Fall Winter Fashion Formula #4: Keep It Simple, Wear a Dress
January 30th, 2009
Need a simple style solution? Wear a dress. Dresses are, hands down, the fastest way to look effortlessly chic. Here’s how to dress around a dress:
1. Start simply with a dress. If you’re a dress kind of gal, we recommend building a dress wardrobe for both Fall/Winter and Spring/Summer, with heavier weight fabrics for cooler months and more breezy chic dresses for warmer times. Regardless of season, the key to a fabulous dress wardrobe is to pick silhouettes that work with your own personal architecture. This belted double breasted shirtdress, for instance, is great for women with a boyish figure; the dual lines of buttons create visual interest at the bustline, while the belt helps to create the illusion of a defined waist.
2. It is winter, after all, so you’ll want to cover up. Toss on a tailored blazer for looks and warmth. If you’re spending time outside in a cold climate, you’ll also want a warm, lightweight layering sweater between the dress and the jacket (and a silk base layer).
3. Accessorize with a few choice pieces: chocolate brown boots that complement the rich navy blue dress, a brown bag that works with the boots, and a gold necklace to give the outfit some warmth. Note how the ties on the bag echo the ties on the boots.
How would you dress around a dress? Share your style with us in the comments!
Entry Filed under: Ready Made Outfits,Women
7 Comments
1. Christa | January 30th, 2009 at 1:49 am
I love relatively inexpensive dresses (simple silhouette, colorful print fabric) from Urban Outfitters or H&M and dressing them up with dark tights, boots/booties, a clutch bag, and/or a belt.
2. Sal | January 30th, 2009 at 8:52 am
I’m yet to try a blazer layered over a dress, but have thrown mine over leggings, and also layered v-necks on top. I do wish I could find more long-sleeved dresses for winter wear. Any recommendations?
3. Christine | January 30th, 2009 at 4:18 pm
I LOVE dresses. My favorite way to dress in a dress is ALways with tights, a cardigan, pea coat, ankle boots, and with a scarf.
My fave types of dresses are normally mod but I’ve progressed to more baby doll like things.
Anyways, I love this outfit!!!
Christine
4. Angel | January 30th, 2009 at 8:34 pm
Tights will ALWAYS work. You can do either boots or pumps and you’re good. When going outside, grab that sexy trench or cropped leather jacket…It’ll be super duper fierce!
P.Y.T – by UrbnSocialite on Polyvore.com
5. Anonymous | February 2nd, 2009 at 2:42 pm
I love dresses anytime! I am having difficulty finding blazers that work with different type of winter dresses (for ex. sheath and wrap dresses – my two signature styles). So, I usually end up wearing a cardigan, tights, and boots/pumps.
I would appreciate your help on this. Thank you!
6. Anonymous | February 2nd, 2009 at 2:48 pm
I am not sure where to post this question on this website. I love the practical suggestions I find here.
What do you recommend for a work-suitable spring jacket? Spring is usually around 40 degrees Fahrenheit here.
Thank you in advance!
7. Trisha | February 3rd, 2009 at 12:52 am
Great tips, all!
Sal, my favorite long sleeve dresses are sweaterdresses (so chic and warm). Right now, however, stores are gearing up for Spring, so for better or for worse, it’s time to hit the sale rack for Winter dresses.
Blazers are all about the right fit – and as a result, they’re tough to shop for. For sheath and wrap dresses, I like the long, hip-length blazer for sophistication. Do make sure that the armholes are cut high; this adds to the long, lean look.
For a work-suitable Spring jacket in an area that’s pretty chilly, you may want to look for lightweight versions of Winter fabrics such as flannel or tweed. These fabrics will help you through early Spring, after which you can switch to warmer weather fabrics.