< Off the Shoulder >

I am all about the off the shoulder look that's happening this season! I think there is something very demure about the way a loose fitted shirt drapes when it shows off the shoulder. I've recently been looking into making a few of these tops and dresses from my favorite DIY blog - A Pair and A Spare - see here and here. However, I found this little number at a cute boutique called Merge. I mentioned in an earlier post that I would give a few tips about how to boutique shop. Don't worry, it's coming soon! Check back next week for A Guide to Boutique Shopping.

Temperatures have been over 100 lately without the heat index, so I opted for loose fitted shorts with this top. Both items are made of cotton and breathe well. To keep the outfit from looking overwhelming, I added a pair of wedges. They are comfortable to walk in (despite their soaring height), but still lengthen the leg. When you are shopping for a wedge, look for colors in your same skin tone. These are peach, but I've oftentimes worn beige/nude ones (see here, here and here).

Also, a great tote is a must in my weekend and workday wear. I usually carry an extra pair of shoes in case I need to change. They are great when you go shopping - it's easy to throw in whatever you just purchased whether it be a quick trip to a grocery store or if you are out buying new clothing. I picked this one up season before last, but there are several others I wear pretty frequently like this Ted Baker one which I have in 3 colors.

Top: Merge Boutique -- Flying Tomato (similar here) // Wedges: Qupid // Sunnies: Random but similar here // Tote: Betsey Johnson // Shorts: Mudd (old but love these)