Bits of Style Wears PrettyLittleThing

Cool town, evening in the city. Dressing so fine and looking so PrettyLittleThing! Isn't that how the song "Summer in the City" goes? PrettyLittleThing kindly reached out and invited me to take part in its Summer Style blog campaign. I chose three outfits, selecting pieces from PrettyLittleThing.com's summer in the city-ready dresses, rompers & playsuits, and tops. Even though I live in D.C., the outfits I put together are inspired by the NYC fashion scene in one of my favorite movies, The Devil Wears Prada. Clearly, PrettyLittleThing and I are on the same page of Runway Magazine because it sells a T-shirt featuring the legendary Miranda Priestly (Meryl Streep), and Andy Sachs (Anne Hathaway). Speaking of Meryl Streep, can we talk about how fantastic she is in Big Little Lies? That's all.... Scroll onward to see how I styled my favorite PLT pieces into Miranda Priestly-approved looks that are on-trend, yet timeless. 

Look #1: PrettyLittleThing in Pink

Wearing the PrettyLittleThing Rose Strappy Satin Cowl Midi Dress

I had to say yes to the dress. Its name alone spoke to me. The rosy pink color and sheen of the satin are standouts. Miranda Priestly would want this dress on the cover of Runway. I can see Carrie Bradshaw, yet another fictitious NYC style icon, wearing it on the streets of Manhattan. Come to think of it, this dress reminds me of the one Carrie wears in her column's bus side advertisement. (Can you tell I'm watching Sex and the City as I write this?) I styled it with simple silver jewelry and barely-there nude heels for an evening look that's chic and summery. 

Look #2: Blazer Dress Business

Wearing the PrettyLittleThing Petite Black Gold Button Blazer Dress

I have wanted a blazer dress for ages, and PrettyLittleThing delivered. The gold button detailing on this one adds a vintage-inspired touch. Emily Blunt's The Devil Wears Prada character would wear this while lecturing pre-makeover Andy about how to be successful at Runway. Speaking of successful, you can probably tell by the hair this look is influenced by Ariana Grande, who just so happens to live in New York City. Inspired by Ari's music video for "Breathin'" filmed in Grand Central Station, I staged this photo shoot in D.C.'s Union Station, which is pretty grand itself. PLT's blazer dress means business, but is better suited for a night out than the office. I styled it with black suede lace-up sandals, gold hoops, and a mini bag. 

Look #3: Denim Devil 

Wearing the PrettyLittleThing White Devil Wears Prada Oversized T Shirt and Light Wash Denim Dungaree Dress

The Devil Wears Prada? On a T-shirt? Groundbreaking. I freaked out when I saw this tee on PrettyLittleThing's website. It's so me. Did you know the movie is now 13 years old? Hard to believe. I love layering a graphic tee under a denim jumper dress, and this light wash one is perfect for summer. Plus, it has pockets! Paired with canvas sneakers, a mini bag, and simple silver jewelry, this look is ready for the weekend. 

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Thank you, PrettyLittleThing, for helping me update my summer style. The PLT Petite collection (sizes 00-10) was the perfect place to find my blazer dress, and the straight size (sizes 0-16) pieces I selected fit my five-foot frame well. PrettyLittleThing also offers PLT Tall (sizes 2-12) , PLT Plus (sizes 12-22), and PLT Shape (sizes 4-16) collections. I like my pieces so much, I want to order from PrettyLittleThing for myself sometime. With PLT, my summer in the city is pretty chic. Let me know which look is your favorite!

-Bitsy 

Federal Trade Commission (FTC) Disclaimer: This post is an advertisement sponsored by PrettyLittleThing. All PLT clothing is gifted in exchange for this review. All opinions are authentic and my own. 

