“Check It Out” is a phrase that was popular in the 60s and 70s….meaning “this is so cool, you have to look at it!” That’s exactly how I feel about this week’s article and Pinterest board.  

 So, two things I love about checks:

…Checks look great on everyone, even guys,

…and they give a fresh vibe to a summer wardrobe.

Let’s start from the bottom and work our way up.  What says fun more than a pair of checked shoes?  Whether you are wearing sneakers or high heels, this print will bring a whole lot of personality to your ensemble.  A pair of blue gingham bow slides by Jeffrey Campbell will add extra cuteness to any casual outfit. Think about wearing them with a pair of light blue jeans, white blouse, and a bandana tied around your neck. Another great look from J. Crew is a jacket worn with jeans and checked flats. Sounds like the perfect match to me!

With a pair of checked culottes or slacks add a white sleeveless pull-over top or a button down blouse tied at the waist.  All you need to complete the look are sandals or summer wedges, the perfect complement for your outfit.  My favorite summer go-to piece is a skirt, and there are so many cute checked ones to choose from.  A look I love on our Pinterest Board is a blue and white checked midi skirt worn with a blue blouse tucked in and a pair of red heels.  To give it a more casual look, I would tie the shirt at the waist and wear it with a pair of red sandals.  Banana Republic has really stepped it up a fashion notch as of late!  Their black and white checked midi pencil skirt is on my must-have list!

Okay, here a personal question: Do you have a checkered past?  I hope so, because that probably means you have some awesome checked pieces in your closet. There is nothing I love more than restyling a client’s wardrobe because there are so many ways to repurpose outfits.  A creative way to do that these days is with print mixing.  Checked pieces are a great way to try this trend.  I love mixing checks with polka-dots, stripes, and even florals. The main idea is to stay in the same color family.  

Are you looking for a way to liven up your office look?  Then, why not do it with a checked pattern. From dresses, skirts, and jackets, there are so many fun options out there.  A look that can take you from the office to a party is a black and white checked midi skirt worn with a white short sleeved blouse.  And remember, a

bright hued handbag always complements a black and white look. Another great office look is a gingham checked pencil skirt worn with a blue chambray blouse. Just drape a blazer or jacket over your shoulders.  And to all of that I say…check mate!

So now for the fun stuff…sundresses and off-the-shoulder tops!  These looks are great for summer patio parties or a vacation in a quaint beach town. I’m thinking Carmel by the Sea!

Though no matter where your destination is, all you need to add to your beach style is a cute pair of white sneakers, or a pair of pom-pom sandals. For some extra cuteness add a floppy hat and shades.  Doesn’t that make you want to book a beach vacay!  

But before you book your hotel and flight, be sure to “check out” our Pinterest board….you just have to look at it!!!

Holley Williams is a personal stylist specializing in closet inventory, seasonal shopping, closet organization and wardrobe consultation.  Contact Holley at [email protected].