Summer Fashion: Shop Your Closet First and Then Hit the Stores for These Must-Have Trends!

Summer Fashion: Shop Your Closet First and Then Hit the Stores for These Must-Have Trends!

With Memorial Day right around the corner, it is time to start thinking about getting your wardrobe ready for the upcoming summer season. The first step is to shop your closet for Summer fashion finds and then hit the stores for these must-have trends.

Shop Your Closet First

When you shop your closet for summer fashion first, before spending money on trends, it can be beneficial for several reasons. First, it helps you save money and avoid unnecessary purchases. By taking a closer look at what you already own, you may discover hidden gems that you forgot about or pieces that can be repurposed or restyled to create a new look. This can help you avoid buying similar items that you already have in your closet.

Second, shopping your closet encourages sustainability and reduces waste. The fashion industry is one of the largest polluters in the world, and by choosing to reuse what you already own, you can reduce your environmental impact. According to a report by the Ellen MacArthur Foundation, extending the life of a garment by just nine months can reduce its environmental impact by 20-30%.

Finally, shopping your closet can inspire creativity and help you develop your personal style. By experimenting with different combinations of clothing and accessories, you can create unique and personalized outfits that reflect your personality and taste.

Lavender Love

Lavender is definitely the color of Summer 2023, and it was everywhere at the mall. Zara had some great pieces in lavender, including flowy dresses and chic blouses. I also saw lavender at other stores, and it was often paired with black for a sophisticated look. For something a little more fun play with complementary colors on the color wheel, in this case, orange is the right choice for an unexpected color combination. If you’re not sure how to wear lavender, try incorporating it into your accessories, like a lavender purse or scarf.

Aqua + Maeve Reilly Blazer at Bloomingdales

Sequin Waterfall Choker at Zara

Lavender Amethyst Rectangular Statement Ring in 14K Yellow Gold at Bloomingdales

Open Edit Lucca Slide Sandal in Purple Spray at Nordstrom

Open Edit Linen Blend Trousers in Purple Dahlia at Nordstrom

Cargo Pants And Utility Pockets

Cargo pants with utility pockets were another trend that I saw everywhere. These pants are both stylish and practical, and they come in a variety of fabrics and styles. I particularly loved the silky, flowy cargo pants that were on display at several stores. They had sleek pockets that didn’t add bulk to the pants, making them easy to wear and style. Pairing cargo pants with a tighter top will keep things from getting too overwhelming and your figure won’t get lost in the volume of the pant leg.

Straight Cargo Pants at Zara

Bagie Utilty Pants at Abercrombie

Elsie Pant in Tea Leaf at Cami NYC

Straight Leg Cargo Pant at Zara

Maxi Skirts

Maxi skirts are also trending for summer 2023. They’re a great way to dress up or down your look, depending on your mood and the occasion. Maxi skirts are easy to wear, versatile, and come in many different styles. Consider proportions and fabric weight: Denim maxi skirts can feel a bit heavy so choose one that is an A-line or cut on the bias.

Floral Wrap Skirt in Brown at Mango

Abercrombie & Fitch Women’s Faux Silk Column in Brown Print

DIARRABLU Seur Tilo Print Maxi Wrap Skirt in Cream at Nordstrom

Satin Effect Long Skirt at Zara

Bohemian Vibes

The bohemian style is always a popular trend, and this summer is no exception. I’m seeing lots of flowy dresses, oversized hats, and statement jewelry. This eclectic mix of different influences, from romantic to free-spirited and carefree, can be seen on the runways this season. We’re seeing lots of texture in fringe and prints this season! To make this trend work for Summer 2023, try pairing a bohemian dress with cargo pants and utility pockets for a modern twist.

Sidonie Poplin Maxi Dress in Brushstroke Monstera at Madewell

Paisley Mesh Dress at Johnny Was

Saltwater Wrap Belt at Free People

Cherika Natania Dress at Johnny Was

Moonstack Pendant Necklace at Johnny Was

Braid Block Heel at Johnny Was

Do not buy something just because it is trendy.

