How to Wear It

An Animal Print Top

by Francesca Belluomini on March 16, 2011 at 03:45AM

Originally from Argentina, Nancy G. moved to Miami 15 years ago after landing a VP position with a pharmaceutical company. She travels internationally for work, and is required to wear "corporate attire," which is not exactly her thing. So on the weekends, she cuts loose. This chiffon, animal print top with ruffles and bell sleeves is so right for Fall 2011 we figured she better get a jump on the season and figure out how to wear it now. Nancy bought the top durring a mall shopping spree with her oldest daughter two years ago, with the intention of livening her dark suits, but it's since become neglected.

The first look comes from Nancy's closet. For the last two, we needed the help of an expert so we headed to Green Grass where Viviana helped us find just the right pieces to make the animal shine.

Saturday Soccer Practice

Yes, Nancy is a soccer mom (and wife). Her husband and youngest daughter are coach and goalie, respectively, of her daughter's team. While she might be a soccer mom, she doesn't have to look like one - not when she can hit the field in skinny dark blue jeans (these are from Zara), lace up brown boots (Lauren by Ralph Lauren) and chunky rhinestones necklaces (her own) and look fab along the sidelines. To accentuate the waist: a knotted brown belt (from her older daughter’s closet).

On the Boat in Cape Cod

Nancy’s husband and son are expert sailors and the family keeps a boat at a marina in Massachussets. Fit the part in glittery hot pants by Alice + Olivia, a sexy black bikini by Zeki and a silk head scarf with butterfly print by Bella Raquella. We loved the contrast of the animal print with the flowers and butterflies of the head scarf, which lowered the “drama” of the animal print just a bit.

The First Spring BBQ

A strapless linen jumpsuit with wide pants and pockets by Green Grass becomes the base of this ensemble. Wear the top over the jumpsuit and toss on a cotton lariat with mirrored tassel by Equinoccio Equinoccio for good measure. Wear the outfit with flats or sandals during the day, or dress up for the evening with open-toe wedges.

Up Next:

A skinny black dress.

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About the Author

Francesca Belluomini has got style, class and sass. In How to Wear It, she offers fun and funky style solutions for your most troublesome wardrobe pieces. When she's not writing, Belluomini designs jewelry. Her collection draws from the colors, textures and aromas of her native Tuscany. See it at www.francescabelluomini.com.