About this time each year, when all of us Southerners pretend that Fall is almost here, I try to find something…anything that can make me feel like I am moving towards autumnal style. My Summer stuff feels so tired and uninspiring by this point, but it’s pretty impossible to break away from the shorts and tanks until at least mid October (if not later, honestly).
A couple of years ago I picked up a Kimono and well, that was it — it’s the transitional piece I need. It’s light and breathable, but also makes me feel like I can start to embrace Fall, in all it’s glory…even if I am still in cut-offs and sandals. Ya know, we can’t have it all. Sometimes you have to embrace what you have and get a tad creative. I mean, I don’t know how creative a kimono with shorts is…but IT WORKS and I keep turning to it every year around this time.
I figured that, even though I am currently Wearing it in 80/90 degree temps, I’d also show you how I tend to style it when the south finally enters into the Fall season…
How to Wear a Kimono Now
(he makes me carry him everywhere…and he’s huge)
The Outfit
kimono: Free People Peony Kimono (TTS, wearing small) – what I like about this one is its length…not too long. Long, flowy ones are beautiful, but it’s nice that this one is shorter and doesn’t get in the way. Also, it looks more like a jacket…and that’s a cool look. Free People also has it.
top: BP. Mock Neck Tee (TTS if you like fitted, wearing small) – cute, little top. It is almost a crop style on me, so a higher waist is preferred to pair with it. It comes in a few colors, btw.
shorts: Levi’s 501 Shorts (TTS, wearing 27) – my particular pair, with the studs, is selling out…but the style is not. Their 501 Shorts are a fantastic fit. They’re my favorite shorts!
belt: Faux Gucci Belt (prime shipping via Amazon!) – amazing. I am not one to spend hundreds on a belt, of all things…but I have been noticing the trend on others and like the more ‘spensive look it gives to an outfit. Well, I hunted down something similar and came across this one. It is a knock-off, but I love it.
sandals: Sam Edelman (old, sorry) – Rebecca Minkoff has their Arella sandal, which is a similar, updated style (comes in a black, too). This is, by far, my favorite sandal style.
bag: Madewell Small Transport Crossbody – great mom bag and appreciate the crossbody strap.
How to Wear a Kimono Later
(caption that face: “…when…when will I ever feel rested again?”)
The Outfit
kimono: Free People Peony Kimono (TTS, wearing small) – what I like about this one is its length…not too long. Long, flowy ones are beautiful, but it’s nice that this one is shorter and doesn’t get in the way. Also, it looks more like a jacket…and that’s a cool look to pair with your favorite denim. Free People also has it.
top: AE Soft & Sexy Plush Henley (TTS, wearing small) – great top! It’s super soft. Depending on whether you like a fitted or super-slouchy look, you can size up or down. P.S.: I totally was looking for a slouchy turtleneck like this to wear under the kimono, as well. I think both are great options for adding an additional, warmer layer.
jeans: Levi’s 501s (TTS, wearing 27, I chopped them BTW) – my particular pair is no longer available, but the 501 style definitely is. Shopbop has two pairs I like right now – this Skinny Stretch and my favorite…the 501 Skinny in a lighter wash. Oh, yes.
booties: Dolce Vita Tommi Bootie (TTS, wearing 9.5) – always nice to have a bootie like this, and the camel color is super on-trend right now. As a southern gal (sorta), I always look for a perforated bootie…b/c hot.
bag: Topshop Hettie Hobo Bag – great mom bag and I appreciate the longer strap. I could even wear it like a crossbody, if need be. For a cheaper bag, it’s a pretty well-made option for Fall/Winter.
Are you experiencing any Fall weather yet? If so, keep your mouth shut. I kid. Good for you and your cute, little sweaters and hats!
Cheers,
Cams / @camilledipaola
Photos by Christina Hussey Photography.
