There is nothing better than unplanned and spontaneous time with friends, especially in the summer. This week the weather in NYC has been very forgiving, so a friend and I took advantage by taking a nice stroll through Astoria, Queens. It felt great to spend some time catching up after spending so much time away from each other with our hectic work schedules. It was doubly special because the casual outing gave me an excuse to wear a piece I got from the first Fashion to Figure sample sale I attended back in February.

What I really love about this top is the oversize cut. Some people believe that being body positive means body-con dresses and fitted/revealing outfits as wearing the contrary suggests that you are ashamed of your body. I disagree. Choosing such a style isn’t meant to hide your curves — its about expressing style, in this case being feminine, comfy and casual. I layered the top over a cami, as the top is very sheer, and paired it with some bermuda shorts to emphasize the high-low silhouette. I kept accessories to the bare minimum, to ensure that the focus would be on the buttoned crochet back, which is also the reason why I wore my hair up in a ponytail in addition to avoiding any messy tangles. I topped off this outfit with my favorite taupe bucket bag and embellished gladiator sandals; a major closet find that I am so happy to have in my wardrobe again as they are so comfortable.

~Get the look~

Aubrey Open Crochet Open Back Top | Fashion to Figure (similar here, here, here and here)
Medium Wash Skinny Bermuda Shorts | Avenue  (similar here)
Steve Madden Embellished Gladiators | DSW  ( similar here and here)
Steve Madden Draw String Bucket Bag | Macy’s (similar here and here)

Many thanks to my friend, and aspiring photographer, Diana Arriola for taking these pictures.