Above all, learn how to develop your signature style because fashion trends are constantly changing and can be fleeting. What’s in today may be out tomorrow, and if you’re always chasing the latest trend, you may end up with a closet full of clothes that you don’t love or wear. Developing a signature style that is unique to you allows you to express your personality and creativity, and it can help you feel confident and comfortable in your own skin.

When you develop your signature style, you’re not just following the latest trends, but rather creating a look that is uniquely yours. This can involve combining different styles, experimenting with different colors and textures, and finding pieces that flatter your body type and suit your lifestyle. By doing this, you’re not only creating a look that is unique to you, but you’re also creating a wardrobe that is versatile and timeless.

Another benefit of developing your signature style is that it can save you time and money in the long run. Instead of constantly buying new clothes to keep up with the latest trends, you can invest in high-quality pieces that you love and that will last for years. This can help you build a wardrobe that is both stylish and sustainable.

Summer 2023 is shaping up to be a fun and fashionable season, with lots of exciting trends to try. From lavender to cargo pants with utility pockets, there’s something for everyone. So why not try incorporating some of these trends into your wardrobe and see where they take you? With a little creativity, you’ll be turning heads wherever you go. When you shop your closet for Summer fashion first, before spending money on trends, you will create a smart and sustainable approach to fashion. It can help you save money, reduce waste, and develop your personal style. For more summer fashion inspiration, check out our blog post here!

Memorable Mother’s Day Gifting

Memorable Mother’s Day Gifting

Mothers play a critical role in our lives, providing us with love, support, and guidance throughout our childhood and beyond. They often make significant sacrifices to ensure our well-being and happiness, and Mother’s Day is a chance to recognize and appreciate those efforts. This year, why not give your mom something memorable? We’ve got some memorable Mother’s Day gifting ideas that are sure to make your mom smile!

Shared Experiences

Memorable Mother's Day Gifting idea high tea
photo credit: The Spruce

Mother and I love to go on adventures and have fun together. A great way to give your mother a memorable Mother’s Day is by inviting her to a tea party or brunch in her honor. Make it a special day and get the whole family involved! The more people you have in on the fun, the better!

Be creative when planning this event because it will make things more memorable for everyone involved. If you’re planning on hosting a tea party this Mother’s Day, make sure to include a selection of finger sandwiches! Assorted sweet and savory pastries (eclairs, cookies) -Fresh fruit (strawberries and grapes are great options), and of course… TEA! My mothers love to set a table so don’t forget the tablescape and linens! I was so inspired after finding this blog article: 25 Tea Party Ideas for a Fun Grown-Up Tea Party on the Spruce. I curated an Amazon list full of Tea Party must-haves for a one-stop shop for this Mother’s Day experience!

Memorable mother's day gifting ideas

Accessorize your Mothers Day Tablescape with the ease of Amazon! I’ve linked all of my favorite accessories to add an extra element of “wow” to your Mother’s Day table on our Amazon storefront.

Fun Tea Cups ~ Tea Pot ~ Small Vases ~ Candle Holders ~ 3 Tiered Cake Stand ~ Cloth Napkins

Special Delivery

Style beyond age with a bouquet of flowers as a memorable gift

The day of honoring all mothers in the United States began with one woman, Anna Jarvis. Anna Jarvis held a memorial for her mother in West Virginia in 1908, considered the first Mother’s Day celebration, and became an official U.S. holiday in 1914. White carnations were handed out during the first Mother’s Day memorials because they were Anna Jarvis’ favorite flowers! Like Anna Jarvis, my favorite way to honor my mom and let her know that I am thinking of her is to surprise her with a bouquet of her favorite flowers! She loves fresh flowers and enjoys playing around with her arrangements.

That’s why we love the experience of The Bouquet Box. It is the first-of-its-kind, DIY-curated floral arrangement that gives you step-by-step instructions on creating beautiful arrangements at home. If your mom loves to create beautiful arrangements this gift box is for her!

Memorable Gifts: Jewelry, Framed Memories

Sonia from Style Beyond Age modelling gold Julie Vos jewelry for Mother's day
Sonia in her favorite Julie Vos Jewelry that she wears daily.

