[My Personal Style] Comfy, Edgy, Chic: My Memorial Day Ensemble

Memorial Day weekend is the first official kick-off ushering in summer.  This year I'll be spending the Memorial Day weekend catching up with friends and family at a few different barbeques (or what they say in the Midwest 'cook-outs').  Since this time of year is still a bit iffy with the weather my Memorial Day ensemble is all about chic layering-which I've had to become an expert in since Chicago has such bi-polar weather.

I'll be stepping out in my signature style: Comfy, Edgy & Chic.  I've chosen a long cotton jersey maxi dress paired with a cotton twill jacket and dressed up with key edgy accessories.  Don't forget that just because it's an easy-going holiday weekend, it's not an excuse to show up at your family or friends get together in a lack luster ensemble.

What I'm wearing: Rachel Pally Maxi Dress, Obey Military Jacket, Jeffrey Campbell Wedges, Juicy Couture Necklace & Chain Bracelet, L.A.M.B Watch, Links Bracelet, Gaga's Workshop Bracelet, ASOS Spiked Ear Cuff, DSQUARED2 Aviators, ASOS Envelope Clutch

Want to replicate my Memorial Day style? Check out my suggestions below:

Comfy, Edgy, Chic-Memorial BBQ Ensemble by afonua featuring brides dresses

Have a fun and safe holiday weekend! "Eat, Drink & Be Merry" xoxo

The Leather Jacket: Rev up with Rebel Cool!

What's the one article of clothing that can take any ensemble from safe to edgy or from blah to instantly on trend in seconds? Answer: The Leather Jacket.

The leather jacket instantly ups the ante when paired with a frilly and flirty cocktail dress or when worn simply with a pair of boyfriend jeans and a basic crew t-shirt top.

Check out my top picks below and let out your inner 'Rebel Cool'!

The Leather Jacket: Rev up with Rebel Cool! by afonua featuring genuine leather jackets

Printed Pants: Which print gets your vote?

Printed pants are one of the biggest trends this Spring and will definitely crossover into Summer.  With warmer weather comes bright, bold and vibrant colors.  While many opt for more of a statement making pair, I personally believe more can be said in the details.  Because the main focus is the all-over print, I prefer a pair with a monochrome color palette to highlight and draw more focus on the print.

I found two great print satin-silk pants and want you to chime with your opinion of which pair is more printastic!

Thomas Wylde vs. Helene Berman

Printed Pants! by afonua featuring cropped pants