Daytime Bodycon

On Friday, I took my first ever cardio barre class… and I woke up Saturday morning completely sore! Every muscle – even muscles I didn’t know existed – ached with the smallest movement! Despite nearly dying from the fast-paced workout sets during the class, I’m determined to stick with it to the end of my 10-class package deal. The instructor made it fun and the agonizing hour went by faster than I had initially expected. Plus, the burn reaffirms to me that I did indeed work out and actually accomplished something with my body during that one hour. Nine more classes to go! When it comes to working out, the important thing to remember is that you’re not doing it just to look good for the summer but rather to also protect your own health – we only get one life, so do what you have to do to protect it.

Maybe it was the workout, or maybe it was simply because of the chilly temperature (which I have been LOVING), but I didn’t give much of a second thought to squeezing into my old but trusty sweater dress from Express. It’s such an old favorite because despite the bodycon silhouette, the ruching and the colorblocked side panels offer a slimming illusion, which is always welcome! To downplay the formality of a tight sweater dress and make it more daytime appropriate, I added a long but lightweight cardigan as an outer layer. A good outerwear adds additional depth and complexity to an outfit, and it’s always helpful to remember something called “the three piece rule.” One of the easiest ways to make an otherwise run-of-the-mill outfit appear more polished and unique is to involve at least three pieces (not including your shoes) in your look. Your pants/skirt and top are your first and second pieces, so when it comes to the third piece, think of jackets, blazers, sweaters, vests, or statement accessories.

Thanks so much for reading! Have a GREAT Monday!

Dress: Express (similar)
Cardigan: Forever 21
Boots: Tahari (similar)
Bag: Kate Spade (similar here, here and here)