If your mom is the type who loves to wear jewelry, a memorable Mother’s Day gifting idea might be a piece from her favorite designer. A favorite jewelry line at our house is Julie Vos. Their statement pieces are perfect for daily wear and the quality is exceptional.

Memorable mother's day jewelry gifts

Monaco Demi Cuff ~ Bee Cameo Earring ~ Flora Chandelier Earring ~ Flora Pearl Charm Bracelet ~ Flora Stacking Bangle ~ Cannes Statement Ring

A framed photo of the two of you could also be an excellent choice if you want to remember the good times together. Capturing a special moment in time and presenting it beautifully and meaningfully is so thoughtful and personal. Seeing this moment preserved in a frame can bring joy and happiness to your mother every time she looks at it. I love this beautiful mother-of-pearl frame from Neiman Marcus. So many great options are available at all price ranges and styles depending on what suits you best.

memorable Mother's day gift photo frame

Honoring Mothers who have Passed

I would be remiss to not include a thoughtful idea to honor those mothers who have passed. My Grandmother passed on over 10 years ago and I know that not a day goes by that my mother doesn’t think of her or hear her voice in her head. This Mother’s Day might I suggest honoring those mothers who have passed on by committing a random act of kindness? It’s a beautiful way to pay respect to your mother, and also make someone else’s day. Give back to the community in some way, whether it be volunteering, donating to a cause that is close to your heart, or picking up a stranger’s tab. It’s a great way to brighten your day.

Mother’s Day is a day of celebration and gratitude for all the things your mother has done for you. Acknowledging and celebrating the people who have made our lives so wonderful is important. I am blessed to be able to spend so much time with my mom right now. What a gift! After all, what mom really wants for Mother’s Day is quality time with You! I hope these memorable Mother’s Day gifting ideas will help inspire you when you are honoring your Mother on May 14th. For more Mother’s Day inspiration check out last year’s post on Creating A ‘Choccuterie’ Board! Enjoy!

Experience the Flavors of Mexico: Fashion Tips, Dallas Eats, and Spicy Mango Margarita Recipe

Experience the Flavors of Mexico: Fashion Tips, Dallas Eats, and Spicy Mango Margarita Recipe

Cinco de Mayo is just around the corner, and it’s time to start thinking about how you’re going to celebrate! This is the perfect time of year to truly experience the flavors of Mexico! Whether you’re planning to hit up a local restaurant for some delicious Mexican cuisine or host a party of your own, you should keep a few things in mind.

Firstly, what are you going to wear? This festive occasion is all about bright colors, prints, and flowy silhouettes. In this post, we’ll share some fashion tips to help you look your best on Cinco de Mayo. Secondly, where are you going to eat? Dallas is home to many amazing Mexican restaurants and taco joints, and we’ll highlight some of our favorites. Finally, no Cinco de Mayo celebration is complete without a delicious margarita! We’ll share a recipe for a spicy mango margarita that’s sure to impress your guests. So, let’s get started!

What to Wear for Cinco de Mayo

Cinco de Mayo is a festive holiday so you’ll want to dress accordingly. To get in the spirit of things, try wearing bright colors and prints. Think embroidery on your blouse or skirt and flowers printed on your pants. You can also go for flowy silhouettes like maxi dresses or skirts with flowing fabric that will make you feel light as air! When getting dressed for Cinco de Mayo, there are a few key elements to look for in your closet to create a festive and stylish outfit.

Embroidery and prints

Style Beyond Age modelling an outfit for Cinco de Mayo

When it comes to fashion, Mexican embroidery and prints are iconic and instantly recognizable. Look for pieces with intricate embroidery, such as blouses, dresses, or skirts. You can also incorporate traditional Mexican prints, such as the colorful zigzag pattern of the serape.

Bright colors

Style Beyond Age wearing a dress and Experiencing the Flavors of Mexico

Cinco de Mayo is all about celebrating Mexican culture and heritage, so incorporate bold and bright colors into your outfit. Look for pieces in shades of red, green, yellow, pink, and blue. We love this dress from the Brazilian company Farm Rio. Their line checks all of the boxes when it comes to the bold and happy vibes of Latin America!

