I've always been a sucker for J. Crew, probably because in my heart, I'm a total prep. All through junior high, I rocked the popped-collar Izod shirts (hot pink & kelly green, baby!) and Sperry topsiders and never really got over the fad. Today my closet is stocked with a good amount of conservative basics - from button-down shirts to crewneck sweaters - but I like to mix them in with other colorful, more trendy pieces so they're not too stuffy, lest I get mistaken for the absent-minded professor that wandered off campus.
J Crew shirt (similar, similar); Target tank; Joe's Jeans; Forever 21 necklace (similar, similar) Crown Vintage shoes (similar; simliar); Victorinox watch
This gingham shirt is a prepster wardrobe staple - I know because I'm reaching for it constantly. The navy & white combo is a perfect neutral to layer under brighter colors: bright yellow, green or orange - they all work! Here I rolled up the sleeves and left it untucked for an easy, casual look. Layered over a comfy tank and paired with a pair of boyfriend jeans, I feel put together without trying too hard.
To add some fun texture and color, I added a chunky teal bead necklace and some red mary janes. Though we're still experiencing a pretty warm fall, this look would also work with a colored pea coat or blazer thrown over it if the weather were chillier.
Side note: you know what someone needs to invent? A self-timer camera app that also tells you when you're somewhat centered in the frame.
And speaking of centered - what pieces does your wardrobe revolve around?
