Fashion Fridays have been a little quieter this week because I’ve been completely wrapped up in finishing my third cookbook. The project is deep in the design stage, so I’ve spent days reviewing layouts, tweaking recipes, and making last-minute changes before it goes to print in two weeks. It’s an exciting but exhausting stretch, and that has translated into a very relaxed wardrobe—mostly pajamas and sweats while I work through edits. Not exactly my polished look, especially when I skip makeup and brush my hair less often than usual.
One night I did make an effort and dressed up for a date with my partner. We started with cocktails at a nearby restaurant and had intended to head to a friend’s birthday party afterward. Plans shifted when another friend called about his brand new French bulldog puppy. Suddenly the birthday party was forgotten in favor of meeting that puppy. I swapped out heels for sweats in a heartbeat and spent the evening playing with the little furball. It was one of those perfectly simple, joyful nights—though it also reminded me that I’m not ready for another puppy. They require constant attention, and those tiny bladders are relentless.
{ Top | Skirt | Similar Jacket | Similar Wedges one, two and three | Purse | Necklace }
Black Skirts for all Shapes and Sizes!
After I wrapped up a round of edits and sent the files back to my editor, I decided some real clothes were in order—jeans, a little makeup, and my favorite flats. I pulled out a vest I’ve owned for over a year but somehow only worn once. It felt good to give it another go. I tested the vest with two different tops to show how a single layering piece can change the vibe of an outfit: one look with a coral top for a brighter, more playful feel, and one with a white top for a classic, understated style.
I personally gravitated toward the coral top; it felt fresh and felt like the right mood for the night I left the house. The white top is a reliable alternative and looks sharp and clean, especially if you want the vest to be the focal point. Both options are easy to replicate and work well with jeans and comfortable flats.
{ Jeans | Coral Top | White Top | Similar Vest one and two | Flats | Necklace }
Spice Up Your Outfit with a Vest!
My flats deserve a special mention. You’ve probably seen them here before because I wear them almost constantly—the comfort level is unbeatable, and they don’t rub or scrape at my ankles. For days when I want to be on my feet but still look pulled together, they’re my go-to. Pairing comfortable flats with a vest and jeans is an easy way to create an outfit that feels both relaxed and purposeful.
Some quick styling tips if you want to try these looks:
– For a casual daytime look, pair the vest with a coral or bright-colored top and mid-rise jeans. Add comfortable flats and a simple necklace to complete the outfit.
– For an evening out, switch to a white top under the vest, add slightly dressier shoes or wedges, and toss on a small purse.
– If you own several skirts, a black skirt is a versatile piece that pairs nicely with both vests and structured tops—choose the skirt silhouette that flatters your shape and wear it with tights and boots for cooler weather or sandals in the spring and summer.
Even in weeks when life is busy and my wardrobe leans toward the comfortable, it’s satisfying to play with simple combinations and rediscover pieces I haven’t worn in a while. Little moments—like an impromptu puppy date—remind me that style should be fun and adaptable to whatever the day brings.
Disclosure: Some of the items mentioned above may be affiliated. If you choose to purchase a product referenced here, I may receive a small commission. I only recommend products I use personally and believe will add value to readers.