How to Style Cropped Vest & Minis

I can’t believe I’m saying this, but the two trends I told myself I was NOT going to try were a puffy cropped vest and mini platform booties… And here we are, trending, featuring and secretly loving. I pride myself in looking a little different than everyone else. It’s boring to look like everyone else. Not that I necessarily want to “stand out”, but I definitely don’t want to be basic.

And here I am. The most basic B in town. Sporting the ever so trendy, black cropped puffer vest with an exaggerated collar. I watched one of my favorite YouTubers feature one this fall, and I literally said to myself, “I would never wear that”. Just a few months later and I’ve totally sold out. Yup, I’ll admit it. I broke down and ordered it from Amazon just after Christmas. I love it.

It’s warmer than I expected. It’s like, less than half of a coat. No sleeves, no bottom half. But somehow it keeps you toasty. Of course I wouldn’t go outside without an overcoat. A plain white long sleeve cropped tee isn’t going to cut it, but for watching my son’s basketball game in a cool middle school gym, it’s perfect. Keep in mind when layering, contrasting hem lines are ideal. For example, my white tee is cropped shorter than the vest, or a longer tee that hits at the hips would work great too. Just don’t wear a top that hits at the same spot as the vest. That will create bulk at the waist, which is something none of us want.

Next up, the mini platform booties. Just when I thought UGGS were totally out of style, they came back with a vengeance. Specifically the mini style. I dragged my feet (figuratively) on getting a pair. At $150, I just didn’t know if I was going to wear them much. They’re kind of specific. Cute with wide leg jeans. Cute with leggings and long socks. Not cute, basically worn any other way.

So, I did the smart thing and ordered a pair of faux UGGS for $40 to give them a little test drive. And oh boy am I happy I did. They’re super soft and cozy and warm, but what they aren’t is practical. Because the sole is so thick (which is my favorite feature, because they make my size 11 feet look smaller), they don’t bend while you walk, so your heels slides out of the back. It’s a fashion vs. function thing. They look super cute, but they just aren’t practical. I’ll probably stick to my non-platform minis for going out and about.

I see this trend going as quickly as it came, so if you like it, hop on it now. And be smart and order fake ones from Amazon. My vest was $32 and the minis were $40. Not breaking the bank on super trendy items will help you keep your sanity. You’re welcome.