If you’ve been following along with my Songful Style posts, you know the drill! Each month, my fabulous blogging friends (Shelbee and Marsha) and I come together to create an outfit inspired by a song. Last month, I chose one of my favourite 80s classics, These Dreams by Heart. This month, Marsha picked Wildflowers by Tom Petty, and I couldn’t be more thrilled. This song’s laid-back, free-spirited vibe feels like the perfect way to embrace the start of autumn.
I’m so excited to share my Songful Style outfit this month for Wildflowers. The song’s gentle melody and thoughtful lyrics give off such a relaxed, natural feel, making it a true gem in Tom Petty’s catalogue. Released in 1994, Wildflowers is the title track from Petty’s second solo album. The album marked a turning point in his career, shifting to a more intimate, reflective sound. Petty, the legendary singer-songwriter often known as the voice of the American rock ‘n’ roll spirit, poured his heart into this record. He created a work that feels timeless and full of soul. The song itself, with lyrics like “You belong among the wildflowers, you belong somewhere you feel free,” speaks to finding peace and freedom in life’s simple moments.
The Music Video’s Laid-Back Vibe
The official music video for Wildflowers adds a whole new layer to the song. It’s a simple, beautiful portrayal of Petty enjoying time among the wildflowers with his dog. Set in what looks like his own garden, it shows him wandering through a sea of flowers, the relaxed smile on his face saying it all. It feels like the perfect visual to accompany a song that’s all about letting go and embracing the little things.
Styling the Free-Spirited Look
When I think of Tom Petty, I picture a true free spirit—someone who embodied that effortless, boho vibe throughout his career. So, for this challenge, I knew my outfit had to channel that same carefree energy. I chose a long, slightly floaty black dress, covered in colourful images of wildflowers, which I recently picked up from Vinted. I absolutely love how it captures that boho, free-spirited feel. Plus, the dress’s pattern perfectly ties in with the song’s theme.
To keep the look relaxed and grounded, I added my ‘new’ pair of short camel-coloured Ugg Boots, another great Vinted find. They’re perfect for the early autumn weather and add a touch of cosy charm. (Having said that, we went shopping afterwards and my feet were so freaking hot lol!) I also threw on my old-but-trusty denim jacket from Primark, because nothing says “effortlessly cool” like a denim jacket, right? For a bit of extra boho flair, I completed the look with a tassel bag that I inherited from my late mother-in-law—it always brings a sense of nostalgia and warmth (I have it in black too!).
Accessorising the Boho Vibe
I kept the accessories simple this time. I decided against wearing necklaces since the dress’s tie at the front would have got in the way. Instead, I went with a couple of chunky rings—one of which is a large silver flower that fits the wildflower theme perfectly, and the other one is a Tessa Metcalfe special—she’s a London-based jeweller who makes the most beautiful jewellery. I also wore silver earrings shaped like wings, which felt very fitting for the free-spirited vibe I was aiming for.
Exploring Alte for the Photos
I had dreams of taking the photos in a field of wildflowers, but being early autumn, that wasn’t in the cards. There wasn’t a single wildflower to be found! So, instead, we headed to the picturesque village of Alte and wandered around one of its famous ‘fontes.’ The atmosphere there was so peaceful, and we even got to see a family of ducks meandering around our feet. It might not have been a wildflower field, but it was still a lovely spot to capture the outfit’s essence.
Wrapping It Up
I absolutely loved styling this month’s Songful Style challenge. There’s something about the free-spirited, boho vibe that resonates with me more and more these days. And I’m having a blast finding pieces that fit this style on Vinted—especially along with my other favourite looks: whimsigoth and vintage!
What do you think of my Wildflowers-inspired outfit? Did I capture that Tom Petty vibe? Let me know in the comments! And don’t forget to check out how Shelbee and Marsha styled this song. Make sure to add your posts to the link-up below, too! I can’t wait to see everyone’s take on the song, and I’m already excited for next month’s Songful Style choice, which was chosen by Shelbee and is Pink by Aerosmith!
