What Your Favorite Plaid Says About Your Personality

Yeehaw, y’all. The secret to sartorial success this season is embracing Western influences with open arms. Gucci, Dolce & Gabbana and Antonio Marras mixed cowboy-inspired shirts with finely tailored trousers and polished steppers for an outlaw-in-the-city edge. Valentino, shown above, took a slightly more subtle approach to the trend with thoughtful embroidery and accessories. (Photo via Pascal Le Segretain/Getty)

1. B-Low the Belt Bri Bri Leather Belt ($158): You don’t have to bust out the lasso to get in on some of that out-West action. Simply cinch this etched buckle belt around a classic A-line dress or a pair of high-waisted trousers, then get ready to embrace your free-spirited side.

Metallics

Designers like Calvin Klein, Versace and Katie Eary (above) played with the idea of daytime metallics, taking everyday essentials to the next level with quicksilver fabric to create high-impact looks that keep it real. (Photo via Jeff Spicer/Getty)

2. Love Moschino Metallic Cropped Trousers ($354): One word: obsessed. Forget cropped jeans — these high-shine trousers are the bottoms you’ll be busting out on the daily. Pair ‘em with a rib knit tee, loafers and a bucket bag by day, then play up their ready-to-party feel with sassy stilettos, a silk top and a quirky statement clutch.

Track Star

This isn’t your everyday athleisure. Calling to mind the glory days of ‘80s sportswear, this season’s collections, with MAN Wales Bonner (shown here), Gucci, Burberry and Kenzo among them, had a distinct athletic vibe that ventured into sophisticated territory thanks to clean lines and intelligent styling. (Photo via Stuart C. Wilson/Getty)

3. Adidas Originals Gazelle Sneaker ($80): Stepping out in a full-on tracksuit just isn’t your thing, but these bright suede kicks, on the other hand, were practically made with your fuss-free sensibilities in mind. Pair ‘em with smart suiting separates and a basic tee for an on-the-job ensemble that exudes athletic appeal, or style them alongside a statement dress for an It-girl-approved look.

Military Jackets

Forget utility jackets — designers like Thom Browne were all about high-level regalia this season, ditching traditional khaki coats and camo for elegant, tailored pieces that definitely warrant a salute. (Photo via Francois Durand/Getty)

4. Mango Double-Breasted Jacket ($150): It’s time to trade out that blasé blazer for a double-breasted military jacket that isn’t messing around. Whether you team it with cropped jeans and pointed-toe slides or layer it over an ultra-feminine dress, the result will be downright DDG.

Kitsch Is It

Just in case you weren’t aware, kitsch is in, and the proof is in the pins and patches currently taking the fashion world by storm. If the J.W. Anderson catwalk is any indication, you totally have the green light to rock your favorite throwback embellishments into next season. (Photo via Jeff Spicer/Getty)

5. The WhitePepper Patch Jumper ($81): Who says you have to stick to snoozy sweats for lazy-girl Sundays? Instead, don this peppy number during an epic movie marathon or when you hit the streets to walk the dog. Pair with wide-legged trousers and a box clutch to instantly upgrade your OOTD. A kitschy sweatshirt is just what your wardrobe needs to keep the summer vibes going year round.

Bomb Squad

Wondering if that bomber is still going to be, erm, the bomb once fall rolls around? According to Burberry (shown above), Louis Vuitton and MSGM, the answer is an overwhelming yes. (Photo via Tristan Fewings/Getty)

6. Zara Floral Embroidered Bomber Jacket ($130): When your go-to leather jacket starts to feel meh, allow this embroidered bomber jacket to swoop in and save the day. While it’s a shoo-in for your t-shirt-and-jeans routine, it makes a mean addition to your GNO lineup, adding a tough-girl edge to shimmery slip dresses and minimalist shifts alike.

Checked Out

Okay, so fall plaids aren’t exactly what you call revolutionary, but Junya Watanabe, Dior Homme (shown here), Bottega Veneta and Raf Simons want you to think outside the box and do plaids differently, whether that means embracing bold prints or unexpected styling. (Photo via Pascal Le Segretain/Getty)

7. ASOS Brushed Check Longline Jacket ($81): Whether you’re headed to a gallery for a buzz-worthy exhibition or your weekly brunch date with the girls, this oversized check jacket is equal parts practical and dapper. Wrap it around the shoulders for a lady-about-town kind of look, or pair it with a band tee and boyfriend jeans for an effortless weekend getup.

