One of the best ways to prevent falling into a style rut is to play around in your closet. I think too often we just throw pieces on quickly & don’t take the time to really have fun with fashion. When I think about the women whose style I admire the most, it’s usually the ones who are combining pieces that I would never think to pair together, layering in a creative way or altering a classic style to make it their own.
This dress it the perfect example of a piece with great details that you can get creative with. Though I love the way it looks on the model, I wanted to put my own spin on it. So, to give it a date night feel, I unbuttoned the top button and tucked the extra fabric underneath to create the illusion of a v-neckline. Then, I untied the fabric straps at the shoulders & let them drape behind for a cool modern vibe.
A few more simple ways to customize pieces in your closet: cut off the bottom off a pair of jeans to create a cropped raw hem, remove a fabric tie belt from a dress and replace with your own leather style & swap out cheap plastic buttons for metal or tortoise to instantly elevate a coat or blazer. I’ve also used at-home dye to change the color of garments, removed the sleeves from a trench to create a vest, and even took a thrifted fit & flare dress to the tailor and had him transform it into a peplum top. If you’re willing to use your imagination, the possibilities are truly endless!!
What I’m wearing:
c/o Who What Wear Dress, Steve Madden Sandals,
Express Bag (similar), Shashi Headband (similar here or here),
Necklaces: Madewell & Forever 21, Nails: Essie Rocky Rose
When it comes to budget shopping, I have found that neutral pieces tend to look the most expensive. So if you’re searching for affordable styles with a high-end feel, I recommend sticking with earth tones, ivory & white or classic black. This outfit is made up of items that were all less than $35 each, but because the pieces are simple & polished, you’d never know I paid so little!
I’m so sad these mules sold out in a few sizes before I could share them here – they are such a chic neutral slide that instantly add a dose of sophistication. But, if your size isn’t available online, I recommend checking your local store (just an FYI: I found these to run about 1/2 a size small). Target has so many great new arrivals in transitional colors & silhouettes that are perfect for wearing both now & later – check out some of my top picks below!
What I’m wearing:
Similar Top (striped option here), Who What Wear Pants (similar),
Similar Bag, c/o Who What Wear Raffia Mules,
Shashi Headband (similar for less here or here),
Necklaces: Madewell & Forever 21, Nails: Essie Rocky Rose
Deals Under $25
It’s a Date
Draped Denim
Espadrille Season