Even though it doesn't feel like it yet, fall is approaching.   After this crazy hot summer we've had, I am quite looking forward to cozy sweaters, leggings and jeans, scarves, and hot cocoa.  More importantly, retailers are busting out their fall trends and introducing new colors, prints, and looks for the season.  I have been excitedly watching my favorite stores to see what spins they put on upcoming fall fashion.  Catherines is introducing their Art of the Mix collection, dedicated to clean lines, boho details, tunics, ponchos, animal print, and a gorgeous dose of red.





To highlight this new transitioning-into-fall collection, Catherines asked four of their Style Ambassadors to choose a trend and style it in our own way.  I chose this peasant top in a beautiful shade of red, along with the dip-dyed stretch jean.  Each blogger is rockin' a different look, and you can vote for your favorite look for a chance to win a $500 fall wardrobe from Catherines!!




The Monique Peasant is a gauzy tunic-length top in a deep red hue.  I just love this color!  The top features three-quarter sleeves and an open-knit crochet detail at the neckline, along with decorative tassels.  Side slits at the hem and sleeves, and pin-tucking below the crochet and at the neckline in the back, round out the detailing.  The fabric is gauzy and light but not as sheer as you might think.  From this back picture below, you can vaguely see the outline of the brown tank I am wearing underneath.  The open-crochet neckline comes down below the bust, so it definitely requires a tank.  I chose a dark brown one I had in my closet to compliment my laid-back, earthy look.  There is a little bit of stretch to the fabric also.  I am wearing this top in a 2X (which translates to a 22/24 at Catherines).  Because of the flowy fabric and more relaxed fit, I could possibly size down.


A great partner to the peasant top is this pair of the dip-dyed True Stretch Jean.  I am wearing a 2X (22/24) and they feel pretty true to size.  The fabric is true to the name as they are very stretchy, very comfortable, soft jeans.  Again, I could have possibly sized down waist-wise, but the 2X pair fit my thighs very well.  This more straight-leg silhouette fades into a lighter shade just below the knee.  An elastic waist offers a more personalized fit and super comfort.  They also feature a zip and button closure.  At 5'9", these jeans fit my leg length just perfectly.  Petite sizes from 0X to 5X are available online for sure but will vary at your local Catherines store.

In styling this look, I wanted it to be relaxed and perfect for summer.  I rolled up the jeans, stepped into some red sandals, and popped on a lovely wooden necklace (also from Catherines). 


In the spirit of the mix, I also styled this outfit for a more fall appropriate look.  Roll down the jeans, replace the sandals with booties, and swap the wooden necklace for a stretch belt that adds more structure to the top. A scarf and/or jacket can also easily be added to fend off the chillier air.


Monique Peasant Top - c/o Catherines
True Stretch Jean - c/o Catherines
Woodland Necklace - Catherines
Annika Slide Sandal - c/o Propet USA
Black Booties - Torrid
Black Stretch Belt - Lane Bryant Outlet
Lipstick - NARS Velvet Matte Lip Pencil in Cruella

I wore this look out to dinner for tasty seafood Happy Hour at one of our favorite local eateries.  They have an all gluten-free menu of delightful options.  Plus, it's nice that I can order off a menu and don't have to worry about any extra ingredients that may contain gluten.  We dined on mini shrimp quesadillas, cheese curds, and a crab pepper cheese soup that is to die for!