The Find: A Bold Print for Summer-to-Fall

Sometimes, you see a printed item on a hanger and think, “My Lord, that’s hideous.”  But then, you try it on and realize that the print that swallowed the hanger whole actually looks chic when worn.  This shirt is such a shirt.

If you told me that I would like a blouse that was coffee brown, black and white, I would tell you that you’d gone round the bend.  But there it is, in all of its quasi-animal print glory.  Seriously, this Express blouse should not be ignored. (Runs sizes 00-18, and it’s a tunic length, so it may fit taller ladies.)

But how does one style such an item?

For the Airplane. I would wear this top with a faux leather legging and a short moto jacket (or longer cardigan if you’re more casual).  As for shoes, I’d choose a cool black sneaker like this one from Adidas.

For the Office. This is the perfect blouse for the black bottom, white blazer look.  These wide leg pants from Halogen would be my first choice, but I also like these Ann Taylor High Waist Trousers.  Because the white in the blouse is pure white, you want white here.  This Halogen blazer works, so does this one from WHBM.

Accessories for this look should include simple black shoes with pointed toes: either pumps or flats or tall boots.  I would bring the brown in with my choice of handbag, to tie the whole look together.  This Matt & Nat satchel has a really fantastic look to it, and it has divided compartments and a large profile for the office.  As for the jewelry, I like a black enamel earring here — nothing too pretty, since the look is so bold.  This Kenneth Jay Lane clip earrings are incredible, as are these enamel oval drop earrings.

For the Weekend. I also like this blouse with white denim.  I prefer a skinnier style, but you could also go with a wider leg (if you plan to tuck in the blouse).  With a skinny pair, I’m going to bring in a cognac brown sandal.  I’m also going to tie up the front of the blouse so it’s not as undone. (This video explains how.)  For the bag, I would carry this black bucket style.

Like I said above, on the hanger, I would hate this blouse, but the color combination is very bold and sophisticated for summer-to-fall and winter.  Or if you want to wear it right now, throw it over a black bikini for a chic cover-up at the pool.

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