Arts + Crafts

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Last season’s folksy flair is resurfacing in fall 2016 as sweaters with a handmade aesthetic, soft textured embellishments and crocheted tops with undeniable country charm. DIY never looked so good.

8. Tibi Marisol Embroidered Denim Skirt ($395): This ah-mazing embroidered skirt just might make you want to skip the rest of summer and head straight into fall. Worn with a mock neck sweater or peasant blouse and block-heeled ankle boots, it’ll fast become the cornerstone of your fall wardrobe.

Pretty in Pink

Step aside, moody autumnal hues — fall 2016 is all about thinking pink. From shades of vibrant coral to dusty rose tones, the traditionally feminine hue made a strong showing at Paul Smith, Kenzo (above), Vivienne Westwood and more, popping up in the form of boxy overcoats, sleek suiting and acid wash jeans that could be described as straight-up rad. (Photo via Francois Durand/Getty)

9. Acne Studios Marsy Twill Wide-Leg Pants ($189): Blend in? Never! Banish blasé on-the-job attire for good (life is too short) by adding these pale pink pants to your workweek mix. You’ll have best-dressed employee in the bag when you strut your stuff into the office in these wide-leg trousers, a printed silk shirt and that girlboss ‘tude.

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1. Something Blue: Gray and navy is a color combination that never gets old. Your husband-to-be will look absolutely dashing in this ensemble complete with a polka dot tie and pocket square. (via Chanelle Knapp Photography / Whimsical Wonderland Weddings)

2. Homespun Honey: Ditch the vest for a linen dress shirt and a double bow tie for a more laid-back look. Add a patterned pocket square to really top off the backyard vibe. (via Alixanne Loosle Photography / 100 Layer Cake)

3. Modern in Maroon: Trade in the typical black tuxedo for a moody maroon jacket that is anything but average. The dark hue will look stunning standing next to your gorgeous wedding dress. (via The Youngrens / Style Me Pretty)

4. Emerald Edge: Match your emerald-cut diamond with this stunning suit and all your guests will be green with envy. You’ll be racing down the aisle to get a closer look at your handsome man. (via ASOS)

5. White Wedding: Brides aren’t the only ones dressed in white these days. Dressed head to toe in a stark white, you and your groom will share the spotlight. (via Sara Richardson Photography / 100 Layer Cake)

6. Handsome Hue: Pairing a maroon jacket with khaki pants and a beautiful bride is a flawless combo. But don’t stop there — complete your wedding style with matching maroon flowers in your bouquet and floral crown for an instant crowd-pleaser. (via Margherita Calati Photography / Bridal Musings Wedding Blog)

7. Trio of Textures: This ensemble is the complete trifecta. The jacket, bow tie and pocket square are perfectly mismatched to create a stylish look that would make any bride swoon. (via Jonathan Daniel Pryce / Garcon Jon)

8. Preppy Polka Dots: Skip the vest and jacket for a polka dot button-up that is fun and fashionable. Spice it up with a bright boutonniere and you’ve got an instant stud. (via Mathieu Photo / Wedding Chicks)

9. Brilliant Bow tie: Give your guy a little extra flair by choosing a bow tie to complement your bouquet. The extra thought will create a style that’s a match made in heaven. (via Marion Heurteboust Photography / Aisle Perfect)

10. Cool Mint Blue: This lovely and light combination of cool gray and mint blue are perfect for a destination wedding. It’s the best blend of laid back and sophisticated. (via Whitney Neal / Style Me Pretty)

11. Boho Chic: Nothing will look better at your backyard wedding than this tan and baby blue look. The suspenders and baby’s breath boutonniere really add to the boho charm. (via Janelle Marina Photography / Wedding Chicks)

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1. Actually Use Your Planner In 2025

We're not buying pretty planners just so they can collect dust on our desks or coffee tables anymore. Corry Frazier and Melissa Pepin want you to get serious because they feel "it starts with planning." They don't mean the kind you eventually flake on either.

"Effective planning is key to maintaining balance and reducing burnout. Whether you're mapping out tasks, meetings, or events, dedicated time for preparation ensures focus and reduces stress," they say. In other words, "the more intentional you are in planning, the more productive you'll be," according to them.

Ever since I've been blocking out my tasks by hour in planner, I've been able to get more done without feeling overwhelmed by splitting my time between writing and being in mommy mode. Frazier and Pepin suggest that you "set weekly planning sessions" that consist of "30-60 minutes each weekend to map out your upcoming week."