Flowy silhouettes

Dallas blogger wearing cinco de mayo dress

Flowy and loose-fitting clothing is a staple in Mexican fashion. You’ll want to opt for loose tops or dresses in breathable fabrics like cotton or linen to stay cool and comfortable. For more fashion inspiration check out our blog post here!

Accessories

Cinco de Mayo outfit and accessories

When it comes to accessories, there are so many options available: statement necklaces in bright colors; bracelets made from colorful beads; earrings with dangling charms–you get the idea! If you’re looking for something more subtle than jewelry but still want an accessory that makes a statement (like me), then why not try some brightly colored shoes? I love my red heels because they’re fun but still neutral enough that they go well with any outfit in my closet.

Cinco de Mayo Specials and Celebrations in DFW

Experience the Flavors of Mexico with a couple of ice cold drinks

Dallas is overflowing with excellent Mexican food options! Experience the flavors of Mexico from Taco joints to authentic Mexican restaurants to Tex-Mex eateries! Dallas has endless options for delicious Mexican food to enjoy this Cinco de Mayo. Whether you’re looking for Mexican food with a twist or just want to enjoy the classics, Dallas has a restaurant that will satisfy your craving. Below I’ve listed some Dallas hotspots that are celebrating Cinco de Mayo with some great specials.

  • Te Deseo ~ Starting at 12 pm on Friday, May 5th, guests can enjoy $8 margaritas, $5 paleta shots, margarita and beer specials, and a build your own Osadia tequila margarita bar. Te Deseo will open for lunch to enjoy a special edition lunch menu featuring arrachera fajitas, snapper, churros and more! Starting at 3 pm, the restaurant will have their regular dinner menu available with the continuation of celebración drink specials.  ~ Stay later to enjoy a cocktail paired with beautiful city views on the Terraza, which opens at 10 pm. Come dance the night away with DJ AVIIGLOW! Reservations are recommended and can be made at Tedeseo.com. 214-646-1314.
  • Happiest Hour ~ Enjoy Cinco de Mayo at Happiest Hour on Friday, May 5! Don’t miss out on celebrating at Dallas’ largest patio bar and lounge with live entertainment, $8 margaritas and Tequila Bottle Specials. 972-528-0067.
  • Poco Fiasco  ~ Celebrate “Poco de Mayo” at Poco Fiasco running on Friday, May 5 & Saturday, May 6. “The Vaquero” (Spanish for a herder or cattle) features HWD Beef cheeks, cilantro pesto, queso fresco, white onion and fresh cilantro. The specialty pizza will be $21 (12 inch)/ $24 (16 inch)/ $26 (18 inch). 214-894-7626.
  • Tacodeli ~ The “farm to taco” concept has refreshing margaritas on the menu made with 100% blue agave tequila, the best quality tequila on the market, perfect for sipping on while enjoying tacos on Cinco de Mayo! Margaritas can be enjoyed for dine-in or ordered to-go in 16 oz., half gallon or gallon sizes. Located in West Dallas – 214-760-1930; Walnut Hill – 214-206-8980; Park & Preston – 972-200-5101; Parkwood – 214-997-6047.
  • HG Sply Co. ~ The location on Greenville Ave. will celebrate Cinco de Mayo with a fiesta on the rooftop featuring drink specials on Modelo, Don Julio and more starting at 3 pm. Also, drink sampling will begin at 3 pm. A live DJ will amp up the energy from 5 pm – close and a mariachi band will serenade the crowd from 7:30 – 8:30 pm. 469-334-0895.
  • Dive Coastal Cuisine ~ Cheers to Cinco de Mayo with Dive’s margaritas including the Hibiscus Margarita – Partida Blanco tequila, lime juice and Bauchant; Classic or Frozen Margarita – Partida Reposado tequila, Cointreau, fresh lime juice and salt rim; and the Poolside Paloma – Avion Silver Tequila, agave nectar, and Q grapefruit soda. 214-891-1700.

