How to Wear a Peasant Top

Peasant shirts were popular in early 2000, but then they failed to impress and became a fashion don't. This season, though, they're everywhere and are becoming a huge trend. Here's how to make a peasant top look chic with modern touches and special little details:

1. Instead of reaching for an embroidered, beaded, completely bohemian-style shirt, try one that has a fun all over floral print like the one above. The short sleeves lend a more casual feel and the self-tie closure keyhole is a nice detail on an otherwise simple silhouette.
2. Pair it with slim-fitting jeans, to counterbalance the loose top. We suggest a darker wash to keep the outfit a little sophisticated.
3. Pick a bag that's simple in shape, but big on details. We love the braided straps on the shoulderbag above. As for shoes, make sure they don't take attention away from the shirt and bag. We chose the ankle boot for its minimalist design and color (matching the bag). The foldover 'cuff' at the top is just enough detail to pull everything together.
4. Don't over load on the accessories. It isn't neccesary to have any, but you can add a charming gold bracelet for a touch of femininity.

Tell us, would you wear a peasant top? If so, how would you wear it? Share in your comments?

Family Reunion: Dresses for Petites Over 40

Q: My family is having another reunion, and I don't know what to wear. I've lost 30 lbs. since the last one, so I would like to show off my new look, but I'm a petite woman, and it's hard to find flattering dresses. What can I wear to an outdoor family get-together? By the way, I'm over 40, so this is a challenge.

A: Congratulations on your weight loss! You're right, this is a challenge, but not something we can't handle. As a petite, you should look for dresses that hit at or right above the knee; anything lower than that will "cut your legs in half" and make you look even shorter. Tapered/straight skirts or A-line skirts will flatter you most, and be sure they are high-waisted or have an empire waist, because they will elongate your legs. Wrap dresses would also work well. Another tip? It's best to wear a dress with a higher neckline for a taller look (no plunging tops for you). As for your age, you should stay away from strapless dresses, and ones that are way too short (think 5 inches above your knee).

Remember to pay attention to details. Vertical buttons, seam lines, pleats, etc. will definitely flatter your body. Also, when it comes to patterns, keep them simple or small-- don't wear loud, oversized prints, because they'll overwhelm your petite frame. Stay away from big horizontal lines, too-loose or stiff pieces, and too many embellishments and details. Another thing to remember when choosing your dress: make sure the bottom hem isn't too busy and the skirt isn't extremely full. And when belting a dress, make it a neutral color (brown, black, cream) and wear it above your natural waistline for a more flattering style.

If it gets a little chilly outside, pick a jacket/coat that's simple and above the knee, just like the dress. Try to get one that's cropped or has an empire waist. Any lapels should be narrow and short (ending above your natural waistline). Same with belts on the jacket-- they should be above the waistline. This keeps you looking taller. So just remember: keep things simple and short. Here are 7 of our favorite age-appropriate dresses for petites, whatever your budget (and you don't have to wear these just once):

Our Under $50 Choices:

Ruffle Woven Wrap Dress $27.80 at Forever 21

Women's Tie-Waist Shirtdress $29.50 at Old Navy

Sleeveless Pocket Front Dress $42.75 at ASOS

Our Over $50 Choices:

Petite Silk/Cotton Floral Dress SALE $84.99 at Banana Republic

Suzi Chin Maggy Boutique Stretch Satin Dress $118.00 at Nordstrom

Suzi Chin Maggy Boutique Sleeveless Ruffle Wrap Dress $148.00 at Nordstrom

Donna Ricco Ruffle Neck Silk Dress $158.00 at Nordstrom

Tory Burch Patricia Silk Twill Dress $475.00 at Nordstrom

Retro Floral Peasant Top

Peasant shirts are in style once again! Wear this cute top with a pair of jeans for a cute and casual bohemian vibe. Nothing beats this easy, breezy look.

$19.80 at Forever 21

Splurge or Save: Strapless Pleated Party Dress

These hot pink numbers are perfect for partying. But why spend $70 on a new Nordstrom dress when you can get a practically identical one for a fraction of the price?

Effortless Summer Style in a Cardigan + Chambray Shirt

How to get this look:

1. Choose a comfortable chambray button-down shirt that isn't too fitted or too loose; a 'boyfriend fit' would work just right. It should be easy to move around in so that you can wear it anywhere. Layer it over a soft, white tee.
2. Throw on a long, v-neck cardigan in a neutral color over the chambray shirt and roll/fold up the sleeves a bit for a more relaxed, summery feel. The cardigan should not fit tightly over the shirt, but comfortably. Leave them both unbuttoned.
3. Pair your tops with a lightweight pair of white shorts (white shorts make everything look more put-together), to contrast the length of the cardigan. Your shorts shouldn't be too short; they should have between a 3-4 inch inseam.
4. Pick casual flat sandals that are easy to walk in. Try a white pair, or one that matches the color of your cardigan.
5. As for accessories, keep it simple. After all, this is an 'effortless summer outfit'. Just add a couple of feminine touches, such as pearl bracelets.
6. Finally, wear a bag in a bright almost complementary color (like the yellow handbag above) to keep the ensemble from looking completely boring.

How do you wear a cardigan in the summer? Share ideas in your comments!

5 Chic & Versatile Work Dresses

Over the years, looks have become more and more important to women. Why shouldn't they matter at the workplace? Here are 5 stylish options that can be worn inside the office, or out.

Dressy Jersey Cinched Dress $78.00 at J Crew

Cotton Sheath Dress SALE $79.99 at Banana Republic

Long-Sleeve Faux-Wrap Dress $98.00 at Banana Republic

Donna Ricco Sleeveless Sheath Dress $118.00 at Nordstrom

Super 120s Papillion Dress $195 at J Crew

$100 and Under: Hot Party Dresses

With summer heating up so quickly, there are many more chances to go out and party. This means it's time to buy gorgeous new dresses! Here are 4 of our favorites for those warm sunny days, all for under $100:

One-Shoulder Colorblock Dress $24.99 at Charlotte Russe

Feather Print Chiffon Maxi Dress $27.80 at Forever 21

Twist Strap Babydoll Dress SALE $29.00 at Arden B

Chiffon Halter Ruffle Dress $78.00 at Arden B

The 80s Are Back for Summer 2009 With: Jelly Sandals

The 80s favorite is making a comeback, and they're stylish as ever. These plastic shoes are given bold colors and fun details, making them a huge trend this season. Still unsure about them? Give one of these pairs a try; they're a great way to beat the summer heat.

Stone Accented Jelly Sandal SALE $14.99 at Avon

Ralph Lauren Collection Women's Karly Jelly Sandals SALE $136.50 at Bloomingdale's

Tod's Jelly Thong Sandal SALE $117.00 at Neiman Marcus

Josefina Short in Vintage Nakita

The hottest shorts this summer are clean-cut, cuffed, and much longer than your average daisy dukes, and these bermudas are just that. Pair it with anything, from a comfy button-down shirt to a casual fitted tee. No matter what, you'll look stylish.

$169 at 7 For All Mankind