This eventually "reduces decision fatigue, fosters a sense of control, and helps you start Monday with clarity and purpose," they add. Yes, this is a sign that you'll be breaking up with the dreaded 'Sunday scaries' if you follow their advice. "You'll feel proactive and grounded rather than reacting to the week as it unfolds," they agree.

2. Embrace A "Fake Commute" When Working From Home

One of Kayla Baum's tips is to switch up your routine if you're a remote worker. Rolling out of the bed at the last minute before logging on for work sounds appealing until you realize you're uninspired by your days. But, what is a "fake commute?"

"It mimics the structure of a traditional commute to establish a boundary between work and personal life. This could mean taking a walk around the block, doing a 10-minute guided meditation, or even just changing clothes at the end of the day," Baum mentions.

Based on her experience, she's found that "it works because it provides a psychological buffer, helping to separate work and home life." She feels it's "crucial for positive mental health and boosting productivity at work (and at home)."

You can also create a separate work space that's not in your bedroom to get work done! That's helped me tremendously so I'm not sleeping and working in the same area.

3. Focus On High-Impact Tasks

Similar to planning your work days as best as you can, Frazier and Pepin want you to "prioritize the tasks that align with your goals." To minimize distractions, they want you to ask yourself:

• What is the most effective use of my time right now?

4. Stop Making Daily Decisions Hard

Tasks like your morning routine or figuring out what you'll eat don't have to take up a chunk of your time anymore. "Use productivity hacks, such as pre-planning meals or laying out weekly outfits," suggest Frazier and Pepin. They feel that "small routines like this eliminate unnecessary choices" to "make mornings smoother."

According to them, it's "especially helpful for families juggling multiple schedules." I couldn't agree more because I've spent so many frazzled mornings trying to make decisions about what myself and my toddler would wear or eat instead of planning them. With the help of my fiancé, we've cut so much time in half by being prepared ahead of time instead of 'winging it' before work.

5. Understand What Your Boundaries Are And Set Them

Worried that you'll be considered 'mean' if you tell your manager or coworkers what your boundaries are at work? Depending on your environment, it's 100% understandable. However, you're human and there's no reason you should be over-performing to your detriment. Frazier and Pepin say, "Set boundaries and communicate clearly. Adopt Brené Brown's mantra: 'To be clear is to be kind.'"

They encourage you to not only "be upfront about your schedule to manage others' expectations," but it's also so you can "avoid over-commitment." Say it with me: I will not make false promises just to appease others. Why?

Frazier and Pepin say, "Don't be afraid to say no to side projects or anything that doesn't align with your goals."

6. Ignore Emails Sent After Your Work Hours

I've been guilty of sending an email after work to acknowledge that I saw something, but I never expect other people to feel obligated to respond until the next business day. On the flip side, I've felt pressured to answer something that feels timely and I've gone to sleep thinking about the sender's potential follow-up email.

"Just because a coworker chooses to work late at night doesn't mean you must answer. One helpful trick is to include your working days and hours in your signature, explaining that responses may be delayed outside of those times," Frazier and Pepin say. They even have a prompt you can use if you're not sure what to type:

• "My working hours are [Your Working Hours, e.g., 9 AM - 4 PM ET]. Please note that these may differ from your local time zone. I appreciate your understanding and will respond to emails during my working hours."

I can't wait to start utilizing this...for research purposes only 👀.

7. Please, log off from work when it's time.

Unless you're scheduled to work late, take the time to log off from work and not think about it until the next day. Baum says, "Commit to fully logging off once the workday ends—no 'quick email replies' or sneaking in work over the weekend." I'm eyeing you Ms. "I just need to send a quick email" while you're on vacation or spending time with your significant other.

Baum says creating this separation works because "fully disconnecting allows your mind to reset and recharge" which ends up "making you more efficient, creative, and focused during actual work hours." According to her, you'll eventually "improve personal well-being" and "enhance long-term work performance."

As soon as my work day is over, I make a beeline for the shower so I can decompress. After that, I take my time with my skincare routine and keep my phone out of reach so I'm not tempted to look at anything work-related. I'm not always successful, but I've noticed a difference in my mood since making this shift.

8. Speak Up When You're Feeling Overwhelmed

And if you're 100% drained because you've been trying to tackle work tasks during and after hours, Frazier and Pepin want you to speak up. "If you're feeling overwhelmed with your workload, approach your manager with honesty and a focus on solutions," they suggest. Here's another prompt of theirs you can use:

• "I've been noticing that my workload has extended beyond regular hours, and maintaining balance is becoming challenging. Could we discuss prioritizing tasks or adjusting expectations to ensure I can deliver quality work without compromising my well-being?"