Lookbook: A Spring Statement Skirt

Ann Taylor Skirt; J.Crew Perfect-Fit Long-Sleeve Tee; Ann Taylor Perfect Pumps; Ann Taylor Perfect Skinny Belt; AEO White Chronograph Watch; Tommy Hilfiger Sunglasses, DL40; H&M Earrings; Vintage Bracelet; Banana Republic Classic Trench

I picked up this skirt on sale at Ann Taylor last weekend and couldn't wait to post about it. It's extremely lightweight, doesn't wrinkle easily, doesn't ride up when I’m walking and is easy to pair with a variety of colors. Above, I’m wearing it with a simple mint green long-sleeve tee. I wanted to keep the rest of my outfit understated to highlight the skirt. Typically with statement pieces, I like to down-play other elements of the outfit.

My one issue with this skirt is that it’s about an inch too short (so typical for me!). I would have preferred it to be at knee level rather than above the knee, but the price was right and the colors are gorgeous, so I couldn’t resist!

Elevated Style Tip of the Week: Seek Outfit Inspiration

Outfit inspiration can sometimes come from very obvious places (like the March 2012 J.Crew catalog pictured above!). All you have to do is find something you like online or in a magazine, and then reproduce it with whatever you have available in your closet. It's basically foolproof!

You can even get inspiration from the pose, as I did! Looks like I need to work a bit on my modeling :)

A similar way to get outfit inspiration is to check out how the mannequins are dressed when you're out shopping. Since you know a professional styled them, this is a no-brainer. An added bonus is that if you like the look, you can buy the pieces.

For the most part, I like to come up with my own outfits, but I do have those days—just like everyone else—where I have no idea what to wear. That's when I pull out a J.Crew catalog or my pinterest account!

Lookbook: Navy as a Neutral

J.Crew Perfect-Fit Long-Sleeve Tee; J.Crew No. 2 Pencil Skirt in Double-Serge Cotton; Ralph Lauren Zabrina Pumps; J.Crew Scarf; DSW Wristlet; Tommy Hilfiger Sunglasses, DL40; Bracelets from H&M and J.Crew

Let's talk about the color navy blue. It's a great color for Spring, but I've always found it difficult to pair with something other than white. Above is an example of how navy blue can be used as a neutral with a vibrant green. If green's not your style, try pairing navy blue with poppy, bubblegum or turquoise. Feel free to use the color swatches below to find something in your closet that might match:

By the way, I mentioned that you'll see me wear lots of pencil skirts! Pencil skirts are definitely flattering for tall women and are worth having in a variety of colors.