MAD WOMEN

Dress: T.J.Maxx (similar here) | Shoes: Dolce Vita (sold out, similar here) | Bag: Forever 21 (sold out, similar here) | Scarf: thrifted (similar here) | Belt: ASOS | Necklaces: Forever 21, Lucky Brand, Kohl's | Earrings: formerly my mom's (similar here)

Lately, I've been wondering what style defines the decade of the 2010s in America? Throughout history, fashion has been used to visually represent societal outlook and change. The 2010s dressed us as we kept up with the Kardashians, looked across the pond to covet Princess Kate's closet, and scrolled through social media in search of style inspiration. Towards the end of the decade, we, as a country, faced deep change that tugged at the already threadbare fabric of our nation. Racism, sexism, and xenophobia, to name a few of many "isms" and "phobias," became more emboldened than before. People protested, chanted, recorded, and wore pink "pussy hats." There was triumph, there were tears, and there was tyranny.

I finished Mad Men the other day. The clothes in the show are captivating. Patterns were bold, colors were bright, and silhouettes were whimsical.  The '60s, much like today, saw protests, chaos, and change. But the clothes told a different story. Fashion was fun. People dressed up. The later seasons showed the hippie culture with its carefree clothes, relics that the likes of Free People and Urban Outfitters try to recreate. A lot of the topics Mad Men covered are just as relevant now as they were in the '60s; racial justice, women's rights, abortion. If the '60s are so similar to today, why haven't we dressed like it? Sure, we have ModCloth and thrifting, but what's lacking is a large-scale movement like the hippie generation that impacts clothing choices. However, one could argue that movement is digital. Millennials tend to dress, so I've noticed, like social media influencers. Sometimes, being fed what you find as you scroll through your feed prompts a trip to Urban Outfitters.

The hippies showed us how fashion can be a form of protest and defiance, and in this age of injustice, I'm all for it. The latest MET Gala theme, "Camp: Notes on Fashion," was a form of defiance in its own right. This summer, I want to dress in a way that gives a nod to the '60s. This outfit was square one. Call me Mad Woman. I searched my closet to put together this groovy getup. This crochet dress is one of my all-time favorites. Styled with a western belt, head scarf, ankle booties, bamboo top handle bag, and layered necklaces, this look is nothing but peace ☮️ and love ❤️ . Summer '19 is far out.


~Bitsy

Doorway Series #1

Sweater: Isabel Marant (sold out, similar here) | Skirt: Aritzia (sold out, similar here) | Coat: Topshop (sold out, similar here) | Shoes: Dr. Martens | Bag: Forever 21 | Hat: Free People (sold out, similar here)

When one door closes, another door opens. Since I've started law school, I haven't had the time to blog like I've wanted to. Bits of Style took a necessary backseat for my very first semester. Yes, Elle Woods. Law school is hard. Instead of going on photoshoots around the city, I was studying Civil Procedure.

This blog has been my creative outlet for six years; a space to express myself and my passions for writing, fashion, and photography. Now that (I think) I get the general gist of how law school works, I want to post more this semester. Lately, I've been inspired by '50s and '60s fashion (thanks, The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel) and editorial styling. I want to share that inspiration with you.

When one door closes, another door opens. My latest photo series utilizes the doorways inside my apartment. I love the retro aesthetic and the way the doorframe frames the photographs. For this outfit, I drew inspiration from the editorial and retro styling I've been inspired by. The result is a bit British and a bit French.

Pairing red and green is my favorite way to color block. A sleek scarlet coat and an emerald '70s-influenced handbag with a bamboo handle (you'd never guess it is Forever 21) make the look vibrant. My mom gave me the handbag as a gift. She once had one just like it. Classic Doc Martens are my shoe of choice.

Here's to new doors opening in 2019.

~Bitsy

Cowgirl at Waterloo

Top: Nordstrom (sold out, similar here) | Vest: Levi's (sold out, similar here) | Jeans: H&M (sold out, similar here) | Shoes: Dolce Vita (sold out, similar here) | Sunglasses: Urban Outfitters | Bandana: Walmart | Bracelet: Pandora | Bag: Rebecca Minkoff (sold out, similar here)

Jessie from Toy Story was totally my inspiration for this outfit. She's low-key a fashion icon and unofficial "it girl." I rarely wear denim on denim, but the vest works well with these flares for a '70s-meets-western, festival apropos look. I've never been to Coachella, but if I did, I would wear this. Sunglasses straight out of the movie Get a Clue (2002) starring Lindsay Lohan (cough, cough, I mean Urban Outfitters) and a bandana at the neck complete the outfit. Come to think of it, Donna from Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again would wear this as well.

