chain store round-up

There’s plenty of chain store goodness to be found right now and your spring/summer wardrobe will be all the better for it. I’ve rounded up an array of different pieces that will elevate an existing look, or act as the anchor point from which to build many more outfits. Shopping for summery clothes is one of my favourite parts of the year simply because everything just evokes the best feelings of this time of year. Light, airy and oh-so fun. Enjoy!

The lilac shade is really on trend making this top a great way to update a look. I particularly like the smocking detail which gives the top an element of interest.

If I were to describe the quintessential summer dress I think it would look like this. The crisp white is perfect for balmy days while the empire line and ruching are sweet touches.

A cute pyjama set never goes astray and this is a really affordable option from Cotton On. I’m a fan of the stripes, but it also comes in other colours and prints.

Culottes are a comfortable and polished option for summer and so easily paired with multiple top styles. The watermelon shade is also such a great way to brighten up and outfit.

I’m always a fan of shirt dresses and I love the riff on the style that this dress takes. You could wear this with a pair of slides for being out and about or wear it with heels for a slightly dressier occasion. Also, I’m always on board with a puff sleeve.

I’ve spoken about the enduring appeal of a white shirt, but sometimes it’s fun to mix up the style, such as this linen shirt. It’s got a classic feel to it but the side ruching adds a modern touch.

How fun are these slides? The jewel green shade is a great way to add some vibrancy to an ensemble, and the woven design is so very now. Don’t be afraid to embrace colour this summer!

Denim shorts are constantly on rotation during summer so I think it’s always great to have a few pairs in different colours. These are a great cut as you can wear them with tops tucked in or with a billowy top worn in a relaxed way.

One shoulder styles are going to be everywhere this season and this style is perfect worn back with a everything from shorts to jeans and a skirt. I think it would work particularly well with a pair of high waisted pants.

A printed dress is always a great staple to have in your wardrobe and this polished style is the perfect option for myriad occasions. I particularly love the belt to cinch the dress and tie it all together.

 

 

Looking for a wardrobe update? There are definitely plenty of options out there right now with the new season drops ensuring we’re very much spoilt for choice. So, whether you’ve freshly emerged from lockdown (or are soon to be!) and looking for something fun to wear to a long lunch or you’re wanting to add something to your wardrobe that will see you through the next few months, then it’s the perfect time to check out what your fave chain stores have on offer. Whenever I’m doing this edit I will always inevitably end up with something I want to add to my list. It’s always hard to narrow it down to 10, but I’ve tried to pinpoint the pieces that I think are versatile, wearable and something that you’ll feel good wearing. Happy shopping!

 

Pink! Sparkly! Fun! This dress has it all and it’s destined to be worn to many an event whether it’s a wedding, a Christmas party or just a special occasion. The ruching, V-neck and cinched in waist are the perfect trio for a super flattering fit so if you want a party dress that you’ll want to wear time and time again, this is it.

These pants are such a great option for spring. The neutral hue makes it easy to pair with multiple looks, and I could see this especially working with a ribbed singlet or a bold shoulder tee. The cropped ankle and the belt also help to achieve a really flattering fit.

Love this pink bodysuit! It’s such a great way to add a splash of colour to an outfit and the ribbed fabric gives it an interesting textural element that adds a level of interest to a look.

Look out for thongs to be everywhere this summer, particularly the heeled or platform variety. These are a great comfy option for wearing when you’re out and about whilst simultaneously ticking the on trend box.

Versatile bags that can work for myriad occasions are definitely a must and the shape and style of this mini shoulder bag with pebbled leather make it the kind of piece that can be worn day in and day out. The relaxed, slightly slouchy vibe is also ticking all the trend boxes so it’s a nice way to update an existing look.

If you’ve yet to invest in a hat for summer, definitely make it a priority. A great wide brimmed hat like this is perfect for wearing everywhere from a picnic, to the beach to just generally being out and about. If there’s one thing that’s a definite must in general but particularly over the coming weeks, it’s a hat that you love wearing.

