fashion

From basic to interesting

Well, this outfit might not be outstanding but it definitely becomes more interesting and stands out more with its improvements. How do you transform an outfit from basic to pretty?

A week or so ago, I was getting ready for church but I was not sure what to wear. I knew I wanted to wear something different that would go with my gray boots because while it was not too cold, it was overcast and probably would rain. I decided to build from a plain black dress.

Basic black dress and boots

One of my very versatile accessory in my closet,  these boots have been worn many times since I purchased them 2-3 years ago at Rack Room shoes. They are warm, durable and perfect for church since they do not have a heel and church involves a lot of standing. The black dress I bought at Target after a blogger showcased it on her blog.

Add accessories and a layer

To bring interest to my outfit, I added a waterfall 3/4 sleeves cardigan, a scarf (Target dollar stop a few years ago), dainty earrings and Fair Trade bracelets (from Mercy house). The layer was practical to add some warmth as well as add color, and the scarf, earrings and bracelets complement each other.

 

Maxi dress and sandals

I used the same principle with the black maxi dress (those dress are such a blank piece of canvas that you can play with) and added sandals, a short sleeve jacket and a necklace. I found the dress on thred up and really want to find another similar one (it is Old Navy) because this one is beginning to show some wear. Still haven’t found a good replacement though! I could not make up my mind with what shoes and topper to wear so I will actually write a 5 ways to wear a colored maxi dress in the near future!

I ended up choosing my leopard t-strap sandals from Old Navy and this short sleeve jacket because it felt springier to me than my dark jean jacket.

This necklace was a purchase from Nordstrom a year ago and is very versatile. The length of it is adjustable. It is now sold out and I just realized that the pendant is backwards in the next picture (oops). And of course I am wearing another pair of my Nickel and Suede earrings. I really love them because they keep their shape and are so lightweight!

While most of these items are old or sold out, you probably have some similar things in your closet! You can do this to a jeans and tee outfit, any basic dress or really any outfit. I find myself reaching for scarves mostly in the winter but also if I am wearing a plain black dress or a white tee. I also use scarves for modesty if a shirt or dress has a deeper v neck than I like. With summer, I am more likely to add a necklace and bracelets to make my outfit more interesting and of course, statement earrings!

Now in the next few week, if you don’t already do this, try to bring your outfits up a notch by adding interest with accessories and light layers!

A  bientôt!

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