For reference #04
Looks I’m saving, notes and links vol. 4: Refreshed classics, including white + black, stripes, and lace.
This series is my attempt to make my scrolling useful by sharing with you the looks I’m saving for future reference, notes on what I like about them and a few links. Occasionally, I might share how I tried to recreate a look that inspired me.
Think of these as a collection of ideas for real-life dressing.
I find most of my inspiration for getting dressed on Instagram and (now) Substack. Am I ever “influenced”? Sure. But I try to be mindful of not buying everything I see and like. Mostly, I find the practice of having references helpful for knowing how to put together similar pieces I have in my closet and narrowing down my shopping list.
I’ll share a few links here as that’s something I would want if I were looking for a particular piece—though I always suggest sleeping on things first to avoid buying something you don’t need. More than anything, what I hope you get from these are some good ideas, not the urge to shop more.
Lately, it’s been a balancing act between writing for clients and trying to squeeze in time to write this newsletter. When I’m writing about personal finance all day, shifting my attention to fashion and style honestly becomes a welcomed reprieve.
I wanted to put together a roundup of what’s catching my eye and inspiring me this season, which is really a random mix of things, but I think one way to look at it is mostly as a refresh of the classics—what’s old is new again.
White + black looks, stripes, and lace—here’s a peek at what I’ve been saving for reference.
White + black looks: For a while, it felt like brown was the new black, and I was all about it. Now, I find myself gravitating towards the starker contrast of black and white again to change things up. I love the simplicity of this outfit and that it consists of things most of us already have in our closets: a white tee and jeans with a black belt and flats. The added pop of colour is a nice touch.
Photo source: Pinterest Same idea, using pieces from my closet. Wore this on Tuesday for back-to-back (virtual) meetings, taking my daughter to piano lessons, then my son’s hockey game.
A good white tee from last summer + belt (not the best quality, maybe try this instead) + 501 90s jeans + Chanel ballet flats (I like these A.Emery ones on sale, or Margaux as alts.) + sunglasses (on sale) + Longchamp Le Pliage Orange tote from last season (this time, they have Tomato or Brick as similar options) 
Similar outfit but elevated with a more polished white jean (pretty sure she’s wearing these from Aligne), all black accessories and heels. Photo: @clairerose Was intrigued by these Babaton pants from Aritzia that look like a trouser, but a lot more relaxed (good for dressing up or down). I love the styling of these pants and think it would make a great office look. I’ve also been tying a black sweater around my waist when I don’t feel like wearing a belt.
Black and white date-night looks:
Love the pairing of a blazer with flip flops - another look I’ll try to recreate. Photo sources: Left / Right A breezy summer outfit:
Photo: @sophiachang Striped shirts: Not your average nautical white and navy striped shirt, but something that feels a bit more retro and worn-in. Something along the vibes of the Miu Miu striped shirt or The Row Juhi top, minus the out-of-this-world price tag. This one from Kallmeyer comes close.
Photo: @makenna_alyse Pair a striped shirt with slouchy jeans and ballet flats. Casual. Cool. Chic.
Photo: @smythsisters 
From Gap (!) on sale This one from COS feels a bit more modern, but I love the brown collar and how it’s styled with a long skirt.
Lace detail: I admit, lace can be tricky—sometimes, it can make a piece look cheap. But with the right execution, it can add a hint of elegance and romance to a look. I currently don’t have anything with lace in my closet, and it’s something I’ve got my eye on to add for the summer.
Photo: @helenannbyrne I’m leaning towards a silk or satin skirt with a lace trim (this Reformation Carolina Silk Skirt in Almond is at the top of my list.) I like the idea of dressing it down with a basic tank or t-shirt and flip flops. It works as a daytime look when you’ve got someplace nice to go.
Photo: @kimturkington_ The bottom lace trim of a blouse peeking underneath a layer also seems to be the move right now.
Photo: @selenamual This Lace Slit Top could be good for underneath and on its own (if you don’t mind showing a little skin.)
From Zara A look that combines both black + white and lace detail. Wish I knew where this dress was from.
Photo: @oliviasshoppingdiary
More for reference
A bit of a scattered mix, but now you got a peek at the looks currently living rent-free in my head. Would love to know which styles are jumping out to you or catching your eye this season?
*This post contains affiliate links, which means I may receive a small percentage from anything you purchase through a link, at no extra cost to you. Affiliate links help support the work that goes into these newsletters, and I carefully select recommendations based on what I love and would wear, regardless of a commission.
Maria, this outfit inspo is amazing! I've been wearing a lot of black and white lately and you've given me even more ideas for how to pair these colors.
love this series so much xx