There are many things to love about this crisp white blouse. The lace trim, the cut out details, the textural finish… a definite winner in the style stakes and something that will work back with myriad looks making it an astute purchase.

A simple style can be transformed with just a few interesting details, like this dress with cut outs. The sleek silhouette is perfect for an event—just add a great pair of earrings, killer heels and you’re done.

Shorts are a no-brainer during summer and this pair is a classic style that has longevity. Clean lines and the neutral hue make it ideal for dressing up or down, plus it’s essentially a blank canvas that you can work myriad pieces with.

Are you sensing a colour theme here..? I can’t get enough of pink and these linen pants are just the vibrant hit of colour your wardrobe needs. Add a great pair of sandals or slides, and a shirt or singlet and you have yourself a winning look.

The start of a new season is always a great excuse to start perusing what’s in store. It seems the chain stores are really bringing their spring A-game with lots of great pieces on offer. If you’re looking for some gorgeous dresses to bookmark for an outing, an event or simply just to make the most of the sunshine then you won’t be disappointed. That said there are also some fun picks that not only tick the style box but are also versatile enough to work back with so many different pieces. Get ready to welcome the warmer weather around the corner with this chain store round-up and start creating some of your go-to looks for spring.

An elegant and sleek dress to add to your spring repertoire. This is the kind of dress destined for long lunches, cocktails in hand. Add some statement jewellery and a beautiful minimalist sandal and you’re set.

I have two sleeveless tees with shoulder pads in black and white and I wear them non-stop so I was quite excited to see this elevated take on it. Love that it’s a crisp white linen and the boxy silhouette makes it a more fashion-ey piece to pair with everything from denim to your fave skirt or shorts.

This chambray dress is a good one to have in your style arsenal. It’s a no-fuss piece that can easily be thrown on to head to the shops or out to dinner.

I’m a big fan of oversized shirts and this one from Cotton On is actually beach attire but I think it could easily become a staple of your casual wardrobe. It comes in a range of colours so you can grab it in other hues too.

Splashing out on a new pair of sunnies at the start of a season is such an easy way to update your wardrobe. This tortoiseshell pair is modern and quite the statement piece so it’s guaranteed to lift any look.

The first thing to note: this top also comes in black and oatmeal, and I’d definitely grab those too. The simple silhouette makes it extremely versatile and I particularly like the square neckline.

Linen pants are a constant in my spring/summer wardrobe and a neutral pair is just the thing to anchor a look. Team it with a tee or a relaxed shirt and some slides or sandals and you’ve got the blueprint for a look you can wear all season long.

A white sandal like this will take you far when it comes to your outfit repertoire. I’d pair this with a dress or a skirt or even jeans, plus the neutral hue makes it easy to work back with multiple looks.

Looking to add a new skirt to your wardrobe? Make it this one. The voluminous silhouette is elegant, and would look so good dressed up or down. You could also choose to pair it with the matching top and take it up to event territory.

A pastel blue dress seems so fitting to welcome spring. It’s fresh and feminine and would be flattering on different shapes. Also a long sleeved dress always gets a tick in my book.

Having a bit more time at home during lockdown has meant that I’ve been doing a whole lot more scrolling. In between doing the home school/work juggle I’ve been doing lots of online window shopping and pleasantly surprised at the super affordable pieces out there right now. Given it’s now the tail end of winter, the chain stores are doing some great pieces heading into spring. I’ve found some great basics and statement pieces that would help build on or elevate existing outfits. Here’s what’s looking good this month.

Simple and refined, this button down ribbed cardi can be worn over jeans and a tee, but also, as shown here, be worn as a dress. You know how much I love a multi-tasker! You could pop on a coat over this look while it’s still winter but wear it with sandals or sneakers in spring.

Wide leg pants are such a fun alternative to wearing jeans. This white pair is so fresh and perfect for when the weather starts to warm up. Never fear however, you could still wear it in the coming weeks by pairing it with a sweater and sneakers.