~Bitsy

Business Casual

Blazer: J.Crew Factory (sold out, available in navy here) | T-shirt: Hanes | Jeans: LF (sold out, similar here) | Shoes: Topshop (sold out, similar here) | Bag: Kate Spade (sold out, similar here) | Necklace: BCBGeneration | Earrings: BCBGeneration | Watch: Michael Kors

I couldn't wear this to the office, because, ripped jeans, but I'm still going to call this outfit business casual. A blazer can make any look polished. I hadn't worn blazers in so long until I started working in a professional environment. Now I like to style them on days off. A blazer, jeans, and a T-shirt can take you anywhere, from meetings, to running errands and dinner out. You can't go wrong. 

I paired my blazer with a boys Hanes T-shirt I got at Walmart for $4. Seriously, buy boys/mens T-shirts to layer with. They're affordable, durable, comfortable, and classic. My favorite jeans I got at the LF sale last year add a laid-back edge to the look. To counter the ripped denim, I wore ankle boots and minimalistic gold jewelry. A mini bag adds the finishing touch. 

~Bitsy

Snow Day

Dress: Forever 21 (sold out, similar here) | Top: American Apparel | Scarf: Steve Madden | Shoes: Dr. Martens | Glasses: Warby Parker

It's a snow day here in Boston and that means I'm in hibernation mode. What a great opportunity to bring you a new blog post! I am not wearing this outfit today, but it's what I would be wearing if I wasn't stuck inside while 20 inches of snow accumulates around me. Perhaps if it were a light dusting, I would.

I call this look "snow day-chic." It's comfy, cozy, and captures the essence of what's left of the New England winter. I don't know about you, but I'm looking forward to spring. Snow in March is a big no from me.

~Bitsy

Photo credits: Maggie Skerry (@magsterpiece97)

Feminist Oliver Twist

Coat: Topshop (sold out, similar here) | Top: American Apparel (sold out, similar here) | Jeans: Brandy Melville (sold out, similar here) | Shoes: Topshop (sold out, similar here) | Hat: Free People (sold out, similar here) | Bag: Rebecca Minkoff | Glasses: Warby Parker | Earrings: H&M

"Please, sir. May I have some more respect for women?" - Feminist Oliver Twist. 

It's Women's History Month; a time to celebrate and reflect on the advances women of all ages, backgrounds, identities, and abilities have made in society. Women are revolutionaries. We are movers, shakers, thinkers, creators, entrepreneurs, and so much more. We're strong and vulnerable, clever and scrappy. We persist and defy expectations. We raise our voices. We say #MeToo and Time's Up. We demand positive social change.

I love the color red. It's a power color. Red lipstick colors the words I speak with a stroke of strength and passion. A red coat keeps my body warm that others have branded with a scarlet letter for being too vocal. Isn't it strange how women can seemingly never win? How people try to color us with their favorite shades? 

When someone tries to paint you with a broad brush, make your colors shine brighter. Be unapologetic in the showcase of the masterpiece you call your soul. Be kind to yourself. Celebrate yourself. Support your sisters. Be an ally for those who are not able or are hesitant to express their complete selves. Listen. Learn. Speak and stand up. We are women. 

~Bitsy

What I'd Wear to NYFW: Day 1

Dress: Zara (sold out, similar here) | Boots: thrifted (similar here) | Choker: H&M

I wish I was at Fashion Week! I've never been, and it's on my bucket list. Since I can't be there, I will be posting every day of New York Fashion Week what I'd wear if I were actually attending the shows. If I were there today, the first day, I'd wear this black off the shoulder dress from Zara paired with tights and feathered over the knee boots. According to the weather app on my phone, it's 32 degrees in NYC. Perfect mini dress weather. Go glam or go home! A black velvet choker completes the look. 

