hat tricks?

This weekend oozed the feeling of summertime, when the livin' is easy. Boyfriend and I trekked out to the zoo, jostled with what felt like a million cars for a parking space, had a chat with a talkative toucan, and overheard four separate conversations of adults complaining that the zoo was boring because "all there is to do is look at animals." True story.

I understand, though. I feel the same way when I go to the movies and all there is to do is stare at the giant screen in front of me and shove popcorn in my face.

But it's Monday and back to life we go. I featured summer-friendly straw hats on the past "Trendwatch Saturday," so I figured it was only appropriate to try the look out for myself:

striped shirt, gap [x-ish] [x-ish] [x-ish]
white button cami, gap [x-ish]
3b charcoal vest, nordstrom [x-ish] [x-ish]
denim, joe's jeans
'village slingback' sandals, mia [x] [x]
'rat-a-tat' hat, modcloth [x-ish] [x-ish] [x-ish]

Excuse the "rough" hair. Some mornings I just can't be bothered to straighten it all (I have a lot of hair, folks) so I just let it be its natural, untamed self.

This outfit is very "menswear" inspired. I've always been a big fan of men's fashion and devour magazines like GQ and Esquire as if they were delicious, delicious candies. It can be a little tricky rocking the "menswear as women's wear" look without seeming too deliberate or Annie Hall-esque. The trick, I think, is getting menswear pieces that are tailored for a feminine body so that you don't look too much like you just borrowed your brother's clothes. Also, adding in feminine elements, like fitted jeans or a skirt, also keeps it from getting too costume-y.

I also managed to hit snag a few Liberty of London for Target items last week. I'll post on those tomorrow!