OOTD: Mary Gets a Makeover and Goes to the Park

When I first posted my 'Downton Abbey'-inspired Lady Mary dress, I styled it a bit a la Edwardian.  It felt darling dressing up all ladylike but, truth be told, it was a touch much for everyday wear.  So, when we ventured to a French-inspired cafe last week for a celebratory brunch, I opted for a more modern look.  After all, I did name the dress "Modern Mary".

I didn't have Brandon snap any photos at the restaurant but, after brunch, we stopped by our favorite local park for a small goodbye (it's 50 minutes away and keeps short hours so, we don't venture there often).

Mary let her hair down!
(Side note: this lake is called Swan Lake and is actually home to several. I If you look closely,  you can see a white one on the right.)

Unfortunately, the park isn't at its prettiest but, that's no one's fault.  The summer here as been absolutely brutal on each and every living thing.  With temperatures consistently over 100F and exceptionally little rain since March, the state is actually experiencing the worst drought of its recorded history!!  When we got to the park, the sky turned overcast and we heard rumbling in the distance so, we were hoping the rain was finally arriving... no such luck.  Just dark photos.  Boo.

Posing in the gazebo shown in the back of the first photo - much bigger up close, ha!
The water behind me generally reaches the wall I'll standing on.  The dry summer has caused the lake to recede substantially.

 Wait, we're supposed to be discussing the outfit!

Original Styling

In lieu of the Gibson Tuck, I styled my hair in loose curls (though, the heat and sticky humidity did have me missing that tuck!).  I changed the long pearl necklace for a simple silver pendant, passed on the gloves entirely and finished the outfit with a pair of grey suede pumps.

Necklace: Tiffany & Co
Dress: Self-drafted
Shoes:  Coach (sold out but available here)
Blurry photo: gifted by poor lighting ;-)

How would you style this?  How do you balance vintage inspiration and modern trends? x