Love the sleeves on this top. The exaggerated cap sleeve adds an interesting touch to this outfit, and in a crisp white it’s easily paired with a multitude of looks. Consider it the slightly more glam version of your fave white tee.

Sweats are kind of my thing right now given the lockdown in Sydney so it so it was nice to find this affordable set from Cotton On. Not only does it come in a range of colours and look super comfy, it’s also able to be monogrammed which is just the icing on the cake. Because who wouldn’t want to watch Netflix in personalised loungewear!

Puffer jackets are pretty much my go-to for off duty days in winter. I love the fact that this jacket looks ultra warm and the blush pink hue is just the right pop of colour that can brighten up an outfit.

I’d consider this top basic in the best possible way. I’m always on the hunt for versatile basics but I gravitate towards designs that just feel a little more polished. Love the wide straps and square neckline on this top.

I have a thing for white tops and this one is the right kind of relaxed to be able to turn a weekend outfit into something polished without feeling too “done”. However I could also see it working back with a pair of wide leg pants and transitioning into workwear.

This ribbed tank comes in a range of different colours and needs to be snapped up, stat. It’s the right kind of cut to be able to pair with pants or jeans, skirts or shorts but it’s understated and sleek enough that you could throw a jacket or blazer on top and wear it out to dinner.

A-line skirts with buttons are made for summer dressing. This particular hue is just the thing to work back with a variety of different pieces and result in numerous outfits. A tick in the versatility box, for sure.

Shirt dresses are one of my favourite styles and this dress is just the piece to be worn casually or dressed up. It’s a great silhouette and I love the button and multi-pocket detail.

 

The chain stores are certainly stepping up their game this winter. If you’re looking to update your wardrobe then now is a great time to check out what’s on offer because whether it’s a casual sweatshirt or a beautiful blouse, you’ll find some affordable options that don’t scrimp on style. I’ve scoured a few of my fave brands and bring you my edit of winter and even a few spring/summer pieces that will be a welcome addition to anyone’s closet.

 

Cosy pieces are high on any winter shopping list, particularly when it’s a super affordable option such as this. This jumper is just the thing to wear when you’re in relaxation mode, and great for popping on over activewear too.

A great blouse is always a worthwhile addition to any wardrobe, and you can’t go wrong with a fun playful number such as this. The oversized collar and floral print make for a perfect pairing, and it can work back with so many different looks.

Basics with interesting finishes have the power to turn something ordinary into an elevated look. This top, with its oversized eyelets is a great example of that. It’s able to be paired with a variety of different styles but the design reads elevated.

Perfectly paired with slacks, this polka dot blouse adds a statement element to classic pieces. And the great thing about a spotted print is that it seamlessly works back with multiple looks.

You’ll wear a pair of culottes such as this all throughout spring/summer and it’s such a dreamy pairing with sandals and a bright pop of colour.

If there’s one thing that you’ll wear to death through winter it would have to be black leggings. They tick the comfort box, are easily worked back wth multiple looks and are such an easy piece to dress up or down.

Sleek, sophisticated and classic, this belted blazer is just the thing to add a smart touch to an outfit. Invest in the pants as well and you have yourself a suit that can take you can rely on to take you through many an event.

You can’t beat a shearling jacket for warmth, and this is one option that you can easily work back with a sporty ensemble, or wear it with jeans and a tee for a cosy off duty look.

Camel hues are having a moment and this jumper style is the kind of silhouette that you can wear out while grabbing coffee or pop it on after heading to the gym. The billowy sleeves are the ideal finishing touch.

Wide leg pants are majorly trending and this style is just the thing to tap into the trend. You could dress this down with a tee or dress it up with a a cami or button down and you have yourself a perfectly classic ensemble.

 

I always love doing this edit because there are so many great pieces in store and online right now—the chain stores are really bringing their A-game. While it’s still all about cosy pieces such as an oversized cardigan and knit dresses, there are some lovely elevated buys such as a shirt dress in a jewelled shade and a denim dress made for Friday night drinks that are definitely worth snapping up. Here’s what’s worth checking out at your fave chain store this month.