Spicy Mango Margarita Recipe

It wouldn’t be Cinco de Mayo without a margarita! Here’s a recipe for a delicious and spicy mango margarita:

Experience the Flavors of Mexico Margarita

Ingredients:

  • 2 oz Tequila
  • 1 oz Lime juice
  • 1 oz Mango puree
  • 1 oz Cointreau
  • 1/2 Jalapeno pepper
  • Salt
  • Ice
  • Mango and jalapeno slices for garnish

In order to truly experience the flavors of Mexico you need some Tequila! When it comes to quality tequila we love Casa Maestri not only for their smooth taste but their festive bottle! 

So mix all ingredients together in a pitcher and add ice cubes. Then pour into glasses with salted rims if desired, or serve on the rocks in a salt-rimmed glass. Finally, you can garnish with jalapeno & lime slices if desired! Cheers!

Celebrating Cinco de mayo in a yellow dress

Remember, the most important thing is to have fun and celebrate! So, wear what makes you feel comfortable and confident, experience the flavors of Mexico, and enjoy the festivities.

Zara Spring Capsule Wardrobe 2023

Zara Spring Capsule Wardrobe 2023

A capsule wardrobe is important because it maximizes the number of looks you can create with a highly curated collection of clothing and accessories that are meant to be easily interchangeable. By having a capsule wardrobe, you can save time, money, and energy by shopping only once a season. Plus, it helps you avoid spending money on frivolous items that can add up quickly. Not only does having a capsule wardrobe help you define and understand your style more, but it also alleviates the stress that comes with adapting to changing weather, social events, and seasonal trends. So read on below for some of our favorites from our Zara spring capsule wardrobe 2023!

The Elements of a capsule wardrobe

Zara Spring Capsule Wardrobe 2023

The concept of a capsule wardrobe is simple: it’s a set of items you can mix and match to create different looks. The key elements you should invest in as you build your capsule wardrobe start with a great-fitting pair of jeans, a chic carryall, a practical flat, the perfect blazer, and a button-up blouse. This concept is based on the idea that having fewer pieces allows for more flexibility and creativity when putting together outfits. Some of the chicest people that I know have a dialed-in and edited capsule wardrobe. Basically, having fewer options to play with will encourage you to get more creative with the special pieces that you do have.

The key elements of a capsule wardrobe are pieces of clothing and accessories that can be easily mixed and matched to create a variety of outfits for different occasions.

STRAIGHT-LEG Z1975 JEANS

LEATHER TOTE

POINTED FLAT LEATHER SLINGBACKS

TAILORED DOUBLE BREASTED BLAZER

OVERSIZED LINEN BLOUSE

Playing with the seasons while working within a capsule wardrobe can be fun and easy.

Add some color:

Zara Spring Capsule Wardrobe 2023 Collage

Spring is all about bright and vibrant colors. Incorporate some colorful pieces into your capsule wardrobes such as a bright floral dress or a pastel-colored blouse. I am personally loving my hot pink jeans as my new spring staple from Zara. Or, switch up your everyday blazer with a pastel one to incorporate some spring into your basic capsule collection. Plus, adding in some pops of color via accessories is also an easy way to update.

Light layers:

Zara Spring Capsule Wardrobe 2023

As the weather warms up, you may need to shed some of your heavier layers. For example, lightweight pieces such as a denim jacket or a cardigan can be easily layered over other items. We really love the denim blazer, it is super versatile and will last you through the Fall.

Swap out boots for sandals:

As the weather gets warmer, swap out your boots for a comfortable sandal or a fun sneaker in a spring color story. This will add a touch of lightness to your outfits and make them more seasonally appropriate.

Bring in some prints:

Spring is the perfect time to experiment with prints such as floral or polka dots. Look for pieces that have a small print or a subtle pattern that can be easily paired with other items in your wardrobe. Also, adding a pretty print blouse can effortlessly Spring-ify any capsule wardrobe.

Accessorize:

Spring is the perfect time to add some fun accessories to your wardrobes such as a colorful scarf or a statement necklace. These items can add a pop of color or texture to your outfits without taking up too much space.