~Bitsy

City Casual

Dress: Brandy Melville (sold out, similar here) | Shirt: Nordstrom (sold out, similar here) | Shoes: Converse | Bag: Rebecca Minkoff (sold out, similar here) | Sunglasses: Ray-Ban | Watch: Daniel Wellington | Bracelet: Tiffany & Co. | Choker: H&M | Earrings: Nordstrom Rack (sold out, similar here)

T-shirt dress + shirt tied around the waist + Converse + mini bag = the perfect busy-in-the-city look. It's comfortable, casual, and can take you anywhere from running errands to treating yourself to a tasty lunch. One of my favorite spots is Tatte Bakery & Cafe, which is right around the corner from where I took these pictures in Beacon Hill. Their sandwiches are some of the best in Beantown, as are their pastries, cookies, and hot teas. Tatte's mint lemonade is my weakness, especially on a hot day. It's hydration and happiness in a cup. To complete the laid-back look, I accessorized with simple jewelry and sunnies. I'm summer in the city ready.

~Bitsy

Patriotic in Polka Dots

Romper: Zara | Shoes: Nordstrom Rack | Bag: Rebecca Minkoff (sold out, similar here) |

  Earrings: Nordstrom Rack | Sunglasses: Ray-Ban

Happy 4th of July! I hope all of you who celebrated the big 241st birthday were able to relax and have fun. It was a gorgeous summer day where I am. I kept it low-key and spent time with my family. Though I didn't wear this outfit today, it would have been perfect for the holiday. I'm obsessed with this navy blue and white polka dot romper from Zara. The ruffle detailing and wrap silhouette make it unique. Paired with cork wedges, Ray-Bans, hoop earrings, and a mini bag, it's ready for any summer's day. The blue and white look wouldn't be complete without a red lip. 'Zip' by Glossier is my summer scarlet of choice. I'm patriotic in polka dots. 

~Bitsy

Stars and Stripes

Dress: Topshop (sold out, similar here) | Jacket: Hollister Co. (sold out, similar here) | Shoes: Converse | Bag: Brandy Melville (sold out, similar here) | Necklace: Brandy Melville | Earrings: Nordstrom Rack | Sunglasses: Ray-Ban

Happy 2nd of July! Can you believe it?! We're only two days away from the 4th. I'll be delivering Fourth of July outfit inspo all long weekend long here on Bits of Style. My first look is a modern spin on Americana. I wore this same Topshop navy and white stripe midi dress around the holiday last summer. I've styled it a bit differently this time around. I paired the dress with my go-to white Converse to keep the look casual. A vintage wash denim jacket I've had in my closet for ages (I'm talking freshman year of high school) protects arms and shoulders that burn easily. It's lightweight enough that I won't overheat either. A faux leather backpack holds all my summer essentials: sunscreen, sunnies, baseball cap, and a water bottle. For accessories, I chose my favorite gold star choker to play up the stripes on my dress. Stars and stripes scream Independence Day. Gold hoop earrings keep the look well-rounded. Ray-Bans are the finishing touch. Enjoy the festivities, my fellow Americans! 🇺🇸 ⭐ 🎆 ❤️

~Bitsy

Photo credits to my fabulous sister, Maggie (@magsterpiece97).

Grunge Garb

Top: Topshop (sold out, similar here) | Skirt: Topshop (sold out, similar here) | Jacket: thrifted (similar here) | Shoes: Dr. Martens | Bag: Rebecca Minkoff (sold out, similar here) | Tights: ASOS | Choker: H&M | Earrings: Nordstrom Rack | Sunglasses: Ray-Ban

This outfit couldn't be more '90s if it tried. All that's missing is a CD player. This look says both "give me your lunch money" and "give me your Hulu account info so I can watch The Handmaid's Tale." I'm, like, getting serious Spinelli from Recess and young Drew Barrymore vibes from this look. I love how effortlessly cool grunge garb is. A black denim button-front skirt paired with a mid-wash denim jacket creates a subtle double denim contrast. I've decked mine out in pins I've thrifted and been gifted. A lace-up tank, fishnets, Doc Martens, and '90s jewelry complete this wicked sweet look. 

~Bitsy