Another hot day in the tri-state area – the forecast today was 96 degrees – and yes – it was HOT! I left the house 5 minutes earlier than normal, just so I could take my time walking to the train station - and I still worked up a sweat!

I’m a lover of dresses, and skirts, long and short - they are the main staples of my wardrobe. However, every now and then, I’ll put on some trousers. Today was that day. I wore this ensemble last summer and got a lot of compliments so I figured, why not?!?

About three weeks ago, I did the whole summer/winter wardrobe switch and while doing it, I came across a few pieces I’d completely forgotten about (you know what I mean?). If you’re anything like me, you get really excited about wearing a particular item/outfit again – so, I reiterate, today was that day.

Ms. Aikasha is wearing Volume One floral turtleneck, backless top, Victoria's Secret "Moda International" cream cotton trousers (I shortented them to this length)  Cole Haan large wicker handbag with green leather trim, beige Gucci wooden slides, Cynthia Rowley orange shades, and an assorment of coordinating acrylic bangles

Tip: underpinnings (bras, panties, thongs, slimmers - essentially anything worn under clothing) are as essential to our wardrobe as the actual outfit, designer or not. Wearing the correct underpinning can make, or completely "break" the look of your ensemble. When wearing close fitting pants, I recommend a thong, thus foregoing the infamous pantyline. If you find that thongs aren't comfortable, then go for the hemless sort of panties/boy shorts, that lay flat and smooth against your body and are almost undetectable under clothing.