I think an oversized cardigan is a necessary addition to any wardrobe during winter — it’s the perfect thing to cosy up in and can work back with so many different pieces, making for a truly versatile addition to an outfit rotation.

Pops of colour are one way to brighten up an outfit and these blush pink slingbacks are the perfect accent piece to a look. They’re classic yet fun and such a worthy addition to any wardrobe.

An oversized denim jacket is a staple piece of any winter wardrobe and so versatile, able to be worked back with multiple looks and can be dressed up or down.

These mom jeans are the kind of silhouette that’s comfy, and also easily paired back with everything from a button down shirt, to a tee or a jumper. In other words: you’ll get plenty of use out of it. Snap these up because they’re also now on sale!

I love the shape and colour of this puffer jacket. It’s cosy enough to keep you warm on even the coldest of winter mornings but also fashion forward enough to add a stylish element to any outfit.

A cream cable knit jumper is one of those classic pieces that can be paired with myriad looks. It has an old school charm about it, but a classic feel that adds an element of polish to any look.

Chunky winter boots are majorly trending and these are a great piece to add a touch of grittiness to a feminine look. They would be a dream pairing with a knit dress, but could work equally as well with denim.

Love the 70s vibe of this button down knit dress. The oversized collar and statement buttons elevate it, adding a point of interest, while the seafoam green is such an unexpected shade for winter.

Sophisticated and elegant, this teal shirt dress is just the thing to bank in your wardrobe for your next occasion. Worked back with heels, it could also make for a great addition to an office wardrobe.

The statement stitching on this dress is what makes it — it elevates the denim, making it pop. While the fitted silhouette and puffed sleeves are very now and is such a fun, feminine look.

 

I always really like doing these posts at the start of a new season as it’s the perfect time to do a wardrobe update, and it’s great to see what’s out there. And I have to say, chain stores have really delivered on the trend front, ticking the boxes as far as what’s trending, but also weaving in classics that are great for topping up our evergreen wardrobe. Here’s what you should definitely add to cart this month.

Update your sneaker wardrobe with this multipurpose, minimalist pair. It’s the kind of style that will work back with several different looks, and can also be worn all through the year.

Denim jackets are a great wardrobe staple to have on hand, so I’ve always liked having it in different washes to ensure maximum wear. This black shade is equally as versatile as its blue denim counterpart, but just has slightly more edge.

It’s all in the sleeve detail for me these days. This balloon sleeve style in a baby pink hue is just the thing to brighten up any autumn/winter look, and it makes a statement all at the same time.

A neutral midi dress is the basis for so many different looks that it’s definitely something worth adding to your shopping list. Pop on a jacket or a blazer to dress it up, or wear it with a crisp white shirt knotted, or simply throw on a knit.

The simplicity of this shirt guarantees that it can be worn to death. You can wear it dressed up with tailored pants, or dressed down with jeans, with myriad other uses in between.

You can never have too much denim in your life. With the regularity most of us wear jeans, it never hurts to have a few pairs up your sleeve. And this style is just the perfect silhouette to see you through any season.

I tend to collect lots of basics at the start of every season to form the basis of many of my day to day looks. And I know that a top like this will get many outings as it’s a pared back style that can easily work back with most outfits, but with elements such as the ribbed texture and high neckline, it steers it away from being anything but boring.

It’s hard to resist a great dress, especially when it looks like this. It’s a great neutral hue and the cinched waist is a flattering finish.

It’s always nice to incorporate some coloured knits into your autumn/winter rotation as it can get a little monotonous wearing the same hues over and over again. This burnt orange shade is such a good one to weave into an outfit to give it an injection of personality.

Love this knit top for its classic feel. It looks great worn back with jeans, but I think it would also play nicely with everything from pants to skirts and shorts. Plus it adds a nice textural element to any outfit.

