5 Easy Ways to Style Belts During the Summer

Memorial Day weekend marks the start of Summer — according to my calendar! And what that means is that linen clothing, bold colors, and dresses start to take center stage. I recently purchased this colorful midi linen dress from J.Crew and I have been obsessed with it. It checks all the Summer boxes and delivers so much versatility. The midi length means it can be worn to just about any occasion and settings — office included. If you're taller like some of us, you'll appreciate that this dress comes in tall sizes. The color is another perk of this garment. The poppy red makes a bold statement without being too flamboyant (it also comes in black if you prefer to keep it toned down). And perhaps the part I love the most is the sleeveless shirtdress design. It means the dress can be worn many different ways and who doesn't like that?

Now, let's take a look at some easy outfits I have put together with this red midi shirtdress.

1. Red Shirtdress with High Heels

Elevating a simple shirtdress to officewear level is as simple as pairing it with dressy high heels. For this look, I wore this J.Crew linen dress with black pointy toe stiletto heels and a matching skinny belt. To give it a French chic flair, I added a silk scarf as a neckerchief. The looks is polished without being stiff and that makes for a perfect Summer work outfit.

2. Red Shirtdress with Sneakers

To give a linen dress a casual vibe, wear it with sneakers. Sneakers not only give you all the comfort you need to run around town, they also impart a laid-back vibe to an otherwise structured look. For this casual chic outfit, I wanted a little contrast to play up the bold red so I opted for ivory leather sneakers, a neutral cropped blazer and a matching leather bag. This combo creates a little playfulness that works well for weekend errands and casual social events.

3. Red Shirtdress with Jeans

When it comes to versatile clothing, shirtdresses are true heros. In fact, a shirtdress can be styled on its own or layered to create interesting dimension. Because this red dress has a fit-and-flare silhouette, I wanted to try pairing it with something flowy, like wide-leg pants. I opted for extra wide-leg blue jeans to keep the look breezy and give it some patriotic contrast too. And because it's Cowboy Carter season, I went for a bit of a western touch with a straw cowboy hat. I finished the look with a large straw tote and raffia sandals to play up the Summer vibe. 

4. Red Shirtdress with Flat Shoes

Before getting into this one, we should take a moment to groove on the seamed details that adorn this red shirtdress. They create beautiful texture and give definition to the flare silhouette. When looking for a linen dress, going for a simple piece with refined craftsmanship ensures that your investment will deliver classic and timeless style. And let's just say, J.Crew hit the mark with this piece. Another way that I have styled this red dress is by pairing it with a wide black leather belt, studded black slingback flats, and a large leather tote. I was going for a classic look with a bit of an edge. This is a versatile outfit that can be worn to the office, to a coffee or lunch date, and upscale shopping.

5. Monochrome Red Shirtdress Outfit

Matching colors from head to toe is a style move that never fails. It works well for neutral hues, and also for bright colors. To achieve an effortless chic monochromatic outfit with this red linen shirtdress, simply pair it with matching flat shoes and go with the assorted sash belt. 

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A post shared by Brandy Gueary - Color Expert & Stylist (@authentically.b)

Which look would you wear? Let me know in the comments!

Tracksuits aren’t just for lounging anymore—they’ve evolved into street-style essentials that can be dressed up or down with ease. If you’ve ever wondered how to transform a tracksuit from casual to effortless chic, the answer lies in mixing and matching it with wardrobe heros such as a trench coat, a crisp white shirt, and pointy heels. These pieces add a touch of elegance to the sporty vibe, making for well-balanced looks that can be both trendy and refined.  

Tracksuits come in many styles and many colors, ranging from the mainstream black and neutrals to more vibrant hues. I recently purchased these track pants and track jacket and though they come in neutral and dark blue options, I went for the bright orange because it is a statement color—bold, vibrant, and full of energy. Plus this shade radiates confidence while remaining playful, making it perfect for a variety of occasions. Another reason to love this set is its lightweight pique fabric. It feels breathable, extra comfortable, and drapes beautifully.

Not sure how to style this bright tracksuit? Here are four ways to wear it, whether you’re going all-in on sporty luxe or opting for a sleek, structured mix.

1. Full Tracksuit with Pointy Pumps 

If athleisure style is your thing and you like your outfits to have that loungewear feel, then pairing your tracksuit top and bottom as a matching outfit is the way to go. Just layer a crisp white tee under your track jacket for a refreshing contrast. And to elevate this otherwise sporty casual ensemble, throw on pointy toe pumps and a structured leather tote.

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2. Tracksuit Pants with an Oversized White Shirt and Pointy Pumps  

To strike a balance between casual sporty and effortless chic, swap the tracksuit top for an oversized white shirt. I went for a shirt with lace detailing to go along the sporty mood while maintaining a polished touch. You can leave the shirt completely untucked for a cool, relaxed vibe or french-tuck it if you prefer to balance your outfit proportions. To give the look that elevated touch, wear pointed-toe pumps. I reached for my favorite off-white pumps to accent the orange and white contrast, but black or brown pumps would also work well with this look.  

3. Tracksuit Pants with a Cropped Trench Jacket and Pointy Pumps  

A cropped trench jacket introduces a tailored element to the sporty, relaxed vibe. Wear the trench closed with the belt cinched to create a defined silhouette and elevate the look. Step into sharp pointy pumps for a chic-meets-sporty look.  

4. Tracksuit Top with Jeans and Sneakers

If you want to maintain the casual allure of the tracksuit, one way to mix and match it is to pair the top with jeans. This combo gives off a laid-back aesthetic that works perfectly for weekend errands and sporting events. I opted for these baggy jogger jeans that I have worn on repeat lately! To play up the sporty chic allure, I went for some color coordination and added my Adidas Samba sneakers in a matching bright orange. Those tie in perfectly with the tracksuit’s sporty DNA.  And I accessorized with aviator sunnies to keep in tune with the cool and sporty chic look. You could also throw on a baseball cap for more street-style edge.  

A bright orange tracksuit is the ultimate fashion wildcard—versatile, comfortable, and striking. By balancing its sporty nature with structured pieces like heels, trench jackets, and oversized shirts, you can create pulled-together yet relaxed ensembles. 

Are you ready to get into a tracksuit? Let me know which look speaks to you most!