are some tips and tricks for you to keep in mind when styling a Belt Bag…

Tip #1:

Don’t use every loop.

Ok, if you didn’t catch my IGTV Post “How to Style a Belt Bag”, you should definitely go check it out, but if you did you may have noticed that I pointed to the last loop and didn’t put my belt bag through.

This makes it easier to move the bag on your waist. You can choose the side you want it on and style it comfortably. Putting the belt through all of the loops limits the mobility of the bag and causes the bag to be in the middle of you stomach.

Tip #2:

Tuck your shirt.

You can front tuck it or tuck it all the way around, but tucking your shirt helps to make the belt bag a focal point. Trust me, you want to make this cutie bag the focal point! If you decide to front tuck it, you can simply leave the extra strap slack showing underneath.

If you decide to tuck it all the way around you can either leave the belt showing as an accessory or you can do a cute knot in the front (pictured below).

Tip #3:

Don’t limit yourself.

Belt bags are extremely versatile. These can be worn with whatever you damn well please. Do NOT limit yourself to thinking that you can only wear it with skinny jeans. I styled it several different : with wide-leg jeans, skinny jeans, a skirt, athletic wear, and a dress!

Tip #4:

Own it.

Wear all things with confidence; including belt bags! Too often, we, as people worry entirely too much about what other people think. I am here to tell you that what other people think about you doesn’t matter. That’s right…it doesn’t matter. You have to realize that if you want to wear something, you should.

Don’t get me wrong, belt bags aren’t for everyone and I’m not insinuating that if you don’t wear one, you aren’t confident. I am simply saying that it is your choice and you shouldn’t let the opinions of others steer you in one direction or the other!