mark eyelet dress

 

Eyelet is popping up everywhere right now, providing pretty, slightly old-fashioned detailing on everything from the dress at left (by Mark) to the Converse sneakers pictured below. It’s an easy way to add femininity to an outfit, and it’s sweet without being too cutesy. The wide weave of the eyelet also provides some welcome ventilation in the sticky summer months! Other affordable pieces to consider:

 

 

 

The cute eyelet clutch, also by Mark, has a very ladylike, Southern belle feel about it. Clutches are such an elegant alternative to the huge bags most women carry! The black dress (also available in white) is from Delia*s, and the best part is the removable belt, which can be tied in a bunch of different ways to create various looks, or left off entirely if you’re so inclined. The white blouse and skirt are from Forever 21, and both scream "SUMMER!" to me - and the pink Converse eyelet sneakers (found on Zappos) are just incredibly fun. I love the contrast of the girly color and eyelet fabric with the hip, casual, slightly boyish shape of the shoe.