Remember, the key to incorporating the spring season into your capsule wardrobe is to keep it simple. Try to choose items that can be easily mixed and matched with other pieces in your wardrobe. I’ve added all of my Zara recommendations to update your capsule wardrobe for Spring in our shared Favorites Album on the Zara site. You can access our favorites by following this link ZARA SPRING CAPSULE WARDROBE and signing into your account to access my picks!

Thanks for checking out our favorites from our Zara Spring Capsule Wardrobe 2023! Let us know how you’ve refreshed for Spring. Sign up for our newsletter for a chance to be featured on the blog.

What’s your Spring Story?

Let us know!

For more of our favorite Spring fashion favorites, check out our blog post here!

5 Inspired Easter Outfit Tips for the Weekend

5 Inspired Easter Outfit Tips for the Weekend

Spring is in the air and you can feel it. There is fresh new life everywhere! From budding flowers to baby showers there’s a reason to celebrate the new season wherever you look. With this next chapter comes a fresh look at Spring style. So today we’re sharing 5 inspired Easter Outfit tips for the weekend!

Spring is the perfect time to let go of heavy darker winter clothes and enjoy the sunshine. It’s also a great season to experiment with fashion trends—even if you’re not sure how they will look on you.

Style beyond age wearing pink dress for 5 Inspired Easter Outfit Tips for the Weekend

We’ll be incorporating more vibrant pops of color into our wardrobes this spring and summer. And as the temperatures start to rise a little bit, adding whites, pastels, and flowers feels so right.

That’s why I’m loving these outfits: they’re classic, and fresh so you can go out and enjoy the springtime in style.

So here are 5 inspired Easter outfit tips for the weekend to get freshened up for spring:

Spring Layers

Spring layers, 3 jackets for Easter
  • If you haven’t already, it’s time to pack away your heavy darker fall colors. We talk more about clearing out your closet for spring on our blog The Power of Small Changes in Your Life. I am loving the lighter colored tweed jackets, denim blazers and pastel motorcycle jackets right now for when we need to cover up.
  1. Alice & Olivia Chloe Tweed Cropped Jacket
  2. Frank & Eileen Dublin Blazer
  3. Blank NYC Leather Moto Jacket in Highway Star

Color Theory

Color theory
  • Experiment with colors that are in the same color family (so if you wear red, go for pink or orange). You can also try playing with complementary colors on the color wheel for an unexpected color balance.
  1. Express Body Contour V-Wire Color Block Midi Sweater Dress
  2. Color Wheel
  3. Staud Shoko Colorblock Sweater

Mixing Patterns

Mixing patterns for Easter weekend
  • Try to mix patterns (like florals and stripes) in order to create an interesting look.
  1. Abercrombie & Fitch (US)Oversized Boyfriend The Go-Go’s Graphic Tee
  2. ASKK NY Brighton Stripe Pants
  3. Red Dress I Need Your Love Multi Print Top Blue

Pops of Color

Pops of color
  • Go for pops of color like hot pink, bright green, or blue—or even an all-over floral print! I’m really loving these pops of green that I’m seeing right now.
  1. J.Crew US Plaited Italian leather belt
  2. J.Crew Edie Italian leather bag
  3. & Other Stories USChunky Knit Crewneck Sweater

Show A Little Skin

Show a little skin with dresses for 5 Inspired Easter Outfit Tips for the Weekend
  • Show a little skin – with the winter that we’ve had across the country, it’s nice to finally get some Sun on our skin! Getting a little vitamin D will help with your confidence as the weather gets warmer.
  1. Staud Wells Dress
  2. Abercrombie & Fitch (US)Strapless Linen-Blend Midi Dress
  3. J.Crew USShort-sleeve Gwyneth cupro-blend slip dress

Spring fashion is all about feeling light, airy, and carefree. Let your wardrobe reflect that sense of freedom and try out one of our 5 inspired Easter outfit tips for the weekend!

Easter baby shower, 5 Inspired Easter Outfit Tips for the Weekend

“Spring is nature’s way of saying, ‘Let’s party!’ And what better way to party than in a fabulous spring outfit?” – Robin Williams