It's a short way to the Top Shop.

The long awaited launch of the popular 'Top Shop' filled the streets of Brisbane on December 5th. With special Australian celebrity appearances and an overwhelming crowd the first Queensland store opened it's doors. I have been a devoted Top Shop customer for many years now, but it is so fantastic that I can wonder through the store and try things on in my home city! Given the chance I couldn't resist but too have a look, and I came out with a few lovely style essentials and fixes that will both brighten up your summer wardrobe and can be transeasonal too. 

If you're like me and love to buy pretty dresses that are a little too formal and then find yourself without any 'casual' outfits, I might have a quick fix for you. I have always been torn between liking the look of grungy, baggy shirts but never wearing them when I do buy them, however, they are a fantastic basic top for your wardrobe. The solution is a very feminine baggy top. This might be a little hard to find, but I think this cute little baggy white top (pictured below) is perfect! The delicate lacy detailing balances the grunt raw edges and the plain t-shirt shape. I also love classy, colourful high waisted shorts which can be a little dressy if done up correctly. My solution: pair the super classy high waisted shorts with a soft casual top, such as the Top Shop top (below). This creates a easy, comfortable casual look and leaves you free to buy all the pretty little skirts and dressy fabric shorts your heart desires, while being able to dress them up or down with the right tops and accessories. Add any jewellery that you like and a pair of sandals, flats or converse (or heels for a more formal look) to finish the look. While the shorts are an easy summer style, to take this top into Autumn and Winter, simply layer is with a cute denim jacket or trench coat and pants or a skirt and tights. 

Top: Top Shop, $56

Shorts: Universal Store, $39.99

(The feminine detailing)

(left) Windsor Smiths- Octopus, Myer, $89.95

(centre) Corellie - Giana, Williams, $69.99

(right) Converse- low cuts, Hype DC, $89.95

Top Shop have a range of basic vests, two for $19, that are perfect for lazy summer days and layering with special little cardigans, boleros and jackets. If you're not lucky enough to have a store near you, have a look online: http://www.topshop.com/?geoip=home. xx

The rule for basic clothing: simple timeless cuts, easy to care for, usually stretch materials, plain colours. Black, white and grey are colours that you can mix and match with all other colours so aim to only purchase these colours for you basics. Basics and transeasonal clothing are fantastic because they save you money! It's worth learning how to utilise them and buy cheaper garments (like cardigans, scarves, jackets, ect.) to make your outfits unique that often fall out of fashion quickly. 

What are you favourite summer pieces? What do you like to keep as wardrobe basics? Please comment and let me know! xx