Outfit Idea : A Nautical Twist

Along with all the holiday decor and outerwear that is overtaking all the stores, it’s also nearing the time for stores to showcase resort collections from designer labels.  Resort collection clothing and accessories are a selection of pieces that are specially made for the holiday season and run through January.

Basically, the pieces are targeted for those lucky few who go on holiday to some tropical location while the rest of us suffer through the cold temps, rain, sleet and snow.

If you’re one of those lucky jet-setters about to frolic on the sand with the crystal blue ocean as your backdrop or if you just want to channel the nautical look, below is an outfit that incorporates the ultimate nautical colour, navy with a bit of a twist.

Images: Forever 21, JCrew, Nordstrom

First let’s start off with something all of you should have in your closet, a white tee like this Forever 21 Fab V-Neck Tee ($3.50). This is the type of shirt you should have in a billion colours and this one is less than four dollars – get all the colours! A v-neck is flattering to just about everyone ,too.

Second, you’re going to need a beautiful navy skirt. This Forever 21 Dotted Swing Skirt ($19.80) is perfect! Don’t you love the tiny white polka dots? Too cute and super flattering as well.

The accent colour of this look is coral (to pay homage to those pretty coral reefs! )  and this cropped Heritage 81 Angora Short Sleeve Knit Cardigan ($22.90) is a great layering piece.  The slim silhouette of the tell and cardigan has a bit of a retro vibe which works well with the full skirt.

Top off the outfit with this fantastic double breasted JCrew Icon Trench Coat ($298). This is the type of trench coat you’ll wear for years, maybe even forever. The cut, style, shape and light khaki colour is perfect with any outfit which is why it works so well with this look.

Pick up more of the coral shade these pretty accessories, the Forever 21 Anisa Studded Bracelet ($7.80) and Mayah Flower Earrings ($5.80). Since the earrings are pretty ‘busy’ there’s no need for a necklace with this look. Too much jewelry can sometimes be overkill.

This Marc by Marc Jacobs Totally Turnlock Aggie Tote ($378) in Ink Blue is the perfect complimentary bag for this nautical colour scheme. It plays up the navy blue in the skirt very well.

For shoes you have lots of choices.  Wear boots if the weather is cold but I think these Elizabeth and James Linda Caged Pumps/Ankle Boots ($350) made out of dark blue stingray leather is to die for.  They give the look an edgy spin.

Then again, you can also play it safe and elongate those legs with taupe coloured heels like these Dolce Vita Beam Pumps ($139.95).  Or maybe wear a cute pair of navy blue ballet flats?  No matter what shoes you choose to wear the overall look is feminine, sophisticated and chic.

During the warmer months, put away the trench coat and throw on a pair of coral wedge sandals like these fun and flirty Kate Spade Lorna Wedge Sandals (on sale $196.90).  This is a great outfit to wear to the office or while you’re out and about.