Boyfriend Blazer by Fashion Bug, $34.99

The new Boyfriend Blazers are a no-brainer wardrobe staple.  They can be used as outerwear in warmer weather or worn as part of an outfit in cooler temps.  When shopping for this look in plus sizes, try to find a more tailored version.  Yes, the look is supposed to be a little bit slouchier than a fitted jacket, but if its too loose it can look sloppy.

I like this blazer from Fashion Bug in part because of the light stripe pattern on the roll up cuffs.  It’s hard to tell from the image if the jacket nips in at the waist but you can always tailor it if not (especially considering that the jacket is only $34.99!  Here are three easy ways to rock this blazer:

Look One: The whole idea of this blazer is that it’s supposed to look a little like you borrowed it from your boyfriend.  So why not pair the manly jacket with a frilly floral dress?  The Calvin Klein pleated floral dress pictured at right is in keeping with the bright retro florals that are so big for spring.  I think the smocked details are especially cute and provide a great contrast to the serious tone of a blazer.

Look Two: Another way to take a basic piece to a new place is with a really powerful accessory.  A plus size blogger friend of mine just bought a fringed necklace from the LeilanniLand Etsy Shop.  I am in LOVE with this Etsy designer because these necklaces are truly statement pieces that can completely change your look.  You could pair the blazer with a white t-shirt and this necklace and make it dynamite.  Plus, you get a custom made hand dyed piece none of your friends will have for only $45.

Look Three: When you think of blazers, you may think of suits and trousers.  But the most modern way to wear suiting is to pair it with jeans.  These slim cut jeans from Calvin Klein are tailored enough to wear in a business casual situation with a nice blouse.  Or you could wear some torn up bleach spot jeans and a bright colored tank with the jacket and make it a weekend going out look.

Window-shopping at Etsy, (yes, again) I came across these felt jewels at Vaivanat’s shop. Classy and bold women’s accessories handmade from felt wool. The Elegant Black and White Ardea Dahlia Felt Flower Brooch can be worn with a jacket, cardigan or blouse and the Sea Buckthorn Orange Berries Felt Necklace will adorn any low cut top or dress. Pieces come in a multitude of colors and designs and are all unique and numbered.

I am an official Yorktown Road fan. The materials are well chosen and the designs are simple and classy with a subtle modern twist. These soft-washed natural linen mini-zip purse and tote are very sweet with a thick and thin pleat touch and natural canvas lining.

If you need a bit more color, they also come in this rich golden yellow, deep orange and dark teal.

Recent unpredictable weather calls for a little thinking ahead. I have a weakness for scarves and you can always find one in my purse, but since one can never have enough accessories, I’m always on the look-out for a new neck jewel. Here’s a great raw scarf by Yorktown Road that I found this weekend while browsing through Etsy (my latest obsession). I like its asymmetrical shape and raw finish. It is made out of fulled, loosely woven wool, which gives it that ribbed texture and soft edges. Black thread is woven together with brown, creating a chic smoky matte black.

I was shopping around for purses for a friend’s birthday and after hours of online “window” gazing, I finally found this cute little leather wallet by Urban Heirlooms at Etsy. It’s not a full blown handbag, but it’s unique and uses vintage materials. I’m pro-recycling second hand pieces when it’s done right, and I like the creative replacement of buckle or snap with a vintage key. There is original design out there if you dig deep enough and it always beats the gift certificate cop out.