I never thought the day would come when I'd go a full week sans athleisure. It's been my crutch throughout the past year, keeping me cozy as I spend my days at home. But now that things are returning to a more normal state, I've been dabbling in "real-world" dressing, and quite honestly, I'm feeling a lot more like myself. My leggings and bike shorts are solely used for workout purposes, and you can find me clad from head to toe in items like jeans (gasp!), bodysuits, and sandals… with heels.
My co-workers are feeling the same vibes as I am and have admitted to bidding farewell to anything stretchy. We're focused on more polished, elevated summer looks, and Express is a gold mine for the pieces we need to make them. Want to see a few of the outfits you can find us in this season? Keep scrolling.
"I love the low-key summer vibe of a really well-accessorized black-and-white look. My trick to keeping denim looks feeling elevated is looking for tuckable tops (not too long, not too much fabric) and jeans with a high waist and that magic length where they work with heels or flats."
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"I like incorporating classic pieces into my wardrobe whenever possible but always aim to have a touch of trend in there. This summer, I'm going for one-shoulder tops and baggy jeans that feel of-the-moment. I have a few date nights planned this month and will wear this exact outfit each time."
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"Okay, listen: Yes, I'm ditching my waistband pants. However, your girl can't give up the comfort life that easily. My solution? Dresses. I can't stop buying them! They go with everything from strappy sandals to sneakers and are just plain cute. I love the buttery-soft fabric on this one and the fact that it's under $100. I'd wear this 'fit to drinks with friends or running errands—it's so versatile."
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"After a full year of sweats and house slippers, I've officially committed to wearing jeans and heels again. Don't get me wrong—the transition hasn't been easy, but comfort is still at the top of my priority list, and this outfit passes the vibe check. I'm going back to basics and sticking to loose-fitting '90s-style denim, a chic bodysuit, and printed sandal heels for all of my fun summer outings. I'll top it all off with a leather clutch, and I'll be good to go."
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"I'm a denim girl for life, so when it's too hot out for one of my favorite straight-leg pairs, you can find me in jean shorts. Right now, I'm loving styles in darker washes with a raw hem, which feel very '90s cool girl to me. I'm styling this particular pair with a knit tank (please note the chic neckline), simple strappy sandals, and a classic black blazer for good measure. I recommend sizing up because oversize blazers make any outfit 100% better."
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