Falling Early

We are kicking off August with FemmeLuxe week! And, since the weather has taken a nice little turn, I thought it would be fun to do some photos here in this beautiful rustic setting I call home. I typically prefer going into the city for my FemmeLuxe outfits, and I will definitely have a few cityscapes as well--I have some really great dynamic outfits on the way for you in a more urban setting--but I could not resist spending a little time out in nature on a cool sunny morning like this. No, the colors aren't changing yet, but I can tell that nature and all the things that live in harmony with nature have started making their autumn preparations.

To that end, and even though I am not really ready yet, I suppose it's time to start saying it—Summer is nearly over. I am not done enjoying the sunshine just yet, but already I can tell the season is changing. I don't mind looking ahead to autumn and all the scents of damp earth, home fires, and hearty stews cooking, not to mention all those lovely colors of red, gold and rust. However, rather than mourn summer, I thought I would get a head start on fall loveliness and kick off this month's FemmeLuxe week all in one go with this Ruched Square NeckBodycon Mini Dress—Gina.

With cooler weather on my mind, I chose this Gina mini dress because mini dresses really do offer some seasonal versatility. I can wear it now in summer as is, but I can also layer it up when things get a little cooler. This dress will also look amazing styled with some tights and ankle booties and a long cardigan jacket or even a nice blazer. And, remember my post on Back-to-work style when you've gained a little quarantine weight? You may not instantly think “bodycondress” when you've gone up a size, but Hello Ruching! Nothing does a better job of tummy camouflaging than a dress with some ruching. Save yourself the extra layer of shapewear if you can, right?!

There is another little tidbit of versatility offered by a mini dress that I want to mention and it is that you could easily wear it as a tunic top with leggings for a more casual, comfortable look but still have some of those great slimming effects. Of course, if you're looking for some comfy clothes, check out FemmeLuxe's Joggers, T-Shirts, and Loungewear. I have been promising for months and although it may have taken me awhile, I do keep my promises. So, yes, I will be styling some of FemmeLuxe's Loungewear in tomorrow's post and as a bonus it will be in another lovely shade of autumn.

Yes, in case you are wondering, I am one of those people who, starting in October, still goes crazy for pumpkin spice everything. However, I try to balance it out by limiting myself; as soon as December 1^st hits I put the pumpkin away for a whole year. I know it's a little early for autumn themes, but what's life without whimsy. So, In keeping with my “autumn is on the way” theme this week, I decided to really lean in to it. This Gina dress has this wonderful square neckline that's just begging for something glam to accent this area. I accessorized this Gina dress with a matching chunky geometric gold necklace and earrings set and gold heels. I also grabbed a bronzey metallic envelope clutch to finish the look.

I always look forward to FemmeLuxe week and I spend a great deal of time planning my FemmeLuxe week outfits so that I can best showcase the versatility of each piece. I have so many more dynamic and original FemmeLuxe outfits on the way. Tomorrow it is time for a little relaxation and next week I will be featuring a post with One top in at least three outfits—those posts are always my favorite!—so be sure to check back often as we enjoy the last of summer and try a few new things from FemmeLuxe.

Shopping Info: Rust Square Neck Ruched Bodycon Mini Dress—Gina fromFemmeLuxeFinery.co.uk, jewelry from Catherine's, Heels from Thredup