We’re at the tail end of summer now and we’re swiftly approaching transseasonal dressing time. Keeping this in mind, I’ve been hunting around for pieces that can easily be worn in hot or cold weather with a strategic adjustment or two. And the good news? There are plenty of great affordable buys out there. This month’s chain store round-up is all about versatile buys that are going to be able to take you through the change in seasons without missing a beat.

A denim midi skirt is a style that can easily be dressed up or down. Add a crisp white shirt for a classic, polished look or a white tee with a sweater to easily turn it into an ideal transseasonal outfit.

A neutral linen dress will see you through the last few weeks of summer. Pop on a trench or a cosy cardi and pair with sneakers for the ideal take on a classy, casual ensemble.

This short sleeved shirt can work with a pair of shorts while the weather is still warm but you can transition it into a winter look by working it back with jeans or wide leg pants.

I’m loving all things tie-dye right now and this tee is a great way to add a pop of colour to your fave looks. Easily paired back with jeans, sweatpants and more, it’s a great way to add a playful touch to a look.

Midi dresses are a star player in my wardrobe because they’re a great shortcut to achieving a polished look—there’s just something classic about them. This shirred dress is a silhouette that can easily be worked back with sneakers and a denim jacket when the weather cools, while it plays nicely with slides or sandals while summer is still in full swing.

White slides are a great versatile shoe to have in your wardrobe. It’s hue that can be worked back with myriad looks, and this particular style can be paired with pants just as easily as it can work with shorts and a skirt.

Start stocking up on sweats now because they’ll be huge this winter. This neutral shade makes it workable with a variety of different looks—you can get away with wearing this particular style out and about as easily as you can to the gym.

Bike pants are well and truly back. This pair comes in a variety of different shades and at an affordable price too, making it easy to work it into your activewear wardrobe, as well as your casual outfit repertoire.

You can’t go past black shorts when it comes to ultra wearable style options. This pair can work with sneakers or sandals and can be topped with a lightweight jacket to take it into autumn.

A comfortable pair of heels is a must and this pair ticks all the boxes—a great heel height and a modern silhouette making it an on trend addition to any look.

A brand new year often goes hand-in-hand with a new commitment to fitness, which generally also coincides with wanting to find some cute workout gear as added motivation. There’s nothing like being able to wear something nice while you train, so I thought I’d round up a few great pieces that you can add to your exercise outfit repertoire.

There are some great brands that are doing activewear that does the job but also adds an injection of style to any training session. I’ve rounded up a few pieces that will do just that, and they’re all available at your local chain store.

Scroll down to find some great pieces to add to your workout wardrobe.

This crop top comes in a variety of different prints and also has matching pants to finish off the look. At under $25, you can snap up a couple to have on rotation.

Love this tie-dye top as a way of adding a fashion element to workout look. And if you’ve often favoured plain black activewear, this is one piece that can easily add a pop of colour to your look without being too over the top.

This is a punchy print but doesn’t overwhelm, making it an ideal option for mixing and matching with existing pieces in your activewear wardrobe.

Who would’ve ever thought bike shorts would make such a comeback? Be prepared for them to become a staple of your training outfit repertoire, especially when they come in such eye-catching prints.

This old school classic sweat is a great one to pop on on your way to the gym, or to have in your bag to take you from spin to coffee. It also comes in a range of different colours so there’s one to suit every taste.

I love the textured element of this sports bra. It’s a great one to layer under a tee, and is such an interesting way to dress up an exercise ensemble.

A little animal print is of course, something that’s guaranteed to dress up any training session. This one makes a statement, but the dark hues allow it to be worked back with different pieces.

White jogger pants are the kind of comfy exercise gear option you never knew you always needed. It’s easily paired back with multiple looks and can also be incorporated into your casual wardrobe without missing a beat.

You can never have too many sports bras in the mix, and this one features an understated pattern, making it quite the style chameleon.

If you really want to jazz up your workout wardrobe, add a great print in the mix. This tie-dye jogger pant is the perfect pant to work back with a crisp white tee or a singlet.