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the boden maya maxi dress

6/26/2014

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PictureBoden Maya Maxi Dress $148
When it is hot outside, you don't want to be adding layers and accessories to make your outfit look polished. In fact, you are probably choosing your look based on what has the least amount of pieces. The dress is the ultimate summer outfit because it is easy, light, and fun! If you choose a brightly colored and boldly patterned dress, you can minimize the need for accessories so it becomes the ultimate grab and go option. 

When I saw the Boden summer catalog, I immediately fell in love with the Maya Maxi Dress. It looks effortless, but still has tons of visual interest. I love how the model has added only sandals and a floppy hat, which lets the pattern take center stage. Last week I ordered the dress during Boden's 40% off dresses sale, but I didn't want to get my hopes up too high. Well, it just arrived this morning and I can say that it exceeds all expectations! Available in regular, long, and petite lengths and in 4 color options (2 of which are solids), this is the must-have dress of the season. 

Although it is hard to see in the full-length photo, underneath the bust line there is a band with great detailing that helps define the waist and give the maxi dress some structure. The photo below highlights that detailing and also shows another color option. (The solid colors available are black and teal.)

Not sure when you would have occasion to wear it? A maxi dress is the perfect piece for street festivals, outdoor concerts, dinners on the patio, and evening walks. For a dressier look, add a couple bangle bracelets and a metallic sandal. If you have a vacation planned, this is a great option to pack because it can effortlessly transition from daytime to dinner. The jersey fabric has some stretch to it and it is machine washable making it the perfect intersection of flattering fit and no-fuss maintenance. 

Like the dress as much as I do? Boden is having a 30% off sale until midnight on Friday so it is the perfect time to update your wardrobe with a stylish piece that will keep you cool all summer long. The Maya Maxi Dress can be found here.

Where is your favorite place to wear a summer dress? Share your ideas in the comments to inspire stylish looks at fun, summertime events!
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Waist Detail on the Boden Maya Maxi
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summertime casual: chambray & prints

6/19/2014

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Choosing the perfect outfit can be difficult during the summer because you have to dress both for the hot and humid outdoors and the heavily air conditioned indoors. On the weekends when you are running errands this especially is a problem because you are only spending a short time in the cool air conditioning before heading back out into the heat.

A lightweight long sleeve button up shirt keeps your arms warm inside and prevents them from becoming sunburned outside. You can also wear a tank underneath the shirt so you can easily remove a layer for extended periods of time in the hot sun. 

Since a long sleeve shirt doesn't feel particularly summery, pair it with a pair of patterned shorts  and a bright color of nail polish. You can also use your sunglasses to add an extra pop to your look. A large tote bag is great for keeping all your summer essentials, like a light sweater and sunscreen, at your fingertips. Choose a tote with a simple pattern so that it coordinates with even your most exciting prints. Then slip into a comfortable sandal and you will be set for all your weekend chores and fun!
summertime casual

summertime casual by practicallystylishblog featuring petite shorts

J Crew woven top / Boden petite shorts / Birkenstock bohemian sandals / FOSSIL beach bag tote / Plastic sunglasses / OPI light pink nail polish, $20
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men's fashion: 3 ways to wear an oxford shirt

6/16/2014

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The oxford shirt is a staple for many men's wardrobes, especially since the options for shirt styles are much more limited than for women. Most often they are associated with and worn to work, but these versatile pieces also look great layered and with jeans. Here are three ways to switch up your look so that you get the most use out of your shirts (and for more men's style inspiration, check out my Pinterest board.)
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Banana Republic Snap-Placket Elbow-Patch Pullover $79.50
#1. Quarter-zip sweaters (like the one shown in the the photo) are all over the place these days and I love how easy they are to wear. They feel more casual than a blazer or a regular sweater, but the zip perfectly frames the layers underneath. Depending on your event's dress code, you can either wear just an oxford under the sweater or add the tie as well. Pair with dark denim and a great pair of shoes and you'll be ready to hit the town.

#2. For a casual weekend look, the key is in the shirt itself. Bold, bright colors and plaids immediately make the shirt feel less like work and more like play. Roll the sleeves and leave a button or two at the top undone to give a relaxed vibe. Pair with either denim or shorts and finish the look with sandals, sneakers or another casual shoe.

#3. When you do need to wear an oxford shirt with a suit, don't let that stifle your own personal style. Mix your patterns and textures and don't forget about the details! If you wear french cuff shirts, choose interesting cufflinks to swap out for the placeholders that might come with the shirt and don't forget to add a pocket square (the coordinates with, but doesn't match your tie)! Even your socks should offer an interesting pop of pattern. You might be wearing a suit like every other guy in the room, but you can be confident that you look one-of-a-kind.
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happy father's day!

6/15/2014

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Happy Father's Day! I am glad to be spending a relaxing weekend with my dad. I hope that you are all also having a wonderful day filled with family, friends, and delicious food. I no longer play dress-up in my dad's clothes, but I'm always glad to spend time with him!
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Alice & Dad, May 1991
(In case you think I was an abnormally tall three year old, I am actually standing on top of a small table. Even with that, the only reason I made it up to Dad's shoulder height was because of my curly hair!)
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father's day fashion

6/14/2014

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It's Father's Day weekend so the next few days on practically stylish will be all about men's fashion! I have had a lot of fun prepping for this by creating a Pinterest board of great looks for men. The widget below shows a preview, but there are many more images when you click through as well as my comments on each pin. Banish the "dad jeans" this Father's Day and help get all the men in your life looking stylish. 
Follow Practically Stylish's board fashion for men on Pinterest.
What are your favorite men's fashion styles and what pieces do you want to burn? Share your thoughts in the comments and then pass this post onto a male in need of some clothing inspiration!
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