Blog: Crossroads Style

The debate over comfort and style have recently come to a head. The two do not have to be mutually exclusive. Is it perhaps that our definition of style and the traditional aesthetic are gradually changing over time? Fashion used to be used as a way to speak to one’s social and economic status, and in some ways it still is. Not everyone can afford designer clothing and accessories and all it takes is a simple Google search to confirm the price of something, therein by being able to pigeonhole one in a category.
Maybe as time has passed and humanity has evolved, we no longer feel the need to separate ourselves by social and economic classes, thereby making us feel more comfortable with being, well (physically) more comfortable. Whatever the reason is that comfort is seeming prevailing over (traditional) style aesthetic, check out 5 trends that are more comfortable than classically stylish.

“Dad” Shoes

From trainers to “mandals”, or man sandals, the “Dad” shoe trend has been steadily gaining traction since the popularity of the chunky trainer last year. This season, the trend continues with the dad sandal, or “mandal”. While some brands are producing these sandals with more feminine touches and prints, the basic man sandal is trending on style bloggers, fashion influencers, and the runway. The rise of dad shoes, as with flat shoes in general, prove that comfort is trending over style in footwear.

Fanny Packs

Fanny packs, or belt bags as the modern updated style has been coined, have seeming begun replacing larger bulky bags, designer bags, and trend-ridden bags. The smaller, more compact style of a belt bag is more comfortable to wear, convenient on the go, and forces us to de-clutter our lives. And let’s face it, when our purse is clean and organized, our life begins to feel more clean and organized.

The Demise of Skinny Jeans

We will always love our skinny jeans; there is no question about that. But we have seen a rise in a more relaxed fitting denim and pant style, in general, the last few fashion seasons. I, for one, am all for this trend, of course, still loving my skinnies and wearing them with pride, but as a mom of a busy toddler, I must say that I am enjoying bottoms with a bit more room to breathe lately.

Bike & Bermuda Shorts

While neither are my cup of style tea, I appreciate the sentiment of longer, more comfortable shorts, whether it is because they are spandex or a looser fitting knee length short, over a more traditional style of denim shorts that are cut too short and will inevitably ride up.

Athleisure

Athleisure has long been the uniform of many stay-at-home moms, the quick option when needing to run all the errands on a weekend, and the look of the gym rat. But athleisure has since expanded its repertoire to anyone who needs just a bit more comfort in their life.

One of my favorite ways to gain outfit inspiration is through Instagram! Whether I am watching my favorite blogger’s latest shopping haul, scrolling through the feeds of my favorite retail stores or exploring a trend through a hashtag, I am always bound to find fresh outfit ideas that make me want to try something new with my style! With style inspiration in abundance and constantly at our fingertips (thank you social media), I went ahead pulled together some of my favorite spring-ready outfits, styled by some totally chic fashionistas, featuring their #CrossroadsFinds! These stylish women have found some trendy spring/summer-ready pieces at their local Crossroads and have totally inspired me to keep an eye out for similar styles the next time I do some shopping!

Crossroads Find: White framed Sunnies

Accessories can make or break an outfit, and it’s safe to say that Beatriz’s sunnies make this cute outfit even more perfect for soaking up that sunshine in!

Crossroads Find: White Booties

White footwear is hotter than ever this season and I love how how Kayla paired these chic and versatile booties with cut-off denim and a bodysuit. Also, these gorgeous booties are by Joie-such a style steal!

Crossroads Find: Bold T-Shirt

Charnele effortlessly shows us how to make a statement this season with a bold tee! A pop of color is the perfect way to spruce up the timeless denim/t-shirt combo!

Crossroads Find: Neutrals

No matter the season, you can always trust the neutrals in your wardrobe! Aisha scored this figure-flattering, beige colored top from Crossroads and I love how she played with proportions by pairing it with a wide leg trouser and heeled sandals!

Crossroads Find: Fringe

How fun is this leather fringe crossbody bag?! Rae’s outfit is right in line with the western trend this season!

Gone are the days when women had two swimsuit options for the beach: a bikini that left you feeling too exposed or a standard one-piece swimsuit that felt too covered up. Let’s be real – we’re all glad that one-piece swimsuits have stepped up their game over the past few years and have come out with such fun details and styles. Now, you can feel and look your best in a suit without feeling like you’re baring it all. Still not convinced that one-piece styles can’t be fashion forward? Scroll on for some swimsuit inspiration!

Here are 6 one-piece swimsuits that we can’t take our eyes off of:

Low-Back Details

Plunge head first and pick up a one-piece with some flirty details like a low-back.

Try Cutouts

Take a walk on the wild side and pick up a dramatic one-piece with cutout designs on the sides like Christine from Hello Fashion Blog!

Crisscross Details

We’d take any excuse to wear this one-piece with crisscross details in the front! Look for swimsuits with the underwire bra detail for extra support.

Dual Pattern Swimsuit

There’s no better way to make a statement than by wearing a swimsuit with dual patterns on it.

Halter Designs

I have to admit, cut-out one-pieces can be hard to pull off sometimes. However, when you find a halter piece like this one, you can’t say no!

Wear Solid Colors

If you’re searching for a swimsuit it that you can wear over and over, stick to pieces that come in solid colors! The best part? They can easily double as a bodysuit!

Gone are the days when corset pieces held a bad reputation in the fashion world. Now, you can find them in a multitude of styles from t-shirts, to lace-up dresses, to belts. We have to admit, there’s something about them that makes us feel instantly more stylish when we wear them.

Keep scrolling to see which ones made our roundup:

A Pair and a Spare makes styling a corset belt look like a piece of cake! Fashion tip: wear one over a loose shirt to accentuate your waistline.
 

Nail the perfect going-out look with a sequined top.
 

If you’re looking for a piece that’s more subtle, opt for a shirt that ties in the front.
 

Aimee Song of Song of Style hits the fashion jackpot with this white corset dress. The lace-up details in the front give it an extra bit of flair.
 

Worn under a jacket, as done here, this corset belt creates a layered look that isn’t too over-the-top.
 

Go for a cropped corset top that will turn heads all day long the next time you’re out and about.

Trust us, you’ll want to update your closet with a few corset pieces this season!

Summer may be coming to an end sooner than we want, but that doesn’t mean that your favorite fashion trends have to be stashed away in the back of your closet until next year. Fall is all about layering and transitional dressing, meaning it’s easier than ever to get the most out of your summer wardrobe.

Here are three summer trends you can take into the fall season, plus how to style them for the cooler weather!

1. Silky Slip Skirts and Dresses

Top your silky slip with a chunky knit sweater and a great pair of boots, and you’ll have a new go-to outfit this fall!

2. Neon Colors

The weather may be a bit more dreary in the fall, but that doesn’t mean your wardrobe has to be. From sweaters to accessories and makeup, don’t be afraid to bring your favorite bright and bold neon colors into fall.

3. Breezy White Dresses

Breaking the rule of not wearing white after Labor Day has become almost expected—fall and winter whites are now a wardrobe staple! Layer up your favorite white summer dresses, or look for a white dress with full, exaggerated sleeves and finish it with a pair of your favorite sneakers or booties.