This week I’ll be sharing more elegant versions of pieces youth can’t live without.
Rubber Slides to Mules
Slides are still around! They were in one of my trend posts last year too. Honestly, I’m still not the biggest fan of slides. I see them as the same category as crocs…comfortable, but best just worn at home. Personally, it feels like wearing an indoor slipper out. Am I being too harsh?
The mule is an easy, flat shoe that can be thrown on anytime. They’re a more “grown up” version of slide shoes.
Hoodies to Cardigans
For a long time, I didn’t know which type of cardigans to buy. I read in a magazine that you either get a long, oversize cardigan or a fitted, Chanel-like cardigan. That piece of advice stuck with me and I’ve loved oversize cardigans since.
If you’re a fellow cold-blooded person, you’d know to never leave the house without an extra layer. I find that the cardigan is the more put-together, fashion-forward version of a simple hoodie.
Leggings to Leathery Pants
Remember the “are leggings pants???” debate? It feels like such a long time ago! My stance was that leggings are acceptable pants as long as they were opaque.
In cooler weather, I basically live in leggings…partly because finding pants that fit well is so difficult! Leathery pants are more flattering for the legs than plain leggings. Depending on the material’s stretch, leathery pants can also be incredibly comfortable. And they also go with everything! What’s your stance on leather pants plus leather jacket? Do you find that badass or too excessive? I’m on team badass here.
Denim Shorts to Tie Waist Shorts
I love tattered denim shorts just as much as I love tattered jeans. If dress codes didn’t exist, I would dress post apocalyptic every day. There wouldn’t be a single piece in my wardrobe that didn’t have rips, holes, or studs.
Anyways, I can’t be the only one who finds tie-waist shorts adorable! They’re just so sophisticated and lady-like. Even if they’re paired with something super casual (like a graphic tee), they add a polished touch to the outfit.
Casual Sneakers to Slide on Sneakers
In China last year, I noticed the trend of wearing feminine dresses with very casual sneakers. Beautiful dresses with ruffle details and pastel prints would be worn with basic, well-loved sneakers. It was such a interesting juxtaposition.
I can’t remember when exactly dressier sneakers became common. No more having to wear heels to look professional! I remember seeing Micheal Kors slide on sneakers at Nordstrom a few years ago and felt like I had to have a pair. Just recently, I finally bought a pair for a great price. Breaking them in has been slow-going, but I’m determined!
I’m the type of person who could look like an heiress one day and peasant the next. It was very interesting finding casual and dressy versions of the same concept.
Agree/disagree with my comparisons? Do you have some of your own?
Hugs and kisses,
~ Jin
You can also find me on my personal blog
Life Outside of Design Studio 
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